EX-1.19 2 dp140373_ex0119.htm EXHIBIT 1.19

Exhibit 1.19

 

  9 November 2020

 

SUPPLEMENT TO THE MERGER AND LISTING PROSPECTUS – 9 NOVEMBER 2020

 

NOT FOR PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO AUSTRALIA, CANADA, HONG KONG, JAPAN, SOUTH AFRICA OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION WHERE SUCH PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION WOULD VIOLATE APPLICABLE LAWS OR RULES OR WOULD REQUIRE ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS TO BE COMPLETED OR REGISTERED OR REQUIRE ANY MEASURE TO BE UNDERTAKEN IN ADDITION TO THE REQUIREMENTS UNDER FINNISH LAW. SEE “IMPORTANT INFORMATION” ON PAGES 20–21 BELOW.

 

This document (the “Supplement”) is a supplement to the merger and listing prospectus dated 23 October 2020 (the “Merger Prospectus”) in respect of the merger of Arcus ASA (“Arcus”) into Altia Plc (“Altia”). The Merger Prospectus has been approved by the Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority (the “FIN-FSA”) as the competent authority under Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (the “Prospectus Regulation”) on 23 October 2020. The decision number of such approval is FIVA 49/02.05.04/2020. A certificate of approval of this Supplement, with a copy of this Supplement will be notified to the Norwegian Financial Supervision Authority in accordance with the Prospectus Regulation.

 

The definitions used in this supplement have the same meaning as in the Merger Prospectus, unless otherwise stated. This Supplement constitutes a part of the Merger Prospectus and should be read together therewith.

 

This Supplement is prepared due to the announcement of Altia’s unaudited business review for the nine months ended 30 September 2020 (the “Business Review”) and Arcus’ unaudited interim financial report for the nine months ended 30 September 2020 (the “Interim Report”) on 6 November 2020.

 

Consequently, the information contained in the Merger Prospectus is supplemented in the manner set out in this Supplement. The Business Review and the Interim Report are hereby incroporated by refence into the Merger Prospectus. The section “Information Incorporated by Reference into this Merger Prospectus” on page 171 of the Merger Prospectus is updated accordingly as presented below. 

 

 

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENT

 

 

Supplements to the section “Summary” 3
Supplements to the section “Tiivistelmä” 4
Supplements to the section “Certain Matters” 6
Supplements to the section “Information on the Combined Company” 6
Supplements to the section “Altia’s Capitalisation and Indebtedness” 7
Supplements to the section “Selected Consolidated Financial Information” 7
Supplements to the section “Information on Altia” 15
Supplements to the section “Information on Arcus” 17
Supplements to the section “Information Incorporated by Reference into this Merger Prospectus” 19

 

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SUPPLEMENTS TO THE MERGER PROSPECTUS

 

Supplements to the section “Summary”

 

Due to the publication of the Business Review and the Interim Report, the section of the Merger Prospectus entitled “Summary” is supplemented as follows:

 

1)The following text is inserted to replace the first paragraph of the section entitled “Summary – What is the Key Financial Information Regarding the Issuer?” on page 2 of the Merger Prospectus:

 

The following table present selected consolidated financial information of Altia as at and for the nine months periods ended 30 September 2020 and 30 September 2019, and as at and for the six months periods ended 30 June 2020 and 30 June 2019, and as at and for the financial year ended 31 December 2019. The selected consolidated financial information presented below has been derived from Altia’s unaudited business review as at and for the nine months ended 30 September 2020, including the unaudited comparative financial information for the nine months ended 30 September 2019, Altia’s unaudited consolidated half-year financial report as at and for the six months ended 30 June 2020 prepared in accordance with “IAS 34 – Interim Financial Reporting”, including the unaudited comparative financial information for the six months ended 30 June 2019, and Altia’s audited consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2019, prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the EU, all of which are incorporated by reference into this Merger Prospectus.

 

2)The following table is inserted to replace the table contained in the section entitled “Summary – What is the Key Financial Information Regarding the Issuer?” on page 3 of the Merger Prospectus:

 

  

As at and for the nine months ended 30 September2

  As at and for the six months ended 30 June    As at and for the year ended 31 December  
In EUR million, unless otherwise indicated  2020  2019  2020  2019    2019  
   (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (audited, unless otherwise indicated)  
Income statement and statement of comprehensive income                   
Net sales    235.9    249.5    149.3    165.0      359.6   
Operating result    13.7    9.8    9.2    4.5      25.1   
Comparable EBITDA    33.4    25.1    18.8    13.7      44.8   
Comparable EBITDA margin, %    14.2    10.1    12.6    8.3      12.41)  
Result for the period    10.5    8.0    7.5    4.0      18.4   
Earnings per share (basic and diluted), EUR    0.29    0.22    0.21    0.11      0.51   
Balance sheet                             
Total assets    N/A    N/A    428.9    387.7      400.2   
Total equity    N/A    N/A    149.5    137.6      151.2   
Net debt    37.4    81.4    29.9    81.3      28.91)  
Statement of cash flows                             
Net cash flow from operating activities    5.9    -0.8    10.3    -4.0      52.6   
Net cash flow from investing activities    N/A    N/A    -1.3    -2.2      -6.0   
Net cash flow from financing activities    N/A    N/A    29.9    -7.4      -23.9   

_____________________________

1)Unaudited.

2)Altia’s unaudited business review as at and for the nine months ended 30 September 2020 includes only certain financial information. Financial information not published in the unaudited business review as at and for the nine months ended 30 September 2020 is indicated with N/A.

 

 

3)The following text is inserted to replace the first paragraph of the section entitled “Summary – What is the Key Financial Information Regarding the Merging Company?” on page 4 of the Merger Prospectus:

 

The following table present selected consolidated financial information of Arcus as at and for the nine months periods ended 30 September 2020 and 30 September 2019, as at and for the six months periods ended 30 June 2020 and 30 June 2019, and as at and for the financial year ended 31 December 2019. The selected consolidated financial information presented below has been derived from Arcus’ unaudited consolidated interim financial report as at and for the nine months ended 30 September 2020 prepared in accordance with “IAS 34 – Interim Financial Reporting”, including the unaudited comparative financial information for the nine months ended 30 September 2019, Arcus’ unaudited consolidated half-year financial report as at and for the six months ended 30 June 2020 prepared in accordance with “IAS 34 – Interim Financial Reporting”, including the unaudited comparative financial information for the six months ended 30 June 2019, and Arcus’ audited consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2019,

 

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prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the EU, all of which are incorporated by reference into this Merger Prospectus.

 

4)The following table is inserted to replace the table contained in the section entitled “Summary – What is the Key Financial Information Regarding the Merging Company?” on page 5 of the Merger Prospectus:

 

   As at and for the nine months ended 30 September  As at and for the six months ended 30 June    As at and for the year ended 31 December  
In NOK million, unless otherwise indicated  2020  2019  2020  2019    2019  
   (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (audited)  
Income statement                             
Total operating revenue    2,196    1,901    1,378    1,250      2,763   
Adjusted EBITDA    338    225    186    129      397   
Adjusted EBITDA margin %    15.4%   11.8%   13.5%   10.3%     14.4%  
Adjusted operating result (EBIT)    244    136    123    75      277   
Adjusted operating margin %    11.1%   7.1%   8.9%   6.0%     10.0%  
Result for the period    115    44    82    8      133   
Earnings per share (NOK)    1.66    0.64    1.19    0.11      1.94   
Diluted earnings per share (NOK)    1.60    0.61    1.12    0.11      1.85   
Balance sheet                             
Total assets    5,895    5,050    6,011    4,991      5,590   
Total equity    1,786    1,584    1,741    1,521      1,662   
Total liabilities    4,109    3,466    4,270    3,470      3,928   
Statement of cash flows                             
Net cash flow from operating activities    408    139    519    -131      292   
Net cash flow from investing activities    -37    -12    -24    -7      -71   
Net cash flow from financing activities    -232    -236    -84    -198      -284   
                              

 

Supplements to the section “Tiivistelmä”

 

Due to the publication of the Business Review and the Interim Report, the section of the Merger Prospectus entitled “Tiivistelmä” is supplemented as follows:

 

1)The following text is inserted to replace the first paragraph of the section entitled “Tiivistelmä – Mitkä ovat liikkeeseenlaskijan keskeiset taloudelliset tiedot?” on page 11 of the Merger Prospectus:

 

Seuraavissa taulukoissa esitetään Altian valikoituja konsernitilinpäätöstietoja 30.9.2020 ja 30.9.2019 päättyneiltä yhdeksän kuukauden jaksoilta, Altian valikoituja konsernitilinpäätöstietoja 30.6.2020 ja 30.6.2019 päättyneiltä kuuden kuukauden jaksoilta sekä 31.12.2019 päättyneeltä tilikaudelta. Alla esitettävät valikoidut konsernitilinpäätöstiedot ovat peräisin 30.9.2020 päättyneeltä yhdeksän kuukauden jaksolta Altian tilintarkastamattomasta liiketoimintakatsauksesta, johon sisältyy vertailutietoina esitetyt tilintarkastamattomat konsernin taloudelliset tiedot 30.9.2019 päättyneeltä yhdeksän kuukauden jaksolta, 30.6.2020 päättyneeltä kuuden kuukauden jaksolta”IAS 34 – Osavuosikatsaukset” -standardin mukaisesti laaditusta Altian tilintarkastamattomasta puolivuosikatsauksesta, johon sisältyy vertailutietoina esitetyt tilintarkastamattomat konsernin taloudelliset tiedot 30.6.2019 päättyneeltä kuuden kuukauden jaksolta, ja EU:n käyttöön ottamien IFRS-standardien mukaisesti 31.12.2019 päättyneeltä tilikaudelta laaditusta Altian tilintarkastetusta konsernitilinpäätöksestä, jotka asiakirjat on sisällytetty tähän Sulautumisesitteeseen viittaamalla.

 

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2)The following table is inserted to replace the table contained in the section entitled “Tiivistelmä – Mitkä ovat liikkeeseenlaskijan keskeiset taloudelliset tiedot?” on page 12 of the Merger Prospectus:

 
  

1.1.–30.9. ja 30.9.2

  1.1.–30.6. ja 30.6.    1.1.–31.12. ja 31.12.  
Milj. euroa, ellei toisin ilmoitettu  2020  2019  2020  2019    2019  
   (tilintarkastamaton)  (tilintarkastamaton)    (tilintarkastettu, ellei toisin ole ilmoitettu)  
Tuloslaskelma ja laaja tuloslaskelma                             
Liikevaihto    235.9    249.5    149,3    165,0      359,6   
Liiketulos    13.7    9.8    9,2    4,5      25,1   
Vertailukelpoinen käyttökate    33.4    25.1    18,8    13,7      44,8   
Vertailukelpoinen käyttökateprosentti    14.2    10.1    12,6    8,3      12,41)  
Kauden tulos    10.5    8.0    7,5    4,0      18,4   
Osakekohtainen tulos (laimentamaton ja laimennusvaikutuksella oikaistu), euroa    0.29    0.22    0,21    0,11      0,51   
Tase                             
Varat yhteensä    N/A    N/A    428,9    387,7      400,2   
Oma pääoma yhteensä    N/A    N/A    149,5    137,6      151,2   
Nettovelka    37.4    81.4    29,9    81,3      28,91)  
Rahavirtalaskelma                             
Liiketoiminnan nettorahavirta    5.9    -0.8    10,3    -4,0      52,6   
Investointien nettorahavirta    N/A    N/A    -1,3    -2,2      -6,0   
Rahoituksen nettorahavirta    N/A    N/A    29,9    -7,4      -23,9   

_______________________

1)Tilintarkastamaton.

2)Altian tilintarkastamaton liiketoimintakatsaus 30.9.2020 päättyneeltä yhdeksän kuukauden jaksolta sisältää vain tiettyjä taloudellisia tietoja. Taloudelliset tiedot, joita ei ole julkaistu tilintarkastamattomassa liiketoimintakatsauksessa 30.9.2020 päättyneeltä yhdeksän kuukauden jaksolta, on merkitty tunnisteella N/A.

 

 

3)The following text is inserted to replace the first paragraph of the section entitled “Tiivistelmä – Mitkä ovat Sulautuvan Yhtiön keskeiset taloudelliset tiedot?” on page 13 of the Merger Prospectus:

 

Seuraavissa taulukoissa esitetään Arcuksen valikoituja konsernitilinpäätöstietoja 30.9.2020 ja 30.9.2019 päättyneiltä yhdeksän kuukauden jaksoilta, Arcuksen valikoituja konsernitilinpäätöstietoja 30.6.2020 ja 30.6.2019 päättyneiltä kuuden kuukauden jaksoilta sekä 31.12.2019 päättyneeltä tilikaudelta. Alla esitettävät valikoidut konsernitilinpäätöstiedot ovat peräisin ”IAS 34 – Osavuosikatsaukset” -standardin mukaisesti 30.9.2020 päättyneeltä yhdeksän kuukauden jaksolta laaditusta Arcuksen tilintarkastamattomasta osavuosikatsauksesta ja 30.6.2020 päättyneeltä kuuden kuukauden jaksolta laaditusta Arcuksen tilintarkastamattomasta puolivuosikatsauksesta, joihin sisältyy vertailutietoina esitetyt tilintarkastamattomat konsernin taloudelliset tiedot 30.9.2019 päättyneeltä yhdeksän kuukauden jaksolta ja 30.6.2019 päättyneeltä kuuden kuukauden jaksolta, ja EU:n käyttöön ottamien IFRS-standardien mukaisesti 31.12.2019 päättyneeltä tilikaudelta laaditusta Arcuksen tilintarkastetusta konsernitilinpäätöksestä, jotka asiakirjat on sisällytetty tähän Sulautumisesitteeseen viittaamalla.

 

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4)The following table is inserted to replace the table contained in the section entitled “Tiivistelmä – Mitkä ovat Sulautuvan Yhtiön keskeiset taloudelliset tiedot?” on page 14 of the Merger Prospectus:

 
   1.1.–30.9. ja 30.9.  1.1.–30.6. ja 30.6.    1.1.–31.12. ja 31.12.  
Milj. Norjan kruunua, ellei toisin ilmoitettu  2020  2019  2020  2019    2019  
   (tilintarkastamaton)  (tilintarkastamaton)    (tilintarkastettu)  
Tuloslaskelma                
Liikevaihto    2,196    1,901    1 378    1 250      2 763   
Oikaistu käyttökate    338    225    186    129      397   
Oikaistu käyttökatemarginaali, %    15.4%   11.8%   13,5%   10,3%     14,4%  
Oikaistu liiketulos (EBIT)    244    136    123    75      277   
Oikaistu liiketulosmarginaali, %    11.1%   7.1%   8,9%   6,0%     10,0%  
Kauden tulos    115    44    82    8      133   
Osakekohtainen tulos (NOK)    1.66    0.64    1,19    0,11      1,94   
Laimennusvaikutuksella oikaistu osakekohtainen tulos (NOK)    1.60    0.61    1,12    0,11      1,85   
Tase                             
Varat yhteensä    5,895    5,050    6 011    4 991      5 590   
Oma pääoma yhteensä    1,786    1,584    1 741    1 521      1 662   
Velat yhteensä    4,109    3,466    4 270    3 470      3 928   
Rahavirtalaskelma                             
Liiketoiminnan nettorahavirta    408    139    519    -131      292   
Investointien nettorahavirta    -37    -12    -24    -7      -71   
Rahoituksen nettorahavirta    -232    -236    -84    -198      -284   

 

Supplements to the section “Certain Matters”

 

Due to the publication of the Business Review and the Interim Report, the section of the Merger Prospectus entitled “Certain Matters – Presentation of Financial and Certain Other Information” is supplemented as follows:

 

1)The following texts are inserted to replace the sections entitled “Certain Matters - Presentation of Financial and Certain Other Information – Historical Financial Information of Altia” and “Certain Matters – Presentation of Financial and Certain Other Information – Historical Financial Information of Arcus”, respectively, on page 52 of the Merger Prospectus:

 

Historical Financial Information of Altia

 

The financial information of Altia included in this Merger Prospectus has been derived from Altia’s unaudited business review as at and for the nine months ended 30 September 2020, including the unaudited comparative financial information for the nine months ended 30 September 2019, Altia’s unaudited consolidated half-year financial report as at and for the six months ended 30 June 2020 prepared in accordance with “IAS 34 – Interim Financial Reporting”, including the unaudited comparative financial information for the six months ended 30 June 2019, and Altia’s audited consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2019, prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the EU, both of which are incorporated by reference into this Merger Prospectus.

 

Historical Financial Information of Arcus

 

The financial information of Arcus included in this Merger Prospectus has been derived from Arcus’ unaudited consolidated interim financial report as at and for the nine months ended 30 September 2020 prepared in accordance with “IAS 34 – Interim Financial Reporting”, including the unaudited comparative financial information for the nine months ended 30 September 2019, Arcus’ unaudited consolidated half-year financial report as at and for the six months ended 30 June 2020 prepared in accordance with “IAS 34 – Interim Financial Reporting”, including the unaudited comparative financial information for the six months ended 30 June 2019, and Arcus’ audited consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2019, prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the EU, both of which are incorporated by reference into this Merger Prospectus.

 

Supplements to the section “Information on the Combined Company”

 

The section of the Merger Prospectus entitled “Information on the Combined Company – Financing” is supplemented as follows:

 

1)The following sentence is inserted to replace the first sentence of the third paragraph in the section entitled “Information on the Combined Company – Financing” on page 73 of the Merger Prospectus:

 

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In accordance with the terms of the financing commitment and the terms agreed therein, Altia may enter into the Bridge Facility Agreement prior to the Effective Date and will utilise the facilities thereunder upon a failure to meet the terms of the waiver by Arcus.

 

Supplements to the section “Altia’s Capitalisation and Indebtedness”

 

Due to the publication of the Business Review, the section of the Merger Prospectus entitled “Altia’s Capitalisation and Indebtedness” is supplemented as follows:

 

1)The following sentence is inserted in the section entitled “Altia’s Capitalisation and Indebtedness” following the table on page 75 of the Merger Prospectus:

 

Altia’s net debt as at 30 September 2020 was EUR 37.4 million.

 

Supplements to the section “Selected Consolidated Financial Information”

 

Due to the publication of the Business Review and the Interim Report, the section of the Merger Prospectus entitled “Selected Consolidated Financial Information” is supplemented as follows:

 

1)The following texts are inserted to replace the first and the second paragraphs of the section entitled “Selected Consolidated Financial Information Selected Consolidated Financial Information of Altia” on page 76 of the Merger Prospectus:

 

The following tables present selected consolidated financial information of Altia as at and for the nine months periods ended 30 September 2020 and 30 September 2019, and as at and for the six months periods ended 30 June 2020 and 30 June 2019, and as at and for the financial year ended 31 December 2019. The selected consolidated financial information presented below has been derived from Altia’s unaudited business review as at and for the nine months ended 30 September 2020, including the unaudited comparative financial information for the nine months ended 30 September 2019, and unaudited consolidated half-year financial report as at and for the six months ended 30 June 2020 prepared in accordance with “IAS 34 – Interim Financial Reporting”, including the unaudited comparative financial information for the six months ended 30 June 2019, and Altia’s audited consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2019, prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the EU, all of which are incorporated by reference into this Merger Prospectus.

 

The selected consolidated financial information provided herein should be read together with “Certain matters – Presentation of Financial and Certain Other Information” and Altia’s audited consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2019, unaudited consolidated half-year financial report as at and for the six months ended on 30 June 2020 and unaudited business review as at and for the nine months ended 30 September 2020 incorporated by reference into this Merger Prospectus.

 

2)The following tables are inserted to replace the corresponding tables contained in the section entitled “Selected Consolidated Financial Information Selected Consolidated Financial Information of Altia” on pages 80 and 82 of the Merger Prospectus:

 

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Consolidated Segment Information

 

   For the nine months ended 30 September  For the six months ended 30 June    For the year ended 31 December  
   2020  2019  2020  2019    2019  
In EUR million  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (audited)  
                    
Net sales, external                             
Finland & Exports    82.8    90.9    53.0    59.6      128.6   
Scandinavia    77.5    76.3    50.1    50.7      120.7   
Altia Industrial    75.5    82.4    46.1    54.7      110.2   
Group net sales, external    235.9    249.5    149.3    165.0      359.6   
                              
Comparable EBITDA                             
Finland & Exports    13.8    13.3    8.3    8.2      20.6   
Scandinavia    4.7    3.0    2.8    1.7      12.1   
Altia Industrial    13.6    6.9    7.1    3.3      11.4   
Other    1.3    2.0    0.6    0.5      0.7   
Group comparable EBITDA    33.4    25.1    18.8    13.7      44.8   
Total items affecting comparability    -6.6    -1.8    -0.7    -0.2      -1.7   
Group EBITDA    26.8    23.3    18.0    13.5      43.1   
Depreciation, amortisation and impairment    -13.1    -13.5    -8.8    -9.0      -17.9   
Group operating result    13.7    9.8    9.2    4.5      25.1   
 

  

Financial Key Figures

 

  

As at and for the nine months ended 30 September2

  As at and for the six months ended 30 June    As at and for the year ended 31 December  
   2020  2019  2020  2019    2019  
In EUR million, unless otherwise indicated  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (unaudited, unless otherwise indicated)  
Net sales    235.9    249.5    149.3    165.0      359.61)  
Comparable EBITDA    33.4    25.1    18.8    13.7      44.81)  
Comparable EBITDA margin, %    14.2    10.1    12.6    8.3      12.4   
EBITDA    26.8    23.3    18.0    13.5      43.11)  
EBITDA margin, %    11.4    9.3    12.1    8.2      12.0   
Comparable operating result (EBIT)    20.3    11.6    9.9    4.7      26.8   
Comparable operating margin, %    8.6    4.7    6.7    2.9      7.5   
Operating result    13.7    9.8    9.2    4.5      25.11)  
Result before taxes    N/A    N/A    9.3    4.7      24.61)  
Result for the period    10.5    8.0    7.5    4.0      18.41)  
Items affecting comparability    -6.6    -1.8    -0.7    -0.2      -1.71)  
Cash and cash equivalents    N/A    N/A    101.2    27.7      64.21)  
Total equity    N/A    N/A    149.5    137.6      151.21)  
Borrowings    N/A    N/A    121.8    97.3      82.6   
Invested capital    N/A    N/A    271.3    234.9      233.8   
Return on equity (ROE), %    N/A    N/A    15.2    12.0      12.2   
Return on invested capital (ROI), %    N/A    N/A    9.3    8.0      8.5   
Net debt    37.4    81.4    29.9    81.3      28.9   
Gearing, %    24.5    57.9    20.0    59.1      19.1   
Equity ratio, %    37.1    37.4    34.9    35.5      37.8   
Net cash flow from operating activities    5.9    -0.8    10.3    -4.0      52.61)  
Net debt / Comparable EBITDA    0.7    2.0    0.6    2.0      0.6   
Earnings / share (Basic and diluted), EUR    0.29    0.22    0.21    0.11      0.511)  
Equity / share, EUR    N/A    N/A    4.14    3.81      4.18   
Number of outstanding shares at the end of the period (1,000 shares)    N/A    N/A    36,140,485    36,140,485      36,140,485   
Average number of personnel    652    693    651    701      682   

__________________________________

1)Audited.

 

2)Altia’s unaudited business review as at and for the nine months ended 30 September 2020 includes only certain financial information. Financial information not published in the unaudited business review as at and for the nine months ended 30 September 2020 is indicated with N/A.

 

 

8 

 

Reconciliation of Alternative Performance Measures

 

   For the nine months ended 30 September  For the six months ended 30 June    For the year ended 31 December  
   2020  2019  2020  2019    2019  
In EUR million, unless otherwise indicated  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (unaudited, unless otherwise indicated)  
Items affecting comparability                             
Net gains or losses from business and assets disposals       -0.2    —      -0.1      0.1   
Costs for closure of business operations and restructurings    -0.3    -0.1    -0.3    -0.1      -0.2   
Major corporate projects                              
Costs related to the closed voluntary pension scheme    -0.5    -1.6    -0.5    —        -1.6   
Costs related to the merger of Altia and Arcus    -5.9    —      —      —        —     
Total items affecting comparability    -6.6    -1.8    -0.7    -0.2      -1.71)  
                              
Comparable EBITDA                             
Operating result    13.7    9.8    9.2    4.5      25.11)  
Less:                             
    Depreciation, amortisation and impairment    13.1    13.5    8.8    9.0      17.91)  
    Total items affecting comparability    6.6    1.8    0.7    0.2      1.71)  
Comparable EBITDA    33.4    25.1    18.8    13.7      44.81)  
% of net sales    14.2    10.1    12.6    8.3      12.4   
                              
Comparable EBIT                              
Operating result    13.7    9.8    9.2    4.5      25.11)  
Less:                             
    Total items affecting comparability    6.6    1.8    0.7    0.2      1.71)  
Comparable EBIT    20.3    11.6    9.9    4.7      26.8   
% of net sales    8.6    4.7    6.7    2.9      7.5   

________________________

1)Unaudited.

 

 

3)The following texts are inserted to replace the first and the second paragraphs of the section entitled “Selected Consolidated Financial Information Selected Consolidated Financial Information of Arcus” on page 83 of the Merger Prospectus:

 

The following tables present selected consolidated financial information of Arcus as at and for the nine months periods ended 30 September 2020 and 30 September 2019, six months periods ended 30 June 2020 and 30 June 2019, and as at and for the financial year ended 31 December 2019. The selected consolidated financial information presented below has been derived from Arcus’ unaudited consolidated interim financial report as at and for the nine months ended 30 September 2020 prepared in accordance with “IAS 34 – Interim Financial Reporting”, including the unaudited comparative financial information for the nine months ended 30 September 2019, unaudited consolidated half-year financial report as at and for the six months ended 30 June 2020 prepared in accordance with “IAS 34 – Interim Financial Reporting”, including the unaudited comparative financial information for the six months ended 30 June 2019, and Arcus’ audited consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2019, prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the EU, all of which are incorporated by reference into this Merger Prospectus.

 

The selected consolidated financial information provided herein should be read together with “Certain matters – Presentation of Financial Information” and Arcus’ audited consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2019 and unaudited consolidated half-year financial report as at and for the six months ended on 30 June 2020 and unaudited consolidated interim financial report as at and for the nine months ended 30 September 2020 incorporated by reference into this Merger Prospectus.

 

9 

 

4)The following tables are inserted to replace the corresponding tables contained in the section entitled “Selected Consolidated Financial Information – Selected Consolidated Financial Information of Arcus” starting on page 83 of the Merger Prospectus:

 

Consolidated Income Statement

 

   For the nine months ended 30 September  For the six months ended 30 June    For the year ended 31 December  
   2020  2019  2020  2019    2019  
In NOK million, unless otherwise indicated  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (audited)  
Operating revenue and expenses                             
Sales revenue    2,161    1,867    1,354    1,228      2,710   
Other operating revenue    35    34    24    23      52   
Total operating revenue    2,196    1,901    1,378    1,250      2,763   
Net gain on sale of fixed assets    1    0    0    0      0   
Cost of sales    -1,263    -1,118    -800    -732      -1,601   
Salaries and other personnel costs    -368    -319    -241    -221      -439   
Depreciation and amortisation    -94    -90    -63    -53      -120   
Other operating expenses    -154    -156    -149    -169      -329   
Share of profit from associated companies and
jointly controlled Entities
   -2    0    -2    0      4   

Operating profit before other income and

expenses

   244    136    123    75      277   
Other income and expenses    -66    -15    -18    -13      -20   
Operating profit    178    121    105    62      258   
                              
Interest income    12    15    10    9      22   
Other financial income    931    191    901    141      30   
Interest costs    -641    -711    -471    -54      -99   
Other financial costs    -601    -281    -501    -211      -39   
Net financial profit / loss    -19    -65    3    -52      -85   
                              
Profit before tax    158    56    108    11      172   
Tax    -43    -12    -26    -3      -39   
Result for the period    115    44    82    8      133   
                              
Result for the period attributable to:                             
      Non-controlling interest    2    0    1    02      12   
      Owners of the parent    113    43    81    82      1322   
                              
Earnings per share (NOK)                             
      Earnings per share    1.66    0.64    1.19    0.11      1.94   
      Diluted earnings per share    1.60    0.61    1.12    0.11      1.85   

  

 

10 

 

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income

 

   For the nine months ended 30 September  For the six months ended 30 June    For the year ended 31 December
   2020  2019  2020  2019    2019
In NOK million  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (audited)
Profit for the year    115    44    82    8      133 
                            

Items that will not be reclassified against the

statement of income

                           
Estimate deviations, pensions    0    0    0    0      -2 
Tax on items that will not be reclassified against the
statement of income
   0    0    0    0      0 
Total    0    0    0    0      -2 
                            

Items that may be reclassified against the

statement of income

                           
Translation differences on translation of foreign
subsidiaries
   131    1    111    -24      -5 
Tax on items that may be reclassified against the
statement of income
   0    0    0    0      0 
Total    131    1    111    -24      -5 
                            
Total comprehensive income for the period    246    45    193    -16      127 
Total comprehensive income attributable to:                           
Non-controlling interest    2    0    1    -01      11 
Parent company shareholders    244    45    192    -151      1261 

__________________________________

1)Unaudited and restated. In the unaudited consolidated half-year financial report as at and for the six months ended 30 June 2020, Arcus has made a change regarding the presentation of the non-controlling interests’ share of profit, so that the profit shown in the income statement relates only to the non-controlling interests’ where there are no put options associated. The comparative figures for the year ended 31 December 2019 were also changed.

 

 

11 

 

Consolidated Balance Sheet

 

   As at 30 September  As at 30 June    As at 31 December
   2020  2019  2020  2019    2019
In NOK million  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (audited)
ASSETS                 
Intangible assets                           
Goodwill    1,116    1,037    1,106    1,025      1,048 
Brands    905    809    899    799      854 
Software    19    23    19    24      21 
Total intangible assets    2,040    1,869    2,024    1,849      1,923 
                            
Tangible assets                           
Tangible fixed assets    161    149    163    149      152 
Rights of use    1,224    1,268    1,239    1,047      1,279 
Total tangible fixed assets    1,385    1,417    1,402    1,196      1,431 
                            
Deferred tax assets    61    113    72    118      86 
Total financial assets    71    62    69    60      65 
Total fixed assets    3,558    3,460    3,567    3,222      3,506 
                            
Current assets                           
Inventories    610    506    583    496      487 
Receivables                            
Accounts receivables and other receivables    1,316    933    1,187    1,174      1,393 
Cash and cash equivalents    411    151    675    99      205 
Total current assets    2,337    1,589    2,445    1,769      2,084 
                            
TOTAL ASSETS    5,895    5,050    6,011    4,991      5,590 
                            
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES                           
Paid-in-equity                            
Share capital    1    1    1    1      1 
Share premium    771    772    771    771      771 
Total paid-in-equity    772    772    772    772      772 
Retained earnings                            
Other equity    1,014    812    969    749      890 
Total equity    1,786    1,584    1,741    1,521      1,662 
                            
Provisions                            
Deferred tax liability    119    102    117    100      101 
Pension obligations    19    21    19    21      24 
Liabilities at fair value through profit or loss    58    69    60    68      69 
Other provisions for liabilities    0    0    0    0      0 
Total provisions    196    193    196    189      194 
                            
Other non-current liabilities                           
Debt to financial institutions    786    691    776    685      704 
Lease obligations    1,193    1,222    1,203    1,017      1,151 
Other non-current liabilities    0    0    1    0      0 
Total other non-current liabilities    1,979    1,914    1,980    1,701      1,855 
                            
Total non-current liabilities    2,175    2,107    2,176    1,890      2,050 
                            
Current liabilities                            
Debt to financial institutions    0    0    0    180      0 
Lease obligations    72    67    72    49      154 
Trade payables    1,856    1,292    1,903    1,350      1,719 
Tax payable    7    0    7    0      5 
Dividend payable    0    0    113    0      0 
Total current liabilities    1,935    1,359    2,094    1,580      1,878 
                            
Total liabilities    4,109    3,466    4,270    3,470      3,928 
                            
TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES    5,895    5,050    6,011    4,991      5,590 

  

 

12 

 

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

 

   For the nine months ended 30 September  For the six months ended 30 June    For the year ended 31 December
   2020  2019  2020  2019    2019
In NOK million  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (audited)
                  
Cash flow from operating activities                           
Profit before taxes    158    56    108    11      172 
   Depreciation and amortisation    94    90    63    53      120 
Dividends received from associated companies
and jointly controlled entities
   1    0    1    0      0 
   Taxes paid    -34    -29    -22    -20      -35 
   Net interest in period    63    66    46    53      98 
   Other items without cash effects    11    -2    12    -9      -6 
   Change in inventories    -123    -65    -96    -55      -46 
   Change in trade receivables    100    421    223    175      -39 
   Change in tax payables    137    -398    184    -341      -27 
Net cash flow from operating activities    408    139    519    -131      292 
                            
Cash flow from investment activities                           
Proceeds from sale of tangible and intangible
fixed assets
   1    0    0    0      0 
Payments on acquisitions of tangible and
intangible fixed assets
   -25    -12    -20    -7      -20 
Payments on acquisitions of Brands    0    0    0    0      0 
Payments on acquisition of operations    0    0    0    0      -51 
Other investments    -13    0    -4    0      0 
Net cash flow from investing activities    -37    -12    -24    -7      -71 
                            
Cash flow from financing activities                           
Payouts - co-investment program    0    -2    0    -2      -2 
New debt to financial institutions    -3    0    -3    0      0 
Repayment on interest-bearing debt    -53    -49    -35    -24      -66 
Change other long term loans    0    1    0    1      1 
Interest paid in period    -63    -66    -46    -53      -97 
Paid dividend and Group contributions    -114    -116    -1    -116      -116 
Other financing payments    0    -3    0    -4      -3 
Net cash flow from financing activities    -232    -236    -84    -198      -284 
                            
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and
cash equivalents
   68    -23    60    -28      -15 
                            
Net change in cash and cash equivalents    206    -132    470    -365      -78 
Holdings of cash and cash equivalents as of
beginning of period
   205    283    205    283      283 

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the

period

   411    151    675    -82      205 

  

 

13 

 

Consolidated Segment Information

 

   For the nine months ended 30 September  For the six months ended 30 June    For the year ended 31 December
   2020  2019  2020  2019    2019
In NOK million  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (unaudited, unless otherwise indicated)
In NOK million                           
Total operating revenues, external                           
Wine    1,372    1,149    870    769      1,594 
Spirits    544    509    332    323      822 
Logistics    247    212    156    139      303 
Other and eliminations    33    32    20    20      44 
Group total operating revenues, external    2,196    1,901    1,378    1,250      2,763 
                            
Adjusted EBITDA                           
Wine    177    105    99    64      161 
Spirits    97    61    48    30      147 
Logistics    9    4    3    -1      13 
Unallocated and adjustments, incl. IFRS16 effects    -11    40    18    23      56 
Group EBITDA    272    210    168    116      377 
Total adjustments    66    15    18    13      20 
Group adjusted EBITDA    338    225    186    129      397 
Depreciation and amortisation    94    90    63    53      120 
Group adjusted operating result    244    136    123    75      258 

  

Financial Key Figures

 

   As at and for the nine months ended 30 September  As at and for the six months ended 30 June    As at and for the year ended 31 December
   2020  2019  2020  2019    2019
In NOK million, unless otherwise indicated  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (unaudited, unless otherwise indicated)
Total operating revenue    2,196    1,901    1,378    1,250      2,7631)
Adjusted EBITDA    338    225    186    129      397 
Adjusted EBITDA margin, %    15.4%   11.8%   13.5%   10.3%     14.4%
EBITDA    272    210    168    116      377 
EBITDA margin, %    12.4%   11.1%   12.2%   9.3%     13.7%
Adjusted operating result (EBIT)    244    136    123    75      277 
Adjusted operating margin, %    11.1%   7.1%   8.9%   6.0%     10.0%
Operating result    178    121    105    63      2581)
Result before taxes    158    56    108    11      1731)
Result for the period    115    44    82    8      1331)
Items affecting comparability    66    15    18    13      20 
Cash and cash equivalents    411    151    675    99      2051)
Total equity    1,786    1,584    1,741    1,521      1,6621)
Net debt    1,644    1,833    1,381    1,836      1,807 
Equity ratio, %    30.3%   31.4%   29.0%   30.5%     29.7%
Net cash flow from operating activities    408    139    519    -131      2921)
Earnings / share (Basic and diluted), NOK    1.66 (1.60)    0.64 (0.61)    1.19 (1.12)    0.11 (0.11)      1.94 (1.85)1) 
Number of outstanding shares at the end of the period (1,000 shares)    68,023    68,023    68,023    68,023      68,023 

_________________________

1)Audited.

 

14 

 

Reconciliation of Alternative Performance Measures

 

   For the nine months ended 30 September  For the six months ended 30 June    For the year ended 31 December
   2020  2019  2020  2019    2019
In NOK million, unless otherwise indicated  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (unaudited, unless otherwise indicated)
Adjustments                 
Personnel policy and other organisational measures    16    9    4    9      9 
Other transaction costs    51    6    14    5      10 
Other non-recurring items                          1 
Total adjustments    66    15    18    13      20 
                            
Adjusted EBITDA                           
Operating result    178    121    105    62      2581)
Less:                           
    Depreciation, amortisation and impairment    94    90    63    53      1201)
    Total adjustments    66    15    18    13      20 
Adjusted EBITDA    338    225    186    129      397 
% of total operating revenue    15.4%   11.8%   13.5%   10.3%     14.4%
                            
Adjusted EBIT                           
Operating result    178    121    105    62      2581)
Less:                           
    Total adjustments    66    15    18    13      20 
Adjusted EBIT    244    136    123    75      277 
% of total operating revenue    11.1%   7.1%   8.9%   6.0%     10.0%

 

Supplements to the section “Information on Altia”

 

Due to the publication of the Business Review, the section of the Merger Prospectus entitled “Information on Altia” is supplemented as follows:

 

1)The following texts and tables are inserted to replace the tables contained in the section entitled “Information on Altia Business of Altia – Overview of the Business” on pages 102–103 of the Merger Prospectus:

 

The following table presents a selection of Altia’s key performance indicators for the nine months ended 30 September 2020 and 30 September 2019, six months ended 30 June 2020 and 30 June 2019, and for the year ended 31 December 2019. See “Certain matters Presentation of Financial and Certain Other Information Historical Financial Information of Altia” and “Selected Consolidated Financial Information Selected Consolidated Financial Information of Altia Financial key figures” for further information on the calculation of Altia’s key performance indicators.

 

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   For the nine months ended 30 September  For the six months ended 30 June    For the year ended 31 December
   2020  2019  2020  2019    2019
In EUR million, unless otherwise indicated  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (audited, unless otherwise indicated)
Net sales    235.9    249.5    149.3    165.0      359.6 
Operating result    13.7    9.8    9.2    4.5      25.1 
Comparable EBITDA2)    33.4    25.1    18.8    13.7      44.8 
Comparable EBITDA, %2)    14.2    10.1    12.6    8.3      12.41)

___________________________

1)Unaudited.
2)Alternative performance measure. See “Selected Consolidated Financial Information – Selected Consolidated Financial Information of Altia – Reconciliation of Alternative Performance Measures.

  

The following table presents external net sales of Altia by business segment for the nine months ended 30 September 2020 and 30 September 2019, six months ended 30 June 2020 and 30 June 2019, and for the year ended 31 December 2019.

 

   For the nine months ended 30 September  For the six months ended 30 June    For the year ended 31 December
   2020  2019  2020  2019    2019
In EUR million, unless otherwise indicated  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (audited)
Finland & Exports    82.8    90.9    53.0    59.6      128.6 
Scandinavia    77.5    76.3    50.1    50.7      120.7 
Altia Industrial    75.5    82.4    46.1    54.7      110.2 
Total    235.9    249.5    149.3    165.0      359.6 

 

 

The following table presents Altia’s net sales by product category for the nine months ended 30 September 2020 and 30 September 2019, for the six months ended 30 June 2020 and 30 June 2019, and for the year ended 31 December 2019.

 

   For the nine months ended 30 September  For the six months ended 30 June    For the year ended 31 December
   2020  2019  2020  2019    2019
In EUR million  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (audited)
Spirits    83.8    85.6    53.2    56.3      121.3 
Wine    74.9    79.1    48.8    52.3      124.9 
Other beverages    1.7    2.5    1.2    1.7      3.1 
Industrial products and services    75.5    82.4    46.1    54.7      110.2 
Total    235.9    249.5    149.3    165.0      359.6 

 

2)The following section is inserted to replace the section entitled “Information on Altia – Outlook and Trend Information – Outlook” on page 117 of the Merger Prospectus:

 

Outlook

 

This section “Outlook” contains forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of Altia’s future financial performance. Altia’s actual result or financial position may differ in a material way from the result or financial position contained in or implied by the forward-looking statements. This may be due to several factors, which are described, among others, in sections “Risk factors” and “Certain Matters – Forward-looking statements”. This section “Outlook” concerns Altia as a separate company and should not be interpreted or construed to concern the Combined Company after the Effective Date. Undue reliance should not be placed on these forward-looking statements.

 

  

 

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Market outlook

 

The development of Altia’s business operations and profitability are affected by the competitive environment, the overall economic outlook and changes in alcohol taxation and regulation. Uncertainty related to changes in consumer buying behaviour and consumer demand continues. In addition, overall fluctuations of direct product costs affect Altia’s profitability.

 

Uncertainty in the economy and operating environment is high and the risk of an economic slowdown is high. The recovery of the market depends on the level and extent of governmental restrictions and recommendations on travelling, movement and social distancing, and how these restrictions impact consumer behaviour. The pace of recovery is difficult to estimate and it is affected by changes in consumer behaviour and is expected to vary across sales channels.

 

Guidance

 

Altia’s guidance for 2020 was suspended on 29 April 2020 due to the uncertainties related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the uncertainties, Altia provided an updated guidance for 2020 on 6 November 2020. Following the strong profitability development during the first nine months of the year, Altia expects comparable EBITDA for 2020 to be higher than in 2019 (2019: EUR 44.8 million).

 

Towards the rest of the year, the uncertainties related to COVID-19 have escalated and the negative impacts on Altia’s last and most important quarter are expected to be substantial. The restrictions on social gatherings will limit the festive season and hence impact negatively the Christmas sales. Especially in Scandinavia, the sales volumes of glögg and aquavit are expected to be lower than in the previous year. Further, the significant negative impact on sales in travel retail is expected to continue.

 

In Altia Industrial, the escalated uncertainties relate to the decreased demand for starch, the tight situation on the ethanol market, the lower contract manufacturing volumes and the expected higher cost base due to increased barley cost.

 

Basis of the guidance

 

Altia’s guidance is based on the estimates and assumptions made by Altia’s management as regards the development of Altia’s net sales, EBITDA and operating environment. The guidance is based on market forecasts of alcohol beverages, which Altia utilises especially when formulating long-term forecasts. It is also based on the volume development, in particular with respect to Altia’s core brands, and the growth expectations on innovations, partner business as well as exports and travel retail.

 

The key factors affecting net sales and operating profit, in which Altia can affect, are product portfolio management, pricing, product quality, innovation and new products, functioning of the logistics, knowledge, capabilities and resources to create successful partnerships, continuous monitoring of costs and efficiency, as well as the ability to foresee and respond to changing consumer preferences and demand.

 

Factors beyond Altia’s control are mainly related to restrictions and instructions from governments and health authorities due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the competitors’ actions, general economic development and the consumer confidence that may affect demand in both consumer products and industrial products. In addition to these factors, failure to reach the expected sales set for the most significant products for reasons independent of Altia or termination of the cooperation with the largest partners may affect Altia’s expected results in the short term. Also other general risk factors in the industry and business, the availability and fluctuation in prices of raw materials due to crop seasons and weather conditions, fluctuation in the consumer demand of the products, currency exchange fluctuations as well as regulatory and tax changes are also beyond Altia’s control.

 

Altia’s guidance has been drafted and prepared on a basis which is comparable to Altia’s historical financial information and which is consistent with Altia’s accounting policies.

 

Supplements to the section “Information on Arcus”

 

Due to the publication of the Interim Report, the section of the Merger Prospectus entitled “Information on Arcus” is supplemented as follows:

 

1)The following tables are inserted to replace the tables contained in the section entitled “Information on Arcus Business of Arcus – Overview of the Business” on pages 132133 of the Merger Prospectus:

 

The following table presents a selection of Arcus’ key performance indicators for the nine months ended 30 September 2020 and 30 September 2019, six months ended 30 June 2020 and 30 June 2019, and for the year ended 31 December 2019. See “Certain matters Presentation of Financial and Certain Other Information Historical Financial Information

 

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of Arcus” and “Selected Consolidated Financial Information Selected Consolidated Financial Information of Arcus Financial key figures” for further information on the calculation of Arcus’ key performance indicators.

 
   For the nine months ended 30 September  For the six months ended 30 June    For the year ended 31 December
   2020  2019  2020  2019    2019
In NOK million, unless otherwise indicated  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (unaudited, unless otherwise indicated)
Total operating revenue    2,196    1,901    1,378    1,250      2,7631)
Operating result    178    121    105    62      2581)
Adjusted EBITDA2)    338    225    186    129      397 
Adjusted EBITDA, %2)    15.4    11.8    13.5    10.3      14.4 

___________________

1)Audited.
2)Alternative performance measure. See “Selected Consolidated Financial Information Selected Consolidated Financial Information of Arcus Reconciliation of Alternative Performance Measures.

  

 

The following table presents the total operating revenue of Arcus by country for the nine months ended 30 September 2020 and 30 September 2019, six months ended 30 June 2020 and 30 June 2019, and for the year ended 31 December 2019.

 

   For the nine months ended 30 September  For the six months ended 30 June    For the year ended 31 December 2019
   2020  2019  2020  2019     
In NOK million  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (audited)
Norway    1,030    755    634    490      1,125 
Sweden    824    788    526    533      1,075 
Finland    186    154    123    100      227 
Denmark    95    88    60    61      156 
Germany    30    27    16    13      57 
USA    5    3    2    2      5 
DFTR    24    84    16    51      112 
Other international    2    3    2    1      6 
Total    2,196    1,901    1,378    1,250      2,763 

 

2)The following tables are inserted to replace the table contained in the section entitled “Information on Arcus Business of Arcus – Business Areas” on page 137 of the Merger Prospectus:

 

The following table presents the total operating revenue of Arcus by business segment for the nine months ended 30 September 2020 and 30 September 2019, six months ended 30 June 2020 and 30 June 2019, and for the year ended 31 December 2019.

 
   For the nine months ended 30 September  For the six months ended 30 June    For the year ended 31 December 2019
   2020  2019  2020  2019     
In NOK million  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)  (unaudited)    (audited)
Wine    1,379    1,154    875    772      1,603 
Spirits    716    614    437    390      976 
Logistics    267    230    168    150      328 
Eliminations   -166    -97    -102    -62      -144 
Total    2,196    1,901    1,378    1,250      2,763 

  

 

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Supplements to the section “Information Incorporated by Reference into this Merger Prospectus”

 

Due to the publication of the Business Review and the Interim Report, the section of the Merger Prospectus entitled “Information Incorporated by Reference into this Merger Prospectus” is supplemented as follows:

 

1)The following text is inserted as the first bullet point under the section “Documents Incorporated by Reference into this Merger Prospectus – Altia”:

 

·Altia’s unaudited business review as at and for the nine months ended 30 September 2020;

 

2)The following text is inserted as the first bullet point under the section “Documents Incorporated by Reference into this Merger Prospectus – Arcus”:

 

·Arcus’ unaudited interim financial report as at and for the nine months ended 30 September 2020;

 

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IMPORTANT INFORMATION

 

In a number of jurisdictions, in particular in Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan and South Africa, the distribution of this Supplement may be subject to restrictions imposed by law (such as registration, admission, qualification and other regulations). No Merger Consideration Shares have been, or will be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”) or the securities laws of any state of the United States (as such term is defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) and may not be offered, sold or delivered, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States absent registration, except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and in compliance with any applicable state and other securities laws of the United States. This Supplement does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy any of the shares in the United States. In addition to Finland, Norway and the United States, no action has been or will be taken by Altia or Arcus to permit the possession or distribution of the Supplement (or any other offering or publicity materials or application form(s) relating to the Merger) in any jurisdiction where such distribution may otherwise lead to a breach of any law or regulatory requirement. Altia advises persons into whose possession this Supplement comes to inform themselves of and observe all possible applicable restrictions. The Merger Consideration Shares will be offered and sold in the United States in connection with the Merger in reliance upon the exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act provided by Rule 802 thereunder, see “Notice to Shareholders in the United States” below.

 

Neither the Supplement, any notification nor any other merger material may be distributed or published in any jurisdiction except under circumstances that will result in compliance with any applicable laws and regulations. Neither Altia, Arcus nor financial advisors of Altia and Arcus accept any legal responsibility for persons who have obtained the Supplement in violation of these restrictions, irrespective of whether these persons are prospective recipients of the Merger Consideration Shares. No actions have been taken to register or qualify the Merger Consideration Shares for public offer in any jurisdiction other than Finland, Norway and the United States.

 

Any disputes arising in connection with this Supplement will be settled exclusively by a court of competent jurisdiction in Finland. Investors must not construe the contents of this Supplement as legal, investment or tax advice. Each investor should consult such investor’s own counsel, accountant or business advisor as to legal, investment and tax advice and related matters pertaining to the Merger.

 

Nordea Bank Abp is acting exclusively for Altia in connection with the Merger and for no one else and will not be responsible to anyone other than Altia for providing the protections afforded to its clients or for providing advice in relation to the Merger. ABG Sundal Collier ASA is acting exclusively for Arcus in connection with the Merger and for no one else and will not be responsible to anyone other than Arcus for providing the protections afforded to its clients or for providing advice in relation to the Merger.

 

Notice to Shareholders in the United States

 

The Merger Consideration Shares have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act and are being issued in reliance on the exemption from registration set forth in Rule 802 under the U.S. Securities Act. Altia is a Finnish company and Arcus is a Norwegian company. The Merger, including the information distributed in connection with the Merger and the related shareholder votes, is subject to disclosure, timing and procedural requirements of a non-U.S. country, which are different from those of the United States. The financial information included or referred to in this Supplement has been prepared in accordance with IFRS, which may not be comparable to the accounting standards, financial statements or financial information of U.S. companies or applicable in the United States.

 

It may be difficult for U.S. shareholders of Arcus to enforce their rights and any claim they may have arising under U.S. federal or state securities laws, since Altia and Arcus are not located in the United States, and all or some of their officers and directors are residents of non-U.S. jurisdictions. It may be difficult to compel a foreign company and its affiliates to subject themselves to a U.S. court’s judgment. U.S. shareholders of Arcus may not be able to sue Altia or Arcus or their respective officers and directors in a non-U.S. court for violations of U.S. laws, including federal securities laws, or at the least it may prove to be difficult to evidence such claims. Further, it may be difficult to compel Altia or Arcus and their affiliates to subject themselves to the jurisdiction of a U.S. court. In addition, there is substantial doubt as to the enforceability in a foreign country in original actions, or in actions for the enforcement of judgments of U.S. courts, based on the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal securities laws.

 

Arcus’ shareholders should be aware that Altia is prohibited from purchasing Arcus’ shares otherwise than under the Merger, such as in open market or privately negotiated purchases, at any time during the pendency of the Merger under the Merger Plan.

 

The Merger Consideration Shares have not been and will not be listed on a U.S. securities exchange or quoted on any inter-dealer quotation system in the United States. Neither Altia nor Arcus intends to take any action to facilitate a market in the Merger Consideration Shares in the United States. The Merger Consideration Shares have not been approved or disapproved by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, any state securities commission in the United States or any other regulatory authority in the United States, nor have any of the foregoing authorities passed comment upon, or endorsed the merit of, the Merger or the adequacy of this document. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offence in the United States.

 

Notice to Shareholders in the United Kingdom

 

This Supplement is for distribution only to persons who (i) have professional experience in matters relating to investments falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (as amended, the “Financial Promotion Order”), (ii) are persons falling within Article 43 of the Financial Promotion Order (for example as shareholders in Arcus entitled to receive the merger consideration shares pursuant to the Norwegian Public Limited Liability Companies Act of 13 June 1997 No. 45, (iii) are persons falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) ("high net worth companies, unincorporated associations etc.") of the Financial Promotion Order, (iv) are outside the United Kingdom, or (v) are persons to whom an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000) in connection with the issue or sale of the Merger Consideration Shares may otherwise lawfully be communicated or caused to be communicated (all such persons together being referred to as "Relevant Persons"). This Supplement is directed only at Relevant Persons and must not be acted on or relied on by persons who are not relevant persons. Any investment or investment activity to which this document relates is available only to Relevant Persons and will be engaged in only with Relevant Persons.

 

Notice to Shareholders in the European Economic Area

 

This Supplement has been prepared on the basis that any offer of the Merger Consideration Shares in any Member State of the European Economic Area (“EEA”) other than offers (the “Permitted Public Offers”) which are made prior to the Effective Date, and which are contemplated in the Supplement in Finland or Norway once the Supplement has been approved by the competent authority in Finland and published in accordance with the Prospectus Regulation, and in respect of which Altia has consented in writing to the use of the Supplement, will be made pursuant to an exemption under the Prospectus Regulation from the requirement to publish a prospectus for offers of the Merger Consideration Shares. Accordingly any person making or intending to make an offer in that Member State of the Merger Consideration Shares which are the subject of the offer contemplated in this

 

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Merger Prospectus, other than the Permitted Public Offers, may only do so in circumstances in which no obligation arises for Altia to publish a prospectus pursuant to Article 3 of the Prospectus Regulation or supplement a prospectus pursuant to Article 23 of the Prospectus Regulation, in each case, in relation to such offer. Altia has not authorised, nor does it authorise, the making of any offer (other than Permitted Public Offers) of the Merger Consideration Shares in circumstances in which an obligation arises for Altia to publish or supplement a prospectus for such offer.

 

In relation to each Member State of the EEA, with effect from and including 21 July 2019 (the “Prospectus Regulation Applicability Date”) no offer has been made and will not be made (other than a Permitted Public Offer) of the Merger Consideration Shares which are the subject of the offering contemplated by this Supplement to the public in that Member State, except that, with effect from and including the Prospectus Regulation Applicability Date, an offer of such Merger Consideration Shares is made to the public in that Member State:

 

a) to any legal entity which is a qualified investor as defined in the Prospectus Regulation;

 

b) to fewer than 150 natural or legal persons (other than qualified investors as defined in the Prospectus Regulation), as permitted under the Prospectus Regulation, subject to obtaining the prior consent of Altia for any such offer; or

 

c) in any other circumstances falling within Article 1(4) of the Prospectus Regulation,

 

provided that no offer of the Merger Consideration Shares is made which would require Altia to publish a prospectus pursuant to Article 3 of the Prospectus Regulation or supplement a prospectus pursuant to Article 23 of the Prospectus Regulation.

 

In this section, the expression an offer of the Merger Consideration Shares to the public in relation to any Merger Consideration Shares in any Member State means the communication in any form and by any means of sufficient information on the terms of the offer and the Merger Consideration Shares to be offered so as to enable an investor to decide to purchase or subscribe to the Merger Consideration Shares, as the same may be varied in that Member State by any measure implementing the Prospectus Regulation in that Member State.

 

The expression “Prospectus Regulation” means Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (as amended), and includes any relevant implementing measure in the EEA Member State concerned.

 

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