UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 6-K
REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-16
OR 15d-16
UNDER THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the month of April 2014
Commission File Number: 333-172078-02
Tembec Inc.
(Translation of registrant's name into English)
800, René-Lévesque Boulevard West, Suite 1050, Montréal, Québec, Canada, H3B 1X9
(Address of principal executive offices)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F.
[ ] Form 20-F [ x ] Form 40-F
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1): [ ]
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7): [ ]
DOCUMENTS FILED
See the Exhibit Index hereto.
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
TEMBEC INC. | ||
(Registrant) | ||
Date: April 29, 2014 | By: | /s/ Patrick LeBel |
Patrick LeBel | ||
Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary |
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibits
99.1 | News Release dated April 28, 2014 |
Exhibit 99.1
PRESS RELEASE |
TEMBEC REPORTS FINANCIAL RESULTS FOR ITS SECOND QUARTER ENDED MARCH 29, 2014
Montreal, Quebec, April 28, 2014: Consolidated sales for the three-month period ended March 29, 2014, were $362 million, as compared to $407 million in the same quarter a year ago. The Company generated a net loss of $28 million or $0.28 per share in the March 2014 quarter compared to a net loss of $31 million or $0.31 per share in the March 2013 quarter. The March 2014 results were impacted by $24 million of non-cash charges related to the translation of US $ denominated debt, the settlement of defined benefit pension plan obligations and deferred income taxes. Operating earnings before depreciation, amortization and other items (adjusted EBITDA) was $18 million for the three-month period ended March 29, 2014, as compared to adjusted EBITDA of $24 million a year ago and adjusted EBITDA of $13 million in the prior quarter.
Business Segment Results
The Specialty Cellulose Pulp segment generated adjusted EBITDA of $18 million on sales of $128 million for the quarter ended March 2014, compared to adjusted EBITDA of $14 million on sales of $126 million in the prior quarter. The sales increase of $2 million was due to higher prices. Demand for specialty grades was flat while US and euro prices declined quarter-over-quarter. However, with the Canadian dollar weakening by 4.7% versus the US dollar and by 5.8% versus the euro, Canadian dollar equivalent pricing increased by $32 per tonne. Currency was also the most significant factor impacting viscose grade pulp prices, which increased by $59 per tonne quarter-over-quarter. This market remains oversupplied and prices are relatively low. Overall, pricing increased adjusted EBITDA by $2 million. Shipments were equal to 81% of capacity as compared to 78% in the prior quarter. Costs related to the Tartas mill declined by $9 million. In the prior quarter, the mill absorbed a 12-day maintenance shutdown and delays in commissioning new equipment installed during the shutdown affected productivity. The improvement in cost was partially offset by a $3 million negative impact of foreign exchange on the reported Canadian dollar costs of the Tartas mill. The profitability of the Temiscaming mill declined by $2 million as a result of a higher percentage of viscose grade shipments.
The Forest Products segment generated adjusted EBITDA of $3 million on sales of $112 million for the quarter ended March 2014, compared to negative adjusted EBITDA of $2 million on sales of $99 million in the prior quarter. Sales increased by $13 million due to higher lumber prices and shipments. Lumber shipments were equal to 83% of capacity versus 79% in the prior quarter. During the quarter, the random length lumber reference price declined by US $6 per mbf while the reference price for stud lumber increased by US $16 per mbf. While the gap between the two grades narrowed as expected, the US $64 per mbf differential remained relatively high. Currency was favourable as the Canadian dollar averaged US $0.907, a 4.7% decline from US $0.952 in the prior quarter. The net effect increased sales and adjusted EBITDA by $5 million or $28 per mbf. Costs increased by $1 million, primarily for fibre. The winter months are also seasonally higher operating cost periods.
The Paper Pulp segment generated adjusted EBITDA of $2 million on sales of $62 million for the quarter ended March 2014, compared to adjusted EBITDA of $1 million on sales of $73 million in the prior quarter. The $11 million decline in sales was caused by lower shipments, partially offset by higher prices. Market conditions for paper pulp remained relatively weak although demand was stable. Pulp shipments were equal to 70% of capacity as compared to 86% in the prior quarter. Export shipments in the most recent quarter were negatively impacted by winter storms that led to delays and congestion at several East Coast ports normally utilized by the Company. It is anticipated that the shortfall in shipments will be made up in the June 2014 quarter. The benchmark price (delivered China) for bleached eucalyptus kraft (BEK) decreased by US $15 per tonne. However, this decline did not affect high-yield pulp prices in the quarter. Currency was a positive as the Canadian dollar weakened during the quarter. Overall, average prices increased by $30 per tonne, improving adjusted EBITDA by $3 million. Manufacturing costs increased by $1 million, primarily due to higher fibre costs. Freight costs also increased by $1 million as the previously noted weather issues led to alternate shipping and logistic arrangements.
The Paper segment generated negative adjusted EBITDA of $1 million on sales of $84 million for the quarter ended March 2014, compared to adjusted EBITDA of $7 million on sales of $80 million in the prior quarter. Higher prices and shipments for coated bleached board, partially offset by lower newsprint shipments led to the $4 million increase in sales. The coated bleached board market improved slightly. The shipment to capacity ratio was 94% compared to 87% in the prior quarter. The US $ benchmark price for coated bleached board increased by US $8 per short ton. Currency was positive as the Canadian dollar weakened during the quarter. Overall, average selling prices for coated bleached board improved by $89 per tonne quarter-over-quarter, increasing adjusted EBITDA by $4 million. Bleached board manufacturing costs increased by $3 million, primarily for fibre and energy. The newsprint market remained weak with continued decreases in North American demand. The shipment to capacity ratio was 81% compared to 89% in the prior quarter. The US $ benchmark price for newsprint was unchanged at US $605 per tonne. However, the average US $ price realizations declined by US $19 per tonne. The weaker Canadian dollar offset this decrease and newsprint pricing remained relatively unchanged from the prior quarter. The cold weather experienced in North America in February and March 2014 led to a shortage of natural gas and indirectly impacted the cost of electricity in the Province of Ontario. To partially mitigate the impact, the Kapuskasing newsprint mill took six days of unplanned downtime in the quarter. The overall impact was an $8 million increase in manufacturing costs, including $7 million for energy.
Other items
In September 2013, the Company announced the BC Lands Sale Initiative with the objective of realizing up to $75 million in gross proceeds by December 2014. During the December 2013 quarter, the Company closed the first two BC land sales transactions for total proceeds of $23 million. The Company did not sell any additional lands in the March 2014 quarter. The remaining BC lands have been classified as assets held for sale. On April 25, 2014, the Company announced the conditional sale of 49,500 hectares of BC land for a price of $35 million. The consideration also includes deferred payments of at least $2 million. The closing of the sale is conditional on the purchaser obtaining adequate financing. The Company also revised the BC Land Sale Initiative target to $70 million. There can be no assurance that the above transaction will be completed or that the Company will attain its stated objective.
Outlook
Overall, the March 2014 quarterly results were lower than anticipated. The relatively harsh winter conditions experienced in Eastern Canada and the U.S. Northeast led to higher energy costs, reduced productivity at certain facilities and delays in offshore shipments. The combined effect reduced quarterly adjusted EBITDA and operating earnings by approximately $10 million. The weaker Canadian dollar provided a partial offset. The Specialty Cellulose segment results improved by $4 million due to lower costs at the Tartas mill. The annual maintenance outage combined with a difficult start-up of a new bleaching tower led to increased costs in the prior quarter. The decrease in euro and US dollar specialty grade prices occurred in January, as previously disclosed. However, the weaker Canadian dollar largely offset the negative impact on specialty cellulose sales. Currency also generated the improvement in viscose grade prices. This market remains oversupplied and US dollar prices are relatively low. The improved results in the Forest Products segment were also currency driven as the lumber markets went sideways and US dollar prices were similar quarter-over-quarter. Stud lumber prices continued to lag random length lumber prices by a considerable margin. Improved demand and prices are anticipated in the June 2014 quarter. The summer months are also lower cost periods for the sawmills. The Paper Pulp segment results saw a small improvement, with higher prices partially offset by lower shipments due to weather related issues. The Company anticipates that it will make up most of the shipment shortfall in the June 2014 quarter. The Paper segment performance was the most negatively impacted by weather related issues and posted its lowest quarterly results in nearly five years. The cold weather led to natural gas shortages and higher prices. This in turn led to very high electricity prices in the Province of Ontario, significantly increasing costs at the Kapuskasing newsprint facility. A return to profitability is anticipated in the June 2014 quarter as energy costs decline with the warmer weather.
The Company continues with its capital expenditure program, with a strong emphasis on its two specialty cellulose mills. The cornerstone of the program is the high-pressure boiler and turbine currently under construction at the Temiscaming, Quebec, site. The project will materially improve the mill's cost structure and margins. Of the total forecast cost of $235 million, $201 million has been spent on the Temiscaming specialty cellulose project to the end of the March 2014 quarter. In September 2013, the Company launched its BC Lands Sale Initiative. The Company closed the first two lands sales transactions for total proceeds of $23 million in the December 2013 quarter. The Company recently announced the conditional sale of additional parcels for proceeds of $35 million and a further $2 million in future payments. The sale is conditional on the purchaser obtaining adequate financing. The objective is to realize up to $70 million in land sales by December 2014 and considerable effort will be deployed over the next few quarters to attain this objective.
Tembec is a manufacturer of forest products lumber, pulp, paper and specialty cellulose and a global leader in sustainable forest management practices. Principal operations are in Canada and France. With annual sales of approximately $1.6 billion, Tembec has 3,500 employees and is listed on the TSX (TMB). The full quarterly report, including the interim Management Discussion and Analysis, the interim financial statements and the accompanying notes for the quarter ended March 29, 2014, can be obtained on Tembecs website at www.tembec.com or on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
The Company`s financial results have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). All financial references are stated in Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted. All references to quarterly information relate to Tembecs fiscal quarters. Adjusted EBITDA and certain other financial measures utilized in the press release are non-IFRS financial measures. As they have no standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS, they may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Non-IFRS financial measures are described in the Definitions section on the last page of the interim Management Discussion and Analysis (MD&A).
This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of securities laws. Such statements relate, without limitation, to the Companys or managements objectives, projections, estimates, expectations or predictions of the future and can be identified by words such as may, will, could, anticipate, estimate, expect and project, the negative or variations thereof, and expressions of similar nature. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by the Company in light of its experience, information available to it and its perception of future developments. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, changes in foreign exchange rates, product selling prices, raw material and operating costs and other factors identified in the Companys periodic filings with securities regulatory authorities. Many of these risks are beyond the control of the Company and, therefore, may cause actual actions or results to materially differ from those expressed or implied herein. The forward-looking statements contained herein reflect the Companys expectations as of the date hereof and are subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any intention to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable securities legislation.
- 30 -
Investor Contact: | Michel J. Dumas | |
Executive Vice President, Finance and CFO | ||
Tel: 819 627-4268 | ||
E-mail: michel.dumas@tembec.com | ||
Media Contact: | Linda Coates | |
Vice President, Human Resources and Corporate Affairs | ||
Tel.: 416 775-2819 | ||
E-mail: linda.coates@tembec.com |
Managements Discussion and Analysis
for the quarter
ended March 29, 2014
The following interim Management Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) provides a review of the significant developments and issues that impacted Tembecs financial performance during its second fiscal quarter ended March 29, 2014. The MD&A should be read in conjunction with the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements for the period ended March 29, 2014, and the audited consolidated financial statements and annual MD&A for the fiscal year ended September 28, 2013, included in the Companys Financial Report. Financial data has been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). All financial references are stated in Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted. All references to quarterly information relate to Tembecs fiscal quarters. Adjusted EBITDA, net debt to total capitalization, free cash flow and certain other financial measures utilized in the MD&A are non-IFRS financial measures. As they have no standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS, they may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Non-IFRS financial measures are described in the Definitions section on the last page of the MD&A.
The interim MD&A includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of securities laws. Such statements relate, without limitation, to the Companys or managements objectives, projections, estimates, expectations or predictions of the future and can be identified by words such as may, will, could, anticipate, estimate, expect and project, the negative or variations thereof, and expressions of similar nature. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by the Company in light of its experience, information available to it and its perception of future developments. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, changes in foreign exchange rates, product selling prices, raw material and operating costs and other factors identified in the Companys periodic filings with securities regulatory authorities. Many of these risks are beyond the control of the Company and, therefore, may cause actual actions or results to materially differ from those expressed or implied herein. The forward-looking statements contained herein reflect the Companys expectations as of the date hereof and are subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any intention to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable securities legislation. The information in the MD&A is as at April 28, 2014, the date of filing in conjunction with the Companys press release announcing its results for the second fiscal quarter. Disclosure contained in this document is current to that date, unless otherwise stated.
CONSOLIDATED RESULTS |
Quarterly Results ($ millions) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Fiscal 2013 | Fiscal 2014 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Dec 12 | Mar 13 | Jun 13 | Sep 13 | Dec 13 | Mar 14 | Jun 14 | Sep 14 | |||||||||||||||||
Sales |
376 | 407 | 399 | 352 | 354 | 362 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
Freight and other deductions |
50 | 54 | 54 | 43 | 44 | 44 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
Lumber export taxes |
1 | - | 1 | 1 | 1 | (1 | ) | - | - | |||||||||||||||
Cost of sales |
286 | 310 | 296 | 268 | 278 | 284 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
SG&A |
19 | 19 | 18 | 16 | 17 | 18 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
Share-based compensation |
1 | - | - | - | 1 | (1 | ) | - | - | |||||||||||||||
Adjusted EBITDA |
19 | 24 | 30 | 24 | 13 | 18 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
11 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 8 | 9 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
Other items |
1 | 24 | 3 | 1 | (14 | ) | 6 | - | - | |||||||||||||||
Operating earnings (loss) |
7 | (9 | ) | 18 | 12 | 19 | 3 | - | - | |||||||||||||||
Interest, foreign exchange and other |
12 | 10 | 10 | 13 | 9 | 9 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
Exchange loss (gain) on long-term debt |
4 | 6 | 11 | (7 | ) | 12 | 11 | - | - | |||||||||||||||
Pre-tax earnings (loss) |
(9 | ) | (25 | ) | (3 | ) | 6 | (2 | ) | (17 | ) | - | - | |||||||||||
Income tax expense (recovery) |
6 | 6 | 4 | (8 | ) | (4 | ) | 11 | - | - | ||||||||||||||
Net earnings (loss) |
(15 | ) | (31 | ) | (7 | ) | 14 | 2 | (28 | ) | - | - |
-1-
IMPACT OF CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING STANDARD |
In fiscal 2014, the Company adopted International Accounting Standard (IAS) 19, Employee Benefits. The adoption of the new standard had limited impact on adjusted EBITDA and operating results. The prior year comparative amounts have been restated. The following summarizes the impact on fiscal 2013 quarterly and total year operating results.
($ millions) | |||||||||||||||
TOTAL | |||||||||||||||
Dec 12 | Mar 13 | Jun 13 | Sep 13 | 2013 | |||||||||||
Adjusted EBITDA | |||||||||||||||
As reported | 19 | 24 | 30 | 25 | 98 | ||||||||||
Restated | 19 | 24 | 30 | 24 | 97 | ||||||||||
Operating earnings (loss) | |||||||||||||||
As reported | 7 | (8 | ) | 17 | 13 | 29 | |||||||||
Restated | 7 | (9 | ) | 18 | 12 | 28 |
A more detailed review of the impact of the new standard is included in Note 2 of the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements.
-2-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS DECEMBER 2013 QUARTER |
CONSOLIDATED SUMMARY |
SALES | |||||||||||||||
$ millions | December | March | Total | Price | Volume & Mix | ||||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | Variance | Variance | |||||||||||
Forest Products |
99 | 112 | 13 | 6 | 7 | ||||||||||
Specialty Cellulose Pulp |
126 | 128 | 2 | 3 | (1 | ) | |||||||||
Paper Pulp |
73 | 62 | (11 | ) | 3 | (14 | ) | ||||||||
Paper |
80 | 84 | 4 | 4 | - | ||||||||||
Corporate |
3 | 4 | 1 | - | 1 | ||||||||||
|
381 | 390 | 9 | 16 | (7 | ) | |||||||||
Less: Intersegment Sales |
(27 | ) | (28 | ) | (1 | ) | |||||||||
Sales |
354 | 362 | 8 |
Sales increased by $8 million as compared to the prior quarter. Currency had a positive effect on pricing as the Canadian dollar averaged US $0.907, a 4.7% decline from US $0.952 in the prior quarter. Forest Products segment sales increased by $13 million due to higher shipments and selling prices. Specialty Cellulose Pulp segment sales increased by $2 million due to higher prices. Paper Pulp segment sales declined by $11 million due to lower shipments. Paper sales increased by $4 million due to higher selling prices.
ADJUSTED EBITDA | |||||||||||||||
$ millions | December | March | Total | Price | Cost & Volume | ||||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | Variance | Variance | |||||||||||
Forest Products |
(2 | ) | 3 | 5 | 6 | (1 | ) | ||||||||
Specialty Cellulose Pulp |
14 | 18 | 4 | 3 | 1 | ||||||||||
Paper Pulp |
1 | 2 | 1 | 3 | (2 | ) | |||||||||
Paper |
7 | (1 | ) | (8 | ) | 4 | (12 | ) | |||||||
Corporate |
(7 | ) | (4 | ) | 3 | - | 3 | ||||||||
|
13 | 18 | 5 | 16 | (11 | ) |
Adjusted EBITDA increased by $5 million as compared to the prior quarter. The Forest Products segment adjusted EBITDA improved by $5 million as a result of higher prices. Specialty Cellulose Pulp segment adjusted EBITDA increased by $4 million due to higher prices. Paper Pulp segment adjusted EBITDA improved by $1 million due to higher prices, partially offset by higher costs. Paper segment adjusted EBITDA decreased by $8 million as a result of higher costs, partially offset by higher prices.
OPERATING EARNINGS (LOSS) | ||||||||||||||||||
Adjusted | ||||||||||||||||||
$ millions | December | March | Total | EBITDA | Depreciation | Other Items | ||||||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | Variance | Variance | Variance | |||||||||||||
Forest Products |
(3 | ) | 1 | 4 | 5 | (1 | ) | - | ||||||||||
Specialty Cellulose Pulp |
10 | 15 | 5 | 4 | 1 | - | ||||||||||||
Paper Pulp |
(1 | ) | (1 | ) | - | 1 | (1 | ) | - | |||||||||
Paper |
6 | (2 | ) | (8 | ) | (8 | ) | - | - | |||||||||
Corporate |
7 | (10 | ) | (17 | ) | 3 | - | (20 | ) | |||||||||
19 | 3 | (16 | ) | 5 | (1 | ) | (20 | ) |
The Company generated operating earnings of $3 million compared to operating earnings of $19 million in the prior quarter. The previously noted increase in adjusted EBITDA was more than offset by a negative variance in other items. In the prior quarter, the Company realized a gain of $20 million related to the sale of land in British Columbia (BC). A more detailed explanation of segment variances is included in the analysis that follows.
-3-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS DECEMBER 2013 QUARTER |
SEGMENT RESULTS FOREST PRODUCTS |
December | March | ||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | |||||||
Financial ($ millions) |
|||||||||
Sales (1) |
99 | 112 | 13 | ||||||
|
|||||||||
Freight and other deductions |
9 | 11 | (2 | ) | |||||
Lumber export taxes |
1 | (1 | ) | 2 | |||||
Cost of sales |
88 | 96 | (8 | ) | |||||
SG&A |
3 | 3 | - | ||||||
Adjusted EBITDA |
(2 | ) | 3 | 5 | |||||
|
|||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
1 | 2 | (1 | ) | |||||
Operating earnings (loss) |
(3 | ) | 1 | 4 | |||||
|
|||||||||
Shipments |
|||||||||
SPF lumber (mmbf) |
169 | 177 | 8 | ||||||
|
|||||||||
Benchmark Prices |
|||||||||
KD #2 & better delivered G.L. (US $ per mbf) |
463 | 457 | (6 | ) | |||||
KD stud delivered G.L. (US $ per mbf) |
377 | 393 | 16 | ||||||
(1) Includes intersegment sales eliminated on consolidation |
The Forest Products segment generated adjusted EBITDA of $3 million on sales of $112 million for the quarter ended March 2014, compared to negative adjusted EBITDA of $2 million on sales of $99 million in the prior quarter. Sales increased by $13 million due to higher lumber prices and shipments.
Lumber shipments were equal to 83% of capacity versus 79% in the prior quarter. During the quarter, the random length lumber reference price declined by US $6 per mbf while the reference price for stud lumber increased by US $16 per mbf. While the gap between the two grades narrowed as expected, the US $64 per mbf differential remained relatively high. Currency was favourable as the Canadian dollar averaged US $0.907, a 4.7% decline from US $0.952 in the prior quarter. The net effect increased sales and adjusted EBITDA by $5 million or $28 per mbf. Costs increased by $1 million, primarily for fibre. The winter months are also seasonally higher operating cost periods.
During the March 2014 quarter, the Company recorded a credit of $1 million related to lumber export taxes as compared to a charge of $1 million in the prior quarter. Lumber export taxes are payable based on the 2006 Softwood Lumber Agreement (SLA) between Canada and the United States. Applicable export tax rates may vary based on selling prices. During the most recent quarter, an arbitration ruling reduced the export tax payable by Ontario and Quebec producers. The ruling applied retroactively to shipments since October 13, 2013. The reversal of prior quarter export taxes resulted in the $1 million recovery recognized in the current quarter. At current price levels, the Company will not incur export taxes on lumber shipped to the U.S.
The Forest Products segment generated operating earnings of $1 million, compared to an operating loss of $3 million from the prior quarter. The increase in adjusted EBITDA generated the improvement in operating results.
-4-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS DECEMBER 2013 QUARTER |
SEGMENT RESULTS SPECIALTY CELLULOSE PULP |
December | March | ||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | |||||||
Financial ($ millions) |
|||||||||
Sales - Pulp |
99 | 101 | 2 | ||||||
Sales - Chemicals |
27 | 27 | - | ||||||
|
126 | 128 | 2 | ||||||
|
|||||||||
Freight and other deductions |
10 | 11 | (1 | ) | |||||
Cost of sales |
97 | 94 | 3 | ||||||
SG&A |
5 | 5 | - | ||||||
Adjusted EBITDA |
14 | 18 | 4 | ||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
4 | 3 | 1 | ||||||
Operating earnings |
10 | 15 | 5 | ||||||
|
|||||||||
Shipments |
|||||||||
Specialty grades (000's tonnes) |
52 | 49 | (3 | ) | |||||
Viscose grades (000's tonnes) |
8 | 14 | 6 | ||||||
|
60 | 63 | 3 | ||||||
|
|||||||||
Average prices |
|||||||||
Specialty grades (C $ per tonne) |
1,770 | 1,802 | 32 | ||||||
Viscose grades (C $ per tonne) |
865 | 924 | 59 |
The Specialty Cellulose Pulp segment generated adjusted EBITDA of $18 million on sales of $128 million for the quarter ended March 2014, compared to adjusted EBITDA of $14 million on sales of $126 million in the prior quarter. The pulp sales increase of $2 million was due to higher prices.
Demand for specialty grades was flat while US and euro prices declined quarter-over-quarter. However, with the Canadian dollar weakening by 4.7% versus the US dollar and by 5.8% versus the euro, Canadian dollar equivalent pricing increased by $32 per tonne. Currency was also the most significant item impacting viscose grade pulp prices, which increased by $59 per tonne quarter-over-quarter. This market remains oversupplied and prices are relatively low. Overall, pricing increased adjusted EBITDA by $2 million. Shipments were equal to 81% of capacity as compared to 78% in the prior quarter. Costs related to the Tartas mill declined by $9 million. In the prior quarter, the mill absorbed a 12-day maintenance shutdown and delays in commissioning new equipment installed during the shutdown affected productivity. The improvement in cost was partially offset by a $3 million negative impact of foreign exchange on the reported Canadian dollar costs of the Tartas mill. The profitability of the Temiscaming mill declined by $2 million as a result of a higher percentage of viscose grade shipments. Finished goods inventories of specialty cellulose pulp were at approximately 34 days of supply at the end of March 2014, compared to 35 days at the end of the prior quarter.
The Specialty Cellulose Pulp segment generated operating earnings of $15 million compared to operating earnings of $10 million in the prior quarter. The previously noted increase in adjusted EBITDA accounted for the higher operating earnings.
-5-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS DECEMBER 2013 QUARTER |
SEGMENT RESULTS PAPER PULP |
December | March | ||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | |||||||
Financial ($ millions) |
|||||||||
Sales (1) |
73 | 62 | (11 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Freight and other deductions |
14 | 11 | 3 | ||||||
Cost of sales |
57 | 47 | 10 | ||||||
SG&A |
1 | 2 | (1 | ) | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA |
1 | 2 | 1 | ||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
2 | 3 | (1 | ) | |||||
Operating loss |
(1 | ) | (1 | ) | - | ||||
|
|||||||||
Shipments |
|||||||||
High-yield pulp (000's tonnes) |
107 | 85 | (22 | ) | |||||
Internal (000's tonnes) |
15 | 14 | (1 | ) | |||||
Total |
122 | 99 | (23 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Benchmark Prices |
|||||||||
BEK - delivered China (US $ per tonne) |
652 | 637 | (15 | ) | |||||
(1) Includes intersegment sales eliminated on consolidation |
The Paper Pulp segment generated adjusted EBITDA of $2 million on sales of $62 million for the quarter ended March 2014, compared to adjusted EBITDA of $1 million on sales of $73 million in the prior quarter. The $11 million decline in sales was caused by lower shipments, partially offset by higher prices.
Market conditions for paper pulp remained relatively weak although demand was stable. Pulp shipments were equal to 70% of capacity as compared to 86% in the prior quarter. Export shipments in the most recent quarter were negatively impacted by winter storms that led to delays and congestion at several East Coast ports normally utilized by the Company. It is anticipated that the shortfall in shipments will be made up in the June 2014 quarter. The benchmark price (delivered China) for bleached eucalyptus kraft (BEK) decreased by US $15 per tonne. However, this decline did not affect high-yield pulp prices in the quarter. Currency was a positive as the Canadian dollar averaged US $0.907, a 4.7% decline from US $0.952 in the prior quarter. Overall, average prices increased by $30 per tonne, improving adjusted EBITDA by $3 million. Manufacturing costs increased by $1 million, primarily due to higher fibre costs. Freight costs also increased by $1 million as the previously noted weather issues led to alternate shipping and logistic arrangements. Paper Pulp inventories were at 48 days of supply at the end of March 2014, as compared to 28 days at the end of December 2013.
The Paper Pulp segment generated an operating loss of $1 million, unchanged from the prior quarter.
-6-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS DECEMBER 2013 QUARTER |
SEGMENT RESULTS PAPER |
December | March | ||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | |||||||
Financial ($ millions) |
|||||||||
Sales |
80 | 84 | 4 | ||||||
|
|||||||||
Freight and other deductions |
11 | 11 | - | ||||||
Cost of sales |
60 | 71 | (11 | ) | |||||
SG&A |
2 | 3 | (1 | ) | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA |
7 | (1 | ) | (8 | ) | ||||
|
|||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
1 | 1 | - | ||||||
Operating earnings (loss) |
6 | (2 | ) | (8 | ) | ||||
|
|||||||||
Shipments |
|||||||||
Coated bleached board (000's tonnes) |
39 | 42 | 3 | ||||||
Newsprint (000's tonnes) |
54 | 49 | (5 | ) | |||||
Total |
93 | 91 | (2 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Benchmark Prices |
|||||||||
16 pt. Coated bleached board (US $ per short ton) |
1,155 | 1,163 | 8 | ||||||
Newsprint - 48.8 gram East Coast |
|||||||||
(US $ per tonne) |
605 | 605 | - |
The Paper segment generated negative adjusted EBITDA of $1 million on sales of $84 million for the quarter ended March 2014, compared to adjusted EBITDA of $7 million on sales of $80 million in the prior quarter. Higher prices and shipments for coated bleached board, partially offset by lower newsprint shipments led to the $4 million increase in sales.
The coated bleached board market improved slightly. The shipment to capacity ratio was 94% compared to 87% in the prior quarter. The US $ benchmark price for coated bleached board increased by US $8 per short ton. Currency was positive as the Canadian dollar averaged US $0.907, a 4.7% decrease from US $0.952 in the prior quarter. Overall, average selling prices for coated bleached board improved by $89 per tonne quarter-over-quarter, increasing adjusted EBITDA by $4 million. Bleached board manufacturing costs increased by $3 million, primarily for fibre and energy. The newsprint market remained weak with continued decreases in North American demand. The shipment to capacity ratio was 81% compared to 89% in the prior quarter. The US $ benchmark price for newsprint was unchanged at US $605 per tonne. However, the average US $ price realizations declined by US $19 per tonne. The weaker Canadian dollar offset this decrease and newsprint pricing remained relatively unchanged from the prior quarter. The cold weather experienced in North America in February and March 2014 led to a shortage of natural gas and indirectly impacted the cost of electricity in the Province of Ontario. To partially mitigate the impact, the Kapuskasing newsprint mill took six days of unplanned downtime in the quarter. The overall impact was an $8 million increase in manufacturing costs, including $7 million for energy.
The Paper segment generated an operating loss of $2 million, compared to operating earnings of $6 million in the prior quarter. The previously noted decrease in adjusted EBITDA led to the decline in operating earnings.
-7-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS DECEMBER 2013 QUARTER |
SEGMENT RESULTS CORPORATE |
December | March | |||||
2013 | 2014 | |||||
Financial ($ millions) |
||||||
General and administrative expenses |
6 | 5 | ||||
Share-based compensation |
1 | (1 | ) | |||
Other items: |
||||||
Custodial - idled facilities |
3 | - | ||||
Gain on sale of BC lands |
(20 | ) | - | |||
Reorganization - severance costs |
3 | - | ||||
Gain on sale of Chetwynd pulp mill |
- | (1 | ) | |||
Loss on termination of BC defined benefit pension plan |
- | 7 | ||||
Operating expenses |
(7 | ) | 10 |
The Company recorded a $1 million credit for share-based compensation in the current quarter as compared to a $1 million expense in the prior quarter. Senior executives currently participate in a long-term incentive plan which entitles participants to potentially receive units that are equal in value to one common share. The units have a defined vesting period and are subject to performance conditions that ultimately determine the amount of units that vest and are earned by plan participants. Non-executive members of the board of directors receive a portion of their fees in the form of Deferred Share Units (DSU). The DSUs vest at specified dates. The period credit/expense for the share-based compensation plans consists of normal periodic variation in the number of units based on anticipated or normal vesting and the change in the value of the Companys share price.
The Corporate segments other items include expenses relating to several permanently idled facilities. The costs relate to custodial, site security, legal and remediation activities. These legacy costs were negligible in the most recent quarter compared to $3 million in the prior quarter.
In September 2013, the Company launched its BC Land Sales Initiative. The Company has set an objective of realizing up to $75 million in land sales by December 2014. During the December 2013 quarter, the Company closed the first two BC land sales transactions for total proceeds of $23 million and recorded a gain of $20 million. The remaining BC lands have been classified as assets held for sale.
During the December 2013 quarter, the Company reorganized certain functions and roles and recorded a charge of $3 million relating to severance costs associated with personnel reductions.
In March 2014, the Company completed the sale of the Chetwynd, BC, high-yield pulp mill for a nominal amount. The sale generated a $1 million gain as the buyer assumed certain liabilities associated with the facility.
During the March 2014 quarter, the Company terminated its BC defined benefit pension plan and recorded a charge of $7 million. The Company entered into an agreement with an insurance company to settle a $55 million pension obligation for an amount of $62 million, which was equivalent to the amount of plan assets held in trust at the time of the settlement.
-8-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS DECEMBER 2013 QUARTER |
INTEREST, FOREIGN EXCHANGE AND OTHER |
The following table summarizes interest, foreign exchange and other expenses by component:
$ millions | ||||||
December | March | |||||
2013 | 2014 | |||||
Interest on debt |
11 | 12 | ||||
Capitalized interest |
(4 | ) | (3 | ) | ||
Foreign exchange items |
- | (1 | ) | |||
Employee future benefits |
1 | 1 | ||||
Bank charges and other |
1 | - | ||||
9 | 9 |
The interest expense relates primarily to interest on the US $305 million 11.25% senior secured notes maturing in December 2018. Capitalized interest relates primarily to the large capital project currently under construction at the Temiscaming, QC, specialty cellulose mill. Foreign exchange items are primarily caused by gains or losses on the translation of US $ net monetary assets. The charge for employee future benefits relates to interest accretion on net unfunded obligations.
TRANSLATION OF FOREIGN DEBT |
During the March 2014 quarter, the Company recorded a loss of $11 million on the translation of its US $ denominated debt as the relative value of the Canadian dollar decreased from US $0.934 to US $0.904.
During the December 2013 quarter, the Company recorded a loss of $12 million on the translation of its US $ denominated debt as the relative value of the Canadian dollar decreased from US $0.971 to US $0.934.
INCOME TAXES |
The following table reconciles the anticipated income tax expense/recovery based on the statutory rate to the actual income tax expense/recovery:
$ millions | ||||||
December | March | |||||
2013 | 2014 | |||||
Net loss before income taxes |
(2 | ) | (17 | ) | ||
Anticipated income tax recovery |
(1 | ) | (4 | ) | ||
|
||||||
Increase (decrease): |
||||||
Difference in statutory rates |
1 | 1 | ||||
Recognition of previously unrecognized tax asset |
(6 | ) | - | |||
Unrecognized tax asset arising from current period losses |
- | 12 | ||||
Permanent differences and other tax adjustments |
2 | 2 | ||||
Income tax expense (recovery) |
(4 | ) | 11 |
-9-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS DECEMBER 2013 QUARTER |
During the March 2014 quarter, the Company recorded an income tax expense of $11 million on a loss before income taxes of $17 million. The income tax expense reflected a $15 million unfavourable variance versus an anticipated income tax recovery of $4 million based on the Companys effective tax rate of 26.2% . The difference in statutory income tax rates increased the income tax expense by $1 million. This was caused by the higher corporate tax rate applicable to the Companys French operations. During the March 2014 quarter, the income tax expense was increased by $12 million as the result of the non-recognition of tax assets relating to the Canadian operations based on the financial results for the current quarter. The Company currently has a significant balance of unrecognized tax assets relating to its Canadian operations since it has not been determined that the future realization of these assets is probable. Permanent differences and other tax adjustments increased the income tax expense by $2 million.
During the December 2013 quarter, the Company recorded an income tax recovery of $4 million on a loss before income taxes of $2 million. The income tax recovery reflected a $3 million favourable variance versus an anticipated income tax recovery of $1 million based on the Companys effective tax rate of 26.2% . The difference in statutory income tax rates reduced the income tax recovery by $1 million. This was caused by the higher corporate tax rate applicable to the Companys French operations. During the December 2013 quarter, the income tax recovery was increased by $6 million as the result of the recognition of previously unrecognized tax assets relating to the Canadian operations based on the financial results for the December 2013 quarter. The Company currently has a significant balance of unrecognized tax assets relating to its Canadian operations since it has not been determined that the future realization of these assets is probable. Permanent differences and other tax adjustments decreased the income tax recovery by $2 million.
NET EARNINGS (LOSS) |
The Company generated a net loss of $28 million or $0.28 per share for the quarter ended March 29, 2014. This compares to net earnings of $2 million or $0.02 per share for the quarter ended December 28, 2013. As noted previously, the Companys financial results were impacted by certain specific items. The following table summarizes the impact of these items on the reported financial results. The Company believes it is useful supplemental information as it provides an indication of results excluding the specific items. This supplemental information is not intended as an alternative measure for net earnings as determined by IFRS. The table below contains the gain or loss on translation of foreign debt, which is a recurring item. Because the Company has a substantial amount of US $ denominated debt, relatively minor changes in the value of the Canadian dollar versus the US dollar can lead to large unrealized periodic gains or losses. As well, this item receives capital gain/loss tax treatment and is not tax-affected at regular business income rates.
December 2013 | March 2014 | |||||||||||
$ millions | $ per share | $ millions | $ per share | |||||||||
Net earnings (loss) as reported - in accordance with IFRS |
2 | 0.02 | (28 | ) | (0.28 | ) | ||||||
Specific items (after-tax): |
||||||||||||
Loss on translation of foreign debt |
11 | 0.11 | 9 | 0.09 | ||||||||
Gain on sale of BC lands |
(15 | ) | (0.15 | ) | - | - | ||||||
Reorganization - severance costs |
2 | 0.02 | - | - | ||||||||
Gain on sale of Chetwynd pulp mill |
- | - | (1 | ) | (0.01 | ) | ||||||
BC defined benefit pension plan termination |
- | - | 5 | 0.05 | ||||||||
Costs for permanently idled facilities |
2 | 0.02 | - | - | ||||||||
Unrecognized deferred tax on above items |
(2 | ) | (0.02 | ) | 3 | 0.03 | ||||||
Net loss excluding specific items - not in accordance with IFRS |
- | - | (12 | ) | (0.12 | ) |
-10-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS DECEMBER 2013 QUARTER |
COMPREHENSIVE EARNINGS (LOSS) |
The following table summarizes the impact of items affecting the reported total comprehensive earnings (loss) during the last two quarters:
$ millions | ||||||
December | March | |||||
2013 | 2014 | |||||
Net earnings (loss) |
2 | (28 | ) | |||
Employee future benefit gain (loss) |
29 | (20 | ) | |||
Income tax recovery (expense) |
(7 | ) | 5 | |||
Foreign currency translation gain on foreign operations |
11 | 7 | ||||
Total comprehensive earnings (loss) |
35 | (36 | ) |
During the March 2014 quarter, the Company recognized a loss of $20 million relating to the increase of the estimated net obligation for employee future benefits. The average discount rate applied to estimate the present value of future obligations decreased from 4.70% to 4.34%, thereby increasing estimated future obligations by $38 million. The adoption of revised mortality projections further increased the estimated present value of future obligations by $14 million. The return on plan assets exceeded the expected return, providing a partial offset of $32 million to the above items.
During the December 2013 quarter, the Company recognized a gain of $29 million relating to the reduction of the estimated net obligation for employee future benefits. The average discount rate applied to estimate the present value of future obligations increased from 4.60% to 4.70%, thereby reducing estimated future obligations by $11 million. The return on plan assets exceeded the projected return, decreasing estimated future obligations by $18 million.
Comprehensive items include gains or losses related to the currency translation of the assets and liabilities of the Companys French and U.S. operations. The gains or losses are generated by changes in the end of period exchange rates. During the March 2014 quarter, the currency translation of the French operations generated a gain of $7 million. During the December 2013 quarter, the currency translation of the French operations generated a gain of $11 million.
-11-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS MARCH 2013 QUARTER |
CONSOLIDATED SUMMARY |
SALES | |||||||||||||||
$ millions | March | March | Total | Price | Volume & Mix | ||||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | Variance | Variance | |||||||||||
Forest Products |
104 | 112 | 8 | 2 | 6 | ||||||||||
Specialty Cellulose Pulp |
120 | 128 | 8 | 5 | 3 | ||||||||||
Paper Pulp |
122 | 62 | (60 | ) | 7 | (67 | ) | ||||||||
Paper |
87 | 84 | (3 | ) | 7 | (10 | ) | ||||||||
Corporate |
2 | 4 | 2 | - | 2 | ||||||||||
|
435 | 390 | (45 | ) | 21 | (66 | ) | ||||||||
Less: Intersegment Sales |
(28 | ) | (28 | ) | - | ||||||||||
Sales |
407 | 362 | (45 | ) |
Sales decreased by $45 million from the same quarter a year ago. Currency was a positive factor as the Canadian dollar averaged US $0.907, an 8.5% decrease from US $0.991 in the year ago quarter. Forest Products segment sales increased by $8 million as a result of higher shipments and prices. Specialty Cellulose Pulp segment sales increased by $8 million due to higher shipments and prices. Paper Pulp segment sales declined by $60 million due to lower shipments. Paper segment sales decreased by $3 million due to lower shipments, partially offset by higher prices.
ADJUSTED EBITDA | |||||||||||||||
$ millions | March | March | Total | Price | Cost & Volume | ||||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | Variance | Variance | |||||||||||
Forest Products |
7 | 3 | (4 | ) | 2 | (6 | ) | ||||||||
Specialty Cellulose Pulp |
14 | 18 | 4 | 5 | (1 | ) | |||||||||
Paper Pulp |
4 | 2 | (2 | ) | 7 | (9 | ) | ||||||||
Paper |
5 | (1 | ) | (6 | ) | 7 | (13 | ) | |||||||
Corporate |
(6 | ) | (4 | ) | 2 | - | 2 | ||||||||
24 | 18 | (6 | ) | 21 | (27 | ) |
Adjusted EBITDA declined by $6 million from the prior year quarter. Forest Products segment adjusted EBITDA declined by $4 million from the prior year quarter due to higher costs, partially offset by higher selling prices. Specialty Cellulose Pulp segment adjusted EBITDA increased by $4 million due to higher prices. Paper Pulp segment adjusted EBITDA decreased by $2 million due to higher costs, partially offset by higher prices. Paper segment adjusted EBITDA decreased by $6 million due to higher costs, partially offset by higher prices.
OPERATING EARNINGS (LOSS) | ||||||||||||||||||
Adjusted | ||||||||||||||||||
$ millions | March | March | Total | EBITDA | Depreciation | Other Items | ||||||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | Variance | Variance | Variance | |||||||||||||
Forest Products |
5 | 1 | (4 | ) | (4 | ) | - | - | ||||||||||
Specialty Cellulose Pulp |
11 | 15 | 4 | 4 | - | - | ||||||||||||
Paper Pulp |
(21 | ) | (1 | ) | 20 | (2 | ) | - | 22 | |||||||||
Paper |
4 | (2 | ) | (6 | ) | (6 | ) | - | - | |||||||||
Corporate |
(8 | ) | (10 | ) | (2 | ) | 2 | - | (4 | ) | ||||||||
(9 | ) | 3 | 12 | (6 | ) | - | 18 |
The Company generated operating earnings of $3 million compared to an operating loss of $9 million in the same quarter a year ago. The improvement in operating results is due primarily to a favourable variance in other items, which more than offset the decrease in adjusted EBITDA. In the prior year quarter, the Company absorbed a $22 million impairment charge related to the Skookumchuck, NBSK pulp mill.
-12-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS MARCH 2013 QUARTER |
SEGMENT RESULTS FOREST PRODUCTS |
March | March | ||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | |||||||
Financial ($ millions) |
|||||||||
Sales (1) |
104 | 112 | 8 | ||||||
|
|||||||||
Freight and other deductions |
10 | 11 | (1 | ) | |||||
Lumber export taxes |
- | (1 | ) | 1 | |||||
Cost of sales |
84 | 96 | (12 | ) | |||||
SG&A |
3 | 3 | - | ||||||
Adjusted EBITDA |
7 | 3 | (4 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
2 | 2 | - | ||||||
Operating earnings |
5 | 1 | (4 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Shipments |
|||||||||
SPF lumber (mmbf) |
171 | 177 | 6 | ||||||
|
|||||||||
Benchmark Prices |
|||||||||
KD #2 & better delivered G.L. (US $ per mbf) |
484 | 457 | (27 | ) | |||||
KD stud delivered G.L. (US $ per mbf) |
426 | 393 | (33 | ) | |||||
(1) Includes intersegment sales eliminated on consolidation |
The Forest Products segment generated adjusted EBITDA of $3 million on sales of $112 million. This compares to adjusted EBITDA of $7 million on sales of $104 million in the comparable quarter of the prior year. Higher shipments and selling prices of lumber generated the $8 million increase in sales.
Demand for SPF lumber was stable with shipments equal to 83% of capacity, as compared to 76% in the year ago quarter. US $ benchmark prices for random lumber decreased by US $27 per mbf while the benchmark price for stud lumber was down US $33 per mbf. Currency more than offset the decline in US $ prices as the Canadian dollar averaged US $0.907, an 8.5% decline from US $0.991 in the prior year quarter. As a result, the average selling price of SPF lumber increased by $6 per mbf, increasing adjusted EBITDA by $1 million. Costs increased by $5 million. Fibre costs accounted for $4 million of the increase.
During the March 2014 quarter, the Company recorded a credit of $1 million related to lumber export taxes as compared to a nil charge in the prior year quarter. During the most recent quarter, an arbitration ruling reduced the export tax payable by Ontario and Quebec producers. The ruling applied retroactively to shipments since October 13, 2013. The reversal of the December 2013 quarter export taxes resulted in the $1 million recovery recognized in the current quarter. At current price levels, the Company will not incur export taxes on lumber shipped to the U.S.
The Forest Products segment generated operating earnings of $1 million, as compared to operating earnings of $5 million in the prior year quarter. The previously noted decrease in adjusted EBITDA led to the decline in operating results.
-13-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS MARCH 2013 QUARTER |
SEGMENT RESULTS SPECIALTY CELLULOSE PULP |
March | March | ||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | |||||||
Financial ($ millions) |
|||||||||
Sales - Pulp |
95 | 101 | 6 | ||||||
Sales - Chemicals |
25 | 27 | 2 | ||||||
|
120 | 128 | 8 | ||||||
|
|||||||||
Freight and other deductions |
9 | 11 | (2 | ) | |||||
Cost of sales |
92 | 94 | (2 | ) | |||||
SG&A |
5 | 5 | - | ||||||
Adjusted EBITDA |
14 | 18 | 4 | ||||||
|
|||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
3 | 3 | - | ||||||
Operating earnings |
11 | 15 | 4 | ||||||
|
|||||||||
Shipments |
|||||||||
Specialty grades (000's tonnes) |
47 | 49 | 2 | ||||||
Viscose grades (000's tonnes) |
15 | 14 | (1 | ) | |||||
|
62 | 63 | 1 | ||||||
|
|||||||||
Average prices |
|||||||||
Specialty grades (C $ per tonne) |
1,708 | 1,802 | 94 | ||||||
Viscose grades (C $ per tonne) |
941 | 924 | (17 | ) |
The Specialty Cellulose Pulp segment generated adjusted EBITDA of $18 million on sales of $128 million. This compares to adjusted EBITDA of $14 million on sales of $120 million in the year ago quarter. The $6 million increase in pulp sales was due to higher shipments and prices for specialty grades.
Demand for specialty grades was comparable with the prior year quarter, while US dollar and euro prices declined. The $94 per tonne improvement in Canadian dollar prices was largely due to currency as the Canadian dollar weakened by 8.5% versus the US dollar and 13.5% versus the euro. The significant decline in viscose grade US $ prices was also largely offset by the weaker Canadian dollar. The viscose market remains oversupplied and prices are relatively low. Overall, pulp pricing improved, increasing adjusted EBITDA by $4 million. Shipments were equal to 81% of capacity as compared to 80% in the prior year quarter. Cost of sales were relatively unchanged quarter-over-quarter.
The Specialty Cellulose Pulp segment generated operating earnings of $15 million compared to operating earnings of $11 million in the comparable quarter of the prior year. The previously noted increase in adjusted EBITDA led to the higher operating earnings.
-14-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS MARCH 2013 QUARTER |
SEGMENT RESULTS PAPER PULP |
March | March | ||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | |||||||
Financial ($ millions) |
|||||||||
Sales (1) |
122 | 62 | (60 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Freight and other deductions |
24 | 11 | 13 | ||||||
Cost of sales |
92 | 47 | 45 | ||||||
SG&A |
2 | 2 | - | ||||||
Adjusted EBITDA |
4 | 2 | (2 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
3 | 3 | - | ||||||
Other item - impairment of Skookumchuck pulp mill |
22 | - | 22 | ||||||
Operating loss |
(21 | ) | (1 | ) | 20 | ||||
|
|||||||||
Shipments |
|||||||||
NBSK pulp (000's tonnes) |
75 | - | (75 | ) | |||||
High-yield pulp (000's tonnes) |
113 | 85 | (28 | ) | |||||
Internal (000's tonnes) |
16 | 14 | (2 | ) | |||||
Total |
204 | 99 | (105 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Benchmark Prices |
|||||||||
BEK - delivered China (US $ per tonne) |
677 | 637 | (40 | ) | |||||
(1) Includes intersegment sales eliminated on consolidation |
The Paper Pulp segment generated adjusted EBITDA of $2 million on sales of $62 million. This compares to adjusted EBITDA of $4 million on sales of $122 million in the year ago quarter. The $60 million decrease in sales was caused by lower shipments. In May 2013, the Company completed the sale of its remaining NBSK pulp mill located in Skookumchuck, BC. During the prior year quarter, the pulp mill had shipped 74,900 tonnes and had recorded sales of $50 million. Lower shipments of high-yield pulp accounted for the balance of the decline.
Market conditions for paper pulp were similar to those of the year ago quarter. Pulp shipments were equal to 70% of capacity as compared to 98% in the year ago quarter. Export shipments in the most recent quarter were negatively impacted by winter storms that led to delays and congestion at several East Coast ports normally utilized by the Company. It is anticipated that the shortfall will be made up in the June 2014 quarter. The benchmark price for BEK decreased by US $40 per tonne. However, this decline did not affect high-yield pulp prices in the quarter. Currency was a positive factor as the Canadian dollar averaged US $0.907, an 8.5% decline from the year ago quarter. Overall, Canadian dollar prices for high-yield pulp improved by $70 per tonne increasing adjusted EBITDA by $7 million. Mill cost of sales increased by $2 million, primarily for fibre. Freight costs also increased by $1 million as the previously noted weather issues led to alternate shipping and logistics arrangements. The sale of the Skookumchuck NBSK pulp mill impacted comparative operating results. In the prior year quarter, the pulp mill had generated EBITDA of $6 million.
The Paper Pulp segment generated an operating loss of $1 million compared to an operating loss of $21 million in the comparable quarter of the prior year. The year ago quarter had absorbed an impairment charge of $22 million related to the Skookumchuck, NBSK pulp mill.
-15-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS MARCH 2013 QUARTER |
SEGMENT RESULTS PAPER |
March | March | ||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | |||||||
Financial ($ millions) |
|||||||||
Sales |
87 | 84 | (3 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Freight and other deductions |
11 | 11 | - | ||||||
Cost of sales |
68 | 71 | (3 | ) | |||||
SG&A |
3 | 3 | - | ||||||
Adjusted EBITDA |
5 | (1 | ) | (6 | ) | ||||
|
|||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
1 | 1 | - | ||||||
Operating earnings (loss) |
4 | (2 | ) | (6 | ) | ||||
|
|||||||||
Shipments |
|||||||||
Coated bleached board (000's tonnes) |
44 | 42 | (2 | ) | |||||
Newsprint (000's tonnes) |
59 | 49 | (10 | ) | |||||
Total |
103 | 91 | (12 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Benchmark Prices |
|||||||||
16 pt. Coated bleached board (US $ per short ton) |
1,090 | 1,163 | 73 | ||||||
Newsprint - 48.8 gram East Coast |
|||||||||
(US $ per tonne) |
615 | 605 | (10 | ) |
The Paper segment generated negative adjusted EBITDA of $1 million on sales of $84 million. This compares to adjusted EBITDA of $5 million on sales of $87 million in the same quarter a year ago. The $3 million decline in sales was due to lower shipments of coated bleached board and newsprint, partially offset by higher selling prices.
The coated bleached board market improved year-over-year. The shipments to capacity ratio was 94% compared to 97% in the prior year quarter. The US $ benchmark price for coated bleached board increased by US $73 per short ton. Currency was also a positive as the Canadian dollar averaged US $0.907, an 8.5% decrease from US $0.991 in the year ago quarter. Overall, average selling prices for coated bleached board improved by $118 per tonne, increasing adjusted EBITDA by $5 million. Costs increased by $3 million, primarily for purchased fibre. The newsprint market remained weak with lower North American demand. The shipment to capacity ratio was 81% compared to 99% in the prior year quarter. The US $ benchmark price declined by US $10 per tonne. The Companys average US $ price realizations declined by US $32 per tonne. The weaker Canadian dollar more than offset this decrease and newsprint prices increased by $16 per tonne over the prior year quarter, increasing adjusted EBITDA by $1 million. The cold weather experienced in North America in February and March 2014 led to a shortage of natural gas and indirectly impacted the cost of electricity in the Province of Ontario. To partially mitigate the impact, the Kapuskasing newsprint mill took six days of unplanned downtime in the quarter. The overall impact increased cost by $8 million, including $6 million for energy.
The Paper segment generated an operating loss of $2 million, compared to operating earnings of $4 million in the prior year quarter. The previously noted decrease in adjusted EBITDA led to the reduction in operating results.
-16-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS MARCH 2013 QUARTER |
SEGMENT RESULTS CORPORATE |
March | March | |||||
2013 | 2014 | |||||
Financial ($ millions) |
||||||
General and administrative expenses |
6 | 5 | ||||
Share-based compensation |
- | (1 | ) | |||
Other items: |
||||||
Custodial - idled facilities |
2 | - | ||||
Gain on sale of Chetwynd pulp mill |
- | (1 | ) | |||
Loss on termination of BC defined benefit pension plan |
- | 7 | ||||
Operating expenses |
8 | 10 |
The Company recorded a $1 million credit for share-based compensation in the most recent quarter compared to a nil expense in the prior year quarter. Senior executives currently participate in a long-term incentive plan which entitles participants to potentially receive units that are equal in value to one common share. The units have a defined vesting period and are subject to performance conditions that ultimately determine the amount of units that vest and are earned by plan participants. Non-executive members of the board of directors receive a portion of their fees in the form of Deferred Share Units (DSU). The DSUs vest at specified dates. The period credit/expense for the share-based compensation plan consists of normal periodic variation in the number of units based on anticipated or normal vesting and the change in the value of the Companys share price.
The Corporate segments other items include expenses relating to several permanently idled facilities. The costs relate to custodial, site security, legal and remediation activities. These legacy costs were negligible in the most recent quarter compared to $2 million in the comparable period a year ago.
In March 2014, the Company completed the sale of the Chetwynd, BC, high-yield pulp mill for a nominal amount. The sale generated a $1 million gain as the buyer assumed certain liabilities associated with the facility.
During the March 2014 quarter, the Company terminated its BC defined benefit pension plan and recorded a charge of $7 million. The Company entered into an agreement with an insurance company to settle a $55 million pension obligation for an amount of $62 million, which was equivalent to the amount of plan assets held in trust at the time of the settlement.
-17-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS MARCH 2013 QUARTER |
INTEREST, FOREIGN EXCHANGE AND OTHER |
The following table summarizes interest, foreign exchange and other expenses by component:
$ millions | ||||||
March | March | |||||
2013 | 2014 | |||||
Interest on debt |
10 | 12 | ||||
Capitalized interest |
(2 | ) | (3 | ) | ||
Foreign exchange items |
(1 | ) | (1 | ) | ||
Employee future benefits |
2 | 1 | ||||
Bank charges and other |
1 | - | ||||
10 | 9 |
There were no significant interest expense variances quarter-over-quarter. The interest expense relates primarily to interest on the US $305 million 11.25% senior secured notes maturing in December 2018. The increase in capitalized interest is related to the Temiscaming, QC, specialty cellulose project. Foreign exchange items are primarily caused by gains or losses on the translation of US $ net monetary assets. The charge for employee future benefits relates to interest accretion on net unfunded obligations.
TRANSLATION OF FOREIGN DEBT |
During the March 2014 quarter, the Company recorded a loss of $11 million on the translation of its US $ denominated debt as the relative value of the Canadian dollar decreased from US $0.934 to US $0.904.
During the March 2013 quarter, the Company recorded a loss of $6 million on the translation of its US $ denominated debt as the relative value of the Canadian dollar decreased from US $1.004 to US $0.984.
INCOME TAXES |
The following table reconciles the anticipated income tax expense/recovery based on the statutory rate to the actual income tax expense/recovery:
$ millions | ||||||
March | March | |||||
2013 | 2014 | |||||
Net loss before income taxes |
(25 | ) | (17 | ) | ||
Anticipated income tax recovery |
(6 | ) | (4 | ) | ||
|
||||||
Increase: |
||||||
Difference in statutory rates |
2 | 1 | ||||
Unrecognized tax asset arising from current period losses |
9 | 12 | ||||
Permanent differences and other tax adjustments |
1 | 2 | ||||
Income tax expense |
6 | 11 |
-18-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS MARCH 2013 QUARTER |
During the March 2014 quarter, the Company recorded an income tax expense of $11 million on a loss before income taxes of $17 million. The income tax expense reflected a $15 million unfavourable variance versus an anticipated income tax recovery of $4 million based on the Companys effective tax rate of 26.2% . The difference in statutory income tax rates increased the income tax expense by $1 million. This was caused by the higher corporate tax rate applicable to the Companys French operations. During the March 2014 quarter, the income tax expense was increased by $12 million as the result of the non-recognition of tax assets relating to the Canadian operations based on the financial results for the current quarter. The Company currently has a significant balance of unrecognized tax assets relating to its Canadian operations since it has not been determined that the future realization of these assets is probable. Permanent differences and other tax adjustments increased the income tax expense by $2 million.
During the March 2013 quarter, the Company recorded an income tax expense of $6 million on a loss before income taxes of $25 million. The income tax expense reflected a $12 million unfavourable variance versus an anticipated income tax recovery of $6 million based on the Companys effective tax rate of 26.3% . The difference in statutory income tax rates increased the income tax expense by $2 million. This was caused by the higher corporate tax rate applicable to the Companys French operations. The March 2013 quarter absorbed a $9 million unfavourable variance related to period losses for which no deferred tax asset was recognized. Based on past financial performance, deferred income tax assets of the Companys Canadian operations have not been recognized as it has not been determined that future realization of these assets is probable. Permanent differences and other tax adjustments increased the income tax expense by $1 million.
NET LOSS |
The Company generated a net loss of $28 million or $0.28 per share for the quarter ended March 29, 2014, compared to a net loss of $31 million or $0.31 per share for the quarter ended March 30, 2013. As noted previously, the Companys financial results were impacted by certain specific items. The following table summarizes the impact of these items on the reported financial results. The Company believes it is useful supplemental information as it provides an indication of results excluding the specific items. This supplemental information is not intended as an alternative measure for net earnings as determined by IFRS. The table below contains the gain or loss on translation of foreign debt, which is a recurring item. Because the Company has a substantial amount of US $ denominated debt, relatively minor changes in the value of the Canadian dollar versus the US dollar can lead to large unrealized periodic gains or losses. As well, this item receives capital gain/loss tax treatment and is not tax-affected at regular business income rates.
March 2013 | March 2014 | |||||||||||
$ millions | $ per share | $ millions | $ per share | |||||||||
Net loss as reported - in accordance with IFRS |
(31 | ) | (0.31 | ) | (28 | ) | (0.28 | ) | ||||
Specific items (after-tax): |
||||||||||||
Loss on translation of foreign debt |
5 | 0.05 | 9 | 0.09 | ||||||||
Impairment - Skookumchuck pulp mill |
16 | 0.16 | - | - | ||||||||
Gain on sale of Chetwynd pulp mill |
- | - | (1 | ) | (0.01 | ) | ||||||
BC defined benefit pension plan termination |
- | - | 5 | 0.05 | ||||||||
Costs for permanently idled facilities |
2 | 0.02 | - | - | ||||||||
Unrecognized deferred tax on above items |
7 | 0.07 | 3 | 0.03 | ||||||||
Net loss excluding specific items - not in accordance with IFRS |
(1 | ) | (0.01 | ) | (12 | ) | (0.12 | ) |
-19-
MARCH 2014 QUARTER VS MARCH 2013 QUARTER |
COMPREHENSIVE EARNINGS (LOSS) |
The following table summarizes the impact of items affecting the reported total comprehensive earnings (loss) during the March 2014 quarter and the comparable period a year ago:
$ millions | ||||||
March | March | |||||
2013 | 2014 | |||||
Net loss |
(31 | ) | (28 | ) | ||
Employee future benefit gain (loss) |
68 | (20 | ) | |||
Income tax recovery |
- | 5 | ||||
Foreign currency translation gain (loss) on foreign operations |
(2 | ) | 7 | |||
Total comprehensive earnings (loss) |
35 | (36 | ) |
During the March 2014 quarter, the Company recognized a loss of $20 million relating to the increase of the estimated net obligation for employee future benefits. The average discount rate applied to estimate the present value of future obligations decreased from 4.70% to 4.34%, thereby increasing estimated future obligation by $38 million. The adoption of revised mortality projections further increased estimated present value of future obligations by $14 million. The return on plan assets exceeded the expected return by $32 million, which provided a partial offset to the above item.
During the March 2013 quarter, the Company recognized a gain of $68 million relating to the reduction of the estimated net obligation for employee future benefits. The average discount rate applied to estimate the present value of future obligations increased from 3.69% to 4.14%, thereby reducing estimated future obligation by $42 million. As well, the actual return on plan assets exceeded the expected return by $26 million.
Comprehensive items include gains or losses related to the currency translation of the assets and liabilities of the Companys French and U.S. operations. The gains or losses are generated by changes in the end of period exchange rates. During the March 2014 quarter, the currency translation of the French operations generated a gain of $7 million. In the March 2013 quarter, the currency translation of the French operations generated a loss of $2 million.
-20-
SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2014 VS SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2013 |
CONSOLIDATED SUMMARY |
SALES | |||||||||||||||
$ millions | March | March | Total | Price | Volume & Mix | ||||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | Variance | Variance | |||||||||||
Forest Products |
205 | 211 | 6 | 9 | (3 | ) | |||||||||
Specialty Cellulose Pulp |
223 | 254 | 31 | 12 | 19 | ||||||||||
Paper Pulp |
239 | 135 | (104 | ) | 14 | (118 | ) | ||||||||
Paper |
165 | 164 | (1 | ) | 7 | (8 | ) | ||||||||
Corporate |
6 | 7 | 1 | - | 1 | ||||||||||
|
838 | 771 | (67 | ) | 42 | (109 | ) | ||||||||
Less: Intersegment Sales |
(55 | ) | (55 | ) | - | ||||||||||
Sales |
783 | 716 | (67 | ) |
Sales decreased by $67 million from the same period a year ago. Currency was a positive factor as the Canadian dollar averaged US $0.930, a 7.0% decrease from US $1.000 in the year ago period. Forest Products segment sales increased by $6 million as a result of higher selling prices. Specialty Cellulose Pulp segment sales increased by $31 million due to higher shipments and prices. Paper Pulp segment sales declined by $104 million due primarily to lower shipments. Paper segment sales were relatively unchanged as higher prices offset higher costs.
ADJUSTED EBITDA | |||||||||||||||
$ millions | March | March | Total | Price | Cost & Volume | ||||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | Variance | Variance | |||||||||||
Forest Products |
9 | 1 | (8 | ) | 9 | (17 | ) | ||||||||
Specialty Cellulose Pulp |
32 | 32 | - | 12 | (12 | ) | |||||||||
Paper Pulp |
4 | 3 | (1 | ) | 14 | (15 | ) | ||||||||
Paper |
11 | 6 | (5 | ) | 7 | (12 | ) | ||||||||
Corporate |
(13 | ) | (11 | ) | 2 | - | 2 | ||||||||
43 | 31 | (12 | ) | 42 | (54 | ) |
Adjusted EBITDA declined by $12 million from the prior year period. Forest Products segment adjusted EBITDA declined by $8 million due to higher costs, partially offset by higher selling prices. Specialty Cellulose Pulp segment adjusted EBITDA was unchanged, with higher prices offsetting higher costs. Paper Pulp segment adjusted EBITDA declined by $1 million as higher costs were partially offset by higher prices. Paper segment adjusted EBITDA decreased by $5 million due to higher costs, partially offset by higher prices.
OPERATING EARNINGS (LOSS) | ||||||||||||||||||
Adjusted | ||||||||||||||||||
$ millions | March | March | Total | EBITDA | Depreciation | Other Items | ||||||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | Variance | Variance | Variance | |||||||||||||
Forest Products |
5 | (2 | ) | (7 | ) | (8 | ) | 1 | - | |||||||||
Specialty Cellulose Pulp |
26 | 25 | (1 | ) | - | (1 | ) | - | ||||||||||
Paper Pulp |
(26 | ) | (2 | ) | 24 | (1 | ) | 3 | 22 | |||||||||
Paper |
9 | 4 | (5 | ) | (5 | ) | - | - | ||||||||||
Corporate |
(16 | ) | (3 | ) | 13 | 2 | - | 11 | ||||||||||
(2 | ) | 22 | 24 | (12 | ) | 3 | 33 |
The Company generated operating earnings of $22 million compared to an operating loss of $2 million in the same period a year ago. The improvement in operating results is due primarily to a favourable variance in other items, which more than offset the decrease in adjusted EBITDA. In the most recent six-month period, the Company realized a gain of $20 million from the sale of BC lands. A charge of $7 million was recorded on the termination of the BC defined benefit pension plan. In the prior year period, the Company had absorbed a $22 million charge related to the impairment of the Skookumchuck, NBSK pulp mill.
-21-
SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2014 VS SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2013 |
SEGMENT RESULTS FOREST PRODUCTS |
March | March | ||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | |||||||
Financial ($ millions) |
|||||||||
Sales (1) |
205 | 211 | 6 | ||||||
|
|||||||||
Freight and other deductions |
19 | 20 | (1 | ) | |||||
Lumber export taxes |
1 | - | 1 | ||||||
Cost of sales |
170 | 184 | (14 | ) | |||||
SG&A |
6 | 6 | - | ||||||
Adjusted EBITDA |
9 | 1 | (8 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
4 | 3 | 1 | ||||||
Operating earnings (loss) |
5 | (2 | ) | (7 | ) | ||||
|
|||||||||
Shipments |
|||||||||
SPF lumber (mmbf) |
361 | 346 | (15 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Benchmark Prices |
|||||||||
KD #2 & better delivered G.L. (US $ per mbf) |
455 | 460 | 5 | ||||||
KD stud delivered G.L. (US $ per mbf) |
401 | 385 | (16 | ) | |||||
(1) Includes intersegment sales eliminated on consolidation |
The Forest Products segment generated adjusted EBITDA of $1 million on sales of $211 million. This compares to adjusted EBITDA of $9 million on sales of $205 million in the comparable six-month period of the prior year. Higher selling prices, partially offset by lower lumber shipments, generated the $6 million increase in sales.
Demand for SPF lumber was stable with shipments equal to 81% of capacity, as compared to 80% in the year ago period. US $ benchmark prices for random lumber increased by US $5 per mbf while the benchmark price for stud lumber was down US $16 per mbf. Currency was favourable as the Canadian dollar averaged US $0.930, a 7.0% decline from US $1.000 in the prior year period. As a result, the average selling price of SPF lumber increased by $23 per mbf, increasing adjusted EBITDA by $8 million. Sawmill costs increased by $15 million. Fibre costs accounted for $8 million of the increase.
During the six-month period ended March 2014, the Company did not incur a charge for lumber export taxes on shipments of lumber from its sawmills to the United States, compared to $1 million in the prior year period.
The Forest Products segment generated an operating loss of $2 million, as compared to operating earnings of $5 million in the prior year period. The previously noted decrease in adjusted EBITDA led to the decline in operating results.
-22-
SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2014 VS SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2013 |
SEGMENT RESULTS SPECIALTY CELLULOSE PULP |
March | March | ||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | |||||||
Financial ($ millions) |
|||||||||
Sales - Pulp |
176 | 200 | 24 | ||||||
Sales - Chemicals |
47 | 54 | 7 | ||||||
|
223 | 254 | 31 | ||||||
|
|||||||||
Freight and other deductions |
16 | 21 | (5 | ) | |||||
Cost of sales |
165 | 191 | (26 | ) | |||||
SG&A |
10 | 10 | - | ||||||
Adjusted EBITDA |
32 | 32 | - | ||||||
|
|||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
6 | 7 | (1 | ) | |||||
Operating earnings |
26 | 25 | (1 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Shipments |
|||||||||
Specialty grades (000's tonnes) |
94 | 100 | 6 | ||||||
Viscose grades (000's tonnes) |
19 | 23 | 4 | ||||||
|
113 | 123 | 10 | ||||||
|
|||||||||
Average prices |
|||||||||
Specialty grades (C $ per tonne) |
1,682 | 1,786 | 104 | ||||||
Viscose grades (C $ per tonne) |
956 | 902 | (54 | ) |
The Specialty Cellulose Pulp segment generated adjusted EBITDA of $32 million on sales of $254 million. This compares to adjusted EBITDA of $32 million on sales of $223 million in the year ago period. The $24 million increase in pulp sales was due to higher shipments of pulp and higher prices for specialty grades.
Demand for specialty grades was comparable with the prior year period, while US dollar and euro prices weakened. The $104 per tonne improvement in Canadian dollar prices was largely due to currency as the Canadian dollar weakened by 7.0% versus the US dollar and 12.3% versus the euro. The more favourable rate was not enough to completely offset the 12% decline in US $ prices for viscose grade pulp and prices declined by $54 per tonne. The viscose market remains oversupplied and prices remain relatively low. Overall, pulp pricing improved, increasing adjusted EBITDA by $9 million. Shipments were equal to 79% of capacity as compared to 73% in the prior year period. During the most recent six-month period, the Tartas mill absorbed an extended 12-day annual maintenance shutdown. As well, delays in commissioning new equipment installed during the shutdown affected productivity in the period. Overall, the pulp mill produced 12,100 fewer tonnes and costs increased by $11 million as compared to the prior year six-month period.
The Specialty Cellulose Pulp segment generated operating earnings of $25 million compared to operating earnings of $26 million in the comparable six-month period of the prior year.
-23-
SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2014 VS SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2013 |
SEGMENT RESULTS PAPER PULP |
March | March | ||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | |||||||
Financial ($ millions) |
|||||||||
Sales (1) |
239 | 135 | (104 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Freight and other deductions |
47 | 25 | 22 | ||||||
Cost of sales |
184 | 104 | 80 | ||||||
SG&A |
4 | 3 | 1 | ||||||
Adjusted EBITDA |
4 | 3 | (1 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
8 | 5 | 3 | ||||||
Other item - impairment of Skookumchuck pulp mill |
22 | - | 22 | ||||||
Operating loss |
(26 | ) | (2 | ) | 24 | ||||
|
|||||||||
Shipments |
|||||||||
NBSK pulp (000's tonnes) |
131 | - | (131 | ) | |||||
High-yield pulp (000's tonnes) |
247 | 192 | (55 | ) | |||||
Internal (000's tonnes) |
31 | 29 | (2 | ) | |||||
Total |
409 | 221 | (188 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Benchmark Prices |
|||||||||
BEK - delivered China (US $ per tonne) |
652 | 645 | (7 | ) | |||||
(1) Includes intersegment sales eliminated on consolidation |
The Paper Pulp segment generated adjusted EBITDA of $3 million on sales of $135 million. This compares to adjusted EBITDA of $4 million on sales of $239 million in the year ago period. The $104 million decrease in sales was caused by lower shipments of pulp. The Chetwynd, BC, high-yield pulp mill did not operate during the March 2014 six-month period. In the prior year six-month period, the mill had shipped 14,100 tonnes and had recorded sales of $8 million. In May 2013, the Company completed the sale of its remaining NBSK pulp mill located in Skookumchuck, BC. During the prior year period, the pulp mill had shipped 131,300 tonnes and had recorded sales of $87 million. The balance of the decrease was caused by lower shipments of high-yield pulp.
Market conditions for paper pulp were comparable. Pulp shipments were equal to 78% of capacity as compared to 81% in the prior year six-month period. During the most recent period, export shipments were negatively impacted by winter storms that led to delays and congestion at several East Coast ports normally utilized by the Company. It is anticipated that the short-fall will be made up in the June 2014 quarter. The benchmark price for BEK decreased by US $7 per tonne. However, this decline did not offset high-yield pulp prices, which actually increased by US $18 per tonne over the year ago period. Currency was also a positive factor as the Canadian dollar averaged US $0.930, a 7.0% decline from the year ago period. Overall, Canadian dollar prices for high-yield pulp improved by $63 per tonne increasing adjusted EBITDA by $14 million. Mill level manufacturing costs increased by $3 million primarily for fibre. The sale of the Skookumchuck NBSK pulp mill impacted comparative operating results. In the prior year six-month period, the pulp mill had generated adjusted EBITDA of $11 million.
The Paper Pulp segment generated an operating loss of $2 million compared to an operating loss of $26 million in the comparable six-month period of the prior year. Depreciation expense declined by $3 million as a result of the sale of the Skookumchuck pulp mill. The year ago period had absorbed an impairment charge of $22 million related to the Skookumchuck, NBSK pulp mill.
-24-
SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2014 VS SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2013 |
SEGMENT RESULTS PAPER |
March | March | ||||||||
2013 | 2014 | Variance | |||||||
Financial ($ millions) |
|||||||||
Sales |
165 | 164 | (1 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Freight and other deductions |
22 | 22 | - | ||||||
Cost of sales |
126 | 131 | (5 | ) | |||||
SG&A |
6 | 5 | 1 | ||||||
Adjusted EBITDA |
11 | 6 | (5 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
2 | 2 | - | ||||||
Operating earnings |
9 | 4 | (5 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Shipments |
|||||||||
Coated bleached board (000's tonnes) |
82 | 81 | (1 | ) | |||||
Newsprint (000's tonnes) |
113 | 102 | (11 | ) | |||||
Total |
195 | 183 | (12 | ) | |||||
|
|||||||||
Benchmark Prices |
|||||||||
16 pt. Coated bleached board (US $ per short ton) |
1,100 | 1,159 | 59 | ||||||
Newsprint - 48.8 gram East Coast |
|||||||||
(US $ per tonne) |
628 | 605 | (23 | ) |
The Paper segment generated adjusted EBITDA of $6 million on sales of $164 million. This compares to adjusted EBITDA of $11 million on sales of $165 million in the same period a year ago. Sales were relatively unchanged with higher prices offsetting lower shipments.
The coated bleached board market improved year-over-year. The shipments to capacity ratio was 90% compared to 91% in the prior year six-month period. The US $ benchmark price for coated bleached board increased by US $59 per short ton. Currency was also a positive as the Canadian dollar averaged US $0.930, a 7.0% decrease from US $1.000 in the prior year period. Overall, average selling prices for coated bleached board increased by $77 per tonne, increasing adjusted EBITDA by $7 million. Costs increased by $4 million, primarily for fibre and freight. The newsprint market remained weak with lower North American demand. The shipment to capacity ratio was 85% compared to 94% in the first half of the prior fiscal year. The US $ benchmark price declined by US $23 per tonne. The weaker Canadian dollar offset this decrease and newsprint prices remained relatively unchanged. The cold weather experienced in North America in February and March 2014 led to a shortage of natural gas and indirectly impacted the cost of electricity in the Province of Ontario. To partially mitigate the impact, the Kapuskasing newsprint mill took six days of unplanned downtime in the period. The overall impact increased costs by $8 million, including $5 million for energy.
The Paper segment generated operating earnings of $4 million, compared to operating earnings of $9 million in the prior year period. The previously noted decrease in adjusted EBITDA led to the lower operating earnings.
-25-
SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2014 VS SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2013 |
SEGMENT RESULTS CORPORATE |
March | March | |||||
2013 | 2014 | |||||
Financial ($ millions) |
||||||
General and administrative expenses |
12 | 11 | ||||
Share-based compensation |
1 | - | ||||
Other items: |
||||||
Custodial - idled facilities |
5 | 3 | ||||
Gain on sale of BC office |
(2 | ) | - | |||
Gain on sale of BC lands |
- | (20 | ) | |||
Reorganization - severance costs |
- | 3 | ||||
Gain on sale of Chetwynd pulp mill |
- | (1 | ) | |||
Loss on termination of BC defined benefit pension plan |
- | 7 | ||||
Operating expenses |
16 | 3 |
The Company recorded a nil expense for share-based compensation in the most recent six-month period, compared to a charge of $1 million in the comparable period a year ago. Senior executives currently participate in a long-term incentive plan which entitles participants to potentially receive units that are equal in value to one common share. The units have a defined vesting period and are subject to performance conditions that ultimately determine the amount of units that vest and are earned by plan participants. Non-executive members of the board of directors receive a portion of their fees in the form of Deferred Share Units (DSU). The DSUs vest at specified dates. The period credit/expense for the share-based compensation plan consists of normal periodic variation in the number of units based on anticipated or normal vesting and the change in the value of the Companys share price.
The Corporate segments other items include expenses relating to several permanently idled facilities. The costs relate to custodial, site security, legal and remediation activities. These legacy costs totalled $3 million in the most recent period compared to $5 million a year ago.
During the prior year period, the Company sold the Cranbrook, BC, office and realized a gain of $2 million.
In September 2013, the Company launched its BC Land Sales Initiative. The Company has set an objective of realizing up to $75 million in land sales by December 2014. During the December 2013 quarter, the Company closed the first two BC land sales transactions for total proceeds of $23 million and recorded a gain of $20 million. The remaining BC lands have been classified as assets held for sale.
During the December 2013 quarter, the Company reorganized certain functions and roles and recorded a charge of $3 million relating to severance costs associated with personnel reductions.
In March 2014, the Company completed the sale of the Chetwynd, BC, high-yield pulp mill for a nominal amount. The sale generated a $1 million gain as the buyer assumed certain liabilities associated with the facility.
During the March 2014 quarter, the Company terminated its BC defined benefit pension plan and recorded a charge of $7 million. The Company entered into an agreement with an insurance company to settle a $55 million pension obligation for an amount of $62 million, which was equivalent to the amount of plan assets held in trust at the time of the settlement.
-26-
SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2014 VS SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2013 |
INTEREST, FOREIGN EXCHANGE AND OTHER
The following table summarizes interest, foreign exchange and other expenses by component:
$ millions | ||||||
March | March | |||||
2013 | 2014 | |||||
Interest on debt | 21 | 23 | ||||
Capitalized interest | (4 | ) | (7 | ) | ||
Foreign exchange items | (1 | ) | (1 | ) | ||
Employee future benefits | 5 | 2 | ||||
Bank charges and other | 1 | 1 | ||||
22 | 18 |
There were no significant interest expense variances. The interest expense relates primarily to interest on the US $305 million 11.25% senior secured notes maturing in December 2018. The increase in capitalized interest is related to the Temiscaming, QC, specialty cellulose project. Foreign exchange items are primarily caused by gains or losses on the translation of US $ net monetary assets. The charge for employee future benefits relates to interest accretion on net unfunded obligations.
TRANSLATION OF FOREIGN DEBT |
During the six-month period ended March 2014, the Company recorded a loss of $23 million on the translation of its US $ denominated debt as the relative value of the Canadian dollar decreased from US $0.971 to US $0.904.
During the six-month period ended March 2013, the Company recorded a loss of $10 million on the translation of its US $ denominated debt as the relative value of the Canadian dollar decreased from US $1.017 to US $0.984.
INCOME TAXES |
The following table reconciles the anticipated income tax expense/recovery based on the statutory rate to the actual income tax expense/recovery:
$ millions | ||||||
March | March | |||||
2013 | 2014 | |||||
Net loss before income taxes |
(34 | ) | (19 | ) | ||
Anticipated income tax recovery |
(8 | ) | (5 | ) | ||
|
||||||
Increase: |
||||||
Difference in statutory rates |
4 | 2 | ||||
Unrecognized tax asset arising from current period losses |
15 | 6 | ||||
Permanent differences and other tax adjustments |
1 | 4 | ||||
Income tax expense |
12 | 7 |
-27-
SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2014 VS SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2013 |
During the six-month period ended March 2014, the Company recorded an income tax expense of $7 million on a loss before income taxes of $19 million. The income tax expense reflected a $12 million unfavourable variance versus an anticipated income tax recovery of $5 million based on the Companys effective tax rate of 26.2% . The difference in statutory income tax rates increased the income tax expense by $2 million. This was caused by the higher corporate tax rate applicable to the Companys French operations. During the six-month period ended March 2014, the income tax expense was increased by $6 million as the result of the non-recognition of tax assets relating to the Canadian operations based on the financial results for the current period. The Company currently has a significant balance of unrecognized tax assets relating to its Canadian operations since it has not been determined that the future realization of these assets is probable. Permanent differences and other tax adjustments increased the tax expense by $4 million.
During the six-month period ended March 2013, the Company recorded an income tax expense of $12 million on a loss before income taxes of $34 million. The income tax expense reflected a $20 million unfavourable variance versus an anticipated income tax recovery of $8 million based on the Companys effective tax rate of 26.3% . The difference in statutory income tax rates increased the income tax expense by $4 million. This was caused by the higher corporate tax rate applicable to the Companys French operations. The six-month period ended March 2013 absorbed a $15 million unfavourable variance related to period losses for which no deferred tax asset was recognized. Based on past financial performance, deferred income tax assets of the Companys Canadian operations have not been recognized as it has not been determined that future realization of these assets is probable. Permanent differences and other tax adjustments increased the tax expense by $1 million.
NET LOSS |
The Company generated a net loss of $26 million or $0.26 per share for the six-month period ended March 29, 2014, compared to a net loss of $46 million or $0.46 per share for the six-month period ended March 30, 2013. As noted previously, the Companys financial results were impacted by certain specific items. The following table summarizes the impact of these items on the reported financial results. The Company believes it is useful supplemental information as it provides an indication of results excluding the specific items. This supplemental information is not intended as an alternative measure for net earnings as determined by IFRS. The table below contains the gain or loss on translation of foreign debt, which is a recurring item. Because the Company has a substantial amount of US $ denominated debt, relatively minor changes in the value of the Canadian dollar versus the US dollar can lead to large unrealized periodic gains or losses. As well, this item receives capital gain/loss tax treatment and is not tax-affected at regular business income rates.
March 2013 | March 2014 | |||||||||||
$ millions | $ per share | $ millions | $ per share | |||||||||
Net loss as reported - in accordance with IFRS |
(46 | ) | (0.46 | ) | (26 | ) | (0.26 | ) | ||||
Specific items (after-tax): |
||||||||||||
Loss on translation of foreign debt |
9 | 0.09 | 20 | 0.20 | ||||||||
Impairment - Skookumchuck pulp mill |
16 | 0.16 | - | - | ||||||||
Gain on sale of BC office |
(1 | ) | (0.01 | ) | - | - | ||||||
Gain on sale of BC lands |
- | - | (15 | ) | (0.15 | ) | ||||||
Reorganization - severance costs |
- | - | 3 | 0.03 | ||||||||
Gain on sale of Chetwynd pulp mill |
- | - | (1 | ) | (0.01 | ) | ||||||
BC defined benefit pension plan termination |
- | - | 5 | 0.05 | ||||||||
Costs for permanently idled facilities |
4 | 0.04 | 2 | 0.02 | ||||||||
Unrecognized deferred tax on above items |
8 | 0.08 | 1 | 0.01 | ||||||||
Net loss excluding specific items - not in accordance with IFRS |
(10 | ) | (0.10 | ) | (11 | ) | (0.11 | ) |
-28-
SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2014 VS SIX MONTHS ENDED MARCH 2013 |
COMPREHENSIVE EARNINGS (LOSS) |
The following table summarizes the impact of items affecting the reported total comprehensive earnings (loss) during the six-month period ended March 2014 and the comparable period a year ago:
$ millions | ||||||
March | March | |||||
2013 | 2014 | |||||
Net loss |
(46 | ) | (26 | ) | ||
Employee future benefit gain |
73 | 9 | ||||
Income tax expense |
- | (2 | ) | |||
Foreign currency translation gain on foreign operations |
4 | 18 | ||||
Total comprehensive earnings (loss) |
31 | (1 | ) |
During the six-month period ended March 2014, the Company recognized a gain of $9 million relating to the reduction of the estimated net obligation for employee future benefits. The average discount rate applied to estimate the present value of future obligations decreased from 4.60% to 4.34%, thereby increasing estimated future obligation by $27 million. The adoption of revised mortality projections further increased the estimated present value of future obligations by $14 million. The return on plan assets exceeded the expected return by $50 million, more than offsetting the two previously noted items.
During the six-month period ended March 2013, the Company recognized a gain of $73 million relating to the reduction of the estimated net obligation for employee future benefits. The average discount rate applied to estimate the present value of future obligations increased from 3.69% to 4.14%, thereby reducing estimated future obligation by $42 million. As well, the actual return on plan assets exceeded the expected return by $31 million.
Comprehensive items include gains or losses related to the currency translation of the assets and liabilities of the Companys French and U.S. operations. The gains or losses are generated by changes in the end of period exchange rates. During the six-month period ended March 2014, the currency translation of the French operations generated a gain of $17 million and the currency translation of U.S. operations generated a gain of $1 million. In the prior year period, the currency translation of the French operations generated a gain of $5 million. The currency translation of the U.S. operations generated a loss of $1 million.
-29-
SELECTED QUARTERLY INFORMATION |
Selected quarterly information for the eight most recently completed fiscal quarters is disclosed below.
$ millions (except as otherwise noted) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Jun 12 | (1) | Sept 12 | (1) | Dec 12 | Mar 13 | Jun 13 | Sept 13 | Dec 13 | Mar 14 | |||||||||||||||
Sales |
415 | 443 | 376 | 407 | 399 | 352 | 354 | 362 | ||||||||||||||||
Adjusted EBITDA |
27 | 23 | 19 | 24 | 30 | 24 | 13 | 18 | ||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
11 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 8 | 9 | ||||||||||||||||
Other items |
2 | 51 | 1 | 24 | 3 | 1 | (14 | ) | 6 | |||||||||||||||
Operating earnings (loss) |
14 | (41 | ) | 7 | (9 | ) | 18 | 12 | 19 | 3 | ||||||||||||||
Net earnings (loss) |
(5 | ) | (47 | ) | (15 | ) | (31 | ) | (7 | ) | 14 | 2 | (28 | ) | ||||||||||
Basic and fully diluted net earnings (loss) per share ($) |
(0.05 | ) | (0.47 | ) | (0.15 | ) | (0.31 | ) | (0.07 | ) | 0.14 | 0.02 | (0.28 | ) | ||||||||||
Comprehensive earnings (loss) |
(10 | ) | (86 | ) | (4 | ) | 35 | 35 | 50 | 35 | (36 | ) | ||||||||||||
(1) Not restated for IAS 19 |
FINANCIAL POSITION |
($ millions) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Fiscal 2013 | Fiscal 2014 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Dec 12 | Mar 13 | Jun 13 | Sept 13 | Dec 13 | Mar 14 | Jun 14 | Sept 14 | |||||||||||||||||
Cash flow from operations before working capital changes |
(1 | ) | 11 | 16 | 10 | 1 | (5 | ) | - | - | ||||||||||||||
Less: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Additions to property, plant and equipment |
34 | 26 | 30 | 47 | 34 | 42 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
Interest on debt |
11 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 11 | 12 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
Free cash flow (negative) |
(46 | ) | (25 | ) | (25 | ) | (47 | ) | (44 | ) | (59 | ) | - | - |
Cash Flow Operations
Cash flow from operations before working capital changes for the first six months of fiscal 2014 was negative $4 million, compared to positive $10 million in the comparable period of the prior year. After allowing for capital expenditures of $76 million and interest on debt of $23 million, free cash flow for the first six months of fiscal 2014 was negative $103 million compared to negative $71 million in the prior year period. During the most recent period, non-cash working capital items used $33 million as compared to $30 million in the comparable period a year ago. The seasonal increase in forest products inventory used $48 million in the first half of fiscal 2014 as compared to a $34 million increase in the comparative period of the prior year. The current year period also saw a $21 million increase in paper pulp inventories as unusually harsh weather delayed export shipments.
Capital Expenditures
During the first six months of fiscal 2014, capital expenditures totalled $76 million, as compared to $60 million in the comparable period of the prior year. The Company estimates that annual capital expenditures of $35 million to $40 million are required to adequately maintain its facilities. The higher level of capital expenditures relates to one relatively large capital project. In March 2012, the Company announced a major capital investment to upgrade its specialty cellulose mill in Temiscaming, Quebec. The project involves the replacement of three low-pressure boilers with a single new high-pressure boiler designed to burn waste sulphite liquor generated by the specialty cellulose manufacturing process. The project also includes the installation of a new 50-megawatt electrical turbine. The total estimated cost of the project is currently $235 million. During the first six months of fiscal 2014, $64 million was spent on the project, bringing total cumulative project expenditures to $201 million.
-30-
FINANCIAL POSITION |
The completion of the boiler portion of the project is scheduled for May 2014 and the start-up of the turbine should occur in October 2014. The Company anticipates that the Temiscaming specialty cellulose project will improve annual adjusted EBITDA by approximately $48 million. The improvement will include approximately $28 million of incremental electricity revenues, $7 million of operating and maintenance cost reduction and $13 million of productivity and margin enhancements associated with the production increase of 15,000 tonnes of specialty pulp per year.
The following table summarizes capital expenditures by segment:
Six months ended | March | March | ||||
$ millions | 2013 | 2014 | ||||
Forest Products |
2 | 3 | ||||
Specialty Cellulose Pulp - Cogen project |
35 | 64 | ||||
Specialty Cellulose Pulp - Other |
13 | 6 | ||||
Paper Pulp |
6 | 2 | ||||
Paper |
3 | 1 | ||||
Corporate |
1 | - | ||||
60 | 76 |
Liquidity
The Company has set an objective of maintaining a minimum liquidity of $135 million to $150 million. At the end of March 2014, the Company had total cash, including restricted cash, of $31 million plus unused operating lines of $38 million, for total liquidity of $69 million. At September 2013, the date of the last audited financial statements, the Company had net cash of $74 million and unused operating lines of $35 million, for total liquidity of $109 million.
The Company is actively pursuing its BC Land Sales Initiative as well as options to increase liquidity. The Company has recently entered into an agreement to sell additional parcels for cash proceeds of $35 million. The transaction is conditional on the purchaser obtaining adequate financing. There can be no assurance that the transaction will be consummated. The Company is also pursuing other alternatives to enhance liquidity including, but not limited to, the potential sale of other assets, the refinancing of existing indebtedness and other capital market initiatives. There can be no assurance that the Company will be successful in its efforts. The Companys liquidity is also dependent on generating a sufficient amount of adjusted EBITDA and cash flow from operations. These can be significantly impacted by changes to the relative value of the Canadian dollar, product selling prices and the cost of inputs utilized in manufacturing processes. Based on existing liquidity, current initiatives to obtain additional liquidity and anticipated future operating cash flow, the Company believes that it will be able to adequately fund its operations and meet its future obligations as they become due. This determination could be impacted by economic, financial, competitive, legislative and regulatory factors, as well as other events, that are beyond the Companys control.
The Company has entered into two secured term loan facilities totalling $133 million to fund a portion of the $235 million Temiscaming Cogen project. As at March 2014, the Company had utilized $100 million on the Cogen project debt. There remained $33 million available. There remains an amount of $34 million to be spent over the next three quarters to complete the Temiscaming Cogen project. During this period, the Companys liquidity will likely remain below its stated objective.
The following table summarizes operating line availability and utilization:
Operating Lines | |||||||||
$ millions | September | December | March | ||||||
2013 | 2013 | 2014 | |||||||
Borrowing base |
168 | 186 | 200 | ||||||
Less: availability reserve |
(20 | ) | (20 | ) | (28 | ) | |||
Net availability |
148 | 166 | 172 | ||||||
|
|||||||||
Outstanding letters of credit |
(56 | ) | (57 | ) | (53 | ) | |||
Amount drawn |
(57 | ) | (61 | ) | (81 | ) | |||
Unused amount |
35 | 48 | 38 |
-31-
FINANCIAL POSITION |
In March 2011, the Company entered into a five-year $200 million ABL (asset-based loan) facility expiring in March 2016. In March 2013, the Company disclosed that it had reached an agreement with existing ABL lenders to amend and extend the facility. The maturity date was extended by one year and is now set to expire in March 2017. The Company also negotiated a reduction of the aggregate revolving loan commitment from $200 million to $175 million and related adjustments to certain thresholds due to a reduction in the number of mills it operates. The ABL has a first priority charge over the receivables and inventories of the Companys Canadian operations. The facility is subject to a permanent availability reserve of $15 million. This amount is increased to $25 million if the Companys trailing 12-month adjusted EBITDA falls below $60 million. There is also a variable reserve, which totalled $13 million at the end of the March 2014 quarter.
The outstanding letters of credit constitute security for various operating items, principally the unfunded portion of supplementary retirement plans, future landfill closure liabilities and performance guarantees related to electricity generation agreements.
Long-term debt
Fiscal 2013 | Fiscal 2014 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Dec 12 | Mar 13 | Jun 13 | Sept 13 | Dec 13 | Mar 14 | Jun 14 | Sept 14 | |||||||||||||||||
Net debt / total capitalization |
50% | 55% | 52% | 52% | 55% | 59% | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
Adjusted EBITDA / interest on indebtedness (times) |
1.9 | 2.4 | 3.0 | 2.4 | 1.3 | 1.6 | - | - |
The Companys long-term objective is to maintain the net debt to total capitalization ratio at 40% or less. A strong balance sheet provides the Company with the ability to access capital markets at favourable rates. The net debt to total capitalization ratio of the Company was 59% as at March 2014, as compared to 52% at the end of the prior fiscal year. The increase is due primarily to increased debt levels to finance the previously noted Temiscaming specialty cellulose project. The Company anticipates that the net debt to total capitalization ratio will remain in excess of its target until the Temiscaming project is completed and begins to generate the projected incremental adjusted EBITDA.
In March 2012, the Company entered into a $75 million term loan facility to assist with the financing of the previously mentioned Temiscaming, Quebec, specialty cellulose project. The interest rate on the facility is 5.5% . The loan has a 15½ -year term consisting of a 42-month construction or drawdown period followed by a 12-year amortization period. The term of the loan will be shortened by three years if the Company does not complete certain future capital expenditures at the Temiscaming specialty cellulose mill. The loan is secured by a second ranking charge on the project assets. The Company has also granted the lender a five-year option starting on the first loan disbursement date to acquire 3 million common shares of Tembec at a price of $7 per share. This option expires on August 30, 2017. As at the end of March 2014, the Company had drawn $60 million of the $75 million available. During the September 2013 quarter, the Company negotiated an additional tranche of project financing, effectively increasing the total funding from the lender to $93 million. This new $18 million tranche is also secured by a second ranking charge on project assets and the interest rate remains at 5.5% . This second tranche is repayable in 48 equal monthly instalments beginning in April 2016. In connection with the additional funding, the Company granted the lender a five-year option to acquire 712,000 common shares of Tembec at a price of $3.783 per share. It will vest on the first loan disbursement date of the second $18 million tranche, which cannot occur until the Company has drawn the entire $75 million of the first tranche. This option expires on December 11, 2018.
-32-
FINANCIAL POSITION |
In June 2012, the Company entered into a $30 million term loan facility to assist with the financing of the previously noted specialty cellulose project in Temiscaming, Quebec. The interest rate on this loan is the greater of 6.35% and the yield on equivalent terms Government of Canada bonds plus 4.25% at the date the funds are advanced. The loan is secured by a first ranking charge on the project assets. In July 2012, the Company received $20 million representing the first advance under the facility. The interest rate on this advance was set at 6.35% . During the September 2013 quarter, the Company increased the size of the facility to $40 million. As part of the loan amendment, the terms of the remaining $10 million to be drawn on the original facility were amended to correspond to those of the new $10 million in funding. The initial $20 million drawn in July 2012 is repayable in blended monthly instalments over an eight-year period beginning in July 2014, with a balloon payment of $12 million to be repaid in July 2022. During the December 2013 quarter, the Company received the remaining $20 million on the facility. This second tranche bears interest at a rate of 6.86% and is repayable in blended monthly instalments over a period of eight years beginning in November 2014, with a balloon payment of $12 million to be repaid in October 2022. Of the total $40 million drawn on the facility, the Company does not currently have access to $5 million, which is being held in reserve pending the attainment of certain milestones related to the specialty cellulose project. The amount is shown as restricted cash on the consolidated balance sheet. The Company anticipates that the funds will become available in the June 2014 quarter.
Credit Ratings
Moodys Investors Service (Moodys) has assigned a B3 rating to the senior secured notes and the same level for the Companys corporate credit rating. Standard and Poors (S&P) has assigned a CCC+ rating to the senior secured notes as well as the Companys corporate credit rating. Moodys has a negative outlook with respect to its rating. S&P has a positive outlook with respect to its rating.
CAPITAL STOCK INFORMATION |
As at April 28, 2014, issued and outstanding capital shares consisted of 100,000,000 common shares (100,000,000 as at September 28, 2013). During the December 2012 quarter, the Company granted a lender a five-year option to acquire 3 million common shares at a price of $7 per share. The option expires on August 30, 2017. During the December 2013 quarter, the Company granted the same lender a five-year option to acquire 712,000 common shares at a price of $3.783 per share. The option expires on December 11, 2018.
INTERNAL CONTROLS OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING |
During the quarter ended March 29, 2014, the Company did not make any changes to its internal controls over financial reporting that would have materially affected, or would likely materially affect, such controls.
SUBSEQUENT EVENT |
On April 25, 2014, the Company announced the conditional sale of 49,500 hectares of land in BC for a price of $35 million. The Company would also be entitled to additional payments of at least $2 million. The closing of the sale is conditional on the purchaser obtaining adequate financing. There can be no assurance that the transaction will be consummated.
The transaction is part of the previously announced BC Land Sale Initiative. The Company has set an objective of realizing up to $75 million in land sales by December 2014. To date, the Company has realized a total of $23 million. Assuming that the aforementioned transactions closed as contemplated, total land sales will have reached $60 million, including the $2 million of deferred payments. The Company owns a further 7,433 hectares of lands in British Columbia for which it actively continues to solicit potential buyers. Based on transactions to date, the Company is reducing its objective and now expects to realize up to $70 million in land sales by December 2014. There can be no assurance that the Company will attain the stated objective or that it will do so within the specified time period.
-33-
OUTLOOK |
Overall, the March 2014 quarterly results were lower than anticipated. The relatively harsh winter conditions experienced in Eastern Canada and the U.S. Northeast led to higher energy costs, reduced productivity at certain facilities and delays in offshore shipments. The combined effect reduced quarterly adjusted EBITDA and operating earnings by approximately $10 million. The weaker Canadian dollar provided a partial offset. The Specialty Cellulose segment results improved by $4 million due to lower costs at the Tartas mill. The annual maintenance outage combined with a difficult start-up of a new bleaching tower led to increased costs in the prior quarter. The decrease in euro and US dollar specialty grade prices occurred in January, as previously disclosed. However, the weaker Canadian dollar largely offset the negative impact on specialty cellulose sales. Currency also generated the improvement in viscose grade prices. This market remains oversupplied and US dollar prices are relatively low. The Specialty Cellulose segment should generate similar results in the June 2014 quarter. The improved results in the Forest Products segment were also currency driven as the lumber markets went sideways and US dollar prices were similar quarter-over-quarter. Stud lumber prices continued to lag random length lumber prices by a considerable margin. Improved demand and prices are anticipated in the June 2014 quarter. The summer months are also lower cost periods for the sawmills. The Paper Pulp segment results saw a small improvement, with higher prices partially offset by lower shipments due to weather related issues. The Company anticipates that it will make up most of the shipment shortfall in the June 2014 quarter. The Paper segment performance was the most negatively impacted by weather related issues and posted its lowest quarterly results in nearly five years. The cold weather led to natural gas shortages and higher prices. This in turn led to very high electricity prices in the Province of Ontario, significantly increasing costs at the Kapuskasing newsprint facility. A return to profitability is anticipated in the June 2014 quarter as energy costs decline with the warmer weather.
The Company continues with its capital expenditure program, with a strong emphasis on its two specialty cellulose mills. The cornerstone of the program is the high-pressure boiler and turbine currently under construction at the Temiscaming, Quebec, site. The project will materially improve the mills cost structure and margins. Of the total forecast cost of $235 million, $201 million has been spent on the Temiscaming specialty cellulose project to the end of the March 2014 quarter. In September 2013, the Company launched its BC Lands Sale Initiative. The Company closed the first two lands sales transactions for total proceeds of $23 million in the December 2013 quarter. The Company recently announced the conditional sale of additional parcels for proceeds of $35 million and a further $2 million in future payments. The sale is conditional on the purchaser obtaining adequate financing. The objective is to realize up to $70 million in land sales by December 2014 and considerable effort will be deployed over the next few quarters to attain this objective.
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE & OTHER DATA |
Fiscal 2013 | Fiscal 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Dec 12 | Mar 13 | Jun 13 | Sep 13 | Dec 13 | Mar 14 | Jun 14 | Sep 14 | ||||||||||||||||||
Shares outstanding - end of quarter (millions) | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | - | - | |||||||||||||||||
Book value per share ($) | 0.99 | 1.34 | 1.69 | 2.19 | 2.54 | 2.18 | - | - | |||||||||||||||||
Foreign exchange: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
1 C $ = US $ | - average | 1.009 | 0.991 | 0.977 | 0.963 | 0.952 | 0.907 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
- period end | 1.004 | 0.984 | 0.951 | 0.971 | 0.934 | 0.904 | - | - | |||||||||||||||||
1 euro = US $ | - average | 1.297 | 1.319 | 1.307 | 1.326 | 1.360 | 1.371 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
- period end | 1.322 | 1.282 | 1.302 | 1.353 | 1.374 | 1.375 | - | - | |||||||||||||||||
1 euro = C $ | - average | 1.286 | 1.332 | 1.337 | 1.377 | 1.429 | 1.512 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
- period end | 1.317 | 1.302 | 1.369 | 1.393 | 1.471 | 1.521 | - | - |
-34-
DEFINITIONS NON-IFRS FINANCIAL MEASURES |
The following summarizes non-IFRS financial measures utilized in the MD&A. As there is no generally accepted method of calculating these financial measures, they may not be comparable to similar measures reported by other companies.
Adjusted EBITDA refers to earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation, amortization and other items. Since the Company excludes other items such as gains and losses on significant asset disposals, restructuring charges and custodial costs for permanently idled facilities, it differs from EBITDA. Adjusted EBITDA does not have any standardized meaning according to IFRS. The Company defines adjusted EBITDA as sales less cost of sales and selling, general and administrative expenses, meaning it represents operating earnings before depreciation, amortization and other items. The Company considers adjusted EBITDA to be a useful indicator of the financial performance of the Company, the business segments and the individual business units. The most comparable financial measure is operating earnings or loss. The following table is a reconciliation of quarterly operating earnings to the Companys definition of adjusted EBITDA:
$ millions | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Fiscal 2013 | Fiscal 2014 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Dec 12 | Mar 13 | Jun 13 | Sep 13 | Dec 13 | Mar 14 | Jun 14 | Sep 14 | |||||||||||||||||
Operating earnings (loss) |
7 | (9 | ) | 18 | 12 | 19 | 3 | - | - | |||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
11 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 8 | 9 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
Other items |
1 | 24 | 3 | 1 | (14 | ) | 6 | - | - | |||||||||||||||
Adjusted EBITDA |
19 | 24 | 30 | 24 | 13 | 18 | - | - |
Free cash flow refers to cash provided by operating activities before changes in non-cash working capital balances less interest expense and capital expenditures. Working capital changes are excluded as they are often seasonal and temporary in nature. The Company considers free cash flow to be a useful indicator of its ability to generate discretionary cash flow, thereby improving its overall liquidity position.
Net debt refers to debt less cash, restricted cash and cash equivalents.
Total capitalization refers to net debt plus deferred tax liabilities, employee future benefit liabilities, provisions, other long-term liabilities, and shareholders equity.
Net debt to total capitalization is used by the Company to measure its financial leverage.
$ millions | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Fiscal 2013 | Fiscal 2014 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Dec 12 | (1) | Mar 13 | (1) | Jun 13 | Sep 13 | Dec 13 | Mar 14 | Jun 14 | Sep 14 | |||||||||||||||
Long-term debt |
348 | 353 | 365 | 369 | 414 | 430 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
Net unamortized financing costs |
16 | 16 | 17 | 17 | 17 | 17 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
Current portion of long-term debt |
16 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 19 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
Operating bank loans / Bank indebtedness |
69 | 86 | 57 | 57 | 61 | 81 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
Less: total cash |
(57 | ) | (35 | ) | (94 | ) | (74 | ) | (52 | ) | (31 | ) | - | - | ||||||||||
Net debt |
392 | 436 | 361 | 385 | 456 | 516 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Long-term liabilities |
279 | 210 | 167 | 141 | 122 | 137 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
Shareholders' equity |
99 | 134 | 169 | 219 | 254 | 218 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
Total capitalization |
770 | 780 | 697 | 745 | 832 | 871 | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net debt to total capitalization ratio |
51% | 56% | 52% | 52% | 55% | 59% | - | - | ||||||||||||||||
(1) Ratio is calculated including liabilities classified as "held for sale" |
-35-
TEMBEC INC. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS |
(unaudited) (in millions of Canadian dollars)
Sept. 28, | ||||||
Mar. 29, | 2013 | |||||
|
2014 | (note 2 | ) | |||
|
||||||
ASSETS |
||||||
Current assets: |
||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 23 | $ | 73 | ||
Restricted cash |
8 | 1 | ||||
Trade and other receivables |
150 | 157 | ||||
Income tax receivable |
3 | - | ||||
Inventories (note 3) |
312 | 237 | ||||
Prepaid expenses |
8 | 6 | ||||
Assets classified as held for sale |
7 | 7 | ||||
|
511 | 481 | ||||
Property, plant and equipment (note 4) |
572 | 496 | ||||
Biological assets |
2 | 5 | ||||
Employee future benefits |
32 | 24 | ||||
Other long-term receivables |
10 | 10 | ||||
Deferred tax assets |
6 | 5 | ||||
|
$ | 1,133 | $ | 1,021 | ||
|
||||||
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY |
||||||
Current liabilities: |
||||||
Operating bank loans (note 5) |
$ | 81 | $ | 57 | ||
Trade, other payables and accrued charges |
232 | 195 | ||||
Interest payable |
11 | 10 | ||||
Income tax payable |
- | 8 | ||||
Provisions |
5 | 6 | ||||
Current portion of long-term debt (note 6) |
19 | 16 | ||||
|
348 | 292 | ||||
|
||||||
Long-term debt (note 6) |
430 | 369 | ||||
Provisions |
11 | 12 | ||||
Employee future benefits |
124 | 127 | ||||
Other long-term liabilities |
2 | 2 | ||||
|
915 | 802 | ||||
Shareholders' equity: |
||||||
Share capital |
567 | 567 | ||||
Deficit |
(373 | ) | (354 | ) | ||
Accumulated other comprehensive earnings |
24 | 6 | ||||
|
218 | 219 | ||||
|
$ | 1,133 | $ | 1,021 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these interim consolidated financial statements.
- 36 -
TEMBEC INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF NET EARNINGS (LOSS) |
Quarters and six months ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013
(unaudited) (in millions of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
Quarters | Six months | |||||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | 2013 | |||||||||
(note 2 | ) | (note 2 | ) | |||||||||
Sales |
$ | 362 | $ | 407 | $ | 716 | $ | 783 | ||||
Freight and other deductions |
44 | 54 | 88 | 104 | ||||||||
Lumber export taxes |
(1 | ) | - | - | 1 | |||||||
Cost of sales (excluding depreciation and amortization) |
284 | 310 | 562 | 596 | ||||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
18 | 19 | 35 | 38 | ||||||||
Share-based compensation |
(1 | ) | - | - | 1 | |||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
9 | 9 | 17 | 20 | ||||||||
Other items (note 8) |
6 | 24 | (8 | ) | 25 | |||||||
Operating earnings (loss) |
3 | (9 | ) | 22 | (2 | ) | ||||||
|
||||||||||||
Interest, foreign exchange and other |
9 | 10 | 18 | 22 | ||||||||
Exchange loss on long-term debt |
11 | 6 | 23 | 10 | ||||||||
Net finance costs (note 9) |
20 | 16 | 41 | 32 | ||||||||
Loss before income taxes |
(17 | ) | (25 | ) | (19 | ) | (34 | ) | ||||
|
||||||||||||
Income tax expense (note 10) |
11 | 6 | 7 | 12 | ||||||||
Net loss |
$ | (28 | ) | $ | (31 | ) | $ | (26 | ) | $ | (46 | ) |
|
||||||||||||
Basic and diluted net loss in dollars per share (note 7) |
$ | (0.28 | ) | $ | (0.31 | ) | $ | (0.26 | ) | $ | (0.46 | ) |
TEMBEC INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE EARNINGS (LOSS) |
Quarters and six months ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013
(unaudited) (in millions of Canadian dollars)
Quarters | Six months | |||||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | 2013 | |||||||||
|
(note 2 | ) | (note 2 | ) | ||||||||
Net loss |
$ | (28 | ) | $ | (31 | ) | $ | (26 | ) | $ | (46 | ) |
|
||||||||||||
Other comprehensive earnings (loss), net of income taxes: |
||||||||||||
Items that will never be reclassified to earnings (loss): |
||||||||||||
Defined benefit pension plans and other benefit plans (note 11) |
(20 | ) | 68 | 9 | 73 | |||||||
Income tax recovery (expense) |
5 | - | (2 | ) | - | |||||||
|
(15 | ) | 68 | 7 | 73 | |||||||
Items that may be reclassified to earnings (loss) in future periods: |
||||||||||||
Foreign currency translation differences for foreign operations |
7 | (2 | ) | 18 | 4 | |||||||
Other comprehensive earnings (loss) for the period |
(8 | ) | 66 | 25 | 77 | |||||||
Total comprehensive earnings (loss) |
$ | (36 | ) | $ | 35 | $ | (1 | ) | $ | 31 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these interim consolidated financial statements.
- 37 -
TEMBEC INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS EQUITY |
Quarters ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013
(unaudited) (in millions of Canadian dollars)
Quarter ended March 29, 2014 | ||||||||||||
Translation | ||||||||||||
Share | of foreign | Shareholders' | ||||||||||
capital | operations | Deficit | equity | |||||||||
Balance - beginning of period, December 28, 2013 |
$ | 567 | $ | 17 | $ | (330 | ) | $ | 254 | |||
|
||||||||||||
Net loss for the period |
- | - | (28 | ) | (28 | ) | ||||||
Other comprehensive earnings (loss), net of income taxes: |
||||||||||||
Defined benefit pension plans and other benefit plans (note 11) |
- | - | (20 | ) | (20 | ) | ||||||
Income tax recovery |
- | - | 5 | 5 | ||||||||
Foreign currency translation differences for foreign operations |
- | 7 | - | 7 | ||||||||
|
||||||||||||
Balance - end of period, March 29, 2014 |
$ | 567 | $ | 24 | $ | (373 | ) | $ | 218 |
Quarter ended March 30, 2013 (note 2) | ||||||||||||
Translation | ||||||||||||
Share | of foreign | Shareholders' | ||||||||||
|
capital | operations | Deficit | equity | ||||||||
Balance - beginning of period, December 29, 2012 |
$ | 567 | $ | (3 | ) | $ | (465 | ) | $ | 99 | ||
|
||||||||||||
Net loss for the period |
- | - | (31 | ) | (31 | ) | ||||||
Other comprehensive earnings (loss), net of income taxes: |
||||||||||||
Defined benefit pension plans and other benefit plans (note 11) |
- | - | 68 | 68 | ||||||||
Foreign currency translation differences for foreign operations |
- | (2 | ) | - | (2 | ) | ||||||
Issue of warrants |
- | - | - | - | ||||||||
|
||||||||||||
Balance - end of period, March 30, 2013 |
$ | 567 | $ | (5 | ) | $ | (428 | ) | $ | 134 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these interim consolidated financial statements.
- 38 -
TEMBEC INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS EQUITY |
Six months ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013
(unaudited) (in millions of Canadian dollars)
Six months ended March 29, 2014 | ||||||||||||
Translation | ||||||||||||
Share | of foreign | Shareholders' | ||||||||||
capital | operations | Deficit | equity | |||||||||
Balance - beginning of year, September 28, 2013 |
$ | 567 | $ | 6 | $ | (354 | ) | $ | 219 | |||
|
||||||||||||
Net loss for the period |
- | - | (26 | ) | (26 | ) | ||||||
Other comprehensive earnings (loss), net of income taxes: |
||||||||||||
Defined benefit pension plans and other benefit plans (note 11) |
- | - | 9 | 9 | ||||||||
Income tax expense |
- | - | (2 | ) | (2 | ) | ||||||
Foreign currency translation differences for foreign operations |
- | 18 | - | 18 | ||||||||
|
||||||||||||
Balance - end of period, March 29, 2014 |
$ | 567 | $ | 24 | $ | (373 | ) | $ | 218 |
Six months ended March 30, 2013 (note 2) | ||||||||||||
Translation | ||||||||||||
Share | of foreign | Shareholders' | ||||||||||
|
capital | operations | Deficit | equity | ||||||||
Balance - beginning of year, September 29, 2012 |
$ | 564 | $ | (9 | ) | $ | (455 | ) | $ | 100 | ||
|
||||||||||||
Net loss for the period |
- | - | (46 | ) | (46 | ) | ||||||
Other comprehensive earnings (loss), net of income taxes: |
||||||||||||
Defined benefit pension plans and other benefit plans (note 11) |
- | - | 73 | 73 | ||||||||
Foreign currency translation differences for foreign operations |
- | 4 | - | 4 | ||||||||
Issue of warrants |
3 | - | - | 3 | ||||||||
|
||||||||||||
Balance - end of period, March 30, 2013 |
$ | 567 | $ | (5 | ) | $ | (428 | ) | $ | 134 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these interim consolidated financial statements.
- 39 -
TEMBEC INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS |
Quarters and six months ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013
(unaudited) (in millions of Canadian dollars)
Quarters | Six months | |||||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | 2013 | |||||||||
|
(note 2 | ) | (note 2 | ) | ||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities: |
||||||||||||
Net loss |
$ | (28 | ) | $ | (31 | ) | $ | (26 | ) | $ | (46 | ) |
Adjustments for: |
||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
9 | 9 | 17 | 20 | ||||||||
Net finance costs (note 9) |
20 | 16 | 41 | 32 | ||||||||
Income tax expense (note 10) |
11 | 6 | 7 | 12 | ||||||||
Income tax paid |
(17 | ) | (6 | ) | (20 | ) | (8 | ) | ||||
Excess cash contributions over employee future benefits expense |
(5 | ) | (6 | ) | (13 | ) | (17 | ) | ||||
Impairment loss (note 8) |
- | 22 | - | 22 | ||||||||
Gain on sale of assets (note 8) |
(1 | ) | - | (21 | ) | (2 | ) | |||||
Settlement loss on pension plan (note 8) |
7 | - | 7 | - | ||||||||
Other |
(1 | ) | 1 | 4 | (3 | ) | ||||||
|
(5 | ) | 11 | (4 | ) | 10 | ||||||
Changes in non-cash working capital: |
||||||||||||
Trade and other receivables |
25 | (20 | ) | 8 | 4 | |||||||
Inventories |
(65 | ) | (33 | ) | (74 | ) | (31 | ) | ||||
Prepaid expenses |
(3 | ) | (7 | ) | (2 | ) | (5 | ) | ||||
Trade, other payables and accrued charges |
33 | 33 | 35 | 2 | ||||||||
|
(10 | ) | (27 | ) | (33 | ) | (30 | ) | ||||
|
(15 | ) | (16 | ) | (37 | ) | (20 | ) | ||||
Cash flows from investing activities: |
||||||||||||
Disbursements for property, plant and equipment |
(33 | ) | (22 | ) | (75 | ) | (62 | ) | ||||
Proceeds from sale of assets (note 8) |
1 | - | 24 | 2 | ||||||||
Change in restricted cash |
- | - | (7 | ) | 4 | |||||||
Other |
- | 1 | - | 1 | ||||||||
|
(32 | ) | (21 | ) | (58 | ) | (55 | ) | ||||
Cash flows from financing activities: |
||||||||||||
Change in operating bank loans |
19 | 17 | 23 | 18 | ||||||||
Increase in long-term debt |
8 | - | 41 | 24 | ||||||||
Repayments of long-term debt |
(1 | ) | (1 | ) | (2 | ) | (2 | ) | ||||
Interest paid |
(1 | ) | (1 | ) | (21 | ) | (19 | ) | ||||
|
25 | 15 | 41 | 21 | ||||||||
|
(22 | ) | (22 | ) | (54 | ) | (54 | ) | ||||
Foreign exchange gain on cash and cash equivalents held in foreign currencies |
1 | - | 4 | 1 | ||||||||
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents |
(21 | ) | (22 | ) | (50 | ) | (53 | ) | ||||
|
||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period |
44 | 56 | 73 | 87 | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period |
$ | 23 | $ | 34 | $ | 23 | $ | 34 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these interim consolidated financial statements.
- 40 -
TEMBEC INC. BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION |
Quarters ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013
(unaudited) (in millions of Canadian dollars)
Quarter ended March 29, 2014 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Specialty | |||||||||||||||||||||
Forest | Cellulose | Paper | Consolidation | ||||||||||||||||||
|
Products | Pulp | Pulp | Paper | Corporate | adjustments | Consolidated | ||||||||||||||
Sales: |
|||||||||||||||||||||
External |
$ | 95 | $ | 128 | $ | 55 | $ | 84 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 362 | |||||||
Internal |
17 | - | 7 | - | 4 | (28 | ) | - | |||||||||||||
|
112 | 128 | 62 | 84 | 4 | (28 | ) | 362 | |||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||||||||
Freight and other deductions |
11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | - | - | 44 | ||||||||||||||
Lumber export taxes |
(1 | ) | - | - | - | - | - | (1 | ) | ||||||||||||
Cost of sales |
96 | 94 | 47 | 71 | 4 | (28 | ) | 284 | |||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
3 | 5 | 2 | 3 | 5 | - | 18 | ||||||||||||||
Share-based compensation |
- | - | - | - | (1 | ) | - | (1 | ) | ||||||||||||
Earnings (loss) before the following (adjusted EBITDA): |
3 | 18 | 2 | (1 | ) | (4 | ) | - | 18 | ||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
2 | 3 | 3 | 1 | - | - | 9 | ||||||||||||||
Other items (note 8) |
- | - | - | - | 6 | - | 6 | ||||||||||||||
Operating earnings (loss) |
$ | 1 | $ | 15 | $ | (1 | ) | $ | (2 | ) | $ | (10 | ) | $ | - | $ | 3 | ||||
Additions to property, plant and equipment |
$ | 1 | $ | 40 | $ | 1 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 42 | |||||||
Total assets |
$ | 200 | $ | 595 | $ | 152 | $ | 145 | $ | 41 | $ | - | $ | 1,133 | |||||||
Total liabilities |
$ | 82 | $ | 242 | $ | 33 | $ | 73 | $ | 485 | $ | - | $ | 915 |
Quarter ended March 30, 2013 (note 2) | |||||||||||||||||||||
Specialty | |||||||||||||||||||||
Forest | Cellulose | Paper | Consolidation | ||||||||||||||||||
|
Products | Pulp | Pulp | Paper | Corporate | adjustments | Consolidated | ||||||||||||||
Sales: |
|||||||||||||||||||||
External |
$ | 86 | $ | 120 | $ | 114 | $ | 87 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 407 | |||||||
Internal |
18 | - | 8 | - | 2 | (28 | ) | - | |||||||||||||
|
104 | 120 | 122 | 87 | 2 | (28 | ) | 407 | |||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||||||||
Freight and other deductions |
10 | 9 | 24 | 11 | - | - | 54 | ||||||||||||||
Lumber export taxes |
- | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||
Cost of sales |
84 | 92 | 92 | 68 | 2 | (28 | ) | 310 | |||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
3 | 5 | 2 | 3 | 6 | - | 19 | ||||||||||||||
Share-based compensation |
- | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||
Earnings (loss) before the following (adjusted EBITDA): |
7 | 14 | 4 | 5 | (6 | ) | - | 24 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
2 | 3 | 3 | 1 | - | - | 9 | ||||||||||||||
Other items (note 8) |
- | - | 22 | - | 2 | - | 24 | ||||||||||||||
Operating earnings (loss) |
$ | 5 | $ | 11 | $ | (21 | ) | $ | 4 | $ | (8 | ) | $ | - | $ | (9 | ) | ||||
Additions to property, plant and equipment |
$ | - | $ | 22 | $ | 1 | $ | 2 | $ | 1 | $ | - | $ | 26 | |||||||
Total assets |
$ | 196 | $ | 442 | $ | 278 | $ | 120 | $ | 24 | $ | - | $ | 1,060 | |||||||
Total liabilities |
$ | 80 | $ | 230 | $ | 68 | $ | 124 | $ | 424 | $ | - | $ | 926 |
- 41 -
TEMBEC INC. BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION |
Six months ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013
(unaudited) (in millions of Canadian dollars)
Six months ended March 29, 2014 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Specialty | |||||||||||||||||||||
Forest | Cellulose | Paper | Consolidation | ||||||||||||||||||
|
Products | Pulp | Pulp | Paper | Corporate | adjustments | Consolidated | ||||||||||||||
Sales: |
|||||||||||||||||||||
External |
$ | 178 | $ | 254 | $ | 120 | $ | 164 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 716 | |||||||
Internal |
33 | - | 15 | - | 7 | (55 | ) | - | |||||||||||||
|
211 | 254 | 135 | 164 | 7 | (55 | ) | 716 | |||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||||||||
Freight and other deductions |
20 | 21 | 25 | 22 | - | - | 88 | ||||||||||||||
Lumber export taxes |
- | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||
Cost of sales |
184 | 191 | 104 | 131 | 7 | (55 | ) | 562 | |||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
6 | 10 | 3 | 5 | 11 | - | 35 | ||||||||||||||
Share-based compensation |
- | - | - | - | - | - | - | ||||||||||||||
Earnings (loss) before the following (adjusted EBITDA): |
1 | 32 | 3 | 6 | (11 | ) | - | 31 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
3 | 7 | 5 | 2 | - | - | 17 | ||||||||||||||
Other items (note 8) |
- | - | - | - | (8 | ) | - | (8 | ) | ||||||||||||
Operating earnings (loss) |
$ | (2 | ) | $ | 25 | $ | (2 | ) | $ | 4 | $ | (3 | ) | $ | - | $ | 22 | ||||
Additions to property, plant and equipment |
$ | 3 | $ | 70 | $ | 2 | $ | 1 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 76 | |||||||
Total assets |
$ | 200 | $ | 595 | $ | 152 | $ | 145 | $ | 41 | $ | - | $ | 1,133 | |||||||
Total liabilities |
$ | 82 | $ | 242 | $ | 33 | $ | 73 | $ | 485 | $ | - | $ | 915 |
Six months ended March 30, 2013 (note 2) | |||||||||||||||||||||
Specialty | |||||||||||||||||||||
Forest | Cellulose | Paper | Consolidation | ||||||||||||||||||
Products | Pulp | Pulp | Paper | Corporate | adjustments | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
Sales: |
|||||||||||||||||||||
External |
$ | 171 | $ | 223 | $ | 224 | $ | 165 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 783 | |||||||
Internal |
34 | - | 15 | - | 6 | (55 | ) | - | |||||||||||||
|
205 | 223 | 239 | 165 | 6 | (55 | ) | 783 | |||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||||||||
Freight and other deductions |
19 | 16 | 47 | 22 | - | - | 104 | ||||||||||||||
Lumber export taxes |
1 | - | - | - | - | - | 1 | ||||||||||||||
Cost of sales |
170 | 165 | 184 | 126 | 6 | (55 | ) | 596 | |||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
6 | 10 | 4 | 6 | 12 | - | 38 | ||||||||||||||
Share-based compensation |
- | - | - | - | 1 | - | 1 | ||||||||||||||
Earnings (loss) before the following (adjusted EBITDA): |
9 | 32 | 4 | 11 | (13 | ) | - | 43 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
4 | 6 | 8 | 2 | - | - | 20 | ||||||||||||||
Other items (note 8) |
- | - | 22 | - | 3 | - | 25 | ||||||||||||||
Operating earnings (loss) |
$ | 5 | $ | 26 | $ | (26 | ) | $ | 9 | $ | (16 | ) | $ | - | $ | (2 | ) | ||||
Additions to property, plant and equipment |
$ | 2 | $ | 48 | $ | 6 | $ | 3 | $ | 1 | $ | - | $ | 60 | |||||||
Total assets |
$ | 196 | $ | 442 | $ | 278 | $ | 120 | $ | 24 | $ | - | $ | 1,060 | |||||||
Total liabilities |
$ | 80 | $ | 230 | $ | 68 | $ | 124 | $ | 424 | $ | - | $ | 926 |
- 42 -
TEMBEC INC. NOTES TO INTERIM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
Quarters and six months ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013
(unaudited) (in millions of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
1. |
Reporting entity and nature of operations |
Tembec Inc. (the Corporation) and its subsidiaries (collectively Tembec or the Company) operate an integrated forest products business. | |
The Corporation is incorporated and domiciled in Canada and listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol TMB. The address of the Company's registered office is 800 René-Lévesque Blvd. West, Suite 1050, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H3B 1X9. | |
2. |
Basis of presentation |
Statement of compliance | |
These unaudited interim consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) applicable to the preparation of interim financial statements, including International Accounting Standard (IAS) 34 Interim Financial Reporting. | |
The accounting policies and the basis of presentation applied in these unaudited interim consolidated financial statements are consistent with those applied and disclosed in the Companys audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended September 28, 2013, except for the changes in accounting policies described below. Taxes on income in the interim periods are accrued using the tax rate that would be applicable to expected total annual profit or loss. The Companys interim results are not necessarily indicative of its results for a full year. | |
These unaudited interim consolidated financial statements do not include all of the information and disclosures required in the annual financial statements and, accordingly, should be read in conjunction with the Companys audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended September 28, 2013. | |
These unaudited interim consolidated financial statements were authorized for issue by the Board of Directors on April 28, 2014. | |
Accounting estimates and judgments | |
The preparation of unaudited interim consolidated financial statements requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expense. Actual results may differ from those estimates. | |
In preparing these unaudited interim consolidated financial statements, the significant judgments made by management in applying the Companys significant accounting policies and key sources of information were the same as those applied to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended September 28, 2013. | |
Changes in accounting policies | |
At the beginning of the fiscal year, the Company adopted the amended IAS 19, Employee Benefits, which changes the recognition and measurement of defined benefit pension plans expense, other benefit plans expense, termination benefits and enhances the disclosure of employee future benefits. The most significant changes include the accounting for past service costs, which are no longer recognized over a service period, but are instead recognized immediately in the period of a plan amendment. In addition, the expected return on plan assets is now assumed to be equal to the discount rate applied to measure the defined benefit obligation. As such, a net interest cost (income) is calculated on the net defined benefit liability (asset). The Company has restated its comparative period results following the adoption of amended IAS 19. |
- 43 -
TEMBEC INC. NOTES TO INTERIM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
Quarters and six months ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013
(unaudited) (in millions of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
2. |
Basis of presentation (continued) Changes in accounting policies (continued) |
The effect of adopting the amended standard on the consolidated balance sheets was as follows: |
As reported | Change | Restated | ||||||||
As at September 29, 2012 | ||||||||||
Employee future benefits | $ | 285 | $ | 2 | $ | 287 | ||||
Deficit | $ | (453 | ) | $ | (2 | ) | $ | (455 | ) | |
As at September 28, 2013 | ||||||||||
Employee future benefits | $ | 126 | $ | 1 | $ | 127 | ||||
Deficit | $ | (353 | ) | $ | (1 | ) | $ | (354 | ) |
The effect of adopting the amended standard on the consolidated statement of net earnings (loss) and comprehensive earnings (loss) for the quarter and six months ended March 30, 2013, is as follows:
Quarter ended March 30, 2013 | ||||||||||
|
As reported | Change | Restated | |||||||
Operating loss |
$ | (8 | ) | $ | (1 | ) | $ | (9 | ) | |
Net finance costs |
12 | 4 | 16 | |||||||
Income tax expense |
6 | - | 6 | |||||||
Net loss |
(26 | ) | (5 | ) | (31 | ) | ||||
Defined benefit pension plans and other benefit plans |
63 | 5 | 68 | |||||||
Foreign currency translation differences for foreign operations |
(2 | ) | - | (2 | ) | |||||
Total comprehensive earnings |
$ | 35 | $ | - | $ | 35 | ||||
Basic and diluted net loss in dollars per share |
$ | (0.26 | ) | $ | (0.31 | ) |
Six months ended March 30, 2013 | ||||||||||
As reported | Change | Restated | ||||||||
Operating loss |
$ | (1 | ) | $ | (1 | ) | $ | (2 | ) | |
Net finance costs |
23 | 9 | 32 | |||||||
Income tax expense |
12 | - | 12 | |||||||
Net loss |
(36 | ) | (10 | ) | (46 | ) | ||||
Defined benefit pension plans and other benefit plans |
63 | 10 | 73 | |||||||
Foreign currency translation differences for foreign operations |
4 | - | 4 | |||||||
Total comprehensive earnings |
$ | 31 | $ | - | $ | 31 | ||||
Basic and diluted net loss in dollars per share |
$ | (0.36 | ) | $ | (0.46 | ) |
The amended IAS 19 had no impact on cash flows from operating activities, cash flows from investing activities and cash flows from financing activities.
The Company also adopted IFRS 7, Financial Instruments Disclosures, and IFRS 13, Fair Value Measurement. The adoption of these standards had no significant impact on the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements.
- 44 -
TEMBEC INC. NOTES TO INTERIM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
Quarters and six months ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013
(unaudited) (in millions of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
3. |
Inventories |
Mar. 29, | Sept. 28, | ||||||
2014 | 2013 | ||||||
Finished goods | $ | 135 | $ | 111 | |||
Logs and wood chips | 103 | 55 | |||||
Supplies and materials | 74 | 71 | |||||
$ | 312 | $ | 237 | ||||
Inventories carried at net realizable value | $ | 15 | $ | 22 |
During the quarters ended in March 2014 and 2013, cost of sales consists primarily of inventories recognized as an expense. Inventories at March 29, 2014, were written down by $4 million (September 28, 2013 - $4 million) to reflect net realizable value being lower than cost. The write-down and reversal, if any, are included in cost of sales.
4. |
Property, plant and equipment |
Net book value | |||||||
Mar. 29, | Sept. 28, | ||||||
2014 | 2013 | ||||||
Land | $ | 3 | $ | 3 | |||
Buildings | 44 | 42 | |||||
Production equipment: | |||||||
Pulp and paper | 258 | 238 | |||||
Sawmill | 16 | 15 | |||||
Forest access roads | 9 | 9 | |||||
Assets under construction | 242 | 189 | |||||
$ | 572 | $ | 496 |
In March 2012, the Company announced a major capital investment to upgrade its specialty cellulose manufacturing facility in Temiscaming, Quebec. As at the end of March 2014, the Company had incurred $201 million of capital expenditures for this project and had $23 million of outstanding commitments. For the six-month period ended March 29, 2014, the Company had total additions to property, plant and equipment of $76 million, of which $64 million was for the upgrade of the specialty cellulose mill. | |
5. |
Operating bank loans |
The Canadian operations are supported by a $175 million asset-based revolving working capital facility expiring in March 2017. As at March 29, 2014, the amount available, based on eligible receivables and inventories, was $141 million of which $77 million was drawn and $53 million was reserved for letters of credit. Interest is calculated based either on the BA Rate, the LIBOR, the Canadian Prime Rate or the U.S. Base Rate, as the case may be, plus an applicable margin. | |
The French operations are supported by receivable factoring agreements. As such, the borrowing base fluctuates periodically, depending on shipments and cash receipts. At the end of March 2014, the amount available was $31 million of which $4 million was drawn. |
- 45 -
TEMBEC INC. NOTES TO INTERIM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
Quarters and six months ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013
(unaudited) (in millions of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
6. |
Long-term debt |
This note provides information about the contractual terms of the Companys long-term interest-bearing loans and borrowings, which are measured at amortized cost. |
Mar. 29, | Sept. 28, | |||||||||
Maturity | 2014 | 2013 | ||||||||
Tembec Industries Inc. - US $305 million - 11.25% senior secured notes |
12/2018 | $ | 337 | $ | 314 | |||||
Tembec Energy LP - 6.35% term loan secured by a first ranking charge |
07/2022 | 20 | 20 | |||||||
Tembec Energy LP - 6.86% term loan secured by a first ranking charge |
10/2022 | 20 | - | |||||||
Tembec Energy LP - 5.5% term loan secured by a second ranking charge |
03/2028 | 60 | 40 | |||||||
Tembec Tartas SAS |
Various | 18 | 17 | |||||||
Kirkland Lake Engineered Wood Products Inc. |
Various | 9 | 9 | |||||||
Other |
Various | 2 | 2 | |||||||
|
466 | 402 | ||||||||
Less current portion |
19 | 16 | ||||||||
Less unamortized financing costs |
17 | 17 | ||||||||
|
$ | 430 | $ | 369 |
During the March 2014 quarter, the Company received an advance of $7 million (December 2013 quarter - $13 million) on the Tembec Energy LP 5.5% term loan secured by a second ranking charge. | |
On October 18, 2013, the Company received the second advance of $20 million bearing interest at 6.86% on the Tembec Energy LP term loan secured by a first ranking charge. This advance is repayable in blended monthly instalments over a period of eight years beginning in November 2014 with a balloon payment of $12 million to be repaid in October 2022. The Company has classified $5 million of amounts received from the lender as restricted cash, pending the attainment of certain milestones related to the speciality cellulose project. | |
The Companys credit agreements contain terms and conditions that could in certain circumstances restrict the ability of the Company to incur or guarantee additional indebtedness, to encumber or dispose of its assets or make certain payments or distributions. | |
7. |
Share capital |
Net earnings (loss) per share | |
The following table provides the reconciliation between basic and diluted net earnings (loss) per share: |
Quarters | Six months | ||||||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | 2013 | ||||||||||
|
(note 2 | ) | (note 2 | ) | |||||||||
Net loss |
$ | (28 | ) | $ | (31 | ) | $ | (26 | ) | $ | (46 | ) | |
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding |
100,000,000 | 100,000,000 | 100,000,000 | 100,000,000 | |||||||||
Dilutive effect of employees share options and warrants |
- | - | - | - | |||||||||
Weighted average number of diluted common shares outstanding |
100,000,000 | 100,000,000 | 100,000,000 | 100,000,000 | |||||||||
Basic and diluted net loss in dollars per share |
$ | (0.28 | ) | $ | (0.31 | ) | $ | (0.26 | ) | $ | (0.46 | ) |
- 46 -
TEMBEC INC. NOTES TO INTERIM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
Quarters and six months ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013
(unaudited) (in millions of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
7. |
Share capital (continued) |
Share-based compensation | |
During the December 2013 quarter, non-executive members of the Board were granted 830,581 Deferred Share Units (DSUs). These DSUs vest in three equal amounts over three years beginning in January 2014. | |
During the December 2013 quarter, 557,808 DSUs were granted to senior executives under the Performance- Conditioned Share Unit (PCSU) plan. | |
8. |
Other items |
The following table provides a summary of the other items by business segment of the Company: |
Quarters | Six months | ||||||||||||
|
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | 2013 | |||||||||
|
(note 2 | ) | (note 2 | ) | |||||||||
Paper Pulp: |
|||||||||||||
Impairment loss - Skookumchuck, BC, pulp mill |
$ | - | $ | 22 | $ | - | $ | 22 | |||||
|
- | 22 | - | 22 | |||||||||
Corporate: |
|||||||||||||
Gain on sale of assets |
(1 | ) | - | (21 | ) | (2 | ) | ||||||
Settlement loss on BC pension plan |
7 | - | 7 | - | |||||||||
Reorganization - severance costs |
- | - | 3 | - | |||||||||
Costs for permanently idled facilities |
- | 2 | 3 | 5 | |||||||||
|
6 | 2 | (8 | ) | 3 | ||||||||
|
$ | 6 | $ | 24 | $ | (8 | ) | $ | 25 |
2014
On March 10, 2014, the Company recorded a gain of $1 million relating to the sale of its pulp mill located in Chetwynd, British Columbia (BC), for a nominal amount and the assumption of certain liabilities by the buyer.
During the March 2014 quarter, the Company signed an agreement to settle the defined benefit obligation of its BC pension plan and incurred a non-cash settlement loss of $7 million. In relation with the settlement, the Company recorded a $4 million gain in other comprehensive earnings (loss) for previously unrecognized pension assets due to the asset ceiling limit.
On September 30, 2013, the Company announced the BC Lands Sale Initiative. During the December 2013 quarter, the Company completed the sale of various parcels of land for total proceeds of $23 million realizing a gain of $20 million.
During the December 2013 quarter, the Company reorganized certain management functions and roles and recorded a charge of $3 million for severance costs associated with personnel reductions.
During the December 2013 quarter, the Company recorded a charge of $3 million relating to several permanently idled facilities. The costs relate to custodial, site security, legal and remediation activities.
2013
On March 26, 2013, the Company announced that it had reached an agreement to sell its NBSK pulp mill located in Skookumchuck, BC. The assets and liabilities were classified as held for sale. During the March 2013 quarter, the Company recorded an impairment charge of $22 million on the non-current assets to reflect anticipated net proceeds of sale.
During the March 2013 quarter, the Company recorded a charge of $2 million relating to several permanently idled facilities. The costs relate to custodial, site security, legal, pension plans administration expenses and remediation activities. For the six-month period ended March 30, 2013, these charges amounted to $5 million.
During the December 2012 quarter, the Company recorded a gain of $2 million relating to the sale of land and building in Cranbrook, BC.
- 47 -
TEMBEC INC.
NOTES TO INTERIM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
Quarters and six months ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013
(unaudited) (in millions of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
9. |
Net finance costs |
Quarters | Six months | ||||||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | 2013 | ||||||||||
(note 2 | ) | (note 2 | ) | ||||||||||
Interest on long-term debt |
$ | 11 | $ | 10 | $ | 22 | $ | 20 | |||||
Interest on short-term debt |
1 | - | 1 | 1 | |||||||||
Bank charges and other financing expenses |
- | 1 | 1 | 1 | |||||||||
Net foreign exchange gain, excluding exchange on long-term debt |
(1 | ) | (1 | ) | (1 | ) | (1 | ) | |||||
Exchange loss on long-term debt |
11 | 6 | 23 | 10 | |||||||||
Net interest cost on defined benefit plans |
1 | 2 | 2 | 5 | |||||||||
Interest capitalized on assets under construction |
(3 | ) | (2 | ) | (7 | ) | (4 | ) | |||||
|
$ | 20 | $ | 16 | $ | 41 | $ | 32 | |||||
|
|||||||||||||
Finance costs |
$ | 21 | $ | 17 | $ | 42 | $ | 33 | |||||
Finance income |
(1 | ) | (1 | ) | (1 | ) | (1 | ) | |||||
Net finance costs |
$ | 20 | $ | 16 | $ | 41 | $ | 32 |
10. |
Income taxes |
The reconciliation of income taxes calculated at the statutory rate to the actual tax provision is as follows: |
Quarters | Six months | ||||||||||||
|
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | 2013 | |||||||||
|
(note 2 | ) | (note 2 | ) | |||||||||
Loss before income taxes |
$ | (17 | ) | $ | (25 | ) | $ | (19 | ) | $ | (34 | ) | |
Income tax recovery based on combined federal and provincial income tax rates of 26.2% (2013 - 26.3%) |
$ | (4 | ) | $ | (6 | ) | $ | (5 | ) | $ | (8 | ) | |
Increase resulting from: |
|||||||||||||
Difference in statutory income tax rates |
1 | 2 | 2 | 4 | |||||||||
Permanent differences and other tax adjustments |
2 | 1 | 4 | 1 | |||||||||
Unrecognized tax asset |
12 | 9 | 6 | 15 | |||||||||
|
15 | 12 | 12 | 20 | |||||||||
Income tax expense |
$ | 11 | $ | 6 | $ | 7 | $ | 12 | |||||
Income taxes: |
|||||||||||||
Current |
$ | 5 | $ | 6 | $ | 9 | $ | 10 | |||||
Deferred |
6 | - | (2 | ) | 2 | ||||||||
Income tax expense |
$ | 11 | $ | 6 | $ | 7 | $ | 12 |
- 48 -
TEMBEC INC. NOTES TO INTERIM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
Quarters and six months ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013
(unaudited) (in millions of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
11. |
Employee future benefits |
The Company measures its defined benefit obligations and the fair value of plan assets at year-end. At the end of each interim reporting period, the Company estimates changes in its accrued benefit liabilities based upon variations in discount rates and rates of return on plan assets, as well as any significant changes to the plans, if any. | |
The following table presents the Companys employee future benefit costs included in net earnings (loss): |
Quarters | Six months | ||||||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | 2013 | ||||||||||
(note 2 | ) | (note 2 | ) | ||||||||||
Defined benefit pension plans |
$ | 2 | $ | 3 | $ | 4 | $ | 5 | |||||
Defined contribution and other retirement plans |
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |||||||||
Other benefit plans |
1 | - | 1 | 1 | |||||||||
Current service cost |
$ | 4 | $ | 5 | $ | 8 | $ | 10 | |||||
|
|||||||||||||
Administration expenses |
$ | 1 | $ | 1 | $ | 1 | $ | 1 | |||||
|
|||||||||||||
Net interest cost |
$ | 1 | $ | 2 | $ | 2 | $ | 5 | |||||
|
|||||||||||||
Settlement loss on BC pension plan (note 8) |
$ | 7 | $ | - | $ | 7 | $ | - |
The variation in discount rate on obligations, the return on plan assets excluding amounts included in net interest on the net liability and the revised mortality table generated a gain (loss) on employee future benefits, included in other comprehensive earnings (loss), as follows:
Quarters | Six months | ||||||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | 2013 | ||||||||||
(note 2 | ) | (note 2 | ) | ||||||||||
Actuarial gain (loss) - variation in discount rate |
$ | (38 | ) | $ | 42 | $ | (27 | ) | $ | 42 | |||
Return on plan assets (excluding interest income) |
23 | 26 | 51 | 31 | |||||||||
Actuarial loss - mortality table |
(14 | ) | - | (14 | ) | - | |||||||
Effect of limit on recognition of assets |
9 | - | (1 | ) | - | ||||||||
|
$ | (20 | ) | $ | 68 | $ | 9 | $ | 73 |
The actuarial loss on variation in discount rate recognized in the statement of comprehensive earnings (loss) at March 29, 2014, was based on a variation of the discount rate for pension plans from 4.60% used at September 28, 2013, to 4.70% at December 28, 2013 and 4.34% at March 29, 2014. The actual rate of return for the six-month period was 9.1% (annualized 18.2%), which is 6.8% higher than the amount recorded in interest income of 2.3% (annualized 4.6%).
During the March 2014 quarter, the Canadian Institute of Actuaries issued the Canadian Pensioners Mortality Table for private sector pension plans. An actuarial loss of $14 million was recorded to reflect the impact of this table on the Canadian pension plans.
- 49 -
TEMBEC INC. NOTES TO INTERIM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
Quarters and six months ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013
(unaudited) (in millions of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
12. |
Financial instruments Fair value |
The carrying value and the fair value of long-term debt are as follows: |
Mar. 29, | Sept. 28, | ||||||
2014 | 2013 | ||||||
Carrying value | $ | 449 | $ | 385 | |||
Fair value | $ | 500 | $ | 428 |
Financial risk management
The carrying amount of financial assets represents the maximum credit exposure. The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date was:
|
Mar. 29, | Sept. 28, | |||||
|
2014 | 2013 | |||||
Loans and receivables, other than cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash |
$ | 160 | $ | 167 | |||
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash |
$ | 31 | $ | 74 |
Exposure to liquidity risk
The Company has an objective of maintaining liquidity equal to 12 months of maintenance capital expenditures, interest and principal repayments, seasonal working capital requirements and general corporate purposes, which would amount to approximately $135 million to $150 million of liquidity.
Repayment of amounts due within one year is funded by normal collection of current trade accounts receivable. Liquidity in the form of cash, cash equivalents and unused revolving credit facilities is also maintained to assist in the solvency and financial flexibility of the Company. Liquidity as at March 29, 2014, totalled $69 million (September 28, 2013 - $109 million). The Company anticipates that the liquidity will likely remain below its stated objective as the capital expenditures associated with the Temiscaming project continue. In order to address this situation, the Company entered into two secured term loan facilities totalling $133 million of which $33 million is undrawn.
The Company is actively pursuing its BC Land Sales Initiative as well as options to increase liquidity. The Company has recently entered into an agreement to sell additional parcels for cash proceeds of $35 million (see note 14). The closing of the transaction is conditional on the purchaser obtaining adequate financing. There can be no assurance that the transaction will be consummated. The Company is also pursuing other alternatives to enhance liquidity including, but not limited to, the potential sale of other assets, the refinancing of existing indebtedness and other capital market initiatives. There can be no assurance that the Company will be successful in its efforts. The Companys liquidity is also dependent on generating a sufficient amount of adjusted EBITDA and cash flow from operations. These can be significantly impacted by changes to the relative value of the Canadian dollar, product selling prices and the cost of inputs utilized in manufacturing processes. Based on existing liquidity, current initiatives to obtain additional liquidity and anticipated future operating cash flow, the Company believes that it will be able to adequately fund its operations and meet its future obligations as they become due. This determination could be impacted by economic, financial, competitive, legislative and regulatory factors, as well as other events, that are beyond the Companys control.
- 50 -
TEMBEC INC. NOTES TO INTERIM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
Quarters and six months ended March 29, 2014 and March 30, 2013
(unaudited) (in millions of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
12. |
Financial instruments (continued) |
The following are the contractual maturities of financial liabilities, including interest payments: |
March 29, 2014 | |||||||||||||||||||
Carrying | Contractual | After | |||||||||||||||||
|
amount | cash flows | Year 1 | Years 2-3 | Years 4-5 | 5 years | |||||||||||||
Secured bank loans |
$ | 452 | (1) | $ | 676 | $ | 56 | $ | 98 | $ | 427 | $ | 95 | ||||||
Unsecured loans |
14 | 15 | 7 | 6 | 1 | 1 | |||||||||||||
Operating bank loans |
81 | 81 | 81 | - | - | - | |||||||||||||
Trade and others |
243 | 243 | 243 | - | - | - | |||||||||||||
|
$ | 790 | $ | 1,015 | $ | 387 | $ | 104 | $ | 428 | $ | 96 | |||||||
(1) before financing costs |
13. |
Capital management |
The Companys long-term objective is to maintain the net debt to total capitalization ratio at 40% or less. The net debt to total capitalization ratio of the Company was 59% as at March 29, 2014 (September 28, 2013 52%). The increase was due to a higher debt borrowed primarily to finance the Temiscaming specialty cellulose project. The Company anticipates that the net debt to total capitalization ratio will remain in excess of its target until the Temiscaming project is completed and begins to generate the projected incremental adjusted EBITDA. | |
There were no changes in the Companys approach to capital management during the period. | |
14. |
Subsequent event |
On April 25, 2014, the Company announced the conditional sale of 49,500 hectares of land in BC for a price of $35 million plus a seven year earn-out provision pursuant to which the Company would be entitled to additional payments of at least $2 million. The closing of the sale is conditional on the purchaser obtaining adequate financing and other customary conditions. There can be no assurance that the transaction will be consummated. |
- 51 -
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