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SYNT Synthomer Plc

240.50
-2.50 (-1.03%)
Last Updated: 10:03:44
Delayed by 15 minutes
Share Name Share Symbol Market Type Share ISIN Share Description
Synthomer Plc LSE:SYNT London Ordinary Share GB00BNTVWJ75 ORD 1P
  Price Change % Change Share Price Bid Price Offer Price High Price Low Price Open Price Shares Traded Last Trade
  -2.50 -1.03% 240.50 239.00 241.00 243.00 236.50 241.50 151,678 10:03:44
Industry Sector Turnover Profit EPS - Basic PE Ratio Market Cap
Chemicals & Chem Preps, Nec 2.02B -67M -0.4096 -5.83 390.93M

Synthomer PLC Interim Results for the 6 months ended 30 Jun 2017 (3368N)

08/08/2017 7:00am

UK Regulatory


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TIDMSYNT

RNS Number : 3368N

Synthomer PLC

08 August 2017

Synthomer plc

Interim Results for the six months ended 30 June 2017

Solid progress in H1 2017 - Underlying PBT up 17.4%; full year expectations unchanged

 
 H1 HIGHLIGHTS                        2017     2016         Increase / (decrease) 
 Underlying performance                                    Reported       Constant 
  (1)                                                                  Currency(2) 
                                   -------  -------       ---------  ------------- 
                                      GBPm     GBPm               %              % 
 Revenue                             770.3    446.2            72.6           64.8 
                                   -------  -------       --------- 
 
 Volumes (ktes)                      730.2    621.7            17.5 
                                   -------  -------       --------- 
 
             Europe and North         64.3     46.8            37.4           30.8 
             America (ENA) 
              Asia and ROW (ARW)      18.1     24.2          (25.2)         (28.5) 
              Unallocated            (5.9)    (6.1)             3.3            3.3 
                                   -------  -------       --------- 
 Operating Profit                     76.5     64.9            17.9           11.9 
                                   -------  -------       --------- 
 
 Profit before Tax                    71.6     61.0            17.4           10.8 
                                   -------  -------       --------- 
 
 EPS (p)                              16.8     13.8            21.7 
 DPS (p) - ordinary                    3.7      3.5             5.7 
 
 IFRS Profit before 
  Tax                                 53.4     57.4           (7.0) 
 IFRS EPS (p)                         12.5     14.0          (10.7) 
---------------------------------  -------  -------  ---  ---------  ------------- 
 

1 - Underlying performance excludes Special Items. Comments on Underlying performance and a detailed analysis of the Special Items are set out in note 3.

2 - Constant currency sales and profit: these reflect current year results for Heritage business translated at the prior year's average exchange rates, and include the impact of acquisitions.

H1 highlights:

   --     Underlying profit before tax up 17.4% to GBP71.6m (constant currency up 10.8%): 
   --    Two 'bolt-on' acquisitions completed in last 12 months successfully integrated 
   --    Europe & North America continue to grow in line with GDP 
   --    Asia & Rest of World in line with guidance with H1 Nitrile Latex margins stable vs Q4 2016 
   --    Positive FX impact 
   --     IFRS profit before tax GBP53.4m 
   --     R&D delivering sustainable growth: new products represent circa 20% total sales* (2016: 18%) 
   --     Underlying earnings per share up 21.7% at 16.8p per share 
   --     Interim dividend of 3.7p (2016: 3.5p); increase of 5.7% in line with dividend policy 
   --     Strong and flexible balance sheet maintained - leverage 1.3x EBITDA 

*Heritage business only. Metric to be rebased for Full Year 2017

Commenting on the results, Neil Johnson, Chairman, said:

"We have made solid progress during the first half of this year. The positive impact of the 'bolt-on' acquisitions, Europe and North America continuing to grow in line with GDP and positive currency translation more than offset the anticipated margin pressure in the Nitrile Latex market in Asia and Rest of the World, leading to a 17.4% increase in Underlying profit before tax.

Looking ahead, we continue to focus on driving sustainable growth, through capital investment projects, R&D and business efficiency programmes. We also continue to evaluate acquisition opportunities and will remain highly disciplined in our selection criteria. Accepting the H2 seasonality inherent in our markets, and in the absence of any currency benefit in the second half, the Board's expectations for the full year remain unchanged."

 
 IFRS Information                     H1 2017                          H1 2016 
                          -------------------------------  ------------------------------- 
                             Underlying   Special    IFRS     Underlying   Special    IFRS 
                            performance     Items            performance     Items 
                                   GBPm      GBPm    GBPm           GBPm      GBPm    GBPm 
 Revenue                          770.3         -   770.3          446.2         -   446.2 
                          -------------  --------  ------  -------------  --------  ------ 
 
     Europe and North 
      America (ENA)                64.3    (16.2)    48.1           46.8     (1.6)    45.2 
     Asia and ROW (ARW)            18.1     (1.9)    16.2           24.2     (2.1)    22.1 
     Unallocated                  (5.9)     (0.1)   (6.0)          (6.1)         -   (6.1) 
                          -------------  --------  ------  -------------  --------  ------ 
 Operating profit 
  (including share 
  of JV's)                         76.5    (18.2)    58.3           64.9     (3.7)    61.2 
 Finance costs                    (4.9)         -   (4.9)          (3.9)       0.1   (3.8) 
                          -------------  --------  ------  -------------  --------  ------ 
 Profit/(loss) 
  before taxation                  71.6    (18.2)    53.4           61.0     (3.6)    57.4 
                          -------------  --------  ------  -------------  --------  ------ 
 EPS (p)                           16.8     (4.3)    12.5           13.8       0.2    14.0 
 DPS (p)                                              3.7                              3.5 
 
 

Underlying performance

As more fully described in note 3, the Group's management uses Underlying performance to plan for, control and assess the performance of the Group. Underlying performance differs from the statutory IFRS performance as it excludes the effect of Special Items, which are also detailed in note 3. The Board's view is that Underlying performance provides additional clarity for the Group's investors and so it is the primary focus of the Group's narrative reporting. Where appropriate, IFRS performance inclusive of Special Items is also described. References to 'unit margin' and 'margin' are used in the commentary on Underlying performance. Unit margin (or margin) is calculated on selling price less variable raw material and logistics costs.

The Heritage business is the Synthomer Group at 1 January 2016 as adjusted for disposals and the Existing business is the Synthomer Group at 1 January 2017.

The table below bridges the H1 2016 operating profit to that for the current period, showing the change in the Existing business, the impact of acquisitions, the impact of the weakness of sterling on translation and the effect of the Special Items.

 
                                                  Asia 
                                                     & 
                               Europe             Rest             Unallocated 
                              & North               of               corporate 
                              America            World                expenses           Total 
                                 GBPm             GBPm                    GBPm            GBPm 
                            ---------  ------  -------  --------  ------------  -----  -------  ------- 
 2016 - IFRS                     45.2             22.1                   (6.1)            61.2 
 Add back: 2016 - 
  Special Items                   1.6              2.1                       -             3.7 
                            ---------          -------            ------------         ------- 
 2016 - Underlying 
  performance                    46.8             24.2                   (6.1)            64.9 
 2017 - Underlying 
  Existing business 
  change at 2016 exchange 
  rates                          12.6            (6.0)                     0.2             6.8 
 2017 - Impact of 
  acquisition of Oxo 
  Belgium                         1.8                -                       -             1.8 
 2017 - Impact of 
  disposal of South 
  Africa                            -            (0.9)                       -           (0.9) 
                            ---------          -------            ------------         ------- 
 2017 - Underlying 
  business change 
  at 2016 exchange 
  rates                          14.4   30.8%    (6.9)   (28.5)%           0.2   3.3%      7.7    11.9% 
 2017 - Impact of 
  2017 exchange rates             3.1              0.8                       -             3.9 
                            ---------          -------            ------------         ------- 
 2017 - Underlying 
  performance                    64.3   37.4%     18.1   (25.2)%         (5.9)   3.3%     76.5    17.9% 
 Deduct: 2017 - Special 
  Items                        (16.2)            (1.9)                   (0.1)          (18.2) 
                            ---------          -------            ------------         ------- 
 2017 - IFRS                     48.1    6.4%     16.2   (26.7)%         (6.0)   1.6%     58.3   (4.7)% 
                            ---------  ------  -------  --------  ------------  -----  -------  ------- 
 

Cautionary statement

The purpose of this report is to provide information to the members of the Company. It contains certain forward-looking statements with respect to the operations, performance and financial condition of the Group. By their nature, these statements involve uncertainty since future events and circumstances can cause results and developments to differ materially from those anticipated. The forward-looking statements reflect knowledge and information available at the date of preparation of this report and the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements. Nothing in this report should be construed as a profit forecast.

ENQUIRIES:

 
 Calum MacLean, Chief Executive     Tel: 01279 436211 
  Officer 
 Stephen Bennett, Chief Financial   Tel: 01279 436211 
  Officer 
 Charles Armitstead / Rosie Oddy,   Tel: 020 3603 5220 
  Teneo Blue Rubicon 
 

The Company will host a meeting for analysts and investors at 09.00 today at Canaccord Genuity (88 Wood Street, London EC2V 7QR). The presentation will be webcast on the Company's website www.synthomer.com.

Chief Executive Officer's Review

Solid progress in H1 2017

A continued focus on organic growth combined with the benefits of two recent 'bolt-on' acquisitions enabled us to deliver a solid performance in H1 2017. These factors together with a favourable currency tailwind increased Group Underlying profit before tax by 17.4% to GBP71.6m.

The Europe and North America ('ENA') segment increased Underlying operating profit by 37.4% to GBP64.3m largely reflecting our successful integration of the dispersions PAC acquisition (from Hexion) and polymer additives Oxo Belgium acquisition (from Perstorp), the two transactions that we completed in the last 12 months. We remain on track to deliver the forecasted synergies by the end of 2018. In addition, the Heritage business continued to perform as expected, growing in-line with GDP.

Our Asia and Rest of World ('ARW') segment traded in line with expectations and consistent with the guidance given at the full year results. H1 Underlying operating profit was GBP18.1m (H1 2016: GBP24.2m), reflecting the disposal of our South Africa business in H2 2016, the weaker trading environment in the Middle East, and lower Nitrile Latex margins relative to a strong comparative period although they remain in line with Q4 2016.

We continue to see the benefits of our investment in R&D, with sales of new products increasing to circa 20% of sales (2016: 18%) in our Heritage business. We have continued to make good progress with our Business Development, Manufacturing Excellence and Procurement initiatives. Our capital investment projects are on track and which will result in the significant expansion of our facilities in Pasir Gudang, Worms and Roebuck with new capacity coming online in 2018.

H1 Results - Underlying

Group revenue increased 72.6% to GBP770.3m (2016: GBP446.2m) principally reflecting higher volumes from the acquisitions, the impact of higher raw materials prices and the favourable translation effect of a stronger Euro and US dollar relative to the comparative period.

H1 2017 Underlying profit before tax increased to GBP71.6m (2016: GBP61.0m), a rise of 17.4%, or 10.8% at constant currency. The Underlying results benefitted from the movement in sterling relative to the Euro (H1 2017 GBP1:EUR1.16, H1 2016 GBP1:EUR1.27) and relative to Malaysian Ringgit (H1 2017 GBP1:MYR 5.55, H1 2016 GBP1:MYR 5.74), resulting in an overall favourable FX translation impact of GBP3.9m.

Underlying earnings per share was up 21.7% at 16.8 pence per share (2016: 13.8 pence per share).

H1 Results - IFRS

IFRS profit before tax was GBP53.4m in H1 2017 relative to GBP57.4m in H1 2016. The IFRS profit before tax reflects the Underlying profit before tax as adjusted for the Special Items set out in note 3.

Special Items net charges have increased from GBP3.7m in H1 2016 to GBP18.2m in H1 2017, with the increase principally attributable to a one-off gain of GBP13.1m related to the FX contract put in place to hedge the purchase price of the PAC acquisition recorded in H1 2016 and which has not repeated in H1 2017.

Segmental review

Europe and North America (ENA)

 
                                     H1      H1     Increase / (decrease) 
                                   2017    2016     Reported     Constant 
                                                                 Currency 
                                 ------  ------  -----------  ----------- 
                                                           %            % 
 Volumes (ktes)                   550.7   427.7         28.8 
 
 Revenue (GBPm)                   593.2   305.5         94.2         85.3 
 
 EBITDA                            75.2    53.6         40.3         33.6 
 Operating profit - Underlying 
  performance (GBPm)               64.3    46.8         37.4         30.8 
 Operating profit - IFRS 
  (GBPm)                           48.1    45.2          6.4 
-------------------------------  ------  ------  -----------  ----------- 
 

Underlying operating profit in the ENA segment was GBP17.5m higher at GBP64.3m (2016: GBP46.8m), an increase of 37.4% or 30.8% at constant currency.

This improved performance largely reflects the benefits of the recent acquisitions, both of which are now fully integrated into our results for the first time. The dispersions PAC business was acquired from Hexion on 30 June 2016 and the polymer additives Oxo Belgium business was acquired from Perstorp on 5 March 2017.

Total volumes were up 28.8%. We continued to see volume growth in Construction & Coatings, Textiles and Adhesives, and Foam with marginally reduced volumes in Carpets and Paper.

Group unit margins have strengthened relative to prior year notwithstanding the significant raw materials price volatility in the period. Overall unit margins remained robust, benefitting from new product introductions, business development, manufacturing excellence and procurement initiatives.

Asia and Rest of World (ARW)

 
                                     H1      H1    Increase / (decrease) 
                                   2017    2016     Reported     Constant 
                                                                 Currency 
                                 ------  ------  -----------  ----------- 
                                                           %            % 
 Volumes (ktes)                   179.5   194.0        (7.5) 
 
 Revenue (GBPm)                   177.1   140.7         25.9         19.6 
 
 EBITDA                            24.6    29.4       (16.3)       (19.3) 
 Operating profit - Underlying 
  performance (GBPm)               18.1    24.2       (25.2)       (28.5) 
 Operating profit - IFRS 
  (GBPm)                           16.2    22.1       (26.7) 
-------------------------------  ------  ------  -----------  ----------- 
 

The trading performance of the ARW segment is consistent with the guidance given at the time of the 2016 full year results. Underlying operating profit was GBP18.1m relative to GBP24.2m in H1 2016, in part reflecting the sale of our South African business in August 2016 which contributed GBP0.9m of profit in H1 2016, the weaker trading environment in the Middle East (GBP0.6m), the ongoing integration of Chonburi (GBP0.9m) and the more challenging market economics in our Nitrile Latex business, relative to a strong comparative.

ARW volumes were stable relative to the prior year and the reduction in volumes of 14.5kt is attributable to the sale of our South African business.

Positively, the volumes in our Nitrile Latex business remained robust during a period of unprecedented raw material price volatility in Asia, where Butadiene prices rose and fell three fold in Q1 and Q2 respectively, and with the incremental production capacity introduced to the market in H2 2016.

Unit margin performance of our Nitrile Latex business is in line with expectations and, although down year on year against a stronger market driven comparative, is consistent with unit margins delivered by the business in Q4 2016.

Unallocated central costs

Unallocated central costs of GBP5.9m (2016: GBP6.1m) remain well controlled and are broadly in line with the prior year.

Special Items

 
                                                    H1 
                                                  2017   H1 2016 
                                                  GBPm      GBPm 
                                               -------  -------- 
 Restructuring and site closure                  (3.3)     (1.2) 
 Sale of land                                      1.4         - 
 Acquisition costs                               (1.2)     (3.5) 
 Gain on foreign exchange contracts relating 
  to PAC acquisition                                 -      13.1 
 Amortisation of acquired intangibles           (15.1)    (12.1) 
                                               -------  -------- 
 Impact on operating profit                     (18.2)     (3.7) 
                                               -------  -------- 
 Tax on Special Items                              3.5       4.0 
                                               -------  -------- 
 

The following items of income and expense have been reported as Special Items, which are excluded to show Underlying performance:

-- Restructuring costs relate to the post acquisition integration of the PAC and Oxo Belgium businesses. The 2016 spend related to the PAC acquisition.

-- Profit on sale of land in 2017 related to a disposal of land in Hapton, UK.

-- Acquisition costs relate to costs incurred in relation to Oxo Belgium (H1 2016: PAC) and other acquisitions which have not occurred.

-- In 2016 we recognised a gain of GBP13.1m on the foreign exchange contracts taken out as a hedge against the US dollar PAC purchase consideration.

-- Amortisation of intangibles increased during the period, partly due to foreign currency movements and partly due to the intangibles acquired as part of the PAC and Oxo Belgium acquisitions.

Of the tax credit of GBP3.5m (2016: GBP4.0m), GBP3.2m (2016:GBP3.7m) related to the notional tax credit on the intangibles amortisation expense.

Taxation

The Group's Underlying tax rate at 20% (H1 2016: 22%, Full Year 2016: 20%) is lower due to changes in the geographical composition of profits.

Cash performance and balance sheet items

The Group generated operating cash flow of GBP13.0m (2016: GBP38.4m). 2017 was lower than 2016 because of the investment in working capital. This was due to the significant rise in key raw material prices during the period which resulted in higher inventory and trade receivable balances partly offset by higher trade payables balances.

Cash tax increased to GBP11.6m (2016:GBP6.7m) due to the acquisitions and the timing of settlement of tax liabilities.

The increase in capital expenditure to drive organic growth reflects the cash spend on the previously announced Nitrile Latex capacity increase in Pasir Gudang, Malaysia (GBP6m) and Dispersions capacity at Worms, Germany (GBP5m). Consistent with previous guidance, capital expenditure is expected to continue to rise to approximately GBP50-60m for the full year (2016: GBP45.6m) as work on these projects together with our ongoing sustenance and compliance capex continue.

On 5 March 2017, the Group paid GBP66.1m for the purchase of Oxo Belgium. The acquisition was funded through a drawdown under the Revolving Credit Facility. The allocation of the purchase price between goodwill, intangibles, tangible fixed assets and other net assets of GBP23.8m, GBP41.4m, GBP8.9m and GBP7.0m respectively, offset by a deferred tax liability of GBP15.0m remains provisional.

The Group paid the 2016 final ordinary dividend of 7.8 pence per share to shareholders on 6 July, resulting in a cash outflow of GBP26.5m after the period end.

After other operating, investing and financing flows, this led to an increase in cash, cash equivalents and bank overdrafts of GBP14.2m (2016: increase GBP40.8m).

The final tranche of Malaysian land for sale of approximately 400 acres is under offer on similar terms to the last tranche with completion expected end 2018/Q1 2019. The Group's 70% share of the proceeds at current foreign currency rates is expected to be approximately GBP10m.

The Group Pension liability has decreased to GBP184.5m from GBP186.7m at 31 December 2016 mainly reflecting a reduction in the UK pension liability of GBP9m and an increase in the overseas liability of GBP7m. The reduction in the UK pension liability reflects the reduction in the UK discount rate, more than offset by the growth in assets and contributions made under the deficit recovery programme. The rise in the overseas liability mainly reflects the incremental liability associated with the Oxo Belgium acquisition GBP3m and the fx translation impact of GBP3m.

Dividend and capital management

The Board has declared an interim dividend of 3.7 pence per share, an increase of 0.2 pence or 5.7%. This remains in line with our Group dividend and capital management policy.

Outlook

Looking ahead, we continue to focus on driving sustainable growth, through capital investment projects, R&D and business efficiency programmes. We also continue to evaluate acquisition opportunities and will remain highly disciplined in our selection criteria. Accepting the H2 seasonality inherent in our markets, and in the absence of any currency benefit in the second half, the Board's expectations for the full year remain unchanged.

Calum MacLean

Chief Executive Officer

7 August 2017

CONsolidated income statement for the SIX MONTHSED 30 JUNE 2017

 
 
                                      Six months ended 30                          Six months ended 
                                           June 2017                                 30 June 2016 
                            -------------------------------------      ------------------------------------- 
                               Underlying     Special        IFRS         Underlying     Special        IFRS 
                              performance       Items                    performance       Items 
                                     GBPm        GBPm        GBPm               GBPm        GBPm        GBPm 
                                Unaudited   Unaudited   Unaudited          Unaudited   Unaudited   Unaudited 
 
 
 Group revenue                      770.3           -       770.3              446.2           -       446.2 
                            =============  ==========  ==========  =================  ==========  ========== 
 
 Company and subsidiaries 
  before Special 
  Items                              75.8           -        75.8               63.6           -        63.6 
 Restructuring and 
  site closure                          -       (3.3)       (3.3)                  -       (1.2)       (1.2) 
 Gain on foreign 
  exchange contracts 
  relating to acquisition               -           -           -                  -        13.1        13.1 
 Acquisition costs                      -       (1.2)       (1.2)                  -       (3.5)       (3.5) 
 Sale of land                           -         1.4         1.4                  -           -           - 
 Amortisation of 
  acquired intangibles                  -      (15.1)      (15.1)                  -      (12.1)      (12.1) 
                            -------------  ----------  ----------  -----------------  ----------  ---------- 
 Company and subsidiaries            75.8      (18.2)        57.6               63.6       (3.7)        59.9 
 Share of joint 
  ventures                            0.7           -         0.7                1.3           -         1.3 
                            -------------  ----------  ----------  -----------------  ----------  ---------- 
 
 Operating profit 
  / (loss)                           76.5      (18.2)        58.3               64.9       (3.7)        61.2 
                            =============  ==========  ==========  =================  ==========  ========== 
 
 Interest payable                   (3.1)           -       (3.1)              (1.6)           -       (1.6) 
 Interest receivable                  0.6           -         0.6                0.2           -         0.2 
                            -------------  ----------  ----------  -----------------  ----------  ---------- 
                                    (2.5)           -       (2.5)              (1.4)           -       (1.4) 
 IAS 19 interest 
  charge                            (2.4)           -       (2.4)              (2.5)           -       (2.5) 
 Fair value adjustment                  -           -           -                  -         0.1         0.1 
                            -------------  ----------  ----------  -----------------  ----------  ---------- 
 Finance costs                      (4.9)           -       (4.9)              (3.9)         0.1       (3.8) 
 
 Profit / (loss) 
  before taxation                    71.6      (18.2)        53.4               61.0       (3.6)        57.4 
 Taxation                          (14.3)         3.5      (10.8)             (13.4)         4.0       (9.4) 
                            -------------  ----------  ----------  -----------------  ----------  ---------- 
 Profit / (loss) 
  for the period                     57.3      (14.7)        42.6               47.6         0.4        48.0 
                            =============  ==========  ==========  =================  ==========  ========== 
 
 Profit / (loss) 
  attributable to 
  non-controlling 
  interests                           0.3           -         0.3                0.6       (0.1)         0.5 
 Profit / (loss) 
  attributable to 
  equity holders 
  of the Company                     57.0      (14.7)        42.3               47.0         0.5        47.5 
                            -------------  ----------  ----------  -----------------  ----------  ---------- 
                                     57.3      (14.7)        42.6               47.6         0.4        48.0 
                            =============  ==========  ==========  =================  ==========  ========== 
 
 Earnings per share 
 
 Basic                              16.8p      (4.3)p       12.5p              13.8p        0.2p       14.0p 
 Diluted                            16.7p      (4.3)p       12.4p              13.7p        0.2p       13.9p 
 
 
 

Special Items

The Special Items are shown in more detail in note 3.

 
                                      Year ended 31 December 
                                               2016 
                                    -------------------------  -------- 
                                         Underlying   Special      IFRS 
                                        performance     Items 
                                               GBPm      GBPm      GBPm 
                                            Audited   Audited   Audited 
 
 
 Group revenue                              1,045.7         -   1,045.7 
                                    ===============  ========  ======== 
 
 Company and subsidiaries 
  before Special Items                        128.2         -     128.2 
 Restructuring and site 
  closure                                         -     (5.2)     (5.2) 
 Sale of business                                 -       4.7       4.7 
 Gain on foreign exchange 
  contracts relating to 
  acquisition                                     -      13.1      13.1 
 Acquisition Costs                                -     (4.3)     (4.3) 
 Sale of land                                     -      33.2      33.2 
 Amortisation of acquired 
  intangibles                                     -    (27.0)    (27.0) 
 Company and subsidiaries                     128.2      14.5     142.7 
 Share of joint ventures                        2.0         -       2.0 
                                    ---------------  --------  -------- 
 
 Operating profit                             130.2      14.5     144.7 
                                    ===============  ========  ======== 
 
 Interest payable                             (4.2)         -     (4.2) 
 Interest receivable                            0.7         -       0.7 
                                    ---------------  --------  -------- 
                                              (3.5)         -     (3.5) 
 IAS 19 interest charge                       (4.5)         -     (4.5) 
 Finance costs                                (8.0)         -     (8.0) 
 
 Profit before taxation                       122.2      14.5     136.7 
 Taxation                                    (24.5)       9.1    (15.4) 
                                    ---------------  --------  -------- 
 Profit for the year                           97.7      23.6     121.3 
                                    ===============  ========  ======== 
 
 Profit attributable to 
  non-controlling interests                     1.5       9.4      10.9 
 Profit attributable to 
  equity holders of the 
  Company                                      96.2      14.2     110.4 
                                    ---------------  --------  -------- 
                                               97.7      23.6     121.3 
                                    ===============  ========  ======== 
 
 Earnings per share 
 
 Basic                                        28.3p      4.2p     32.5p 
 Diluted                                      28.1p      4.2p     32.3p 
 
 
 

Special Items

The Special Items are shown in more detail in note 3.

Consolidated STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME for the SIX MONTHSED 30 June 2017

 
                                         Six months ended 30                        Six months ended 
                                              June 2017                                30 June 2016 
                              ----------------------------------------  ---------------------------------------- 
                                  Equity   Non-controlling       Total      Equity   Non-controlling       Total 
                                 holders         interests                 holders         interests 
                                  of the                                    of the 
                                 Company                                   Company 
                               Unaudited         Unaudited   Unaudited   Unaudited         Unaudited   Unaudited 
                                    GBPm              GBPm        GBPm        GBPm              GBPm        GBPm 
 
 Profit for the 
  period                            42.3               0.3        42.6        47.5               0.5        48.0 
                              ----------  ----------------  ----------  ----------  ----------------  ---------- 
 
 Actuarial gains 
  / (losses) on 
  pension scheme                     1.9                 -         1.9      (45.0)                 -      (45.0) 
 Tax relating 
  to components 
  of other comprehensive 
  income                             0.3                 -         0.3         3.2                 -         3.2 
                              ----------  ----------------  ----------  ----------  ----------------  ---------- 
 Total items that 
  will not be reclassified 
  to profit or 
  loss                               2.2                 -         2.2      (41.8)                 -      (41.8) 
                              ----------  ----------------  ----------  ----------  ----------------  ---------- 
 
 Exchange differences 
  on translation 
  of foreign operations            (6.2)             (0.2)       (6.4)        43.5               1.6        45.1 
 Gains / (losses) 
  on a hedge of 
  a net investment 
  taken to equity                    5.0                 -         5.0       (2.9)                 -       (2.9) 
 
 Total items that 
  may be reclassified 
  subsequently 
  to profit or 
  loss                             (1.2)             (0.2)       (1.4)        40.6               1.6        42.2 
                              ----------  ----------------  ----------  ----------  ----------------  ---------- 
 
 Other comprehensive 
  income / (expense) 
  for the period                     1.0             (0.2)         0.8       (1.2)               1.6         0.4 
                              ----------  ----------------  ----------  ----------  ----------------  ---------- 
 Total comprehensive 
  income for the 
  period                            43.3               0.1        43.4        46.3               2.1        48.4 
                              ==========  ================  ==========  ==========  ================  ========== 
 
 
                                      Year ended 31 December 
                                               2016 
                              ------------------------------------- 
                                 Equity   Non-controlling     Total 
                                holders         interests 
                                 of the 
                                Company 
                                Audited           Audited   Audited 
                                   GBPm              GBPm      GBPm 
 
 Profit for the 
  year                            110.4              10.9     121.3 
                              ---------  ----------------  -------- 
 
 Actuarial losses                (49.1)                 -    (49.1) 
 Tax relating to 
  components of 
  other comprehensive 
  income                            0.9                 -       0.9 
                              ---------  ----------------  -------- 
 Total items that 
  will not be reclassified 
  to profit or loss              (48.2)                 -    (48.2) 
                              ---------  ----------------  -------- 
 
 Exchange differences 
  on translation 
  of foreign operations            47.0               1.2      48.2 
 Exchange differences 
  recycled on sale 
  of business                       3.3                 -       3.3 
 Losses on a hedge 
  of a net investment 
  taken to equity                 (6.4)                 -     (6.4) 
 
 Total items that 
  may be reclassified 
  subsequently to 
  profit or loss                   43.9               1.2      45.1 
                              ---------  ----------------  -------- 
 
 Other comprehensive 
  (expense) / income 
  for the year                    (4.3)               1.2     (3.1) 
                              ---------  ----------------  -------- 
 Total comprehensive 
  income for the 
  year                            106.1              12.1     118.2 
                              =========  ================  ======== 
 

Consolidated STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

 
                      Share      Share       Capital          Hedging    Retained    Total   Non-controlling     Total 
                    capital    premium    redemption              and    earnings                  interests    equity 
                                             reserve      translation 
                                                              reserve 
                  ---------  ---------  ------------  ---------------  ----------  -------  ----------------  -------- 
                       GBPm       GBPm          GBPm             GBPm        GBPm     GBPm              GBPm      GBPm 
 
 At 1 January 
  2017                 34.0      230.5           0.9            (4.4)        65.2    326.2              18.0     344.2 
                  ---------  ---------  ------------  ---------------  ----------  -------  ----------------  -------- 
 Profit for 
  the period              -          -             -                -        42.3     42.3               0.3      42.6 
 Other 
  comprehensive 
  (expense) 
  / income for 
  the period              -          -             -            (1.2)         2.2      1.0             (0.2)       0.8 
                  ---------  ---------  ------------  ---------------  ----------  -------  ----------------  -------- 
 Total 
  comprehensive 
  (expense) 
  / income for 
  the period              -          -             -            (1.2)        44.5     43.3               0.1      43.4 
 Share based 
  payments                -          -             -                -       (2.3)    (2.3)                 -     (2.3) 
 Dividends 
  payable                 -          -             -                -      (26.5)   (26.5)                 -    (26.5) 
 At 30 June 
  2017 
  (Unaudited)          34.0      230.5           0.9            (5.6)        80.9    340.7              18.1     358.8 
                  =========  =========  ============  ===============  ==========  =======  ================  ======== 
 
 
                        Share      Share       Capital        Hedging    Retained    Total   Non-controlling     Total 
                      capital    premium    redemption            and    earnings                  interests    equity 
                                               reserve    translation 
                                                              reserve 
                    ---------  ---------  ------------  -------------  ----------  -------  ----------------  -------- 
                         GBPm       GBPm          GBPm           GBPm        GBPm     GBPm              GBPm      GBPm 
 
 At 1 January 
  2016                   34.0      230.5           0.9         (48.3)        32.3    249.4               9.1     258.5 
                    ---------  ---------  ------------  -------------  ----------  -------  ----------------  -------- 
 Profit for 
  the period                -          -             -              -        47.5     47.5               0.5      48.0 
 Other 
  comprehensive 
  income / 
  (expense) 
  for the period            -          -             -           40.6      (41.8)    (1.2)               1.6       0.4 
                    ---------  ---------  ------------  -------------  ----------  -------  ----------------  -------- 
 Total 
  comprehensive 
  income for 
  the period                -          -             -           40.6         5.7     46.3               2.1      48.4 
 Share based 
  payments                  -          -             -              -       (0.2)    (0.2)                 -     (0.2) 
 Dividends 
  payable                   -          -             -              -      (18.3)   (18.3)                 -    (18.3) 
 At 30 June 
  2016 (Unaudited)       34.0      230.5           0.9          (7.7)        19.5    277.2              11.2     288.4 
                    =========  =========  ============  =============  ==========  =======  ================  ======== 
 
 
                        Share      Share       Capital        Hedging    Retained    Total   Non-controlling     Total 
                      capital    premium    redemption            and    earnings                  interests    equity 
                                               reserve    translation 
                                                              reserve 
                    ---------  ---------  ------------  -------------  ----------  -------  ----------------  -------- 
                         GBPm       GBPm          GBPm           GBPm        GBPm     GBPm              GBPm      GBPm 
 
 At 1 January 
  2016                   34.0      230.5           0.9         (48.3)        32.3    249.4               9.1     258.5 
                    ---------  ---------  ------------  -------------  ----------  -------  ----------------  -------- 
 Profit for 
  the period                -          -             -              -       110.4    110.4              10.9     121.3 
 Other 
  comprehensive 
  income / 
  (expense) 
  for the period            -          -             -           43.9      (48.2)    (4.3)               1.2     (3.1) 
                    ---------  ---------  ------------  -------------  ----------  -------  ----------------  -------- 
 Total 
  comprehensive 
  income for 
  the period                -          -             -           43.9        62.2    106.1              12.1     118.2 
 Share based 
  payments                  -          -             -              -         1.0      1.0                 -       1.0 
 Dividends 
  payable                   -          -             -              -      (30.3)   (30.3)             (3.2)    (33.5) 
 At 31 December 
  2016 (Audited)         34.0      230.5           0.9          (4.4)        65.2    326.2              18.0     344.2 
                    =========  =========  ============  =============  ==========  =======  ================  ======== 
 

Consolidated balance sheet as at 30 June 2017

 
                                      30 June     30 June    31 December 
                                        2017        2016         2016 
                                    ----------  ----------  ------------ 
                                     Unaudited   Unaudited       Audited 
                                          GBPm        GBPm          GBPm 
 Non-current assets 
 Goodwill                                328.0       321.7         301.4 
 Acquired intangible assets               81.7        45.0          54.2 
 Other intangible assets                   0.2         0.6           0.2 
 Property, plant and equipment           304.1       260.6         293.3 
 Deferred tax assets                      18.4        14.2          19.4 
 Investment in joint ventures              8.5         8.0           9.0 
                                    ----------  ----------  ------------ 
 Total non-current assets                740.9       650.1         677.5 
                                    ----------  ----------  ------------ 
 
 Current assets 
 Inventories                             139.6        94.8         104.3 
 Trade and other receivables             264.6       206.9         195.7 
 Cash and cash equivalents               147.9        93.1         117.4 
 Derivatives at fair value                   -        19.1             - 
                                    ----------  ----------  ------------ 
 Total current assets                    552.1       413.9         417.4 
                                    ----------  ----------  ------------ 
 
 Asset classified as held 
  for sale                                 0.3         6.5           0.7 
                                    ----------  ----------  ------------ 
 
 Current liabilities 
 Borrowings                             (80.7)      (65.2)        (65.4) 
 Trade and other payables              (254.5)     (189.8)       (213.5) 
 Current tax liability                  (42.0)      (37.9)        (39.0) 
 Dividends payable                      (26.5)      (18.3)             - 
 Provisions for other liabilities 
  and charges                            (2.9)       (3.0)         (3.0) 
 Total current liabilities             (406.6)     (314.2)       (320.9) 
                                    ----------  ----------  ------------ 
 
 Non-current liabilities 
 Borrowings                            (291.5)     (247.1)       (202.3) 
 Trade and other payables                (1.3)           -         (2.7) 
 Deferred tax liability                 (44.0)      (23.4)        (33.1) 
 Post retirement benefit 
  obligations                          (184.5)     (190.1)       (186.7) 
 Provisions for other liabilities 
  and charges                            (6.6)       (7.3)         (5.7) 
                                    ----------  ----------  ------------ 
 Total non-current liabilities         (527.9)     (467.9)       (430.5) 
                                    ----------  ----------  ------------ 
 
 Net assets                              358.8       288.4         344.2 
                                    ==========  ==========  ============ 
 
 Equity 
 Called up share capital                  34.0        34.0          34.0 
 Share premium                           230.5       230.5         230.5 
 Capital redemption reserve                0.9         0.9           0.9 
 Hedging and translation 
  reserve                                (5.6)       (7.7)         (4.4) 
 Retained earnings                        80.9        19.5          65.2 
                                    ----------  ----------  ------------ 
 Equity attributable to 
  equity holders of the 
  parent                                 340.7       277.2         326.2 
 Non-controlling interests                18.1        11.2          18.0 
                                    ----------  ----------  ------------ 
 Total equity                            358.8       288.4         344.2 
                                    ==========  ==========  ============ 
 

The interim financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors and authorised for issue on 7 August 2017.

 
 Analysis of net borrowingS 
 Cash and cash equivalents       147.9      93.1     117.4 
 Current borrowings             (80.7)    (65.2)    (65.4) 
 Non-current borrowings        (291.5)   (247.1)   (202.3) 
                              --------  --------  -------- 
 Net borrowings                (224.3)   (219.2)   (150.3) 
 Special item: deduct fair           -       4.2         - 
  value adjustment 
 Net borrowings (Underlying 
  performance)                 (224.3)   (215.0)   (150.3) 
                              ========  ========  ======== 
 

Consolidated cash flow STATEMENT for the SIX MONTHSED 30 JUNE 2017

 
                                   Six months              Six months             Year ended 
                                      ended                  ended 30             31 December 
                                   30 June 2017             June 2016                 2016 
                             ----------------------  ----------------------  -------------------- 
                              Unaudited   Unaudited   Unaudited   Unaudited   Audited   Audited 
                                   GBPm        GBPm        GBPm        GBPm      GBPm      GBPm 
 Operating 
 Cash generated 
  from operations                              27.1                    46.5               157.0 
     Interest received              0.6                     0.2                   0.7 
     Interest paid                (3.1)                   (1.6)                 (4.0) 
                             ----------              ----------              -------- 
 Net interest paid                            (2.5)                   (1.4)               (3.3) 
     UK corporation                   -                       -                     - 
      tax paid 
     Overseas corporate 
      tax paid                   (11.6)                   (6.7)                (17.1) 
                             ----------              ----------              -------- 
 Total tax paid                              (11.6)                   (6.7)              (17.1) 
                                         ----------              ----------            -------- 
 Net cash inflow 
  from operating 
  activities                                   13.0                    38.4               136.6 
                                         ----------              ----------            -------- 
 
 Investing 
 Dividends received 
  from joint ventures                           1.0                     2.0                 2.1 
     Purchase of property, 
      plant and equipment        (17.2)                   (8.9)                (45.6) 
     Sale of property, 
      plant and equipment           2.2                     0.1                  34.4 
 Net capital expenditure                     (15.0)                   (8.8)              (11.2) 
 Purchase of business                        (64.1)                 (165.5)             (165.8) 
 Sale of business                                 -                       -                12.8 
 Net cash outflow 
  from investing 
  activities                                 (78.1)                 (172.3)             (162.1) 
                                         ----------              ----------            -------- 
 
 Financing 
 Ordinary dividends 
  paid                                            -                       -              (30.3) 
 Dividends paid 
  to non-controlling 
  interests                                       -                       -               (3.2) 
 Settlement of 
  equity-settled 
  share based payments                        (2.8)                       -               (0.4) 
 Proceeds of borrowings                       133.1                   184.7               186.0 
 Repayment of borrowings                     (51.0)                  (10.0)              (82.7) 
 Net cash inflow 
  from financing 
  activities                                   79.3                   174.7                69.4 
                                         ----------              ----------            -------- 
 Increase in cash 
  and bank overdrafts 
  during the period                            14.2                    40.8                43.9 
                                         ==========              ==========            ======== 
 
 Comprised of: 
 
 Cash, cash equivalents 
  and bank overdrafts 
  at 1 January                                 52.0                     8.5                 8.5 
 Cash inflows / 
  (outflows) 
      Cash and cash 
       equivalents                 28.1                    49.7                  63.8 
      Bank overdrafts            (13.9)                   (8.9)                (19.9) 
                             ----------              ----------              -------- 
                                               14.2                    40.8                43.9 
 Exchange and other 
  movements                                     1.0                   (3.7)               (0.4) 
                                         ----------              ----------            -------- 
 Cash, cash equivalents 
  and bank overdrafts 
  at period end                                67.2                    45.6                52.0 
                                         ==========              ==========            ======== 
 
 

Reconciliation of net cash flow from operating activities to movement in net borrowings

 
                                      Six months   Six months    Year ended 
                                         ended        ended      31 December 
                                        30 June      30 June        2016 
                                         2017         2016 
                                     -----------  -----------  ------------- 
                                       Unaudited    Unaudited        Audited 
                                            GBPm         GBPm           GBPm 
 
 Net cash inflow from 
  operating activities                      13.0         38.4          136.6 
 Add back: dividends 
  received from joint 
  ventures                                   1.0          2.0            2.1 
 Less: net capital expenditure            (15.0)        (8.8)         (11.2) 
 Less: net purchase of 
  business                                (64.1)      (165.5)        (153.0) 
                                          (65.1)      (133.9)         (25.5) 
 
 Ordinary dividends paid                       -            -         (30.3) 
 Dividends paid to non-controlling 
  interests                                    -            -          (3.2) 
 Settlement of equity-settled 
  share based payments                     (2.8)            -          (0.4) 
 Exchange movements                        (6.1)        (3.7)         (13.5) 
                                     -----------  -----------  ------------- 
 Increase in net borrowings 
  (Underlying performance)                (74.0)      (137.6)         (72.9) 
                                     ===========  ===========  ============= 
 

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. General information

The information for the year ended 31 December 2016 does not constitute statutory accounts as defined in section 434 of the Companies Act 2006. A copy of the statutory accounts for that year has been delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The auditors' report on those accounts was not qualified, did not contain a reference to any matters which the auditor drew attention by way of emphasis without qualifying the report, and did not contain statements under section 498 (2) or (3) of the Companies Act 2006.

2. Accounting policies and basis of preparation

The annual financial statements of Synthomer plc are prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the European Union and applicable law. This condensed set of financial statements has been prepared in accordance with applicable law, the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority and with International Accounting Standards 34 'Interim Financial Reporting', as adopted by the European Union. The same accounting policies and methods of computations are followed in these financial statements as in the most recent audited annual financial statements except as described below.

Taxes on income in the interim periods are accrued using the tax rate that would be applicable to the expected total annual profit or loss.

After making enquiries and taking account of reasonably possible changes in trading performance, the Directors are satisfied that, at the time of approving the interim financial statements for the Group, it is appropriate to adopt the going concern basis.

3. Segmental performance & Special Items

The Group's Executive Committee, chaired by the Chief Executive Officer, examines the Group's performance and has identified two reportable segments of its business:

Europe & North America

These markets are well developed and are typically growing at GDP.

Asia & Rest of World

These markets are characterised by growth rates generally above GDP coupled with an increased penetration of more sophisticated products into wider uses.

The Group's Executive Committee primarily uses Underlying operating profit, being operating profit before Special Items to assess the performance of the operating segments. No information is provided to the Committee at the segment level concerning interest income, interest expenses, income taxes or other material non-cash items.

No single customer accounts for more than 10% of the Group's revenues.

The chief operating decision maker is the Group's Executive Committee.

IFRS and Underlying Performance

The IFRS profit measures show the performance of the Group as a whole and as such includes all sources of income and expense, including both one-off items and those that do not relate to the Group's ongoing businesses. To provide additional clarity on the ongoing trading performance of

the Group's businesses, management uses "Underlying" performance as an alternative performance measure to plan for, control and assess the performance of the segments. Underlying performance differs from the IFRS measures as it excludes Special Items.

Special Items

The definition of Special Items is shown in note 18 and has been consistently applied. These Special Items are either irregular, and therefore including them in the assessment of a segment's performance would lead to a distortion of trends, or are technical adjustments which ensure the Group's financial statements are in compliance with IFRS but do not reflect the operating performance of the segment in the year, or both. An example of the latter is the amortisation of acquired intangibles, which principally relates to acquired customer relationships. The Group incurs costs, which are recognised as an expense in the income statement, in maintaining these customer relationships. The Group considers that the exclusion of the amortisation charge on acquired intangibles from Underlying performance avoids the potential double counting of such costs and therefore excludes it as a Special Item from Underlying performance.

A segmental analysis of Underlying performance and Special Items is shown below.

 
 Reconciliation                   Six months ended June                          Six months ended June 
  of Underlying                            2017                                           2016 
  performance to 
  IFRS 
                    ------------------------------------------------                                          ---------- 
                        Europe        Asia   Unallocated       Total        Europe        Asia   Unallocated       Total 
                       & North      & Rest     corporate                   & North      & Rest     corporate 
                       America    of World      expenses                   America          of      expenses 
                                                                                         World 
                     Unaudited   Unaudited     Unaudited   Unaudited     Unaudited   Unaudited     Unaudited   Unaudited 
                    ----------  ----------  ------------  ----------  ------------  ----------  ------------  ---------- 
                          GBPm        GBPm          GBPm        GBPm          GBPm        GBPm          GBPm        GBPm 
 
 Revenue - 
  Underlying 
  and IFRS               593.2       177.1                     770.3         305.5       140.7                     446.2 
                    ----------  ----------                ----------  ------------  ----------                ---------- 
 
 Operating 
 profit/(loss) 
 - including share 
 of joint ventures 
 
 Underlying 
  operating 
  profit/(loss)           64.3        18.1         (5.9)        76.5          46.8        24.2         (6.1)        64.9 
 Special Items 
    Restructuring 
     and site 
     closure             (3.2)           -         (0.1)       (3.3)         (1.2)           -             -       (1.2) 
    Gain on 
     foreign 
     exchange 
     contracts 
     relating to 
     acquisition             -           -             -           -          12.4         0.7             -        13.1 
    Acquisition 
     costs               (1.2)           -             -       (1.2)         (3.3)       (0.2)             -       (3.5) 
    Sale of land           1.4           -             -         1.4             -           -             -           - 
    Amortisation 
     of acquired 
     intangibles        (13.2)       (1.9)             -      (15.1)         (9.5)       (2.6)             -      (12.1) 
                    ----------  ----------  ------------  ----------  ------------  ----------  ------------  ---------- 
                        (16.2)       (1.9)         (0.1)      (18.2)         (1.6)       (2.1)             -       (3.7) 
                    ----------  ----------  ------------  ----------  ------------  ----------  ------------  ---------- 
 
 IFRS operating 
  profit/(loss)           48.1        16.2         (6.0)        58.3          45.2        22.1         (6.1)        61.2 
                    ----------  ----------  ------------  ----------  ------------  ----------  ------------  ---------- 
 
 
 
                                           Year ended December 
                                                   2016 
                               ------------------------------------------- 
                                  Europe      Asia   Unallocated     Total 
                                 & North         &     corporate 
                                 America      Rest      expenses 
                                                of 
                                             World 
                                 Audited   Audited       Audited   Audited 
                               ---------  --------  ------------  -------- 
                                    GBPm      GBPm          GBPm      GBPm 
 
 Revenue - Underlying 
  and IFRS                         746.1     299.6                 1,045.7 
                               ---------  --------                -------- 
 
 Operating profit/(loss) 
  - including share 
  of joint ventures 
 
 Underlying operating 
  profit/(loss)                     93.3      48.7        (11.8)     130.2 
 Special Items 
    Restructuring 
     and site closure              (4.7)     (0.3)         (0.2)     (5.2) 
    Profit on sale 
     of South African 
     Business                          -       4.7             -       4.7 
    Gain on foreign 
     exchange contracts 
     relating to acquisition        12.4       0.7             -      13.1 
    Acquisition costs              (4.1)     (0.2)             -     (4.3) 
    Sale of land                       -      33.2             -      33.2 
    Amortisation 
     of acquired intangibles      (21.5)     (5.5)             -    (27.0) 
                                  (17.9)      32.6         (0.2)      14.5 
                               ---------  --------  ------------  -------- 
 
 IFRS operating 
  profit/(loss)                     75.4      81.3        (12.0)     144.7 
                               ---------  --------  ------------  -------- 
 

The restructuring and site closure costs in H1 2017 relate to post-acquisition integration costs and an onerous lease provision. Further integration costs are expected in H2 2017.

Acquisition costs relate to costs incurred in relation to Oxo Belgium (2016: PAC) and other acquisitions which have not occurred.

The profit on sale of land in 2017 related to a disposal of land in Hapton, UK. The profit on sale of land in 2016 related to the disposal of tranches of Malaysian land.

The amortisation of acquired intangibles has increased during the year, partly due to exchange movements and partly due to the intangibles acquired as part of the acquisitions made in the last twelve months.

The tax credit on special items was GBP3.5m (2016: GBP4.0m).

Further details are provided in the Chief Executive's Business Review and the glossary of terms in note 18.

4. EBITDA

The Group uses EBITDA as an alternative performance measure as it provides an indication of the level of cash being generated by the business from its trading activities in the period by excluding the "non cash" depreciation and amortisation charges. This is also the principal profit measure used for the financial covenants in the Group's debt facilities. The definition of EBITDA is shown in note 18.

 
     Reconciliation                 Six months ended June                          Six months ended June 
      of Underlying                          2017                                           2016 
      performance to 
      IFRS 
                      ------------------------------------------------                                          ---------- 
                          Europe        Asia   Unallocated       Total        Europe        Asia   Unallocated       Total 
                         & North      & Rest     corporate                   & North      & Rest     corporate 
                         America    of World      expenses                   America          of      expenses 
                                                                                           World 
                       Unaudited   Unaudited     Unaudited   Unaudited     Unaudited   Unaudited     Unaudited   Unaudited 
                      ----------  ----------  ------------  ----------  ------------  ----------  ------------  ---------- 
                            GBPm        GBPm          GBPm        GBPm          GBPm        GBPm          GBPm        GBPm 
 
    EBITDA                  75.2        24.6         (5.7)        94.1          53.6        29.4         (5.9)        77.1 
    Depreciation 
     and 
     amortisation         (10.9)       (6.5)         (0.2)      (17.6)         (6.8)       (5.2)         (0.2)      (12.2) 
                      ----------  ----------  ------------  ----------  ------------  ----------  ------------  ---------- 
    Operating profit 
     - Underlying 
     performance            64.3        18.1         (5.9)        76.5          46.8        24.2         (6.1)        64.9 
    Special Items         (16.2)       (1.9)         (0.1)      (18.2)         (1.6)       (2.1)             -       (3.7) 
                      ----------  ----------  ------------  ----------  ------------  ----------  ------------  ---------- 
    Operating profit 
     - IFRS                 48.1        16.2         (6.0)        58.3          45.2        22.1         (6.1)        61.2 
                      ==========  ==========  ============  ==========  ============  ==========  ============  ========== 
 
 
 

5. Reconciliation of profit from operations to cash generated from operations

 
                                    Six months   Six months    Year ended 
                                     ended 30       ended      31 December 
                                     June 2017     30 June        2016 
                                                    2016 
                                   -----------  -----------  ------------- 
                                     Unaudited    Unaudited        Audited 
                                          GBPm         GBPm           GBPm 
 
 IFRS Operating profit 
  - continuing operations                 58.3         61.2          144.7 
 Less: share of profit 
  of joint ventures                      (0.7)        (1.3)          (2.0) 
                                   -----------  -----------  ------------- 
                                          57.6         59.9          142.7 
 
 Adjustments for: 
     Depreciation                         17.5         12.2           29.7 
     Amortisation (Underlying)             0.1            -            0.2 
     Amortisation (Special 
      Items)                              15.1         12.1           27.0 
     Restructuring and site 
      closure (Special Items)              3.3          1.2            5.2 
     Gain on foreign exchange 
      contracts relating 
      to acquisition (Special 
      Items)                                 -       (13.1)         (13.1) 
     Acquisition costs (Special 
      Items)                               1.2          3.5            4.3 
     Share based payments                  0.5        (0.2)            2.0 
     Profit on sale of land 
      (Special Items)                    (1.4)            -         (33.2) 
     Profit on sale of business 
      (Special Items)                        -            -          (4.7) 
 Cash impact of restructuring 
  and site closure                       (2.2)        (1.6)          (5.5) 
 Cash impact of foreign 
  exchange contracts 
  relating to acquisition                    -        (1.4)           13.1 
 Cash impact of acquisition 
  costs                                  (1.1)        (1.4)          (4.0) 
 IAS 19 interest charge                  (2.4)        (2.5)          (4.5) 
 Pension funding in 
  excess of IAS 19 charge                (5.4)        (4.5)         (12.4) 
 Increase in inventories                (28.2)        (6.0)         (13.3) 
 Increase in trade and 
  other receivables                     (59.7)       (22.8)         (13.5) 
 Increase in trade and 
  other payables                          32.2         11.1           37.0 
 
 Cash generated from 
  operations                              27.1         46.5          157.0 
                                   ===========  ===========  ============= 
 
 

6. Tax

Tax on the Underlying profit before taxation for the six month period is charged at 20.0% (six months ended 30 June 2016: 22.0%; year ended 31 December 2016: 20.0%), representing the best estimate of the average annual effective income tax rate expected for the full year. Inclusion of the best estimate for the tax charge on the Special Items results in a tax rate of 20.2% (six months ended 30 June 2016: 16.4%; year ended 31 December 2016: 11.3%), on the IFRS profit before taxation. The difference in the effective tax rate on the Underlying profit before tax and the IFRS profit before tax reflects the tax associated with the Special Items, some of which are not taxable or subject to tax deductions.

7. Dividends

The interim dividend of 3.7 pence per ordinary share was approved by the Board on 7 August 2017 and will be paid on 6 November 2017 to members on the register at the close of business on 6 October 2017.

The final dividend in respect of 2016, which was approved by the AGM on 27 April 2017, was paid on 6 July 2017.

8. Earnings per share

 
                             Six months    Six months     Year ended 
                                ended         ended       31 December 
                               30 June       30 June         2016 
                                 2017          2016 
                            ------------  ------------  ------------- 
                               Unaudited     Unaudited        Audited 
                             '000 shares   '000 shares    '000 shares 
 
 Weighted average number 
  of shares in issue 
  - basic                        339,881       339,799        339,854 
 Weighted average number 
  of shares in issue 
  - diluted                      342,142       342,232        342,189 
 
 
 
                                      Six months ended                       Six months ended 
                                        30 June 2017                           30 June 2016 
                           -------------------------------------  ------------------------------------- 
                              Underlying     Special        IFRS     Underlying     Special        IFRS 
                             performance       Items                performance       Items 
                               Unaudited   Unaudited   Unaudited      Unaudited   Unaudited   Unaudited 
                                    GBPm        GBPm        GBPm           GBPm        GBPm        GBPm 
 
 Earnings Profit 
  / (loss) attributable 
  to equity holders 
  of the Company                    57.0      (14.7)        42.3           47.0         0.5        47.5 
                           -------------  ----------  ----------  -------------  ----------  ---------- 
 Basic earnings 
  per share                        16.8p      (4.3)p       12.5p          13.8p        0.2p       14.0p 
 Diluted earnings 
  per share                        16.7p      (4.3)p       12.4p          13.7p        0.2p       13.9p 
 
 
                             Year ended 31 December 
                                      2016 
                       --------------------------------- 
                          Underlying   Special      IFRS 
                         performance     Items 
                             Audited   Audited   Audited 
                                GBPm      GBPm      GBPm 
 
 Earnings Profit 
  attributable 
  to equity holders 
  of the Company                96.2      14.2     110.4 
                       -------------  --------  -------- 
 Basic earnings 
  per share                    28.3p      4.2p     32.5p 
 Diluted earnings 
  per share                    28.1p      4.2p     32.3p 
 

9. Assets classified as held for sale

The assets classified as held for sale comprise GBP0.3m in respect of the decision to sell agricultural land owned by the Group in Malaysia (30 June 2016: GBP6.5m; 31 December 2016: GBP0.3m). In 31 December 2016 a further GBP0.4m was included in respect of land in Hapton, UK which was subsequently sold, as disclosed in note 3. No further disposals were made in the six month period to 30 June 2017.

10. Financial instruments

The risks associated with the Group's financial instruments and related polices are detailed in note 23 of the 2016 annual financial statements. There have been no changes in the risks and the management thereof since 31 December 2016.

Fair values have been obtained from the relevant institutions where appropriate. Where market values are not available, fair values of financial assets and financial liabilities have been calculated by discounting expected future cash flow at prevailing interest rates and by applying period end exchange rates. The carrying amount of borrowings approximates to book value.

The fair value of the Group's financial instruments are measured using inputs other than quoted prices that are directly or indirectly observable. (Level 2 as defined in IFRS 13.)

There are no significant differences between the carrying value and fair value of either financial assets or financial liabilities.

11. Defined benefit schemes

The defined benefit plan assets have been updated to reflect their market value as at 30 June 2017. Actuarial gains or losses are recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Income in accordance with the Group's accounting policy. The liabilities have been updated to reflect the change in the discount rate assumption.

12. Acquisition of subsidiary

Acquisition of Perstorp Oxo Belgium AB

The Group acquired 100% of the issued share capital of Perstorp Oxo Belgium AB, a specialities chemical company, on 5 March 2017, to complement the Group's existing markets and customers.

 
                                 Provisional 
                                  fair value 
                                ------------ 
                                        GBPm 
 Net assets acquired 
 Intangible assets                      41.4 
 Property, plant and 
  equipment                              8.9 
 Deferred tax liabilities             (15.0) 
 Inventories                             5.6 
 Trade and other receivables             5.7 
 Cash and cash equivalents               2.0 
 Trade and other payables              (3.6) 
 Post retirement benefit 
  obligations                          (2.7) 
                                ------------ 
 
 Provisional fair value 
  of net assets acquired                42.3 
                                ------------ 
 Goodwill arising on 
  acquisition                           23.8 
                                ------------ 
 Total consideration                    66.1 
                                ------------ 
 
 Satisfied by 
 Cash consideration                     66.1 
 Cash flow 
 Cash consideration                     66.1 
 Cash acquired                         (2.0) 
 
 Net movement on borrowings             64.1 
 
 

Including provisional amounts, the total expected impact on borrowings is -

 
                                           GBPm 
 Net movement on borrowings per above      64.1 
 Cash impact of acquisition costs           0.5 
 
 Total movement on borrowings relating 
  to acquisition, to 30 June 2017          64.6 
 
 
 

International Financial Reporting Standard 3 "Business Combinations" (revised 2008) requires the assets acquired to be initially recorded at Fair Value at the date of acquisition. Any such Fair Value adjustments are provisional and will be finalised within twelve months of the acquisition date. Any resulting changes in the fair values may have an impact on the depreciation from the date of acquisition and would be recorded in the financial statements.

The goodwill arising on the acquisition of the business represents the premium the Group paid to acquire companies which complement the business and create significant opportunities for cross-selling and other synergies.

 
 Transaction costs expensed relating       GBPm 
  to acquisition of subsidiary 
     In 12 months to 31                       - 
      December 2016 
     In 6 months to 30 June 
      2017                                  0.5 
                                          ----- 
                                            0.5 
                                          ----- 
 

The acquired company contributed revenue of GBP12.6m and an operating profit of GBP1.8m to the results of the Group in the six month period to 30 June 2017. If the acquisition had been made on 1 January 2017, then the company would have contributed revenue of GBP18.0m and an operating profit of GBP2.8m to the results of the Group.

Acquisition of Performance and Adhesive Coatings business of Hexion Inc ("PAC")

Upon the acquisition of PAC on 30 June 2016, in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standard 3 "Business Combinations" (revised 2008), an extensive review was initiated of the PAC assets, liabilities and accounting policies. This review was completed by the 30 June 2017, and as a result a further GBP0.8m of adjustments to assets and liabilities has been made, in addition to adjustments made in the prior year. This resulted in an increase of GBP0.8m of goodwill, principally related to the accrual of additional liabilities.

13. Capital Commitments

The capital expenditure authorised but not provided for in the interim financial statements as at 30 June 2017 was GBP22.3m (2016: GBP16.7m).

14. Related party transactions

Transactions between the Company and its subsidiaries, which are related parties, have been eliminated on consolidation and are not included in this note. There were no other related party transactions requiring disclosure.

15. Seasonality

Historically, there has been no visible fixed pattern to seasonality in H1 compared to H2 performance in the Group, but, everything else being equal, because of the summer and Christmas break periods in Europe, management would normally expect the first half profits to be slightly stronger than the second half year.

16. Risks and uncertainties

There are a number of potential risks and uncertainties which could have a material impact on the Group's performance over the remaining six months of the financial year and could cause actual results to differ materially from expected and historical results. The directors do not consider that the principal risks and uncertainties have changed since the publication of the Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2016. These risks include:

-- Volatility and cyclicality of the global chemicals and polymers markets may adversely affect the results of the Group. The political risk of Brexit and other events on the worldwide economy together with economic slowdowns in growth markets could impact the business.

-- The markets in which the Group operates are highly competitive and the Group may lose market share to other producers of speciality chemicals or to other products that can be substituted for the products of the Group.

-- The ability of the Group to compete is highly dependent on its ability to protect its intellectual property and trade secrets as well as defend manufacturing sites from potential cyber-attack.

-- The Group could suffer significant losses of intellectual property or other assets through theft. The Group is exposed to continually evolving cyber and other security risks which could lead to regulatory fines, reputational damage and loss of opportunity.

-- Capacity enhancements designed to take advantage of growth and new markets, or other projects, are dependent on Synthomer managing projects well to correctly anticipate and deliver the benefits associated with the enhancement.

-- The Group's strategic plan involves significant M&A activity to enhance market positions including expanding the target search to adjacent speciality chemical businesses to provide new technologies. There is a risk that we fail to identify enough suitable opportunities, pay too high a price, fail to integrate acquired assets and drive planned synergies across the business, or encounter performance, funding and cash flow issues and potentially unknown liabilities.

-- Volatility in the prices of raw materials and energy prices may adversely affect the profitability of the Group and its working capital position.

-- The manufacture, storage and transportation of chemicals is inherently dangerous and any incidents relating to the hazards which the Group faces may adversely impact its financial condition, results of operations and reputation.

-- The failure or loss of a manufacturing plant, process, information or communication system, whether temporarily or permanently could occur, directly or otherwise, through natural disaster, failure of supplier, sabotage or cyber-attack, and would have an adverse impact on operations.

-- The Group may be liable for damages based on product liability claims brought against its customers in end-use markets.

-- Compliance with extensive environmental, health and safety laws and regulations could require material expenditure, changes in the operations of the Group or site remediation. Failure to comply could result in fines or the loss of a licence to operate.

-- The Group could suffer substantial penalties, damage to reputation and other sanctions for any failure to control anti-competitive behaviour, such as bribery and corruption, or otherwise not be in compliance with laws and regulations in the jurisdictions where we operate.

-- A significant proportion of the Group's turnover and assets are in currencies other than UK sterling and fluctuations in currency exchange rates may significantly impact the results of the Group.

-- The Group's balance sheet and cash flow, and also credit market conditions and credit ratings, may restrict the ability of the Group to obtain credit facilities or to refinance its existing debt facilities in the longer term.

-- The Group has funding risks relating to defined benefit pension schemes, the value of which are highly dependent on volatile stock markets.

The Group continues to manage these risks as set out in the Annual Report.

17. Further information

The interim financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 7 August 2017.

This statement can be obtained by the public from the Company's registered office at Temple Fields, Harlow, Essex, CM20 2BH, or on the company website www.synthomer.com.

18. Glossary of terms

 
 EBITDA                   EBITDA is calculated as operating profit 
                           from continuing operations before depreciation, 
                           amortisation and Special Items. 
-----------------------  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
 Operating                Operating profit represents profit from 
  profit                   continuing activities before finance 
                           costs and taxation. 
-----------------------  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
 Special Items                             The following are disclosed separately 
                                            as Special Items in order to provide 
                                            a clearer indication of the Group's 
                                            Underlying performance: 
                                             *    Amortisation of acquired intangible assets; 
 
 
                                             *    Impairment of non-current assets; 
 
 
                                             *    Costs of business combinations as defined by IFRS 3 
                                                  and related debt issue costs; 
 
 
                                             *    Re-structuring and site closure costs; 
 
 
                                             *    Fair value adjustment - mark to market adjustments in 
                                                  respect of cross currency and interest rate 
                                                  derivatives used for hedging purposes where IAS 39 
                                                  hedge accounting is not applied; 
 
 
                                             *    Items of income and expense that are considered 
                                                  material, either by their size and/or nature; 
 
 
                                             *    Tax impact of above items; and 
 
 
                                             *    Settlement of prior period tax issues. 
-----------------------  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
 Underlying               Underlying performance represents the 
  performance              statutory performance of the Group under 
                           IFRS, excluding Special Items. 
-----------------------  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
 Net cash /(borrowings)   Net cash /(borrowings) represent cash 
                           and cash equivalents less short and 
                           long term borrowings, as adjusted for 
                           the effect of related derivative instruments 
                           irrespective of whether they qualify 
                           for hedge accounting, non-recourse factoring 
                           arrangements, and the inclusion of financial 
                           assets. 
-----------------------  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
 Ktes                     Kilotonne or 1,000 tonnes (metric). 
-----------------------  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
 
 
 

Responsibility statement

The directors' confirm that these interim financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Accounting Standard 34, 'Interim Financial Reporting', as adopted by the European Union and that the interim management report includes a fair review of the information required by DTR 4.2.7 and DTR 4.2.8, namely:

- an indication of important events that have occurred during the first six months and their impact on the condensed set of financial statements, and a description of the principal risks and uncertainties for the remaining six months of the financial year; and

- material related-party transactions in the first six months and any material changes in the related-party transactions described in the last Annual Report

The directors of Synthomer plc are listed in the Synthomer plc Annual Report for 31 December 2016.

On behalf of the Board

 
 C G MacLean               S G Bennett 
 Chief Executive Officer   Chief Financial Officer 
 7 August 2017 
 

INDEPENT REVIEW REPORT TO SYNTHOMER PLC

Report on the interim financial statements

Our conclusion

We have reviewed Synthomer plc's interim financial statements (the "interim financial statements") in the interim results of Synthomer plc for the 6 month period ended 30 June 2017. Based on our review, nothing has come to our attention that causes us to believe that the interim financial statements are not prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with International Accounting Standard 34, 'Interim Financial Reporting', as adopted by the European Union and the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules sourcebook of the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority.

What we have reviewed

The interim financial statements comprise:

   --     the consolidated balance sheet as at 30 June 2017; 

-- the consolidated income statement and consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the period then ended;

   --     the consolidated cash flow statement for the period then ended; 
   --     the consolidated statement of changes in equity for the period then ended; and 
   --     the explanatory notes to the interim financial statements. 

The interim financial statements included in the interim results have been prepared in accordance with International Accounting Standard 34, 'Interim Financial Reporting', as adopted by the European Union and the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules sourcebook of the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority.

As disclosed in note 2 to the interim financial statements, the financial reporting framework that has been applied in the preparation of the full annual financial statements of the Group is applicable law and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union.

Responsibilities for the interim financial statements and the review

Our responsibilities and those of the directors

The interim results, including the interim financial statements, is the responsibility of, and has been approved by, the directors. The directors are responsible for preparing the interim results in accordance with the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules sourcebook of the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority.

Our responsibility is to express a conclusion on the interim financial statements in the interim results based on our review. This report, including the conclusion, has been prepared for and only for the company for the purpose of complying with the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules sourcebook of the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority and for no other purpose. We do not, in giving this conclusion, accept or assume responsibility for any other purpose or to any other person to whom this report is shown or into whose hands it may come save where expressly agreed by our prior consent in writing.

What a review of interim financial statements involves

We conducted our review in accordance with International Standard on Review Engagements (UK and Ireland) 2410, 'Review of Interim Financial Information Performed by the Independent Auditor of the Entity' issued by the Auditing Practices Board for use in the United Kingdom. A review of interim financial information consists of making enquiries, primarily of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters, and applying analytical and other review procedures.

A review is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) and, consequently, does not enable us to obtain assurance that we would become aware of all significant matters that might be identified in an audit. Accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion.

We have read the other information contained in the interim results and considered whether it contains any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the information in the interim financial statements.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Chartered Accountants

7 August 2017

London

Notes:

a) The maintenance and integrity of the Synthomer plc website is the responsibility of the directors; the work carried out by the auditors does not involve consideration of these matters and, accordingly, the auditors accept no responsibility for any changes that may have occurred to the interim financial statements since they were initially presented on the website.

b) Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

This information is provided by RNS

The company news service from the London Stock Exchange

END

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