Saputo: Financial Results for the Second Quarter of Fiscal 2007, Ended September 30, 2006
Posted on: Tuesday, 7 November 2006, 12:00 CST
Saputo Inc. (TSX: SAP) released today its financial results for the second quarter of fiscal 2007, which ended September 30, 2006.
- Net earnings totalled $58.3 million ($0.56 basic per share), up $3.1 million compared to the $55.2 million ($0.52 basic per share) for the same quarter in fiscal 2006.
- Consolidated revenues for the quarter ended September 30, 2006 totalled $994.1 million, a $36.7 million decrease compared to the $1.031 billion for the same period last year. This reduction is attributed to the US Dairy Products Sector, whose revenues decreased by $66.5 million compared to the same period last year, as a result of a lower average block market(1) per pound of cheese, the continued appreciation of the Canadian dollar and reduced sales volumes. The Canadian and Other Dairy Products Sector revenues increased by $29.3 million compared to the same period last year. Higher selling prices in the Canadian operations in accordance with the increase in the cost of milk as raw material, greater sales volume for the Argentinean operations, along with the inclusion of the German operations acquired on April 13, 2006, are the main factors responsible for the increase. Revenues from the Grocery Products Sector showed a slight increase of $0.7 million, due to the inclusion of Boulangerie Rondeau Inc. and Biscuits Rondeau Inc.
("Rondeau"), acquired on July 28, 2006, partially offset by lower revenues generated by the co-packing agreements for the manufacturing of products for the US market.
- Consolidated EBITDA(2) stood at $106.8 million, an increase of $5.3 million compared to the $101.5 million for the corresponding quarter of fiscal 2006. Higher EBITDA in the Canadian and Other Dairy Products Sector of approximately $7 million offset a decrease in EBITDA of approximately $2 million in the US Dairy Products Sector. The Grocery Products Sector EBITDA increased by $0.3 million compared to the same quarter last year.
(1) "Average block market" is the average daily price of a 40 pound block of Cheddar traded on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME), used as the base price for the cheese.
(2) Measurement of results not in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles
The Company assesses its financial performance based on its EBITDA, this being earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. EBITDA is not a measurement of performance as defined by generally accepted accounting principles in Canada, and consequently may not be comparable to similar measurements presented by other companies.
- EBITDA for the Canadian and Other Dairy Products Sector totalled $76.8 million, an increase of 10.2% compared to $69.7 million for the same period last year. This increase is mainly due to the benefit of rationalization activities completed in prior years, better efficiencies generated in operations, and synergies derived from the merger of the former Milk and Cheese divisions. During the second quarter of fiscal 2007, the by-product market price positively impacted EBITDA by approximately $1 million. In Argentina, EBITDA continued to show a steady growth, although negatively affected by the appreciation of the Canadian dollar and costs incurred in relation to the export tax. In August 2006, the Argentinean government reduced the export tax rates close to the levels applicable prior to the July 2005 increase.
- EBITDA for the US Dairy Products Sector totalled $22.9 million, resulting in a $2.1 million or 8.4% decrease, compared to $25.0 million for the same period last year. This decrease is due to a lower average block market per pound of cheese, the appreciation of the Canadian dollar, and the continued increase in fuel, ingredients and other costs. The relationship between the average block market per pound of cheese and the cost of milk as raw material improved slightly compared to the same period last year. Efforts with respect to improved operational efficiencies, increased selling prices, and the reduction of the cost associated with milk handling increased the EBITDA by approximately $4 million in the quarter compared to the same period last year, despite the closure of the Peru, Indiana facility and lower sales volumes. The California Department of Agriculture's decision announced last July to reduce the class 4b milk price became effective on November 1, 2006.
- EBITDA for the Grocery Products Sector stood at $7.1 million, an increase of $0.3 million compared to the same quarter last year due mainly to a reduction in expenses related to marketing activities.
- Cash generated by operating activities before changes in non-cash working capital items amounted to $77.9 million, an increase of $3.5 million compared to $74.4 million for the same period last year.
- In the second quarter, the Company used $12.2 million for the acquisition of the activities of Rondeau, a fresh tarts and fresh cookies manufacturer and distributor operating mainly in the province of Quebec, completed on July 28, 2006. The Company added $24.1 million in fixed assets during the quarter. The Company also issued shares for a cash consideration of $3.3 million as part of the Stock Option Plan and purchased shares for cancellation for an amount of $8.5 million as part of the normal course issuer bid.
For more information on the results of the second quarter of fiscal 2007, please read the attached interim report for the quarter ended September 30, 2006, which forms an integral part of this press release.
Dividends
The Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.20 per share, payable on December 22, 2006 to shareholders of record on December 11, 2006. This dividend relates to the quarter ended September 30, 2006.
Normal Course Issuer Bid
The Company has the intention to purchase by way of a normal course issuer bid (the "Bid"), for cancellation purposes, some of its common shares through the facilities of the Toronto Stock Exchange, beginning on November 13, 2006.
Under the Bid, the Company may repurchase for cancellation up to 5,179,304 common shares. This represents 5% of its 103,586,089 issued and outstanding common shares as of October 31, 2006. These purchases will be made in accordance with applicable regulations over a maximum period of 12 months beginning on November 13, 2006 and ending on November 12, 2007. The Company will not purchase greater than 2% of the issued and outstanding common shares in any 30-day period. The consideration, which will be in cash, that the Company will pay for any common shares acquired by it under the Bid will be the market price of such common shares at the time of acquisition. Within the previous twelve months, Saputo purchased, for cancellation purposes, by way of a normal course issuer bid established in November 2005, 2,029,200 of its common shares at an average price of $34.9523 per share.
The Company believes that the purchase of its own shares may, in appropriate circumstances, be a responsible investment of funds on hand.
Conference Call
A conference call to discuss the second quarter results of fiscal 2007 will be held on Tuesday, November 7, 2006 at 2:00 PM, Eastern time. To participate in the conference call, dial 1 800 525 6384. To ensure your participation, please dial in approximately five minutes before the call.
To listen to this call on the web, please enter
http://events.onlinebroadcasting.com/saputo/110706/index.php in your web browser.
For those unable to participate, an instant replay will be available until midnight, Tuesday, November 14, 2006. To access the replay dial 1 800 395 0403, ID number 9668277. A replay of the conference call will also be available on the Company's web site at www.saputo.com.
About Saputo
Always with an expert hand, Saputo transforms into success the passion and initiative of the 8,500 dedicated men and women who work in its 46 plants around the world. Combining tradition and innovation, the Company produces, commercializes and distributes the highest quality products under such well-known brands as Saputo, Alexis de Portneuf, Armstrong, Baxter, Dairyland, De Lucia, Dragone, DuVillage de Warwick, Frigo, Kingsey, La Paulina, Nutrilait, Princesse, Ricrem, Sir Laurier d'Arthabaska, Stella, Treasure Cave, Big Daddy, HOP&GO!, Rondeau and Vachon. As one of the top twenty dairy processors in the world, the largest dairy processor in Canada, among the top five cheese producers in the United States, the third largest dairy processor in Argentina and the largest snack-cake manufacturer in Canada, Saputo renews its commitment to excellence and growth every day. Saputo Inc. is a public company whose shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol SAP. Visit our Web site at www.saputo.com.
Message to Shareholders
We are pleased to present the results for the second quarter of fiscal 2007, which ended on September 30, 2006.
Net earnings for the quarter totalled $58.3 million, up $3.1 million or 5.6% compared to $55.2 million for the same quarter last year.
Earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA(3)) amounted to $106.8 million, an increase of $5.3 million or 5.2% compared to $101.5 million for the corresponding period last year. The EBITDA of our Canadian and Other Dairy Products Sector increased by $7.1 million over the same quarter last year. Savings from increased efficiencies and from rationalization activities undertaken in prior years in our Canadian operations, a more favourable by-product market, along with increased sales volumes from our Argentinean operations were the main factors behind this increase. The US Dairy Products Sector EBITDA decreased by $2.1 million compared to the same quarter last year. A lower average block market(4) per pound of cheese and the appreciation of the Canadian dollar contributed to the reduction in EBITDA. These factors offset the positive effects of measures undertaken by the Company to improve its US EBITDA to counteract adverse market conditions. The EBITDA of our Grocery Products Sector increased by $0.3 million compared to the same quarter last year. Decreased marketing expenditures and the inclusion of Boulangerie Rondeau Inc. and Biscuits Rondeau Inc. ("Rondeau") acquired on July 28, 2006, offset lower EBITDA resulting from lower revenues generated by our co-packing agreements for the manufacturing of products for the US market in comparison to the same quarter last year.
Revenues for the second quarter ended September 30, 2006 amounted to $994.1 million, a decrease of $36.7 million or 3.6% compared to $1.031 billion for the same period last year. This reduction is attributed to our US Dairy Products Sector, whose revenues decreased by $66.5 million compared to the same period last year. A lower average block market per pound of cheese, the appreciation of the Canadian dollar, and lower sales volumes were the main factors contributing to the reduced revenues. Revenues from our Canadian and Other Dairy Products Sector increased by $29.3 million in comparison to the corresponding period last year. Higher selling prices in our Canadian operations in accordance with the increase in the cost of milk as raw material, increased sales volumes from our Argentinean operations, and the inclusion of our German operations, acquired on April 13, 2006, were the main factors responsible for this increase. These factors offset the negative effect of the appreciation of the Canadian dollar on the revenues from our Argentinean operations. Revenues from our Grocery Products Sector increased by $0.7 million in comparison to the same period last year. Additional revenues from the inclusion of Rondeau, acquired on July 28, 2006, offset reduced revenues generated by our co-packing agreements for the manufacturing of products for the US market.
(3) Measurement of results not in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles
The Company assesses its financial performance based on its EBITDA, this being earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. EBITDA is not a measurement of performance as defined by generally accepted accounting principles in Canada, and consequently may not be comparable to similar measurements presented by other companies.
(4) "Average block market" is the average daily price of a 40 pound block of Cheddar traded on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME), used as the base price for the cheese.
Outlook(5)
The Canadian market is relatively stable in terms of growth in consumption, therefore, our Dairy Products Division (Canada) has to rely on innovation and the enhancement of product sub-categories to fuel its development. Our efforts in this regard are yielding positive results as we introduce new and innovative products to the market in many of our categories, resulting in sales volume growth. For example, our Milk2Go brand has now become the number-one brand in Canada in the single-serve flavoured milk category. We continue to invest in the specialty cheese category, in order to distinguish ourselves from the competition as well as to seize opportunities linked to this growing category.
In August 2006, the Argentinean government reviewed its position with regard to the export tax, resulting in a reduction of the export tax rate close to the levels applicable prior to the July 2005 increase. This should be beneficial for the entire dairy industry in Argentina. Our Argentinean division also continues to take advantage of opportunities that exist on the international and national markets, and launches new marketing campaigns to promote the La Paulina brand on the domestic market.
In Germany, we are pursuing the integration of the activities of Spezialitaten-Kaserei De Lucia GmbH, acquired on April 13, 2006. We are currently developing new products to further increase our presence in the European Union. We are also exploring the possibility for our other dairy divisions to manufacture similar products for their own market. We are satisfied with the results obtained thus far.
In the United States, we have collaborated with the US dairy industry in appeals for revisions in the formulas that determine the manufacturing milk price, which would allow processors a margin that would be close to historical levels experienced by the industry. The California Department of Agriculture's decision announced last July to reduce the class 4b milk price effective October 1, 2006 was delayed by thirty days, and became effective on November 1, 2006. In September 2006, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) reconvened the public hearings, which originally commenced in January 2006. The hearing decision is expected at the beginning of calendar 2007. At the same time, we continue to monitor our operations in an effort to identify other opportunities that would generate better returns. The various measures implemented in past quarters aimed at mitigating the impact of the uncontrollable aspects of the market are starting to bear fruit.
The Bakery Division pursues its growth and continues to show good results. As innovation and seasonality are key in this category, many initiatives were carried out to increase our product offering during the summer and back-to-school periods. We will continue on this path in the next quarters. The packaging of some of our products was also revamped to become more appealing to a larger customer base. The integration of the activities of Rondeau, acquired on July 28, 2006, is progressing and we are focusing our efforts on increasing the market penetration of Rondeau's products where they are less present, such as in Ontario and in the Atlantic provinces.
Overall, we are satisfied with the results obtained thus far this fiscal year, especially with our efforts to mitigate the unfavourable market conditions in the US. We are committed to return to our historical level of profitability. As always, we are also exploring acquisition opportunities in order to grow and create additional value for our shareholders.
Dividends
The Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.20 per share, payable on December 22, 2006, to shareholders of record on December 11, 2006. This dividend relates to the quarter ended September 30, 2006.
(5) We refer you to the cautionary statement regarding forward-looking information set forth below under "Management Analysis."
Normal Course Issuer Bid
The Company has the intention to purchase by way of a normal course issuer bid (the "Bid"), for cancellation purposes, up to a maximum of 5,179,304 common shares, representing 5% of its 103,586,089 issued and outstanding common shares as of October 31, 2006. These purchases will be made in accordance with applicable regulations over a maximum period of 12 months beginning on November 13, 2006 and ending on November 12, 2007. The consideration that the Company will pay, which will be in cash, for any common shares acquired by it under the Bid will be the market price of such common shares at the time of acquisition. The Company believes that the purchase of its own shares may, in appropriate circumstances, be a responsible investment of funds on hand.
Within the previous twelve months, Saputo purchased, for cancellation purposes, by way of a normal course issuer bid established in November 2005, 2,029,200 of its common shares, for a total consideration of approximately $71 million.
Management's Analysis
The goal of this management report is to analyze the results of and the financial position for the quarter and six-month period ended September 30, 2006. It should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes for the three- and six-month periods ended September 30, 2006 and 2005, and with the fiscal 2006 annual report. The Company's accounting policies are in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants. All dollar amounts are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated. This report takes into account material elements between September 30, 2006 and November 7, 2006, the date of this report, on which it was approved by the Board of Directors of Saputo Inc. (the "Company" or "Saputo"). Additional information about the Company, including the Annual Information Form for the year ended March 31, 2006, can be obtained on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
CAUTION REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This report, including the "Outlook" section, contains forward-looking information within the meaning of securities laws. These statements are based on our current assumptions, expectations and estimates, regarding projected revenues and expenses, the Canadian, US, Argentinean, and German economic environments, our ability to attract and retain clients and consumers, our operating costs and raw materials and energy supplies which are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from the conclusion, forecast or projection stated in such forward-looking information. As a result, we cannot guarantee that any forward-looking statements will materialize. Assumptions, expectations and estimates made in the preparation of forward-looking statements and risks that could cause our actual results to differ materially from our current expectations are discussed throughout this MD&A and in our most recently filed annual report which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Forward-looking information contained in this report including the "Outlook" section, is based on management's current estimates, expectations and assumptions, which management believes are reasonable as of the current date. You should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. While we may elect to, we are under no obligation and do not undertake to update this information at any particular time.
Operating Results
Consolidated revenues for the quarter ended September 30, 2006 totalled $994.1 million, a $36.7 million or 3.6% decrease compared to the $1.031 billion for the corresponding period last year. The decrease is attributed to our US Dairy Products Sector, whose revenues were $66.5 million lower compared to the same period last year. A lower average block market per pound of cheese of US$1.22 for the current quarter compared to US$1.48 for the same quarter last year, the appreciation of the Canadian dollar, and reduced sales volumes were the major contributors to the revenue decrease in this sector. Revenues from our Canadian and Other Dairy Products Sector increased by $29.3 million compared to the same period last year. Higher selling prices in our Canadian operations in accordance with the increase in the cost of milk as raw material, increased sales volumes in our Argentinean operations, and the inclusion of our German operations, acquired on April 13, 2006, were the major factors increasing revenues in our Canadian and Other Dairy Products Sector. Revenues from our Grocery Products Sector showed a slight increase of $0.7 million, due to the inclusion of Rondeau, acquired on July 28, 2006, and partially offset by the lower revenues generated by our co-packing agreements for the manufacturing of products for the US market.
For the six-month period ended September 30, 2006, revenues decreased by $62.2 million to $1.975 billion from $2.037 billion for the corresponding period last year. Our US Dairy Products Sector revenues decreased by approximately $139 million due to a lower average block market per pound of cheese, the appreciation of the Canadian dollar and lower sales volumes. The revenues from our Canadian and Other Dairy Products Sector increased by approximately $75 million due mainly to higher selling prices, sales volume increases, and the inclusion of our German operations, acquired on April 13, 2006. These increases offset the negative effects of the appreciation of the Canadian dollar on our Argentinean revenues. Revenues from our Grocery Products Sector increased by approximately $2 million, due mainly to the inclusion of Rondeau, acquired on July 28, 2006.
Consolidated earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA), for the second quarter of fiscal 2007 amounted to $106.8 million, an increase of $5.3 million or 5.2% compared to $101.5 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2006. This increase is mostly attributed to our Canadian and Other Dairy Products Sector, whose EBITDA increased by approximately $7 million compared to the same quarter last year. Savings from increased efficiencies and from rationalization activities undertaken in prior years in our Canadian operations, a more favourable by-product market, along with increased sales volumes from our Argentinean operations, were the main factors behind this increase. The EBITDA of our US Dairy Products Sector decreased by approximately $2 million compared to the same quarter last year. A lower average block market per pound of cheese and the appreciation of the Canadian dollar negatively affected the EBITDA of the US Dairy Products Sector. These factors offset the positive effects of measures undertaken by the Company to improve its US EBITDA to counteract adverse market conditions. The EBITDA of our Grocery Products Sector increased by $0.3 million compared to the corresponding period last year. Decreased marketing expenditures and the inclusion of Rondeau, acquired on July 28, 2006, offset lower EBITDA resulting from reduced revenues generated by our co-packing agreements for the manufacturing of products for the US market in comparison to the same quarter last year.
For the six-month period ended September 30, 2006, EBITDA totalled $199.8 million, a $1.6 million increase over the $198.2 million for the same period last year. Increased EBITDA of approximately $13 million from our Canadian and Other Dairy Products Sector has essentially been offset by a decreased EBITDA of approximately the same amount from our US Dairy Products Sector. EBITDA from our Grocery Products Sector has increased by approximately $2 million since the beginning of fiscal 2007 in comparison to the corresponding period in fiscal 2006.
Other Consolidated Results Items
Depreciation expense for the second quarter of fiscal 2007 stood at $17.7 million, stable compared to the corresponding quarter last year. For the six-month period ended September 30, 2006, depreciation expense totalled $35.8 million, relatively unchanged in comparison to the $35.6 million for the same period last year. In both cases, increased depreciation due to capital investments undertaken in prior years in our Canadian and Other Dairy Products Sector, mainly our Argentinean operations, was offset by the appreciation of the Canadian dollar, which reduced the depreciation expense from our US and Argentinean operations.
Net interest expense decreased by $1.5 million to $5.0 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2006 and decreased by $2.8 million to $10.0 million for the six-month period ended September 30, 2006. In both cases, the decrease is attributed to additional interest revenue generated from excess cash on hand and to the appreciation of the Canadian dollar, which reduced the interest expense on our US dollar debt.
Income taxes for the second quarter of fiscal 2007 totalled $25.9 million, reflecting an effective tax rate of 30.7%, compared to an effective tax rate of 28.6% for the same quarter last year. Income taxes for the six-month period ended September 30, 2006, totalled $42.5 million, reflecting an effective tax rate of 27.6%, compared to an effective tax rate of 27.0% for the same period last year. During the first quarter of fiscal 2007, the Company benefited from a one-time tax reduction of approximately $4 million to adjust future tax balances, due to a reduction in Canadian federal tax rates. Notwithstanding the one-time benefit, our effective tax rate for the six-month period ended September 30, 2006 would be 30.2% . Our income tax rate varies and could increase or decrease based on the amount of taxable income derived and from which source, any amendments to tax laws and income tax rates and changes in assumptions and estimates used for tax assets and liabilities by the Company and its affiliates.
Net earnings reached $58.3 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2006 compared to $55.2 million for the same quarter last year. For the six-month period ended September 30, 2006 net earnings totalled $111.6 million compared to $109.4 million for the corresponding period last year. The increase in year-to-date net earnings stems essentially from our second quarter results.
Cash and Financial Resources
For the three-month period ended September 30, 2006, cash generated by operating activities before changes in non-cash working capital items amounted to $77.9 million, an increase of $3.5 million in comparison to the $74.4 million for the corresponding period last year. Since the beginning of the fiscal year, this figure amounted to $145.9 million, a decrease of $1.9 million in comparison to the $147.8 million for the same period last year. Non-cash working capital items generated $19.2 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2007, compared to $13.6 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2006. For the six-month period ended September 30, 2006, non-cash working capital items generated $20.2 million, compared to $0.8 million for the same period last year. The difference is mainly attributed to decreased inventories in our Canadian cheese activities.
During the quarter, investing activities used $12.2 million for the acquisition of the activities of Rondeau. Since the beginning of the fiscal year, $19.1 million were invested for business acquisitions. The Company added $24.1 million and $41.7 million in fixed assets for the three- and six-month periods ended September 30, 2006. We maintain our annual forecast of $76 million for additions to fixed assets.
Financing activities for the second quarter of fiscal 2007 consisted of an increase in bank loans of $2.9 million, the issuance of shares for a cash consideration of $3.3 million, as part of the Stock Option Plan, the purchase of share capital totalling $8.5 million in accordance with the normal course issuer bid, and the payment of $39.4 million in dividends.
As at September 30, 2006, working capital stood at $434.7 million, compared to $423.6 million as at March 31, 2006.
As at September 30, 2006 our interest bearing debt-to-equity ratio stood at 0.13, an improvement from the 0.17 as at March 31, 2006.
The Company currently has available bank credit facilities of approximately $325 million, $41.2 million of which are drawn, essentially for its Argentinean operations. The Company also has $128.1 million of cash and cash equivalents. Should the need arise, the Company can make additional financing arrangements to pursue growth through acquisitions.
Balance Sheet
With regard to balance sheet items as at September 30, 2006 that varied compared to those as at March 31, 2006, we should note that the variation in most items is due to the acquisition of the activities of Spezialitaten-Kaserei De Lucia GmbH, completed on April 13, 2006 and the acquisition of the activities of Rondeau, completed on July 28, 2006. These increases have been offset by the continued appreciation of the Canadian dollar. From an operational perspective, inventories decreased by approximately $21 million mainly related to our Canadian cheese operations due to higher byproduct sales and increased cheese sales volume in comparison to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006. The Company's total assets stood at $2.275 billion as at September 30, 2006, compared to $2.254 billion as at March 31, 2006.
Share Capital Information
Share capital authorized by the Company is comprised of an unlimited number of common and preferred shares. The common shares are voting and participating. The preferred shares can be issued in one or more series, and the terms and privileges of each series must be determined at the time of their creation.
Authorized Issued as at Issued as at September 30, 2006 October 31, 2006 --------------------------------------------------------------- Common shares Unlimited 103,569,738 103,586,089 Preferred shares Unlimited None None Stock options 5,531,697 5,510,632
Follow-up on Certain Specific Items of the Analysis
For an analysis of off-balance sheet arrangements, guarantees, contractual obligations, related party transactions, accounting standards, critical accounting policies and use of accounting estimates as well as risks and uncertainties, we encourage you to consult the comments provided in the 2006 annual report on pages 30 to 35 of the management's analysis, since there were no notable changes during the first two quarters of fiscal 2007.
Information by Sector
Canadian and Other Dairy Products Sector
This sector consists of our Dairy Products Division (Canada), our Dairy Products Division (Argentina), as well as our Dairy Products Division (Germany), acquired on April 13, 2006.
For the quarter ended September 30, 2006, revenues from the Canadian and Other Dairy Products Sector amounted to $695.2 million, an increase of $29.3 million in comparison to the $665.9 million for the same period last year. Higher selling prices in our Canadian operations, in accordance with the increase in the cost of milk as raw material, and the inclusion of our German operations, acquired on April 13, 2006, partly explain the increased revenues in our Canadian and Other Dairy Products Sector. Sales volumes from our Canadian cheese and fluid milk activities have remained relatively stable in comparison to the same period last year. Increased sales volumes derived from the Canadian industrial segment, due to higher by-product sales volumes, offset lower sales volumes from our Canadian retail segment. Sales volumes increases from our Argentinean operations in comparison to the same period last year also explain the increased revenues in our Canadian and Other Dairy Products Sector. The appreciation of the Canadian dollar continues to negatively affect revenues from our Argentinean operations.
With regard to our newly acquired Dairy Products Division (Germany), revenues continue to be in line with pre-acquisition expectations.
Since the beginning of the fiscal year, revenues from our Canadian and Other Dairy Products Sector amounted to $1.393 billion, an increase of $74.5 million in comparison to the $1.319 billion for the same period last year. The increase is attributed to higher selling prices, in accordance with the increase in the cost of milk as raw material, higher sales volumes in our Canadian fluid milk and Argentinean activities, higher by-product sales volumes in our Canadian operations, and incremental revenues from our Canadian specialty cheese operations and our Dairy Product Division (Germany).
For the quarter ended September 30, 2006, EBITDA for the Canadian and Other Dairy Products Sector totalled $76.8 million, an increase of $7.1 million or 10.2% compared to the $69.7 million for the corresponding quarter last year. The EBITDA margin for the current quarter increased to 11.1% in comparison to 10.5% for the same quarter last year.
Our Dairy Products Division (Canada) performed well in comparison to the same quarter last year due to the following factors. Firstly, additional EBITDA was derived from better efficiencies, which we constantly strive to achieve. Secondly, benefits derived from rationalization activities completed in prior years, as well as synergies derived from the merger of our two former Milk and Cheese divisions, have also contributed to increase the EBITDA of this division. During the second quarter of fiscal 2007, the by-product market price had a positive impact on the division's EBITDA of approximately $1 million compared to the same period last year.
The EBITDA of our Dairy Products Division (Argentina) continues to show steady growth, due to increased sales volumes and the benefits derived from capital investments completed in prior years. These factors offset the erosion of EBITDA caused by the appreciation of the Canadian dollar, along with increased costs incurred in relation to the export tax. In August 2006, the Argentinean government reduced the export tax rates close to the levels applicable prior to the July 2005 increase.
Although the activities from our Dairy Products Division (Germany) increased our revenues, they had a minimal effect on our EBITDA.
Since the beginning of the fiscal year, the EBITDA totalled $148.3 million, an increase of $12.8 million or 9.4%, in comparison to the $135.5 million for the same period last year. The EBITDA margin increased from 10.3% last year to 10.6% for the current fiscal year.
US Dairy Products Sector
Revenues for the US Dairy Products Sector totalled $255.4 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2006, representing a $66.5 million or 20.7% decrease from the $321.9 million posted for the same period one year earlier. This decrease is mainly attributed to the average block market per pound of cheese in the second quarter of fiscal 2007 which was US$0.26 lower compared to the same period last year, trimming revenues by approximately $32 million. The appreciation of the Canadian dollar eroded revenues by approximately $19 million. Our sales volumes for the quarter decreased by 8.1%, primarily due to the closure of our Peru, Indiana facility on May 15, 2006, as a result of a Company decision aimed at improving our position in response to current market volatility. The retail and foodservice segments enjoyed a slight increase in sales volumes due to higher sales to existing customers.
Since the beginning of the fiscal year, revenues totalled $498.0 million, a decrease of $139.1 million or 21.8% compared to the same period a year ago. The decrease in the average block market per pound of cheese lowered revenues by approximately $76 million, and the appreciation of the Canadian dollar further eroded revenues by approximately $44 million. Sales volumes since the beginning of the fiscal year have decreased by 5.3% due almost entirely to the closure of the Peru, Indiana facility.
For the quarter ended September 30, 2006, EBITDA totalled $22.9 million, resulting in a $2.1 million or 8.4% decrease compared to $25.0 million for the same period last year. During the second quarter of fiscal 2007, the average block market per pound of cheese was US$0.26 lower than the same period last year, creating a negative effect on the absorption of fixed costs. The relationship between the average block market per pound of cheese and the cost of milk as raw material improved slightly when compared to the same period last year. Despite the declining block market, the realization of inventories was more favourable in the current quarter compared to the same period last year. The change in the block market between the first and second quarters of the current year increased by US$0.03 compared to a decrease of US$0.03 in the previous year. These combined factors had a negative impact of approximately $1.4 million on EBITDA. Efforts with respect to improved operational efficiencies, increased selling prices, and the reduction of the cost associated with milk handling increased the EBITDA by approximately $4 million in the quarter compared to the same period last year, despite the closure of our Peru, Indiana facility, and the reduction of our sales volumes. The appreciation of the Canadian dollar eroded approximately $1.5 million in EBITDA, while increased energy, packaging and ingredients costs resulted in approximately $2.4 million of additional expenses.
Since the beginning of the fiscal year, EBITDA decreased by $12.7 million. Negative market factors created a shortfall of approximately $7.4 million. The appreciation of the Canadian dollar eroded approximately $3.0 million, rationalization costs for the closure of our Peru, Indiana facility amounted to approximately $1.3 million, while increased energy, packaging and ingredients costs resulted in approximately $3.8 million of additional expenses.
Grocery Products Sector
Revenues for the Grocery Products Sector totalled $43.6 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2006, an increase of $0.7 million as compared to the corresponding quarter last year. Canadian snack-cake sales volumes increased slightly during the quarter. Our sales volumes from our co-packing agreements for the manufacturing of products for the US market showed a decrease compared to the same period last year. This was fully offset by additional sales generated by Rondeau, acquired on July 28, 2006. During the second quarter, the division slightly increased its market share in Canada despite higher competition.
Since the beginning of the fiscal year, revenues for our Grocery Products Sector totalled $84.1 million, a 2.9% increase as compared to the same period last year. This increase is mainly attributable to the inclusion of Rondeau.
EBITDA for the Grocery Products Sector amounted to $7.1 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2007, an increase of $0.3 million as compared to the same period last year. EBITDA margin went from 15.8% last year to 16.4% for the same period this year. During the second quarter of fiscal 2007, the sector incurred additional expenses in raw material, and lowered its marketing expense, having a combined positive effect on EBITDA of approximately $1 million compared to the same period last year. Lower revenues from our co-packing agreements for the manufacturing of products for the US market reduced EBITDA. Finally, Rondeau generated EBITDA during the quarter but at a lower EBITDA margin compared to the rest of the sector.
Since the beginning of fiscal 2007, EBITDA totalled $14.0 million, a $1.7 million increase as compared to the same period last year. During the same period, the division incurred $0.9 million of additional expenses in raw material and reduced its marketing investment on its HOP&GO! brand by approximately $2.4 million.
(signed)
Lino Saputo, Chairman of the Board
(signed)
Lino Saputo, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer
November 7, 2006
NOTICE
The consolidated financial statements of Saputo Inc. for the three- and six-month periodsended September 30, 2006 and 2005 have
not been reviewed by an external auditor.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS (in thousands of dollars, except per share amounts) (unaudited) For the three-month For the six-month periods ended periods ended September 30 ended September 30 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Revenues $994,145 $1,030,785 $1,975,287 $2,037,493 Cost of sales, selling and administrative expenses 887,378 929,269 1,775,443 1,839,303 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Earnings before interest, depreciation and income taxes 106,767 101,516 199,844 198,190 Depreciation of fixed assets 17,652 17,659 35,781 35,563 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Operating income 89,115 83,857 164,063 162,627 Interest on long-term debt 5,739 6,158 11,325 12,502 Other interest, net (760) 354 (1,305) 353 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Earnings before income taxes 84,136 77,345 154,043 149,772 Income taxes 25,850 22,134 42,493 40,407 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Net earnings $58,286 $55,211 $111,550 $109,365 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Earnings per share (Note 6) Net earnings Basic $0.56 $0.52 $1.07 $1.04 Diluted $0.56 $0.52 $1.07 $1.03 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF RETAINED EARNINGS (in thousands of dollars) (unaudited) For the six-month periods ended September 30 2006 2005 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Retained earnings, beginning of period $971,131 $884,054 Net earnings 111,550 109,365 Dividends (39,369) (34,630) Excess of purchase price of share capital over carrying value (28,404) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Retained earnings, end of period $1,014,908 $958,789 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ SEGMENTED INFORMATION (in thousands of dollars) (unaudited) For the three-month For the six-month periods ended periods ended September 30 ended September 30 2006 2005 2006 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Revenues Dairy Products Canada and Other $695,162 $665,913 $1,393,246 $1,318,714 United States 255,421 321,925 497,955 637,101 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 950,583 987,838 1,891,201 1,955,815 Grocery Products 43,562 42,947 84,086 81,678 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- $994,145 $1,030,785 $1,975,287 $2,037,493 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Earnings before interest, depreciation and income taxes Dairy Products Canada and Other $76,790 $69,746 $148,253 $135,514 United States 22,853 25,006 37,607 50,353 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 99,643 94,752 185,860 185,867 Grocery Products 7,124 6,764 13,984 12,323 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- $106,767 $101,516 $199,844 $198,190 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Depreciation of fixed assets Dairy Products Canada and Other $8,969 $8,692 $18,066 $17,378 United States 7,054 7,529 14,512 15,309 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 16,023 16,221 32,578 32,687 Grocery Products 1,629 1,438 3,203 2,876 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- $17,652 $17,659 $35,781 $35,563 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Operating income Dairy Products Canada and Other $67,821 $61,054 $130,187 $118,136 United States 15,799 17,477 23,095 35,044 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 83,620 78,531 153,282 153,180 Grocery Products 5,495 5,326 10,781 9,447 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------- $89,115 $83,857 $164,063 $162,627 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interest 4,979 6,512 10,020 12,855 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Earnings before income taxes 84,136 77,345 154,043 149,772 Income taxes 25,850 22,134 42,493 40,407 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net earnings $58,286 $55,211 $111,550 $109,365 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------- CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (in thousands of dollars) (unaudited) For the three-month For the six-month periods ended periods ended September 30 ended September 30 2006 2005 2006 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cash flows related to the following activities: Operating Net earnings $58,286 $55,211 $111,550 $109,365 Items not affecting cash Stock based compensation 1,967 2,059 4,002 4,041 Depreciation of fixed assets 17,652 17,659 35,781 35,563 Loss (gain) on disposal of fixed assets 11 (422) (5) (417) Future income taxes 385 1,014 (4,601) 1,792 Funding of employee plans in excess of costs (409) (1,075) (818) (2,508) ------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 77,892 74,446 145,909 147,836 Changes in non-cash operating working capital items 19,200 13,623 20,151 757 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 97,092 88,069 166,060 148,593 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Investing Business acquisitions (Note 9) (11,472) - (19,085) (83,527) Additions to fixed assets (24,051) (20,234) (41,693) (34,855) Proceeds on disposals of fixed assets 291 560 322 649 Other assets (2,358) 120 (4,070) 448 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------- (37,590) (19,554) (64,526) (117,285) ------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Financing Bank loans 2,860 8,921 (140) 10,427 Issuance of share capital 3,277 3,183 8,204 11,510 Repurchase of share capital (8,456) - (32,947) - Dividends (39,369) (34,630) (39,369) (34,630) ------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------- (41,688) (22,526) (64,252) (12,693) ------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Increase in cash and cash equivalents 17,814 45,989 37,282 18,615 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents 435 (2,280) (683) (918) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 109,883 15,465 91,533 41,477 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $128,132 $59,174 $128,132 $59,174 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Supplemental information Interest paid $724 $322 $10,217 $13,017 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Income taxes paid $19,442 $3,081 $40,189 $9,304 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------- CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (in thousands of dollars) September 30, 2006 March 31, 2006 (unaudited) (audited) --------------------------------------------------------------------------- ASSETS Current assets Cash and cash equivalents $128,132 $91,533 Receivables 313,618 302,112 Inventories 432,251 453,414 Income taxes 6,266 6,736 Future income taxes 11,537 12,098 Prepaid expenses and other assets 17,386 25,979 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 909,190 891,872 Portfolio investment 42,991 42,991 Fixed assets (Note 3) 677,924 674,695 Goodwill 542,225 544,472 Trademarks 29,607 30,589 Other assets (Note 4) 71,030 67,664 Future income taxes 1,696 1,650 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- $2,274,663 $2,253,933 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------- LIABILITIES Current liabilities Bank loans $41,247 $41,541 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 320,698 318,239 Income taxes 78,667 73,087 Future income taxes 364 369 Current portion of long-term debt 33,531 35,013 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 474,507 468,249 Long-term debt 245,940 256,833 Other liabilities 15,867 16,623 Future income taxes 103,380 109,685 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 839,694 851,390 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Share capital (Note 7) 499,363 494,250 Contributed surplus (Note 8) 16,978 14,428 Retained earnings 1,014,908 971,131 Foreign currency translation adjustment (96,280) (77,266) --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1,434,969 1,402,543 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- $2,274,663 $2,253,933 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(tabular amounts are in thousands of dollars except information on options) (unaudited)
1 - Accounting Policies
The unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles and applied in the same manner as the most recently audited financial statements. The unaudited consolidated financial statements do not include all the information and notes required according to generally accepted accounting principles for annual financial statements, and should therefore be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and the notes included in the Company's annual report for the year ended March 31, 2006.
2 - Foreign Currency Translation
The balance sheet accounts of the self-sustaining companies operating in the United States, Argentina and Germany are translated into Canadian dollars using the exchange rates at the balance sheet dates. Statement of earnings accounts are translated into Canadian dollars using the average monthly exchange rates in effect during the periods. The foreign currency translation adjustment account presented in shareholders' equity represents accumulated foreign currency gains or losses on the Company's net investments in self-sustaining companies operating in the United States, Argentina and Germany. The change in the foreign currency translation account for the period principally resulted from the increase in value of the Canadian dollar as compared to the US dollar.
Foreign currency accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries are translated using the exchange rates at the balance sheet date for monetary assets and liabilities and the prevailing exchange rates at the time of transactions for income and expenses. Gains or losses resulting from this translation are included in the statement of earnings.
For the three-month periods For the six-month periods ended September 30 ended September 30 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Foreign exchange gain $293 $175 $494 $595 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 - Fixed Assets September 30, 2006 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Accumulated Net book Cost depreciation value ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Land $27,980 $- $27,980 Buildings 264,008 65,560 198,448 Furniture, machinery and equipment 793,623 354,805 438,818 Rolling stock 13,515 7,047 6,468 Held for sale 6,210 - 6,210 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ $1,105,336 $427,412 $677,924 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ March 31, 2006 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Accumulated Net book Cost depreciation value ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Land $27,084 $- $27,084 Buildings 249,980 57,799 192,181 Furniture, machinery and equipment 777,635 335,428 442,207 Rolling stock 12,314 6,323 5,991 Held for sale 7,232 - 7,232 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ $1,074,245 $399,550 $674,695 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Fixed assets held for sale represent mainly machinery, equipment and buildings of the Canadian and US dairy products sectors that will be disposed of as a result of certain plant closures. The net book value of fixed assets under construction, that are not being amortized, amounts to $29,222,000 as at September 30, 2006 ($41,465,000 as at March 31, 2006), and consists mainly of machinery and equipment. 4 - Other Assets September 30, 2006 March 31, 2006 ---------------------------------------------------------------- Net accrued pension plan asset $52,492 $50,606 Taxes receivable 11,423 9,370 Other 7,115 7,688 ---------------------------------------------------------------- $71,030 $67,664 ---------------------------------------------------------------- 5 - Employee Pension and Other Benefit Plans The Company provides defined benefit and defined contribution pension plans as well as other benefit plans such as health insurance, life insurance and dental plans to eligible employees and retired employees. Pension and other benefit plan obligations are affected by factors such as interest rates, adjustments arising from plan amendments, changes in assumptions and experience gains or losses. The costs are based on a measurement of the pension and other benefit plan obligations and the pension fund assets. Total benefit costs for the three-month and six-month periods ended September 30 are as follows: For the three-month periods For the six-month periods ended September 30 ended September 30 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Pension plans $4,832 $3,386 $9,680 $6,910 Other benefit plans 364 128 722 740 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- $5,196 $3,514 $10,402 $7,650 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 - Earnings Per Share For the three-month periods For the six-month periods ended September 30 ended September 30 2006 2005 2006 2005 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net earnings $58,286 $55,211 $111,550 $109,365 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Weighted average number of common shares outstanding 103,808,467 105,014,087 104,001,472 104,829,633 Dilutive options 403,606 829,562 403,606 829,562 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dilutive number of common shares outstanding 104,212,073 105,843,649 104,405,078 105,659,195 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Basic earnings per share $0.56 $0.52 $1.07 $1.04 Diluted earnings per share $0.56 $0.52 $1.07 $1.03
When calculating dilutive earnings per share, 869,351 options (nil in 2005) were excluded from the calculation because their exercise price is higher than the average market value.
Shares purchased during the period, under the normal course issuer bid, were excluded from the calculation of earnings per share as of the date of purchase.
7- Share Capital
Authorized
The authorized share capital of the Company consists of an unlimited number of common and preferred shares. The common shares are voting and participating. The preferred shares may be issued in one or more series, the terms and privileges of each series to be determined at the time of their creation.
September 30, 2006 March 31, 2006 ---------------------------------------------Source: MARKET WIRE
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