RNS Number:3792P
Lafarge
4 September 2003
Half year results to June 30, 2003
*The group, with half year operating income on ordinary activities down 23%,
maintains its expectations of a stable full year operating income, before
currency fluctuations, due to the encouraging activity levels recently observed
and to a more favorable overall pricing environment
The Board of Directors of Lafarge, chaired by Bertrand Collomb, meeting on
September 3, 2003, closed the accounts for the half year ending June 30, 2003.
Group highlights
* Negative currency impact due to the strong appreciation of the euro
Operating income on ordinary activities was down by 23% to Euro670 million, with
the strong appreciation of the euro in the first half of the year reducing
operating income on ordinary activities by 10%. Operating income on ordinary
activities at constant scope and foreign exchange dropped by 14% or Euro105
million, Euro44 million of which are attributable to increased pension costs.
* Decrease in operating income on ordinary activities entirely attributable to
the first quarter
All the decrease in operating income is attributable to the first quarter 2003 -
results for the second quarter 2003 are in fact in tine compared with the second
quarter 2002, despite an increase in pension costs.
The significant decrease in operating income in the first quarter 2003 was
mainly due to an exceptionally harsh winter, especially in North America, while
the winter in the first quarter 2002 was unusually mild.
* Negative price effect in some difficult markets
The first half of 2003 was also impacted by the full absorption of a sharp price
decrease in cement in Germany and the Philippines, which occurred during 2002.
Both markets are now showing evidence of a positive price trend.
* Lower net income mainly due to exceptional items
Net income in the first half 2003 is affected by an Euro86m drop in net exceptional
items. Since July 1st we have announced further Euro110m in capital gains from
disposals, thus erasing the distortions between June 30, 2002 and June 30, 2003
* Encouraging recent activity levels and improvement in overall pricing
environment
Operational performance continues to improve. The cost of fuel per ton of cement
continued to decrease despite an unfavorable energy environment. The encouraging
activity levels recently observed and an overall more favorable pricing
environment allow us to confirm our expectations of stable full year operating
income on ordinary activities before currency fluctuations and barring unusual
weather conditions at the end of the year.
1
Consolidated accounts as at June 30, 2003
June 30, 2003 June 30, 2002 Variation
Euro Million Euro Million
Sales 6,350 7,203 -12%
Operating income on ordinary activities 670 868 -23%
Net income, Group share before goodwill amortization 208 368 -43%
Net income 148 291 -49%
Net income per share in Euro 1.1* 2.3 -52%
Cash flow from operations 616 900 -32%
Group net debt 10,111* 11,603 -13%
*These figures do not reflect the use of proceeds from the rights issue, which
closed after the end of the period on July 15, nor the new shares issued.
Division highlights (Excluding foreign exchange, depreciation and scope effects)
Cement:
Low prices led to a swing in profitability in Germany, where significant losses
were reported, and in the Philippines, which recorded a near breakeven position.
The difficult situation in Venezuela resulted in reduced operating income.
Operating income decreased significantly in the United States due to the
unfavorable weather conditions and the overall softening of the market. Strong
increases in operating income were reported in Spain, Romania, Morocco, Brazil
and Nigeria.
Blue Circle incremental synergies are on track for 2003.
Aggregates & Concrete:
North American operations reported a strong decrease in operating income due to
the poor weather conditions and a weak market in several regions. Western Europe
was slightly down with a strong UK performance not making up for the weaker
aggregates market in France.
Roofing:
Results were down, mainly due to Germany and France. Restructuring of the German
roofing business continued in the first half.
Gypsum:
Results were marginally down, mainly due to increased gas costs and difficult
weather conditions at the start of the year in some of our main markets.
2
Operating income on ordinary activities as at June 30, 2003
June 30, 2003 June 30, 2002 Variation Excluding foreign exchange, depreciation
Euro Million Euro Million and scope effects
Cement 561 686 -18% -6%
Aggregates and Concrete 52 85 -39% -37%
Roofing 37 50 -26% -21%
Gypsum 38 39 -3% -12%
Other -18 8 - -
TOTAL 670 868 -23% -14%
OUTLOOK
Bernard Kasriel, Chief Executive Officer of Lafarge, said:
"The contrast between a particularly harsh winter in the first quarter of 2003
and an exceptionally mild one in 2002 has distorted our half year results.
In an overall favorable pricing environment, we are pursuing our improvement in
operational performance and our debt reduction program and are maintaining our
selective allocation of capital expenditure and our asset disposal program of
Euro400 to Euro600 million.
We are on track with these objectives and we reiterate our expectation of stable
full year operating income before currency fluctuations and barring unusual
weather conditions at the end of the year."
Lafarge is the world leader in building materials, and employs 77,000 people in
75 countries. The Group holds top-ranking positions in all four of its
Divisions: Cement, Aggregates & Concrete, Roofing and Gypsum. Lafarge posted
sales of Euro14.6 billion in 2002. More information is available on:
www.lafarge.com
PRESS CONTACTS:
Veronique Doux: (+33) 1 44 34 19 47
veronigue.doux@lafarqe.com
Brunswick
Rurik Ingram 44-20-7404 5959
Cell phone: 44-79-7498-2588
ringram@brunswickgroup.com
INVESTOR RELATIONS:
James Palmer: (+33) 1 44 34 11 26
james.palmer@lafarge.com
Daniele Daouphars: (+33) 1 44 34 11 51
daniele.daouphars@lafarge.com
3
Practical information:
There will be a French press conference at 09.00 CET at Lafarge (61 rue des
Belles Feuilles - 75016 Paris).
There wilt be a French language analyst presentation at 11.00 CET at Lafarge at
61 rue des Belles Feuilles, 75116 Paris. The presentation document will be in
English, the presentation will be in French and there will be a live translation
into English. This presentation (including the slides) will also be available
through a webcast facility on Lafarge website (www.lafarge.com) or at the
following numbers:
- Dial in from France: + 33 1 70 99 32 98
- Dial in from the UK: +44 (0)20 8515 2325
- Toll free from the UK: 0800 279 22 80
- Dial in from the US: +1 416 640 4127
- Toll free from the US: 888 881 4892
Playback available online through www.lafarge.com or by phone from September 4,
2003 to September 9, 2003 at the following numbers:
- France playback number: +33 1 70 99 32 94 (pin code 132063#)
- UK playback number: +44 (0) 20 8797 2499 (pin code 933 931 #)
- US toll free number: 877 289 8525 (pin code 210 16150#)
There will be an English analyst presentation at 17.00 UK time at Founders Hall,
1 Cloth Fair, London EC1. This presentation (including the slides) will also be
available through a webcast facility on Lafarge website (www.lafarge.com) or at
the following numbers:
- Dial in number from UK: + 44 (0)20 8515 2330
- Dial in number from US: + 1 613 287 8027
- Toll free (from the US only): 800 814 4941
Playback facility available online through www.lafarge.com or by phone from
September 4, 2003 to September 9, 2003 at the following numbers:
UK playback number: + 44 20 8797 2499 (code 935 163#)
US playback number: +1 303 590 3065 (code 210 16524#)
Toll free from the US only: 877 289 8525 (code 210 16524#)
Statements made in this press release that are not historical facts, including
statements regarding our debt reduction target, our capital expenditure target,
our plans for divestitures and our expected operating income are forward looking
statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities
Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are not guarantees of future
performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions ("Factors"), which
are difficult to predict. Some of the Factors that could cause actual results to
differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements
include, but are not limited to: the cyclical nature of the Company's business;
national and regional economic conditions in the countries in which the Group
does business; currency fluctuations; seasonal nature of the Company's
operations, levels of construction spending in major markets, supply/demand
structure of the industry; competition from new or existing competitors;
unfavorable weather conditions during peak construction periods; changes in and
implementation of environmental and other governmental regulations; our ability
to successfully identify, complete and efficiently integrate acquisitions; our
ability to successfully penetrate new markets; and other Factors disclosed in
the Company's public filings with the French Commission des Operations de Bourse
and the US Securities and Exchange Commission including its Reference Document
COB number D03-0375 as updated on June 5, 2003 and annual report on Form 20-F.
In general, the Company is subject to the risks and uncertainties of the
construction industry and of doing business throughout the world. The forward-
looking statements are made as of this date and the Company undertakes no
obligation to update them, whether as a result of new information, future events
or otherwise.
4
2003 FIRST HALF MANAGEMENT REPORT
GROUP RESULTS
Sales as at June 30, 2003 declined 11.9% to Euro6,350 million from Euro7,203 million
at June 30, 2002 largely due to significant foreign currency variations which
impacted sales by -10,9% (Euro791 million). Sales in the first half of the year
were generally slower in the Northern hemisphere compared to 2002, due to harsh
weather conditions during the winter and despite an encouraging pick up in June
2003.
The strong appreciation of the Euro has had a material translation impact on
sales generated in the following currencies: US Dollar (Euro314 million), Pound
Sterling (Euro68 million), Canadian Dollar (Euro60 million), Brazilian Real (Euro58
million), and the Malaysian Ringgit (Euro47 million). The net scope effect on sales
amounted to -1.8% (Euro110 million) mainly as a consequence of the divestments
realized in 2002. Sales in the first half from acquisitions amounted to Euro114
million. Divestments and the change in the consolidation method of Morocco at
the end of 2002 resulted in a reduction in sales of Euro224 million.
Underlying sales were up +0.8% at the end of June.
Operating income on ordinary activities declined by 23% to Euro670 million versus
Euro868 million as at June 30, 2002. The effect of foreign currency fluctuations on
the first half 2003 operating income on ordinary activities totaled 10%. Scope
and method changes amounted to Euro10 million, being a reduction arising from
divestments and change in the consolidation method of Morocco of Euro31 million
offset by the change in the estimated life of cement plants with a favorable
impact of Euro41 million. Operating income excluding foreign exchange, cement
depreciation change and scope effects was down 14%, of which the impact of the
increase in pension costs was Euro44 million.
5
By division, the operating results in the first half of 2003 were as follows:
CEMENT: 84% of total operating income at the end of June 2003
Euro million June 30, June 30, % Excluding foreign Excluding foreign
2003 2002 variance exchange, exchange, scope
depreciation change effects and before
and scope effects inter divisional
sales elimination
Sales 3031 3551 -14.6% + 0.2 % +0.9 %
Operating income on ordinary
activities 561 686 -18.2% - 5.9% -----
Sales rose 0.9% excluding foreign exchange, scope effects, and before inter
divisional sales elimination during the first half (-3.4% in Quarter 1 and +3.0%
in Quarter 2).
After the harsh winter experienced in the first quarter and a slow start in
April and May, there were some signs of a pick up in activity levels in June.
Volumes sold by Lafarge in the first six months of 2003 totaled 51MT at current
scope (compared to 52MT in the first six months of 2002.) Western Europe remains
the Group's largest cement market with 30% of volumes sold, followed by Asia
with 22%.
Operating income on ordinary activities of the Cement division was down by 18%
to Euro561 million at the end of June 2003 compared to Euro686 million at the end of
June 2002. Currency fluctuations had a negative impact of 13% being Euro95 million.
At constant scope, depreciation method and exchange rates, operating income on
ordinary activities from our operations fell by 5.9% of which 1.4% results from
incremental pension costs. The impact of the change in the estimated life of
cement plant assets had a favorable impact of Euro41 million on operating income.
The change in the treatment of Morocco at the end of 2002, from the global to
proportional consolidation method, reduced operating income in the Mediterranean
basin by Euro21 million.
Western Europe - Operating income: Euro261 million
(Euro290 million end of June 2002)
Sales in Western Europe were stable overall by the end of June. Strong growth
was seen in Spain, where the construction market continues to boom, and in
Greece with record domestic sales in the run up to the Olympic Games. France and
the UK saw some recovery in June, but Germany remains poor with the continued
low level of prices.
Volumes sold totaled 15MT down 8% principally as a result of the divestment of
the operations in Southern Spain. At constant scope volumes by the end of June
had increased in all countries with the exception of France.
Operating income in Western Europe was down by 10% to Euro261 million. Currency
fluctuations (pound sterling) had a negative impact on operating income of Euro6
million and the impact of the divestment of the operations in Southern Spain was
Euro15 million. Operating income at constant scope, depreciation method and
exchange rates was down by 8% compared to June 2002. Low prices in Germany led
to a swing into a significant operating loss. In Greece, reduced export sales
and prices resulted in a lower operating income.
In Spain, the continued buoyant market led to a strong increase in operating
income. In the UK and France operating income was marginally down on June 2002
reflecting the slow start to the year, higher maintenance costs in France and
pension costs in the UK.
6
North America - Operating income: Euro54 million
(Euro88 million end of June 2002)
Sales
After the prolonged harsh winter the start to the North American construction
season was delayed by a wet spring. Sales were therefore down in the first half
with volumes down by 4%. Pricing in the US showed a modest decline, particularly
due to pricing pressure in the South East and North East. Pricing in Canada was
however favorable.
Operating income in North America declined by 39% to Euro54 million. Currency
fluctuations had a negative impact on operating income of Euro15 million. At
constant scope, depreciation method and exchange rates operating income in North
America was down by 33%.
The drop in operating income occurred in the US operations, due to the
unfavorable weather conditions and the overall softening of the market. Price
weakness was also seen, particularly in the South East, Boston and Baltimore. On
the cost side, lower fixed costs were offset by the increase in pension costs
and higher electricity prices. In Canada, the stronger market and favorable
price trends led to an increase in operating income.
Emerging Countries - Operating income: Euro246 million
(Euro308 million end of June 2002)
Sales
Positive sales trends were recorded overall. Volumes at current scope progressed
by 3% to 28MT. Particularly good market conditions allowed strong growth in
Romania, Morocco, Jordan, and across Africa. Favorable pricing trends in much of
Latin America, South Korea and also India helped offset generally slower
volumes. Malaysia recorded some recovery in the second quarter. Areas of
weakness remain the Philippines, with very low prices, Venezuela where the
unstable economic situation has led to a large fall in volumes and Poland, which
is still experiencing a depressed construction market.
Operating income
* In Central and Eastern Europe, operating income rose to Euro25 million (Euro21
million end of June 2002).
Operating income on ordinary activities continued to improve with an increase of
19% to Euro25 million. The impact of negative currency fluctuations on the region's
operating income amounted to Euro4 million. Operating income at constant scope,
depreciation method and exchange rates grew by 25%, with strong growth in
Romania where both margins and operating income grew substantially due to
favorable market conditions and positive pricing. Operating income in Poland
slipped due to the difficult market conditions in spite of a reduction in fixed
costs.
* In the Mediterranean Basin, operating income for the region was Euro46 million
(Euro66 million end of June 2002).
The operating income from the Mediterranean Basin countries decreased by Euro20
million to Euro46 million due to the change in accounting treatment of Morocco from
global to proportionate consolidation (Euro21 million). The impact of negative
currency fluctuations on the region's operating income amounted to Euro8 million.
Operating income at constant scope, depreciation method and exchange, and
excluding the impact of the Morocco accounting treatment change grew by 10%, due
to strong demand levels in Morocco and in Jordan where sales have now recovered
from the short impact of the Iraq war.
7
* In Latin America, operating income fell to Euro77 million (Euro117 million end of
June 2002).
The operating income from Latin America was down 34% to Euro77 million. The
negative foreign exchange rates impact on the region's operating income amounted
to Euro44 million. The scope impact following the Brumado divestment in Brazil was
Euro3 million. Operating income at constant scope, depreciation method and exchange
grew by 5% due to favorable prices in Brazil in local currency. In Venezuela the
local turmoil resulted in operating income being down by 29%. Honduras recorded
a drop in operating income mainly due to production difficulties. A small
decline was recorded in Chile, but underlying market trends are stable.
* In Africa and the Indian Ocean, operating income increased strongly to Euro56
million (Euro47 million end of June 2002).
Operating income on ordinary activities in Sub-Saharan Africa and the Indian
Ocean increased by 19% to Euro56 million. The negative foreign exchange impact on
the region's operating income amounted to Euro4 million. At constant scope,
depreciation method and exchange rates operating income grew by 33%. This
increase was largely due to favourable pricing trends across the region, but
particularly in Nigeria, South Africa and in South East African countries.
Operating income in Kenya and Cameroon remained stable.
* In Asia, operating income fell to Euro42 million (Euro57 million end of June 2002).
The Asia Pacific region saw operating income on ordinary activities fall by 26%
to Euro42 million. The negative foreign exchange impact on the region's operating
income amounted to Euro14 million. At constant scope, depreciation method and
exchange rates operating income fell by 21%. Improvements in operating income in
India, Indonesia and Malaysia were insufficient to offset the negative swing in
results in the Philippines. In the Philippines, the fierce price competition led
to a small operating loss being recorded. Operating income in South Korea and
China were stable.
AGGREGATES & CONCRETE: 8% of total operating income, end of June 2003
Excluding foreign
Euro million June 30, June 30, % Excluding foreign exchange,scope
2003 2002 variance exchange, and effects and before
scope effects inter divisional
sales elimination
Sales 1980 2218 -10.7% +2% +1.9%
Operating income
on ordinary activities 52 85 -39% +37% ----
* Aggregates - Operating income: Euro23 million (Euro46 million end of June 2002)
* Concrete - Operating income: Euro29 million (Euro39 million end of June 2002)
Sales rose 1.9% excluding foreign exchange, scope effects, and before inter
divisional sales elimination during the first half (-0.6% in Quarter 1 and +3.3%
in Quarter 2). Aggregates volumes at current scope were unchanged at 91 MT in
the first six months. Concrete volumes at current scope were down by 6% to 16M
cubic metres.
8
Operating income on ordinary activities of the Aggregates & Concrete division
declined by 39%, from Euro85 million to Euro52 million. At constant scope and exchange
rates, operating income on ordinary activities declined by 37%. Currency
fluctuations had a negative impact of 3%. The operating income for aggregates
totaled Euro23 million down 50% from Euro46 million in 2002. While currency
fluctuations had a negative impact of Euro2 million the remainder of the decline
was mainly due to the weaker North American results. The operating income for
Concrete totaled Euro29 million down from Euro39 million at the end of June 2002.
Currency fluctuations had a negative impact of Euro2 million.
Western Europe:
Sales rose in Western Europe driven by the UK and Spain. In the UK, the asphalt
and paving business benefited from major contracts in progress and concrete
sales also showed a good level of growth. Spain continues to have record sales.
In France, sales at the end of June were marginally down despite positive
pricing trends.
Operating income on ordinary activities was unchanged at Euro73 million. Operating
income improved in concrete with the closure of the Germany business, but
Aggregates in France declined due to weaker trading conditions offsetting
improvements in the UK and Spain.
North America:
In North America, aggregates and concrete sales in the US were held back by poor
weather conditions and weak levels of demand particularly in Colorado and
Missouri. In Canada, where there is a stronger construction market, concrete
sales recorded a strong level of sales growth; however, aggregate sales were
adversely affected by poor weather conditions in the East and in Alberta.
Operating income on ordinary activities fell strongly to record a loss of Euro29
million (Euro7 million end of June 2002) The impact on operating income of the
weakening dollar against the euro amounted to Euro3 million. These losses result
largely from the very poor weather conditions experienced in the first five
months of the year and the mixed market trends. The weak level of highway work
in the Western US states led to increased losses in the portable highway paving
operations; consequently the scope of our activity in this business has been
reduced in Arizona, and discontinued in Utah and New Mexico. Costs were also
increased by the rise pension costs.
Elsewhere In the world, operating income amounted to Euro8 million up from Euro5
million at the end of June 2002 due to the benefits generated from performance
programmes especially in Turkey, South Africa and Malaysia.
ROOFING: 6% of total operating income, end of June 2003
Excluding foreign
Euro million June 30, 2003 June 30, 2002 % variance Excluding foreign exchange,scope effects
exchange, and and before inter
scope effects divisional
sales elimination
Sales 679 722 -6% -1.7% -1.7%
Operating income 37 50 -26% -21% ----
on ordinary
activities
Sales declined by 1.7% excluding foreign exchange, scope effects, and before
inter divisional sales elimination during the first half (-3.2% in Quarter 1 and
-0.6% in Quarter 2). After unfavorable weather conditions at the beginning of
the year, an improvement was seen in France, Austria and Malaysia.
9
Western Europe:
Sales in Western Europe were down, with the exception of the UK, Italy and
Austria. Weaker sales continued in France, Germany, Scandinavia and the Benelux,
particularly for concrete tiles. Volumes of concrete roof tiles in Western
Europe declined 1% to 32 million square meters, whereas volumes of clays tiles
sold remained unchanged at 11 million square meters. Sales of roofing components
decreased slightly. Chimney sales remained stable due to favorable pricing as
volumes were marginally down by 1% to 1269 thousand km.
Operating income in Western Europe was down 41% to Euro26 million. The decline was
most severe in Germany with a further drop in the market overall. At the same
time the market for concrete tiles continues to erode vis a vis the demand for
clay tiles. With the roll out of the restructuring programmes in the Division,
the reduction in fixed and overhead costs has continued, being 7% lower at the
end of June compared to 2002. In France operating income declined due to a
slower market environment and weak industrial performance.
North America and other countries:
Sales in the United States continued to grow with volumes of concrete tiles sold
rising by 4% to 9 million square meters. Elsewhere, volumes of concrete tiles
sold fell by 10% to 16.3 million square meters with a slower market experienced
in Malaysia in the early part of the first half.
Operating income rose to Euro11 million from Euro6 million. Operating income in the
USA and Eastern Europe continued to show improvement, though Malaysia and China
reported lower results.
GYPSUM: 6% of total operating income, end of June 2003
Euro million June 30, June 30, % variance Excluding foreign Excluding foreign
2003 2002 exchange,and scope exchange,scope effects
effects and before inter
divisional sales
elimination
Sales 593 604 -1.7% +1.5% +1.8%
Operating income 38 39 -2.6% -11.6% ----
on ordinary
activities
Sales rose 1.8% excluding foreign exchange, scope effects, and before inter
divisional sales elimination during the first half (+1.9% in Quarter 1 and +1.6%
in Quarter 2).
The increase in sales was due to overall positive growth in Western Europe and
continuing strong growth in Asia, which offset lower sales in Germany, Poland
and North America.
Western Europe:
Sales rose across Western Europe with the most buoyant market being in the UK.
Operating income on ordinary activities in Western Europe was stable at Euro37
million, with an improvement in Germany, largely due to the benefits resulting
from the integration of the Gyproc operations and the restructuring actions we
took in 2002.
10
North America:
Sales in North America were held back by lower commercial construction and the
effects of the severe weather. Prices edged up to average US$97 per thousand
square feet in June. A price increase was announced in mid August and the
initial signs are encouraging.
The operating loss of Euro13 million in the first half of 2003 showed a small
increase on the previous year. Whilst wallboard production costs improved due to
the idling of the Wilmington plant in Delaware, these savings were more than
offset by increased natural gas prices as well as the impact of lower volumes.
Other countries:
Operating income on ordinary activities totaled Euro14 million compared to Euro13
million at the end of June in 2002. The favorable market trends in Asia and
Australia allowed solid operating income to be generated. This largely offset
the losses in Poland, which at the same level as at the end of June 2002,
reflected the difficult market conditions being experienced.
OTHER INCOME STATEMENT ITEMS
Non-recurring items: Euro- 65 million (Euro+21 million end of June 2002)
The capital gains on disposals amounted to Euro8 million, compared to Euro101 million
during the first half of 2002.
Non recurring costs totaled Euro73 million in the first half. Of this restructuring
costs and write offs around the group's operations amounted to Euro45 million with
Euro19 million relating to the Cement Division worldwide. Further closures and
restructuring initiatives were rolled out in the Roofing Division, mainly in
Germany, amounting to Euro18 million.
Net Interest charges: Euro302 million (Euro264 million end of June 2002)
Interest costs on the Group's financing amounted to Euro268 million compared to
Euro309 million in the first half of 2002 at an average interest rate of 5.0% at
the end of June 2003. In the first half of 2002, overall financing costs were
reduced due to the capitalization of new plant financing costs (Euro25 million) and
positive foreign exchange gains (Euro8 million.) In 2003, fewer new plants were
under construction, so capitalization was greatly reduced to Euro2 million. Foreign
exchange losses amounted to Euro35 million, principally in Brazil due to the effect
of the rebound of the real against the US dollar on local US dollar short term
investments and in the UK due to the weaker pound sterling affecting local euro
denominated debt.
Income tax charge: Euro63 million (Euro194 million end of June 2002)
The effective tax rate dropped to 21 % compared to 31 % at the end of June 2002,
due to the recognition of tax-loss carry forwards of Euro27 million.
Income from equity affiliates: Euro5 million (Euro34 million end of June 2002)
The drop in the contribution from equity affiliates results mainly from the
Group's share of losses at Carmeuse North America which amounted to Euro25 million,
arising from the complete write off of the associated goodwill. The Cement
Division's equity affiliates contributed Euro15 million, of which Molins
contributed Euro5 million. The Roofing and Gypsum Divisions' equity affiliates
generated Euro10 million.
11
The share of minority interests in net income totaled Euro37 million (Euro97 million
end of June 2002). The reduction in minority interests was due to the fall in
net income in North America and the change in consolidation method of Morocco.
The amortization of goodwill amounted to Euro60 million (Euro77 million end of June
2002).
Net income, Group share: Euro148 million (Euro291 million end of June 2002)
Net income per share: Euro1.1 (Euro2.3 end of June 2002)
CASHFLOW STATEMENT
The cash flow from operations totaled Euro616 million (Euro900 million end of June
2002)
Capital expenditure and Investments totaled Euro372 million (Euro738 million end of
June 2002):
Sustaining capital expenditure totaled Euro186 million, relating to the ongoing
upgrading of existing industrial operations around the world.
Capital expenditure for organic growth totaled Euro94 million, of which the most
significant were cement projects such as the new dry line at Kujawy in Poland,
the new line at Ewekoro in Nigeria, and our greenfield plant at Tetouan in
Morocco.
Acquisitions totaling Euro92 million, of which the most significant (Euro43 million)
was the completion by the Gypsum Division of the Gyproc acquisition in Germany
early in the year.
Disposals of Euro88 million (Euro214 million end of June 2002) being made up of a
variety of small divestments of none core assets.
BALANCE SHEET STATEMENT
These results do not reflect the proceeds from the rights issue which closed
after the end of the period on July 15.
Total equity as at June 30, 2003 stood at Euro8,738 million (Euro9,270 million end of
Dec 2002).
The reduction from December 31, 2002, reflects the translation losses due to the
continuing strengthening of the euro during the period and the dividend
distribution; these being partially offset by the income generated in the
period.
Net consolidated debt totaled Euro10,111 million (Euro10,216 million end of Dec 2002)
down Euro105 million from December 31, 2002, resulting from the seasonal increase
in working capital requirements being more than offset by the impact of currency
fluctuations of Euro360 million.
OUTLOOK
Even though uncertainty remains on the economic climate for the remainder of the
year, we have witnessed some recent improvement in activity in several markets,
as well as the development of some signs of turnaround on the pricing front in
Germany and the Philippines.
12
We will continue to focus on our performance plans, which remain on track. In
this context, and barring unusual weather conditions in the fourth quarter, the
Group continues to expect that operating income from ordinary activities for
2003 will be stable compared to 2002, before the impact of foreign currency
fluctuations.
Our capital expenditure and divestment programs are developing according to
plan, so that our debt reduction target of Euro1 billion, excluding the proceeds of
the recent rights issue, will be achieved.
Statements made in this press release that are not historical facts, including
statements regarding our debt reduction target, our capital expenditure target,
our plans for divestitures and our expected operating income are forward-looking
statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities
Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are not guarantees of future
performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions ("Factors"), which
are difficult to predict. Some of the Factors that could cause actual results to
differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements
include, but are not limited to: the cyclical nature of the Company's business;
national and regional economic conditions in the countries in which the Group
does business, currency fluctuations, seasonal nature of the Company's
operations; levels of construction spending in major markets, supply/demand
structure of the industry; competition from new or existing competitors;
unfavorable weather conditions during peak construction periods, changes in and
implementation of environmental and other governmental regulations, our ability
to successfully identify, complete and efficiently integrate acquisitions, our
ability to successfully penetrate new markets; and other Factors disclosed in
the Company's public filings with the French Commission des Operations de Bourse
and the US Securities and Exchange Commission including its Reference Document
COB number D03-0375 as updated on June 5, 2003 and annual report on Form 20-F in
general, the Company is subject to the risks and
uncertainties of the construction industry and of doing business throughout the
world. The forward-looking statements are made as of this date and the Company
undertakes no obligation to update them, whether as a result of new information,
future events or otherwise.
13
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(in million euros, except per share data) june-03 june-02
SALES 6350 7203
Cost of goods sold (4361) (4864)
Selling and administrative expenses (375) (937)
GROSS OPERATING INCOME 1114 1402
Depreciation (444) (534)
OPERATING INCOME ON ORDINARY ACTIVITIES 670 868
Gains on disposals, net 8 101
Other (expenses) income, net (73) (80)
OPERATING INCOME 605 889
Financial expenses, net (302) (264)
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAX, SHARE OF NET INCOME OF
EQUITY AFFILIATES, AMORTIZATION OF GOODWILL AND
MINORITY INTERESTS 303 625
Income tax (63) (194)
INCOME BEFORE SHARE OF NET INCOME OF EQUITY
AFFILIATES, AMORTIZATION OF GOODWILL AND MINORITY
INTERESTS 240 431
Share of net income of equity affiliates 5 34
Amortization of goodwill (60) (77)
Minority interests (37) (97)
NET INCOME 148 291
EARNINGS PER SHARE (EUROS) 1,13 2,27
Average number of outstanding shares (in thousands) 130 959 128 402
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in million euros) june-03 dec-02
Goodwill, net 4327 4633
Intangible assets, net 2701 2835
Property, plant and equipment, net 10981 11667
Investments in equity affiliates 633 652
Other investments 459 462
Long term receivables 870 919
Long term assets 19971 21168
Inventories, net 1596 1591
Accounts receivable-trade, net 2212 1816
Other receivables 1028 955
Cash and cash equivalents 1104 1109
Current assets 5940 5471
TOTAL ASSETS 25911 26639
Common stock 532 532
Additional paid-in capital 4546 4546
Retained earnings 3388 3548
Cumulative translation adiustments (1939) (1645)
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 6527 6981
Minority interests 2081 2155
Other equity 130 134
TOTAL EQUITY 8738 9270
DEFERRED TAXES 911 979
PROVISIONS 1809 1922
LONG-TERM DEBT 10212 10271
Accounts payable, trade 1137 1205
Other payables 2101 1938
Current portion of long-term debt 567 524
Short-term bank borrowings 436 530
CURRENT LIABILITIES 4241 4197
TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 25911 26639
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in million euros) june-03 june-02
NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net Income 148 291
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
operating activities
Minority interests 37 97
Depreciation and amortization of goodwill 504 611
Share of net income of equity affiliates less dividend received 3 (28)
Gains on disposals, net (excluding those of equity affiliates) (8) (101)
Deferred income taxes and tax provisions (82) 19
Other, net 14 11
Changes in operating working capital items (237) (245)
Net cash provided by operating activities 379 655
NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Capital expenditures (295) (538)
Investment in consolidated companies (1) (72) (106)
Investment in non consolidated companies (5) (94)
Disposals (2) 88 214
Net (increase) decrease in long-term receivables 7 (27)
Net cash used in investing activities (277) (551)
NET CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from issuance of common stock 16 76
Decrease (increase) in treasury stock 5
Increase (decrease) in other equity -
Dividends paid (including those paid to minority interests in subsidiaries) (376) (365)
Proceeds from long-term debt 209 833
Repayment of long-term debt (228) (900)
Increase (decrease) in short-term debt 292 225
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (82) (131)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 20 (27)
Net effect of foreign currency translation on cash and cash equivalents (25) (121)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 1 109 1 201
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 1 104 1 053
(1) Net of cash and cash equivalents of companies acquired
(2) Net of cash and cash equivalents of companies disposed of
Consolidated Figures
Sales
(Millions of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
By geographical zone of destination
Western Europe 2 852 3 019 -6%
Central and Eastern Europe 291 262 11%
Emerging Mediterranean 251 333 -25%
North America 1 601 1 999 -20%
Latin America & the Caribbean 297 403 -26%
Sub Saharan Africa/Indian Ocean/Others 429 449 -4%
Asia /Pacific 629 738 -15%
By business line
Cement 3 031 3 551 -15%
Aggregates & Concrete 1 980 2 218 -11%
Roofing 679 722 -6%
Gypsum 593 604 -2%
Others 67 108 -38%
Total 6 350 7 203 -12%
Operating income on ordinary activities
(Millions of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Western Europe 383 455 -16%
North America 11 84 -87%
Central and Eastern Europe 24 14 71%
Emerging Mediterranean 46 65 -29%
Asia/Pacific 53 70 -24%
Latin America & the Caribbean 82 121 -32%
Sub Saharan Africa/Indian Ocean/Others 71 59 20%
By business line
Cement 561 686 -18%
Aggregates & Concrete 52 85 -39%
Roofing 37 50 -26%
Gypsum 38 39 -3%
Others -18 8 -325%
Total Operating Income on ordinary activities 670 868 -23%
The geographical split of the total 41 million euros impact of the first 2003
semester of new assets life in cement is given in appendix (as well as change in
consolidation method for Morrocco)
Cement
Volumes by destination (adjusted for the contributions of our proportionaly
consolidated subsidiaries)
(million of tonnes) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Western Europe 15,2 16,5 -8%
North America 7,7 8,0 -4%
Central and Eastern Europe 3,6 3,0 20%
Emerging Mediterranean 4,8 5,1 -6%
Asia/Pacific 11,3 10,6 7%
Latin America & the Caribbean 3,0 3,4 -12%
Sub Saharan Africa/Indian Ocean 5,3 5,0 7%
Total 50,9 51,6 -1%
Sales after elimination of intra company transactions / by geographical zone of
destination
(million of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Western Europe 1 049 1 160 -10%
North America 587 756 -22%
Central and Eastern Europe 171 151 13%
Emerging Mediterranean 207 274 -24%
Asia/Pacific 452 533 -15%
Latin America & the Caribbean 202 282 -28%
Sub Saharan Africa/Indian Ocean/Others 363 395 -8%
Total consolidated sales 3 031 3 551 -15%
Sales by origin
(million of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Western Europe 1 175 1 276 -8%
North America 661 839 -21%
Central and Eastern Europe 179 156 15%
Emerging Mediterranean 189 267 -29%
Asia/Pacific 444 540 -18%
Latin America & the Caribbean 226 315 -28%
Sub Saharan Africa/Indian Ocean/Others 420 431 -3%
Total before elimination of intra-company sales 3 294 3 824 -14%
Total consolidated sales 3 031 3 551 -15%
Operating income on ordinary activities
(million of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Western Europe 261 290 -10%
North America 54 88 -39%
Central and Eastern Europe 25 21 19%
Emerging Mediterranean 46 66 -30%
Asia/Pacific 42 57 -26%
Latin America & the Caribbean 77 117 -34%
Sub Saharan Africa/Indian Ocean/Others 56 47 -19%
Total 561 686 -18%
Aggregates & Concrete
Volumes by destination (adjusted to the contributions of our proportionaly
consolidated subsidiaries)
Aggregates
(million of tonnes) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Western Europe 37,2 36,1 3%
North America 45,9 47,5 -3%
Other countries 8,2 7,9 4%
Total 91,3 91,5 0%
Concrete 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
(millions of cbm)
Western Europe 7,1 7,5 6%
North America 4,7 4,9 -4%
Other countries 4,6 5,0 -8%
Total 16,4 17,4 -6%
Sales after elimination of intra company transactions / by geographical zone of
destination
(million of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Aggregates & related products 834 917 -9%
Ready-mix concrete & concrete products 1 146 1 301 -12%
Total Aggregates & Concrete 1 980 2 218 -11%
of which Western Europe 920 930 -1%
" North America 834 1 020 -18%
" Other countries 226 268 -16%
Sales by origin
(million of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Aggregates & related products 842 925 -9%
Ready-mix concrete & concrete products 1 147 1 303 -12%
Total Aggregates & Concrete
(bef elim of intra-comp. sales) 1 989 2 228 -11%
of which Western Europe 926 937 -1%
" North America 836 1 023 -18%
" Other countries 227 268 -15%
Total Aggregate & Concrete (consolidated) 1 980 2 218 -11%
Operating income on ordinary activities
(million of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Aggregates & related products 23 46 -50%
Ready-mix concrete & concrete products 29 39 -26%
Total Aggregates & Concrete 52 85 -39%
of which Western Europe 73 73 0%
" North America -29 7 -514%
" Other countries 8 5 60%
GYPSUM
Volumes of gypsum wallboard (adjusted for the contributions of our proportionaly
consolidated
(millions of sqm) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Total 307 284 8%
Sales by origin (after elimination of intra-company sales)
(Millions of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Total 593 604 -2%
of which Western Europe 354 336 8%
of which North America 107 135 -21%
of which other countries 132 133 -1%
Operating income on ordinary activities
(Millions of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Total 38 39 -3%
of which Western Europe 37 37 0%
of which North America -13 -11 -18%
of which other countries 14 13 8%
ROOFING
Volumes by destination (adjusted for the contributions of our proportionaly
consolidated subsidiaries
2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Concrete roof tiles (millions of sqm)
Western Europe 32,0 32,3 -1%
North America 9,3 8,9 4%
other countries 16,3 18,1 -10%
Clay roof tiles
Europe (millions of sqm) 11,1 11,1 0%
Chimneys (millions of kms) 1 269 1 278 -1%
Sales by origin (after elimination of intra-company sales)
(Millions of Euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Total 679 722 -6%
of which concrete roof tiles Europe 245 254 -4%
North America 50 59 -15%
Other countries 49 60 -18%
of which clay roof tiles 121 121 0%
of which chimneys 78 79 0%
of which other roofing products 136 149 9%
Operating income on ordinary activities
(Millions of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Total 37 50 -26%
Europe 26 44 -41%
of which Germany 6 15 -60%
of which other countries 20 29 -31%
Others 11 6 -83%
OTHERS
Sales by origin (after elimination of intra-company sales)
2003S1 2002S1 03/02
(Millions of euros)
Others 67 108 -38%
Total 67 108 -38%
Operating income on ordinary activities
(Millions of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Others -18 8 -325%
Total -18 8 -325%
BCI TOTAL CONTRIBUTION
Sales
(Millions of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
By geographical zone of destination
Western Europe 504 546 -8%
North America 313 409 -23%
Central and Eastern Europe 4 5 -20%
Emerging Mediterranean 12 12 0%
Asia/Pacific 227 308 -26%
Latin America & the Caribbean 88 105 -16%
Sub Saharan Africa/Indian Ocean/Others 121 152 -20%
By business line
Cement 991 1 205 -18%
Aggregates & Concrete 266 325 -18%
Others 12 7 71%
Total 1 269 1 537 -17%
Estimated effect of former BCI units on Lafarge Group
Operating Income on Ordinary Activities
(Millions of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Western Europe 93 106 -12%
North America 16 32 -50%
Central and Eastern Europe 0 0 n/a
Emerging Mediterranean 0 -1 100%
Asia/Pacific 25 35 -29%
Latin America & the Caribbean 20 26 -23%
Sub Saharan Africa/Indian Ocean/Others 12 5 140%
By business line
Cement 149 185 -19%
Aggregates & Concrete 9 17 -47%
Roofing 0 0 n/a
Gypsum 0 0 n/a
Others 8 1 n/a
Total Operating income on ordinary activities 166 203 -18%
BCI contribution Cement
Volumes by destination (adjusted for the contributions of our proportionaly
consolidated subsidiaries)
(millions of tonnes) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Western Europe 6,3 6,7 -6%
North America 2,4 2,5 -4%
Central and Eastern Europe 0,1 0,2 -50%
Emerging Mediterranean 0,5 0,3 67%
Asia/Pacific 4,7 4,9 -4%
Latin America & the Caribbean 0,7 0,7 0%
Sub Saharan Africa/ Indian Ocean 1,8 1,9 -5%
Total 16,5 17,2 -4%
Sales after elimination of intra company transactions / by geographical zone of
destination
(Millions of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Western Europe 462 504 -8%
North America 173 239 -28%
Central and Eastern Europe 4 5 -20%
Emerging Mediterranean 12 12 0%
Asia/Pacific 185 249 -26%
Latin America & the Caribbean 34 44 -23%
Sub Saharan Africa/Indian ocean/Others 121 152 -20%
Total consolidated sales 991 1 205 -18%
Estimated effect of former BCI units on Lafarge Group Operating
Income on Ordinary Activities
(Millions of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Western Europe 84 104 -19%
North America 11 18 -39%
Central and Eastern Europe 0 0 n/a
Emerging Mediterranean 0 -1 100%
Asia/Pacific 26 36 -28%
Latin America & the Caribbean 16 23 -30%
Sub Saharan Africa/Indian ocean/Others 12 5 140%
Total 149 185 -19%
BCI contribution Aggregates & Concrete
Volumes by destination (adjusted for the contributions of our proportionaly
consolidated subsidiaries)
Aggregates 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
(millions of tonnes)
Western Europe 0,1 0,1 0%
North America 5,2 5,2 0%
Other countries 1,4 1,2 17%
Total 6,7 6,5 3%
Concrete 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
(millions of cbm)
Western Europe 0,6 0,7 -14%
North America 1,1 1,2 -8%
Other countries 2,4 2,5 -4%
Total 4,1 4,4 -7%
Sales after elimination of intra company transactions / by geographical zone of
destination
(Millions of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Aggregates & related products 31 38 -18%
Ready-mix concrete & concrete products 235 287 -18%
Total Aggregates & Concrete 266 325 -18%
of which Western Europe 33 35 -6%
" North America 140 170 -18%
" Other countries 93 120 -23%
Estimated effect of former BCI units on Lafarge Group Operating
Income on Ordinary Activities
(Millions of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Aggregates & related products 7 9 -22%
Ready-mix concrete & concrete products 2 8 -75%
Total Aggregates & Concrete 9 17 -47%
of which Western Europe 1 1 0%
" North America 5 14 -64%
" other countries 3 2 50%
Divisional overheads
BCI contribution Others
Sales by origin (after elimination of intra-company sales)
(Millions of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Others 12 7 71%
Estimated effect of former BCI units on Lafarge Group Operating
Income on Ordinary Activities
(Millions of euros) 2003S1 2002S1 03/02
Others 8 1 n/a
Group figures: impact of changes in methods
Operating income on ordinary activities: impact of change in depreciation life
of cement assets and change in consolidation method for Morrocco
2003S1 impact Morocco
(Millions of euros) of cement consolidated
new assets life proportionally
Western Europe -15
North America -8
Central and Eastern Europe -3
Emerging Mediterranean -6 22
Asia/Pacific -6
Latin America / Caribbean -3
Sub Saharan Africa/Indian Ocean/Others
By business line
Cement -41 21
Aggregates & Concrete 1
Roofing
Gypsum
Others
Total Operating income on ordinary activities -41 22
Cement: impact of changes in methods
Operating income on ordinary activities: impact of change in depreciation life
of cement assets and change in
consolidation method for Morrocco 2003S1 impact Morocco
(Millions of euros) of cement consolidated
new assets life proportionally
Western Europe -15
North America -8
Central and Eastern Europe -3
Emerging Mediterranean -6 21
Asia/Pacific -6
Latin America & the Caribbean -3
Sub Saharan Africa/Indian ocean/Others 0
Total -41 21
Aggregates & Concrete: impact of changes in methods
Operating income on ordinary activities: impact of change in
consolidation method for Morrocco Morocco
(Millions of euros) consolidated
proportionally
Aggregates & related products
Ready-mix concrete & concrete products 1
Total Aggregates & Concrete 1
of which Western Europe
" North America
" other countries 1
Group figures: incremental pension costs
Operating income on ordinary activities: incremental pension costs
(Millions of euros) 2003S1
By business line
Holding level 29
Cement 8
Aggregates & Concrete 6
Gypsum 1
Total Operating income on ordinary activities 44
This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
END
IR NKQKBOBKKFCK