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KYGA Kerry Group Plc

78.70
0.15 (0.19%)
26 Apr 2024 - Closed
Delayed by 15 minutes
Share Name Share Symbol Market Type Share ISIN Share Description
Kerry Group Plc LSE:KYGA London Ordinary Share IE0004906560 'A'ORD EUR0.125 (CDI)
  Price Change % Change Share Price Bid Price Offer Price High Price Low Price Open Price Shares Traded Last Trade
  0.15 0.19% 78.70 78.00 82.10 79.80 79.50 79.50 68,593 16:35:17
Industry Sector Turnover Profit EPS - Basic PE Ratio Market Cap
Food Preparations, Nec 8.02B 728.3M 4.1150 19.39 14.12B

Kerry Group PLC Interim Management Report (2671X)

09/08/2018 7:01am

UK Regulatory


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TIDMKYGA

RNS Number : 2671X

Kerry Group PLC

09 August 2018

News release

Thursday, 9 August 2018

Kerry Group - Interim Management Report

for the half year ended 30 June 2018

Kerry Group, the global taste & nutrition and consumer foods group reports a solid underlying business performance for the half year ended 30 June 2018.

 
       HIGHLIGHTS 
 
          *    Adjusted EPS* in constant currency up 9.0% to 144.2 
               cent 
 
 
          *    Group revenue of EUR3.2 billion reflecting 3.6% 
               business volume growth 
 
 
          *    Taste & Nutrition +4.1% volume growth 
 
 
          *    Consumer Foods +1.3% volume growth 
 
 
          *    Group trading margin -10bps to 10.5% reflecting a 
               40bps currency headwind 
 
 
          *    Taste & Nutrition +10bps to 13.1% 
 
 
          *    Consumer Foods -60bps to 7.0% 
 
 
          *    Basic EPS of 128.3 cent (H1 2017: 127.6 cent) 
 
 
          *    Interim dividend per share increased 11.7% to 21.0 
               cent 
 
 
          *    Free cash flow of EUR201m (H1 2017: EUR357m) 
 
 
          *    Full year guidance updated 
 
 
         * Before brand related intangible asset amortisation and non-trading 
         items (net of related tax) 
 

Edmond Scanlon - Chief Executive Officer

"Evolving consumer trends and the changing marketplace have provided increased opportunities and demand for Kerry's industry leading RD&A and broad technology portfolio. This, along with the Group's enhanced end use market focus, drove healthy volume growth and underlying margin expansion in the first half of 2018. We also continued to make progress with and invest in business development initiatives aligned to our strategic growth priorities.

In light of the above, we update our guidance and now expect to achieve growth in adjusted earnings per share of 7% to 10% in constant currency."

 
 Contact Information 
 
 
             Media 
             Frank Hayes              Director of                    +353 66 7182304          corpaffairs@kerry.ie 
                                      Corporate Affairs 
             Investor 
             Relations                                               +353 66 7182292          investorrelations@kerry. 
             Brian Mehigan            Chief Financial                +353 66 7182292          ie 
             William Lynch            Officer                                                 investorrelations@kerry. 
                                      Head of Investor                                        ie 
             Website                  Relations 
             www.kerrygroup. 
             com 
 

INTERIM MANAGEMENT REPORT

For the half year ended 30 June 2018

The breadth and pace of changing consumer demands continued to drive major fragmentation and change along the supply chain and within the industry. Major global consumer trends such as authenticity, healthfulness, sustainability, premiumisation, clean label and convenience aligned with local consumer preferences continue to drive increased innovation opportunities. The agility of Kerry's business model and integrated solution capability is more relevant than ever in supporting customers to optimise speed to market, in order to meet consumer preferences.

The Group again delivered volume growth ahead of its markets. Taste & Nutrition achieved sustained volume growth in North America, solid growth in Latin America, a good performance in Europe and continued strong growth in APMEA.

UK and Irish consumer foods markets encountered challenges in the period, however Kerry's Consumer Foods division delivered a solid underlying performance.

Business Performance

Group revenue on a reported basis increased by 1.4% to EUR3.2 billion reflecting strong volume growth and contribution from acquisitions, offset by adverse currency movements. Business volumes grew by 3.6% and pricing increased by 0.6% in the period. The reported revenue increase reflects the aforementioned business volume growth and positive pricing, contribution from acquisitions of 3.9%, an adverse translation currency impact of 6.6% and an adverse transaction currency impact of 0.1%.

Taste & Nutrition delivered 4.1% volume growth and pricing increased by 0.6%. Consumer Foods' business volumes increased by 1.3% and pricing increased by 0.9%.

Group trading margin reduced by 10 basis points to 10.5%, reflecting a 10 basis points improvement in Taste & Nutrition, positive underlying margin improvement in Consumer Foods offset by adverse sterling exchange rates resulting in a 60 basis points margin reduction.

Constant currency adjusted earnings per share increased by 9.0% to 144.2 cent (H1 2017 currency adjusted: 132.3 cent). Basic earnings per share increased by 0.5% to 128.3 cent (H1 2017: 127.6 cent).

The interim dividend of 21.0 cent per share represents an increase of 11.7% over the 2017 interim dividend. The Group achieved free cash flow of EUR201m in the period (H1 2017: EUR357m).

Business Reviews

Taste & Nutrition

 
                         H1 2018        Growth 
-------------------  -------------  ----------- 
    Revenue              EUR2,579m      4.1%(1) 
    Trading margin       13.1%          +10bps 
-------------------  -------------  ----------- 
 

(1)volume growth

   --       Volume growth driven by Meat, Beverage & Snacks End Use Markets (EUMs) 

-- Pricing +0.6% - easing raw material inflation managed through customer pass-through pricing model

-- Trading margin +10bps - good underlying growth driven by operating leverage, portfolio enhancement and efficiencies, offset by currency headwinds and growth investments

The division achieved good growth across an increasingly diverse customer base. Developing markets delivered strong growth of 9.6%, with APMEA being the main driver. Foodservice delivered a good performance across all regions, growing at 6.2% overall in the period. Reported revenue increased by 1.4% to EUR2,579m, as volume growth and the contribution from business acquisitions were offset by significant translation currency headwinds.

Kerry's taste technologies recorded a strong performance across all regions, with TasteSense(TM) sugar-reduction technology and natural extracts being key drivers of growth. Kerry's broad clean label technology portfolio performed well, with fermented ingredients, proteins, nutritional bioactives and enzyme technologies all delivering good growth in the period. The Group maintained a strong innovation pipeline, anchored by the ability to create new nutritional product solutions that meet local consumer taste preferences across the globe.

Americas Region

   --        2.8% volume growth 
   --        Good performance in North America, driven by Meat, Snacks & Beverage EUMs 
   --        LATAM delivering solid growth 

High levels of product churn continued right across the marketplace, with clean label being a major driver of product innovation across retail categories and foodservice channels. Centre of store categories continued to weigh on industry growth levels. Kerry delivered volume growth ahead of the market by winning market share through speedy innovation across broader customer alliances and partnerships. Reported revenue in the region decreased by 2.4% to EUR1,307m, with significant translation currency headwinds more than offsetting volume growth and the contribution from business acquisitions.

In North America, Kerry's Meat EUM continued to deliver strong growth, meeting consumer demands for authentic taste, natural shelf life preservation and a broader range of alternative protein based products. Kerry's natural extract capabilities were a key driver of growth in the Beverage EUM, where strong progress was continued through new launches with Kerry's 'Cold Brew' technology.

The Snacks EUM delivered strong growth through new innovative healthier snacks and indulgent world taste experiences. Kerry's dairy taste and clean label technologies benefitted from enhanced wellness and premiumisation trends within the Meals EUM.

The acquisitions of the Kettle business from Tyson Foods and Dottley Spice in late 2017 strengthened Kerry's positioning and contributed to a strong performance in the foodservice channel in the period. Good progress was also made in the expansion of fermented ingredient manufacturing capacity at the Group's Rochester, Minnesota facility.

In LATAM, Mexico and Central America delivered good growth, while Brazil performed well, but was impacted by the truck drivers industrial action in Q2. The Snacks and Bakery & Confectionery EUMs delivered good growth, along with foodservice chains across the region. The implementation of Kerryconnect progressed successfully in line with expectations.

The global Pharma EUM continued to grow well, with excipients in North America delivering strong growth. The Group acquired the pharmaceutical lactose manufacturing facility of Rothschild, Wisconsin based Foremost Farms in the period, further strengthening Kerry's pharmaceutical lactose supply base. Kerry's Ganeden(R) probiotics & Wellmune(R) branded immunity enhancing ingredients delivered excellent performance, as they continued to broaden market reach with a number of new launches into wider applications.

Europe Region

   --        2.7% volume growth 
   --        Good performance in Beverage, Meat & Dairy EUMs 
   --        Foodservice delivered strong growth through both chains & independent operators 

Good growth was achieved, as Kerry continued to develop its in-market customer engagement to meet evolving local consumer preferences across the region. Reported revenue increased by 2.9% to EUR700m, with volume growth and the contribution from business acquisitions partially offset by translation currency headwinds.

The Beverage EUM delivered a strong performance in both the retail and foodservice channels, with a number of innovations deploying Kerry's TasteSense(TM) sugar-reduction technology and natural extracts portfolio. New beverage menu ranges were developed with key foodservice partners.

The Meat EUM continued to provide good growth opportunities, as Kerry's clean label and innovative texture technologies performed well. Kerry's Smoke & Grill and Meat-Free technologies were successfully deployed in a number of new launches in the UK and Northern Europe. A majority shareholding was acquired in Netherlands based Ojah - a market leading plant-based protein manufacturer in Europe producing textured meat alternatives, enhancing the Group's meat-free technology portfolio. The Meals EUM was challenged in the period, as retailers in some geographies reduced promotional activity. The Bakery & Confectionery EUM delivered a solid performance, while the Snacks EUM performed well with better-for-you offerings and indulgent taste products. Russia delivered good growth, particularly into the Meat and Snacks EUMs, while production commenced in Kerry's first manufacturing facility in the country, providing a key platform for future business development and growth.

The Dairy EUM had good growth in the ice cream category, with a number of new launches in both premium and dairy-free ranges using Kerry's taste technologies. International dairy markets remained challenging during the half year. Demand from major dairy importing countries for primary dairy products continued to benefit from the nutritional values of dairy. While demand for butterfat in particular remained relatively strong, market stability was impacted by continued shifts in supply / demand balances.

APMEA Region

   --        10.1% volume growth 
   --        Good performance across all EUMs - in particular Snacks, Meals & Bakery 
   --        Progressing strategic expansion - both organic and acquisitive 

The APMEA region continues to evolve as a highly fragmented marketplace with broad-based market dynamics and consumer trends including convenience, healthfulness, snacking, e-commerce and increased regulation. Such trends, together with local consumer taste preferences, are driving major consumption change and underlying market growth in both retail and foodservice channels. Excellent growth was achieved in the period, as Kerry's business model continued to be successfully deployed. Kerry continued to invest in capabilities to capitalise on these ongoing local market opportunities. The recent acquisitions of Tianning Flavours, Taste Master and Hangman have all further strengthened Kerry's authentic local taste capabilities.

Reported revenue in the region increased by 9.7% to EUR537m, with volume growth and the contribution from business acquisitions partially offset by translation currency headwinds.

The Snacks EUM delivered strong growth due to the continued development of new snacking occasions across the region. Local category leaders continued to innovate through the introduction of new authentic world flavours, with Kerry's Smoke & Grill, Barbecue, and Dairy technologies being deployed across a range of products.

The Meals EUM performed strongly, through increased consumer demand across the region for new fusion flavours, using both sweet and savoury technologies, combined with better-for-you offerings in both the retail and foodservice channels, most notably in China.

The Bakery EUM continued to deliver strong growth in both sweet and savoury applications, through integrated solutions that supported customers in broadening their ranges.

Sub-Saharan Africa and MENAT achieved strong growth, through better-for-you applications into the Snacks & Beverage EUMs. The Group continued to invest in its strategic growth priorities in the region. Good progress was made through investments in ongoing footprint expansion in Malaysia, Indonesia and China. Two further acquisitions were made in the period; SIAS Food Co. - a leading China-based supplier of culinary and fruit ingredients and systems to the foodservice and food manufacturing industries, and Season to Season - a leading South African supplier of taste ingredients and systems to the African snack and food sectors.

Consumer Foods

 
                         H1 2018      Growth 
-------------------  -----------  ----------- 
    Revenue              EUR685m      1.3%(1) 
    Trading margin       7.0%         (60bps) 
-------------------  -----------  ----------- 
 

(1)volume growth

   --        Volume growth led by good performance across the Food to Go range 
   --        Pricing +0.9% - easing raw material inflation across the period 
   --        Trading margin - growth more than offset by the negative impact of transaction currency 

Changing consumer behaviours in the UK and Ireland and the evolving market landscape continue to drive heightened competition. Discounter chains continue to gain market share, with retailers in general focusing more on range simplification, customer brands and EDLP strategies. Within this rapidly changing environment, retailers are seeking to capitalise on higher growth areas of snacking and 'on the go' consumption, while consumers' multi-shopping behaviours continue to evolve, and online shopping maintains strong growth.

Reported revenue increased by 1.2% to EUR685m, as volume growth and the contribution from business acquisitions were offset by translation currency headwinds. 'Everyday Fresh' enjoyed solid growth, as the Richmond range delivered good growth across the period, with Richmond chicken sausages also being successfully launched in the second quarter. Denny benefitted from increased marketing support in Ireland. The traditional spreads category continues to be challenged, however the division's softer butter technology delivered good growth with private label brands within the UK, as did the Dairygold brand in Ireland.

'Convenience Meal Solutions' were impacted by reduced promotional activity as well as the extended warm weather spell towards the end of the period. While there was good business development in 'better-for-you' ranges, the frozen meals category continued to be challenged.

'Food to Go' performed well with strong growth in Cheestrings. The relaunch of Fridge Raiders commenced towards the end of the period, and the Fridge Raiders brand will now embrace a broader range of snacking products across a wider consumer demographic. Good progress was achieved in the development of the out of home segments with good growth into pub and restaurant chains. Rollover delivered strong growth with a number of new listings into retailers, as they developed broader food to go platforms in their stores.

The Brexit mitigation programme made further progress in the period and is on track to deliver on its objectives.

Financial Review

 
                                          Constant 
                                           Currency   Reported   H1 2018   H1 2017 
 Analysis of Results                      % change    % change     EUR'm     EUR'm 
---------------------------------------  ----------  ---------  --------  -------- 
 
 Revenue                                    8.0%        1.4%     3,225.3   3,181.3 
                                                                --------  -------- 
 
 Trading profit                             8.7%        0.5%       340.0     338.4 
 Trading margin                                                    10.5%     10.6% 
 Computer software amortisation                                   (14.9)    (11.9) 
 Finance costs (net)                                              (33.8)    (34.4) 
                                                                --------  -------- 
 Adjusted earnings before taxation                                 291.3     292.1 
 Income taxes (excluding non-trading 
  items)                                                          (36.5)    (38.5) 
                                                                --------  -------- 
 Adjusted earnings after taxation                                  254.8     253.6 
 Brand related intangible asset 
  amortisation                                                    (12.7)    (10.7) 
 Non-trading items (net of related 
  tax)                                                            (15.4)    (17.8) 
                                                                --------  -------- 
 Profit after taxation                                             226.7     225.1 
                                                                --------  -------- 
 
                                                                     EPS       EPS 
                                                                    Cent      Cent 
 Basic EPS                                              0.5%       128.3     127.6 
 Brand related intangible asset 
  amortisation                                                       7.2       6.1 
 Non-trading items (net of related 
  tax)                                                               8.7      10.1 
                                                                --------  -------- 
 Adjusted* EPS                                          0.3%       144.2     143.8 
 Impact of retranslating prior year 
  adjusted EPS at current year average 
  exchange rates                                                       -    (11.5) 
                                                                --------  -------- 
 Constant Currency Adjusted* EPS            9.0%                   144.2     132.3 
                                                                --------  -------- 
 
 

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

Analysis of Results

Revenue

On a reported basis Group revenue increased by 1.4% to EUR3.23 billion (H1 2017: EUR3.18 billion) and 8.0% in constant currency. Volumes grew by 3.6%, pricing increased by 0.6%, adverse transaction currency of 0.1%, contribution from business acquisitions of 3.9% and adverse translation currency of 6.6%.

H1 2017: Group reported revenue +4.8%, volumes +3.8%, pricing +1.8%, transaction currency (0.4%), acquisitions +0.6%, translation currency (1.0%).

In Taste & Nutrition, reported revenue increased by 1.4% to EUR2.58 billion (H1 2017: EUR2.54 billion). Volumes grew by 4.1%, pricing increased by 0.6%, contribution from business acquisitions of 4.6% and adverse translation currency of 7.9%.

H1 2017: Taste & Nutrition reported revenue +6.9%, volumes +4.2%, pricing +1.7%, transaction currency (0.1%), acquisitions +0.7%, translation currency +0.4%.

In Consumer Foods, reported revenue increased by 1.2% to EUR685m (H1 2017: EUR677m). Volumes increased by 1.3%, pricing increased by 0.9%, adverse transaction currency of 0.4%, contribution from business acquisitions of 1.0% and adverse translation currency of 1.6%.

H1 2017: Consumer Foods reported revenue (2.8%), volumes +2.3%, pricing +1.9%, transaction currency (1.4%), translation currency (5.6%).

Trading Profit & Margin

Group trading profit increased by 0.5% to EUR340.0m (H1 2017: EUR338.4m) reflecting 8.7% growth, after taking account of an adverse translation currency impact of 8.2% in the period.

Group trading profit margin reduced by 10 basis points to 10.5%, as underlying margin expansion attributable to improved product mix, operating leverage and efficiencies was offset by currency headwinds and growth investments.

Trading profit margin in Taste & Nutrition increased by 10 basis points to 13.1%, due to the benefits of improved product mix, operating leverage and efficiencies, offset by currency headwinds and growth investments.

Trading profit margin in Consumer Foods decreased by 60 basis points to 7.0%, due to significant transaction currency headwinds partly offset by underlying margin expansion.

Finance Costs (net)

Finance costs (net) for the period decreased by EUR0.6m to EUR33.8m (H1 2017: EUR34.4m) due to cash generation and a reduction in pension interest, offset by acquisition activity.

Taxation

The tax charge for the period, before non-trading items was EUR36.5m (H1 2017: EUR38.5m) which represents a reduction of 30bps since year end to an effective tax rate of 13.1% (H1 2017: 13.7%). The reduction in the tax rate was due to changes in tax rates in a number of jurisdictions.

Acquisitions

During the period, the Group completed a total of four acquisitions and entered into a joint venture at a total cost of EUR120.3m.

Non-Trading Items

The Group recorded EUR15.4m of costs net of tax (H1 2017: EUR17.8m) due to costs associated with acquisition integration and the Brexit mitigation programme.

Free Cash Flow

The Group achieved free cash flow of EUR200.6m (H1 2017: EUR357.2m). This decrease is due to increased investments in working capital and capital expenditure.

 
 Free Cash Flow                                      H1 2018   H1 2017 
                                                       EUR'm     EUR'm 
-------------------------------------------------   --------  -------- 
 Trading profit                                        340.0     338.4 
 Depreciation (net)                                     66.8      68.6 
 Movement in average working capital                  (29.6)     118.1 
 Pension contributions paid less pension expense      (21.7)    (22.7) 
                                                    --------  -------- 
 Cash flow from operations                             355.5     502.4 
 Finance costs paid (net)                             (22.8)    (21.0) 
 Income taxes paid                                    (18.2)    (21.8) 
 Purchase of non-current assets                      (113.9)   (102.4) 
                                                    --------  -------- 
 Free cash flow                                        200.6     357.2 
                                                    --------  -------- 
 
 

Balance Sheet

A summary balance sheet as at 30 June 2018 is provided below:

 
                                  H1 2018    H1 2017    FY 2017 
                                    EUR'm      EUR'm      EUR'm 
-----------------------------   ---------  ---------  --------- 
 Property, plant & equipment      1,607.9    1,430.1    1,529.6 
 Intangible assets                3,728.6    3,414.2    3,646.7 
 Other non-current assets           198.1      211.1      192.2 
 Current assets                   2,141.3    2,159.8    2,031.7 
                                ---------  ---------  --------- 
 Total assets                     7,675.9    7,215.2    7,400.2 
                                ---------  ---------  --------- 
 Current liabilities              1,696.5    1,546.8    1,567.8 
 Non-current liabilities          2,205.8    2,418.0    2,259.2 
                                ---------  ---------  --------- 
 Total liabilities                3,902.3    3,964.8    3,827.0 
                                ---------  ---------  --------- 
 Net assets                       3,773.6    3,250.4    3,573.2 
                                ---------  ---------  --------- 
 Shareholders' equity             3,773.6    3,250.4    3,573.2 
                                ---------  ---------  --------- 
 
 

Property, Plant & Equipment

Property, plant & equipment increased by EUR78.3m to EUR1,607.9m (Dec 2017: EUR1,529.6m, H1 2017: EUR1,430.1) due to additions made in the period and foreign exchange translation movements, offset by the depreciation charge.

Intangible Assets

Intangible assets increased by EUR81.9m to EUR3,728.6m (Dec 2017: EUR3,646.7m, H1 2017: EUR3,414.2m) due to additions made in the period and foreign exchange translation movements, offset by the amortisation charge.

Current Assets

Current assets increased by EUR109.6m to EUR2,141.3m (Dec 2017: EUR2,031.7m, H1 2017: EUR2,159.8m), as increased trade and other receivables and inventories were offset by a reduced level of cash in hand at 30 June 2018.

Retirement Benefits

At the balance sheet date, the net deficit for all defined benefit schemes (after deferred tax) was EUR35.4m (Dec 2017: EUR102.0m, H1 2017: EUR186.4m). The decrease in the net deficit from year end relates to a favourable movement in discount rates and inflation rates.

Net Debt

At 30 June 2018, net debt stood at EUR1,403.3m, an increase of EUR61.6m relative to the December 2017 debt of EUR1,341.7m.

Key Financial Covenants

At 30 June the key financial ratios were as follows:

 
                                          H1 2018   H1 2017   FY 2017 
                            Covenant        Times     Times     Times 
                         --------------  --------  -------- 
 Net debt: EBITDA*        Maximum 3.5         1.5       1.3       1.4 
 EBITDA: Net interest*    Minimum 4.75       14.8      14.9      16.2 
-----------------------  --------------  --------  --------  -------- 
 

*Calculated in accordance with lenders' facility agreements which take account of adjustments as outlined in the financial definitions accompanying the Interim Financial Statements.

The average maturity profile of net debt was 5.5 years at the end of the period (Dec 2017: 6.0 years). At the period end 72% of net debt was carried at fixed rates. The Group's balance sheet is in a healthy position. With a net debt to EBITDA* ratio of 1.5 times, the organisation has sufficient headroom to support its future growth plans.

Related Party Transactions

There were no changes in related party transactions from the 2017 Annual Report that could have a material effect on the financial position or performance of the Group in the first half of the year.

Exchange Rates

Group results are impacted by fluctuations in exchange rates year on year versus the euro. The chart below outlines the difference in average exchange rates from H1 2018 compared with H1 2017.

http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/2671X_1-2018-8-8.pdf

Principal Risks & Uncertainties

Details of the principal risks and uncertainties facing the Group can be found in the 2017 Annual Report on pages 62 to 68. These risks include but are not limited to; the identification and integration of acquisition targets, failure to adapt the portfolio to respond to unprecedented marketplace dynamics, quality & food safety risks, inability to secure, build, and engage a robust talent pipeline, systems implementation risks, unauthorised use of Group intellectual property, geopolitical risks, Brexit, and ongoing operational and compliance risks. However, risks with increased potential impact in the second half of the year include fluctuating currencies and ongoing geopolitical volatility including Brexit. The Group actively manages these and all other risks through its control and risk management process.

Going Concern

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

Dividend

The Board has declared an interim dividend of 21.0 cent per share (an increase of 11.7% on the 2017 interim dividend of 18.8 cent) payable on 16 November 2018 to shareholders registered on the record date 19 October 2018.

Future Prospects

Kerry has embraced the changing marketplace and is well placed to respond to localised consumer trends and customer requirements through industry leading innovation. Kerry's Taste & Nutrition model is uniquely positioned to deliver for customers in this environment. Growth prospects for the full year remain strong due to a good innovation pipeline, while bearing in mind the strong comparatives from the second half of 2017. While remaining cautious on the consumer landscape within the UK, Consumer Foods is well placed to continue to outperform its markets.

The Group will continue to invest in business development aligned to strategic growth priorities and lead the continued consolidation of the industry benefiting from the Groups strong balance sheet and scalable business model.

In February 2018, we guided growth in adjusted earnings per share of 6% to 10% on a constant currency basis. Given the momentum of the business, we now expect to achieve growth in adjusted earnings per share of 7% to 10% in constant currency.

Responsibility Statement

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

The Directors confirm that to the best of their knowledge:

-- the Group Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements for the half year ended 30 June 2018 have been prepared in accordance with the international accounting standard applicable to interim financial reporting adopted pursuant to the procedure provided for under Article 6 of the Regulation (EC) No. 1606/2002 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 July 2002;

-- the Interim Management Report includes a fair review of the important events that have occurred during the first six months of the financial year, and their impact on the Group Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements for the half year ended 30 June 2018, and a description of the principal risks and uncertainties for the remaining six months;

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

On behalf of the board

 
 Edmond Scanlon             Brian Mehigan 
  Chief Executive Officer    Chief Financial Officer 
 

8 August 2018

Disclaimer Forward Looking Statements

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

RESULTS FOR THE HALF YEARED 30 JUNE 2018

 
 Kerry Group plc 
 
 Condensed Consolidated Income 
 Statement 
 for the half year ended 30 June 2018 
                                                        Before 
                                                   Non-Trading     Non-Trading     Half year     Half year        Year 
                                                         Items           Items         ended         ended       ended 
                                                       30 June         30 June       30 June       30 June     31 Dec. 
                                                          2018            2018          2018          2017        2017 
                                                     Unaudited       Unaudited     Unaudited     Unaudited     Audited 
                                          Notes          EUR'm           EUR'm         EUR'm         EUR'm       EUR'm 
 Continuing operations 
 Revenue                                      2        3,225.3               -       3,225.3       3,181.3     6,407.9 
                                                     _________       _________     _________     _________   _________ 
 
 Trading profit                               2          340.0               -         340.0         338.4       781.3 
 
 Intangible asset amortisation                          (27.6)               -        (27.6)        (22.6)      (47.9) 
 Non-trading items                            3              -          (19.9)        (19.9)        (24.8)      (54.5) 
                                                     _________       _________     _________     _________   _________ 
 
 Operating profit                                        312.4          (19.9)         292.5         291.0       678.9 
 Finance income                               4            0.2               -           0.2           0.1         0.1 
 Finance costs                                4         (34.0)               -        (34.0)        (34.5)      (65.7) 
                                                     _________       _________     _________     _________   _________ 
 
 Profit before taxation                                  278.6          (19.9)         258.7         256.6       613.3 
 Income taxes                                           (36.5)             4.5        (32.0)        (31.5)      (24.8) 
                                                     _________       _________     _________     _________   _________ 
 Profit after taxation attributable to 
  owners of the parent                                   242.1          (15.4)         226.7         225.1       588.5 
                                                     _________       _________     _________     _________   _________ 
 
 Earnings per A ordinary share                                                          Cent          Cent        Cent 
 - basic                                      5                                        128.3         127.6       333.6 
 - diluted                                    5                                        128.2         127.5       333.2 
                                                                                   _________     _________   _________ 
 
 
 Kerry Group plc 
 Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income 
 for the half year ended 30 June 2018 
                                                                           Half year       Half year            Year 
                                                                               ended           ended           ended 
                                                                        30 June 2018    30 June 2017    31 Dec. 2017 
                                                                           Unaudited       Unaudited         Audited 
                                                                               EUR'm           EUR'm           EUR'm 
 Profit after taxation attributable to owners of the parent                    226.7           225.1           588.5 
 
   Other comprehensive income: 
 Items that are or may be reclassified subsequently to profit or 
 loss: 
 Fair value movements on cash flow hedges                                      (3.6)             7.4             5.3 
 Cash flow hedges - reclassified to profit or loss from equity                 (1.4)          (17.0)          (29.2) 
 Deferred tax effect of fair value movements on cash flow hedges                 0.5             1.3           (0.6) 
 Exchange difference on translation of foreign operations                      (2.6)          (60.8)         (108.8) 
 Fair value movements on revaluation of available for sale financial 
  assets                                                                           -               -             3.5 
 
 Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to profit or 
 loss: 
 Re-measurement on retirement benefits obligation                               60.6            74.7           130.1 
 Deferred tax effect of re-measurement on retirement benefits 
  obligation                                                                   (9.8)           (9.8)          (20.2) 
                                                                           _________       _________       _________ 
 Net income/(expense) recognised directly in other comprehensive 
  income                                                                        43.7           (4.2)          (19.9) 
                                                                           _________       _________       _________ 
 Total comprehensive income                                                    270.4           220.9           568.6 
                                                                           _________       _________       _________ 
 
 
 Kerry Group plc 
 
 Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet 
 as at 30 June 2018 
                                                                            30 June 2018   30 June 2017   31 Dec. 2017 
                                                                               Unaudited      Unaudited        Audited 
                                                                    Notes          EUR'm          EUR'm          EUR'm 
 Non-current assets 
 Property, plant and equipment                                                   1,607.9        1,430.1        1,529.6 
 Intangible assets                                                               3,728.6        3,414.2        3,646.7 
 Financial asset investments                                                        40.3           40.2           44.6 
 Investment in associates and joint ventures                                        19.6            5.9            5.8 
 Non-current financial instruments                                                  92.5          111.7           95.4 
 Deferred tax assets                                                                45.7           53.3           46.4 
                                                                              __________    ___________    ___________ 
                                                                                 5,534.6        5,055.4        5,368.5 
                                                                              __________    ___________    ___________ 
 Current assets 
 Inventories                                                                       848.4          744.1          797.5 
 Trade and other receivables                                                       989.8          897.5          893.1 
 Cash at bank and in hand                                               8          290.3          457.4          312.5 
 Other current financial instruments                                                10.3           56.0           20.3 
 Assets classified as held for sale                                                  2.5            4.8            8.3 
                                                                              __________     __________    ___________ 
                                                                                 2,141.3        2,159.8        2,031.7 
                                                                              __________     __________    ___________ 
 Total assets                                                                    7,675.9        7,215.2        7,400.2 
                                                                              __________     __________    ___________ 
 Current liabilities 
 Trade and other payables                                                        1,497.7        1,383.1        1,410.5 
 Borrowings and overdrafts                                              8           30.7            7.5           13.3 
 Other current financial instruments                                                 8.1           15.7            9.1 
 Tax liabilities                                                                   122.4           99.2          108.4 
 Provisions                                                                         35.7           36.9           25.3 
 Deferred income                                                                     1.9            4.4            1.2 
                                                                              __________     __________    ___________ 
                                                                                 1,696.5        1,546.8        1,567.8 
                                                                              __________     __________    ___________ 
 Non-current liabilities 
 Borrowings                                                             8        1,743.7        1,782.7        1,728.4 
 Other non-current financial instruments                                            11.4            0.6            7.9 
 Retirement benefits obligation                                         7           44.6          233.8          124.3 
 Other non-current liabilities                                                      96.2           89.1           96.7 
 Deferred tax liabilities                                                          250.8          250.4          241.9 
 Provisions                                                                         37.7           40.1           37.1 
 Deferred income                                                                    21.4           21.3           22.9 
                                                                              __________     __________    ___________ 
                                                                                 2,205.8        2,418.0        2,259.2 
                                                                              __________     __________    ___________ 
 Total liabilities                                                               3,902.3        3,964.8        3,827.0 
                                                                              __________     __________    ___________ 
 Net assets                                                                      3,773.6        3,250.4        3,573.2 
                                                                              __________     __________    ___________ 
 Issued capital and reserves attributable to owners of the parent 
 Share capital                                                          9           22.0           22.0           22.0 
 Share premium                                                                     398.7          398.7          398.7 
 Other reserves                                                                  (214.6)        (163.9)        (214.4) 
 Retained earnings                                                               3,567.5        2,993.6        3,366.9 
                                                                              __________     __________    ___________ 
 Shareholders' equity                                                            3,773.6        3,250.4        3,573.2 
                                                                              __________     __________    ___________ 
 
 
 
 Kerry Group plc 
 
 Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity 
 for the half year ended 30 June 2018 
 
                                                                   Share      Share       Other    Retained 
                                                                 Capital    Premium    Reserves    Earnings      Total 
                                                         Note      EUR'm      EUR'm       EUR'm       EUR'm      EUR'm 
 
 
 At 1 January 2017                                                  22.0      398.7      (98.0)     2,771.3    3,094.0 
 
   Profit after tax attributable to owners of the 
   parent                                                              -          -           -       225.1      225.1 
 Other comprehensive (expense)/income                                  -          -      (70.4)        66.2      (4.2) 
                                                                ________   ________    ________    ________   ________ 
 Total comprehensive (expense)/income                                  -          -      (70.4)       291.3      220.9 
 Dividends paid                                             6          -          -           -      (69.0)     (69.0) 
 Share-based payment expense                                           -          -         4.5           -        4.5 
                                                                ________   ________    ________    ________   ________ 
 At 30 June 2017 - unaudited                                        22.0      398.7     (163.9)     2,993.6    3,250.4 
 
   Profit after tax attributable to owners of the 
   parent                                                              -          -           -       363.4      363.4 
 Other comprehensive (expense)/income                                  -          -      (58.8)        43.1     (15.7) 
                                                                ________   ________    ________    ________   ________ 
 Total comprehensive (expense)/income                                  -          -      (58.8)       406.5      347.7 
 Dividends paid                                             6          -          -           -      (33.2)     (33.2) 
 Share-based payment expense                                           -          -         8.3           -        8.3 
                                                                ________   ________    ________    ________   ________ 
 At 31 December 2017 - audited                                      22.0      398.7     (214.4)     3,366.9    3,573.2 
 
   Profit after tax attributable to owners of the 
   parent                                                              -          -           -       226.7      226.7 
 Other comprehensive (expense)/income                                  -          -       (7.6)        51.3       43.7 
                                                                 _______   ________    ________    ________   ________ 
 Total comprehensive (expense)/income                                  -          -       (7.6)       278.0      270.4 
 Dividends paid                                             6          -          -           -      (77.4)     (77.4) 
 Share-based payment expense                                           -          -         7.4           -        7.4 
                                                                 _______    _______    ________    ________   ________ 
 At 30 June 2018 - unaudited                                        22.0      398.7     (214.6)     3,567.5    3,773.6 
                                                                 _______    _______    ________    ________   ________ 
 
 
 Other Reserves comprise the 
  following: 
 
 
 
                         FVOCI/        Capital              Other   Share-Based 
                            AFS     Redemption      Undenominated       Payment     Translation     Hedging 
                       Reserve*        Reserve            Capital       Reserve         Reserve     Reserve      Total 
                          EUR'm          EUR'm              EUR'm         EUR'm           EUR'm       EUR'm      EUR'm 
 
 At 1 January 2017            -            1.7                0.3          38.3         (147.0)         8.7     (98.0) 
 
 Total 
  comprehensive 
  expense                     -              -                  -             -          (60.8)       (9.6)     (70.4) 
 Share-based 
  payment 
  expense                     -              -                  -           4.5               -           -        4.5 
                       ________       ________           ________      ________        ________    ________     ______ 
 At 30 June 2017 
  - unaudited                 -            1.7                0.3          42.8         (207.8)       (0.9)    (163.9) 
 
 Total 
  comprehensive 
  income/(expense)          3.5              -                  -             -          (48.0)      (14.3)     (58.8) 
 Share-based 
  payment 
  expense                     -              -                  -           8.3               -           -        8.3 
                       ________       ________           ________      ________        ________    ________     ______ 
 At 31 December 
  2017 - audited            3.5            1.7                0.3          51.1         (255.8)      (15.2)    (214.4) 
 
 Total 
  comprehensive 
  expense                     -              -                  -             -           (2.6)       (5.0)      (7.6) 
 Share-based 
  payment 
  expense                     -              -                  -           7.4               -           -        7.4 
                        _______        _______            _______       _______         _______     _______     ______ 
 At 30 June 2018 
  - unaudited               3.5            1.7                0.3          58.5         (258.4)      (20.2)    (214.6) 
                        _______        _______            _______       _______         _______     _______     ______ 
 
   *The available for sale reserve under IAS 39 becomes the fair 
   value through other comprehensive income reserve (FVOCI) under 
   IFRS 9 at 1 January 2018. 
 
 
 Kerry Group plc 
 Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash 
  Flows 
 for the half year ended 30 June 2018 
                                                           Half year    Half year          Year 
                                                               ended        ended         ended 
                                                             30 June      30 June       31 Dec. 
                                                                2018         2017          2017 
                                                           Unaudited    Unaudited       Audited 
                                                  Notes        EUR'm        EUR'm         EUR'm 
 Operating activities 
 Trading profit                                                340.0        338.4         781.3 
 Adjustments for: 
 Depreciation (net)                                             66.8         68.6         134.0 
 Change in working capital                                    (66.9)       (42.9)           9.1 
 Pension contributions paid less pension 
  expense                                                     (21.7)       (22.7)        (95.3) 
 Payments on non-trading items                                (17.3)       (12.5)        (34.0) 
 Exchange translation adjustment                               (0.1)        (1.8)         (8.8) 
                                                          __________   __________   ___________ 
 Cash generated from operations                                300.8        327.1         786.3 
 Income taxes paid                                            (18.2)       (21.8)        (54.7) 
 Finance income received                                         0.1          0.1           0.1 
 Finance costs paid                                           (22.9)       (21.1)        (60.3) 
                                                          __________   __________   ___________ 
 Net cash from operating activities                            259.8        284.3         671.4 
                                                          __________   __________   ___________ 
 Investing activities 
 Purchase of assets                                          (122.4)      (103.4)       (301.3) 
 Proceeds from the sale of assets                                8.3          0.9           3.1 
 Capital grants received                                         0.2          0.1           0.9 
 Purchase of businesses (net of cash acquired)       10       (86.0)       (89.1)       (396.5) 
 (Purchase)/disposal of share in associates 
  and joint ventures                                          (15.6)         30.1          29.5 
 Income received from associates                                   -            -             - 
 Disposal of businesses                                            -            -             - 
 Payments relating to previous acquisitions                    (8.7)        (0.1)         (0.9) 
                                                          __________   __________   ___________ 
 Net cash used in investing activities                       (224.2)      (161.5)       (665.2) 
                                                          __________   __________   ___________ 
 Financing activities 
 Dividends paid                                       6       (77.4)       (69.0)       (102.2) 
 Issue of share capital                               9            -            -             - 
 Repayment of borrowings (net of swaps)                        (5.9)      (155.6)       (144.3) 
                                                          __________   __________   ___________ 
 Net cash movement due to financing activities                (83.3)      (224.6)       (246.5) 
                                                          __________   __________   ___________ 
 
 Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents                    (47.7)      (101.8)       (240.3) 
 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning 
  of period                                                    305.6        561.1         561.1 
 Exchange translation adjustment on cash 
  and cash equivalents                                           1.7        (9.4)        (15.2) 
                                                          __________   __________   ___________ 
 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period           8        259.6        449.9         305.6 
                                                          __________   __________   ___________ 
 
 Reconciliation of Net Cash Flow to Movement 
  in Net Debt 
 Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents                    (47.7)      (101.8)       (240.3) 
 Cash flow from debt financing                                   5.9        155.6         144.3 
                                                          __________   __________   ___________ 
 Changes in net debt resulting from cash 
  flows                                                       (41.8)         53.8        (96.0) 
 Fair value movement on interest rate 
  swaps (net of adjustment to borrowings)                      (4.0)          0.9           2.8 
 Exchange translation adjustment on net 
  debt                                                        (15.8)         47.3          75.2 
                                                          __________   __________   ___________ 
 Movement in net debt in the period                           (61.6)        102.0        (18.0) 
 Net debt at beginning of period                           (1,341.7)    (1,323.7)     (1,323.7) 
                                                          __________   __________   ___________ 
 Net debt at end of period                            8    (1,403.3)    (1,221.7)     (1,341.7) 
                                                          __________   __________   ___________ 
 
 
 

Kerry Group plc

Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements

for the half year ended 30 June 2018

1. Accounting policies

These Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements for the half year ended 30 June 2018 have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of IAS 34 'Interim Financial Reporting' and using accounting policies consistent with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union. The accounting policies applied by the Group in these Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements are the same as those detailed in the 2017 Annual Report except for changes in accounting policies in respect of IFRS 9 'Financial Instruments' and IFRS 15 'Revenue from Contracts with Customers' outlined below. Some comparative information has been re-presented to align with the current half year presentation. In the 2018 Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements, the Group has re-presented corresponding balances of 'Revenue by location of external customers' in note 2 for 2017 comparatives to align with the current year presentation. In addition the Group has included an accounting policy in relation to joint ventures as follows:

Basis of Consolidation - Joint Ventures

Joint ventures are all entities over which the Group has joint control, whereby the Group has rights to the net assets of the arrangement, rather than rights to its assets and obligations for its liabilities. Investments in joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method of accounting and are initially recognised at cost. On acquisition of the investment in joint venture, any excess of the cost of the investment over the Group's share of the net fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities of the investee is recognised as goodwill, which is included within the carrying value of the investment.

The Group's share of its joint ventures' post-acquisition profits or losses is recognised in 'Share of associate and joint ventures' loss/(profit) after tax' within Trading Profit in the Consolidated Income Statement, and its share of post-acquisition movements in reserves is recognised in reserves until the date on which joint control ceases. The cumulative post-acquisition movements are adjusted against the carrying amount of the investment, less any impairment in value. Where indicators of impairment arise, the carrying amount of the joint venture is tested for impairment by comparing its recoverable amount with its carrying amount.

Unrealised gains arising from transactions with joint ventures are eliminated to the extent of the Group's interest in the entity. Unrealised losses are eliminated to the extent that they do not provide evidence of impairment. The accounting policies of joint ventures are amended where necessary to ensure consistency of accounting treatment at Group level.

The following Standards and Interpretations are effective for the Group from 1 January 2018 but do not have a material effect on the results or financial position of the Group:

 
 -   IFRS 2 (amendment)   Classification and Measurement of Share-Based Payment Transactions 
 -   IFRS 4 (amendment)   Insurance Contracts 
 
 
 
 -   IFRS 9     Financial Instruments 
                IFRS 9, published in July 2014, replaces the existing guidance in IAS 39 'Financial Instruments: 
                 Recognition and Measurement'. IFRS 9 includes revised guidance on the classification and measurement 
                 of financial instruments, including a new expected credit loss model for calculating impairment 
                 on financial assets, and the new general hedge accounting requirements. It also carries forward 
                 the guidance on recognition and derecognition of financial instruments from IAS 39. 
 
                 IFRS 9 largely retains the existing requirements in IAS 39 for the classification and measurement 
                 of financial liabilities. However, it eliminates the previous IAS 39 categories for financial 
                 assets of held-to-maturity, loans and receivables and available for sale. Under IFRS 9, on 
                 initial recognition, a financial asset is classified as measured at amortised cost or fair 
                 value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI), or fair value through profit or loss (FVPL). 
                 The classification is dependent on the business model for managing the financial assets and 
                 on whether the cash flows represent solely the payment of principal and interest. The Group 
                 has quantified the impact on its consolidated financial statements resulting from the application 
                 of IFRS 9. The vast majority of financial assets held are trade receivables and cash, which 
                 continue to be accounted for at amortised cost. The majority of financial asset investments 
                 will continue to be accounted for at fair value through profit or loss with the exception 
                 of certain equity instruments which were previously classified as available for sale (AFS). 
                 Under IFRS 9, the Group will continue to measure these instruments at FVOCI. The AFS reserve 
                 will now become the FVOCI reserve. On this basis, the classification and measurement changes 
                 do not have a material impact on the Group's consolidated financial statements. 
 
                 Given historic loss rates, normal receivable ageing and the significant portion of trade receivables 
                 that are within agreed terms, the move from an incurred loss model to an expected loss model 
                 has not had a material impact. For trade receivables, the Group applies the IFRS 9 simplified 
                 approach to measure expected credit losses which uses a lifetime expected loss allowance. 
 
                 The Group has elected to adopt the new general hedge accounting model in IFRS 9. The new hedging 
                 requirements of IFRS 9 aligns hedge accounting more closely to the Group's risk management 
                 policies, as well as making more hedging relationships eligible for hedge accounting. Current 
                 hedging arrangements continue to be appropriate under IFRS. Under IFRS 9 when designating 
                 a cross currency swap contract as a hedging instrument the currency basis spread can be excluded 
                 and accounted for separately through other comprehensive income as a cost of hedging, being 
                 recognised in the income statement at the same time as the hedged item affects profit or loss. 
                 Accounting for the cost of hedging, which is not material, has been applied prospectively, 
                 without restating comparatives. 
 
                 The impact of adopting IFRS 9 on the consolidated financial statements was not material for 
                 the Group and there was no adjustment to retained earnings on application at 1 January 2018. 
                 In line with the transition guidance in IFRS 9 the Group has not restated the 2017 prior year 
                 / half year on adoption. 
 -   IFRS 15    Revenue from Contracts with Customers 
                IFRS 15 was issued to establish a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting 
                 for revenue arising from contracts with customers. The core principle of IFRS 15 is that an 
                 entity should recognise revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers 
                 in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in 
                 exchange for those goods or services. Under IFRS 15, an entity recognises revenue when (or 
                 as) a performance obligation is satisfied i.e. when 'control' of the goods or services underlying 
                 the particular performance obligation is transferred to the customer. At the date of adoption, 
                 the Group assessed the impact on its consolidated financial statements resulting from the 
                 application of IFRS 15. Kerry do not supply services and generally legal title of goods sold 
                 is transferred on shipment. In general there is one performance obligation in each of our 
                 sale contracts. In certain parts of the Group's business, the performance does not create 
                 an asset with an alternative use to the Group and the Group has an enforceable right to payment 
                 (cost plus a margin) for performance completed to date. In these circumstances, revenue is 
                 recorded over time rather than at a point in time. Based on the Group's contractual and trading 
                 relationships, the impact of adopting IFRS 15 on the consolidated financial statements was 
                 not material for the Group and there was no adjustment to retained earnings on application 
                 at 1 January 2018. The Group has not restated the 2017 prior year / half year on adoption. 
 -   IFRIC 22   Foreign Currency Transactions and Advance Consideration 
 
 
 
 The following revised standards are not yet effective       Effective Date 
  and the impact on Kerry Group is currently under review: 
 
 
 -   IAS 40 (amendment)   Investment Property   1 July 2018 
 
 
 -   IFRS 16   Leases                                                                                   1 January 2019 
               IFRS 16, published in January 2016, replaces the existing guidance in IAS 17 'Leases'. 
               IFRS 
               16 eliminates the classification of leases as either operating leases or finance 
               leases. It 
               introduces a single lessee accounting model, which requires a lessee to recognise: 
               assets 
               and liabilities for all leases with a term of more than 12 months and depreciation of 
               lease 
               assets separately from interest on lease liabilities in the income statement. The 
               Group is 
               assessing the potential impact on its consolidated financial statements resulting from 
               the 
               application of IFRS 16. During 2017 the Group commenced a review of its contractual 
               leases 
               and early indications from this initial review is that IFRS 16 will result in an 
               increase 
               in finance leased assets (right-of-use asset) of approximately EUR59.0m and a 
               corresponding 
               increase in financial liabilities of the same amount on the Consolidated Balance Sheet 
               of 
               the Group's financial statements. 
 

2. Analysis by business segment

The Group has determined it has two reportable segments: Taste & Nutrition and Consumer Foods. The Taste & Nutrition segment manufactures and distributes an innovative portfolio of taste & nutrition solutions and functional ingredients & actives for the global food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. The Consumer Foods segment manufactures and supplies added value branded and consumer branded chilled food products to the Irish, UK and selected international markets. Corporate activities, such as the cost of corporate stewardship and the cost of the kerryconnect programme, are reported along with the elimination of inter-group activities under the heading 'Group Eliminations and Unallocated'.

 
                                                                    Half year       Half year            Year 
                                                                        ended           ended           ended 
                                                                 30 June 2018    30 June 2017    31 Dec. 2017 
                                                                    Unaudited       Unaudited         Audited 
                                                                        EUR'm           EUR'm           EUR'm 
 
 External revenue 
 - Taste & Nutrition                                                  2,543.6         2,507.9         5,080.5 
 - Consumer Foods                                                       681.7           673.4         1,327.4 
                                                                   __________      __________     ___________ 
                                                                      3,225.3         3,181.3         6,407.9 
 
 Inter-segment revenue 
 - Taste & Nutrition                                                     35.4            35.2            78.3 
 - Consumer Foods                                                         3.7             3.6             3.6 
 - Group Eliminations and Unallocated                                  (39.1)          (38.8)          (81.9) 
                                                                   __________      __________     ___________ 
                                                                            -               -               - 
 
 Total revenue 
 - Taste & Nutrition                                                  2,579.0         2,543.1         5,158.8 
 - Consumer Foods                                                       685.4           677.0         1,331.0 
 - Group Eliminations and Unallocated                                  (39.1)          (38.8)          (81.9) 
                                                                   __________      __________     ___________ 
                                                                      3,225.3         3,181.3         6,407.9 
                                                                   __________      __________     ___________ 
 Trading profit 
 - Taste & Nutrition                                                    338.9           330.6           767.2 
 - Consumer Foods                                                        47.8            51.3           107.8 
 - Group Eliminations and Unallocated                                  (46.7)          (43.5)          (93.7) 
                                                                   __________      __________     ___________ 
                                                                        340.0           338.4           781.3 
 
 Intangible asset amortisation                                         (27.6)          (22.6)          (47.9) 
 Non-trading items                                                     (19.9)          (24.8)          (54.5) 
                                                                   __________      __________     ___________ 
 Operating profit                                                       292.5           291.0           678.9 
 
 Finance income                                                           0.2             0.1             0.1 
 Finance costs                                                         (34.0)          (34.5)          (65.7) 
                                                                   __________      __________     ___________ 
 Profit before taxation                                                 258.7           256.6           613.3 
 
   Income taxes                                                        (32.0)          (31.5)          (24.8) 
                                                                   __________      __________     ___________ 
 Profit after taxation attributable to owners of the parent             226.7           225.1           588.5 
                                                                   __________      __________     ___________ 
 
 

Information about geographical areas

 
                                                                Half year          Year 
                                                  Half year         ended         ended 
                                                      ended       30 June       31 Dec. 
                                               30 June 2018         2017*         2017* 
                                                  Unaudited     Unaudited       Audited 
                                                      EUR'm         EUR'm         EUR'm 
 Revenue by location of external customers 
 Europe                                             1,381.6       1,353.3       2,725.4 
 Americas                                           1,306.9       1,338.8       2,678.3 
 APMEA**                                              536.8         489.2       1,004.2 
                                                 __________    __________   ___________ 
                                                    3,225.3       3,181.3       6,407.9 
                                                 __________   ___________   ___________ 
 

*The 2017 segmental analysis has been re-presented to reflect the change in management responsibility whereby the revenues of external customers located in the Middle East & Africa are now reported as part of APMEA (formerly APAC) instead of Europe (formerly EMEA).

**Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa

The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those detailed in the Statement of Accounting Policies in the 2017 Annual Report. Under IFRS 15 'Revenue from Contracts with Customers' revenue is recognised at a point in time.

3. Non-trading items

 
                                                   Half year    Half year          Year 
                                                       ended        ended         ended 
                                                     30 June      30 June       31 Dec. 
                                                        2018         2017          2017 
                                          Notes    Unaudited    Unaudited       Audited 
                                                       EUR'm        EUR'm         EUR'm 
 
 Acquisition integration and 
  restructuring costs                       (i)       (13.7)       (19.9)        (36.0) 
 Consumer Foods Brexit mitigation 
  programme                                (ii)        (5.1)            -        (11.7) 
 Loss on disposal of businesses 
  and assets*                             (iii)        (1.1)        (4.9)         (6.8) 
                                                  __________   __________   ___________ 
                                                      (19.9)       (24.8)        (54.5) 
 
 Tax on above                         (i)-(iii)          4.5          7.0          11.9 
 Tax credit due to change 
  in tax rates                             (iv)            -            -          52.8 
                                                  __________   __________   ___________ 
                                                      (15.4)       (17.8)          10.2 
                                                  __________   __________   ___________ 
 
 

*including impairment of assets held for sale

(i) Acquisition integration and restructuring costs

During the period, acquisition integration and restructuring costs of EUR13.7m (30 June 2017: EUR19.9m; 31 December 2017: EUR36.0m) primarily related to costs of integrating acquisitions into the Group's operations and transaction expenses incurred in completing current year acquisitions. These costs reflect the closure of factories, relocation of resources and the restructuring of operations in order to integrate the businesses into the existing Kerry operating model. In the period ended 30 June 2018, a tax credit of EUR3.4m (30 June 2017: a tax credit of EUR6.8m; 31 December 2017: a tax credit of EUR10.8m) arose due to tax deductions available on acquisition integration and restructuring costs.

(ii) Consumer Foods Brexit mitigation programme

Kerry continues to implement the Brexit mitigation programme which was initiated in 2017. As part of this programme, certain sourcing and production activity has been relocated and other activities restructured as a result of the impending changes due to Brexit. The charge relating to this in 2018 is EUR5.1m (30 June 2017: EURnil; 31 December 2017: a charge of EUR11.7m) and the associated tax credit is EUR0.9m (30 June 2017: EURnil; 31 December 2017: a credit of EUR1.0m).

(iii) Loss on disposal of businesses and assets (including impairment of assets held for sale)

During the period the Group disposed of property, plant and equipment primarily in Ireland, Malaysia and the US for a consideration of EUR8.3m. In 2017, the Group disposed of unused property, plant and equipment and in the period to 30 June 2017 disposed of its 22.5% shareholding in Addo Food Group Limited for a combined consideration of EUR33.3m (30 June 2017: EUR31.0m). The investment in Addo Food Group Limited was disposed from the investment in associate line on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. A net tax credit of EUR0.2m (30 June 2017: a net tax credit of EUR0.2m; 31 December 2017: a tax credit of EUR0.1m) arose on the disposal of businesses and assets. There were no impairments of assets held for sale recorded in the period. In 2017, assets classified as held for sale were impaired to their fair value less costs to sell by EUR1.0m.

(iv) Tax credit due to change in tax rates

On 22 December 2017, the US Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("the Act") was enacted into law. This Act brings about fundamental changes to the US tax system, both from an individual and corporate tax perspective. As a result of the Act, the statutory rate of US federal corporate income tax has been reduced from 35% to 21% with effect from 1 January 2018. The reduction in the US corporate income tax rate to 21% required revaluation of Kerry's US deferred tax liabilities. This resulted in a one-off deferred tax credit in 2017, which is reported in the Income Statement as a non-trading item of EUR52.8m.

4. Finance income and costs

 
 
                                                               Half year          Year 
                                                  Half year        ended         ended 
                                                      ended      30 June       31 Dec. 
                                               30 June 2018         2017          2017 
                                                  Unaudited    Unaudited       Audited 
                                                      EUR'm        EUR'm         EUR'm 
 
 Finance income: 
 Interest income on deposits                            0.2          0.1           0.1 
                                                 __________   __________   ___________ 
 
 Finance costs: 
 Interest payable                                    (32.8)       (27.7)        (58.1) 
 Interest rate derivative                                 -        (2.7)           0.6 
                                                 __________   __________   ___________ 
                                                     (32.8)       (30.4)        (57.5) 
 
 Net interest cost on retirement benefits 
  obligation                                          (1.2)        (4.1)         (8.2) 
                                                 __________   __________   ___________ 
 Finance costs                                       (34.0)       (34.5)        (65.7) 
                                                 __________   __________   ___________ 
 
 

5. Earnings per A ordinary share

 
                                                               Half year ended     Half year ended        Year ended 
                                                                  30 June 2018        30 June 2017      31 Dec. 2017 
                                                                     Unaudited           Unaudited           Audited 
 
                                                                 EPS                 EPS                EPS 
                                                                cent     EUR'm      cent     EUR'm     cent    EUR'm 
 Basic earnings per share 
 Profit after taxation attributable to owners of the 
  parent                                                       128.3     226.7     127.6     225.1    333.6    588.5 
 Brand related intangible asset amortisation                     7.2      12.7       6.1      10.7     13.4     23.6 
 Non-trading items (net of related tax)                          8.7      15.4      10.1      17.8    (5.8)   (10.2) 
                                                              ______    ______    ______    ______   ______   ______ 
 Adjusted earnings                                             144.2     254.8     143.8     253.6    341.2    601.9 
                                                              ______    ______    ______    ______   ______   ______ 
 Diluted earnings per share 
 Profit after taxation attributable to owners of the 
  parent                                                       128.2     226.7     127.5     225.1    333.2    588.5 
 Adjusted earnings                                             144.1     254.8     143.7     253.6    340.8    601.9 
                                                              ______    ______    ______    ______   ______   ______ 
 

In addition to the basic and diluted earnings per share, an adjusted earnings per share is also provided as it is considered more reflective of the Group's underlying trading performance. Adjusted earnings is profit after taxation attributable to owners of the parent before brand related intangible asset amortisation and non-trading items (net of related tax). These items are excluded in order to assist in the understanding of underlying earnings.

 
                                                                     Number of       Number of 
                                              Number of Shares          Shares          Shares 
                                                  30 June 2018    30 June 2017    31 Dec. 2017 
                                                     Unaudited       Unaudited         Audited 
                                                           m's             m's             m's 
 Number of Shares 
 Basic weighted average number of shares                 176.7           176.4           176.4 
 Impact of share options outstanding                       0.1             0.1             0.2 
                                                       _______         _______         _______ 
 Diluted weighted average number of shares               176.8           176.5           176.6 
                                                       _______         _______         _______ 
 
 

6. Dividends

 
                                                                           Half year       Half year            Year 
                                                                               ended           ended           ended 
                                                                        30 June 2018    30 June 2017    31 Dec. 2017 
                                                                           Unaudited       Unaudited         Audited 
                                                                               EUR'm           EUR'm           EUR'm 
 Amounts recognised as distributions to equity shareholders in the 
 period 
 Final 2017 dividend of 43.90 cent per A ordinary share paid 18 May 
  2018 
  (Final 2016 dividend of 39.20 cent per A ordinary share paid 19 
  May 2017)                                                                     77.4            69.0            69.0 
 
 Interim 2017 dividend of 18.80 cent per A ordinary share paid 10 
  November 2017                                                                    -               -            33.2 
                                                                            ________        ________       _________ 
                                                                                77.4            69.0           102.2 
                                                                            ________        ________       _________ 
 
 
 

Since the end of the period, the Board has proposed an interim dividend of 21.00 cent per A ordinary share. The payment date for the interim dividend will be 16 November 2018 to shareholders registered on the record date as at 19 October 2018. These Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements do not reflect this dividend.

7. Retirement benefits obligation

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

 
                                                            Half year       Half year            Year 
                                                                ended           ended           ended 
                                                         30 June 2018    30 June 2017    31 Dec. 2017 
                                                            Unaudited       Unaudited         Audited 
                                                                EUR'm           EUR'm           EUR'm 
 
 Net recognised deficit in plans before deferred tax           (44.6)         (233.8)         (124.3) 
 Net related deferred tax asset                                   9.2            47.4            22.3 
                                                             ________        ________       _________ 
 
 Net recognised deficit in plans after deferred tax            (35.4)         (186.4)         (102.0) 
                                                             ________        ________       _________ 
 
 

At 30 June 2018, the net deficit before deferred tax for defined benefit post-retirement schemes was EUR44.6m (30 June 2017: EUR233.8m; 31 December 2017: EUR124.3m). This was calculated by rolling forward the defined benefit post-retirement schemes' liabilities at 31 December 2017 to reflect material movements in underlying assumptions over the period while the defined benefit post-retirement schemes' assets at 30 June 2018 are measured at market value. The decrease in the net deficit before deferred tax of EUR189.2m was driven primarily by favourable movements in discount and inflation rates.

8. Financial instruments

i) The following table outlines the components of net debt by category at the balance sheet date:

 
                                                                Liabilities at 
                                     Loans & Other Financial        Fair Value 
                                     Assets/(Liabilities) at    through Profit     Derivatives Designated 
                                              Amortised Cost           or Loss     as Hedging Instruments        Total 
                                                       EUR'm             EUR'm                      EUR'm        EUR'm 
 
 Assets: 
 Interest rate swaps                                       -                 -                       92.2         92.2 
 Cash at bank and in hand                              290.3                 -                          -        290.3 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
                                                       290.3                 -                       92.2        382.5 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
 
 Liabilities: 
 Interest rate swaps                                       -                 -                     (11.4)       (11.4) 
 
 Bank overdrafts                                      (30.7)                 -                          -       (30.7) 
 Bank loans                                                -                 -                          -            - 
 Senior notes                                      (1,737.9)             (5.8)                          -    (1,743.7) 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
 Borrowings and overdrafts                         (1,768.6)             (5.8)                          -    (1,774.4) 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
                                                   (1,768.6)             (5.8)                     (11.4)    (1,785.8) 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
 At 30 June 2018 - unaudited                       (1,478.3)             (5.8)                       80.8    (1,403.3) 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
 
 
   Assets: 
 Interest rate swaps                                       -                 -                      111.7        111.7 
 Cash at bank and in hand                              457.4                 -                          -        457.4 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
                                                       457.4                 -                      111.7        569.1 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
 
 Liabilities: 
 Interest rate swaps                                       -                 -                      (0.6)        (0.6) 
 
 Bank overdrafts                                       (7.5)                 -                          -        (7.5) 
 Banks loans                                               -                 -                          -            - 
 Senior notes                                      (1,756.9)            (25.8)                          -    (1,782.7) 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
 Borrowings and overdrafts                         (1,764.4)            (25.8)                          -    (1,790.2) 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
                                                   (1,764.4)            (25.8)                      (0.6)    (1,790.8) 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
 At 30 June 2017 - unaudited                       (1,307.0)            (25.8)                      111.1    (1,221.7) 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
 
 Assets: 
 Interest rate swaps                                       -                 -                       95.4         95.4 
 Cash at bank and in hand                              312.5                 -                          -        312.5 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
                                                       312.5                 -                       95.4        407.9 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
 
 Liabilities: 
 Interest rate swaps                                       -                 -                      (7.9)        (7.9) 
 
 Bank overdrafts                                       (6.9)                 -                          -        (6.9) 
 Bank loans                                            (6.4)                 -                          -        (6.4) 
 Senior notes                                      (1,708.4)            (20.0)                          -    (1,728.4) 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
 Borrowings and overdrafts                         (1,721.7)            (20.0)                          -    (1,741.7) 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
                                                   (1,721.7)            (20.0)                      (7.9)    (1,749.6) 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
 At 31 December 2017 - audited                     (1,409.2)            (20.0)                       87.5    (1,341.7) 
                                                  __________          ________                   ________   __________ 
 
 
 

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

Part of the Group's debt portfolio includes US$750m of senior notes issued in 2013 and US$408m of senior notes issued in 2010. At the time of issuance and at the date of reporting, US$250m of the 2013 senior notes and US$408m of the 2010 senior notes were swapped, using cross currency swaps, to euro. In addition, the Group holds EUR750m of senior notes issued in 2015, of which EUR175m were swapped, using cross currency swaps, to US dollar.

The adjustment to senior notes classified under liabilities at fair value through profit or loss of EUR5.8m (30 June 2017: EUR25.8m; 31 December 2017: EUR20.0m) represents the part adjustment to the carrying value of debt from applying fair value hedge accounting for interest rate risk. This amount is primarily offset by the fair value adjustment on corresponding hedge items being the underlying cross currency interest rate swaps.

ii) The following table sets out the currency profile of the Group's net debt, highlighting the impact of cross currency swaps (CCS) on net debt:

 
                       Pre CCS       Notional CCS           Post CCS 
               Half year ended    Half year ended    Half year ended   Half year ended      Year ended 
                  30 June 2018       30 June 2018       30 June 2018      30 June 2017    31 Dec. 2017 
                     Unaudited          Unaudited          Unaudited         Unaudited         Audited 
                         EUR'm              EUR'm              EUR'm             EUR'm           EUR'm 
 
 Euro                  (627.9)            (390.4)          (1,018.3)           (849.6)       (1,000.2) 
 Sterling                 86.0                  -               86.0             165.8           123.7 
 US Dollar             (914.7)              390.4            (524.3)           (562.1)         (531.8) 
 Other                    53.3                  -               53.3              24.2            66.6 
                     _________           ________          _________         _________       _________ 
                     (1,403.3)                  -          (1,403.3)         (1,221.7)       (1,341.7) 
                     _________           ________          _________         _________       _________ 
 

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

 
 
                                    On demand &       Up to 
                                   up to 1 year     2 years     2 - 5 years     > 5 years       Total 
                                          EUR'm       EUR'm           EUR'm         EUR'm       EUR'm 
 
 Cash at bank and in hand                 290.3           -               -             -       290.3 
 Interest rate swaps                          -        40.0            14.2          26.6        80.8 
 Bank overdrafts                         (30.7)           -               -             -      (30.7) 
 Bank loans                                   -           -               -             -           - 
 Senior notes                                 -     (181.3)         (743.9)       (818.5)   (1,743.7) 
                                       ________    ________       _________     _________   _________ 
 At 30 June 2018 - unaudited              259.6     (141.3)         (729.7)       (791.9)   (1,403.3) 
                                       ________    ________       _________     _________   _________ 
 
 Cash at bank and in hand                 457.4           -               -             -       457.4 
 Interest rate swaps                          -           -            76.6          34.5       111.1 
 Bank overdrafts                          (7.5)           -               -             -       (7.5) 
 Bank loans                                   -           -               -             -           - 
 Senior notes                                 -           -         (307.5)     (1,475.2)   (1,782.7) 
                                       ________    ________       _________     _________   _________ 
 At 30 June 2017 - unaudited              449.9           -         (230.9)     (1,440.7)   (1,221.7) 
                                       ________    ________       _________     _________   _________ 
 
 Cash at bank and in hand                 312.5           -               -             -       312.5 
 Interest rate swaps                          -           -            62.2          25.3        87.5 
 Bank overdrafts                          (6.9)           -               -             -       (6.9) 
 Bank loans                               (6.4)           -               -             -       (6.4) 
 Senior notes                                 -           -         (289.1)     (1,439.3)   (1,728.4) 
                                      _________    ________       _________     _________   _________ 
 At 31 December 2017 - audited            299.2           -         (226.9)     (1,414.0)   (1,341.7) 
                                      _________    ________       _________     _________   _________ 
 
 

At 30 June 2018, the Group had undrawn committed bank facilities of EUR1,100m, comprising primarily of a revolving credit facility maturing in 2022.

iv) Fair value of financial instruments

a) Fair value of financial instruments carried at fair value

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

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

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

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

 
                                                                                   30 June       30 June       31 Dec. 
                                                                                      2018          2017          2017 
                                                                  Fair Value     Unaudited     Unaudited       Audited 
                                                                   Hierarchy         EUR'm         EUR'm         EUR'm 
 
 Financial assets 
 Interest rate swaps                                                 Level 2          92.2         111.7          95.4 
 Forward foreign exchange contracts: Non-current                     Level 2           0.3             -             - 
                                                     Current         Level 2          10.3          56.0          20.3 
 Financial asset investments: Fair value through profit or 
  loss                                                               Level 1          33.1          36.1          37.4 
                                                      FVOCI / 
                                                       AFS 
                                                       reserve       Level 3           7.2           4.1           7.2 
 
   Financial liabilities 
 Interest rate swaps                                                 Level 2        (11.4)         (0.6)         (7.9) 
 Forward foreign exchange contracts                                  Level 2         (8.1)        (15.7)         (9.1) 
                                                                                 _________     _________     _________ 
 
 

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

b) Fair value of financial instruments carried at amortised cost

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

 
                                  Carrying             Fair      Carrying 
                                    Amount            Value        Amount                      Carrying 
                                   30 June          30 June       30 June     Fair Value         Amount     Fair Value 
                        Fair          2018             2018          2017   30 June 2017   31 Dec. 2017   31 Dec. 2017 
                       Value     Unaudited        Unaudited     Unaudited      Unaudited        Audited        Audited 
                   Hierarchy         EUR'm            EUR'm         EUR'm          EUR'm          EUR'm          EUR'm 
 Financial 
 liabilities 
 Senior notes 
  - Public           Level 2     (1,387.3)        (1,382.9)     (1,399.2)      (1,425.0)      (1,368.0)      (1,407.0) 
 Senior notes 
  - Private          Level 2       (350.6)          (355.3)       (357.7)        (373.3)        (340.4)        (354.9) 
                                 _________        _________     _________      _________      _________      _________ 
                                 (1,737.9)        (1,738.2)     (1,756.9)      (1,798.3)      (1,708.4)      (1,761.9) 
                                 _________        _________     _________      _________      _________      _________ 
 
 

c) Valuation principles

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

- assets and liabilities with standard terms and conditions and traded on active liquid markets are determined with reference to quoted market prices;

- other financial assets and liabilities (excluding derivatives) are determined in accordance with generally accepted pricing models based on discounted cash flow analysis using prices from observable current market transactions and dealer quotes for similar instruments; and

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

Net debt reconciliation

 
                                       Other assets                 Liabilities from financing 
                                                                            activities 
 
                                      Cash                    Overdrafts     Borrowings     Borrowings 
                                   at bank       Interest     due within     due within      due after 
                                    and in     Rate Swaps         1 year         1 year         1 year       Total 
                                      hand          EUR'm          EUR'm          EUR'm          EUR'm       EUR'm 
                                     EUR'm 
 
 Net debt as at 31 December 
  2016                               564.7          171.1          (3.6)        (188.9)      (1,867.0)   (1,323.7) 
 
 Cash flows                         (97.8)         (25.3)          (4.0)          181.4          (0.5)        53.8 
 Foreign exchange adjustments        (9.5)            0.5            0.1            7.5           48.7        47.3 
 Other non-cash movements                -         (35.2)              -              -           36.1         0.9 
                                   _______        _______        _______        _______       ________    ________ 
 Net debt as at 30 June 
  2017 - unaudited                   457.4          111.1          (7.5)              -      (1,782.7)   (1,221.7) 
 
 Cash flows                        (139.1)          (0.1)            0.6         (10.7)          (0.5)     (149.8) 
 Foreign exchange adjustments        (5.8)            0.4              -            4.3           29.0        27.9 
 Other non-cash movements                -         (23.9)              -              -           25.8         1.9 
                                   _______        _______        _______        _______       ________    ________ 
 Net debt as at 31 December 
  2017 - audited                     312.5           87.5          (6.9)          (6.4)      (1,728.4)   (1,341.7) 
 
 Cash flows                         (23.1)              -         (24.6)            6.5          (0.6)      (41.8) 
 Foreign exchange adjustments          0.9            0.4            0.8          (0.1)         (17.8)      (15.8) 
 Other non-cash movements                -          (7.1)              -              -            3.1       (4.0) 
                                    ______         ______         ______         ______        _______     _______ 
 Net debt as at 30 June              290.3           80.8         (30.7)              -      (1,743.7)   (1,403.3) 
  2018 - unaudited                  ______         ______         ______         ______        _______   _______ 
 

9. Share capital

 
                                                 Half year       Half year            Year 
                                                      ended           ended           ended 
                                               30 June 2018    30 June 2017    31 Dec. 2017 
                                                  Unaudited       Unaudited         Audited 
                                                      EUR'm           EUR'm           EUR'm 
 
 
    Authorised 
    280,000,000 A ordinary shares of 12.50 
     cent each                                         35.0            35.0            35.0 
                                                  _________       _________       _________ 
 
    Allotted, called-up and fully paid (A 
    ordinary shares of 12.50 cent each) 
    At beginning of the financial period               22.0            22.0            22.0 
    Shares issued during the financial 
    period                                                -               -               - 
                                                  _________       _________       _________ 
    At end of the financial period                     22.0            22.0            22.0 
                                                  _________       _________       _________ 
 

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

Shares issued during the period

During the period, a total of 104,736 A ordinary shares were issued at the nominal value of 12.50 cent per share under the Group's Long Term Incentive Plan and Short Term Incentive Plans.

The total number of shares in issue at 30 June 2018 was 176,287,141 (30 June 2017: 176,114,006; 31 December 2017: 176,182,405).

10. Business combinations and joint ventures

During the period, the Group completed a total of four acquisitions, all of which are 100% owned by the Group.

 
 Acquisition                          Acquired   Principal activity 
 
 Zhejiang Hangman Food Technologies   January    Hangman is a China-based sweet and 
  Co. Ltd                                         savoury flavour and natural extract 
                                                  manufacturer that serves primarily 
                                                  the Chinese market. 
 
 Season to Season Flavour             February   Season to Season is a leading South 
  Manufacturers (Pty) Limited                     African supplier of taste ingredients 
                                                  and systems to the African snack 
                                                  and food sectors. 
 
 SIAS Food Co.                        March      SIAS is a leading China-based supplier 
                                                  of culinary and fruit ingredients 
                                                  and systems to the foodservice and 
                                                  food manufacturing industries. 
 
 Foremost Farms Pharma Lactose        May        A producer of pharma lactose, based 
                                                  in the USA. 
 

The total consideration for these acquisitions was EUR104.7m, of which EUR15.1m was prepaid in December 2017 and EUR3.6m is a deferred element. Transaction expenses related to these acquisitions were charged against non-trading items in the Group's Condensed Consolidated Income Statement during the period and represented less than one percent of the total consideration.

The provisional net assets acquired before combination were EUR41.6m and the Group recognised goodwill on these acquisitions of EUR63.1m. Given that the valuation of the fair value of assets and liabilities recently acquired is still in progress, these values are determined provisionally. The goodwill is attributable to the expected profitability, revenue growth, future market development and assembled workforce of the acquired businesses and the synergies expected to arise within the Group after the acquisitions. EUR4.7m of goodwill recognised is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.

The acquisition method of accounting has been used to consolidate the businesses acquired in the Group's financial statements. Due to the fact that these acquisitions were recently completed, the revenue and results included in the Group's reported figures are not material. For the acquisitions completed in 2017, to date, there have been no material revisions of the provisional fair value adjustments since the initial values were established.

During the period, the Group entered into a joint venture through the purchase of a 55% shareholding in Proparent B.V. for a total consideration of EUR15.6m. Proparent B.V. owns Ojah B.V., an alternative protein and extrusion business based in the Netherlands.

11. Events after the balance sheet date

Since the period end, the Group has proposed an interim dividend of 21.00 cent per A ordinary share (see note 6).

There have been no other significant events, outside the ordinary course of business, affecting the Group since 30 June 2018.

12. General information

These unaudited Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements for the half year ended 30 June 2018 are not full financial statements and were not reviewed by the auditors. The Board of Directors approved these Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements on 8 August 2018. The figures disclosed relating to 31 December 2017 have been derived from the consolidated financial statements which were audited, received an unqualified audit report and have been filed with the Registrar of Companies.

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

In relation to seasonality, trading profit is lower in the first half of the year due to the nature of the food business and stronger trading in December. While revenue is relatively evenly spread, margin has traditionally been higher in the second half of the year due to product mix and the timing of promotional activity. There is also a material change to the levels of working capital between December and June mainly due to the seasonal nature of the dairy and crop-based businesses.

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

FINANCIAL DEFINITIONS

   1.     Revenue 

Volume growth

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

Volume growth is an important metric as it is seen as the key driver of top-line business improvement. This is used as the key revenue metric, as Kerry operates a pass-through pricing model with its customers to cater for raw material price fluctuations. A full reconciliation to reported revenue growth is detailed in the revenue reconciliation below.

Revenue Reconciliation

 
                                                                                                              Reported 
                      Volume               Transaction   Acquisitions/          Constant       Translation     revenue 
 H1 2018              growth   Price          currency       Disposals          currency          currency      growth 
 Taste & 
  Nutrition             4.1%    0.6%              0.0%            4.6%              9.3%            (7.9%)        1.4% 
 Consumer Foods         1.3%    0.9%            (0.4%)            1.0%              2.8%            (1.6%)        1.2% 
                   ---------  ------  ----------------  --------------  ----------------  ----------------  ---------- 
 Group                  3.6%    0.6%            (0.1%)            3.9%              8.0%            (6.6%)        1.4% 
 
 H1 2017 
-----------------  ---------  ------  ----------------  --------------  ----------------  ----------------  ---------- 
 Taste & 
  Nutrition             4.2%    1.7%            (0.1%)            0.7%              6.5%              0.4%        6.9% 
 Consumer Foods         2.3%    1.9%            (1.4%)            0.0%              2.8%            (5.6%)      (2.8%) 
                   ---------  ------  ----------------  --------------  ----------------  ----------------  ---------- 
 Group                  3.8%    1.8%            (0.4%)            0.6%              5.8%            (1.0%)        4.8% 
-----------------  ---------  ------  ----------------  --------------  ----------------  ----------------  ---------- 
 
   2.     EBITDA 

EBITDA represents profit before finance income and costs, income taxes, depreciation (including impairment), intangible asset amortisation and non-trading items.

 
 
                                                               H1 2018     H1 2017 
                                                                 EUR'm       EUR'm 
------------------------------------------------------------  --------  ---------- 
 Profit after taxation attributable to owners of the parent      226.7       225.1 
 Finance income                                                  (0.2)       (0.1) 
 Finance costs                                                    34.0        34.5 
 Income taxes                                                     32.0        31.5 
 Non-trading items                                                19.9        24.8 
 Intangible asset amortisation                                    27.6        22.6 
 Depreciation (including impairment)                              66.8        68.6 
 EBITDA                                                          406.8       407.0 
------------------------------------------------------------  --------  ---------- 
 
 
   3.     Trading Profit 

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

 
 
                                   H1 2018     H1 2017 
                                     EUR'm       EUR'm 
--------------------------------  --------  ---------- 
 Operating profit                    292.5       291.0 
 Intangible asset amortisation        27.6        22.6 
 Non-trading items                    19.9        24.8 
--------------------------------  --------  ---------- 
 Trading profit                      340.0       338.4 
--------------------------------  --------  ---------- 
 Reported trading profit growth       0.5%        5.2% 
 Translation currency impact          8.2%        0.6% 
 Constant currency growth             8.7%        5.8% 
--------------------------------  --------  ---------- 
 
 
 
   4.     Trading Margin 

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

 
 
                   H1 2018     H1 2017 
                     EUR'm       EUR'm 
----------------  --------  ---------- 
 Trading profit      340.0       338.4 
 Revenue           3,225.3     3,181.3 
 Trading margin      10.5%       10.6% 
----------------  --------  ---------- 
 
 
   5.     Operating profit 

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

 
 
                      H1 2018     H1 2017 
                        EUR'm       EUR'm 
-------------------  --------  ---------- 
 Profit before tax      258.7       256.6 
 Finance income         (0.2)       (0.1) 
 Finance costs           34.0        34.5 
 Operating profit       292.5       291.0 
-------------------  --------  ---------- 
 
 
   6.     Growth in Adjusted Earnings Per Share on a Constant Currency Basis 

The growth in adjusted earnings per share on a constant currency basis is considered more reflective of the Group's underlying trading performance. Adjusted earnings is profit after taxation and attributable to owners of the parent before brand related intangible asset amortisation and non-trading items (net of related tax). These items are excluded in order to assist in the understanding of underlying earnings. A full reconciliation of adjusted earnings per share is provided in note 5 of these Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements. Constant currency eliminates the translational effect that arises from changes in foreign currency year-on-year. The growth in adjusted earnings per share on a constant currency basis is calculated by comparing current year adjusted earnings per share, to the prior year adjusted earnings per share retranslated at current year average exchange rates.

 
                                                                                                    H1 2018   H1 2017 
                                                                                                        EPS       EPS 
                                                                                                       cent      cent 
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 Basic earnings per share                                                                             128.3     127.6 
 Brand related intangible asset amortisation                                                            7.2       6.1 
 Non-trading items (net of related tax)                                                                 8.7      10.1 
 Adjusted earnings per share                                                                          144.2     143.8 
 Impact of retranslating prior year adjusted earnings per share at current year average exchange 
  rates                                                                                                   -    (11.5) 
 Adjusted earnings per share on a constant currency basis                                             144.2     132.3 
 Growth in adjusted earnings per share on a constant currency basis                                    9.0%      8.6% 
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
   7.     Free Cash Flow 

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

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

 
                                                                                H1 2018   H1 2017 
                                                                                  EUR'm     EUR'm 
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 Net cash from operating activities                                               259.8     284.3 
 Difference between movement in monthly average working capital and movement 
  in the period end working capital                                                37.3     161.0 
 Expenditure on acquisition integration and restructuring costs                    17.3      12.5 
 Purchase of assets                                                             (122.4)   (103.4) 
 Proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment                            8.3       0.9 
 Capital grants received                                                            0.2       0.1 
 Exchange translation adjustment                                                    0.1       1.8 
 Free cash flow                                                                   200.6     357.2 
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
 
   8.     Financial Ratios 

The Net debt: EBITDA and EBITDA: Net interest ratios disclosed are calculated in accordance with lenders' facility agreements using an adjusted EBITDA, adjusted finance costs (net of finance income) and an adjusted net debt value to adjust for the impact of non-trading items, acquisitions net of disposals and deferred payments in relation to acquisitions. As outlined on page 8 these ratios are calculated in accordance with lenders' facility agreements and these agreements specifically require these adjustments in the calculation.

 
                                         H1 2018   H1 2017 
                           Covenant        Times     Times 
----------------------  --------------  --------  -------- 
 Net debt: EBITDA        Maximum 3.5         1.5       1.3 
 EBITDA: Net interest    Minimum 4.75       14.8      14.9 
----------------------  --------------  --------  -------- 
 
   9.     Net Debt 

Net debt comprises borrowings and overdrafts, derivative financial instruments and cash at bank and in hand. See full reconciliation of net debt in note 8 of these Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements.

This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

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