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 August, 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.
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 third quarter results ended June 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 4arbor ” 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:
Sappi Limited’s report for the conformed third quarter results ended June 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 4arbor ” 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 such cyclicality, such as
levels of demand, production capacity, production, input costs including rawmaterial, energy and employee costs,
and pricing);
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);
outages);
·
changes in environmental, tax and other laws and regulations;
·
adverse changes in the markets for the Group’s products;
·
the emergence of new technologies and changes in consumer trends including increased preferences for digital media;
·
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;
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;
effect of governmental efforts to address present or future economic or social problems;
·
the impact of restructurings, investments, acquisitions, dispositions and other strategic initiatives (including related
financing), any delays, unexpected costs or other problems experienced in connection with dispositions or with
integrating acquisitions or implementing restructuring or strategic initiatives, and achieving expected savings and
synergies; and
integrating acquisitions or implementing restructuring or strategic initiatives, 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.
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.
3rd
Quarter results for
the period ended
June 2012
the period ended
June 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
3rd quarter results
* for the period ended June 2012
7%
7%
7%
7%
7%
15%
Sales by product group*
Specialities
Commodity paper
Commodity paper
Coated fine paper
Uncoated fine paper
Pulp
Other
1%
63%
63%
15%
15%
7%
7%
7%
1%
7%
25%
Sales by source*
Europe
Southern Africa
North America
North America
22%
53%
25%
22%
22%
53%
19%
23%
Sales by destination*
Southern Africa
Europe
North America
Asia and other
Asia and other
13%
45%
45%
23%
19%
13%
19%
13%
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.
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.
Photograph taken by Dr Valerie Grzekowiak
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.
Photograph taken by Dr Valerie Grzekowiak
1
sappi
3rd quarter results
Financial summary for the quarter
·
Operating profit US$34 million (Q3 2011 US$54 million)
·
Operating profit excluding special items US$60 million
(Q3 2011 US$60 million)
(Q3 2011 US$60 million)
·
Market conditions deteriorated during the quarter
·
Extended maturities and lower finance costs from refinancing of 2014
bonds going forward
bonds going forward
·
Once-off charges of US$89 million related to refinancing – negative EPS
·
Impact of planned annual maintenance shuts at major pulp mills
·
Chemical cellulose expansions on track
Quarter ended
Nine months ended
Jun 2012
Jun 2011
Mar 2012
Jun 2012
Jun 2011
Key figures: (US$ million)
Sales
1,544
1,802
1,633
4,762
5,499
Operating profit
34
54
120
261
174
Special items – losses
(1)
26
6
5
24
150
Operating profit excluding special
items
(2)
60
60
125
285
324
Loss (profit) for the period
(106)
(68)
58
(3)
(105)
EBITDA excluding special items
(2)
150
164
217
561
638
Basic (loss) earnings per share
(US cents)
(20)
(13)
11
(1)
(20)
Key ratios: (%)
Operating profit to sales
2.2
3.0
7.4
5.5
3.2
Operating profit excluding special
items to sales
3.9
3.3
7.7
6.0
5.9
EBITDA excluding special items to sales
9.7
9.1
13.3
11.8
11.6
Net asset value per share (US cents)
299
362
315
299
362
(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 EBITDA excluding special items and operating profit excluding special
items to segment operating profit, and loss for the period.
2
Commentary on the quarter
Operating profit for the quarter was US$34 million (Q3 2011 US$54 million).
Operating profit excluding special items for the quarter was in line with guidance and similar to that
achieved in the corresponding quarter in the prior year. Performance was impacted, as anticipated,
by planned annual maintenance shuts as well as seasonal factors when compared to the prior
quarter. Market conditions however deteriorated more than expected in the quarter as a result of
the uncertainty in Europe and a general slowdown in all major markets.
achieved in the corresponding quarter in the prior year. Performance was impacted, as anticipated,
by planned annual maintenance shuts as well as seasonal factors when compared to the prior
quarter. Market conditions however deteriorated more than expected in the quarter as a result of
the uncertainty in Europe and a general slowdown in all major markets.
Sales for the quarter was US$1.5 billion, a decrease of 14% in US Dollar terms compared to the
equivalent quarter a year ago primarily due to a stronger US Dollar which impacted the translation
of the European and South African sales, and 7% lower sales volumes in Europe.
equivalent quarter a year ago primarily due to a stronger US Dollar which impacted the translation
of the European and South African sales, and 7% lower sales volumes in Europe.
The Southern African chemical cellulose business continued to perform strongly, with higher
US Dollar pulp prices compared to the prior quarter being aided by a weaker Rand. The scheduled
annual maintenance shut at Saiccor was postponed until early in the fourth quarter to enable the
business to benefit from robust demand, continued strong manufacturing performance and in light
of the declining trend in pulp prices.
US Dollar pulp prices compared to the prior quarter being aided by a weaker Rand. The scheduled
annual maintenance shut at Saiccor was postponed until early in the fourth quarter to enable the
business to benefit from robust demand, continued strong manufacturing performance and in light
of the declining trend in pulp prices.
During the quarter we announced a tender offer and redemption for up to US$700 million of the
2014 bonds. The repurchase of the 2014 bonds will be completed in early August and will result
in annual cash interest savings of approximately US$30 million. The bonds were successfully
refinanced with a US$400 million bond due 2017 at 7.750% and a US$300 million bond due 2019
at 8.375%. The full US$89 million accounting cost of the refinancing of the 2014 bonds was
booked in the quarter, US$44 million of this charge is non-cash and relates to the accelerated
write-off of the discount and costs incurred at the issue of these bonds.
2014 bonds. The repurchase of the 2014 bonds will be completed in early August and will result
in annual cash interest savings of approximately US$30 million. The bonds were successfully
refinanced with a US$400 million bond due 2017 at 7.750% and a US$300 million bond due 2019
at 8.375%. The full US$89 million accounting cost of the refinancing of the 2014 bonds was
booked in the quarter, US$44 million of this charge is non-cash and relates to the accelerated
write-off of the discount and costs incurred at the issue of these bonds.
The repayment of the 2014 bonds resulted in the unwinding of currency swaps linked to the
bonds. The mark-to-market of the swaps is in Sappi’s favour and a positive cash settlement of
approximately US$36 million is expected in our fourth quarter.
bonds. The mark-to-market of the swaps is in Sappi’s favour and a positive cash settlement of
approximately US$36 million is expected in our fourth quarter.
Special items for the quarter was a charge of US$26 million, comprised mainly of a plantation price
fair value adjustment and charges related to flooding at Cloquet Mill.
fair value adjustment and charges related to flooding at Cloquet Mill.
3
sappi
3rd quarter results
Cash flow and debt
Cash retained from operating activities was US$52 million for the quarter, an improvement from
the same quarter last year.
the same quarter last year.
Net capital expenditure for the quarter was US$108 million, compared to US$60 million in the prior
quarter and reflects the increased capital expenditure attributable to the Ngodwana and Cloquet
chemical cellulose conversions. Capital expenditure for the full year is expected to be below
US$425 million.
quarter and reflects the increased capital expenditure attributable to the Ngodwana and Cloquet
chemical cellulose conversions. Capital expenditure for the full year is expected to be below
US$425 million.
Interest-bearing borrowings (including bank overdrafts) less cash and cash equivalents (‘net debt’)
increased during the quarter to US$2,213 million as a result of the cash utilised and the once-off
charges related to the early redemption of the 2014 bonds, partly offset by currency movements.
increased during the quarter to US$2,213 million as a result of the cash utilised and the once-off
charges related to the early redemption of the 2014 bonds, partly offset by currency movements.
Operating Review – Quarter ended June 2012 compared with quarter
ended June 2011
ended June 2011
Sappi Fine Paper
Quarter
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Mar 2012
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Dec 2011
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Sept 2011
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Sales
1,155
1,232
1,198
1,337
1,350
Operating profit
17
77
44
22
28
Operating profit to sales (%)
1.5
6.3
3.7
1.6
2.1
Special items – losses (gains)
11
(4)
(5)
17
2
Operating profit excluding
special items
special items
28
73
39
39
30
Operating profit excluding
special items to sales (%)
special items to sales (%)
2.4
5.9
3.3
2.9
2.2
Sales volumes for the quarter were 5% lower than in the previous quarter and the equivalent quarter
in the prior year. The improvement in margins compared to the equivalent quarter in the prior year
reflects the benefits of the various variable and fixed cost reductions that have been implemented in
the past year across all regions.
in the prior year. The improvement in margins compared to the equivalent quarter in the prior year
reflects the benefits of the various variable and fixed cost reductions that have been implemented in
the past year across all regions.
4
Europe
Quarter
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Mar 2012
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Dec 2011
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Sept 2011
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Sales
795
883
846
942
979
Operating profit (loss)
4
53
34
(18)
(4)
Operating profit (loss) to
sales (%)
sales (%)
0.5
6.0
4.0
(1.9)
(0.4)
Special items – losses (gains)
6
(4)
(5)
23
2
Operating profit (loss)
excluding special items
excluding special items
10
49
29
5
(2)
Operating profit (loss)
excluding special items to
sales (%)
excluding special items to
sales (%)
1.3
5.5
3.4
0.5
(0.2)
Volumes sold during the quarter were lower as a result of the seasonally slower demand and the
planned maintenance shuts at our pulp mills. Nevertheless, demand was weaker than expected
and 7% below that of the equivalent quarter last year.
planned maintenance shuts at our pulp mills. Nevertheless, demand was weaker than expected
and 7% below that of the equivalent quarter last year.
Average prices realised were marginally higher than the previous quarter, helped by a weaker Euro
exchange rate and the impact on export sales prices. However, variable costs per ton were also
higher as the prices of most major inputs increased. Despite this, expenses continue to be tightly
managed and were 5% lower than the equivalent quarter last year. As a result, operating margins
have all improved.
exchange rate and the impact on export sales prices. However, variable costs per ton were also
higher as the prices of most major inputs increased. Despite this, expenses continue to be tightly
managed and were 5% lower than the equivalent quarter last year. As a result, operating margins
have all improved.
Sappi Fine Paper Europe incurred fire damage at Nijmegen Mill in July 2012, the financial impact
of which is estimated to be US$7 million to the group.
of which is estimated to be US$7 million to the group.
5
sappi
3rd quarter results
North America
Quarter
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Mar 2012
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Dec 2011
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Sept 2011
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Sales
360
349
352
395
371
Operating profit
13
24
10
40
32
Operating profit to sales (%)
3.6
6.9
2.8
10.1
8.6
Special items – losses (gains)
5
–
–
(6)
–
Operating profit excluding
special items
special items
18
24
10
34
32
Operating profit excluding
special items to sales (%)
special items to sales (%)
5.0
6.9
2.8
8.6
8.6
Despite a weaker market environment, sales volumes in the North American business were 2%
and 3% higher than in the equivalent quarter last year and the prior quarter respectively, as higher
coated paper sales volumes more than offset lower pulp and speciality paper sales volumes.
Paper prices were lower, compared both to the prior quarter and the equivalent quarter last year,
whilst pulp prices were lower than in the equivalent quarter last year, but higher than in the prior
quarter.
and 3% higher than in the equivalent quarter last year and the prior quarter respectively, as higher
coated paper sales volumes more than offset lower pulp and speciality paper sales volumes.
Paper prices were lower, compared both to the prior quarter and the equivalent quarter last year,
whilst pulp prices were lower than in the equivalent quarter last year, but higher than in the prior
quarter.
A focus on cost containment and productivity improvements ensured variable costs per ton were
lower than in the equivalent quarter last year and the prior quarter. During the quarter, Cloquet Mill
completed a scheduled cold outage which negatively impacted the results compared to the prior
quarter.
lower than in the equivalent quarter last year and the prior quarter. During the quarter, Cloquet Mill
completed a scheduled cold outage which negatively impacted the results compared to the prior
quarter.
Severe flooding in Minnesota led to a temporary shutdown of Cloquet Mill in late June, impacting
both paper and pulp production for approximately 7 days. The impact on the group operating
profit was approximately US$5 million for the quarter, recorded in special items.
both paper and pulp production for approximately 7 days. The impact on the group operating
profit was approximately US$5 million for the quarter, recorded in special items.
6
Sappi Southern Africa
Quarter
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Mar 2012
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Dec 2011
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Sept 2011
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Sales
389
401
387
450
452
Operating profit (loss)
16
44
63
(64)
22
Operating profit (loss) to
sales (%)
sales (%)
4.1
11.0
16.3
(14.2)
4.9
Special items – losses (gains)
15
9
(2)
105
4
Operating profit excluding
special items
special items
31
53
61
41
26
Operating profit excluding
special items to sales (%)
special items to sales (%)
8.0
13.2
15.8
9.1
5.8
The Southern African chemical cellulose business had an excellent production and sales quarter,
with higher US Dollar pulp prices and a weaker Rand compared to the prior quarter.
with higher US Dollar pulp prices and a weaker Rand compared to the prior quarter.
During the quarter, Ngodwana Mill underwent an extended planned annual maintenance shut.
This shut negatively impacted the results compared to the prior quarter. The decision was made
to postpone the planned annual maintenance shut at Saiccor Mill to July due to the strong sales
momentum, operating performance and declining US Dollar pulp prices.
This shut negatively impacted the results compared to the prior quarter. The decision was made
to postpone the planned annual maintenance shut at Saiccor Mill to July due to the strong sales
momentum, operating performance and declining US Dollar pulp prices.
The Southern African paper business experienced a decline in sales volumes and prices compared
to the prior quarter. In particular, the containerboard and paper pulp sales were challenging for
both volume and price, whilst the office paper and newsprint businesses were more robust.
to the prior quarter. In particular, the containerboard and paper pulp sales were challenging for
both volume and price, whilst the office paper and newsprint businesses were more robust.
Variable costs per ton remain in line with the equivalent quarter last year, whilst benefits from the
fixed cost savings as a result of the Southern African restructuring started to take effect during the
quarter.
fixed cost savings as a result of the Southern African restructuring started to take effect during the
quarter.
7
sappi
3rd quarter results
Outlook
Market conditions are expected to remain generally tough, with greater uncertainty and lack of
visibility. Trading conditions are expected to be weaker than a year ago, with lower volumes for
most of our products and pricing, particularly for pulp, to remain under pressure. We believe input
prices should remain generally flat and that fixed costs are well under control.
visibility. Trading conditions are expected to be weaker than a year ago, with lower volumes for
most of our products and pricing, particularly for pulp, to remain under pressure. We believe input
prices should remain generally flat and that fixed costs are well under control.
US Dollar exchange rate strength should be favourable for our European and South African
businesses with increased margins on export sales in particular.
businesses with increased margins on export sales in particular.
Saiccor Mill’s production remains sold out and both the Ngodwana and Cloquet mills conversion
projects are progressing well and expected to begin operations in the third fiscal quarter of 2013.
Good progress continues to be made with volume commitments for the additional chemical
cellulose capacity.
projects are progressing well and expected to begin operations in the third fiscal quarter of 2013.
Good progress continues to be made with volume commitments for the additional chemical
cellulose capacity.
The benefits from the refinancing of the 2014 bonds completed in the past quarter are expected
to commence in the fourth fiscal quarter, and the annual interest charge is expected to decrease
by approximately US$45 million as a result, with the cash interest charge reducing by approximately
US$30 million per annum. The refinancing has left us with a much improved maturity profile, with
no substantial debt repayments until 2017.
to commence in the fourth fiscal quarter, and the annual interest charge is expected to decrease
by approximately US$45 million as a result, with the cash interest charge reducing by approximately
US$30 million per annum. The refinancing has left us with a much improved maturity profile, with
no substantial debt repayments until 2017.
For the fourth fiscal quarter, operating profit is expected to be higher than in the equivalent quarter
in 2011. Operating profit excluding special items for the year is expected to be below that achieved
in 2011. We expect positive earnings per share for the full year.
in 2011. Operating profit excluding special items for the year is expected to be below that achieved
in 2011. We expect positive earnings per share for the full year.
Cash generated from operations for the quarter is expected to be strong. In addition, we are
making good progress in terms of our strategy to dispose of non-essential assets in order to
improve cash generation. Following the end of the quarter, the Biberist mill and associated land
was sold for US$57 million and the Adamas mill land and buildings were sold for US$6 million. We
expect our net debt to reduce through the quarter to around US$2 billion.
making good progress in terms of our strategy to dispose of non-essential assets in order to
improve cash generation. Following the end of the quarter, the Biberist mill and associated land
was sold for US$57 million and the Adamas mill land and buildings were sold for US$6 million. We
expect our net debt to reduce through the quarter to around US$2 billion.
Notwithstanding the current tough trading conditions, we believe that the strategic actions that we
are and have been taking are positioning the group well for both improved margins from our paper
divisions and for expansion in higher margin growth businesses such as chemical cellulose.
We are confident that the actions taken, including the refinancing completed in the last quarter, the
disposal of non-essential assets described above as well as the reduction in our cost base, will
allow us to complete the current growth projects whilst reducing our debt and strengthening our
financial position.
are and have been taking are positioning the group well for both improved margins from our paper
divisions and for expansion in higher margin growth businesses such as chemical cellulose.
We are confident that the actions taken, including the refinancing completed in the last quarter, the
disposal of non-essential assets described above as well as the reduction in our cost base, will
allow us to complete the current growth projects whilst reducing our debt and strengthening our
financial position.
Directorate
Mr Steve Binnie joined Sappi as Chief Financial Officer designate on 09 July 2012, and will be
appointed Chief Financial Officer and an Executive Director of the company on 01 September 2012,
following Mr Mark Thompson’s retirement as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Director at the
end of August 2012.
appointed Chief Financial Officer and an Executive Director of the company on 01 September 2012,
following Mr Mark Thompson’s retirement as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Director at the
end of August 2012.
Professor Meyer Feldberg, the lead independent director, will retire from the board at the end of
December 2012, having reached the board’s retirement age of 70 years. Sir Nigel Rudd will
succeed Professor Feldberg as lead independent director at that time.
December 2012, having reached the board’s retirement age of 70 years. Sir Nigel Rudd will
succeed Professor Feldberg as lead independent director at that time.
On behalf of the board
R J Boëttger
M R Thompson
Director
Director
03 August 2012
8
Condensed group income statement
Note
Quarter
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Nine
months
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Nine
months
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Sales
1,544
1,802
4,762
5,499
Cost of sales
1,404
1,639
4,189
4,872
Gross profit
140
163
573
627
Selling, general and
administrative expenses
administrative expenses
103
107
315
328
Other operating expenses
(income)
(income)
3
4
(3)
131
Share of profit from associates
and joint ventures
and joint ventures
–
(2)
–
(6)
Operating profit
2
34
54
261
174
Net finance costs
141
112
246
251
Net interest
142
121
253
276
Finance cost capitalised
(2)
–
(4)
–
Net foreign exchange loss
(gain)
(gain)
1
(3)
(1)
(10)
Net fair value gain on
financial instruments
financial instruments
–
(6)
(2)
(15)
(Loss) profit before taxation
(107)
(58)
15
(77)
Taxation
(1)
10
18
28
Current
7
8
12
12
Deferred
(8)
2
6
16
Loss for the period
(106)
(68)
(3)
(105)
Basic loss per share (US cents)
(20)
(13)
(1)
(20)
Weighted average number of
shares in issue (millions)
shares in issue (millions)
520.8
519.9
520.7
519.7
Diluted basic loss per share
(US cents)
(US cents)
(20)
(13)
(1)
(20)
Weighted average number of
shares on fully diluted basis
(millions)
shares on fully diluted basis
(millions)
520.8
519.9
520.7
519.7
Condensed group statement of comprehensive income
Quarter
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Nine
months
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Nine
months
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Loss for the period
(106)
(68)
(3)
(105)
Other comprehensive income
(loss), net of tax
(loss), net of tax
18
(3)
71
80
Exchange differences on
translation of foreign operations
translation of foreign operations
(70)
(6)
(10)
63
Movements in hedging reserves
(14)
3
(23)
18
Deferred tax effect of above items
1
–
3
(1)
Recognition of previously
unrecognised deferred tax asset
unrecognised deferred tax asset
(1)
101
–
101
–
Total comprehensive (loss) income
for the period
for the period
(88)
(71)
68
(25)
(1)
Relates to amounts recognised within other comprehensive income in previous fiscal years.
9
sappi
3rd quarter results
Condensed group balance sheet
Jun 2012
US$ million
Sept 2011
US$ million
ASSETS
Non-current assets
4,035
4,085
Property, plant and equipment
3,098
3,235
Plantations
560
580
Deferred taxation
144
45
Other non-current assets
233
225
Current assets
1,978
2,223
Inventories
773
750
Trade and other receivables
782
834
Cash and cash equivalents
403
639
Assets held for sale
20
–
Total assets
6,013
6,308
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
Shareholders’ equity
Ordinary shareholders’ interest
1,557
1,478
Non-current liabilities
3,080
3,178
Interest-bearing borrowings
2,209
2,289
Deferred taxation
334
336
Other non-current liabilities
537
553
Current liabilities
1,376
1,652
Interest-bearing borrowings
406
449
Bank overdraft
1
1
Other current liabilities
950
1,182
Taxation payable
19
20
Total equity and liabilities
6,013
6,308
Number of shares in issue at balance sheet date (millions)
520.8
520.5
10
Condensed group statement of cash flows
Quarter
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Nine
months
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Nine
months
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Loss for the period
(106)
(68)
(3)
(105)
Adjustment for:
Depreciation, fellings and amortisation
108
125
333
378
Taxation
(1)
10
18
28
Net finance costs
141
112
246
251
Defined post-employment benefits
(16)
(17)
(39)
(50)
Plantation fair value adjustments
(1)
(21)
(40)
(44)
Asset (impairment reversals)
impairments
impairments
(3)
–
(3)
69
Net restructuring provisions
–
2
1
68
Other non-cash items
15
5
33
20
Cash generated from operations
137
148
546
615
Movement in working capital
(27)
(46)
(217)
(364)
Net finance costs paid
(56)
(40)
(157)
(194)
Taxation paid
(2)
(17)
(12)
(31)
Cash retained from operating
activities
activities
52
45
160
26
Cash utilised in investing activities
(108)
(65)
(236)
(142)
Net cash utilised from operating and
investing activities
investing activities
(56)
(20)
(76)
(116)
Cash effects of financing activities
32
(190)
(142)
(364)
Net movement in cash and cash
equivalents
equivalents
(24)
(210)
(218)
(480)
Condensed group statement of changes in equity
Nine
months
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Nine
months
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Balance – beginning of period
1,478
1,896
Total comprehensive income (loss) for the period
68
(25)
Transfers from the share purchase trust
2
6
Transfers of vested share options
(2)
(7)
Share-based payment reserve
11
14
Balance – end of period
1,557
1,884
11
sappi
3rd quarter results
Notes to the condensed group results
1.
Basis of preparation
The condensed consolidated interim financial results for the nine months ended June 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 9 months ended June 2012 consists of 39 weeks compared to the prior year 9 months which
consisted of 40 weeks.
consisted of 40 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
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Nine
months
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Nine
months
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
2.
Operating profit
Included in operating profit are the
following non-cash items:
following non-cash items:
Depreciation and amortisation
90
104
276
314
Fair value adjustment on plantations
(included in cost of sales)
(included in cost of sales)
Changes in volume
Fellings
18
21
57
64
Growth
(21)
(23)
(64)
(60)
(3)
(2)
(7)
4
Plantation price fair value
adjustment
adjustment
20
2
24
16
17
–
17
20
Included in other operating expenses
(income) are the following:
(income) are the following:
Asset (impairment reversals)
impairments
impairments
(3)
–
(3)
69
Loss (profit) on disposal of
property, plant and
equipment
property, plant and
equipment
2
–
(7)
–
Net restructuring provisions
–
2
1
68
Black Economic
Empowerment charge
Empowerment charge
1
1
3
3
12
Quarter
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Nine
months
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Nine
months
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
3.
Headline loss per share
Headline loss per share (US cents)
(20)
(13)
(2)
(8)
Weighted average number of shares
in issue (millions)
in issue (millions)
520.8
519.9
520.7
519.7
Diluted headline loss per share
(US cents)
(US cents)
(20)
(13)
(2)
(8)
Weighted average number of shares
on fully diluted basis (millions)
on fully diluted basis (millions)
520.8
519.9
520.7
519.7
Calculation of headline loss
Loss for the period
(106)
(68)
(3)
(105)
Asset (impairment reversals)
impairments
impairments
(3)
–
(3)
69
Loss (profit) on disposal of property,
plant and equipment
plant and equipment
2
–
(7)
–
Tax effect of above items
1
2
1
(3)
Headline loss
(106)
(66)
(12)
(39)
4.
Capital expenditure
Property, plant and equipment
107
69
243
161
Jun 2012
US$ million
Sept 2011
US$ million
5.
Capital
commitments
Contracted
254
61
Approved but not contracted
263
416
517
477
6.
Contingent
liabilities
Guarantees and suretyships
31
33
Other contingent liabilities
8
15
39
48
7.
Material
balance
sheet
movements
Interest-bearing borrowings
In October 2011, the group repaid US$130 million (ZAR1,000 million) of the ZAR 10.64% fixed rate
public bonds in Southern Africa with US$130 million from cash resources.
In October 2011, the group repaid US$130 million (ZAR1,000 million) of the ZAR 10.64% fixed rate
public bonds in Southern Africa with US$130 million from cash resources.
In April 2012, the group issued a three-year ZAR750 million (US$98 million) floating rate bond
(‘SSA02’) at a 144 basis points spread over the 6-month Johannesburg Inter-bank Agreed Rate. The
floating rate of the new bond was swapped into a fixed rate of 7.78%. The proceeds of the bonds
were used partly to refinance the ZAR500 million (US$65 million) bond (‘SMF3’) that matured on
29 June 2012.
(‘SSA02’) at a 144 basis points spread over the 6-month Johannesburg Inter-bank Agreed Rate. The
floating rate of the new bond was swapped into a fixed rate of 7.78%. The proceeds of the bonds
were used partly to refinance the ZAR500 million (US$65 million) bond (‘SMF3’) that matured on
29 June 2012.
13
sappi
3rd quarter results
In June 2012, the group accelerated the premium and other costs associated with its senior secured
notes due 2014 in line with its intention to early redeem these notes. This resulted in an increase
in net debt at reporting date and a corresponding charge of US$89 million which is included in net
finance costs.
notes due 2014 in line with its intention to early redeem these notes. This resulted in an increase
in net debt at reporting date and a corresponding charge of US$89 million which is included in net
finance costs.
Deferred tax assets
During the quarter, the group reassessed the recoverability of its deferred tax assets in Sappi
Fine Paper North America. A deferred tax asset of US$101 million was recognised largely in other
comprehensive income.
During the quarter, the group reassessed the recoverability of its deferred tax assets in Sappi
Fine Paper North America. A deferred tax asset of US$101 million was recognised largely in other
comprehensive income.
Other current liabilities
Other current liabilities were reduced by payments of liabilities relating to restructuring costs and
accruals.
Other current liabilities were reduced by payments of liabilities relating to restructuring costs and
accruals.
8.
Assets held for sale
As at the end of the quarter, the following assets were classified as assets held for sale:
–
The shares of Sappi Schweiz AG in Sappi Fine Paper Europe. The shares were disposed of in
July 2012.
July 2012.
–
Property, plant and equipment in Sappi Southern Africa with a book value of ZAR73 million
(US$9 million).
(US$9 million).
Refer to note 9 for more detail on assets sold subsequent to quarter-end.
9.
Post balance sheet events
Sappi Fine Paper Europe concluded an agreement to sell the shares of Sappi Schweiz AG. The
assets in the company which are disclosed as held for sale, comprised mostly of the Biberist Mill
land and buildings with a book value of €9 million (US$11 million). The shares were sold for
€43 million (US$57 million) resulting in a profit on disposal of US$51 million which includes the
realisation of a foreign currency translation reserve that was previously disclosed in other
comprehensive income. Biberist Mill was closed in fiscal 2011.
assets in the company which are disclosed as held for sale, comprised mostly of the Biberist Mill
land and buildings with a book value of €9 million (US$11 million). The shares were sold for
€43 million (US$57 million) resulting in a profit on disposal of US$51 million which includes the
realisation of a foreign currency translation reserve that was previously disclosed in other
comprehensive income. Biberist Mill was closed in fiscal 2011.
Sappi Southern Africa disposed of land and buildings at Adamas Mill that were held for sale at
quarter-end. These assets with a book value of ZAR22 million (US$3 million) were sold for
ZAR45 million (US$6 million) resulting in a profit on disposal of US$3 million. Adamas Mill was closed
in fiscal 2012.
quarter-end. These assets with a book value of ZAR22 million (US$3 million) were sold for
ZAR45 million (US$6 million) resulting in a profit on disposal of US$3 million. Adamas Mill was closed
in fiscal 2012.
Sappi Fine Paper Europe incurred fire damage at its Nijmegen Mill. The damage was limited to the
electric cables infrastructure which resulted in a temporary shut of the paper machine. The financial
impact of the fire is estimated to be €5 million (US$7 million) to the group.
electric cables infrastructure which resulted in a temporary shut of the paper machine. The financial
impact of the fire is estimated to be €5 million (US$7 million) to the group.
In July 2012, the group received the proceeds of US$700 million relating to a new bond offering of
senior secured notes. The new notes were placed in June 2012 and comprise US$400 million notes
due 2017 with a coupon of 7.750% per annum and US$300 million notes due 2019 with a coupon
of 8.375% per annum. The proceeds of the new notes together with cash on hand, via tender offer
and call redemption, are being used to refinance US$700 million of the principal amount of the
existing senior secured notes due 2014. This refinancing transaction will result in reduced annual
cash interest costs of approximately US$30 million. Refer to note 7 for the once-off costs incurred
in the quarter as a result of the refinancing.
senior secured notes. The new notes were placed in June 2012 and comprise US$400 million notes
due 2017 with a coupon of 7.750% per annum and US$300 million notes due 2019 with a coupon
of 8.375% per annum. The proceeds of the new notes together with cash on hand, via tender offer
and call redemption, are being used to refinance US$700 million of the principal amount of the
existing senior secured notes due 2014. This refinancing transaction will result in reduced annual
cash interest costs of approximately US$30 million. Refer to note 7 for the once-off costs incurred
in the quarter as a result of the refinancing.
14
10.
Segment information
Quarter
ended
Jun 2012
Metric tons
(000’s)
Quarter
ended
Jun 2011
Metric tons
(000’s)
Nine months
ended
Jun 2012
Metric tons
(000’s)
Nine months
ended
Jun 2011
Metric tons
(000’s)
Sales volume
Fine Paper –
North America
351
344
1,031
1,057
Europe
843
909
2,611
2,903
Total
1,194
1,253
3,642
3,960
Southern Africa –
Pulp and paper
435
406
1,253
1,272
Forestry
294
252
830
688
Total
1,923
1,911
5,725
5,920
Quarter
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Nine months
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Nine months
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Sales
Fine Paper –
North America
360
371
1,061
1,125
Europe
795
979
2,524
3,023
Total
1,155
1,350
3,585
4,148
Southern Africa –
Pulp and paper
367
430
1,114
1,291
Forestry
22
22
63
60
Total
1,544
1,802
4,762
5,499
Operating profit (loss) excluding
special items
special items
Fine Paper –
North America
18
32
52
95
Europe
10
(2)
88
63
Total
28
30
140
158
Southern Africa
31
26
145
158
Unallocated and eliminations
(1)
1
4
–
8
Total
60
60
285
324
Special items – losses (gains)
Fine Paper –
North America
5
–
5
(1)
Europe
6
2
(3)
116
Total
11
2
2
115
Southern Africa
15
4
22
31
Unallocated and eliminations
(1)
–
–
–
4
Total
26
6
24
150
(1) Includes the group’s treasury operations, the self-insurance captive and the investment in the Jiangxi Chenming
joint venture.
15
sappi
3rd quarter results
Quarter
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Nine
months
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Nine
months
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Segment operating profit (loss)
Fine Paper –
North America
13
32
47
96
Europe
4
(4)
91
(53)
Total
17
28
138
43
Southern Africa
16
22
123
127
Unallocated and eliminations
(1)
1
4
–
4
Total
34
54
261
174
EBITDA excluding special items
Fine Paper –
North America
38
50
110
150
Europe
60
57
237
238
Total
98
107
347
388
Southern Africa
52
53
214
242
Unallocated and eliminations
(1)
–
4
–
8
Total
150
164
561
638
Segment assets
Fine Paper –
North America
926
916
926
916
Europe
1,852
2,216
1,852
2,216
Total
2,778
3,132
2,778
3,132
Southern Africa
1,653
2,072
1,653
2,072
Unallocated and eliminations
(1)
66
72
66
72
Total
4,497
5,276
4,497
5,276
(1)
Includes the group's treasury operations, the self-insurance captive and the
investment in the Jiangxi Chenming
joint venture.
16
Reconciliation of EBITDA excluding special items and operating profit excluding special items
to segment operating profit and loss for the period
to segment operating profit and loss for the period
(1)
Special items cover those items which management believe are material by nature or amount to the
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, financial 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, financial 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
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Quarter
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
Nine
months
ended
Jun 2012
US$ million
Nine
months
ended
Jun 2011
US$ million
EBITDA excluding special
items
items
150
164
561
638
Depreciation and amortisation
(90)
(104)
(276)
(314)
Operating profit excluding
special items
special items
60
60
285
324
Special items – (losses) gains
(26)
(6)
(24)
(150)
Plantation price fair value
adjustment
adjustment
(20)
(2)
(24)
(16)
Net restructuring provisions
–
(2)
(1)
(68)
(Loss) profit on disposal of
property, plant and
equipment
property, plant and
equipment
(2)
–
7
–
Asset impairment reversals
(impairments)
(impairments)
3
–
3
(69)
Black Economic
Empowerment charge
Empowerment charge
(1)
(1)
(3)
(3)
Insurance recoveries
–
(1)
–
10
Fire, flood, storm and
related events
related events
(6)
–
(6)
(4)
Segment operating profit
34
54
261
174
Net finance costs
(141)
(112)
(246)
(251)
(Loss) profit before taxation
(107)
(58)
15
(77)
Taxation
1
(10)
(18)
(28)
Loss for the period
(106)
(68)
(3)
(105)
Reconciliation of segment assets to total assets
Segment assets
4,497
5,276
4,497
5,276
Deferred taxation
144
57
144
57
Cash and cash equivalents
403
362
403
362
Other current liabilities
950
1,167
950
1,167
Taxation payable
19
26
19
26
Total assets
6,013
6,888
6,013
6,888
(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 loss for the period, rather than operating profit.
excluding special items to loss for the period, rather than operating profit.
17
sappi
3rd quarter results
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 financial 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.
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 financial 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.
18
Supplemental information
Exchange rates
Jun
2012
Mar
2012
Dec
2011
Sept
2011
Jun
2011
Exchange rates:
Period end rate: US$1 = ZAR
Period end rate: US$1 = ZAR
8.1650
7.6725
8.0862
8.0963
6.7300
Average rate for the Quarter: US$1 = ZAR
8.1229
7.7511
8.0915
7.1501
6.7890
Average rate for the YTD: US$1 = ZAR
7.9885
7.9237
8.0915
6.9578
6.8941
Period end rate: €1 = US$
1.2660
1.3344
1.2948
1.3386
1.4525
Average rate for the Quarter: €1 = US$
1.2838
1.3116
1.3482
1.4126
1.4398
Average rate for the YTD: €1 = US$
1.3145
1.3299
1.3482
1.3947
1.3890
19
sappi
3rd quarter results
Sappi ordinary shares (JSE: SAP)
US Dollar share price conversion
USD
30
Jun
08
Jun
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
31
Mar
12
Mar
12
20
Jul
12
Jul
12
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
30
Jun
12
Jun
12
ZAR
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
30
Jun
08
Jun
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
31
Mar
12
Mar
12
20
Jul
12
Jul
12
30
Jun
12
Jun
12
20
© Sappi Corporate Communications 2012
sappi limited
(Registration number 1936/008963/06)
Issuer Code: SAVVI
JSE Code: SAP
ISIN: ZAE000006284
Sappi has a primary listing on the JSE Limited and a secondary listing on
the New York Stock Exchange
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: August 03, 2012
SAPPI LIMITED,
By: /s/ M. R. Thompson
Name: M. R. Thompson
Title: Chief Financial Officer
Title: Chief Financial Officer