UNITED STATES


SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION


Washington, DC 20549

 

 

 

FORM 6-K

 

 

REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER

PURSUANT TO RULE 13A - 16 OR 15D - 16 OF

THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934


 

(23 August 2018)

Commission File No. 001-32846

 

____________________________



CRH public limited company

(Translation of registrant's name into English)

 

 

____________________________

 

 

Belgard Castle, Clondalkin,


Dublin 22, Ireland.


(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):________

 

 

 




 

 

Enclosure: Half-year Report

 

 

 

2018 Interim Results

 

Key Points

●  H1 performance in line with guidance

●  Continued profit growth despite Q1 weather disruption and currency headwinds; margin in line amid inflationary cost environment

●  Active portfolio management; divestments of €2.9 billion and acquisitions of €3.4 billion (including 28 bolt-on transactions) year-to-date

●  Phase 1 of share buyback programme completed; €350 million returned to shareholders to date

 

Trading Highlights

●  Sales of €11.9 billion, 1% ahead of 2017

●  Like-for-like sales1 ahead 2%; up 1% in Europe, up 3% in the Americas and down 2% in Asia

●  EBITDA of €1.13 billion, 1% ahead of 2017

●  Like-for-like EBITDA ahead 1%; up 1% in Europe, up 3% in the Americas and down 59% in Asia

●  EBITDA margin of 9.5% (H1 2017: 9.5%)

●  EPS from continuing operations of 45.0c per share, 11% ahead of 2017

●  Dividend per share increased 2% to 19.6c

 

Six months ended 30 June	2018	2017 (i)
	€m	€m		Change
Sales revenue	11,944	11,850		+1%
EBITDA	1,130	1,120		+1%
EBITDA margin	9.5%	9.5%		-
Profit before tax from continuing operations	497	475		+5%
Profit after tax from continuing operations	378	346		+9%
Profit after tax from discontinued operations	1,083	26
Group profit for the financial period	1,461	372
Basic earnings per share (€ cent)	174.0	43.5
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations (€ cent)	45.0	40.4		+11%
Dividend per share (€ cent)	19.6	19.2		+2%
(i) Restated to show the results of our Americas Distribution segment in discontinued operations.

 

Albert Manifold, Chief Executive, said today:

"We have had a good first half despite significant weather disruption in Europe and North America in the first quarter. Construction markets continued to recover and pricing gathered momentum in key European markets while there was solid volume and price growth against a positive economic backdrop in the Americas. Active portfolio management remains an important element of our ongoing strategic focus on capital allocation while integration of our recent acquisitions is progressing as planned. I am also pleased to report that the first phase of our share buyback programme has been completed, with €350 million returned to shareholders to date. In addition, the Board has decided to increase the interim dividend by 2.1% to 19.6c per share. For the second half of the year, despite continuing currency headwinds and challenging conditions in the Philippines, we expect an improvement in the momentum experienced in Europe in the first half of the year and further EBITDA growth in the Americas, which will result in another year of progress for the Group."

 

Announced Thursday, 23 August 2018

 

1 See pages 37 to 39 for glossary of alternative performance measures used throughout this Interim Report. 

 

2018 Interim Results

 

Overview

 

Trading results for the first half of 2018 were impacted by severe and prolonged winter weather conditions early in the year. The European construction market continued to recover and satisfactory growth was experienced in the Americas; in Asia, the Philippines continued to experience challenging market conditions. Sales of €11.9 billion for the period were 1% ahead of the same period last year and were 2% ahead on a like-for-like basis. In Europe, like-for-like sales growth of 1% reflected continued recovery in some key markets, while volumes in certain countries did not fully recover by the end of the period, following the harsh early weather. In the Americas, like-for-like sales were 3% ahead of the first six months of 2017, despite less favourable weather conditions across certain regions. Like-for-like sales in Asia were 2% below the first half of 2017.

 

Overall EBITDA was 1% ahead of the first half of 2017. On a like-for-like basis, first half EBITDA for the Group was also 1% ahead, with Europe up 1% supported by modest price recovery in a number of major markets. In the Americas, like-for-like EBITDA was 3% ahead, reflecting volume growth and price improvements with regional variations. Like-for-like EBITDA in Asia was 59% below the first half of 2017 on the back of a very competitive trading environment and higher input costs. Despite the inflationary cost environment, with continued focus on performance in all our businesses, margin remained in line with prior year at 9.5% (H1 2017: 9.5%).

 

Depreciation and amortisation charges of €518 million were broadly in line with last year (H1 2017: €513 million). In addition, in July 2018, the Group completed the divestment of our DIY business in the Netherlands and Belgium, together with certain related property assets, for a total consideration of c. €510 million which resulted in an impairment charge of €20 million at 30 June 2018.

 

Divestments and asset disposals from continuing operations during the period generated total profit on disposals of €46 million (H1 2017: €43 million), as the ongoing recycling of capital continues to be embedded in the business. The profit after tax on the divestment of our Americas Distribution business in January 2018 amounted to €1.1 billion and is included in profit after tax from discontinued operations.

 

The Group's €19 million share of profits from equity accounted investments was ahead of the first half of 2017 (H1 2017: €14 million), reflecting improved results in a number of our associates.

 

Net finance costs for the period were below the first six months of 2017 at €160 million (H1 2017: €189 million), due to lower average debt levels in the period compared with 2017, together with the non-recurrence in 2018 of a one-off charge of €19 million relating to the early redemption of a portion of US dollar bonds in 2017.

 

First half profit before tax was €497 million, compared with a profit of €475 million in the first half of 2017. The interim tax charge, which represents an effective tax rate of 24% of profit before tax, has been estimated, as in prior years, based on current expectations of the full year tax charge. Earnings per share from continuing operations for the period were 11% higher than last year at 45.0c (H1 2017: 40.4c). Earnings per share from continuing and discontinued operations for the period were significantly higher than last year at 174.0c (H1 2017: 43.5c).

Note 2 on page 20 analyses the key components of the first half 2018 performance.

 

Dividend

 

The Board has decided to increase the interim dividend to 19.6c per share, an increase of 2.1% compared with last year's level of 19.2c per share. It is proposed to pay the interim dividend on 26 September 2018 to shareholders registered at the close of business on 7 September 2018.

                                                                                                                                                                                                               

In connection with the share buyback programme, CRH announced the suspension of the scrip dividend scheme on 2 May 2018. Therefore the interim dividend will be paid wholly in cash.

 

Finance

 

Net debt of €8.1 billion at 30 June 2018 was €1.7 billion higher than the figure reported at 30 June 2017, reflecting the significant net acquisition spend in the last twelve months. A first half cash outflow of €0.3 billion from operations reflects the normal seasonal pattern of the Group's trade working capital. As in prior years, we expect a strong operating cash inflow in the second half of 2018 and, given the focused approach to portfolio management and with the Group's strong track record in converting a significant proportion of its EBITDA into operating cash flow, we expect year-end 2018 debt metrics to be in line with normalised levels.

 

In March 2018, the Group successfully issued a total of US$1.5 billion dollar bonds, comprised of a US$0.9 billion 10-year bond at a coupon rate of 3.95% and a US$0.6 billion 30-year bond at a coupon rate of 4.5%. Net debt at 30 June 2018 included US$0.7 billion issued under the US Commercial Paper Programme and €0.2 billion issued under the Euro Commercial Paper Programme. These programmes add to the funding sources available to the Group and are used to fund working capital and short-term liquidity needs.

 

Capital Allocation

 

During the first half of the year, the Group completed the acquisition of Ash Grove Cement Company ('Ash Grove') for €2.85 billion (net of cash acquired), primarily funded by the divestment of our Americas Distribution business. In addition, 21 bolt-on acquisitions and two investment transactions were completed, resulting in a total development spend of c. €3.24 billion (including deferred and contingent consideration in respect of prior year acquisitions). On the divestment front, the Group completed the divestment of our Americas Distribution business in January 2018 and combined with a further six transactions, realised total business and asset disposal proceeds of €2.4 billion.

 

2018 Acquisitions and Investments

The Ash Grove acquisition gives CRH a market leadership position in the North American cement market for the first time, allowing for greater vertical integration with our existing aggregates, asphalt and readymixed concrete businesses. Further to the acquisition of Ash Grove, our Americas Materials Division completed 15 bolt-on acquisitions and one investment throughout the United States (US) and Canada for a total spend of c. €265 million. Our Americas Products Division also completed two bolt-on acquisitions in the first half of 2018, through the acquisition of a precast manufacturer in Utah and an architectural glass business operating in the South East of the US.

 

In Europe, four acquisitions and one investment with a total spend of c. €80 million were completed. Our Heavyside business completed two acquisitions in the United Kingdom (UK) and one investment in Poland. In the UK, we acquired a regional construction and surfacing contractor operating in South Wales, along with a readymixed concrete business in the South West of England. Our Lightside Division completed an acquisition in the UK and in Australia, complementing our existing operations in both countries.

 

Since 30 June 2018, the Group has completed seven bolt-on acquisitions for a total spend of c. €150 million bringing total development spend to date in 2018 to c. €3.4 billion.

 

2018 Divestments and Disposals

 

Business divestments and disposals of surplus property, plant and equipment generated net proceeds of c. €2.4 billion in the first half of the year, with the majority relating to the divestment of our Americas Distribution business in January 2018. Our Americas Materials business divested a cement plant in Montana and a sand and gravel operation in Nebraska as a regulatory requirement from the Ash Grove acquisition. A small divestment was also completed in relation to an asphalt plant in Iowa. In Europe, our Heavyside business completed three small divestments in the UK, Serbia and Poland.

 

In July 2018, the Group completed the divestment of our DIY business in the Netherlands and Belgium, together with certain related property assets, for a total consideration of c. €510 million, bringing total proceeds to date in 2018 to c. €2.9 billion.

 

Share Buyback Programme

 

On 25 April 2018, the Group announced its intention to repurchase ordinary shares of up to €1.0 billion over the forthcoming 12 months. Between 2 May and 31 July 2018, 11.4 million ordinary shares were repurchased on the London Stock Exchange at an average discount of 0.5% to the volume weighted average price over the period. The first phase of the share buyback programme has now been completed, whereby €350 million was returned to shareholders. The Group remains committed to the announced programme and it is expected that the programme will complete over the timeframe indicated.

 

Outlook

 

In Europe, we expect the momentum experienced in the first half to improve and second half EBITDA to be ahead of 2017, amid an inflationary cost environment. In the Americas, against a backdrop of positive economic indicators, we continue to anticipate an improvement in housing and non-residential construction and with improving infrastructure, we expect EBITDA to show further growth. In Asia, our expectation is that challenging market conditions in the Philippines will continue in the second half and that EBITDA will remain at a similar level to the first half of the year. Against this backdrop and despite continuing currency headwinds, we continue to expect another year of progress for the Group.

 

Europe Heavyside

 

Analysis of change
€ million	2017	Exchange	Acquisitions	Divestments	Organic	2018	% change
Sales revenue	3,353	-51	+263	-25	+81	3,621	+8%
EBITDA	351	-7	+34	-	+6	384	+9%
Operating profit	178	-4	+18	-	+8	200	+12%
EBITDA/sales	10.5%					10.6%
Operating profit/sales	5.3%					5.5%

 

Despite severe and prolonged winter weather conditions, market recovery was evident in a number of key markets. Organic sales and operating profit were ahead of 2017, reflecting improvements in overall prices and also the benefits of performance improvement initiatives.

 

In the table above, the sales and profit impact of acquisitions primarily relate to the October 2017 acquisition of Fels, our German lime business, and the 2018 acquisition of a contracting business in the UK.

 

UK

Volumes of cement, aggregates and readymixed concrete were affected by severe weather conditions in Q1 and while activity in Q2 showed improved momentum, volumes remained behind the first half of 2017. Activity in the contracting division improved with the execution of some Government-backed road projects and asphalt volumes were ahead. Price increases were achieved in cement and aggregates; however, higher input costs, particularly in the asphalt division, resulted in operating profit behind 2017.

 

Ireland and Spain

In Ireland, construction activity continues to grow in residential and certain non-residential sectors but volumes of cement, readymixed concrete and aggregates were behind the first half of 2017 due to prolonged winter weather conditions. Despite lower volumes, operating profit was ahead as pricing progress was achieved. In Spain, the macroeconomic environment improved further, although cement and readymixed concrete volumes were behind 2017 primarily due to the completion of a major project; with some price improvements, operating profit was in line with 2017.

 

France, Benelux and Denmark

Our French cement operations delivered price growth; however, volumes were impacted by poor weather and logistics constraints due to national transport strikes and were behind 2017. Our precast business was impacted by lower project activity and overall operating profit was behind 2017. In the Netherlands, the continued improvement in the residential market resulted in our structural and concrete products businesses performing well and price improvements were achieved in the readymixed concrete business; overall operating profit was ahead of the first half of 2017. Higher cement volumes and prices were experienced in the materials business in Belgium. In Denmark, with the benefit of growth in new residential and non-residential construction, both volumes and prices in our structural business improved and sales and operating profit were ahead of 2017.

 

Switzerland and Germany

Cement volumes in Switzerland were ahead of the first half of 2017 against a backdrop of solid construction demand. Pricing pressure remained and cement and readymixed prices declined; however, operating profit was slightly ahead of 2017. Against a backdrop of a steady German market, cement pricing improved; however, following the completion of an acquisition-related supply arrangement, overall volumes were behind in the first half and operating profit was slightly impacted. Our lime business Fels, which was acquired in October 2017, traded in line with expectations.

 

Poland, Finland and Ukraine

In Poland, cement volumes were in line with the first half of 2017 while downstream volumes increased. Price increases were achieved in all products and operating profit was broadly in line. Cement and aggregates volumes in Finland were positively impacted by project activity, while readymixed concrete volumes were behind the first half of 2017. Cement and readymixed concrete prices were broadly in line with 2017 and overall operating profit was ahead. Cement volumes were behind 2017 in Ukraine due to increased capacity in the market and competition from imports; price increases achieved did not fully cover inflationary cost increases and operating profit was behind 2017.

 

Romania, Hungary, Slovakia and Serbia

In Romania, cement volumes were slightly behind the first half of 2017 impacted by poor weather early in the year; however, cement prices progressed and operating profit was ahead of 2017. In Hungary, cement and readymixed concrete volumes and prices improved compared with the first half of 2017. In Slovakia, although cement volumes were behind, readymixed concrete volumes were ahead supported by increased infrastructure and non-residential projects. Our cement operations in Serbia delivered cement volume and price growth and operating profit was ahead of 2017.

 

Europe Lightside

 

Analysis of change
€ million	2017	Exchange	Acquisitions	Organic	2018	% change
Sales revenue	721	-9	+5	+35	752	+4%
EBITDA	59	-1	+1	+4	63	+7%
Operating profit	39	-1	-	+5	43	+10%
EBITDA/sales	8.2%				8.4%
Operating profit/sales	5.4%				5.7%

 

Europe Lightside reported an increase of 5% in organic sales for the first half of 2018 driven by solid volume growth across most platforms. Good leverage was achieved on the increased sales and operating profit improved, although some platforms were impacted by a less favourable product mix and increased input costs.

 

Construction Accessories

Our Construction Accessories businesses supply a broad range of connecting, fixing and anchoring systems to the construction industry. Despite adverse weather conditions early in the year, like-for-like sales in the platform grew by 5%. Operating profit was ahead of 2017 due to good activity in our Western European markets and solid demand in the high-rise residential market of our Australian business.

 

Shutters & Awnings

These businesses serve the attractive repair, maintenance and improvement (RMI) and late-cycle residential markets, supplying sun protection, energy-saving and outdoor living products. Results were in line with 2017, as strong sales in the awnings businesses in the Netherlands and Germany were largely offset by lower export activity at the German shutters business.

 

Network Access Products & Perimeter Protection

Network Access Products, with operations in the UK, Ireland and Australia, recorded a strong increase in sales, supported by recent development activity. While the Australian business benefited from higher volumes, the UK business was impacted by an unfavourable product mix. Overall profit was slightly behind the first half of 2017. Both sales and operating profit in the Perimeter Protection business were ahead of the first half of 2017, with continued improvement in the mobile perimeter protection business from good underlying market demand offsetting decreases in some permanent fencing markets.

 

Architectural Products

Architectural Products comprises exterior paving businesses in Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, Belgium, France and Slovakia. Sales and operating profit for the first half of the year were ahead of 2017, benefiting from a good economic environment in Poland and the Netherlands.

 

Europe Distribution

 

Analysis of change
€ million	2017	Exchange	Acquisitions	Organic	2018	% change
Sales revenue*	2,011	-39	+51	-52	1,971	-2%
EBITDA	93	-1	+1	-4	89	-4%
Operating profit	62	-	-	-19	43	-31%
EBITDA/sales	4.6%				4.5%
Operating profit/sales	3.1%				2.2%

* Reported H1 2018 sales were impacted by the change in treatment of certain direct sales at General Builders Merchants to an agency (net commission) basis following the adoption of the new revenue accounting standard, IFRS 15. Excluding the adjustment (c. €80 million), like-for-like sales were +1% ahead of 2017.

 

Despite adverse weather conditions in the first quarter, Europe Distribution organic sales, excluding the change in treatment of certain direct sales referred to above, were slightly ahead due to good demand in the Netherlands and Germany. Ongoing trading challenges in Switzerland continued to impact results and EBITDA was behind 2017.

 

In July 2018, the Group completed the divestment of our DIY business in the Netherlands and Belgium, together with certain related property assets, for a total consideration of c. €510 million which resulted in an impairment charge of €20 million at 30 June 2018.

 

General Builders Merchants

Like-for-like sales for our General Builders Merchants business, excluding the change in treatment of certain direct sales, increased in the first half of 2018. Trading in the Netherlands continued to benefit from growth in the new residential sector and increased market penetration in certain segments, which resulted in a positive sales and operating profit performance. Sales and operating profit at our German business were ahead of the first half of 2017 in a stable market environment, benefiting from two acquisitions. While organic sales in Switzerland were ahead of 2017, margins continued to be under pressure due to mix, as lower margin direct sales increased. In France and Austria, sales and operating profit were marginally behind 2017.

 

Sanitary, Heating and Plumbing (SHAP)

Sales for our SHAP business, which operates in three countries, were marginally behind 2017, with the impact of additional locations in Germany offset by declines in Belgium and ongoing trading challenges in the Swiss market. Operating profit also declined, impacted by lower sales and increased costs, particularly in the Belgian business.

 

DIY (Do-It-Yourself)

While overall sales were behind 2017 driven by the trend towards online sales, particularly in the Netherlands, continued focus on operational productivity and overhead reduction resulted in improved EBITDA. Despite competitive market circumstances, results in Belgium and Germany were in line with 2017.

 

Americas Materials

 

Analysis of change
€ million	2017	Exchange	Acquisitions	Organic	2018	% change
Sales revenue	3,166	-320	+211	+121	3,178	0%
EBITDA	288	-33	+39	+3	297	+3%
Operating profit	87	-13	+21	-1	94	+8%
EBITDA/sales	9.1%				9.3%
Operating profit/sales	2.7%				3.0%

 

Following the harsh weather conditions experienced at the beginning of the year, Americas Materials recovered in the second quarter, driven by solid activity in the US, with good demand and pricing advancement across most regions. Organic sales were 4% ahead of 2017, with organic EBITDA 1% ahead, despite the impact of labour and energy price increases.

 

In addition to the acquisition of Ash Grove, our Materials Division spent c. €265 million (including deferred and contingent consideration in respect of prior year acquisitions) on 15 bolt-on acquisitions and one investment throughout the US and Canada.

 

United States

Total aggregates volumes, including the impact of acquisitions and divestments, were 9% ahead of 2017 and average prices increased by 1%; like-for-like volumes increased 4% and like-for-like pricing improved 2%, supported by more benign weather in the second quarter and solid underlying market demand in the West and South divisions. After a shortfall in asphalt volumes in Q1 across most regions, first half total volumes were 2% ahead of 2017 and were flat on a like-for-like basis, while total prices increased by 6% against a backdrop of higher input costs. US readymixed concrete volumes on a like-for-like basis were 2% ahead of 2017, and average prices increased 4%, while total volumes including acquisitions were 26% ahead. Total sales in our paving and construction services business increased 6%, but margin was under pressure. Energy costs were higher in the first half of the year compared with 2017 with increases in bitumen, diesel and gasoline costs.

 

The Materials operations in the US are organised into four divisions: North, South, Central and West. Like-for-like sales in the North division were 4% ahead of 2017 as aggregates volume recovery in the second quarter supplemented good price increases across all products. Increased energy costs and margin pressure in our construction business resulted in operating profit and margin being behind 2017. Like-for-like sales in the South division were 10% ahead, as volume and price increases across all products were further aided by an early start to the construction season due to favourable weather in some key states. Cost inflation saw margins under pressure; however, with ongoing performance improvement initiatives, operating profit and margin were ahead of 2017. The performance in the Central division was impacted by rainfall and flooding in the second quarter following the colder start to the year, which particularly impacted the construction and asphalt businesses, and like-for-like sales were down 4%. Operating profit was also behind, driven by the lower activity and margin pressure. The West division delivered a like-for-like sales increase of 12%, with strong underlying market demand leading to increased readymixed concrete and construction sales. Solid margin expansion in both of these business lines led to operating profit increases.

 

With the completion of the Ash Grove acquisition on 20 June 2018, CRH is now a leading cement producer in the US, with the most significant of our operations across Florida, Texas, the Midwest and Western US. Trading has been as expected, but the timing of completion resulted in limited contribution to the first half results.

 

Canada

Our cement volumes were in line with 2017, reflecting declines in our domestic volumes offset by increased deliveries to the US market. Average cement prices decreased, due to some pricing pressure in Canada as a result of new competition and changes in product mix. Sales and operating profit were behind 2017 impacted by pricing and harsh weather in the early months of the year.

 

Brazil

Against a challenging economic and political backdrop, weakness in the construction market continued during the first half of 2018. Cement volumes were in line with 2017, but with a focus on commercial initiatives, selling prices increased and like-for-like sales were 8% ahead. Operating profit was below 2017, as increased fuel and freight costs and the impact of a national transportation strike in May more than offset the price improvements.

 

Americas Products

 

Analysis of change
€ million	2017	Exchange	Acquisitions	Divestments	Organic	2018	% change
Sales revenue	2,355	-238	+72	-2	+29	2,216	-6%
EBITDA	295	-33	+8	+1	+15	286	-3%
Operating profit	225	-27	+4	+1	+15	218	-3%
EBITDA/sales	12.5%					12.9%
Operating profit/sales	9.6%					9.8%

 

The favourable macroeconomic climate continued into the first half of 2018, with a strong labour market and good consumer sentiment. However, volumes across the Division were impacted by more unfavourable weather conditions than those experienced in 2017 and competitive markets. As a result, like-for-like sales in the first half of 2018 were broadly in line with 2017. Overall organic operating profit and margins increased with improved pricing and a continued focus on commercial and operational initiatives, particularly in Precast.

 

Architectural Products (APG)

APG is the leading supplier of concrete masonry and hardscape products in North America and has strong national positions in dry mixes, packaged lawn and garden products and composite decking. In addition to contractor-based new construction, the DIY and professional RMI segments are significant end-users. Following prolonged winter weather experienced into April, improved weather in May and June enabled better trading and like-for-like sales increased 1% compared with first half 2017. Higher logistics costs and labour shortages impacted margin, but overall, APG recorded a moderate increase in organic operating profit due to increased sales and tight overhead control.

 

BuildingEnvelope® (OBE)

The BuildingEnvelope® group is North America's largest supplier of architectural glass, aluminium glazing systems and custom hardware products to the glass and glazing industry. Revenue growth was driven by our CRL business and acquisition impacts, partly offset by lower sales volumes from architectural glass and aluminium glazing systems. Despite rising input costs, including aluminium and labour, a continued focus on overhead cost management led to organic operating profit being ahead of 2017.

 

Precast

Our Precast business supplies a broad range of value-added concrete and related utility infrastructure products and accessories with the electrical, telecommunications, water and transportation sectors being major end-markets. Strong underlying performance was driven by pricing improvements and modest volume growth, resulting in like-for-like sales increasing 4% compared with the first half of 2017. This robust sales growth, together with specific operational initiatives to increase labour efficiency and optimise production, positively impacted margin, and operating profit was well ahead of 2017.

 

Asia

 

Analysis of change
€ million	2017	Exchange	Organic	2018	% change
Sales revenue	244	-34	-4	206	-16%
EBITDA	34	-7	-16	11	-68%
Operating profit/(loss)	16	-4	-18	-6	-138%
EBITDA/sales	13.9%			5.3%
Operating profit/sales	6.6%			-2.9%

 

In addition to our subsidiary businesses in the Philippines, the Group also has a share of profit after tax from our stakes in Yatai Building Materials in China and My Home Industries Limited (MHIL) in India which are reported within the Group's share of equity accounted investments' profit, as part of profit before tax.

 

Philippines

Volumes for the first half of 2018 were in line with 2017; however, pricing improvements were more than offset by higher fuel and power costs, resulting in operating profit and margin behind the first half of 2017.

 

The long-term outlook for the construction industry in the Philippines remains positive, with the economy expected to grow, driven by rising Government infrastructure spending and a stable inflow of remittances from overseas workers.

 

China and India

Yatai Building Materials benefited from higher prices compared with 2017, which was partly offset by lower volumes and increased fuel costs. Operating profit was ahead of the first half of 2017.

Cement volumes in MHIL increased due to a sustained pick-up in infrastructure work but competitive pricing pressure and higher fuel costs more than offset the benefit of the volume improvements. As a result, operating profit was lower than the first half of 2017.

 

Condensed Interim

Financial Statements

and

Summarised Notes

Six months ended 30 June 2018

 

Condensed Consolidated Income Statement

					Year ended
	Six months ended 30 June				31 December
			Restated1
	2018		2017		2017
	Unaudited		Unaudited		Audited
	€m		€m		€m
Revenue	11,944		11,850		25,220
Cost of sales	(8,236)		(8,090)		(16,903)
Gross profit	3,708		3,760		8,317
Operating costs	(3,116)		(3,153)		(6,222)
Group operating profit	592		607		2,095
Profit on disposals	46		43		56
Profit before finance costs	638		650		2,151
Finance costs	(167)		(155)		(301)
Finance income	23		5		12
Other financial expense	(16)		(39)		(60)
Share of equity accounted investments' profit	19		14		65
Profit before tax from continuing operations	497		475		1,867
Income tax expense - estimated at interim	(119)		(129)		(55)
Group profit for the financial period from continuing operations	378		346		1,812
Profit after tax for the financial period from discontinued operations	1,083		26		107
Group profit for the financial period	1,461		372		1,919
Profit attributable to:
Equity holders of the Company
From continuing operations	378		337		1,788
From discontinued operations	1,083		26		107
Non-controlling interests
From continuing operations	-		9		24
Group profit for the financial period	1,461		372		1,919
Basic earnings per Ordinary Share	174.0c		43.5c		226.8c
Diluted earnings per Ordinary Share	173.1c		43.3c		225.4c
Basic earnings per Ordinary Share from continuing operations	45.0c		40.4c		214.0c
Diluted earnings per Ordinary Share from continuing operations	44.8c		40.2c		212.7c
1 Restated to show the results of our Americas Distribution segment in discontinued operations. See note 9 for further details.

 

 

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
					Year ended
	Six months ended 30 June				31 December
	2018		2017		2017
	Unaudited		Unaudited		Audited
	€m		€m		€m
Group profit for the financial period	1,461		372		1,919
Other comprehensive income
Items that may be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods:
Currency translation effects	124		(650)		(1,076)
Gains/(losses) relating to cash flow hedges	8		(2)		8
	132		(652)		(1,068)
Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods:
Remeasurement of retirement benefit obligations	58		91		114
Tax on items recognised directly within other comprehensive income	(12)		(15)		(33)
	46		76		81
Total other comprehensive income for the financial period	178		(576)		(987)
Total comprehensive income for the financial period	1,639		(204)		932
Attributable to:
Equity holders of the Company	1,654		(168)		969
Non-controlling interests	(15)		(36)		(37)
Total comprehensive income for the financial period	1,639		(204)		932

 

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet

	As at 30		As at 30		As at 31
	June 2018		June 2017		December 2017
	Unaudited €m		Unaudited €m		Audited €m
ASSETS
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment	15,607		12,409		13,094
Intangible assets	8,615		7,548		7,214
Investments accounted for using the equity method	1,111		1,247		1,248
Other financial assets	24		25		25
Other receivables	164		210		156
Derivative financial instruments	30		46		30
Deferred income tax assets	84		135		95
Total non-current assets	25,635		21,620		21,862
Current assets
Inventories	3,151		3,115		2,715
Trade and other receivables	5,084		4,865		3,630
Current income tax recoverable	7		7		165
Derivative financial instruments	31		60		34
Cash and cash equivalents	1,848		1,930		2,115
Assets held for sale	-		-		1,112
Total current assets	10,121		9,977		9,771
Total assets	35,756		31,597		31,633
EQUITY
Capital and reserves attributable to the Company's equity holders
Equity share capital	287		285		286
Preference share capital	1		1		1
Share premium account	6,534		6,346		6,417
Treasury Shares and own shares	(224)		(17)		(15)
Other reserves	264		256		285
Foreign currency translation reserve	(247)		24		(386)
Retained income	8,862		6,515		7,903
Capital and reserves attributable to the Company's equity holders	15,477		13,410		14,491
Non-controlling interests	494		506		486
Total equity	15,971		13,916		14,977
LIABILITIES
Non-current liabilities
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings	8,557		7,980		7,660
Derivative financial instruments	37		-		3
Deferred income tax liabilities	2,059		1,890		1,666
Other payables	435		416		226
Retirement benefit obligations	454		500		377
Provisions for liabilities	748		666		693
Total non-current liabilities	12,290		11,452		10,625
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables	5,155		5,000		4,534
Current income tax liabilities	564		441		458
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings	1,356		418		316
Derivative financial instruments	14		6		11
Provisions for liabilities	406		364		371
Liabilities associated with assets classified as held for sale	-		-		341
Total current liabilities	7,495		6,229		6,031
Total liabilities	19,785		17,681		16,656
Total equity and liabilities	35,756		31,597		31,633

 

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

	Attributable to the equity holders of the Company
			Treasury		Foreign
	Issued	Share	Shares/		currency		Non-
	share	premium	own	Other	translation	Retained	controlling	Total
	capital	account	shares	reserves	reserve	income	Interests	equity
	€m	€m	€m	€m	€m	€m	€m	€m
For the financial period ended 30 June 2018 (unaudited)
At 1 January 2018	287	6,417	(15)	285	(386)	7,903	486	14,977
Group profit for the period	-	-	-	-	-	1,461	-	1,461
Other comprehensive income	-	-	-	-	139	54	(15)	178
Total comprehensive income	-	-	-	-	139	1,515	(15)	1,639
Issue of share capital (net of expenses)	-	62	-	-	-	-	-	62
Share-based payment expense	-	-	-	35	-	-	-	35
Shares acquired by CRH plc (Treasury Shares)	-	-	(214)	-	-	(136)	-	(350)
Treasury/own shares reissued	-	-	8	-	-	(8)	-	-
Shares acquired by the Employee Benefit Trust (own shares)	-	-	(3)	-	-	-	-	(3)
Shares distributed under the Performance Share Plan Awards	1	55	-	(56)	-	-	-	-
Tax relating to share-based payment expense	-	-	-	-	-	(5)	-	(5)
Share option exercises	-	-	-	-	-	2	-	2
Dividends (including shares issued in lieu of dividends)	-	-	-	-	-	(409)	(9)	(418)
Non-controlling interests arising on acquisition of subsidiaries	-	-	-	-	-	-	31	31
Transactions involving non-controlling interests	-	-	-	-	-	-	1	1
At 30 June 2018	288	6,534	(224)	264	(247)	8,862	494	15,971
For the financial period ended 30 June 2017 (unaudited)
At 1 January 2017	285	6,237	(14)	286	629	6,472	548	14,443
Group profit for the period	-	-	-	-	-	363	9	372
Other comprehensive income	-	-	-	-	(605)	74	(45)	(576)
Total comprehensive income	-	-	-	-	(605)	437	(36)	(204)
Issue of share capital (net of expenses)	-	47	-	-	-	-	-	47
Share-based payment expense	-	-	-	33	-	-	-	33
Shares acquired by the Employee Benefit Trust (own shares)	-	-	(3)	-	-	-	-	(3)
Shares distributed under the Performance Share Plan Awards	1	62	-	(63)	-	-	-	-
Tax relating to share-based payment expense	-	-	-	-	-	(8)	-	(8)
Dividends (including shares issued in lieu of dividends)	-	-	-	-	-	(386)	(7)	(393)
Transactions involving non-controlling interests	-	-	-	-	-	-	1	1
At 30 June 2017	286	6,346	(17)	256	24	6,515	506	13,916

 

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity - continued

	Attributable to the equity holders of the Company
			Treasury		Foreign
	Issued	Share	Shares/		currency		Non-
	share	premium	own	Other	translation	Retained	controlling	Total
	capital	account	shares	reserves	reserve	income	Interests	equity
	€m	€m	€m	€m	€m	€m	€m	€m
For the financial year ended 31 December 2017 (audited)
At 1 January 2017	285	6,237	(14)	286	629	6,472	548	14,443
Group profit for the financial year	-	-	-	-	-	1,895	24	1,919
Other comprehensive income	-	-	-	-	(1,015)	89	(61)	(987)
Total comprehensive income	-	-	-	-	(1,015)	1,984	(37)	932
Issue of share capital (net of expenses)	1	118	-	-	-	-	-	119
Share-based payment expense	-	-	-	62	-	-	-	62
Treasury/own shares reissued	-	-	2	-	-	(2)	-	-
Shares acquired by the Employee Benefit Trust (own shares)	-	-	(3)	-	-	-	-	(3)
Shares distributed under the Performance Share Plan Awards	1	62	-	(63)	-	-	-	-
Tax relating to share-based payment expense	-	-	-	-	-	(5)	-	(5)
Dividends (including shares issued in lieu of dividends)	-	-	-	-	-	(546)	(8)	(554)
Non-controlling interests arising on acquisition of subsidiaries	-	-	-	-	-	-	20	20
Transactions involving non-controlling interests	-	-	-	-	-	-	(37)	(37)
At 31 December 2017	287	6,417	(15)	285	(386)	7,903	486	14,977

 

 

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

					Year ended
	Six months ended 30 June				31 December
	2018		2017		2017
	Unaudited		Unaudited		Audited
	€m		€m		€m
Cash flows from operating activities
Profit before tax from continuing operations	497		475		1,867
Profit before tax from discontinued operations	1,415		42		146
Profit before tax	1,912		517		2,013
Finance costs (net)	160		189		349
Share of equity accounted investments' profit	(19)		(14)		(65)
Profit on disposals	(1,466)		(45)		(59)
Group operating profit	587		647		2,238
Depreciation charge	488		494		1,006
Amortisation of intangible assets	30		34		66
Impairment charge	20		-		-
Share-based payment expense	35		33		65
Other (primarily pension payments)	10		11		(186)
Net movement on working capital and provisions	(1,108)		(1,021)		(209)
Cash generated from operations	62		198		2,980
Interest paid (including finance leases)	(158)		(145)		(317)
Corporation tax paid	(215)		(102)		(474)
Net cash (outflow)/inflow from operating activities	(311)		(49)		2,189
Cash flows from investing activities
Proceeds from disposals (net of cash disposed and deferred proceeds)	2,386		145		222
Interest received	23		5		11
Dividends received from equity accounted investments	22		15		31
Purchase of property, plant and equipment	(509)		(513)		(1,044)
Acquisition of subsidiaries (net of cash acquired)	(3,214)		(591)		(1,841)
Other investments and advances	(1)		(8)		(11)
Deferred and contingent acquisition consideration paid	(28)		(33)		(53)
Net cash outflow from investing activities	(1,321)		(980)		(2,685)
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from issue of shares (net)	11		33		42
Proceeds from exercise of share options	2		-		-
Transactions involving non-controlling interests	1		-		(37)
Increase in interest-bearing loans, borrowings and finance leases	2,138		1,282		1,010
Net cash flow arising from derivative financial instruments	19		33		169
Premium paid on early debt redemption	-		(19)		(18)
Treasury/own shares purchased	(217)		(3)		(3)
Repayment of interest-bearing loans, borrowings and finance leases	(250)		(344)		(343)
Dividends paid to equity holders of the Company	(358)		(372)		(469)
Dividends paid to non-controlling interests	(9)		(7)		(8)
Net cash inflow from financing activities	1,337		603		343
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents	(295)		(426)		(153)
Reconciliation of opening to closing cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January	2,135		2,449		2,449
Translation adjustment	8		(93)		(161)
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents	(295)		(426)		(153)
Cash and cash equivalents at 30 June	1,848		1,930		2,135

 

 

 

Supplementary Information

Selected Explanatory Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements

 

1.    Basis of Preparation and Accounting Policies

 

Basis of Preparation

The financial information presented in this report has been prepared in accordance with the Group's accounting policies under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as approved by the European Union, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and in accordance with IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting.

 

These Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements do not include all the information and disclosures required in the Annual Consolidated Financial Statements and should be read in conjunction with the Group's 2017 Annual Report and Form 20-F.

 

The accounting policies and methods of computation employed in the preparation of the Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements are the same as those employed in the preparation of the Annual Consolidated Financial Statements in respect of the year ended 31 December 2017, except for the adoption of new standards, interpretations and standard amendments effective as of 1 January 2018.

 

Adoption of IFRS and International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (IFRIC) interpretations

 

The following new standards, interpretations and standard amendments became effective for the Group as of 1 January 2018:

 

●          IFRS 9 Financial Instruments

●          IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers

●            IFRIC 22 Foreign Currency Transactions and Advance Consideration

●            Amendments to IFRS 2 Share-based Payment

●            Amendments to IAS 28 Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures

 

While the new standards, interpretations and standard amendments did not result in a material impact on the Group's results, the nature and effect of changes required by IFRS 9 and IFRS 15 are described below.

 

IFRS 9

IFRS 9 replaces IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement. It addresses the classification, measurement and derecognition of financial assets and financial liabilities, introduces a new impairment model for financial assets and new rules for hedge accounting. The Group has applied IFRS 9 retrospectively, but elected not to restate comparative information.

 

Financial Asset Classification

As of 1 January 2018, the Group assessed the business models and contractual cash flows which apply to its financial assets and classified the assets into the appropriate IFRS 9 categories accordingly. The tests applied and resulting classifications are as follows:

 

Financial asset category	Classification and measurement under IAS 39	Classification and measurement under IFRS 9	Classification test outcomes
Cash and cash equivalents	Loans and receivables at fair value (initial recognition) followed by amortised cost (subsequent measurement)	Financial assets at fair value (initial recognition) followed by amortised cost net of impairments (subsequent measurement)	Business model test result: hold to collect contractual cash flows Cash flow characteristics test result: solely payments of principal and interest
Trade receivables
Other receivables
Other financial assets
Deferred proceeds
Contingent proceeds	Fair value through profit or loss	Fair value through profit or loss	Business model test result: hold to collect contractual cash flows Cash flow characteristics test result: potential variability in future payments results in changes to fair value

 

As outlined above, the classification requirements under IFRS 9 did not impact the measurement or carrying amount of financial assets.

 

 

1.    Basis of Preparation and Accounting Policies - continued

 

Impairment of Financial Assets

The Group's financial assets measured at amortised cost, the most significant of which are trade receivables and amounts receivable in respect of construction contracts, are subject to IFRS 9's new expected credit loss model. The Group's impairment methodology has been revised in line with the requirements of IFRS 9. The simplified approach to providing for expected credit losses has been applied to trade receivables, which requires the use of a lifetime expected loss provision.

 

As part of the IFRS 9 transition project, the Group assessed its existing trade and other receivables for impairment, using reasonable and supportable information that is available without undue cost or effort, to determine the credit risk of the receivables at the date on which they were initially recognised and compared that to the credit risk as at 1 January 2018. This assessment has not resulted in a material adjustment to trade and other receivables.

 

Hedge Accounting

The new hedge accounting rules align the accounting for hedging instruments more closely with the Group's risk management practices. As a general rule, more hedge relationships are eligible for hedge accounting, as the standard introduces a more principles-based approach. The Group's current hedge relationships qualify as continuing hedges upon the adoption of IFRS 9. Accordingly, there has not been a significant impact on the accounting for hedging relationships.

 

IFRS 15

IFRS 15 replaced IAS 18 Revenue, IAS 11 Construction Contracts and related interpretations. Under IFRS 15, the Group recognises revenue in the amount of the price expected to be received for goods and services supplied at a point in time or over time, as contractual performance obligations are fulfilled and control of goods and services passes to the customer. Where revenue is earned over time as contractual performance obligations are satisfied, the percentage-of-completion method remains the primary method by which revenue recognition is measured. The completion percentage is generally measured based on the proportion of contract costs incurred at the balance sheet date relative to the total estimated costs of the construction. When it is probable that total contract costs will exceed total contract revenue, similar to the treatment under IAS 11, a provision is recorded in accordance with IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets. The provision is measured at the lower of the unavoidable loss and costs to complete the contract. Variable consideration is recognised when it is highly probable that a significant reversal in the amount of cumulative revenue recognised will not occur and is measured using the expected value (i.e. the sum of a probability-weighted amount) or the most likely amount method, whichever is expected to better predict the amount based on the terms and conditions of the contract.

 

In accordance with the requirements of IFRS 15, new disclosures outlining the disaggregation of revenue by geographic market and principal activities and products are included in note 4 to these Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements.

 

The Group adopted IFRS 15 following an extensive transition project, which included an assessment of the impact of multiple performance obligations and variable consideration within our construction contract businesses, and whether certain revenue might be more appropriately recorded on an agency or net basis, rather than on a gross basis under IFRS 15. The assessment did not result in a material impact on the Group's revenue recognition.

 

IFRS and IFRIC interpretations being adopted in subsequent years

 

IFRS 16 Leases

IFRS 16 will replace IAS 17 Leases and related interpretations. CRH will adopt IFRS 16 from 1 January 2019 by applying the modified retrospective approach. The Group will apply the recognition exemption for both short-term leases and leases of low value assets. The Group does not expect to avail of the practical expedient to not separate non-lease components from lease components; nor does it intend to avail of the practical expedient allowing leases previously classified as operating leases, and ending within 12 months of the date of transition, to be accounted for as short-term leases.

 

Certain of the Group's key financial metrics will be impacted upon transition to IFRS 16. The adoption of the new standard will have a material impact on the Group's Consolidated Income Statement and Consolidated Balance Sheet, as follows:

 

Income Statement

Cost of sales and operating costs (excluding depreciation) will decrease, as the Group currently recognises operating lease expenses in either cost of sales or operating costs (depending on the nature of the relevant operations and of the lease). The Group's operating lease expense for the first half of 2018 was €283 million (H1 2017: €296 million for continuing operations) and is disclosed in note 13 to these Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements. Payments for leases which meet the recognition exemption criteria and certain other lease payments which do not meet the criteria for capitalisation will continue to be recorded as an expense within cost of sales and operating costs (excluding depreciation).

 

Depreciation and finance costs as currently reported in the Group's Income Statement will increase, as under the new standard a right-of-use asset will be capitalised and depreciated over the term of the lease with an associated finance cost applied annually to the lease liability.

 

Balance Sheet

At transition date, the Group will determine the minimum lease payments outstanding at that date (along with payments for renewal options which are reasonably certain to be exercised) and apply the appropriate discount rate to calculate the present value of the lease liability and right-of-use asset to be recognised on the Group's balance sheet.

 

The Group's outstanding commitment in respect of all operating leases as at 30 June 2018 is €2,028 million (30 June 2017: €2,220 million) (see note 14 to these Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements). The Group's commitment as at 30 June 2018 provides an indication of the scale of leases held and how significant leases currently are to CRH's business. The commitment excludes renewal options that are reasonably certain of being exercised (which will impact the lease liability on transition) and is not discounted.

 

The incremental borrowing rates to be applied in arriving at the liability on transition are based on a discount rate methodology, which will be impacted by both changes in the global interest rate environment between now and 1 January 2019 and CRH specific factors. Aside from this and other external and internal factors that could impact the lease profile of the Group as a whole, the lease liability on transition may fall within a broadly similar range as the operating lease commitment. The Group is continuing to assess the impact of the new standard.

 

IFRIC 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments

 

IFRIC 23 was issued in June 2017; with an effective date of 1 January 2019. It clarifies the accounting for uncertainties in income taxes. The Group does not expect the adoption of IFRIC 23 to have a material impact on its results.

 

Impairment

 

As at 30 June 2018, the Group performed a review of indicators of impairment relating to goodwill allocated to cash-generating units for which sensitivity analysis of the recoverable amounts was disclosed in the year-end 2017 Consolidated Financial Statements. The carrying values of items of property, plant and equipment were also reviewed for indicators of impairment. These reviews did not give rise to any impairment charges in the first half of 2018 (H1 2017: €nil million).

 

However, in July 2018, the Group reached agreement with Intergamma, the Dutch DIY franchise organisation, and a US real estate investor to divest of its DIY business in the Netherlands and Belgium, together with certain related property assets, which forms part of the Europe Distribution segment. The transaction closed on 13 July 2018 for a consideration of €0.5 billion. At 30 June 2018, the net assets of DIY were measured at their recoverable amounts, fair value less costs of disposal, as a standalone cash generating unit, which resulted in the recognition of an impairment charge of €20 million. As at 30 June 2018, there were a number of substantive steps, outside of the control of the Company, requiring completion before the transaction could be regarded as highly probable. As a result, the DIY business and related property assets did not meet the criteria to be classified as held for sale under IFRS 5 Non-Current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations at 30 June 2018.

 

As part of our annual process, we will update our impairment reviews prior to the finalisation of the full year Consolidated Financial Statements for 2018. We will assess the impact of any of the Group's markets that remain challenging (and of our consequential management actions) to determine whether they have an impact on the long-term valuation of our cash-generating units.

 

Going Concern

 

The Group has considerable financial resources and a large number of customers and suppliers across different geographic areas and industries. In addition, the local nature of building materials means that the Group's products are not usually shipped cross-border.

 

Having assessed the relevant business risks, the Directors believe that the Group is well placed to manage these risks successfully and they have a reasonable expectation that CRH plc, and the Group as a whole, has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future with no material uncertainties. For this reason, the Directors continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements.

 

 

1.    Basis of Preparation and Accounting Policies - continued

       Translation of Foreign Currencies

The financial information is presented in euro. Results and cash flows of operations based in non-euro countries have been translated into euro at average exchange rates for the period, and the related balance sheets have been translated at the rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. The principal rates used for translation of results, cash flows and balance sheets into euro were:

 

	Average				Period end
	Six months ended		Year ended		Six months ended		Year ended
	30 June		31 December		30 June		31 December
euro 1 =	2018	2017	2017		2018	2017	2017
Brazilian Real	4.1415	3.4431	3.6054		4.4876	3.7600	3.9729
Canadian Dollar	1.5457	1.4453	1.4647		1.5442	1.4785	1.5039
Chinese Renminbi	7.7086	7.4448	7.6290		7.7170	7.7385	7.8044
Hungarian Forint	314.1128	309.4213	309.1933		329.7700	308.9700	310.3300
Indian Rupee	79.4903	71.1760	73.5324		79.8130	73.7445	76.6055
Philippine Peso	62.9356	54.0769	56.9734		62.1740	57.5750	59.7950
Polish Zloty	4.2207	4.2690	4.2570		4.3732	4.2259	4.1770
Pound Sterling	0.8798	0.8606	0.8767		0.8861	0.8793	0.8872
Romanian Leu	4.6543	4.5370	4.5688		4.6631	4.5523	4.6585
Serbian Dinar	118.3134	123.3140	121.3232		118.8546	120.5000	118.3086
Swiss Franc	1.1697	1.0766	1.1117		1.1569	1.0930	1.1702
Ukrainian Hryvnia	32.3560	28.9707	30.0341		30.6845	29.7331	33.6769
US Dollar	1.2104	1.0830	1.1297		1.1658	1.1412	1.1993

 

2.    Key Components of Performance for the First Half of 2018  

          Continuing operations

 

€ million	Sales revenue	EBITDA	Operating profit	Profit on disposals	Finance costs (net)	Assoc. and JV PAT	Pre-tax profit
First half 2017	11,850	1,120	607	43	(189)	14	475
Exchange effects	(691)	(82)	(49)	(2)	12	(1)	(40)
2017 at 2018 rates	11,159	1,038	558	41	(177)	13	435
Incremental impact in 2018 of:
-   2017/2018 acquisitions	602	83	43	-	(10)	1	34
-   2017/2018 divestments	(27)	1	1	1	-	-	2
-   Early bond redemption	-	-	-	-	17	-	17
-   Organic	210	8	(10)	4	10	5	9
First half 2018	11,944	1,130	592	46	(160)	19	497
% Total change	1%	1%	(2%)				5%
% Organic change	2%	1%	(2%)				2%