FORM 6-K
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Report of Foreign Private Issuer
Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the month of May, 2012
Commission file number: 1-14872
SAPPI LIMITED
(Translation of registrant’s name into English)
48 Ameshoff Street
Braamfontein
Johannesburg 2001
REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
(Address of principal executive offices)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of 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):
Indicate by check mark whether by furnishing the information contained in this Form, the
registrant is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Yes No
X
-------
If “Yes” is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in
connection with Rule 12g3-2(b):n/a
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
Sappi Limited's report for the conformed second quarter results ended March 2012, furnished by the Registrant under this Form 6-K, is incorporated by reference into (i) the Registration Statements on Form S-8 of the Registrant filed December 23, 1999, December 15, 2004 and February 2, 2010 in connection with The Sappi Limited Share Incentive Scheme, (ii) the Section 10(a) Prospectus relating to the offer and sale of the Registrant's shares to Participants under The Sappi Limited Share Incentive Scheme, (iii) the Registration Statements on Form S-8 of the Registrant filed December 15, 2004 and December 21, 2005 in connection with The Sappi Limited 2004 Performance Share Incentive Plan and (iv) the Section 10(a) Prospectus relating to the offer and sale of the Registrant's shares to Participants under The Sappi Limited 2004 Performance Share Incentive Plan. This Form 6-K includes a conformed version of the earnings announcement sent by the Registrant to its shareholders. This conformed version was prepared solely for purposes of supplementing the documents referred to in clauses (i) - (iv) above.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
In order to utilize the "Safe Harbor " provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the "Reform Act"), Sappi Limited (the "Company") is providing the following cautionary statement. Exceptfor historical information contained herein, statements contained in this Report on Form 6-K may constitute"forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Reform Act. The words "believe", "anticipate", "expect","intend", "estimate ", "plan", "assume", "positioned", "will", "may", "should", "risk" and other similar expressions, which are predictions of or indicate future events and future trends, which do not relate to historical matters, identify forward-looking statements. In addition, this Report on Form 6-K may include forward-looking statements relating to the Company's potential exposure to various types of market risks, such as interest rate risk, foreign exchange rate risk and commodity price risk. Reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are in some cases beyond the control of the Company, together with its subsidiaries (the "Group"), and may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Group to differ materially from anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements (and from past results, performance or achievements). Certain factors that may cause such differences include but are not limited to:
· the highly cyclical nature of the pulp and paper industry (and the factors that contribute to suchcyclicality, such as levels of
demand, production capacity, production, input costs including rawmaterial, energy and employee costs, and pricing);
· the impact on the business of the global economic downturn;
· unanticipated production disruptions (including as a result of planned or unexpected power outages);
· changes in environmental, tax and other laws and regulations;
· adverse changes in the markets for the Group's products;
· consequences of the Group's leverage, including as a result of adverse changes in credit markets that affect the Group's
ability to raise capital when needed;
· adverse changes in the political situation and economy in the countries in which the Group operates or the effect of
governmental efforts to address present or future economic or social problems;
· the impact of restructurings, cost-reduction programmes, acquisitions and dispositions and other strategic initiatives (including
related financing), any delays, unexpected costs or other problems experienced in connection with dispositions or with
integrating acquisitions and achieving expected savings and synergies; and
· currency fluctuations.
These and other risks, uncertainties and factors are discussed in the Company's Annual Report on Form 20- F and other filings with and submissions to the Securities and Exchange Commission, including this Report on Form 6-K. Shareholders and prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of the submission of this Report on Form 6-K and are not intended to give any assurance as to future results. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any of these forward looking statements, whether to reflect new information or future events or circumstances or otherwise.
Sappi Limited's report for the conformed second quarter results ended March 2012, furnished by the Registrant under this Form 6-K, is incorporated by reference into (i) the Registration Statements on Form S-8 of the Registrant filed December 23, 1999, December 15, 2004 and February 2, 2010 in connection with The Sappi Limited Share Incentive Scheme, (ii) the Section 10(a) Prospectus relating to the offer and sale of the Registrant's shares to Participants under The Sappi Limited Share Incentive Scheme, (iii) the Registration Statements on Form S-8 of the Registrant filed December 15, 2004 and December 21, 2005 in connection with The Sappi Limited 2004 Performance Share Incentive Plan and (iv) the Section 10(a) Prospectus relating to the offer and sale of the Registrant's shares to Participants under The Sappi Limited 2004 Performance Share Incentive Plan. This Form 6-K includes a conformed version of the earnings announcement sent by the Registrant to its shareholders. This conformed version was prepared solely for purposes of supplementing the documents referred to in clauses (i) - (iv) above.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
In order to utilize the "Safe Harbor " provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the "Reform Act"), Sappi Limited (the "Company") is providing the following cautionary statement. Exceptfor historical information contained herein, statements contained in this Report on Form 6-K may constitute"forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Reform Act. The words "believe", "anticipate", "expect","intend", "estimate ", "plan", "assume", "positioned", "will", "may", "should", "risk" and other similar expressions, which are predictions of or indicate future events and future trends, which do not relate to historical matters, identify forward-looking statements. In addition, this Report on Form 6-K may include forward-looking statements relating to the Company's potential exposure to various types of market risks, such as interest rate risk, foreign exchange rate risk and commodity price risk. Reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are in some cases beyond the control of the Company, together with its subsidiaries (the "Group"), and may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Group to differ materially from anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements (and from past results, performance or achievements). Certain factors that may cause such differences include but are not limited to:
· the highly cyclical nature of the pulp and paper industry (and the factors that contribute to suchcyclicality, such as levels of
demand, production capacity, production, input costs including rawmaterial, energy and employee costs, and pricing);
· the impact on the business of the global economic downturn;
· unanticipated production disruptions (including as a result of planned or unexpected power outages);
· changes in environmental, tax and other laws and regulations;
· adverse changes in the markets for the Group's products;
· consequences of the Group's leverage, including as a result of adverse changes in credit markets that affect the Group's
ability to raise capital when needed;
· adverse changes in the political situation and economy in the countries in which the Group operates or the effect of
governmental efforts to address present or future economic or social problems;
· the impact of restructurings, cost-reduction programmes, acquisitions and dispositions and other strategic initiatives (including
related financing), any delays, unexpected costs or other problems experienced in connection with dispositions or with
integrating acquisitions and achieving expected savings and synergies; and
· currency fluctuations.
These and other risks, uncertainties and factors are discussed in the Company's Annual Report on Form 20- F and other filings with and submissions to the Securities and Exchange Commission, including this Report on Form 6-K. Shareholders and prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of the submission of this Report on Form 6-K and are not intended to give any assurance as to future results. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any of these forward looking statements, whether to reflect new information or future events or circumstances or otherwise.
2nd
Quarter results for
the half-year ended
March 2012
the half-year ended
March 2012
Form S-8 version
Sappi works closely with customers,
both direct and indirect, in over
100 countries to provide them with
relevant and sustainable paper,
paper-pulp and chemical cellulose
products and related services and
innovations.
both direct and indirect, in over
100 countries to provide them with
relevant and sustainable paper,
paper-pulp and chemical cellulose
products and related services and
innovations.
Our market-leading range of paper
products includes: coated fine
papers used by printers, publishers
and corporate end-users in the
production of books, brochures,
magazines, catalogues, direct mail
and many other print applications;
casting release papers used by
suppliers to the fashion, textiles,
automobile and household industries;
and in our Southern African region,
newsprint, uncoated graphic and
business papers, premium-quality
packaging papers, paper-grade pulp
and chemical cellulose.
products includes: coated fine
papers used by printers, publishers
and corporate end-users in the
production of books, brochures,
magazines, catalogues, direct mail
and many other print applications;
casting release papers used by
suppliers to the fashion, textiles,
automobile and household industries;
and in our Southern African region,
newsprint, uncoated graphic and
business papers, premium-quality
packaging papers, paper-grade pulp
and chemical cellulose.
Our chemical cellulose products are
used worldwide by converters to
create viscose fibre, acetate tow,
pharmaceutical products as well as
a wide range of consumer products.
used worldwide by converters to
create viscose fibre, acetate tow,
pharmaceutical products as well as
a wide range of consumer products.
The pulp needed for our products
is either produced within Sappi or
bought from accredited suppliers.
Across the group, Sappi is close to
‘pulp neutral’, meaning that we sell
almost as much pulp as we buy.
is either produced within Sappi or
bought from accredited suppliers.
Across the group, Sappi is close to
‘pulp neutral’, meaning that we sell
almost as much pulp as we buy.
2nd quarter results
* for the period ended March 2012
54%
Sales by source*
North America
Europe
Southern Africa
Southern Africa
24%
22%
54%
24%
24%
22%
14%
7%
7%
7%
Sales by product group*
Specialities
Commodity paper
Pulp
Other
Commodity paper
Pulp
Other
1%
64%
Consolidated fine
paper
64%
Uncoated fine paper
paper
7%
7%
7%
7%
7%
1%
14%
13%
46%
Sales by destination*
Asia and other
North America
Europe
Southern Africa
Southern Africa
14%
27%
27%
46%
13%
14%
13%
14%
This cover picture is a photograph of a stylised transverse cross-section of Eucalyptus wood.
The large circles are vessels which transport water up and down the tree and the smaller
circles are the fibres which we use to make paper and chemical cellulose.
The large circles are vessels which transport water up and down the tree and the smaller
circles are the fibres which we use to make paper and chemical cellulose.
Fibres are separated in the pulping process through the softening and removal of lignin which
acts as a glue between the fibres in the wood. In papermaking, fibres are re-formed to form
a flat, strong and uniform surface for printing and writing.
acts as a glue between the fibres in the wood. In papermaking, fibres are re-formed to form
a flat, strong and uniform surface for printing and writing.
Photograph taken by
Dr Valerie Grzekowiak
1
sappi 2nd quarter results
Financial summary for the quarter
·
Profit for the period US$58 million (Q2 2011 loss US$74 million)
·
EPS 11 US cents (Q2 2011 loss per share 14 US cents)
·
Net cash generated from operating and investing activities
US$91 million (Q2 2011 US$100 million)
US$91 million (Q2 2011 US$100 million)
·
Cost savings led to improved performance in European business
·
Southern African chemical cellulose business continues strong
performance
performance
Quarter ended
Half-year ended
Mar
2012
Mar 2011
Dec 2011
Mar 2012
Mar 2011*
Key figures: (US$ million)
Sales
1,633
1,824
1,585
3,218
3,697
Operating profit (loss)
120
(1)
107
227
120
Special items – losses (gains)
(1)
5
128
(7)
(2)
144
Operating profit excluding special items
(2)
125
127
100
225
264
Profit (loss) for the period
58
(74)
45
103
(37)
EBITDA excluding special items
(3)
217
228
194
411
474
Basic earnings (loss) per share
(US cents)
11
(14)
9
20
(7)
Key ratios: (%)
Operating profit (loss) to sales
7.4
(0.1)
6.8
7.1
3.3
Operating profit excluding special items
to sales
7.7
7.0
6.3
7.0
7.1
EBITDA excluding special items to sales
13.3
12.5
12.2
12.8
12.8
Net asset value per share (US cents)
315
375
291
315
375
* The half-year ended Mar 2011 consisted of 27 weeks whereas the half-year ended Mar 2012 consisted of 26 weeks.
(1)
Refer to note 10 to the group results for details on special items.
(2)
Refer to note 10 to the group results for the reconciliation of operating profit excluding special items to segment operating profit (loss)
and profit (loss) for the period.
(3)
Refer to note 10 to the group results for the reconciliation of EBITDA excluding special items and operating profit excluding special
items to segment operating profit (loss) and profit (loss) for the period.
2
Commentary on the quarter
The improving trend in operating performance continued in the quarter, with the European and
North American businesses in particular showing good improvement. The group achieved a profit
for the period of US$58 million (Q2 2011 loss of US$74 million) and EPS of 11 US cents (Q2 2011
loss 14 US cents) in the second quarter of the 2012 financial year.
North American businesses in particular showing good improvement. The group achieved a profit
for the period of US$58 million (Q2 2011 loss of US$74 million) and EPS of 11 US cents (Q2 2011
loss 14 US cents) in the second quarter of the 2012 financial year.
Market conditions for coated paper have been weaker than in the equivalent period last year.
Despite this, our operating rates remained good in both Europe and North America. Variable costs
and fixed costs are generally lower, particularly in Europe, enabling margins to be maintained
or widened.
Despite this, our operating rates remained good in both Europe and North America. Variable costs
and fixed costs are generally lower, particularly in Europe, enabling margins to be maintained
or widened.
The Southern African chemical cellulose business continues to perform strongly, driven by strong
sales volumes.
sales volumes.
Pulp prices, which had been weakening since July 2011, stopped declining midway through the
quarter, and have since been gradually increasing. This increase in pulp prices benefits our
Southern African and North American businesses as they are net sellers of pulp, but has a negative
effect on the input costs of our European business.
quarter, and have since been gradually increasing. This increase in pulp prices benefits our
Southern African and North American businesses as they are net sellers of pulp, but has a negative
effect on the input costs of our European business.
Group operating profit for the quarter was US$120 million compared to a loss of US$1 million in
the equivalent quarter last year. Operating profit excluding special items of US$125 million for the
quarter was similar to that of the equivalent quarter in the prior year, and a significant improvement
compared to the quarter ended December 2011. The sequential improvement was driven mainly
by the improved performance from the European and North American businesses.
the equivalent quarter last year. Operating profit excluding special items of US$125 million for the
quarter was similar to that of the equivalent quarter in the prior year, and a significant improvement
compared to the quarter ended December 2011. The sequential improvement was driven mainly
by the improved performance from the European and North American businesses.
Special items for the quarter were a charge of US$5 million, largely comprising a plantation price
fair value loss.
fair value loss.
Finance costs for the quarter of US$51 million were significantly lower than the US$68 million
incurred in the equivalent quarter last year. The equivalent quarter included breakage fees incurred
as a result of the refinancing that we concluded during the 2011 financial year. In addition, the
2011 refinancing and the repayment of debt with cash on hand led to a decrease in interest costs
for the quarter.
incurred in the equivalent quarter last year. The equivalent quarter included breakage fees incurred
as a result of the refinancing that we concluded during the 2011 financial year. In addition, the
2011 refinancing and the repayment of debt with cash on hand led to a decrease in interest costs
for the quarter.
3
sappi
2nd quarter results
Cash flow and debt
Cash generated from operations was US$214 million for the quarter and net cash generated from
operating and investing activities was US$91 million.
operating and investing activities was US$91 million.
Capital expenditure for the quarter was US$60 million and for the full year is expected to be
approximately US$450 million including the investments in the announced chemical cellulose
projects.
approximately US$450 million including the investments in the announced chemical cellulose
projects.
Interest-bearing borrowings (including bank overdrafts) less cash and cash equivalents (‘net debt’)
reduced to US$2,133 million as a result of cash generation during the quarter offset by currency
and fair value movements.
reduced to US$2,133 million as a result of cash generation during the quarter offset by currency
and fair value movements.
After the end of the quarter, a three year South African bond of R750 million (US$98 million) was
raised. The floating rate interest was swapped for a fixed interest rate of approximately 7.8% for
the life of the bond. The proceeds of this bond will be used to redeem a 12.1% R500 million
(US$65 million) South African bond due at the end of June, and to reduce other debt.
raised. The floating rate interest was swapped for a fixed interest rate of approximately 7.8% for
the life of the bond. The proceeds of this bond will be used to redeem a 12.1% R500 million
(US$65 million) South African bond due at the end of June, and to reduce other debt.
Operating Review – Quarter ended March 2012 compared with quarter
ended March 2011
ended March 2011
NOTE: In order to provide greater context to the performance of our regional businesses, the tables below summarise the
regional results for 5 consecutive quarters.
regional results for 5 consecutive quarters.
Sappi Fine Paper
Quarter
Quarter
Quarter
Quarter
Quarter
ended
ended
ended
ended
ended
Mar 2012
Dec 2011
Sept 2011
Jun 2011
Mar 2011
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
Sales
1,232
1,198
1,337
1,350
1,389
Operating profit (loss)
77
44
22
28
(42)
Operating profit (loss) to
sales (%)
sales (%)
6.3
3.7
1.6
2.1
(3.0)
Special items – (gains) losses
(4)
(5)
17
2
113
Operating profit excluding
special items
special items
73
39
39
30
71
Operating profit excluding
special items to sales (%)
special items to sales (%)
5.9
3.3
2.9
2.2
5.1
The coated paper business in both North America and Europe saw declines in demand compared
to the equivalent quarter in the prior year. The overall performance improved compared to the prior
quarter as a result of lower costs and an improved operating performance in the North American
business, as well as the cost savings achieved in the European business.
to the equivalent quarter in the prior year. The overall performance improved compared to the prior
quarter as a result of lower costs and an improved operating performance in the North American
business, as well as the cost savings achieved in the European business.
4
Europe
Quarter
Quarter
Quarter
Quarter
Quarter
ended
ended
ended
ended
ended
Mar 2012
Dec 2011
Sept 2011
Jun 2011
Mar 2011
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
Sales
883
846
942
979
1,017
Operating profit (loss)
53
34
(18)
(4)
(83)
Operating profit (loss) to
sales (%)
sales (%)
6.0
4.0
(1.9)
(0.4)
(8.2)
Special items – gains
(4)
(5)
23
2
114
Operating profit excluding
special items
special items
49
29
5
(2)
31
Operating profit excluding
special items to sales (%)
special items to sales (%)
5.5
3.4
0.5
(0.2)
3.0
Despite subdued market conditions, the European business experienced a further improvement in
operating performance during the quarter as a result of the fixed and variable cost reduction
actions and lower pulp prices compared to the equivalent quarter in the prior year. We remain on
track to meet our cost reduction target of US$100 million on an annual basis for the year.
operating performance during the quarter as a result of the fixed and variable cost reduction
actions and lower pulp prices compared to the equivalent quarter in the prior year. We remain on
track to meet our cost reduction target of US$100 million on an annual basis for the year.
Operating rates improved in the quarter despite a slowdown in European demand, helped by a
recovery in export sales. Prices realised for coated woodfree paper were 3.6% lower than the
equivalent quarter last year and 1.6% higher for coated mechanical paper. The coated specialities
business continues to perform well, with an increase in volumes and prices compared to the
equivalent quarter in the prior year.
recovery in export sales. Prices realised for coated woodfree paper were 3.6% lower than the
equivalent quarter last year and 1.6% higher for coated mechanical paper. The coated specialities
business continues to perform well, with an increase in volumes and prices compared to the
equivalent quarter in the prior year.
The European business continues to generate strong cash flows, generating a significant portion
of the group’s net cash.
of the group’s net cash.
5
sappi 2nd quarter results
North America
Quarter
Quarter
Quarter
Quarter
Quarter
ended
ended
ended
ended
ended
Mar 2012
Dec 2011
Sept 2011
Jun 2011
Mar 2011
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
Sales
349
352
395
371
372
Operating profit
24
10
40
32
41
Operating profit to sales (%)
6.9
2.8
10.1
8.6
11.0
Special items – gains
–
–
(6)
–
(1)
Operating profit excluding
special items
special items
24
10
34
32
40
Operating profit excluding
special items to sales (%)
special items to sales (%)
6.9
2.8
8.6
8.6
10.8
The performance of the North American business improved, following the scheduled maintenance
outages and unplanned pulp production issues at Somerset Mill in the last quarter and which were
resolved in the first half of this quarter.
outages and unplanned pulp production issues at Somerset Mill in the last quarter and which were
resolved in the first half of this quarter.
Sales volumes were lower than the equivalent quarter last year. Average prices for coated paper
were stable year-on-year, and price increases for coated woodfree paper have been announced
for implementation in June.
were stable year-on-year, and price increases for coated woodfree paper have been announced
for implementation in June.
The casting release business saw a slight improvement in sales volumes and prices compared to
the prior quarter and the market continues to improve, particularly in China. Volumes in this
business remain below those of the equivalent quarter in the prior year with prices at similar levels.
the prior quarter and the market continues to improve, particularly in China. Volumes in this
business remain below those of the equivalent quarter in the prior year with prices at similar levels.
6
Sappi Southern Africa
Quarter
Quarter
Quarter
Quarter Quarter
ended
ended
ended
ended
ended
Mar 2012
Dec 2011
Sept 2011
Jun 2011
Mar 2011
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
Sales
401
387
450
452
435
Operating profit (loss)
44
63
(64)
22
39
Operating profit (loss) to
sales (%)
sales (%)
11.0
16.3 (14.2)
4.9
9.0
Special items – losses (gains)
9
(2)
105
4
14
Operating profit excluding
special items
special items
53
61
41
26
53
Operating profit excluding
special items to sales (%)
special items to sales (%)
13.2
15.8
9.1
5.8
12.2
The Southern African chemical cellulose business continued its strong performance in the quarter.
Sales volumes increased over the prior quarter while sales prices, which are generally linked to
NBSK prices, declined in Rand terms over the period as a result of a stronger Rand/US Dollar
exchange rate and a lower average NBSK US Dollar price. NBSK prices in dollar terms have been
increasing since March.
Sales volumes increased over the prior quarter while sales prices, which are generally linked to
NBSK prices, declined in Rand terms over the period as a result of a stronger Rand/US Dollar
exchange rate and a lower average NBSK US Dollar price. NBSK prices in dollar terms have been
increasing since March.
The Southern African paper business experienced a mixed quarter, with graphic paper demand
generally good, but with packaging demand constrained by competition from imports. The
restructuring announced last year proceeded as planned during the quarter, including the closure
of the pulp mill at Enstra Mill, the kraft pulp mill at Tugela Mill and a 10,000-ton kraft paper machine
at Tugela Mill. The benefits of these actions should start to materialise from the third quarter.
generally good, but with packaging demand constrained by competition from imports. The
restructuring announced last year proceeded as planned during the quarter, including the closure
of the pulp mill at Enstra Mill, the kraft pulp mill at Tugela Mill and a 10,000-ton kraft paper machine
at Tugela Mill. The benefits of these actions should start to materialise from the third quarter.
7
sappi 2nd quarter results
Directorate
We announced during the quarter that Mr Steve Binnie will join Sappi as Chief Financial Officer
Designate on 09 July 2012. Mr Binnie will become Chief Financial Officer and an Executive Director
of the company on 01 September 2012, following Mr Mark Thompson’s retirement at the end of
August 2012 as Chief Financial Officer and as an Executive Director.
Designate on 09 July 2012. Mr Binnie will become Chief Financial Officer and an Executive Director
of the company on 01 September 2012, following Mr Mark Thompson’s retirement at the end of
August 2012 as Chief Financial Officer and as an Executive Director.
Outlook
We expect demand for our coated paper to remain challenging compared to last year, but for most
major input costs to remain below the levels seen a year ago. The European and South African
businesses will benefit from the restructuring actions taken in these regions.
major input costs to remain below the levels seen a year ago. The European and South African
businesses will benefit from the restructuring actions taken in these regions.
The Southern African chemical cellulose business is expected to continue to perform well. The
conversion projects at Ngodwana and Cloquet mills are on track for start-up in our third financial
quarter of 2013. We have received good support from a range of customers for the future increase
in production volumes.
conversion projects at Ngodwana and Cloquet mills are on track for start-up in our third financial
quarter of 2013. We have received good support from a range of customers for the future increase
in production volumes.
Our third financial quarter is historically and seasonally the weakest quarter, and will be further
impacted, as it was last year, by planned annual maintenance shuts at a number of our major pulp
mills. These shuts will result in an increase in maintenance costs and lost contribution from
reduced output and sales. We expect our operating profit excluding special items for the third
financial quarter to be in line with the equivalent quarter last year.
impacted, as it was last year, by planned annual maintenance shuts at a number of our major pulp
mills. These shuts will result in an increase in maintenance costs and lost contribution from
reduced output and sales. We expect our operating profit excluding special items for the third
financial quarter to be in line with the equivalent quarter last year.
For the full year we expect operating profit excluding special items to be in line with the previous
financial year, and for the group to generate positive earnings per share.
financial year, and for the group to generate positive earnings per share.
We expect positive cash generation for the balance of the year, leading to a further reduction in
net debt. We will consider refinancing our higher cost debt, including the bonds due in 2014, when
market conditions are favourable and it makes economic sense to do so.
net debt. We will consider refinancing our higher cost debt, including the bonds due in 2014, when
market conditions are favourable and it makes economic sense to do so.
On behalf of the board
R J Boëttger
M R Thompson
Director
Director
10 May 2012
sappi limited
(Registration number 1936/008963/06)
Issuer Code: SAVVI
JSE Code: SAP
ISIN: ZAE000006284
Issuer Code: SAVVI
JSE Code: SAP
ISIN: ZAE000006284
8
Condensed group income statement
Quarter Quarter
Half-year
Half-year
ended ended ended
ended
Mar 2012 Mar
2011 Mar 2012 Mar
2011
Note
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
Sales
1,633
1,824
3,218
3,697
Cost of sales
1,408
1,596
2,785
3,233
Gross profit
225
228
433
464
Selling, general and administrative expenses
107
109
212
221
Other operating (income) expenses
(2)
122
(6)
127
Share of profit from associates and
joint ventures
joint ventures
–
(2)
–
(4)
Operating profit (loss)
2
120
(1)
227
120
Net finance costs
51
68
105
139
Net interest
55
77
111
155
Finance cost capitalised
(2)
–
(2)
–
Net foreign exchange gains
(1)
(3)
(2)
(7)
Net fair value gains on financial
instruments
instruments
(1)
(6)
(2)
(9)
Profit (loss) before taxation
69
(69)
122
(19)
Taxation
11
5
19
18
Current
6
2
5
4
Deferred
5
3
14
14
Profit (loss) for the period
58
(74)
103
(37)
Basic earnings (loss) per share
(US cents)
(US cents)
11
(14)
20
(7)
Weighted average number of shares in
issue (millions)
issue (millions)
520.8
519.7
520.7
519.6
Diluted basic earnings (loss) per share
(US cents)
(US cents)
11
(14)
20
(7)
Weighted average number of shares on
fully diluted basis (millions)
fully diluted basis (millions)
525.0
519.7
524.7
519.6
Condensed group statement of comprehensive income
Quarter
Quarter
Half-year
Half-year
ended
ended
ended
ended
Mar 2012
Mar 2011
Mar 2012 Mar
2011
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
Profit (loss) for the period
58
(74)
103
(37)
Other comprehensive income (loss),
net of tax
net of tax
64
5
53
83
Exchange differences on translation of
foreign operations
foreign operations
58
(13)
60
69
Movements in hedging reserves
5
18
(9)
15
Deferred tax effect of above items
1
–
2
(1)
Total comprehensive income (loss) for
the period
the period
122
(69)
156
46
9
sappi 2nd quarter results
Condensed group balance sheet
Mar 2012
Sept 2011
US$ million
US$ million
ASSETS
Non-current assets
4,103
4,085
Property, plant and equipment
3,224
3,235
Plantations
613
580
Deferred taxation
45
45
Other non-current assets
221
225
Current assets
2,044
2,223
Inventories
826
750
Trade and other receivables
753
834
Cash and cash equivalents
453
639
Assets held for sale
12
–
Total assets
6,147
6,308
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
Shareholders’ equity
Ordinary shareholders’ interest
1,642
1,478
Non-current liabilities
3,140
3,178
Interest-bearing borrowings
2,220
2,289
Deferred taxation
363
336
Other non-current liabilities
557
553
Current liabilities
1,365
1,652
Interest-bearing borrowings
366
449
Bank overdraft
–
1
Other current liabilities
984
1,182
Taxation payable
15
20
Total equity and liabilities
6,147
6,308
Number of shares in issue at balance sheet date (millions)
520.8
520.5
10
Condensed group statement of cash flows
Quarter
Quarter
Half-year
Half-year
ended
ended ended
ended
Mar 2012
Mar 2011
Mar 2012 Mar
2011
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
Profit (loss) for the period
58
(74)
103
(37)
Adjustment for:
Depreciation, fellings and amortisation
112
122
225
253
Taxation
11
5
19
18
Net finance costs
51
68
105
139
Defined post-employment benefits
(12)
(19)
(23)
(33)
Plantation fair value adjustments
(15)
(13)
(39)
(23)
Asset impairments
–
69
–
69
Net restructuring provisions
1
63
1
66
Black economic empowerment charge
1
1
2
2
Other non-cash items
7
–
16
13
Cash generated from operations
214
222
409
467
Movement in working capital
(24)
17
(190)
(318)
Net finance costs paid
(37)
(91)
(101)
(154)
Taxation paid
(5)
(12)
(10)
(14)
Cash retained from (utilised in)
operating activities
operating activities
148
136
108
(19)
Cash utilised in investing activities
(57)
(36)
(128)
(77)
Cash generated (utilised) from operating and
investing activities
investing activities
91
100
(20)
(96)
Cash effects of financing activities
(57)
(159)
(174)
(174)
Net movement in cash and
cash equivalents
cash equivalents
34
(59)
(194)
(270)
Condensed group statement of changes in equity
Half-year Half-year
ended
ended
Mar 2012 Mar
2011
US$ million US$
million
Balance – beginning of period
1,478
1,896
Total comprehensive income for the period
156
46
Transfers from the share purchase trust
2
1
Transfers of vested share options
(2)
–
Share-based payment reserve
8
8
Balance – end of period
1,642
1,951
11
sappi 2nd quarter results
Notes to the condensed group results
1.
Basis of preparation
The condensed consolidated interim financial results for the six months ended March 2012 have
been prepared in compliance with the Listings Requirements of the JSE Limited and in accordance
with the framework concepts and the measurement and recognition requirements of International
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board,
AC 500 standards issued by the Accounting Practices Board, the requirements of the Companies Act
of South Africa and the information required by IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting. The accounting
policies applied in the preparation of these interim financial results are consistent with those applied
for the year ended September 2011.
been prepared in compliance with the Listings Requirements of the JSE Limited and in accordance
with the framework concepts and the measurement and recognition requirements of International
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board,
AC 500 standards issued by the Accounting Practices Board, the requirements of the Companies Act
of South Africa and the information required by IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting. The accounting
policies applied in the preparation of these interim financial results are consistent with those applied
for the year ended September 2011.
The half-year ended March 2012 consisted of 26 weeks compared to the fiscal half-year ended
March 2011 which consisted of 27 weeks.
March 2011 which consisted of 27 weeks.
The preparation of this condensed consolidated financial information was supervised by the Chief
Financial Officer, M R Thompson CA (SA).
Financial Officer, M R Thompson CA (SA).
The results are unaudited.
Quarter
Quarter
Half-year
Half-year
ended
ended
ended
ended
Mar 2012
Mar 2011
Mar 2012
Mar 2011
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
2.
Operating fit (loss)
Included in operating profit (loss) are the
following non-cash items:
following non-cash items:
Depreciation and amortisation
92
101
186
210
Fair value adjustment on plantations
(included in cost of sales)
(included in cost of sales)
Changes in volume
Fellings
20
21
39
43
Growth
(22)
(16)
(43)
(37)
(2)
5
(4)
6
Plantation price fair value
adjustment
adjustment
7
3
4
14
5
8
–
20
Included in other operating (income)
expenses are the following:
expenses are the following:
Asset impairments
–
69
–
69
profit on disposal of perty,
plant and equipment
plant and equipment
(4)
–
(9)
–
Net restructuring visions
1
63
1
66
Black Economic Empowerment
charge
charge
1
1
2
2
12
Quarter
Quarter
Half-year Half-year
ended
ended
ended ended
Mar 2012
Mar 2011
Mar 2012 Mar
2011
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million US$
million
3.
Headline earnings (loss) per share
Headline earnings (loss) per share
(US cents)
(US cents)
10
(2)
18
5
Weighted average number of shares
in issue (millions)
in issue (millions)
520.8
519.7
520.7
519.6
Diluted headline earnings (loss) per share
(US cents)
(US cents)
10
(2)
18
5
Weighted average number of shares on
fully diluted basis (millions)
fully diluted basis (millions)
525.0
519.7
524.7
519.6
Calculation of headline earnings (loss)
Profit (loss) for the period
58
(74)
103
(37)
Asset impairments
–
69
–
69
Profit on disposal of property, plant
and equipment
and equipment
(4)
–
(9)
–
Tax effect of above items
–
(5)
–
(5)
Headline earnings (loss)
54
(10)
94
27
4.
Capital expenditure
Property, plant and equipment
60
47
136
92
Mar 2012 Sept
2011
US$ million
US$ million
5.
Capital commitments
Contracted
213
61
Approved but not contracted
449
416
662
477
The increase is primarily due to the announced conversion of the Cloquet Mill in North America to
produce chemical cellulose.
produce chemical cellulose.
6.
Contingent liabilities
Guarantees and suretyships
37
33
Other contingent liabilities
8
15
45
48
7.
Material balance sheet movements
Cash and cash equivalents, interest-bearing borrowings and other current liabilities
The group repaid US$174 million of debt from cash resources including the ZAR 10.64% xed rate
public bonds in Southern Africa of US$130 million (ZAR1,000 million) and US$20 million of the on-
balance sheet securitisation debt.
The group repaid US$174 million of debt from cash resources including the ZAR 10.64% xed rate
public bonds in Southern Africa of US$130 million (ZAR1,000 million) and US$20 million of the on-
balance sheet securitisation debt.
In addition, other current liabilities were reduced by payments of restructuring and accruals.
13
sappi 2nd quarter results
8.
Assets held for sale
Sappi has initiated a plan to sell certain land and buildings within our Sappi Fine Paper European
operations.
operations.
9. Post balance sheet events
In April 2012, Sappi Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd issued a three-year ZAR750 million (US$98 million)
floating rate bond (‘SSA02’) at a 144 basis points spread over the government reference rate. The
floating rate of the new bond was swapped into a fixed rate of 7.78%.
floating rate of the new bond was swapped into a fixed rate of 7.78%.
The proceeds of the bond will partly be used to refinance the ZAR500 million (US$65 million) bond
(‘SMF3’) maturing on 29 June 2012.
(‘SMF3’) maturing on 29 June 2012.
10.
Segment information
Quarter
Quarter
Half-year
Half-year
ended
ended ended
ended
Mar 2012
Mar 2011
Mar 2012
Mar 2011
Metric tons
Metric
tons
Metric tons
Metric
tons
(000’s)
(000’s)
(000’s)
(000’s)
Sales volume
Fine Paper –
Fine Paper –
North America
341
349
680
713
Europe
919
982
1,768
1,994
Total
1,260
1,331
2,448
2,707
Southern Africa –
Pulp and paper
418
414
818
866
Forestry
295
242
536
436
Total
1,973
1,987
3,802
4,009
Quarter
Quarter
Half-year
Half-year
ended
ended
ended
ended
Mar 2012
Mar 2011
Mar 2012
Mar 2011
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
Sales
Fine Paper –
Fine Paper –
North America
349
372
701
754
Europe
883
1,017
1,729
2,044
Total
1,232
1,389
2,430
2,798
Southern Africa –
Pulp and paper
379
414
747
861
Forestry
22
21
41
38
Total
1,633
1,824
3,218
3,697
Operating profit (loss) excluding
special items
Fine Paper –
special items
Fine Paper –
North America
24
40
34
63
Europe
49
31
78
65
Total
73
71
112
128
Southern Africa
53
53
114
132
Unallocated and eliminations
(1)
(1)
3
(1)
4
Total
125
127
225
264
14
Quarter
Quarter
Half-year
Half-year
ended
ended ended
ended
Mar 2012
Mar 2011 Mar 2012
Mar 2011
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million
Special items – losses (gains)
Fine Paper –
Fine Paper –
North America
–
(1)
–
(1)
Europe
(4)
114
(9)
114
Total
(4)
113
(9)
113
Southern Africa
9
14
7
27
Unallocated and eliminations
(1)
–
1
–
4
Total
5
128
(2)
144
Segment operating profit (loss)
Fine Paper –
Fine Paper –
North America
24
41
34
64
Europe
53
(83)
87
(49)
Total
77
(42)
121
15
Southern Africa
44
39
107
105
Unallocated and eliminations
(1)
(1)
2
(1)
–
Total
120
(1)
227
120
EBITDA excluding special items
Fine Paper –
Fine Paper –
North America
43
58
72
100
Europe
96
86
177
181
Total
139
144
249
281
Southern Africa
78
81
162
189
Unallocated and eliminations
(1)
–
3
–
4
Total
217
228
411
474
Segment assets
Fine Paper –
Fine Paper –
North America
946
956
946
956
Europe
1,901
2,120
1,901
2,120
Total
2,847
3,076
2,847
3,076
Southern Africa
1,751
2,092
1,751
2,092
Unallocated and eliminations
(1)
52
70
52
70
Total
4,650
5,238
4,650
5,238
(1) Includes the group’s treasury operations, the self-insurance captive and the investment in the Jiangxi Chenming joint venture.
15
sappi
2nd quarter results
Reconciliation of EBITDA excluding special items and operating profit excluding special items
to segment operating profit (loss) and profit (loss) for the period
to segment operating profit (loss) and profit (loss) for the period
(1)
Special items cover those items which management believe are material by nature or amount to
operating results and require separate disclosure. Such items would generally include profit or loss
on disposal of property, investments and businesses, asset impairments, restructuring charges, non-
recurring integration costs related to acquisitions, nancial impacts of natural disasters, non-cash
gains or losses on the price fair value adjustment of plantations and alternative fuel tax credits
receivable in cash.
operating results and require separate disclosure. Such items would generally include profit or loss
on disposal of property, investments and businesses, asset impairments, restructuring charges, non-
recurring integration costs related to acquisitions, nancial impacts of natural disasters, non-cash
gains or losses on the price fair value adjustment of plantations and alternative fuel tax credits
receivable in cash.
Quarter
Quarter
Half-year Half-year
ended ended
ended
ended
Mar 2012
Mar 2011 Mar 2012
Mar 2011
US$ million
US$ million
US$ million US$ million
EBITDA excluding special items
217
228
411
474
Depreciation and amortisation
(92)
(101)
(186)
(210)
Operating profit excluding special items
125
127
225
264
Special items – (losses) gains
(5)
(128)
2
(144)
Plantation price fair value adjustment
(7)
(3)
(4)
(14)
Net restructuring provisions
(1)
(63)
(1)
(66)
profit on disposal of property, plant
and equipment
4
–
9
–
Asset impairments
–
(69)
–
(69)
Black Economic Empowerment charge
(1)
(1)
(2)
(2)
Insurance recoveries
–
11
–
11
Fire, food, storm and related events
–
(3)
–
(4)
Segment operating profit (loss)
120
(1)
227
120
Net nance costs
(51)
(68)
(105)
(139)
Profit (loss) before taxation
69
(69)
122
(19)
Taxation
(11)
(5)
(19)
(18)
Profit (loss) for the period
58
(74)
103
(37)
Reconciliation of segment assets
to
total assets
Segment assets
4,650
5,238
4,650
5,238
Deferred taxation
45
57
45
57
Cash and cash equivalents
453
567
453
567
Other current liabilities
984
1,166
984
1,166
Taxation payable
15
35
15
35
Total assets
6,147
7,063
6,147
7,063
(1) In compliance with the U.S. Securities Exchange Commission (“SEC”) rules relating to “Conditions for Use of Non-GAAP
Financial Measures”, we have reconciled both operating profit excluding special items and EBITDA excluding special items to
profit (loss) for the period, rather than operating profit.
We use operating profit excluding special items and EBITDA excluding special items as internal measures of performance to
benchmark and compare performance, both between our own operations and as against other companies. Operating profit
excluding special items and EBITDA excluding special items are used as measures by the group, together with measures
of performance under IFRS, to compare the relative performance of operations in planning, budgeting and reviewing the
performances of various businesses. We believe operating profit excluding special items and EBITDA excluding special items
are useful measures of nancial performance in addition to net profit, operating profit and other profitability measures under
IFRS because it facilitates operating performance comparisons from period to period and company to company. For these
reasons, we believe operating profit excluding special items, EBITDA excluding special items and other similar measures are
regularly used by the investment community as a means of comparison of companies in our industry.
Different companies and analysts may calculate operating profit excluding special items and EBITDA excluding special items
differently, so making comparisons among companies on this basis should be done very carefully. Operating profit excluding
special items and EBITDA excluding special items are not measures of performance under IFRS and should not be considered
in isolation or construed as a substitute for operating profit or net profit as an indicator of the company’s operations in
accordance with IFRS.
Financial Measures”, we have reconciled both operating profit excluding special items and EBITDA excluding special items to
profit (loss) for the period, rather than operating profit.
We use operating profit excluding special items and EBITDA excluding special items as internal measures of performance to
benchmark and compare performance, both between our own operations and as against other companies. Operating profit
excluding special items and EBITDA excluding special items are used as measures by the group, together with measures
of performance under IFRS, to compare the relative performance of operations in planning, budgeting and reviewing the
performances of various businesses. We believe operating profit excluding special items and EBITDA excluding special items
are useful measures of nancial performance in addition to net profit, operating profit and other profitability measures under
IFRS because it facilitates operating performance comparisons from period to period and company to company. For these
reasons, we believe operating profit excluding special items, EBITDA excluding special items and other similar measures are
regularly used by the investment community as a means of comparison of companies in our industry.
Different companies and analysts may calculate operating profit excluding special items and EBITDA excluding special items
differently, so making comparisons among companies on this basis should be done very carefully. Operating profit excluding
special items and EBITDA excluding special items are not measures of performance under IFRS and should not be considered
in isolation or construed as a substitute for operating profit or net profit as an indicator of the company’s operations in
accordance with IFRS.
16
Supplemental information
Exchange rates
Mar
Dec
Sept Jun
Mar
2012
2011
2011
2011
2011
E
xchange rates:
Period end rate: US$1 = ZAR
7.6725
8.0862
8.0963
6.7300
6.6978
Average rate for the Quarter: US$1 = ZAR
7.7511
8.0915
7.1501
6.7890
6.9963
Average rate for the YTD: US$1 = ZAR
7.9237
8.0915
6.9578
6.8941
6.9476
Period end rate: €1 = US$
1.3344
1.2948
1.3386
1.4525
1.4231
Average rate for the Quarter: €1 = US$
1.3116
1.3482
1.4126
1.4398
1.3702
Average rate for the YTD: €1 = US$
1.3299
1.3482
1.3947
1.3890
1.3645
17
sappi
2nd quarter results
Sappi ordinary shares (JSE: SAP)
US Dollar share price conversion
ZAR
30
Jun
08
Jun
08
31
Mar
08
Mar
08
30
Sep
08
Sep
08
31
Dec
08
Dec
08
31
Mar
09
Mar
09
30
Sep
09
Sep
09
30
Jun
09
Jun
09
30
Jun
10
Jun
10
31
Dec
09
Dec
09
31
Mar
10
Mar
10
30
Sep
10
Sep
10
31
Mar
11
Mar
11
31
Dec
10
Dec
10
30
Jun
11
Jun
11
30
Sep
11
Sep
11
31
Dec
11
Dec
11
17
Apr
12
Apr
12
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
USD
30
Jun
08
Jun
08
31
Mar
08
Mar
08
30
Sep
08
Sep
08
31
Dec
08
Dec
08
31
Mar
09
Mar
09
30
Sep
09
Sep
09
30
Jun
09
Jun
09
30
Jun
10
Jun
10
31
Dec
09
Dec
09
31
Mar
10
Mar
10
30
Sep
10
Sep
10
31
Mar
11
Mar
11
31
Dec
10
Dec
10
30
Jun
11
Jun
11
30
Sep
11
Sep
11
31
Dec
11
Dec
11
17
Apr
12
Apr
12
0
2
4
6
8
10
18
Notes:
19
sappi
2nd quarter results
Sappi has a primary listing on the JSE Limited and a secondary listing on
the New York Stock Exchange
© Sappi Corporate Communications 2012
www.sappi.com
SIGNATURES
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.
duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly
authorized.
Date:
SAPPI LIMITED,
Name: M. R. Thompson
Title: Chief Financial Officer
Title: Chief Financial Officer
M. R. Thompson
By:
/s/
May 10, 2012