Annual Report 2008 - Wacker Neuson Group
Transcription
Annual Report 2008 - Wacker Neuson Group
Wacker Neuson SE Annual Report 2008 Markets in motion. Strategy in place. Wacker Neuson SE Preussenstrasse 41 80809 Munich Germany Tel. + 49 - (0)89 - 354 02 - 0 Fax + 49 - (0)89 - 354 02 - 390 www.wackerneuson.com 0988070|04-2009|Layout KC|Print pd Annual Report 2008 Key figures 2008 20072 1 742.1 17.3% 100.9 117.0 - 13.7% EBIT 58.0 78.9 - 26.5% Profit for the period 37.4 54.1 - 30.9% 3,665 3,659 0.2% Sales 870.3 EBITDA Number of employees Change 1 Forecast exceeded. With sales totaling EUR 870.3 million (forecast: EUR 870 million) and an EBITDA margin of 11.6 percent (forecast: 11 percent), Wacker Neuson has exceeded its targets for fiscal 2008. This 17.3 percent rise in sales was primarily fuelled by the company’s merger; profit for the period is a more realistic indication of overall market trends. For further information on key fi gures refer to pages 2-3. With PPA 2 Including Q4 Neuson Kramer subgroup Highlights 2008 Construction industry During the course of 2008, we were able to further consolidate the market position of our Wacker Neuson and Kramer Allrad brands and successfully launch a number of new products worldwide. We particularly focused our efforts here on introducing compact equipment via our global sales and service network. However, the pronounced downturn in the global economy also had a negative impact on national construction industries in 2008, in particular in the US and Europe. As a result, 2008 also saw us implement various action plans to row against the crisis. Agriculture 2008 was a good year for the European agricultural industry. Experts predict that the world population will continue to grow, fuelling increased demand for food and the need for larger holdings, which was good news for the agricultural industry – and for the Wacker Neuson Group. Around 10 percent of Group sales were generated in the agricultural sector mainly with our Weidemann-brand products. Wacker Neuson Magazine MAGAZINE Issue 1/2009 All-in-one Diversity Sustainability One-stop shopping for products, services and financing. The right tool for the job. Energy-efficient manufacturing processes at new Kramer plant. The 2008 Annual Report is accompanied by the first issue of our Wacker Neuson Magazine. Aimed at investors, customers, business partners – in fact anyone interested in finding out more about the company, this publication will give readers a regular and interesting look behind the scenes at Wacker Neuson. This issue gives you the low-down on the benefits of our high-quality products, reports on how Wacker Neuson bundles competencies to make the most of the synergies created by the merger, and looks at how we have aligned cost-saving measures with environmental protection. Innovating rebar tying Wacker Neuson launches new, powerful rebar tier. If you would like to receive a copy of the magazine by post or e-mail, simply drop us a line at: magazine@wackerneuson.com 130 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Publishing Details/Financial Calendar Contact Publishing Details Wacker Neuson SE Issued by: To our Shareholders Figures at a glance |2 Management |4 Foreword by Management |5 Special report: Sound strategy for times of crisis |8 Report by Supervisory Board | 10 Corporate Governance | 16 Investor Relations | 23 Group Structure | 28 Group Management Report | 29 Consolidated Financial Statements | 70 Further Information Wacker Neuson SE, Imre Szerdahelyi Corporate Communication department Glossaries | 124 Additional tables | 128 Publishing Details/Financial Calendar | 130 Head of Corporate Communication Preussenstrasse 41 Concept & design: 80809 Munich Kirchhoff Consult AG, Munich, Germany Germany Content: Phone +49 - (0)89 - 354 02 - 251 Fax +49 - (0)89 - 354 02 - 203 Wacker Neuson SE Joachim Weber, Frankfurt, Germany ir@wackerneuson.com Print: www.wackerneuson.com p d peschke druck, Munich, Germany Financial Calendar 2009 March 30, 2009 Publication of financial results 2008, press conference May 14, 2009 Publication of first-quarter report 2009, analyst conference May 28, 2009 AGM, Munich, Germany August 13, 2009 Publication of half-year report 2009 November 11, 2009 Publication of nine-month 2009 All rights reserved. Valid March 2009. Wacker Neuson SE accepts no liability for the accuracy and completeness of information provided in this brochure. Reprint only with the written approval of Wacker Neuson SE in Munich, Germany. The German version shall govern in all instances. In the event of discrepancies between the German and the English version, the German version shall prevail. Our business segments Light Equipment Compact Equipment Services With the business fields: With the product groups: With the business fields: Concrete technology Track and mobile excavators Service Soil and asphalt compaction Wheel loaders Rental Demolition Telehandlers (Central and Eastern Europe)1 Utility Skid-steer loaders Dumpers 1 In countries where we are not in direct competition with our key accounts. 2 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Additional tables Figures at a glance 2008 Wacker Neuson Group Wacker Neuson Group at December 31 Overview of PPA1 in € million 2008 2007 2006 in € K Jan. 1– Purchase price Jan. 1– Jan. 1– Jan. 1– Dec. 31, 2008 allocation Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 20072 Dec. 31, 2007 with PPA with PPA with PPA1 including Q4 (without PPA) Neuson Kramer 870.3 742.1 619.3 Europe 676.2 520.7 391.1 Americas 166.9 196.1 205 27.2 25.3 23.2 Light Equipment 329.3 405.3 388.3 Compact Equipment 353.7 178.2 87.5 Profit before interest and tax (EBIT) 64,102 Services 187.3 158.6 143.5 Financial result 100.9 (102.2) 117.0 (119.6) 100.2 Profit before tax (EBT) Depreciation and amortization (without PPA) 43.0 (38.1) 38.1 23.6 Taxes on income EBIT (without PPA) 58.0 (64.1) 78.9 (90.4) 76.7 Profit before disc. operations, 55.7 78.2 76.2 37.4 (41.9) 54.1 (62.0) 48.5 3,665 3,659 2,837 pro-forma without PPA Key figures Sales Cost of sales by region Asia Gross profit EBT Profit for the period (without PPA) Number of employees Earnings per share in € 0.53 1.10 1.19 Dividends per share in € 0.193 0.50 0.62 Key profit figures Gross profit in % EBITDA margin as a % (without PPA) 296,063 - 2,617 870,331 742,062 979,534 - 576,885 - 459,530 - 633,080 293,446 282,532 346,454 - 156,486 - 140,090 - 153,542 - 21,896 - 3,161 - 25,056 - 20,810 - 26,719 General administrative expenses - 53,152 - 335 - 53,487 - 48,289 - 60,505 Other expenses minority interests 11,023 11,023 8,421 11,042 - 11,451 - 11,451 - 2,859 - 4,098 - 6,113 57,989 78,905 112,632 - 1,996 - 312 - 2,308 - 660 - 2,178 62,106 - 6,425 55,681 78,245 110,454 - 19,401 1,825 - 17,576 - 24,142 - 34,928 42,705 - 4,600 38,105 54,103 75,526 0 0 -3 0 Result from discontinued operations - 833 117 - 716 23 - 484 Profit for the period 41,872 - 4,483 37,389 54,126 75,039 Depreciation and amortization 38,136 4,818 42,954 38,081 44,783 102,238 - 1,295 100,943 116,986 157,415 Minority interests EBITDA 1 33.7 38.1 41.3 11.6 (11.7) 15.8 (16.1) 16.2 6.7 (7.4) 10.6 (12.2) 12.4 Long-term assets 750.0 697.0 229.2 Current assets 428.6 517.5 245.8 Equity 911.8 912.7 282.4 59.0 - 43.1 45.1 266.8 301.8 192.6 77.4 75.2 59.5 303.9 273.2 158.6 EBIT margin as a % (without PPA) - 2,617 Research and development expenses Other income Share - 574,268 - 156,486 Sales and service expenses by business segment2 EBITDA (without PPA) 870,331 Revenue with PPA PPA = Purchase price allocation. Purchase price allocation describes the process where purchase costs resulting from acquisitions are allocated to individually acquired assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities, which are measured at fair value. 2 Incl. Q4 Neuson Kramer subgroup Key figures from the balance sheet Net financial debt Liabilities Equity ratio as a % Working capital 6-Year-Comparison1 in ¤ million Sales EBITDA (margin as a %) EBIT (margin as a %) Cash flow Cash flow from operating activities 31.1 55.0 Cash flow from investing activities - 9.5 - 141.8 - 41.6 Cash flow from financing activities - 21.9 96.4 - 23.0 Free cash flow 23.4 62.1 Profit for the period 49.1 Equity Balance sheet total 22.6 1 PPA = Purchase price allocation. Purchase price allocation describes the process where purchase costs resulting from acquisitions are allocated to individually acquired assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities, which are measured at fair value. 2 Consolidated sales after discounts. 3 Dividend payment proposed at the AGM on May 28, 2009. 1 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 870.3 742.1 619.3 503.2 411.2 361.9 100.9 (11.6) 117.0 (15.8) 100.2 (16.2) 70.3 (14.0) 60.5 (14.7) 48.2 (13.3) 58.0 (6.7) 78.9 (10.6) 76.7 (12.4) 50.7 (10.1) 41.9 (10.2) 29.0 (8.0) 37.4 54.1 48.5 31.3 25.7 21.4 911.8 912.7 282.4 289.9 246.3 284.6 1,178.6 1,214.5 475.0 443.1 315.1 345.0 Equity ration as a % 77.4 75.2 59.5 65.4 78.2 82.5 Capital expenditure 101.8 84.0 31.9 37.6 20.6 17.3 Number of employees 3,665 3,659 2,837 2,630 2,224 2,168 All figures prepared according to IFRS 129 Figures at a glance Additional information1 in € million 2008 2008 2008 2007 2007 pro-forma without PPA2 PPA with PPA with PPA3 with PPA4 Sales 870.3 – 870.3 742.1 979.5 EBITDA 102.2 1.3 100.9 117.0 157.4 EBITDA margin as a % 11.7 – 11.6 15.8 16.1 EBIT 64.1 6.1 58.0 78.9 112.6 EBIT margin as a % 7.4 – 6.7 10.6 11.5 Profit for the period 41.9 4.5 37.4 54.1 75.0 1 You will find more information in the tables on pages 128-129. PPA = Purchase price allocation. Purchase price allocation describes the process where purchase costs resulting from acquisitions are allocated to individually acquired assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities, which are measured at fair value. 3 Including Q4 Neuson Kramer subgroup (start of consolidation: October 1, 2007). 4 Pro-forma figures: as if Wacker and Neuson Kramer subgroup had been consolidated for the entirety of fiscal 2007. 2 Effects from consolidation1 Jan. 1– Dec. 31, Factors effecting 2008 earnings1 in € million Jan. 1– Dec. 31, PPA 2008 Wacker Neuson Wacker Neuson with PPA adjusted EBITDA thereof Neuson Kramer consolidation effects 100.9 15.4 1.3 117.6 – 15.1 1.3 117.3 EBITDA margin as a % 11.6 – – – EBIT 58.0 14.0 6.1 78.1 EBIT margin as a % 6.7 – – – Profit for the period 37.4 10.82 4.5 52.7 1 Mainly proceeds from the sale of equipment that would normally have accrued to the company had the products been sold to third parties, but which were not realized. The reason was that these products were channeled into rental and demo fl eets as part of our investment policy to stock our fl eets with compact machines from our own production facilities. 2 Dividend payments made within the Group were not included. Sales distribution Sales distribution Multi-year comparison sales by region by business segment in € million in % (previous year) in % (previous year) Asia 3.1 (3.4) Europe 77.7 (70.2) Services 21.5 (21.4) Light Equipment 37.8 (54.6) Americas 19.2 (26.4) Compact Equipment 40.7 (24.0) 2008 870.3 2007 742.1 2006 619.3 2005 503.2 2004 411.2 2003 361.9 For additional multi-year comparison data refer to page 129. 3 4 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Wacker Neuson Management “In times of crisis, we never lose sight of our core values. Busy times lie ahead – once investment bottlenecks start to clear worldwide. And when they do, we will be ready.” Dr.-Ing. Georg Sick, CEO and President. Member of Group management/the Executive Board since 1994. Legal matters, corporate communication, quality management and internal audit. “We are currently launching compact equipment in the US. This portfolio puts our exclusive dealers in an excellent position to capitalize on positive momentum when markets recover.” Martin Lehner, Deputy CEO since October 2007. Responsible for the Compact Equipment business segment. Previously member of Group management/CEO at Neuson Kramer. “More and more global dealers are keen to exclusively distribute our broad product portfolio – from electric breakers to 14-ton excavators. Demand for quality, competence and flexibility is higher than ever.” Werner Schwind, Member of the Executive Board. Member of Group management/the Executive Board since 1993. Responsible for sales, rental, logistics, service and marketing. “We have always focused on product and service quality as key value drivers for our customers. We will continue to build on these success factors – even in times of crisis.” Dipl.-Kfm. Richard Mayer, Member of the Executive Board. Member of Group management/the Executive Board since 1998. Responsible for the Light Equipment business segment. “Securing liquidity is crucial in the current economic crisis. Our high equity ratio helps us achieve this. We aim to fund day-to-day operations with cash flow from operating activities.” Mag. Günther C. Binder, Member of the Executive Board since October 2007. Responsible for finance and IT. Previously member of Group management/CFO at Neuson Kramer. Foreword by Management Dear Ladies and Gentlemen, 2008 was the first full fiscal year for the Wacker Neuson Group following the merger in 2007. We made solid progress in integrating the two companies over the past year. This was most evident to me in the excellent company-wide collaboration and the successful synchronization of business processes overall. The structural results thus far and the positive feedback we received from our customers confirm the Executive Board’s conviction that the merger was the right strategic move, helping to secure the long-term substance and success of our new organization. Unfortunately, the fruits of our efforts to date have been overshadowed by the current economic crisis. The turbulence was predicted at an early stage by the capital market, and this quickly pulled down our share price in line with our peers. However, we are determined not to let current developments dampen our spirits. The response to the merger has been resoundingly positive among our customers, partners and employees. We remain as determined as ever to strengthen the Group and make sure we are ideally poised to capitalize on the inevitable upswing, bolstered by the unique depth of our product portfolio. Despite the turbulence, we retained our strict focus on measures aimed at driving market penetration over the past year. Here we concentrated mainly on the worldwide launch of compact equipment acquired through the merger by means of our existing sales and service network. To achieve this, we intensified communication with our customers and partners, stepped up employee training and invested in our demo and rental fleets. We largely stocked our rental fleet in particular with compact machines from our own production facilities. We did this knowing that it would come at the expense of the short-term profits realized through external sales. So although the proceeds are spread over a four to six-year period, these rental investments nonetheless are another important milestone in the move to extend the market reach of our compact class. We were particularly successful in expanding the rental business in Central and Eastern Europe, especially in countries where we are not in direct competition with our key accounts. To all intents and purposes, it was business as usual during the first half of 2008. Predictably, light equipment sales were below the previous year’s figure due to the credit crunch in the US. At the same time, it was a very different story for compact equipment. Still largely concentrated in Europe, this segment experienced dynamic growth. Looking back, I can now say that I am glad that we nonetheless began to gear the company for a rapid slowdown – also in this segment – mid-way through 2008. 5 6 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Back in July, we revised our targets. We reduced projected sales to at least EUR 870 million and EBITDA margin (profit before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization) following purchase price allocation to at least 11 percent. With an actual sales figure of EUR 870.3 million and an EBITDA margin of 11.6 percent, we managed to exceed these goals. Given that we were also on target the previous fiscal year, I hope that our performance during the year under review will fur ther strengthen confidence in a company that is still a relative newcomer to the capital market. At the start of the second half-year, Wacker Neuson quickly introduced various efficiency measures to improve our cost structure and strengthen our financial and earnings position. This included a hiring freeze, reassessment of current projects and investment plans, and cancellation of numerous benefits and activities within the company. Unfortunately, we were nonetheless forced to close our production plant in Tredegar, Wales, UK and relocate wheel dumper production to our Linz site in Austria. At the start of the new fiscal year, we filed the paperwork for short-time work to secure as many jobs as possible at our German sites in Reichertshofen and Pfullendorf as well as in Linz. It was with great regret that we let our staff in Wales go. By the same token, many of our employees in Germany and Austria have also had to contend with a drop in earnings as a result of short-time work and other cost-cutting measures. However, we did not power down our research and development activities or our sales force. During the course of 2009, we plan to launch several new products as planned. On behalf of the Executive Board, I would like to thank all of our employees for their extraordinary solidarity and loyalty to the company. We also appreciate the personal stake they took in ensuring the success of the merger. The experts agree that the long-term prospects for the international construction industry are good. Short term, however, they are dampened by the overall economic downturn, which is also impacting the international construction industry. In view of the current dramatic downward sales spiral, we are extremely cautious about the current fiscal year and are not issuing any sales and earnings forecasts at this stage. We are in a position to meet our liquidity needs through a combination of our own liquid assets and the credit lines extended to Wacker Neuson by credit institutes. At present, we have drawn less than half of these lines. Given the uncertainty surrounding business prospects for 2009, maintaining liquidity is ultimately a priority for the company. This has also effected our dividend proposal. At the AGM in May 2009, we will propose a dividend of EUR 0.19 per eligible share which amounts to a payout of 32 percent of net earnings before purchase price allocation. Foreword by Management As the global economic climate is creating a massive backlog of infrastructure projects, we can expect a highly dynamic upswing for our business when the economy settles. In our view, the infrastructure programs initiated by numerous governments to break the investment deadlock will have an energizing effect on our markets, however in 2010 at the earliest. What I can say for certain is that our company has learned how to manage crisis situations on both a national and international scale over the past decades. The following chapters will tell you how we have responded to times of crisis and what strategies have proven successful. Even if none of the crunches we faced in the past involved such a dramatic drop in sales, past experience still guides us in these turbulent markets, helping us to make the right decisions and keep our sights firmly set on the turnaround. If the significant cost saving measures implemented so far are not sufficient, and we are not even ruling out quarterly losses, we will need to consider further reaching options. However, we have to make sure to maintain employee loyalty and to be prepared for the upswing after the crisis. Our high equity ratio of 77.4 percent, coupled with our comparably low net financial debt of EUR 59.0 million, puts us in an ideal position to capitalize on the opportunities that nonetheless present themselves at a time like this. I refer, for example, to the growing service business or sales of our compact equipment for the agricultural industry. When the construction industry does pick up across the globe, we will be ready for action. Dr.-Ing. Georg Sick CEO and President 7 8 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Keeping a cool head in a crisis The construction industry has always been characterized by peaks and troughs. And so we are no strangers to crises, especially with a company history stretching back to 1848. It has always been our policy to meet these challenges head on and row against the tide rather than simply reacting to prevailing conditions. This strategy has enabled us to set a successful course in the past, strengthen our competitive edge and enhance customer value to come out the other side of a crisis in an even stronger position. Our ability to remain focused on our core success factors has seen us ride out the most turbulent of storms: 1. Best-in-class product and service quality 2. Proximity to customers 3. Flexible production processes 4. Sound financial position 5. Global expansion Our success is also built on strong brand awareness among end users plus a broad product portfolio offering maximum customer choice. Our ability to row against the tide has enabled us to win market shares in times of crisis. The building boom in the wake of German reunification was followed by a crisis in Germany’s construction industry in the mid 1990s. As result, the number of workers employed in the construction industry has fallen from around 1.4 million in 1995 to today’s figure of approximately 700,000. Yet we have continued to grow organically in this market segment by expanding our rental business and launching a wide range of new products. The collapse of the new economy and the attacks on the World Trade Center halted worldwide investments on construction equipment markets. The company experienced a drop in sales. 401.6 370.6 373.6 333.1 307.8 261.7 Development of Wacker Neuson1 Development of the economy overall2 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 0 Grey area refl ects Wacker Neuson sales in € million. Company sales up on previous year Positive market development compared with previous year 2001 Special report: Sound strategy for times of crisis 1. High quality and a strong brand 9 4. Sound financial position Times of crisis usually lead to increased competition and rising pressure to reduce prices. However, we have only made minimal concessions to our pricing policy. And we have achieved this by continually focusing on best-in-class quality. Our customers have always been able to rely on our high-quality product portfolio, which we have continually expanded through customer-driven, innovative product launches. Our financial stability is built on two pillars: a high equity ratio and the ability to avoid unnecessary risks despite our proactive strategy. Even in times of crisis, we can continue to invest more than the amount of deprecation and amortization. This solid foundation is further bolstered by our strong sense of cost awareness – shared by all employees throughout the company. 5. Global expansion 2. Proximity to customers and unique service offering We have always focused on strengthening our market presence, and getting closer to end customers and dealers alike. While many of our competitors have reduced their reach, we have been widening our sales network. After all, maintaining consistently high levels of service quality is crucial, especially when it comes to spare parts and maintenance. During the 1990s, we expanded our services segment to include the rental (Central and Eastern Europe) business field. Since then, our direct sales model allows us to deliver all the benefits of a “one-stop provider”. We have been continually expanding our global footprint to reach new markets. Building on an early presence in the US and Asia dating back to the 1950s, we have since established over 30 new affiliates across the globe. In 2005, our acquisition of the company Weidemann saw us enter the European agricultural industry. 870.3 3. Flexible production processes 742.1 At Wacker Neuson, we have established flexible production processes that enable us to react quickly to market needs. Our concept of flexibility also extends to employee training, ensuring our people have the skills to perform a wide range of tasks. As a result, we can avoid stock build-up – even if we experience a drop in demand. 619.3 The global economic crisis also affected customer order patterns in the light and compact equipment segments. By mid-2008, we had already adjusted our forecast and implemented costcutting measures. 503.2 411.2 1 2 356.7 361.9 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Wacker Neuson sales compared with previous year German construction equipment industry sales compared with previous year (source: German Engineering Federation, VDMA) 2007 2008 10 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Report by Supervisory Board Dear Ladies and Gentlemen, Center stage at the start of 2008 was the business of preparing resolutions to transform Wacker Neuson into a European company (SE) and change its name to Wacker Neuson SE. The second half of the year, however, was increasingly dominated by the global financial crisis and its impact on our business. Yet despite this development, we were still able to increase sales and remain profitable. We would like to thank our employees in particular for this achievement. Their dedication and active sense of responsibility was a great support to company management over the year. Cooperation between Supervisory and Executive Boards Hans Neunteufel Chairman In the period under review, the Supervisory Board performed the tasks assigned to it by law and the Articles of Incorporation and was satisfied that the company was properly managed (Corporate Governance). Furthermore, the Supervisory Board regularly advised the Executive Board on the management of the company and supervised management activities. It maintained continuous dialog with the Executive Board regarding business development and corporate strategy and was directly involved in all major decisions regarding the company. In the run-up to and during its meetings, the Supervisory Board was brought up to date on business developments, changes in assets/liabilities, profit and finances, fundamental issues regarding company planning, company strategy and other key measures by means of detailed written and verbal reports from the Executive Board. These reports were not only discussed in depth by the Supervisory Board during Supervisory Board meetings, they were also discussed with the Executive Board. Particular emphasis was placed on the company’s strategic orientation during these joint discussions. Based on reports and information provided by the Executive Board, the Supervisory Board is satisfied that the company was properly managed. Members of the Executive Board regularly took part in Supervisory Board meetings. When necessary, the committees also convened without the Executive Board. Once again, all Supervisory Board members attended more than half of the Supervisory Board Meetings in fiscal 2008. Furthermore, the Executive Board provided the Supervisory Board with regular, comprehensive and timely information between meetings about current business trends as well as special or urgent projects. This information was made available in writing and also in person. Where necessary, the Executive Board requested approval from the Supervisory Board for suggested courses of action. Together with the Executive Board, the Supervisory Board discussed and Report by Supervisory Board examined in detail proposals that required Supervisory Board ratification. The Supervisory Board voted on resolutions of this kind during scheduled meetings. In addition, the Executive Board submitted monthly reports on key financial and economic figures. In instances where the Executive Board, or the CEO in particular, was not in direct communication with the Chairman of the Supervisory Board, the Chairman of the Supervisory Board maintained regular contact with the Executive Board, ensuring a continuous flow of information regarding the current business and financial situation of the company and its holdings as well as major business transactions. Main topics of Supervisory Board meetings in fiscal 2008 Throughout fiscal 2008, eight Supervisory Board meetings, four Audit Committee and three Presiding Committee meetings allowed the Supervisory Board to form a sound view of the work and policies of the Executive Board. During these meetings, the Supervisory Board regularly focused on current business development of the Wacker Neuson Group and plans drawn up by Executive Board. Particular emphasis was placed on the financial situation as well as the development of sales, costs and earnings. During the relevant meetings, any questions from the Supervisory Board that arose from the regular written and verbal reports were answered in full by the Executive Board. Supervisory Board meetings focused on the following items in particular: At the meetings held on February 11, 2008 and March 4, 2008, the Supervisory Board focused its discussions on the legal transition of Wacker Construction Equipment AG to Wacker Neuson SE. Following relevant preparations carried out by the Audit Committee, the Supervisory Board undertook a thorough examination of the Annual Financial Statements, the Consolidated Financial Statements and the Management Reports for Wacker Construction Equipment AG and the Group for fiscal 2007 in the Supervisory Board meeting to approve the financial statements on April 7, 2008. In addition to the regular examinations performed in the run-up to this meeting, Supervisory Board members also raised numerous questions with the auditor present at the meeting and discussed these issues with him in detail. The Supervisory Board also ratified the AGM agenda at this meeting. In its meetings held on June 3, 2008 and July 4, 2008, the Supervisory Board focused its deliberations on the construction of the new headquarters in Munich (Germany) as well as the purchase of a tract of land and the possible construction of a new plant in Hörsching (Austria). 11 12 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Company- and Group-wide cost-cutting and restructuring measures were the main points on the agenda at the September 24, 2008 and November 6, 2008 meetings. Here, the Supervisory Board approved the closure of the manufacturing plant in Wales (UK) and the relocation of production to the Linz site in Austria. At the November 6, 2008 meeting, the Supervisory Board also dealt with publication of the forthcoming interim financial report (quarterly report). During its meeting on December 19, 2008, the Supervisory Board examined the business plan for fiscal 2009. Board members not only assessed the plan, but also discussed the associated opportunities and risks in detail with the Executive Board against the backdrop of the worsening general global economic situation. The Supervisory Board also examined each of the monthly reports. During numerous meetings, it also addressed various planned acquisitions aimed at expanding the product portfolio, and assessed the Group sales strategy. Changes in the composition of the executive bodies During the period under review, there were no changes to the composition of the Supervisory and Executive Boards. On June 3, 2008, the AGM agreed to change the company’s name and legal form to Wacker Neuson SE. This change came into effect after the end of the period under review, upon entry of the new company in the Register of Companies (Handelsregister) on February 18, 2009. The composition of Wacker Neuson SE’s executive bodies is identical to that of Wacker Construction Equipment AG. The composition of the Supervisory Board committees also remains unchanged, as do the positions CEO and Chairman of the Supervisory Board. Work performed by the Supervisory Board committees in fiscal 2008 The two Supervisory Board committees (the Presiding and Audit Committees) also continued their work during the period under review, thus helping the entire Supervisory Board to work more efficiently. The Audit Committee is made up of members of the Supervisory Board. During the February 10, 2008 and March 31, 2008 meetings, the Audit Committee prepared the Supervisory Board’s resolution on the adoption of the Annual Financial Statements and the approval of the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ending December 31, 2007. During its June 3, 2008 and August 11, 2008 meetings, the Audit Committee addressed general issues relating to risk management, compliance, auditing and internal auditing. The Presiding Committee dealt with Report by Supervisory Board general matters regarding the Executive Board as well as human resources issues during its meetings. The chairmen of the committees reported on the work performed by the committees during the Supervisory Board’s plenary meetings. Risk assessment and compliance The Supervisory Board is satisfied that the company’s risk management policy meets the requirements set down in the German law on control and transparency in business (KonTraG), insurable risks are sufficiently insured and operational, financial and contractual risks are sufficiently controlled by approval procedures and organizational processes. A detailed risk reporting system is in place throughout the Group and it is continuously maintained and further developed. The risk management system was also examined by the appointed auditing company, which confirmed that the Executive Board had met the requirements of Section 91 (2) of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG) and established a suitable early warning system capable of monitoring and identifying developments that could pose a threat to the company’s continued existence as a going concern. During Supervisory Board meetings and personal conversations, the Executive Board informed the Supervisory Board of the current risk situation. The Supervisory and Executive Boards discussed all areas deemed to be risks during these sessions. The Audit Committee addressed compliance issues. Corporate Governance Both the Supervisory and Executive Boards are aware that good corporate governance is essential to protect shareholder interests and secure the company’s long-term success. The Supervisory Board continuously monitored the further development of the German Corporate Governance Code and kept up to date with the capital market and corporate legislative framework. On March 23, 2009, the Executive and Supervisory Boards issued a new joint declaration of compliance with the German Corporate Governance Code pursuant to Section 161 AktG. The entire declaration has been made permanently available on the Company’s website and is also printed in the annual report. Annual and Consolidated Financial Statements for 2008 At the AGM on June 3, 2008, the auditing company Rölfs WP Partner AG, based in Munich, Germany, was appointed auditor for the company and Group for fiscal 2008. The Chairman of the Audit Committee commissioned the company in writing with the task of auditing the accounting standards. Before the Supervisory Board made its proposal to the AGM, the auditing company confirmed its independence in writing to the Chairman of the Audit Committee. 13 14 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 The Annual Financial Statements for the year ending December 31, 2008 were prepared by the Executive Board in accordance with the German Commercial Code (HGB). The Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ending December 31, 2008 were also prepared by the Executive Board in line with IFRS as adopted in the EU and the additional requirements pursuant to Section 315a HGB. The auditing company Rölfs WP Partner AG has audited both sets of statements along with the books and approved them without qualification. Each member of the Supervisory Board received the audit documents for appraisal in a timely manner. Together with the Audit Committee, the entire Supervisory Board undertook a thorough examination of the Annual Financial Statements as well as the Consolidated Financial Statements, the Management Reports and the related party disclosures in conjunction with the audit reports. The documents were discussed in detail at the Audit Committee meeting on March 23, 2009 and at the Supervisory Board plenary meeting, also on March 23, 2009, with the Executive Board and in the presence of the auditors, who reported the main findings of their audit and answered questions from Supervisory Board members. After its own close examination of the documents, the Supervisory Board raised no objections and endorses the results of the audit report. The Supervisory Board also approves the Management Reports and, in particular, the forecast regarding the company’s further development. The final examination by the Supervisory Board revealed no grounds for objections. The Super visory Board has therefore endorsed the Annual Financial Statements, the Consolidated Financial Statements, the Management Report and Group Management Report prepared by the Executive Board for the year ending December 31, 2008. The Annual Financial Statements have thus been duly approved. The Supervisory Board also examined the Executive Board’s suggested appropriation of profit for fiscal 2008. It did not raise any objections and thus gives it its unqualified consent. Examination of the Executive Board report regarding relations with related entities (related party disclosures) The Executive Board prepared a report on related party disclosures for fiscal 2008. This report contains in particular a declaration by the Executive Board about the legal transactions undertaken by Wacker Neuson SE (formerly: Wacker Construction Equipment AG). The Executive Board states that – to the best of its knowledge and based on the information known to the Executive Board at the time the transactions were entered into – that appropriate compensation Report by Supervisory Board was received in respect of all transactions outlined in the related party disclosures report. Auditing company Rölfs WP Partner AG examined the related parted disclosures report and issued the following auditor’s opinion: “Based on our professional examination and evaluation, we confirm that 1. the factual statements contained in the report are correct, and 2. the performance provided by the company in respect of the transactions listed in the report was not unreasonably high.” The Audit Committee and the entire Supervisory Board received the Executive Board’s report on related party disclosures in a timely manner. The contents of the report and the assessment thereof by the auditors were read and understood by these bodies, and both documents and their results were examined and discussed with the Executive Board and the auditors. The Super visory Board endorses the auditor’s assessment of the related party disclosures report. Based on the final results of the discussions and its own examination of the related party disclosures, the Supervisory Board regards the Executive Board’s conclusions to be true and accurate and has no objection to the closing statement by the Executive Board. The turbulent global economic situation in no way inhibited the great personal dedication shown by management and all employees of the Wacker Neuson Group. On the contrary, the commitment, dedication and performance of our workforce – both on a day-to-day basis and under exceptional circumstances - were crucial factors behind the company’s continued positive development during the period under review. The Supervisory Board would like to thank all employees and the Executive Board for their efforts here. Munich, March 2009 Supervisory Board Hans Neunteufel Chairman 15 16 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Corporate Governance Corporate Governance takes high priority at Wacker Neuson. Our Executive and Supervisory Boards see it as their responsibility to comply with principles ensuring responsible, professional and transparent company management, as stipulated in the German Corporate Governance Code. Our activities are geared towards securing our company’s long-term success and increasing its value. Trust is a crucial element of our corporate culture – both between managers and staff and between the Executive and Supervisory Boards. Role of executive bodies The company’s executive bodies are the Executive and Supervisory Boards and the AGM. The Executive Board represents the company to third parties and manages its companies in accordance with legal regulations, the Articles of Incorporation and the rules of procedure for the Executive Board. The Supervisory Board advises the Executive Board, monitors its activities and participates in key decisions. Executive Board The Executive Board currently comprises five members. It is responsible for managing the company and represents it both legally and otherwise. The Executive Board develops the company’s strategic orientation in collaboration with the Supervisory Board and ensures it is appropriately implemented. It is also responsible for establishing the company’s business plan for the coming year and beyond as well as establishing legally required reports such as annual financial statements, consolidated financial statements and interim reports. In addition, the Executive Board also ensures that a suitable risk control and management policy is in place and that regular, prompt and extensive reports are made to the Supervisory Board regarding all relevant issues relating to strategy, company planning, business developments, the risk situation and risk management. The Executive Board’s duties and areas of responsibility is governed by the rules of procedure for the Executive Board. Measures and transactions of fundamental importance are communicated to shareholders and the capital market in a timely manner, thus ensuring that decisionmaking processes remain transparent – also throughout the year – and capital market players are kept sufficiently up to date. Major transactions must be approved by the Supervisory Board. The Executive Board generally reaches decisions through resolution with a simple majority. Dr.-Ing. Georg Sick is Chairman of the Executive Board and Martin Lehner Deputy Chairman. Supervisory Board The Supervisory Board itself has six members. In accordance with the German One-Third Participation Act (Drittelbeteiligungsgesetz), four of these are shareholder representatives and two are employee representatives. Corporate Governance The Executive and Supervisory Boards’ working relationship is based on a sense of mutual trust and the two bodies work closely together to ensure a sustainable increase in the company’s value. The core areas of collaboration between the Executive and Supervisory Boards are detailed in the report by the Supervisory Board, which is part of this annual report (see page 10ff.). Clear and transparent procedures and structures are an integral part of the monitoring and control processes defined in the rules of procedure for the Supervisory Board. The Supervisory Board has defined the Executive Board’s reporting duties in further detail. The rules of procedure for the Supervisory Board, last amended in February 2009, reflect the recommendations of the German Corporate Governance Code for Supervisory Boards. Conflicts of interest between Executive and Supervisory Board members must be reported immediately to the Supervisory Board. No conflicts of this kind occurred. Intensive committee work The Supervisory Board has formed two committees. The responsibilities of the Presiding Committee particularly include submitting proposals for Executive Board appointments, terminations and mandate extensions; concluding, amending and terminating contracts with Executive Board members; and preparing meetings and handling ongoing business. The Presiding Committee members are Hans Neunteufel, Dr. Ulrich Wacker and Dr. Eberhard Kollmar. The Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Hans Neunteufel, also chairs the Presiding Committee. The Audit Committee appoints auditors to review the Annual and Consolidated Financial Statements, determines the focal points of the audit, negotiates the fee, receives the report and assesses the auditor’s independence. It also supports and monitors the Executive Board regarding accounting issues especially in relation to quarterly reports, risk management and compliance. The Audit Committee members are Dr. Eberhard Kollmar, Hans Neunteufel, Kurt Helletzgruber and Herbert Santl. It is chaired by Dr. Eberhard Kollmar, who has gained particularly in-depth knowledge and experience in the application of accounting rules and internal auditing through many years working as an attorney-at-law in the field of economic law. Corporate governance and compliance The Executive and Supervisory Boards view the German Corporate Governance Code as an important body of regulations. As a listed company with international shareholders, it is in our interests to make Germany a more attractive economic center for the global financial community. As far as we are concerned, this also extends beyond the Code to include general principles of fairness, honesty and good conduct in our daily dealings with business partners. Last but not least, we also ensure our business activities comply with the legal provisions and official regulations in all countries in which we are represented. We regularly brief our employees on the necessities and rules of responsible conduct. 17 18 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Annual General Meeting (AGM) Focus on shareholders Shareholders exercise their rights, including voting rights, at the AGM. All shares in Wacker Neuson SE provide shareholders with full voting rights and are registered by name. Each share represents one vote. The AGM agenda plus the requisite reports and documents are published on the company’s website. Our AGM this year will take place in Munich on May 28. The Executive Board makes it easier for shareholders to exercise their voting rights at the AGM by offering the opportunity to delegate binding voting instructions to proxies named by the company. Information on how to vote by proxy will be included in the invitation to AGM meeting. These named proxies are also available at the AGM to shareholders present at the AGM. It is also possible to delegate voting rights to financial institutions, shareholder associations and other third parties. Accounting and auditing The Consolidated Financial Statements of Wacker Neuson SE are prepared in line with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The Annual Financial Statements, the Management Report and the Group Management Report are prepared in accordance with the German Commercial Code (HGB). Prior to proposing an auditor at the AGM, the Supervisory Board obtained a certificate of independence from the auditor in question. The auditor was requested by the chairman of the Audit Committee to immediately report all significant findings or incidents identified during the audit and relating in the broadest sense to Supervisory Board duties, if these findings or incidents could not be directly resolved. Transparency Active communication with external stakeholders Regular, active dialog with our shareholders and interested members of the public is one of the cornerstones of our corporate governance policy. We aim for the greatest possible transparency, providing shareholders, financial analysts, shareholder associations and the media with regular and prompt information about business trends and significant changes within the company. We are fully committed to a policy of active and honest communication. As stipulated by the German Securities Trading Act (WpHG) and German Corporate Governance Code, we provide information on our company’s business development and financial situation four times a year. This takes the form of three quarterly reports and one annual report. The Executive Board also answers shareholder questions at the AGM. We also use our Internet platform as a way of keeping our stakeholders up to date. All our press and ad-hoc releases, financial reports and our financial calendar detailing important events are permanently available at www.wackerneuson.com. Interested parties can join our online distribution list to automatically receive company reports at regular intervals. Corporate Governance Director’s dealings and significant voting interests Pursuant to Section 15a WpHG, Wacker Neuson SE publishes reports on directors’ dealings as soon as these are received. The reports refer to securities transactions with regard to Wacker Neuson shares submitted by members of the Executive and Supervisory Boards as well as by natural and legal persons closely related to members of these bodies. This information is also disclosed on the company’s website (www.wackerneuson.com) under Investor Relations/ Corporate Governance. Pursuant to Section 21 WpHG, the company also publishes reports regarding the purchase or sale of significant voting rights as soon as these are received, as well as reports on corresponding financial instruments held in line with Section 25 WpHG on its website at www.wackerneuson.com, under Investor Relations/Company News. Annual Document in line with Section 10 of the German Securities Prospectus Act (Wertpapierprospektgesetz) The Annual Document pursuant to Section 10 (1) of the German Securities Prospectus Act is available at www.wackerneuson.com under Investor Relations/Corporate Governance. Remuneration report in the corporate governance report Main features of remuneration system for Executive Board Members At Wacker Neuson SE, our remuneration system is based on performance and results, reflecting a corporate culture that rewards individual effort. The total remuneration package for Executive Board members is a combination of fixed and results-indexed payments. The criteria for fair remuneration are determined in particular by the roles assigned to individual Board members, their personal performance and the performance of the Executive Board as a whole, as well as the financial situation and the company’s success and prospects, measured against the backdrop of market conditions. Further information on the main features of the remuneration system of the Executive Board is included in the Group Management Report (page 64 in this annual report). The AGM approved a resolution not to publish remuneration details for individual Executive Board members in the interest of privacy. Total Executive Board remuneration is disclosed in the notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the section on executive bodies (page 119 in this annual report). Remuneration of Supervisory Board Members Total Supervisory Board remuneration is also disclosed in the notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the section on executive bodies (page 120 in this annual report). 19 20 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Declaration of compliance 2009 The Executive and Supervisory Boards of Wacker Neuson SE have thoroughly examined the recommendations of the German Corporate Governance Code and updated their declaration of compliance on March 23, 2009. The declaration also states which recommendations from the German Corporate Governance Code as amended on June 6, 2008 have not been complied with and gives reasons for these deviations. The full declaration of compliance is as follows. Declaration of compliance with the German Corporate Governance Code in accordance with Section 161 of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG) The German Corporate Governance Code contains recommendations and proposals for managing and monitoring German listed companies in relation to shareholders and the AGM, the Executive and Supervisory Boards, transparency, accounting and auditing. AktG requires the Executive and Supervisory Boards of listed companies to declare each year the recommendations with which they did or do not comply. The Executive and Supervisory Boards identify with the aims of the German Corporate Governance Code, supporting responsible, transparent and sustainable management and governance geared towards increasing company value. The following describes how we implement the recommendations. In accordance with Section 161 AktG, the Executive and Supervisory Boards of Wacker Neuson SE declare that the company complied with the recommendations issued by the German Corporate Governance Code Commission as amended on June 14, 2007 and published by the German Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) in the official section of the electronic Federal Gazette on July 20, 2007, up to and including August 8, 2008, and that, from August 9, 2008, it complies and will continue to comply with the recommendations issued by the German Corporate Governance Code Commission as amended on June 6, 2008 and published on August 8, 2008, with the exceptions listed below. The company has deviated and deviates from the Code’s recommendations in the following respects: 1. Section 3.8: The company’s directors and officers’ (D&O) liability insurance policies for its Executive and Supervisory Boards have been concluded without a deductible. The company does not believe that a deductible would improve the sense of motivation and responsibility with which our Board members perform their duties. D&O insurance safeguards the company against substantial internal risks and protects the assets of members of its executive bodies only as a secondary function. Corporate Governance 2. Section 4.2.2: The Presiding Committee approves the remuneration system for the Executive Board, including significant contractual terms, and regularly examines the remuneration structure. Regular reports on the activities of the Supervisory Board committees, including the Presiding Committee, are provided at that Supervisory Board’s plenary meeting. The Executive and Supervisory Boards do not see the need for any further resolutions or examination of the remuneration system structure in the Supervisory Board plenary meeting. 3. Section 4.2.3, para. 4 and 5: The recommendation that severance payments, including additional benefits, shall not exceed two year’s remuneration (severance pay cap) if an Executive Board member’s contract is terminated prematurely without good cause has only partially been complied with. The Supervisory Board is of the opinion that the existing rules in Executive Board members’ contracts are appropriate and does not see the need to implement any changes here. Executive Board members’ contracts do not contain agreements on severance pay in the event of a change of control. 4. Section 4.2.3, para. 6: The AGM is not informed separately about the main terms of and changes to the remuneration system for Executive Board members as this information is already disclosed in the Group Management Report, which is available to all shareholders. 5. Sections 4.2.4; 4.2.5; 5.4.7; para. 3, 7.1.3: The AGM has decided not to publish the income of each individual Executive Board member in the notes to the Annual and Consolidated Financial Statements. In line with this, the corporate governance report does not include a remuneration report. Remuneration details for individual Supervisory Board members will also not be published. The Executive and Supervisory Boards consider that the mandatory legal statements provide investors and the public with sufficient information in this area. 6. Section 5.1.2, para. 2, sent 3: The Supervisory Board has not set an age limit for members of the Executive Board. The Supervisory Board members are convinced that individual performance is the defining factor in suitability for company management. 7. Section 5.3.3: The Supervisory Board has not formed a nomination committee. The size of the Supervisory Board (four shareholder representatives) does not warrant a dedicated committee for proposing Supervisory Board candidates. 8. Section 5.4.3, sent. 1 and 3: For efficiency reasons, the election of the Supervisory Board will continue to be by block or list voting, in accordance with legal requirements. So that the Supervisory Board can also continue to vote impartially for its chairperson, the proposed candidates will not be announced. 21 22 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 9. Section 5.4.4: The Executive and Supervisory Boards consider that in some cases, it may prove beneficial for former Executive Board members to transfer to the Supervisory Board and even chair the Board or certain of its committees. The internal knowledge former Executive Board members have of company operations increases the efficiency of Supervisory Board monitoring. As long as Supervisory Board membership is well-balanced in accordance with the Code, the Executive and Supervisory Boards do not see any disadvantage here. 10. Section 6.6: Share ownership by individual members of the executive bodies exceeding one percent of shares issued by the company has not been and will not be stated in the corporate governance report. The Executive Board is of the view that protecting personal and family privacy takes priority here. Disclosures of the acquisition and sale of company shares by members of the Executive and Supervisory Boards or related parties are made in accordance with legal requirements and published on the company website (as stipulated by Section 15aWpHG). This disclosure is not repeated in the corporate governance report. 11. Section 7.1.2, sent. 3: The company will publish the Consolidated Financial Statements (annual financial report) for fiscal 2008 within the 90-day deadline for the first time. The company complied or complies in full with all other recommendations issued by the German Corporate Governance Code Commission as amended on June 6, 2008, published August 8, 2008 in the official section of the electronic Federal Gazette. Munich, March 2009 Wacker Neuson SE Executive and Supervisory Board Dr.-Ing. Georg Sick Hans Neunteufel This declaration of compliance is per manently available to share holders on the Wacker Neuson SE website at www.wackerneuson.com, and will be revised annually. Wacker Neuson SE will make outdated declarations available on its website for a period of at least fi ve years. Investor Relations Investor Relations We actively engaged in investor relations during fiscal 2008. Our efforts here were certainly fruitful, with six new financial analysts now also covering our company. In June, we held our first Annual General Meeting as a listed company in Munich, Germany, and in the fall we invited analysts and investors to our first Capital Markets Day in the Kramer-Werke GmbH production plant in Pfullendorf. Obviously, however, it was not possible to prevent events on the financial markets impacting the share price in 2008. Our shares are now listed under the new company name, Wacker Neuson SE. International stock markets In 2008, our stock-market performance was influenced by the financial crisis, which began on the US subprime market in mid-2007 and then spilt over to the European financial markets in 2008. Numerous banks encountered financial difficulties and had to be propped up or rescued by takeovers. The resultant loss of trust had a massive impact on the stock markets. Share facts at a glance Share price shaped by financial crisis ISIN DE000WACK012 WKN WACK01 Trading symbol WAC Sector Industrial Stock category Individual no-par-value nominal shares Share capital EUR 70,140,000 Number of authorized shares 70,140,000 shares Stock exchange segment Regulated market (Prime Standard), Frankfurt Stock Exchange Initial listing May 15, 2007 New shares listed for trading 19,140,000 shares (as part of merger with Neuson Kramer) February 8, 2008 Designated sponsor Deutsche Bank Wacker Neuson SE shares are listed on the regulated Prime Standard segment of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and the SDAX. The price followed a similar path to the overall German stock market trend (chart 1). The capital market began to anticipate knock-on effects of the US subprime crisis on the international construction industry as far back as fall 2007. At the start of 2008, our shares were trading at EUR 14.62. Skepticism towards construction companies then influenced our share price over the course of the year – as was also the case for other major equipment manufacturers within our segment. At the end of the second quarter, we adjusted our forecast for the reporting year due to indications of a downturn in orders over the remaining half-year. 23 24 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 100 1. Share price trends in 2008 80 as a % 60 40 20 0 Jan. 08 Feb. Mar. Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec. 150 2. Share price trends plotted against peers 100 May 5, 2007 through 1 December 31, 2008 50 in % 0 May 15, 2007 WACKER 1 GEHL1 January 1, 2008 MANITOU December 31, 2008 HAULOTTE Manitou acquired Gehl Company in October 2008. The sharp upturn in the Gehl share price shows that the yardsticks applied to evaluate the deal were the same as those prevailing prior to the financial crisis in May 2007. Gehl shares ceased trading on October 27, 2008. 3. Share price trends 00007 plotted against peers 28576 (rebased) 57145 4 October 2008 through today 8571 3 in euros 1429 2 4286 1 7143 0 0000 WACKER Key share indicators Oct. 08 DEUTZ AG Nov. MANITOU Dec. Jan. 09 Feb. HAULOTTE Wacker Neuson share performance is summarized in the following: in euros 2008 High 14.62 29.30 Low 4.01 13.36 Average 9.37 21.39 End of year 6.19 14.62 153,348 203,874 Average trading volume in shares Earnings per share 0.53 1.10 Dividend payment proposed 0.19 0.501 32 401 434.2 1,025.40 Distribution ratio (based on group profit before PPA) Market capitalization in € million 1 2007 Including a bonus, based on the group profit before purchase price allocation on pro-forma basis 2007. Investor Relations Construction stocks also came under pressure due to sales favoring more liquid securities. Chart 2 plots our share path against market trends since the start of 2008. The selected peer group consists of competitors in the compact equipment segment: the French telescopic handler producer Manitou, the American manufacturer Gehl (acquired by Manitou in October), and Haulotte, a French lifting equipment specialist. The share prices all display a similar trend. At the end of 2008, the final listing price of our shares was EUR 6.19. Nevertheless, a look at peer group development from October 2008 to today shows that, at around EUR 5, Wacker Neuson shares have significantly outperformed other construction stocks (chart 3). However, in our view, shares in this sector can only be expected to recover when the capital market recognizes that the general economic climate has significantly improved. AGM 2008 The first AGM as a listed company on June 3, 2008 resolved to change the company’s legal form to a Societas Europaea (SE) and its name to Wacker Neuson SE. Shareholders also approved the proposal by the Executive and Supervisory Boards to pay out a dividend of EUR 0.50 per eligible share. Executive and Supervisory Board members’ actions were officially approved for fiscal 2007. Around 250 shareholders were represented at the AGM. Executive and Supervisory Boards at the first AGM as a listed company on June 3, 2008 in Munich. Proposed dividend Once again, our shareholders will benefit from the success of the Wacker Neuson Group in fiscal 2008. In view of the current earnings trend, the Executive and Supervisory Boards will propose a dividend payment of EUR 0.19 per eligible share at the AGM on May 28, 2009. In total therefore, the company will be paying out EUR 13.33 million (compared with EUR 35.07 million last year). The distribution ratio pans out at 32 percent based on Group profit for the year before purchase price allocation to the amount of EUR 41.9 million. This is in line with the Boards’ longterm dividend policy and is higher than the 30 percent minimum (distribution ratio) communicated at the time of the IPO. 25 26 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Shareholder structure as a % of total Shareholders within free float as a regional % of total Executive Board 2.4 USA + others 36.6 Neuson Ecotec GmbH 29.0 Germany 31.7 Wacker family1 39.4 Austria 12.9 Free float 29.2 Europe (rest of Europe) 18.8 thereof Third Avenue Management (USA) 3.2 Share capital/number of authorized shares: 70.14 million as of March 20, 2009 1 Ownership structure Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) Including Wacker-Werke GmbH & Co. KG, Wacker Familiengesellschaft mbH & Co. KG and VGC Invest GmbH At December 31, 2008, family ownership of the company amounted to about 70 percent, both directly and by proxy. The Executive Board holds a further 2.4-percent direct stake. Finally, Dr.- Ing. Georg Sick, CEO and President, acquired a large number of shares in September 2008 at an average price of EUR 6.73. The remaining 29.2 percent of shares are in free float. As far as the company is aware, around 63 percent of free float is held mainly by European investors. The 2008 ESPP was made available to those employees who did not have the opportunity to purchase discounted stock at the time of IPO in May 2007. Within this program, around 100 employees acquired a total of 37,192 discounted shares between November 15 and December 31, 2008. The maximum number of shares subsidized was the same as an employee would have been able to purchase at a discount under certain limits imposed at the IPO. Number of analysts more than doubled In fiscal 2008, we maintained ongoing, active communication with financial market players. Our consistent aim has been to keep analysts and investors informed of company developments, our strategy, our business model, and the complexity of our markets. The Executive Board and IR department provided regular updates on current company developments. They accomplished this through a variety of channels, including the AGM, investor conferences and national and international roadshows. As a particularly rewarding result of these active communication efforts, analysts’ reports doubled in number in 2008, with six new banks deciding to cover the Wacker Neuson share. In February 2009, Commerzbank took the place of Dresdner Bank following the takeover. Investor Relations 2009 Analyst coverage as of February 28, 2009 2008 2007 Crédit Agricole Cheuvreux S.A., Germany since May 31, 2007 Deutsche Bank AG since May 15, 2007 (IPO)) Commerzbank Corporates & Markets Research since February 12, 2009 BHF-BANK Aktiengesellschaft since September 29, 2008 Dresdner Kleinwort Research GmbH since March 19, 2008; Commerzbank took the place of Dresdner Bank following the takeover Sal. Oppenheim Research GmbH since May 15, 2007, IPO DZ BANK AG DeutscheGenossenschaftsbank AG since September 4, 2008 UBS Deutschland AG since May 15, 2007, IPO) Goldman Sachs International since March 12, 2008 Reuschel & Co. Privatbankiers (Trust Research) since June 2, 2008 SES Research GmbH since May 16, 2008 First place in “manager magazin” A wealth of up-to-date information is always available from our website, www.wackerneuson.com. This includes annual and quarterly reports, press releases and ad-hoc announcements, plus topical presentations. The German “manager magazin” officially acknowledged the quality of our financial communication, awarding us first place in the stock market newcomers category of its Best Annual Reports 2007 competition. In February and March 2008, we commissioned an independent consulting company to run a perception study among institutional investors and analysts. This involved asking capital market players how they rated our financial communication and the extent to which it meets their needs. We used the results of this study to further optimize our investor relations activities, and it will continue to be of assistance in expanding our financial communication in line to meet stakeholder interests. First Capital Markets Day at Wacker Neuson At the end of September 2008, over 20,000 visitors came to Pfullendorf, near Lake Constance in Germany, to attend the opening of the new production plant for our affiliate, Kramer-Werke GmbH. As part of the opening celebrations, we also held our first Capital Markets Day on September 26, 2008. Here, the Executive Board and IR department provided analysts and investors with a wealth of first-hand information on the compact equipment business segment, which has grown substantially through the merger. The program included presentations, plant tours and equipment demonstrations, as well as dialog with Kramer executives. And, to round it all off, our bravest guests even had the chance to try out some of our machinery for themselves. 27 28 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Group Structure Wacker Neuson SE* Americas (all 100%) Europe (all 100%) Weidemann GmbH, Wacker Neuson (Pty) Ltd, Wacker Neuson Ltd., Wacker Neuson Máquinas Ltda., Diemelsee-Flechtdorf, Florida (near Johannesburg), Waltham Cross (near London), Jundiaí (near São Paulo), Brazil Germany South Africa Great Britain Wacker Neuson GmbH, Wacker Neuson srl con socio unico, Wacker Machinery Limited, Vienna, San Giorgio di Piano Dublin, Austria (near Bologna), Italy Ireland Wacker Neuson Ltda., Huechuraba (near Santiago), Chile Wacker Neuson Ltd., Mississauga (near Toronto), Canada Wacker Neuson AG, Wacker Neuson S.A., Wacker Neuson S.A.S., Volketswil (near Zurich), Torrejón de Ardoz (near Madrid), Brie-Comte-Robert (near Paris), Switzerland Spain France Wacker Neuson S.A. de C.V., Mexico City, Mexico Drillfi x AG, Wacker Neuson A/S, Volketswil (near Zurich), Karlslunde, Wacker Neuson s.r.o., Prague, Wacker Neuson Corporation, Switzerland Denmark Czech Republic Menomonee Falls (near Milwaukee), USA Wacker Neuson B.V., Wacker Neuson AS, Wacker Neuson Sp. z o.o., Amersfoort, Hagan (near Oslo), Jawczyce (near Warsaw), EQUIPRO Inc., Netherlands Norway Poland Germantown (near Milwaukee), USA 100% Wacker Neuson Makina Ltd. Şti., Wacker Neuson AB, Wacker Neuson Kft, Küçükbakkalköy (near Istanbul), Södra Sandby (near Malmö), Törökbálint (near Budapest), Turkey Sweden Hungary Asia (all 100%) Wacker Neuson Manila, Inc., Wacker Neuson Oy, Wacker Neuson Beteiligungs GmbH, Wacker Neuson GmbH, Kerava (near Helsinki), Leonding (near Linz), Moscow, Finland Austria Russia Dasmariñas (near Manila), Philippines Wacker Neuson Pty Ltd, Springvale (near Melbourne), Australia Wacker Neuson Limited, 100% 98% Wacker Neuson Linz GmbH, Auckland, New Zealand Wacker Neuson Finance Leonding (near Linz), Immorent GmbH, Austria Leonding (near Linz), Austria Wacker Neuson Limited, Samutprakarn (near Bangkok), Thailand 94.9% 100% Wacker Neuson Rhymney Ltd., Kramer-Werke GmbH, Tredegar, Pfullendorf, Wacker Neuson Equipment Private Ltd., Great Britain Germany Bangalore, India Nippon Wacker Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan Wacker Neuson Limited, 100% *Basis for Consolidation 94.5% Hong Kong, China STG Stahl und PADEM Grundstücks- Maschinenbautechnik Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH & Co. Gutmadingen GmbH, Objekt Gutmadingen KG, Wacker Neuson Machinery Trading Geisingen, Germany Düsseldorf, Germany (Shenzhen) Ltd. Co., Shenzhen, China 100% 29 Contents Group Management Report I. About Wacker Neuson | 30 VII. Other factors that impacted on results | 49 Research and development | 49 II. General background | 31 Production | 50 Overall economic trends | 31 Quality and sustainability | 50 Purchasing | 51 Overview of construction and agricultural industries | 32 Logistics | 51 General legal framework | 34 Human resources | 52 Competitive position | 34 Sales and marketing | 54 III. Business development in fiscal 2008 | 35 VIII. Risk report | 54 IV. Profit, finances and assets | 39 IX. Information in accordance with Section Profit | 40 Finances | 42 Assets | 43 Summary of profit, finances and assets | 44 315 (4) of HGB | 59 X. Remuneration framework | 64 XI. Supplementary report | 65 V. Reporting by region | 44 Europe | 45 XII. Opportunities and outlook | 66 Americas | 46 Overall economic outlook | 66 Asia | 46 Outlook for construction and agricultural industries | 66 VI. Reporting by business segment | 47 Opportunities and outlook for the Light equipment | 47 future development of Wacker Neuson SE | 67 Compact equipment | 48 Development outlook by region | 68 Services | 48 Development outlook by business segment | 68 Company forecast | 68 Summary forecast | 69 The graphics and tables below are not part of the Group Management Report. They are provided for information purposes only and do not always align with the audited Consolidated Financial Statements. 30 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Group Management Report I. About Wacker Neuson Global leader in light and compact equipment International sales, consulting, and support network EBITDA as a key benchmark of performance The Wacker Neuson Group develops, manufactures and distributes high-quality light and compact equipment to support and optimize customer construction processes around the globe. Wacker Neuson is the partner of choice among professional users in mainstream construction, gardening, landscaping and agriculture, as well as for municipal bodies and the industrial and recycling sectors. The Group now offers these customers over 300 product categories and extensive rental, spare parts and repair services. Wacker Neuson has more than 180 sales and service stations in over 30 countries and currently around 5,200 dealerships in more than 12,400 locations, resulting in a dense consulting and support network. Our main aim is to complement our broad offering of high-quality products with the best possible service. The Wacker Neuson Group organizes its products and services into three business segments: Light equipment with four business fields that are aligned with our customers’ business processes: Concrete technology Soil and asphalt compaction Demolition Utility Compact equipment Services with two business fields: After-market (repair and maintenance) Rental (Central and Eastern Europe) The majority of products from our light and compact equipment segments are distributed under the “Wacker Neuson” brand. In the Europe region, we also distribute all-wheel drive wheel loaders and telescopic handlers from the compact equipment business segment under the “Kramer Allrad” brand, as well as articulated wheel loaders for the agricultural industry under the “Weidemann” brand. In the rest of the world, all Group products are “Wacker Neuson” branded. This Group Management Report reflects the results of the Wacker Neuson Group’s global activities in fiscal 2008. Organizational and legal structure Wacker Neuson SE is a European company with its headquarters in Munich. It is registered in the German Register of Companies (Handelsregister) at the Munich Magistrate’s Court under HRB 177839. The Company’s shares have been listed since May 2007. On June 3, 2008, the AGM resolved to rename the Company “Wacker Neuson SE“ and change its legal form to a European company (“Societas Europaea”). The new company was entered in the Register of Companies on February 18, 2009. The legal charter of Wacker Neuson SE remains almost identical to that of Wacker Construction Equipment AG. Consolidated Financial Statements of the Wacker Neuson Group are prepared in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Forty-two companies, including the parent company, are fully consolidated in these statements. Furthermore, we have direct or indirect majority holdings in seven smaller companies which do not have a significant impact on Wacker Neuson’s business either individually or collectively. Wacker Neuson SE is the largest operating company in the Wacker Neuson Group and thus assumes a central role in the Group. As the parent company, it holds the shares in the members of the Wacker Neuson Group directly or indirectly and is represented in Germany through approximately General background 70 controlled sales and service stations. The parent company’s Executive Board is responsible for managing the Group. As a rule, the executive bodies of the affiliates report directly to Group management. II. General background Overall economic trends Global downturn in 2008 Our segment reporting is divided into primary reporting by region (Europe, Americas and Asia) and secondary reporting by business segment (light equipment, compact equipment and services). Overall economic climate negatively impacted by global fi nancial and credit crisis German economy on the brink of recession in second half of the year according to experts With the exception of our affiliates Kramer-Werke GmbH, Weidemann GmbH and Drillfix AG, which retain their original names, all significant operating affiliates now trade under the common name of “Wacker Neuson”. Corporate governance and value management To guarantee an effective internal controlling system, the Wacker Neuson Group controlling department manages and monitors deviations between ‘to be’ and ‘as is’ figures from affiliates primarily based on their EBIT margins along with the development and tracking of necessary measures, and prepares the consolidated monthly reports for the Executive Board. Project decisions relating to changing market and customer requirements are taken by various committees composed of members of the Executive Board, plus representatives from company management, research and development, product management, quality management, service, and strategic procurement. The global economic climate deteriorated significantly during the course of 2008, with numerous industries experiencing a downturn at the end of the year. Joint surveys by leading economic research institutes have listed the following factors that – in addition to the global financial and credit crisis – compounded this situation: a worldwide rise in inflation fuelled by raw material prices, high energy prices, substantial real estate market price adjustments in numerous countries, and appreciation of the euro. Towards the end of the year, the outlook for the growth regions of Central and Eastern Europe, Russia, Latin America, Australia and Asia was also clouded. According to a report by the IMF (International Monetary Fund) published in February 2009, global GDP rose by 3.4 percent in 2008 (previous year: 5.2 percent) with world trade volume projected to grow at 4.1 percent (previous year: 7.2 percent). GDP Due to our high level of investment activity in fiscal 2008 to secure our lasting growth, profit before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) is an important indicator of company performance. Investments in expanding our rental pool in Central and Eastern Europe, in particular, initially result in high depreciation. Alongside ongoing rental income, the sale of rental equipment also makes a – delayed – contribution to earnings here. Rented light equipment is usually sold after an average of two to four years, compact equipment after an average of six. Real change from previous year in % Germany 2008 2007 1.3 2.5 Europe (Western and Central Europe) 1.4 2.9 Russia 6.3 8.1 USA 1.1 2.0 China 9.4 11.5 Japan 0.2 2.1 Source: Joint report from leading research institues 31 32 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Changes key currencies against Euro (Annual average rates) Change 2008 2007 in % US dollar (USD) 1.4741 1.3790 + 6.9% British pound (GBP) 0.8038 0.6873 + 17.0% Swiss franc (CHF) 1.5786 1.6461 - 4.1% 151.4825 162.0433 - 6.5% 1 Euro equals Japanese yen (JPY) Source: Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Economic developments in the US were particularly hard hit by the banking and subprime crisis, leading above all to increased unemployment and a drop in equipment and residential construction investments. Demand for goods from abroad also fell significantly throughout the course of the year. This was further compounded by the US dollar’s considerable drop in value in the first six months of the year. According to experts, US GDP rose by 1.1 percent in real terms (previous year: 2.0 percent). Economic growth in 2008 only slowed slightly in Canada and Latin America. Brazil, Chile and Argentina in particular remained dynamic due to a number of reasons, including healthy domestic demand. Economic experts report that emerging economies in Asia initially followed a stable, robust growth path in 2008, which leveled out toward the end of the year. Expansion levels in China slowed only slightly. Here, the GDP estimate is 9.4 percent (previous year: 11.5 percent). In Japan, experts predict a drop in exports for the first time in three years due to a decrease in demand from the US and Europe. Real GDP growth is estimated at just 0.2 percent (previous year: 2.1 percent). In contrast, India is expected to have maintained a healthy rate of expansion, with a 7 percent real increase in GDP (previous year: 9 percent). Economic performance also remained strong in East Asia, with experts reckoning with an estimated real GDP growth of 4.5 percent (previous year: 5 percent). Britain. Prosperous economies in Eastern European EU member states also started to slag. Ifo predicted a real GDP growth rate of 4.6 percent here. GDP in Russia rose significantly during the first half of 2008, only to slow down toward the end of the year. Real GDP is expected to have grown by 6.3 percent (previous year: 8.1 percent). The substantial downturn in growth in the German economy during 2008 was due in part to the appreciation of the euro plus a drastic drop in demand for capital equipment from abroad and a resultant fall in investment activities. A period of growth in the first half of the year was followed by a period of decline in the subsequent six months. The German Federal Statistical Office reports that the economy grew overall by just 1.3 percent (previous year: 2.5 percent). Overview of construction and agricultural industries Global economic downturn has long-term impact on national construction industries Construction industries in the US and Europe particularly affected Following strong start to year, German construction industry faces increasingly pronounced drop in orders The economic climate cooled dramatically in Europe over the course of the year. Developments on finance and real estate markets slowed growth in all euro-zone countries. The aggregated GDP growth rate in the European Union (EU) totaled 1.4 percent in real terms (previous year: 2.9 percent), and 0,9 percent in the euro zone (previous year: 2.6 percent). In Western Europe, export growth in particular declined, and GDP failed to increase any further. 2008 saw the end of years of economic upturn in Spain and Great The pronounced global economic downturn resulting from the subprime crisis also had a negative impact on national construction industries in 2008. US and European construction companies in particular have felt the long-term effects. The change in market dynamics led to increased competition in these regions. General background Falling real estate prices in the US squeezed residential construction investment. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) expects an 8.6 percent drop in US sales for 2008. For equipment weighing up to 3 tons (light equipment), the association is reckoning with a drop of 10.7 percent. Fewer building permits were issued and construction projects started for single-family houses in 2008. The U.S. Census Bureau reported a 22.8 percent year-onyear drop in residential construction investment at the end of November. In contrast, investments in non-residential and industrial construction rose by 9.2 percent over the same period. Total construction investment volume over the year was thus down 3.3 percent. At the end of November, residential construction accounted for 39.1 percent of total investment volume, and the non-residential and industrial segment for 60.9 percent. Construction remained buoyant in Asia in 2008. The Olympic Games in Beijing fuelled construction investments in China. The construction sector in India also experienced an upturn, although growth rates slowed here towards the end of the year in comparison with the previous year. In Europe, the mild 2007/2008 winter meant that a large number construction investment projects were pulled forward. According to the Euroconstruct network, the crisis hit the Western European construction market full force mid 2008. As a result, the number of building permits issued – an early indicator of construction demand – fell in many euro-zone countries. Revenue generated by the European construction industry was down 2.5 percent in 2008 (previous year: up by 2.0 percent). The European non-residential segment increased slightly, driven by commercial and underground construction, which was up 1.4 percent in 2008. Euroconstruct experts forecast a rise in European underground projects of around 2 percent, making 2008 the twelfth consecutive year of expansion in this segment. The European housing market deteriorated considerably during the course of the year. Value adjustments on real estate dampened construction activity and investments. Spain, Great Britain and Ireland in particular experienced a drop in new housing developments, as well as falling prices and increasing numbers of empty apartments and houses. Euroconstruct thus anticipates a downturn of 6.9 percent in European residential construction for 2008. The construction industry in Eastern Europe grew, fuelled by a number of factors including EU subsidies as well as public funds aimed at extending infrastructure. Measures here include the expansion of road, rail and telecommunications networks. The mild winter in Germany was a key driver of construction investments during the first quarter of 2008. According to industry federations, revenue generated by the construction industry from January through October was up 7.3 percent on the same period for the previous year, primarily fuelled by commercial and public construction projects and investments. However, the construction industry in Germany followed a moderate growth path overall during 2008 due to the global downturn. Leading economic institutes expect construction investments to increase by a total of 2 percent and investments in residential construction to rise by 1.5 percent. Euroconstruct reports a 2 percent rise in underground construction in Germany as a result of infrastructure projects. At the start of November, the German Association of Machinery and Plant Construction (VDMA) still anticipated revenue in construction and building materials to rise 8.6 percent to EUR 16.6 billion for 2008. However, order intake in the construction equipment sector in particular fell dramatically throughout the course of the year, with domestic orders for construction equipment dropping by more than 40 percent in November 2008. Agricultural industry continues to gain in importance in 2008 Over the last few years, the agricultural industry has gained in importance worldwide. As the world’s population increases, so does the need for food. This in turn drove demand for agricultural machinery in 2008, an effect particularly felt in Europe, South America and emerging economies in Asia. The rising importance of biofuels, in other words sourcing energy from renewable raw materials, is also accentuating this trend. The structural shift in the agricultural industry is also playing a key role here, in particular in Eastern Europe. Agricultural operations are constantly decreasing in number while simultaneously becoming larger and more industrialized – a trend that is fuelling demand for machinery. The German agricultural machinery market has also seen double-digit growth rates over the last years. High demand for agricultural products has led German farmers to purchase new agricultural equipment. Simultaneously, producer prices (for 33 34 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 example for cereals) reached new heights at the start of 2008. In the US, however, prices for foodstuffs such as corn and wheat fell, while prices for fertilizer and animal feed rose. Competitive position Focus on light and compact equipment Continued leading position in the international construction industry General legal framework Additional pillar through business activities in the agricultural industry Protection for users and the environment Compliance with applicable regulations Integration of new regulations in process flows As a global manufacturer and provider of light and compact equipment, Wacker Neuson must observe numerous national and international statutory guidelines governing environmental and user protection. These include provisions regulating exhaust gas emissions, ergonomics, noise and vibration-induced impact. There are many European directives and regulations in this area. At Wacker, we implement new regulations and always aim to integrate these promptly in our process flows. During the period under review, we again ensured that new user and statutory requirements, such as environmental and user protection guidelines, were promptly integrated in our business processes. The Wacker Neuson WM 80 two-stroke engine used in our gasoline vibratory rammers and breakers is a prime example here. We significantly reduced the engine’s emissions levels, thus ensuring that it meets all current emissions guidelines worldwide. By reducing its hydrocarbon emissions (HC) by over 70 percent and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions by more than 50 percent, the engine is now well within the requirements set down in the August 2008 EU emissions directive. The requisite modifications to the engine’s exhaust system and cylinder resulted in increased research and development costs as well as outlay for adjusting our production processes in the US. In the year under review there were no changes to the legal or regulatory framework that had a major impact on business development. There were no meaningful changes to the heterogeneous competitive landscape surrounding the Wacker Neuson Group during fiscal 2008. In our assessment, the majority of our competitors offers product ranges that focus exclusively on either light or compact equipment, in most cases only on individual lines within these product fields. Developments on international construction markets led to a drop in order intake for almost all our competitors during the second half of 2008. Several manufacturers have reacted to the current situation by closing production sites and laying off staff, for example, or initiating and announcing similar measures. The competitive landscape in the compact equipment segment changed over the course of 2008. French manufacturer Manitou acquired its US competitor Gehl Company. Through this acquisition, Manitou hopes to gain access to the US market and benefit from the demand for compact equipment for the construction and agricultural industries there. Over the past fiscal year, the Wacker Neuson Group maintained its strong position against both international competitors and local providers. We continue to concentrate exclusively on light and compact equipment, differentiating ourselves clearly from DIY and heavy equipment suppliers. Our customers are predominantly active in nonresidential construction. Again, around 70 percent of our products were used primarily in new developments and infrastructure repairs, including underground and roadwork, non-residential and overground projects, and work on energy, water and telecommunications services. Business development in fiscal 2008 III. Business development in fiscal 2008 Deployment scenarios Non-residential/ Conditions for our products residential construction North America 65/35 South America 70/30 Europe 70/30 Asia 90/10 Oceania 60/40 February 2009 As a mid-sized company, we back up our high product and service standards with state-of-the-art production facilities, in-depth development and manufacturing know-how and an efficient sales network. This solid foundation has enabled a number of our products to achieve an excellent market position worldwide. The acquisition of the Weidemann Group in fiscal 2005 expanded the Wacker Neuson Group’s reach to certain segments within the agricultural machinery market. Weidemann GmbH’s strong performance has enabled it to maintain its position as a leading provider of articulated wheel loaders for the agricultural industry in Central Europe. Our KramerWerke GmbH affiliate also develops and manufactures equipment for the agricultural industry – in this case telescopic handlers, which are distributed by CLAAS Global Sales GmbH, a German agricultural machinery supplier under the CLAAS brand. The highly fragmented nature of the global construction equipment market and lack of official statistics prevents us from providing a detailed and meaningful overview of market shares. Difficult market conditions impact business trends in the Wacker Neuson Group Stable performance in agricultural machinery Revised sales and EBITDA forecast reached With the October 2007 merger with Neuson Kramer behind us, fiscal 2008 turned out to be a year of integration and market penetration. The first full fiscal year for the Wacker Neuson Group started with business developing as anticipated. While our service offering remained popular throughout the year, demand for light and compact construction equipment fell steadily over the course of the year as a knock-on effect of the showdown in construction markets in the US and Europe. In July, we responded to this downturn by revising our sales forecast and margin for profit before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) – originally before purchase price allocation – and succeeded in surpassing our adjusted goals through a consistent cost control policy. Long-term growth remains the focus of our strategies The reporting period witnessed important progress in the implementation of our forward-looking growth strategy. Our main focuses here were on measures resulting from the merger with Neuson Kramer. These included the launch of compact equipment in selected countries through our existing sales and service network, the expansion of rental business in Central and Eastern Europe by stocking our rental pool with products from our own production lines and modifying the color of light and compact equipment to align with the new corporate design. We forged ahead with the regional expansion of the Wacker Neuson Group and improved both the distribution system and the service offering in line with market demands. In the light equipment and compact equipment segments, we launched various new products and enhanced our product 35 36 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 portfolio to meet evolving customer needs. Wacker also made internal process improvements, for example in production and logistics, reducing sales, research, development and administration costs expressed as a percentage of revenue to 27.0 percent (previous year: 28.2 percent). Overall, we were thus successful in exploiting the market opportunities as arose under the prevailing economic and construction climate. We managed to expand our market position, thanks to a strong business model that is built on strong innovative drive, high product, rental and service quality, reliable spare parts business, efficient business processes, integrated customer care through our decentralized sales and service network, and, last but not least, qualitydriven market leadership. Unsatisfactory results Due to the sluggish global economy and the sharp downturn on international construction markets in the US and Western Europe, we adjusted our earnings projections downwards towards the middle of the year. Actual results aligned with these adjusted figures. As anticipated, product sales in the light equipment segment remained below the previous year’s level as a consequence of the US subprime crisis, which began to have an impact in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007. Unit sales of light equipment thus dropped sharply in the US and particularly in Western European countries, such as Spain and Great Britain, where rental chains form the bulk of our customer base. Revenue losses also resulted from the increased severity of last winter in comparison with the previous year and further devaluation of the US dollar. On target 1 Sales in ¤ million EBITDA margin in % Capital expenditure in € million Net financial debt 1 Target 2008 Actual 2008 min. 870.0 870.3 min. 11.0 11.6 appr. 100.0 101.8 appr. 50.0 59.0 After purchase price allocation (PPA) In contrast, the lively demand experienced by the compact equipment business segment in the previous year continued into the spring. However, this demand fell steadily over the second half of 2008, with market trends strongly impacting customer order patterns. To compensate for falling demand, we introduced a series of cost-cutting measures over the course of the year to keep selling expenses, R&D expenses and administrative costs in line with dwindling sales figures. Price increases also helped to counter market trends. We increased light equipment prices everywhere but the US by 3 percent from January 1, 2008. In the compact equipment business segment, we increased prices for Weidemann GmbH products by an average of 4.5 percent from January 1, 2008, due to higher material prices – raw materials included. Effective January 1, 2008, we increased the prices of wheel loaders and telescopic handlers by 3 percent and, effective April 1, 2008, we increased the prices of excavators, skid-steer loaders and dumpers by between 1.5 and 4.0 percent. At the beginning of 2008, we anticipated that sales for the Wacker Neuson Group would break the billion-euro mark and aimed to achieve profit before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) following purchase price allocation with a margin of at least 17 percent. These estimates were based on plans made in the run-up to the IPO in May 2007. Although steady growth in sales in the early months of the year gave us reason to stick to this fore cast, we responded to changing market dynamics and the threat of a business downturn towards the middle of the year and revised our forecast on July 31, 2008, aiming for sales of at least EUR 870 million and an EBITDA margin following purchase price allocation of at least 11 percent. This forecast was achieved through consistent cost management. In fiscal 2008, the Wacker Neuson Group recorded sales growth of 17.3 percent to EUR 870.3 million (previous year: EUR 742.1 million) as a result of the merger. EBITDA following purchase price allocation fell 13.7 percent from EUR 117.0 million to EUR 100.9 million. The EBITDA margin following purchase price allocation thus amounted to 11.6 percent (previous year: 15.8 percent). Lively demand for agricultural products from Weidemann GmbH Our affiliate Weidemann GmbH enjoyed positive results last year. Sales grew 27.0 percent from EUR 84.7 million to EUR 107.5 million as a result of brisk demand from the agricultural industry. Our business also benefited from the tendency towards larger holdings and the associated rise in rationalization investments. Business development in fiscal 2008 Acquired in 2006, Ground Heaters, Inc., a leading player in the North American market for portable hydronic heating equipment for the construction industry with headquarters in Spring Lake, Michigan, US, was integrated in the business of the Group’s American affiliate, Wacker Neuson Corporation, during the course of the year and is no longer reported separately. The second quarter saw completion of the facilities in both Pfullendorf (Germany) and Norton Shores (US) ahead of the scheduled production start-up date. Products manufactured in Norton Shores include portable hydronic heating equipment and light towers. The investment volume totaled around USD 10.0 million. If necessary, this production plant can be expanded to meet future increases in demand. Our merger partner Neuson Kramer was consolidated for the first time on October 1, 2007. Fiscal 2008 was therefore the first fully integrated fiscal year. The Neuson Kramer subgroup felt in particular the effects of falling demand for compact equipment in the second half of 2008. Sales (Expenditure Format) over the entire fiscal year nonetheless increased 2.5 percent from EUR 329.9 million (for the period from February 1 through December 31, 2007) to EUR 338.2 million. Profit before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) fell 19.7 percent to EUR 47.0 million (previous year: EUR 58.6 million). This corresponded to an EBITDA margin of 13.9 percent (previous year: 17.8 percent). Our affiliate Kramer-Werke GmbH’s new plant in Pfullendorf supplies wheel loaders and telescopic handlers with allwheel steering. The new site has more than doubled the production capacity of the previous Kramer site in Überlingen. The Wacker Neuson Group earmarked over EUR 30 million for investment in the new 30,000 m2 production site, approximately EUR 20 million of which was spent in 2008. In Munich, demolition of old factory facilities was completed, making space for the new research and development center and company headquarters. Construction work began in July 2008 and will be completed in stages between now and 2011. Key fi gures Neuson Kramer subgroup in ¤ K 2008 20071 Sales 338,199 329,924 EBITDA 47,040 58,591 EBIT 40,274 54,511 26,470 35,617 Profit before discontinued operations and minority interests 1 At its meeting on July 4, 2008, the Supervisory and Executive Boards jointly resolved to purchase a site in the Austrian district of Hörsching, in close proximity to Linz airport. This could potentially be used for a new manufacturing plant to replace the previous production facility. The company has not yet decided whether to proceed with the construction work. 11 months only (February 1– December 31) New affiliate in India During the first quarter of 2008, our new affiliate, Wacker Neuson Equipment Private Ltd., opened according to plan. Headquartered in Bangalore, India, this affiliate will work with several sales and service stations across the country to distribute the company’s extensive product and service offering. Construction work successfully completed All Wacker Neuson Group construction work was completed as planned. Our European training center at the Reichertshofen production site and new manufacturing plant in Manila (Philippines) commenced operations at the start of 2008, close behind completion of the new Weidemann GmbH plant in Korbach in November 2007. The Manila plant significantly expands our production capacity, allowing us to meet medium-term growth in demand on the Asian market quickly and efficiently. At a Supervisory Board meeting on November 6, 2008, the Executive and Supervisory Boards resolved to close their production plant in Tredegar (Wales, Great Britain) due to the downturn in demand for four-wheel dumpers. The Group is transferring production from Tredegar to its plant in Linz (Austria). This process will be completed in spring 2009 and the Group company Wacker Neuson Rhymney Ltd. will then be dissolved. The shutdown in Wales resulted in around 90 job losses and costs of approximately EUR 1 million. Group management took care to devise socially responsible solutions for the staff affected by the layoffs. 37 38 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Key resolutions at the 2008 AGM Active capital market communication and share trends During the AGM on June 3, 2008 in Munich, shareholders approved the proposal of the Executive and Supervisory Boards to change the company’s legal form to a Societas Europaea (SE) and its name to Wacker Neuson SE. The necessary legal steps to execute this were taken during the course of the fiscal year. The name was entered in the German Register of Companies on February 18, 2009. In fiscal 2008, the Executive Board regularly made an active effort to keep stakeholders updated on current company developments. They accomplished this through a variety of channels, including the AGM, investor conferences and national and international roadshows. Our Internet presence was expanded for analysts and investors. Share price trends in 2008 reflected current developments on the international financial markets. While our share was listed at EUR 14.62 at the start of the year, it had fallen to EUR 6.19 year-end. The shareholders also approved the proposal to pay out a dividend of EUR 0.27 along with a bonus of EUR 0.23, which brings the total to EUR 0.50 per eligible share (for a total number of 70.14 million eligible shares) compared with EUR 0.62 last year (for a total of 39.15 million eligible shares). In total therefore, the company will be paying out EUR 35.07 million (previous year: EUR 24.27 million). Executive and Supervisory Board members’ actions were officially approved for fiscal 2007. Implementation of an employee stock program During the course of the year, the Executive and Supervisory Boards resolved to launch an Employee Stock Purchase Plan for employees who did not have the opportunity to purchase discounted stock at the time of the IPO in May 2007. This applies to all employees at non-German affiliates and KramerWerke GmbH. All Wacker Neuson Group employees – with the exception of those already able to purchase discounted shares at the IPO – received a net subsidy of 15 percent from their employer on the purchase of company stock. Any applicable income tax and social security contributions payable on that amount are covered by the company. The maximum number of shares subsidized was the same as the employee would have been able to purchase at a discounted rate under the specific limits imposed at the IPO. Around 100 employees availed of this program between November 15 and December 31, 2008. A total of 37,192 shares have thus been purchased under this program. Dividend per share in € (for fi scal year) 2008 2007 2006 2005 1 0.50 0.38 0.27 0.19 1 Dividend payment proposed at the AGM on May 28, 2009 Additional information1 in € million 2008 2008 2008 2007 2007 without PPA2 PPA with PPA with PPA3 with PPA4 Sales 870.3 – 870.3 742.1 979.5 EBITDA pro-forma 1 102.2 1.3 100.9 117.0 157.4 EBITDA margin as a % 11.7 – 11.6 15.8 16.1 EBIT 64.1 6.1 58.0 78.9 112.6 EBIT margin as a % 7.4 – 6.7 10.6 11.5 Profit for the period 41.9 4.5 37.4 54.1 75.0 You will find more information in the table on pages 128-129. 2 PPA = Purchase price allocation. Purchase price allocation describes the process where purchase costs resulting from acquisitions are allocated to individually acquired assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities, which are measured at fair value. 3 Including Q4 Neuson Kramer subgroup (start of consolidation: October 1, 2007) 4 Pro-forma figures: as if Wacker and Neuson Kramer subgroup had been consolidated for the entirety of fiscal 2007. Profit, finances and assets IV. Profit, finances and assets The report on profit, finances and assets covers a total of 42 Group companies including the Group parent, Wacker Neuson SE (previous year: 43). Following initial consolidation of our merger partner Neuson Kramer on October 1, 2007, the results of Neuson Kramer were consolidated in full for the first time as of the first quarter of 2008. This explanation of profit, finances and assets/liabilities presents the accumulated Wacker Neuson Group financial data for the entire financial year, taking purchase price allocation into account, and contrasts it with Wacker subgroup financial data for fiscal 2007, including fourth-quarter figures from the Neuson Kramer subgroup. For comparison, we also include fiscal 2007 pro-forma figures following purchase price allocation for key indicators, thus presenting the Group as if it had been consolidated for the entirety of fiscal 2007. In the IFRS consolidated financial statements, the assets of the Neuson Kramer subgroup were realized at fair value as of October 1, 2007 as part of the initial consolidation. This resulted in an increase in the cost of sales under inventories plus increased depreciation and amortization under order volume and technology, for instance. The impact of these changes became effective in fiscal 2008 and are referred to as effects of purchase price allocation in the following. Results for the previous fiscal year were also influenced by the high levels of Group investment and sales activities. A significant volume of compact equipment from our own production facilities was delivered to the rental and demo fleets of other Group-owned companies. As a result, this equipment did not generate the proceeds that would normally be achieved through sales to external companies in the period under review. Income Statement 2008 in comparison to 2007 and 2007 pro-forma in € K 2008 2007 2007 incl. Q4 with PPA Revenue Cost of sales Gross profit Sales and service expenses Neuson Kramer pro-forma with PPA with PPA 870,331 742,062 979,534 - 576,885 - 459,530 - 633,080 293,446 282,532 346,454 - 156,486 - 140,090 - 153,542 Research and development expenses - 25,056 - 20,810 - 26,719 General administrative expenses - 53,487 - 48,289 - 60,505 Other income 11,023 8,421 11,042 - 11,451 - 2,859 - 4,098 Profit before interest and tax (EBIT) 57,989 78,905 112,632 Financial result - 2,308 - 660 - 2,178 Profit before tax (EBT) 55,681 78,245 110,454 - 17,576 - 24,142 - 34,928 38,105 54,103 75,526 - 716 23 - 484 0 0 -3 37,389 54,126 75,039 Other expenses Taxes on income Profit for the period before minority interests Minority interests Result from discontinued operations Profit for the period Depreciation and amortization EBITDA 42,954 38,083 44,783 100,943 116,988 157,415 39 40 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Profit Revenue growth following the merger Fall in sales, research, development and administration costs expressed as a percentage of revenue Profit affected by market dynamics Wacker Neuson Group revenue and earnings reflected the adverse market developments in fiscal 2008. Nevertheless, revenue grew 17.3 percent to EUR 870.3 million as a result of the merger (previous year: EUR 742.1 million). Adjusted to discount currency fluctuations, this corresponds to an increase of 20.2 percent. Based on pro-forma figures, sales for the consolidated Group amounted to EUR 979.5 million in 2007. The cost of sales rose to EUR 576.9 million (previous year: EUR 459.5 million). This is attributable to the merger. Over the course of the year, we were able to absorb the H1 price increases in raw materials, particularly steel, mainly thanks to long-term contracts. Based on pro-forma figures, the cost of sales for the consolidated Group amounted to EUR 633.1 million the previous year. Gross profit on revenue grew as a result of the merger to EUR 293.4 million (previous year: EUR 282.5 million). The gross profit margin amounted to 33.7 percent (previous year: 38.1 percent). This reduction is attributable to the increased role played by the compact equipment business segment, which typically realizes a lower gross profit margin but also reports lower selling expenses. The margins here are also lower than in the light equipment segment due to a multiplestage sales system in the agricultural market. Based on pro-forma figures, gross profit for the consolidated Group amounted to EUR 346.5 million in 2007 (gross profit margin: 35.4 percent). Fall in administrative costs expressed as a percentage of revenue We introduced and implemented cost-cutting measures in the second half of fiscal 2008 to align cost structures with the downturn in business activities. The full impact of these cost-efficiency measures will not be felt till fiscal 2009. Expressed as a percentage of revenue, selling expenses, plus R&D and administrative costs were nevertheless down to 27.0 percent (previous year: 28.2 percent). Selling expenses rose by 11.7 percent to EUR 156.5 million (previous year: EUR 140.1 million). This increase is attributable to the merger and new hires to support our expanding sales and rental activities, particularly in Eastern Europe. Here it should be noted that the selling expenses as a percentage of revenue have dropped to 18.0 percent for the new merged company relative to the Wacker Group for the same period last year as a result of the dealer network operated by Neuson Kramer (previous year: 18.9 percent). Based on pro-forma figures, sales and service expenses amounted to EUR 153.5 million in the previous year. Research and development costs were up 20.4 percent to EUR 25.1 million (previous year: EUR 20.8 million) due to the merger. A total of EUR 3,7 million in development costs was capitalized by all manufacturing companies in the past fiscal year. In relation to sales, the R&D ratio rose slightly to 2.9 percent, in comparison with 2.8 percent the previous year. Based on pro-forma figures, the consolidated Group’s expenditure in this area amounted to EUR 26.7 million in the previous year. General administrative costs increased by 10.8 percent to EUR 53.5 million (previous year: EUR 48.3 million) as a result of an increase in the workforce following the merger, the expansion of activities in Eastern Europe and merger costs, including those involved in renaming the affiliates to “Wacker Neuson”. Expressed as percentage of revenue, administrative costs were at 6.1 percent (previous year: 6.5 percent). Based on pro-forma figures, the administrative expenses for the consolidated Group amounted to EUR 60.5 million in the previous year. Administrative expenses as % of sales 2008 6.1 2007 6.5 Sales, development and administration costs as % of sales 2008 27.0 2007 28.2 Profit, finances and assets The 30.9 percent increase in other operating income to EUR 11.0 million (previous year: EUR 8.4 million) is attributable to a rise in exchange rate gains. Other operating expenses grew to EUR 11.5 million (previous year: EUR 2.9 million). The difference is attributable to exchange losses of EUR 6 million on the previous year and a value adjustment on real estate held by the English Group member Wacker Neuson Rhymney Ltd. Profit impacted by downturn in unit sales, stocking of our own rental and demo fleets and purchase price allocation Taking purchase price allocation into account, profit before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) fell 13.7 percent from EUR 117.0 million to EUR 100.9 million in spite of the merger. The EBITDA margin amounted to 11.6 percent (previous year: 15.8 percent). Discounting purchase price allocation, EBITDA decreased to EUR 102.2 million (previous year: EUR 119.6 million), resulting in an EBITDA margin of 11.7 percent. The effects of purchase price allocation totaled EUR 1.3 million. Based on pro-forma figures, consolidated EBITDA in the previous year amounted to EUR 157.4 million (EBITDA margin: 16.1 percent). Depreciation and amortization increased 12.8 percent to EUR 43.0 million (previous year: EUR 38.1 million). This was primarily due to the merger, increased investment in the Central and Eastern European rental business, capacity expansion and purchase price allocation. Based on pro-forma figures, depreciation and amortization for the consolidated Group amounted to EUR 44.8 million in the previous year. Profit before interest and tax (EBIT) taking purchase price allocation into account dropped 26.5 percent to EUR 58.0 million (previous year: EUR 78.9 million). The EBIT margin dropped to 6.7 percent (previous year: 10.6 percent). The effects of purchase price allocation amounted to EUR 6.1 million. Discounting purchase price allocation, EBIT decreased to EUR 64.1 million (previous year: EUR 90.4 million), corresponding to an EBIT margin of 7.4 percent. Based on pro-forma figures, consolidated EBIT amounted to EUR 112.6 million in the previous year (EBIT margin: 11.5 percent). Earnings were impacted particularly by exchange rate fluctuations as well as by the effects of the elimination of interim profit and merger costs. The euro’s advance against the dollar in comparison with the previous year with an average exchange rate of EUR 1 to USD 1.4741 (previous year: EUR 1 to USD 1.3790) and the exchange rate fluctuations of other currencies had an impact on profit to the tune of 2.6 million. The financial result amounted to EUR - 2.3 million (previous year: EUR - 0.7 million). This result is attributable to the high volatility of the financial markets and its impact on company investments. Profit before tax (EBT) fell 28.8 percent to EUR 55.7 million (previous year: EUR 78.2 million). Based on pro-forma figures, the consolidated financial result amounted to EUR - 2.2 million in the previous year and EBT was EUR 110.5 million. Tax expenditure decreased to EUR 17.6 million (previous year: 24.1). The tax ratio increased slightly to 31.6 percent from 30.9 percent the previous year. Allowing for purchase price allocation, profit for the period amounted to EUR 37.4 million, 30.9 percent below the previous year’s result of EUR 54.1 million. The effects of purchase price allocation totaled EUR 4.5 million. Based on pro-forma figures, the consolidated profit amounted to EUR 75.0 million in the previous year. Based on a weighted average number of ordinary shares in circulation during the period of 70.14 million, earnings per share totaled EUR 0.53 (previous year: EUR 1.10 with 49.2 million shares). In view of the current market climate’s impact on earnings, the Executive and Supervisory Boards of Wacker Neuson SE will propose a dividend of EUR 0.19 per eligible share at the AGM on May 28, 2009 (based on a total of 70.14 million eligible shares). Last year the company paid out EUR 0.50 for each of its eligible shares. In total therefore, the company will be paying out EUR 13.33 million (compared with EUR 35.07 million last year). The distribution ratio pans out at approximately 32 percent based on the Group profit before purchase price allocation in the amount of EUR 41.9 million. 41 42 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Finances Stable liquidity situation within the Group Future credit lines and terms confirmed Reduction of working capital planned Financial management at the Wacker Neuson Group strikes a healthy balance between financial security, return on equity and earnings. As part of this policy, we draw on set balance sheet ratios and key indicators to manage our financing needs. Our aim is to fund day-to-day operations with operative cash flow as far as possible. We invest any financial surplus promptly and securely to capitalize on the prevailing interest rates and use such funds subsequently to finance further growth. For investments, depending on the type in question, we make targeted use of special financing options. The Wacker Neuson Group uses standard financial instruments such as foreign exchange forward contracts and interest rate swaps exclusively for hedging purposes and to minimize risks. Financial instruments without a corresponding underlying transaction are not carried out. perty, plant and equipment in fiscal 2008 (previous year: EUR 81.6 million). This included both the expansion of the sales and rental station network in Eastern Europe, and the replacement of compact equipment in the rental fleet with high-quality proprietary products, which alone accounted for investments to the sum of EUR 34.0 million. It also reflects ongoing measures to expand capacity at new manufacturing plants in Norton Shores (US) and Pfullendorf (Germany), as well as the construction of a new research and development center in Munich (Germany). When considering these figures, it should be noted that only investments that have been paid are recognized in the cash flow from investment activities. Items from fiscal 2007 that were not paid until fiscal 2008 have been added to investments per fixed asset schedule. Investments per fixed asset schedule, including the merger, amounted to EUR 90.6 million in fiscal 2008 (previous year: EUR 108.1 million). Investments (extract) in € million 2008 Expansion of rental business in Central and Eastern Europe 34.0 Construction of new production plant for Ground Heaters, Inc, Norton Shores, USA 6.4 Construction of Kramer Allrad new production Liquidity management’s main objective is to ensure financial solvency plant in Pfullendorf, Germany The main objective of liquidity management is to ensure the financial solvency of the Wacker Neuson Group at all times. To this end, the Wacker Group maintains a cash pool in which almost all its companies participate. The accumulated cash pool balance provides participants with necessary financial resources up to an individually fixed limit. Participants who make positive deposits receive interest equivalent to market conditions for the respective currency. ment center in Munich, Germany Cash flow and liquidity Cash flow from operating activities reached EUR 31.1 million at the end of the fiscal year (previous year: EUR 55.0 million). Cash flow from investment activities came to EUR - 9.5 million in the reporting period (previous year: EUR - 141.8 million). The following factors in particular contributed to this drop: proceeds from the sale of marketable securities, acquired the previous year for EUR 85.7 million, plus the high level of investment activity. We invested EUR 93.1 million in pro- 34.8 Construction of new research and develop5.5 Cash flow from financing activities totaled EUR - 21.9 million (previous year: EUR 96.4 million). The previous year’s figure was primarily due to the issue of new shares generating net proceeds to the value of EUR 165 million. Outlays included dividend payments of EUR 35.3 million and longterm bank-loan repayments amounting to EUR 5.4 million, accompanied by new, short-term loans to the value of EUR 19.1 million. Free cash flow totaled EUR 23.4 million in the last fiscal year (previous year: EUR 62.1 million). Free cash flow is made up of cash flow from operating activities, and from investment activities without changes to the consolidation structure, plus amounts accruing from the issue of new shares including the costs of raising capital. Cash holdings fell in 2008 from EUR 38.8 million to EUR 37.3 million. Profit, finances and assets Assets Statement of free cash fl ow changes in € K 2008 2007 31,133 54,980 Cash flow from operating activities - 9,469 - 141,754 + 1,771 - 10,572 - 69 - 5,582 0 + 165,000 23,366 62,072 Change in consolidation structure Costs of procuring capital Issue of new shares Free cash flow Share capital unchanged Long-term borrowings down Cash flow from investment activities Balance sheet total slightly down Current liquidity needs can be met through a combination of our own liquid assets and the credit lines extended to Wacker Neuson by credit institutes. At the closing date, less than half of all short- and long-term credit lines had been drawn. Despite the current financial crisis, the Group still has sufficient credit lines from German and international credit institutions to meet future liquidity requirements. These can be drawn on as and when required. The distribution of total borrowings among multiple banks means we are not dependent on individual lenders. This is an effective response to financial market uncertainty, guarding us against the risk of collapse of a credit institute and the associated loss of a credit line. We are also seeing higher interest charges as a result of increased bank margins, although these should be partly compensated for by the lower interest rate level. In addition to reducing the working capital, the balance sheet structure offers further options for securing liquidity insofar as these are deemed necessary. Working capital At EUR 303.9 million, working capital was up 11.9 percent in comparison with December 31, 2007 (previous year: EUR 273.2 million) due to the merger. Inventory increased to EUR 217.0 million (previous year: EUR 175.1 million) due to the global slowdown in product demand, particularly in the compact equipment business segment. Trade payables dropped 48.8 percent to EUR 32.3 million (previous year: EUR 63.1 million), thanks primarily to the speed with which production was able to respond to the downturn in demand. Trade receivables consequently dropped 26.1 percent to EUR 119.2 million (previous year: EUR 161.2 million). Working capital fell in relation to sales from 36.8 percent in the previous year to 34.9 percent. The balance sheet total fell during the last fiscal year to EUR 1,178.6 million (previous year: EUR 1,214.5 million). Assets rose to EUR 703.6 million (previous year: EUR 651.5 million). This is due in particular to an increase in property, plant and equipment to EUR 272.9 million (previous year: EUR 221.9 million). The slight increase in goodwill to EUR 326.1 million (previous year: EUR 325.7 million) is attributable to the effects of foreign currency fluctuations. Intangible assets fell to EUR 98.4 million (previous year: EUR 100.2 million). Finished products increased to EUR 159.1 million (previous year: EUR 114.0 million) due to the global slowdown in product demand. Current assets dropped to EUR 428.6 million (previous year: EUR 517.5 million) due to changes in marketable securities. High equity ratio Equity remained almost unchanged in the reporting period at EUR 911.8 million (at December 31, 2007: EUR 912.7 million). The company’s share capital remained constant at EUR 70.14 million. This resulted in an equity ratio of 77.4 percent (at December 31, 2007: 75.2 percent). In our view, it is thus still at a high level for the industry. Total non-current liabilities dropped 6.6 percent to EUR 100.1 million (previous year: EUR 107.1 million). While longterm borrowings dropped to EUR 38.8 million (previous year: EUR 44.2 million), primarily attributable to repayment of bank loans, long-term provisions at EUR 29.3 million remained at almost the same level as last year (previous year: EUR 29.2 million). Deferred tax posted as liabilities dropped to EUR 32.0 million (previous year: EUR 33.7 million). 43 44 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 At EUR 166.7 million, total current liabilities are down 14.4 percent (previous year: EUR 194.6 million). This is mainly due to a fall in trade payables. Balance sheet structure Assets in € million 2008 63.6% 36.4% 1,178.6 2007 57.4% 42.6% 1,214.5 Non-current assets Current assets Summary of profit, fi nances and assets In summary, Group management welcomes the results for the last fiscal year as further strengthening the company’s healthy financial position. Despite the challenging market situation, the Wacker Neuson Group’s financial position is healthy, based on a relatively high equity ratio and a low net financial debt compared with its peers. V. Reporting by region Equity and liabilities Market dynamics affect product sales in the in € million Europe and Americas regions 2008 77.4% 8.5% 14.1% 1,178.6 2007 75.2% 8.8% 16.0% 1,214.5 Equity Non-current liabilities Net fi nancial debt Dec. 31, 2008 - 38,845 - 44,219 Current borrowings from banks - 81,742 - 72,103 Current portion of non-current liabilities - 5,876 - 6,073 Marketable securities + 1,894 + 88,656 + 65,600 + 76,816 - 58,969 43,077 Total With its broad product portfolio and high-quality services, the Wacker Neuson Group not only supplies construction companies who use the equipment themselves, but also dealers, rental organizations and importers across the globe. Our segment reporting provides an overview of business development divided into primary reporting by region (Europe, Americas and Asia) and secondary reporting by business segment (light equipment, compact equipment and services). Dec. 31, 2007 Non-current liabilities Cash and cash equivalents Lively demand from the agricultural industry Current liabilities The net financial debt at December 31, 2008 amounted to EUR 59 million (balance at December 31, 2007: + 43.1 net financial assets). To calculate net financial debt, please refer to item 30 in the notes, “Risk Management/Capital Management”. in € K Healthy demand for services While sales in the Asia region and services segment developed positively, sales in the Europe and Americas regions and the light equipment and compact equipment segments were negatively impacted by market trends. Sales by region in % (previous year) Asia 3.1 (3.4) Americas 19.2 (26.4) Europe 77.7 (70.2) Reporting by region Europe Positive performance in Eastern Europe Sales by region: Europe in € K 2008 676,153 2007 520,658 EBIT by region: Europe in € K 2008 45,774 2007 50,884 Europe was again the strongest sales driver in fiscal 2008. Fueled by the merger, sales rose 29.9 percent to EUR 676.2 million (previous year: EUR 520.7 million). Segment profit before interest and tax (EBIT) fell from EUR 50.9 million to EUR 45.8 million (- 10.0 percent). Investments by European construction companies dwindle The negative market trends resulting from the US subprime crisis shifted increasingly to Europe as the year wore on, hitting Western Europe’s leading construction markets in Spain and Great Britain with full force. Caution increased among construction companies across Europe and orders were deferred or even canceled. In addition, the relatively mild winter meant that major infrastructure projects were completed ahead of schedule, resulting in time lags with respect to follow-up projects. Heightened competition and increasing price erosion were the result. Although demand for light equipment remained below the previous year’s level throughout the entire year, demand for compact equipment targeted at the construction industry did not start to fall until the second half of 2008. The reporting period nevertheless saw healthy demand in this region both for services and for compact equipment targeted at the agricultural industry, in particular. Almost all affiliates in this region therefore saw sales fall in fiscal 2008. Our strong market presence, the depth and breadth of our product portfolio and superior rental, spare parts and repair services provided business momentum however, as did the positive results from Weidemann GmbH for products for the agricultural industry. Performance was positive in Switzerland, Austria, Eastern Europe and South Africa. In June, the UEFA European Soccer Championship was responsible at times for stopping construction work on Austrian infrastructure projects nationwide. In Eastern Europe, our affiliates benefited increasingly from healthy levels of construction activity, particularly infrastructure, modernization and residential construction projects. Our Russian affiliate saw a leap in sales of over 30.0 percent. To exploit market potential, we will continue to expand our sales activities and rental operations in Eastern Europe. New service stations were opened in Ceske Budejovice and Ostrau in the Czech Republic, in Szcecin, Krakow, Warsaw and Lodz in Poland as well as in St. Petersburg in Russia. The construction industry experienced a slowdown in fiscal 2008 in all Scandinavian countries apart from Sweden. Demand for portable hydronic heating equipment recently launched was healthy in the utility business field. The sales teams at our French, Spanish and Hungarian affiliates are now also responsible for distributing compact equipment. Our affiliate in South Africa benefited from renewed growth in the construction industry. Exports to the Middle East were slightly up on the previous year. German business remains stable and healthy Once again, Germany achieved the strongest sales in the Europe region last fiscal year. Business was initially very brisk on the German market. Despite ongoing construction work and numerous plans for commercial, highway and underground projects, construction activities fell steadily during the course of the year. This had a negative impact on the sale and rental of light and construction equipment. We nevertheless managed to hold onto our leading market position, ensuring customer proximity with over 70 sales and service stations. Other factors that had a positive impact include new products and our improved service offering. 45 46 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Americas Sales by region: Americas in € K 2008 166,936 2007 196,055 Demand for portable hydronic heating equipment from our US subsidiary, Ground Heaters, Inc., was healthy. Ground Heaters, Inc., which was acquired in 2006, ceased to exist as an independent entity on December 8, 2008 and was liquidated. Business activities were not affected, however, and were taken over by our affiliate Wacker Neuson Corporation. EBIT by region: Americas Positive trend in Canada and South America in € K Performance was positive in Canada. Performance was also positive in South America due to state-subsidized infrastructure projects and a flourishing mining industry. In Mexico, the impact of the US subprime crisis led to a downturn in business over the course of the year. In Canada, we concluded an agreement with the 4-Way Equipment Rentals company for distribution of our complete product portfolio. 2008 11,599 2007 25,761 As the year wore on, development in the Americas region was influenced more and more by the fluctuating euro/dollar parity and uncertainties on the US real estate and mortgage market. This resulted in a sharp drop in residential construction – stable investment levels in non-residential construction were unable to compensate for this adverse trend. Asia Sales by region: Asia in € K Despite increased sales efforts, overall sales fell 14.9 percent in fiscal 2008 to EUR 166.9 million (previous year: EUR 196.1 million). Segment profit before interest and tax (EBIT) totaled EUR 11.6 million (previous year: EUR 25.8 million). However, adjusted to reflect exchange rate fluctuations, sales in the Americas fell 9.0 percent. As in previous years, our US affiliate yielded the lion’s share of sales in the US. Considered in the local currency (US dollars), the US production and sales affiliate, Wacker Neuson Corporation, recorded revenue only 11.5 percent below the previous year’s level, despite increased exports to Europe and Asia. For our US affiliate, fiscal 2008 was furthermore characterized by numerous measures to launch compact equipment on the American market, including trade fairs showcasing our products and training courses. We are pleased to report that during the course of the year, the number of dealer distribution agreements for Wacker Neuson US products increased to over 30. In light of this development, we decided to rethink plans to establish a service station network on a franchise basis under our EQUIPRO start-up concept, and instead to entrust Wacker Neuson’s new dealers with service delivery. 2008 27,242 2007 25,349 EBIT by region: Asia in € K 2008 1,393 2007 3,105 Asia remains a growth market for Wacker Neuson, although serious demand for light and compact equipment is not expected to kick in until the usual five to ten years have lapsed since the initial infrastructure projects. The company is systematically preparing for rising demand and opened an affiliate in India in fiscal 2008. Sales growth in Asia In the Asia region, sales were up 7.5 percent on the previous year, from EUR 25.3 million to EUR 27.2 million. Segment profit before interest and tax (EBIT) fell 55.1 percent to EUR 1.4 million (previous year: EUR 3.1 million). Reporting by business segment Thanks to national infrastructure projects to expand the highway and railroad network, we enjoyed an increasingly positive trend in this region over the course of the year, although exchange rate fluctuations had an impact on revenue figures. In order to capitalize more effectively on the positive construction climate in this area, we strengthened our market presence in China by stepping up sales activities during the course of the year. Sales in China grew 47.0 percent despite a building freeze in major cities before and during the Olympic Games in Beijing. Performance also remained positive in Australia and New Zealand, but was down slightly in Japan and Thailand. VI. Reporting by business segment Product sales in both light and compact Light equipment The light equipment segment covers the Wacker Neuson Group’s activities within the business fields of concrete technology, soil and asphalt compaction, demolition and utility and covers the manufacture and sale of light equipment weighing up to approximately three metric tons. This is our core business, targeting professional light equipment users in mainstream construction, gardening and landscaping worldwide. Our customers are predominantly active in non-residential construction and mainly use our products in new developments and infrastructure repairs, but also in structural and commercial projects. Production is demanddriven with short delivery times of between 24 and 48 hours. The company therefore does not have an order backlog for this segment. Sales before discounts in this business segment fell 18.8 percent from EUR 408.2 million to EUR 331.4 million. This is attributable to decreased unit sales of new equipment to major customers, mainly in the US, Spain, France and Great Britain. equipment affected by market dynamics Services segment performs well Agricultural industry performs well Sales in the light and compact equipment segments was negatively impacted by market trends in fiscal 2008. The popularity of our service offering in the market is reflected in higher revenue from the services business segment. Since the Neuson Kramer subgroup does not produce light equipment, this is reflected in the Wacker subgroup figures. Following the merger, this segment accounts for 37.8 percent of total sales (before discounts) (previous year: 54.6 percent). Sales by business segment New products in € K Light Equipment 2008 2007 331,352 408,170 Compact Equipment 355,979 179,480 Services 188,507 159,657 Minus cash discounts = Total sales 5,507 5,245 870,331 742,062 We expanded our portfolio by launching 63 new products or product variants worldwide (previous year: 47). We introduced a number of technical innovations that comply with all the latest environmental and user protection statutory guidelines. Following in the footsteps of large breakers, we also reduced hand-arm vibrations from reversible vibratory plates. The company also launched an entirely redesigned version of the self-constructed two-stroke WM 80 engine for gasoline vibratory rammers and breakers. This engine satisfies all global emission guidelines. In the concrete technology business field, new launches included a new line of internal vibrators, new walk-behind and ride-on trowels as well as a rebar cutter product group. In the demolition business field, we launched a new range of floor saws and a new cut-off saw, whereas in the utility business segment, we introduced a range of new mobile generators and a portable hydronic heater. 47 48 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Compact products launched through the existing sales network Sales by business in % (previous year) Services 21.5 (21.4) Light Equipment 37.8 (54.6) Compact Equipment 40.7 (24.0) Compact equipment The compact equipment business segment covers the manufacture and sale of compact machinery weighing up to approximately 14 metric tons. In addition to all-wheel and articulated wheel loaders, the compact equipment segment features compact excavators, skid-steer loaders, telescopic handlers and dumpers as well as attachments. This segment recorded sales of EUR 356.0 million before discounts and including results from the Neuson Kramer subgroup – up 98.3 percent from EUR 179.5 million the previous year. In line with this, the proportion of total sales (before discounts) contributed by the compact equipment segment rose following the merger from 24.0 percent in the previous year to 40.6 percent. However, it should be noted that some of this compact equipment was used to stock our own rental pool and build up demo fleets, so this por tion of sales was not included in Group sales. It should also be noted that stocking our own rental pool does not in any way contribute to operating income. This will be achieved in the future by renting out these products. Performance in this business segment was characterized by very positive sales in the first half of 2008 and a rapid fall in demand as a result of prevailing market trends in the second half. Increasing reluctance to invest among rental companies and major customers resulted in the deferment and cancellation of orders. We are countering this development through special financing programs. At the closing date on December 31, 2008, accumulated orders for compact equipment for the construction and agricultural industries was thus 25 percent below the equivalent figure for the previous year. During the period under review, we also focused on launching compact equipment via our global sales and service network, primarily in Spain, Switzerland, Australia and the US. Customer feedback on our high-quality products has been very positive in these countries. We continue to innovate and improve the quality of this extensive portfolio, encompassing around 40 models. The Group’s proven Kippmatic technology was taken to the next level for compact excavators with the vertical digging system (VDS). This system enables the chassis to navigate differences in surface heights during excavation work. During the course of the year, two new skid-steer loader models and a number of new telescopic handler and wheel loader machine variants were launched under the Kramer Allrad and Weidemann brands. Growing demand for products for the agricultural industry Following the completion of Weidemann GmbH’s new production facility in Korbach at the end of 2007, 2008 witnessed increased efficiency in the production of articulated wheel loaders for the construction and agricultural industries as well as in the production of proven Hoftrac products for the agricultural industry. Thanks to strong demand fueled by modernization and rationalization investments from the agricultural industry, Weidemann GmbH sales grew 27.0 percent to EUR 107.5 million (previous year: EUR 84.7 million). Weidemann GmbH also introduced SAP on January 1, 2009. Demand was also positive for telescopic handlers from Kramer GmbH, distributed by CLAAS Global Sales GmbH. Services The services business segment encompasses the Wacker Neuson Group’s after-market (repair and maintenance) and rental business fields, each covering both light and compact equipment. Other factors that impacted on results Sales before discounts in this segment increased by 18.1 percent as a result of the merger, to EUR 188.5 million (previous year: EUR 159.7 million). This segment’s share of total sales (before discounts) was thus 21.5 percent following the merger (previous year: 21.4 percent). VII. Other factors that impacted on results Research and development New products and product variants developed Numerous new patent applications Services resonate strongly among customers In the after-market business field, our activities in the traditional repair and spare parts segment were once again right on track in 2008. We reduced lead times for repairs, improved our equipment pickup and delivery service from and to construction sites, intensified training for our service staff and opened a number of new sales and service stations. We were able to hold our own against independent workshops and construction machinery dealers. Sales in this business field grew from EUR 104.0 million to EUR 133.8 million (+ 28.7 percent). Training for service staff remains a high priority at Wacker Neuson. We also continued expanding our service business over the reporting period, particularly in Eastern Europe. Growing demand for rental equipment in Central and Eastern Europe The rental business in Central and Eastern Europe remained stable during the year under review, despite the difficult market conditions. Sales leveled out at around EUR 54.7 million, just 0.9 percent lower than the previous year’s level of EUR 55.2 million. Our strategy of equipping existing sales and service stations with more rental equipment and setting up new stations, particularly in Eastern Europe, is paying off here. In total, we invested EUR 34.0 million in replacing rental equipment and expanding our rental business in Central and Eastern Europe with products from Wacker Neuson production plants. Developments over the past year again confirmed that our customers view renting as a useful supplement to purchasing. Companies are attracted by the flexibility and attractive cost structure of renting. The trend for short-term contracts became more pronounced, with the number of daily rentals outweighing that of monthly or longer-term rentals. We have continued our strategy of supplying more rental equipment to sales and service stations and meeting the full spectrum of customer requirements with a wider product offering. Construction of a new research and development center in Munich has commenced The company’s research and development (R&D) departments are responsible for designing new products and continually enhancing existing models. Both lines of activity are inspired solely by end user needs. Our wide product offering enables operators to maximize the efficiency of construction processes, whether the machinery be bought or rented. Our development work over the last fiscal year was also aimed at lowering manufacturing costs. Our new and improved products combine high quality with costeffective deployment. We also consider ourselves pioneers for product safety and operator protection. The development departments for products in the light equipment segment are located in Munich (Germany), Milwaukee (US) and Manila (the Philippines). Products in the compact equipment segment under the Weidemann brand are developed at Weidemann GmbH headquarters in Diemelsee-Flechtdorf, with compact products under the Kramer Allrad and Wacker Neuson brands being developed at the respective production plants in Pfullendorf and Linz. The number of employees in the R&D departments for the last fiscal year was lower than the previous year, with just 261 employees (previous year: 270 employees). The R&D payroll mainly consists of mechanical engineers, technical engineers, technical drawers and other skilled workers. As we design basic versions for the global market and continually adapt them to meet country-specific requirements, we offer a vast range of product variants. In 2008, we launched 63 new developments and product variants worldwide (previous year: around 47). R&D expenditure for the reporting period rose 20.4 percent to EUR 25.1 million (previous year: EUR 20.8 million). This brought our R&D cost ratio up to 2.9 percent (previous year: 2.8 percent). 49 50 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Over the last fiscal year, we filed a total of 58 new trademark rights worldwide (previous year: 69 patents). 87 new trademark rights were awarded (previous year: 47 patents). We develop our employees through seminars on project management and design engineering, as well as external training courses. We also continued the expansion of our testing department by adding cutting-edge measurement and test stations. (Austria). In addition to these measures, short-time work will be initiated from fiscal 2009 in Reichertshofen and Linz, followed by Pfullendorf. As of December 31, 2008, we had 517 employees at these production sites (previous year: 511). As of the same date, a total of 1,031 employees were involved in production across the entire Group (previous year: 1,072). Process improvements implemented The research and development center in Munich currently under construction and due to be completed in 2011 will help to maintain a strong innovative drive and secure the high quality of our products in the light equipment segment. As part of the move to align our processes, we also held discussions with our suppliers. In addition, we have again improved our production and logistics processes to further reduce machining and wait times, and aligned our machinery pool with market requirements. Research and development expenditure Increased inventory in € million We reacted quickly to falling demand for our products by reducing output in our production plants. Despite our flexible structure, inventory nonetheless increased. However, we are able to produce single machines cost-effectively. Each machine that leaves one of our production plants is tested and the results documented for quality assurance purposes. 2008 25.1 2007 20.4 Production Production output flexibly adapted to demand Group-wide efficiency gains Short-time working introduced The market-related fall in demand for our products in fiscal 2008 resulted in a gradual drop in the utilization of our manufacturing facilities. This decline affected the fourth quarter of 2008 in particular. Our plants in Reichertshofen (Germany), Milwaukee, Spring Lake (both in the US) and Manila (the Philippines) – all sites where products in the light equipment segment are produced – were affected, as were manufacturing facilities for the compact equipment segment in Linz-Leonding (Austria) and Tredegar (Wales). Utilization of production plants owned by our affiliates Weidemann GmbH in Korbach and Kramer Werke GmbH in Pfullendorf reflected market dynamics in fiscal 2008, thanks to the fact that these plants produce agricultural products. Our strategy of flexibility proved a success in this situation. It allowed us to compensate for the economic downturn by lowering costs. We achieved this by employing fewer temporary workers, as well as reducing vacation and flexitime accounts. Market developments prompted us to close our production plant in Tredegar (Wales, Great Britain) and relocate production of our four-wheel dumpers to Linz We stepped up efforts to integrate spare parts production for the Group member Weidemann in the Reichertshofen plant. A total of 900 parts have already been introduced. We are currently considering partial transfer of spare parts production for Group member Kramer-Werke GmbH. The focus factory also took on contract work for the Groupowned steelwork company, Wacker Neuson Kragujevac d.o.o. in Serbia. Quality and sustainability Increased awareness surrounding sustainability Systematic implementation of quality processes Certified quality management system Over the past few years, the Wacker Neuson Group has been working to raise awareness in the company around the importance of sustainability in our business dealings. In 2008, we continued our systematic implementation of international, national and local legislation and regulations concerning user safety and environmental protection. We introduced measures to improve the ergonomics of our products, and to reduce fuel consumption, vibrationinduced impact and noise emissions. Other factors that impacted on results We observe the guidelines governing general emissions, exhaust gas included, plus water and soil protection. As part of his drive, we reduced emissions from our vibratory rammer and gasoline breaker motors to below the statutory levels. We also minimized our environmental footprint through eco-friendly recycling of materials and resources and separation of potential recyclables in production and administration. in Serbia, which produces steelwork components for the compact equipment segment and delivers these to other Wacker Neuson Group members. Logistics Rapid availability of products and spare parts Internal processes and supply structures Quality management system confirmed by audit We document our underlying processes and benchmarking systems in our quality management system, certified to DIN EN ISO 9001/2000. This covers the light and compact equipment business segments for the Group headquarters in Munich, production plant in Reichertshofen, logistics center in Karlsfeld and all sales regions in Germany. In the first half of fiscal 2008, an external audit reconfirmed that our quality management system is comprehensive and effective. Purchasing Materials requirement adapted to production volume Reduction of materials costs through standard agreements Cushioning against fl uctuations in raw material prices Procurement in 2008 had to contend with extreme volatility on the raw materials market. While the first half of 2008 was marked by overheating and extreme asking prices, particularly in the energy, metal and steel markets, the situation improved significantly in the later half of the year. Thanks to mainly long-term purchase agreements, the procurement department at the Wacker Neuson Group was able to curb the effects of raw material price increases on earnings. The light and compact equipment segments have both coordinated their procurement activities. To capitalize on the synergies created by the bundling of demand, production sites from both segments have defined a “lead buyer” concept. The positive effects of the merger with Neuson Kramer are already evident in a number of Group tender projects. The terms negotiated in this way are then freely available to all plants. We have expanded the activities of our company improved Positive effects of the merger The Wacker Neuson Group logistics centers for new products, spare parts and accessories are located in Karlsfeld (Germany), Germantown, (Milwaukee, US) and Hong Kong (China). Weidemann GmbH spare parts logistics is integrated in the Karlsfeld center. Our dispatch system for new products and spare parts in the compact equipment segment is decentralized, shipping directly from the plants in Linz and Pfullendorf. New products from Weidemann GmbH are shipped from the Korbach plant. Inventory stock remained stable at our Karlsfeld logistics center, reaching EUR 30.0 million (previous year: EUR 29.6 million) at the end of fiscal 2008. Altogether, this center’s current capacity lies at around 14,400 new machines (previous year: 16,600) and around 22,000 different spare parts (previous year: 22,400). Inventory stock at our US logistics centers and in Hong Kong as well as inventory stock in plants producing compact equipment, rose by 40 percent to previous year. We were able to handle the workload with a total headcount of 293 (previous year: 271) across all locations in fiscal 2008. We continued to concentrate on production planning efficiencies at the logistics centers and high flexibility at the focus factories on our production sites. The increase in staff numbers can be explained by new hires in the Americas region to drive expansion of the compact equipment segment. 51 52 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Together with the Wacker Neuson ex works plants in Linz, the Kramer plants in Pfullendorf and Weidemann plant in Korbach, the company put out a tender for all compact equipment shipments in the Group in the fall. The company expects efficiency gains in this area due to the consolidation of shipments post-merger. Headcount by region Human resources Employees by sector in % (previous year) Europe 73.5 (73.3) Americas 20.2 (20.2) Asia 6.3 (21.4) in % Recruitment drive to expand rental business Emphasis on employee development Management 1.2 Administration 8 Sales 22.4 Service 18.3 Training for young people actively supported Human resources work in the Wacker Neuson Group over the last fiscal year concentrated on the merger with Neuson Kramer, employee development, and – particularly in the latter half of the year – measures aimed at securing jobs. Logistics 8 Production 37 Other 5.1 Human resources figures As of December 31, 2008, the company employed a total of 3,665 people (previous year: 3,659). These figures do not reflect the actual number of people employed. They are calculated by converting the number of positions within the company into full-time jobs. At the end of the year, personnel costs totaled EUR 191.5 million (previous year: EUR 167.8 million). The increase is a direct result of the merger. Group-wide human resources reporting is currently being further expanded. Relative to 2007, we were able to provide a larger number of human resource indicators in the period under review. The following Group figures are only based on approximately 77 percent of the total workforce, relative to 2,875 employees in our production companies (number of people employed: 3.739) Among Wacker Neuson Group employees, 2,693 employees or 73.5 percent of all employees were employed in Europe as of the balance sheet date (previous year: 2,683). 740 were employed in the Americas region (previous year: 738), with 232 in the Asia region (previous year: 238). In Germany, headcount grew to 1,708 in fiscal 2008 (previous year: 1,651), and the number employed in the US was 658 at the end of the year (previous year: 663). New hires were particularly concentrated in the Europe region in the service sector due to the expansion of the Group’s rental business, as well as in the Americas region in the logistics sector due to the expansion of the compact segment. In the areas of sales and administration, the number of employees remained almost constant. At the same time, employee numbers were reduced in the production sector by not replacing positions that became available and by closing the plant in Wales. December 31, 2008 2008 Key figures1 Part time employees in % 3.86 Number of trainees 161 Quota of trainees in % Expenses for personnel development in € K Average age in years Number of men/women (proportion in %) 5.60 appr. 800,000 39.92 2,374 (82.57)/ 501(17.43) Number of years with the company 10.70 Fluctuation in % 15.34 Fluctuation (excl. shutdown of Welsh plant) in % Sickness rate in % 1 Figures only based on 77 percent of total workforce 12.13 2.78 Other factors that impacted on results Skilled staff for strong performance During the last fiscal year, we were able to continue our policy of matching the right person with the right job to maintain our strong competitive position on the international market. In fiscal 2008, we continued to accept employees with sound technical training for our technical access program, where they could go on to qualify as construction machinists, helping us to meet growing demand for service employees in the affiliates. We provided intensive training for 161 young people in industrial or business posts or within the framework of practical training programs at technical or vocational colleges. The student training quota for the last fiscal year was 5.6 percent worldwide. In 2008, 39 trainees completed their training, with 32 of these offered positions in the company, a takeup rate of 82 percent. In Manila, we continued to provide training in collaboration with the Don Bosco Institute. Here we are currently training 20 young people from low-income families along the same lines as the German dual training system (previous year: 20 young people). Age structure number of employees in % In 2008, we focused on internal training and development measures in sales and technology. We also held courses in foreign languages, occupational safety and health. Our staff development expenditure for the Group as a whole over the last fiscal year totaled around EUR 0.8 million (previous year: EUR 0.9 million). We offer our employees in Germany numerous voluntary benefits, as well as the opportunity to participate in an employee-funded, insurance-based company pension plan. Depending on their location, we provide various means of support for employees across the Group, including grants, healthcare initiatives and insurance-based company retirement benefits. As of December 31, 2008, the parent company had agreements on part-time work in place with 41 employees close to retirement age (previous year: 39). On March 31, 2008, the parent company left the employers’ association of the Bavarian electrical and metalworking industries, Bayerische Metall- und Elektroindustrie e.V. or VBM, and switched to Bayerische Unternehmensverband Metall- und Elektro e.V. or BayME, which is not tied to collective bargaining agreements. This move should simplify the agreement of company-specific solutions with regard to working hours, flexible working arrangements and retirement benefits for employees. 16 – 20 4.8 21 – 30 21.2 Adjusting capacity 31 – 40 24.9 41 – 50 27.4 51 – 60 18.1 above 60 3.6 During 2008, a number of agreements were made between company management and works councils at the various production sites to try countering the economic downturn. Employee work accounts were extended at some sites. In addition, temporary staff were layed off and overtime and holiday accounts were reduced to prepare production sites in Reichertshofen, Pfullendorf and Linz (Austria) for the start of short-time work in January 2009. Training and voluntary benefits The Wacker Neuson Group has always placed great importance on employee development and ongoing education and will continue to do so. For this reason, expansion of the Wacker Neuson Academy was further promoted in 2008. The Academy was able to offer and run around 130 courses. Approximately 2,200 participants from the company and customer employees took up this offer. The closure of the four-wheel dumper production plant in Tredegar (Wales, Great Britain) caused the loss of a total of 90 jobs. Group management found socially responsible solutions for the affected employees. Due to the global recession, staff numbers have also been cut at other production sites. In other words, production staff (excluding temporary staff) was reduced by 3.9 percent worldwide. 53 54 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Number of employees (Group)1 as of December 31, 2008 2008 20072 20063 20054 2004 3,665 3,659 2,837 2,630 2,224 1 By number of full-time jobs 2 Through the merger with Neuson Kramer 3 Through Ground Heaters acquisition 4 Through Weidemann acquisition Sales and marketing Customer loyalty measures implemented Encouraging feedback at construction equipment trade fairs Sales and training activities strengthened The Wacker Neuson Group’s sales and marketing activities over the last fiscal year aimed to provide customers and business partners with convincing proof of the quality and performance of our products and services, thus increasing customer loyalty to the company. We implemented this strategy both in person and via a range of communication tools. After the merger with Neuson Kramer Baumaschinen AG (now Wacker Neuson Beteiligungs GmbH) in 2007, the focus in 2008 was on implementing a new corporate design and the accompanying standardization of colors for equipment and machinery under the new Wacker Neuson brand. We also worked intensively to redesign all communication and marketing tools and to communicate the new brand image to all target groups. Once again, we are particularly focused on positioning Wacker Neuson as a premium brand with a high-quality range of light and compact equipment, flanked by a comprehensive service offering. A steady flow of visitors to our stands at all trade fairs enabled numerous discussions with our customers. Weidemann GmbH presented its products at a number of agricultural trade fairs in Europe. Our comprehensive product and service offering under the Wacker Neuson and Kramer Allrad brands (the latter applies to Europe only) resonated strongly among customers. The number of actual deals closed at the trade fairs increased in comparison with previous years. The number of employees in sales and service worldwide grew over the past year to 1,491 (previous year: 1,473). This enabled us to maintain a high level of service quality again and offer tailored sales and service solutions, aligned with the specific requirements of customers and their markets. We offered major customers particularly attractive financing programs for compact equipment. Work was completed on our training center at the Reichertshofen production site at the beginning of 2008. In the reporting year, we thus began to train both our own sales and service teams and our customers in the correct deployment of our products, showing – regardless of the weather – how our equipment and services can help optimize construction processes. VIII. Risk report Key enablers here included brochures, product information sheets, press releases, expanded Internet communication, plus presentation of our offering at exhibitions and trade fairs. Our most important trade fairs in Germany last year were Nordbau in Neumünster and GaLaBau in Nuremberg, the international trade fair for the design, construction and maintenance of urban, green and open space. At a European level, we attended fairs in Spain, Great Britain and Italy. In the US, we showcased the 14 compact models earmarked for launch in the US at a number of trade fairs. Highlights included a booth at the largest trade fair in the Americas, Conexpo/CON-AGG in March in Las Vegas (US). Notes on the risk management system In fiscal 2008, the Wacker Neuson Group continued to implement its risk management system as a key steering tool for business decisions and processes. This system covers planning for each of the core business segments, comprehensive Group reporting on all business processes and affiliates to provide every decision-maker with regular analysis, discussion and evaluation, process definitions for all business segments, and Group auditing. Risk report The risk management handbook outlines the Group’s goals, its risk policy in terms of defining, assessing and quantifying potential risks, and the nature and procedures of the risk management system with roles and responsibilities regarding analyzing, monitoring and communicating identified risks. This allows us to derive suitable measures to actively counteract known risks. The Group’s comprehensive risk management system also includes systematic financial risk management. We have defined Group guidelines and policies for certain activities such as dealing with foreign currency risks, interest rate risks and credit risks, the use of derivative and other financial instruments and the use of liquidity surpluses. Risk categorization Risks Risk class To be observed To be monitored Major 1 Risk exposure1 0 to 50,000 EUR 50,000 Euro to 125,000 EUR 125,000 EUR and more Environment and industry risks (risks related to the overall economic situation, procurement and retail markets, locations and countries) Risk exposure = (probability/100) x impact Our risk reporting system lists and describes each individual risk identified in our lines of business. We examine the situation every quarter and add newly identified risks if necessary. The controlling department also surveys the affiliates and departments at the Group headquarters. Following checking for completeness and plausibility, the data gathered is aggregated. We then assess the risks using both quantitative and qualitative methods that are uniform throughout the Group, allowing comparison across the various business units and beyond. The risks are evaluated according to probability of occurrence and potential damages. The resulting values are derived and prioritized on the basis of current and projected accounting figures. This provides objectivity in determining damages. Following this process, the risk report is generated and presented for acknowledgement by the Executive Board. Risk probability in % Degree of probability Category Low Medium High Very high As of December 31, 2008, the company identified the following significant risks to the Wacker Neuson Group that could have a negative impact on business development: in the following year The Wacker Neuson Group is dependent on the general economic climate and international construction industry trends and on developments in the agricultural industry as they impact on the Weidemann GmbH affiliate and – to a lesser extent – on the Kramer-Werke GmbH affiliate. As a result of the current macroeconomic climate and construction industry trends, the Group is increasingly exposed to negative dynamics on its core markets. Due to the global recession, the company notes a growing risk that the drop in product sales in both light and compact equipment due to changed customer order patterns will continue throughout the remainder of fiscal 2009 and beyond. At December 31, 2008, accumulated orders for compact equipment for the construction and agricultural industries were 25 percent below the equivalent figure for the previous year. It is to be assumed that this gap will widen further as the propensity to invest continues to fall in response to increasingly stringent bank lending policies. The company is mitigating these risks by adopting proactive go-to-market strategies in the regions and stepping up activities in growth segments such as agriculture, and in dynamic markets such as Eastern Europe and Asia. 0 to 5 5 to 20 20 to 50 50 to 100 Global cost-cutting measures such as a hiring freeze were also implemented. Following the reduction of holiday accounts and temporary staff as well as the expansion of our flexible working schemes at all production sites in fiscal 2008, we implemented short-time work at our German plants in Reichertshofen and Pfullendorf (Kramer-Werke GmbH) and our Austrian plant in Linz at the start of fiscal 2009. Should these measures prove to be insufficient, we cannot rule out staff rationalization measures. 55 56 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Falling demand for products has led to an increase in stock, and subsequently working capital. The company has flexibly adapted productivity levels and implemented measures to reduce inventories, including attractive financing packages for major customers in the compact equipment segment. However, continued downturn in sales could lead to an increase in financing costs for working capital. Profit levels are at risk if the measures implemented do not have sufficient impact and if the cost savings fail to keep pace with any further drops in sales or if we are unable to reduce inventory in synch with any further drops in sales. Further downturn in the European and German construction industry may have a stronger negative impact on demand for Wacker Neuson Group products and services than currently expected. The same applies to the agricultural industry. Although a downturn in this area is not expected at this stage, a slump here would affect the results of Weidemann GmbH in the long term and – to a lesser extent – KramerWerke GmbH. We regularly monitor our cost structure and investment measures to assess the potential impact on our profit, finances and assets. In the US, experts feared that the subprime crisis, which is having a particularly negative impact on private residential construction, will now have a knock-on effect on the nonresidential sector, including highway, underground and commercial construction projects. However, the US government is planning an investment program to boost the construction industry, which could mitigate the effects of the sluggish economic and depressed construction climate on our business prospects in the Americas region. We are countering the risks we face in this region by actively pushing our go-to-market strategy, launching new products – particularly compact equipment – and establishing a Wacker Neuson dealer network. The Wacker Neuson Group is also affected by the seasonal fluctuations. Sales may therefore fluctuate during the year. The international nature of our business means our company is exposed to political, national economic and other risks. We face tough international competition. While we have decided to maintain the price strategy accepted by our customers, global competitors are increasingly offering discounts. This may mean we lose market share. Strategic business risks (risks arising from business decisions, investments, entering new markets, launching new products and acquiring and integrating new companies) As part of our long-term strategy, we are expanding the compact equipment segment, as well as our sales and service network and the rental business in Central and Eastern Europe. This involves investments, which may not necessarily be recouped. Unforeseeable risks can also arise within individual projects and delay execution. We are countering this by adapting our timing to current market dynamics, carefully examining all planned investments and possible risks and pursuing a lean project management policy. The company is also exposed to risks in connection with its ongoing international expansion activities. If we do not expand as planned, this could have a negative impact on our long-term growth strategy. We will continue with this strategy by expanding the compact equipment segment in fiscal 2009 and establishing our light and compact equipment offering for the construction industry under the Wacker Neuson brand and launching Wacker Neuson-branded compact equipment in the Americas region and, in the medium term, Asia. We have identified customer demand here, but there is nevertheless a risk that products under the Wacker Neuson brand will not achieve the desired level of market penetration. We are minimizing this risk through intensive sales and training activities. The merger with Neuson Kramer has positioned the company as a major global player in the light and compact equipment market. There is a risk of delays in the global distribution of compact equipment through our existing sales and service network. Risks also arise from harmonizing national sales channels comprising direct sales and dealer networks. Failure to align these channels may lead to the loss of sales partners in Europe. We are countering this by maintaining close ties with our sales partners. We also consider acquisitions to enhance our product portfolio, and these are carefully assessed. However, errors in estimating the risks entailed in an acquisition can have a negative impact on Group business development and growth prospects. Risk report During the last fiscal year, the Wacker Neuson Group decided to close the production plant in Tredegar (Wales, UK) and transfer production of four-wheel dumpers to Linz in Austria. This process will be completed in spring 2009. If this move is not completed on time, there is a risk of delays in product deliveries to customers. The company is countering this risk by implementing an efficient project management policy. determined using the discounted cash flow method. Value is impaired if the fair value, less selling costs, is lower than the book value. Impairment losses did not need to be written down in fiscal 2008. It is currently unclear whether this will also be the case in fiscal 2009. However, should the compact equipment segment in particular not develop as planned, write-downs on goodwill may become necessary in future as a result of an impairment test. Kramer-Werke GmbH produces telescopic handlers for CLAAS Global Sales GmbH, which CLAAS then distributes to the agricultural industry under its own name. There is a risk that the contracting company could end this partnership or reduce the number of orders. To combat this, KramerWerke GmbH actively manages its relationship with CLAAS and continually improves its processes and the quality of its products. Planned company restructuring measures could prove difficult, time-consuming or cost-intensive, or entail tax and other disadvantages for shareholders. Our company’s customer and supplier structure varies according to country. Within an individual country, the loss of a major customer can have a serious impact on demand for products and services from the affiliate concerned. In addition, the loss of a supplier or delayed delivery of parts and accessories can threaten an affiliate’s individual sales targets. We are countering this risk by expanding our sales activities, making ongoing improvements to supplier structures and concluding standard agreements. Demand on the international market is becoming increasingly concentrated due to mergers among our customer base. Customer takeovers by financial investors are also possible here. This type of development can have positive or negative impacts on our unit sales and revenue, which it is not yet possible to assess. The Wacker Neuson Group is countering this risk through close customer communication and further building its brand. We are continuing to stock our rental and demo fleets with compact equipment. The income from renting this equipment will be distributed over the subsequent four to six years. There is a risk that the planned proceeds from the sale of demo products and end-of-life equipment from the rental pool and the proceeds from the rental of new machines will not materialize. We are minimizing this risk by actively driving the sales and rental business. The value of goodwill and indefinite-lived brands is verified during the annual impairment test. For this purpose, the book value is compared with the fair value. The fair value is Performance-related risks (risks associated with procurement, production, sales, and research and development) There is a risk that our company might not be able to achieve planned revenue and profits if individual distribution partners do not sell the expected volumes of our products. We are countering this by pursuing a contact management policy tailored to the needs of our sales partners. The Group requires components and raw materials to manufacture its products – particularly steel, aluminum and copper. Our production uses structural steel components and precast parts, for instance, as well as hydraulic and chassis components containing varying amounts of crude steel. Prices for energy and key raw materials are currently subject to extreme fluctuations. The evolution of raw material prices and their impact on manufacturing costs are still difficult to predict. The company thus prefers contracts to its advantage. So it is in a position to take advantage of any potential falls in price. Wacker Neuson also relies on third-party components and raw materials being free of defects and meeting the relevant specifications and quality standards. Defects here can result in quality problems as well as delays to our production processes and therefore to our shipments. We address this risk with our quality management system, which also covers supplier relations. In view of the market conditions, we cannot exclude that certain of our current customers may face financial difficulties, possibly culminating in insolvency. This in turn would lead to a rise in accounts receivable and a subsequent increased risk of a default. We counteract the risk of changes in individual customers’ payment patterns through our active accounts receivable management policy. 57 58 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 The Wacker Neuson Group depends on developing new products and introducing these to the market in good time. Here it is essential to comply with national and international guidelines and new legislation and to observe them in our product development. If this does not continue to happen, our competitive position and growth opportunities may be impaired. The company’s research and development department therefore continuously works to develop new products and enhance our existing portfolio, always aligning its activities with market demands and observing applicable regulations, laws and directives. Financial risks (risks associated with financial instruments, exchange rate and interest fluctuations and financing) The Wacker Neuson Group operates worldwide and therefore generates part of its revenue in currencies other than the Euro. Exchange rate fluctuations could therefore affect the company’s key results. The Group implements currency hedging to counter the effects of negative exchange rate trends. Wherever possible, we pursue natural hedging policies. We use standard financial instruments such as interest rate swaps and foreign exchange forward contracts and options exclusively for hedging purposes and to minimize risks. To acquire Weidemann GmbH in 2005, we arranged a URIBORbased loan with a fixed margin and semi-annual interest and principal payments. 100 percent of the interest risk on the outstanding loan is hedged by a financial derivative (forward interest-rate swap). The international financial market crisis has increased the risk of banks calling short-term loans, forcing their customers to take out loans at higher interest rates to ensure liquidity. There is also a risk that the collapse of a national credit institute could result in the loss of bank balances or credit lines by a company in the Wacker Neuson Group. The company is mitigating this risk with an active investment and banking policy. Warranties and product liability claims can result in claims for damages and injunctions. We are minimizing this risk by taking the greatest of care in the development and manufacture of our products and in the drafting of contracts, and also through the systematic enforcement of those contracts. The Group also minimizes the risk of disputes with third parties over intellectual property rights through extensive prior investigations and research. No legal proceedings are currently underway or pending that might pose significant risks to the Wacker Neuson Group’s financial situation. The Group has concluded insurance policies worldwide to protect against liability risks and potential damages attributable to the company. Other risks (risks associated with human resources, IT and the environment) The company uses numerous IT systems in logistics, procurement and production. Failure of these systems could negatively impact on our production and goods flow and lead to loss of sales. SAP systems are currently being rolled out in several areas. We are pursuing a strict project management policy to counter risks that can occur during the implementation of global systems as well as to prevent additional costs. Increasingly strict regulations to reduce noise and environmental impact and measures to ensure user protection can entail additional costs for the Wacker Neuson Group. We counteract risks from increasing legal obligations through active and prompt implementation. Despite current market developments, the Wacker Neuson Group is looking to recruit qualified mechanical engineers as appropriate. A downturn in the labor market could prevent us covering our need for qualified staff. The company is countering this risk with dedicated recruitment efforts. Summary of Group risk situation (assessment of risk situation by the Executive Board) Legal risks (risks related to pending legal proceedings, patent and trademark law, and tax law) Due to the economic trends described here, the company has identified more risks than in the previous year. A potential risk is that the company may be unable to protect its intellectual property sufficiently, which could impair its competitive ability. We are counteracting this risk through intensive patent and intellectual property management. Viewed in terms of percentage of overall risk, our main risks lie in the performance-related and financial categories. Together, these represent around 91 percent of the total risk to our Group. Information in accordance with Section 315 (4) of HGB We are not currently aware of any other significant risks to the Group. Furthermore, we have not identified any individual or collective risks to our continued existence as a going concern that might negatively affect individual companies within the Group or the Group as whole in the foreseeable future. Distribution of risk 1 in % (previous year) Percentage share 1 Risk category of total risk Performance-related risks 54.0 (71.0) Financial risks 37.4 (13.8) Strategic business risks 2.6 (4.9) Other risks 3.6 (5.9) Environment and industry risks 1.1 (3.8) Legal risks 1.2 (0.6) Differences attributable to rounding Composition of subscribed capital At December 31, 2008, the company’s share capital amounted to EUR 70,140,000, divided into 70,140,000 individual no-par-value nominal shares, each representing a proportionate amount of the share capital of EUR 1 according to Article 3 (2) of the Articles of Incorporation of Wacker Construction Equipment AG. There is only one type of share; all shares are vested with the same rights and obligations as outlined in detail in particular under Sections 12, 53a, 188 ff and 186 of the AktG. Each share entitles the bearer to one vote at the AGM. Any treasury shares held by the company do not entitle it to any rights (Section 71b AktG). Under the terms of Section 67 (2) of the AktG, registered shares only confer shareholder rights vis-à-vis the company to those shareholders entered as such in the stock register. Restrictions affecting voting rights or the transfer of shares Information on the pool agreement IX . Information in accordance with Section 315 (4) and Section 289 (4) of the German Commercial Code (HGB) as well as the Executive Board report in accordance with Section 120 (3) sentence 2 of the AktG (German Stock Corporation Act) According to Section 315 (4) of the HGB, listed companies must disclose information on the composition of capital, shareholders’ rights and restrictions, participating interests and corporate bodies that may be relevant for takeovers in the Group Management Report. The same information must also be disclosed in the Management Report, pur suant to Section 289 (4) of the HGB. Furthermore, according to Section 120 (3) sentence 2 of the AktG, the Executive Board must submit a report containing this information to the AGM. The following contains a summary of the information pursuant to Section 315 (4) and Section 289 (4) of the HGB as well as the corresponding explanatory comments pursuant to Section 120 (3) sentence 2 of the AktG. There is a pool agreement between some shareholders and companies of the Wacker family on the one hand, and companies and shareholders of Neuson on the other. Prior to each AGM of Wacker Neuson SE, the pool members decide how to exercise voting and petition rights in the meeting. Each pool member undertakes to exercise their voting and petition rights in the AGM in line with the pool’s decisions, or to have these rights exercised in this manner. If the pool does not reach a decision, with regard to a resolution on the allocation of annual profits, adoption of the annual financial statements by the AGM, approval of Executive and Supervisory Board members’ actions, appointment of the auditor, upholding minority interests and compulsory changes to the Articles of Incorporation as a result of changes to legislation or jurisdiction, the pool members have the right to freely exercise their voting rights. In all other cases, the pool members must vote to reject the proposal. The Neuson shareholders appoint two members to the Super visory Board, and the Wacker shareholders appoint two further members to the Supervisory Board. Shares can be transferred without restriction to spouses, registered partners, pool members’ children, children adopted when they were minors by pool members, siblings, foundations set up by pool members that are either charitable foundations or in which the beneficiaries and the 59 60 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 controlling members of the management board satisfy the aforementioned criteria, and companies where the direct or indirect shareholders also satisfy the aforementioned criteria are. If shares are transferred to any such persons, they must join the pool agreement. If shares are transferred to third parties, either for a fee or free of charge, the other pool members have the right to acquire these shares. If the shares are to be sold to third parties off the stock exchange, all of the other pool members have a preferential purchase right. If a pool member intends to transfer shares in such a way that more than 50 percent of voting rights in Wacker Neuson SE would be held by third parties who do not satisfy the criteria defining those individuals to whom transfers can be freely made, the remaining pool members have the right to also sell their shares. If a pool member is excluded from the pool for good reason, the other pool members have a right to acquire the shares or a preferential purchase right. This also applies if a pool member ceases to qualify as a pool member. Information on the partnership agreement of Wacker Familiengesellschaft mbH & Co. KG Part of the Wacker family shareholders hold part of their shares via Wacker Familiengesellschaft mbH & Co. KG, which in turn also holds shares via Wacker-Werke GmbH & Co. KG. Economic ownership of the shares is attributed to the Wacker family shareholders. The pool agreement has precedence over the regulations of the partnership agreement as long as Wacker Familiengesellschaft mbH & Co. KG is party to the above pool agreement. A partners’ meeting is held prior to every AGM of Wacker Neuson SE. In this meeting, the Wacker family shareholders define how they will vote and exercise their petitioning rights. However, votes in the AGM are to be cast in line with the pool’s decisions. Two of the Wacker family shareholders have the right to propose one member of the Supervisory Board each to the shareholders, this member is then to be elected by the remainder. Only the acquisition and preferential purchase rights in the pool agreement apply to family members who are party to the pool agreement. In the case of a sale by a family member who is not a pool member, acquisition and preferential purchase rights apply if shares are sold to third parties who do not fulfill the criteria defining those individuals to whom shares can be freely transferred set forth in the abovementioned pool agreement. If a family shareholder exits the company as a result of a termination, the remaining pool members have a preferential purchase right to buy the shares for a period of two years from the date this shareholder exits the company. In addition, the partners’ meeting can resolve that the exiting family shareholder does not receive compensation in cash but in the form of the shares to which they are financially entitled. After May 14, 2012, each exiting family member can demand to receive their compensation in the form of the shares to which they are financially entitled. Pool agreement between Lehner and Neuson shareholders The Lehner shareholders have issued a Neuson shareholder with power of attorney with regard to the shares they acquired prior to the merger and during the merger between the company and Neuson Kramer Baumaschinen AG (now Wacker Neuson Beteiligungs GmbH). The Neuson shareholder is independently responsible for exercising these voting rights. He is not subject to any instructions, and will always exercise these in the same way as for the shares that he himself holds. These shares are thus subject to the restrictions of the pool agreement mentioned above. The Neuson shareholder has a preferential purchase right to buy these shares in the event of a transfer to entities other than the Neuson shareholder or to Lehner shareholders. Shares that part of the Executive Board members received as part of their remuneration Three of the members of the Executive Board have received shares in the company as part of their remuneration. The company has an unrestricted, preferential purchase or acquisition right over some of these shares in the event that they are transferred. The Executive Board is not aware of any restrictions affecting voting rights or the transfer of shares. Direct or indirect participating interests in equity that exceed ten percent of voting rights The Executive Board is aware of the following direct or indirect participating interests in the share capital of the company that exceed 10 percent of voting rights at December 31, 2008: Information in accordance with Section 315 (4) of HGB in % at Dec. 31, 2008 Direct share Voting rights allocated Percentage of voting of voting rights to the stakeholder1 rights in total1 Stakeholder with duty to disclose interest Wacker Familiengesellschaft mbH & Co. KG Wacker-Werke GmbH & Co. KG 5.29% 59.09% 64.38% 29.07% 35.31% 64.38% 64.38% 64.38% 64.38% 69.43% IWZ AG VGC Invest GmbH 5.06% Christian Wacker 0.46% Dr. Ulrich Wacker Andreas Wacker 0.46% Barbara von Schoeler 0.26% Petra Martin Dr. Andrea Steinle Ralph Wacker 0.46% Susanne Wacker-Waldmann 0.46% 64.84% 69.43% 64.38% 64.84% 64.38% 64.64% 64.38% 64.38% 64.38% 64.38% 64.38% 64.84% 64.38% 64.84% Benedikt von Schoeler 64.38% 64.38% Jennifer von Schoeler 64.38% 64.38% Leonard von Schoeler 64.38% 64.38% AW Holding Inc. 64.38% 64.38% Alexander Wacker 64.38% 64.38% Trustee 64.38% 64.38% Vicky Schlagböhmer 64.38% 64.38% Christiane Wacker 64.38% 64.38% Georg Wacker 64.38% 64.38% Baufortschritt - Ingenieurgesellschaft mbH 64.38% 64.38% PIN Privatstiftung 0.00001% 64.38% 64.38% NEUSON Industries GmbH 0.00001% 64.38% 64.38% Hans Neunteufel 0.00001% 64.38% 64.38% 29.01% 35.37% 64.38% Martin Lehner 0.46% 64.04% 64.51% Adolf Lehner 0.33% 64.04% 64.38% Herta Lehner 0.33% 64.04% 64.38% NEUSON Ecotec GmbH 1 64.38% 69.43% Votes bounded through the synidcate agreement (see page 59) are added together Bearers of shares with extraordinary rights that grant the holders controlling powers There are no shares with extraordinary rights that grant the holders controlling powers. Type of control of voting rights if employees hold participating interests and if they do not directly exercise their controlling rights. The company’s employees can exercise the controlling rights due to them from shares directly, as is the case for other shareholders, according to statutory provisions and the Articles of Incorporation. 61 62 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Statutory provisions and provisions of the Articles of Incorporation regarding the appointment and dismissal of members of the Executive Board and changes to the Articles of Incorporation Members of the Executive Board are appointed and dismissed according to Sections 84 and 85 of the AktG. According to Article 5 (1) of the Articles of Incorporation of Wacker Construction Equipment AG, the Executive Board of Wacker Construction Equipment AG comprises one or several members. The Supervisory Board determines the number of members of the Executive Board (Article 5 (2) sentence 1 of the Articles of Incorporation). The Supervisory Board appoints and dismisses members of the Executive Board. Members of the Executive Board of Wacker Construction Equipment AG are appointed for a maximum period of five years (Sections 84, 85 of the AktG). The Supervisory Board can appoint a Chairman of the Executive Board, a Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board and a Spokesperson for the Executive Board (Article 5 (2) sentence 2 of the Articles of Incorporation). Sections 179 ff of the AktG must be observed in the event of changes to the Articles of Incorporation. The AGM resolves on changes to the Articles of Incorporation (Sections 119 (1) No. 5 and 179 (1) of the AktG). The Supervisory Board is authorized to resolve changes to the Articles of Incorporation that only affect the wording (Article 14 of the Articles of Incorporation). Resolutions by the AGM of Wacker Construction Equipment AG are passed with a simple majority of votes cast and, to the extent that the law requires a majority of capital represented in addition to a majority of votes cast, with a simple majority of the share capital represented when the resolution is passed to the extent that mandatory statutory regulations require a larger majority of votes cast or capital represented; votes withheld do not count as votes cast (Article 20 (1) of the Articles of Incorporation). The Executive Board’s powers, in particular with regard to the possibility of issuing or buying back shares Treasury shares By way of a resolution by the AGM on June 3, 2008, the Executive Board is authorized, with the prior approval of the Supervisory Board, to acquire 7,014,000 treasury shares via the stock exchange by December 2, 2009. This acquisition may also be performed by one of the company’s group companies or for its or their account by third parties. In so doing, the shares acquired as a result of this authorization together with other shares in the company that it has already acquired and still holds may not at any time total more than 10 percent of the existing share capital. Shares may not be purchased for the purpose of trading company shares on the stock exchange. The compensation paid by the company per registered share (without incidental acquisition costs) may not be more than 10 percent higher or lower than the arithmetic average of the closing prices for shares in the company in XETRA trading (or a comparable successor system) on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange on the last five stock market days prior to the date on which the undertaking to acquire the shares was entered into. The authorization can be exercised in whole or in parts, in the latter case also on multiple occasions. The Executive Board may also redeem the treasury shares still to be acquired without a renewed resolution by the AGM with the permission of the Supervisory Board. The authorization can be exercised in whole or in parts, in the latter case also on multiple occasions. The redemption is performed such that the share capital is not changed, but that the proportion the other shares represent in the share capital is increased in accordance Section 8 (3) of the AktG (Section 237 (3) No. 3 of the AktG). The Executive Board is authorized to change the number of shares in the Articles of Incorporation accordingly. The Executive Board is authorized, with the approval of the Supervisory Board, to use shares in the company that were acquired as a result of the above authorization as (partial) compensation as part of mergers or to acquire companies, participating interests in companies or parts of companies. The acquired treasury shares may also be sold to Executive Board members and members of executive bodies of associated companies within the framework of an executive profit-share model, which has yet to be approved by the Supervisory Board. The Supervisory Board will determine the extent to which shares will be sold to members of the Executive Board within the framework of this plan when deciding on the overall executive profit-share model. In addition, the Executive Board is authorized, with the approval of the Supervisory Board, to sell the treasury shares still to be acquired at a price that is not substantially lower than Information in accordance with Section 315 (4) of HGB the stock market price on the date of the sale. The price at which shares in the company can be sold may not be more than 5 percent lower than the arithmetic average of the closing prices of shares in the company in XETRA trading (or a comparable successor system) at Frankfurt Stock Exchange on the last five stock market days prior to the date of the general sale. In this case, the number of the shares to be sold together with the new shares that were issued after this authorization was issued excluding subscription rights in accordance with Section 186 (3) sentence 4 of the AktG, and together with treasury shares already sold, may not exceed 10 percent of the company’s share capital which exists on the date the resolution by the AGM came into effect. The authorization to redeem/sell shares can be availed of in full or in several partial amounts. The shareholders subscription rights to treasury shares in the company is excluded to the extent that these shares are redeemed or old according to the above authorizations. Authorized Capital I According to Article 3 (3) of the Articles of Incorporation of Wacker Construction Equipment AG, the Executive Board is authorized to increase the company’s share capital by April 12, 2012, with the approval of the Supervisory Board, by issuing new, registered shares against cash contributions, in full or in partial amounts, on one or several occasions, however at the most by a maximum of EUR 1,000,000 (Authorized Capital I). Shareholders’ statutory subscription rights are excluded: If employees of the company and its affiliates and executive bodies of affiliates (to the extent that these are not simultaneously members of the company’s Executive Board) are offered shares at an issue price that is 15 percent lower than the issue price; For fractional amounts; Otherwise, if the issue price of the new shares is not significantly below the company’s market price and the new shares issued to the exclusion of subscription rights do not exceed a total of 10 percent of the share capital, neither at the time the authorization takes effect, nor at the time of exercising. Shares must be added to the above 10 percent threshold that are issued or are to be issued to service options or convertible bonds to the extent that the bonds are issued in corresponding application of Section 186 (3) sentence 4 of the AktG excluding subscription rights; in addition the sale of treasury shares is to be added if the sale was made as a result of a valid authorization to sell treasury shares that applied on the date that Authorized Capital I came into effect in corresponding application of Section 186 (3) sentence 4 of the AktG excluding subscription rights. Subject to the approval of the Supervisory Board, the Executive Board also decides on the content of the respective share rights and the other conditions of the share issue including the issuing amount. Authorized Capital II According to Article 3 (4) of the Articles of Incorporation of Wacker Construction Equipment AG, the Executive Board is authorized to increase the company’s share capital by April 12, 2012, with the approval of the Supervisory Board, by issuing new, registered shares against noncash contributions, in full or in partial amounts, on one or several occasions, however at the most by a maximum of EUR 5,360,000 (Authorized Capital II). The shareholders’ statutory subscription rights are excluded to grant shares against the contribution of companies and participating interests in companies or parts of companies to the company. Subject to the approval of the Supervisory Board, the Executive Board also decides on the content of the respective share rights and the other conditions of the share issue including the issuing amount. The authorized capital amounts described above reflect the practices typical of listed businesses similar to the company. They are not intended to obstruct takeover bids. Key company agreements that are subject to a change of control clause following a takeover bid and the resulting impact The company has the following key agreements with companies that are subject to a change of control clause: The conditions of the master credit agreement in the original amount of EUR 50 million to finance the acquisition of the Weidemann Group in 2005 include an extraordinary right on the part of the lender to terminate the credit line in the event of a change to the company’s shareholder structure. 63 64 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 A credit agreement for a revolving line of credit for EUR 65 million to finance working capital requirements for the company grants the lender the right to extraordinary termination of the agreement if there is a change of control at the company. According to the credit agreement, there is a change of control if a different person acquires or takes over at least 50.01 percent of voting rights in the company, or ascertains that they hold this amount. Voting rights are allocated in accordance with Section 30 of the Wertpapier-Übernahmegesetz (WpÜG – German Acquisition and Takeover Act). A further credit agreement for a revolving line in the amount of EUR 10 million to finance working capital requirements for the company grants the lender the right to terminate the agreement at any time if the shareholder families no longer jointly hold at least 50.01 percent of shares in the company. Compensation agreements between the company and the members of the Executive Board or its employees for the event of a takeover offer. The Executive Board’s remuneration is defined by the Super visory Board’s Executive Committee and reviewed at regular intervals. Defining the structure and amount of the remuneration is based on the company’s size and economic position as well as the tasks and performance of the members of the Executive Board. The Executive Board’s remuneration comprises: A fixed annual basic salary A variable annual salary Special bonus Transitional pay, compensation upon an early exit Remuneration in the case of accident, illness or death Non-cash remuneration and other additional remuneration A pension commitment The individual remuneration components are as follows: The annual fixed salary is paid in equal monthly installments. There is no such agreement. During the period under review, the Executive Board had no reason to address issues concerning a takeover; or engage with disclosure details stipulated under the German Takeover Directive Implementation Act (ÜbernahmerichtlinieUmsetzungsgesetz). The Executive Board therefore does not see the need to add further details to the information provided above. X. Remuneration framework Information on the Executive Board According to the Vorstandsvergütungs-Offenlegungsgesetz (German Executive Board Remuneration Disclosure Act), listed companies must disclose individualized information on the Executive Board’s remuneration in the notes to the annual and consolidated financial statements, broken down into performance-related and non-performance related components as well as long-term incentives. The Act stipulates that information may be withheld if the AGM resolves this with a majority of 75 percent of votes cast. This type of resolution can be passed for a maximum period of five years. The company has availed of this opportunity for fiscal years 2006 to 2010 by way of a resolution by the AGM on May 15, 2006. The variable salary is based on consolidated earnings after taxes, taken from the approved consolidated financial statements for the respective fiscal year. An upper threshold for the variable remuneration has been agreed in the same amount for all Executive Board members. Members of the Executive Board also receive a special bonus. For part of the Executive Board, this bonus is tied to financing the purchase of company shares within the framework of an executive profit-share model with a view to binding the Executive Board members to the company in the long term. The other members of the Board shall receive the special bonus during the interim period pending introduction of a new executive profit-share model. If the Executive Board members’ employment contract is terminated prematurely, but not for good cause, the members of the Executive Board each receive compensation in the amount of their average discounted annual remuneration for the remainder of the contractual period including their variable remuneration and the special bonus. If the contract is terminated after the age of 55 and prior to the member reaching the age of 61, the members of the Executive Board may claim transitional payments. Supplementary report If they are temporarily prevented from working through no fault of their own, members of the Executive Board continue to receive their fixed annual salary and bonus for a limited period. Widows and dependant children receive corresponding payments for a limited period. The non-cash remuneration and other remuneration includes a subsidy for private life insurance, premiums for life insurance in favor of the Executive Board members, premiums for accident insurance, the use of a company car, etc. The members of the Executive Board receive an old-age pension for life upon reaching the age of 61 unless the employment relationship with the company was terminated for good cause that is the fault of the Executive Board member. In addition, an invalidity pension is paid in the event of disability or professional incapacity, and a widow’s and orphans’ pension is paid in the event of death. Other remuneration may also be added to these amounts payable. Information on the Supervisory Board According to the Articles of Incorporation, members of the Supervisory Board receive remuneration determined by the AGM. By way of a resolution dated July 4, 2003 (in the wording of the resolutions dated May 15, 2006 and April 13, 2007), the Annual General Meeting set fixed and variable remuneration for the members of the Supervisory Board for each fiscal year. The fixed remuneration for each individual member of the Supervisory Board totals EUR 20,000. The Chairman of the Supervisory Board receives twice this amount, and his/her Deputy receives 1 ½ times the fixed remuneration. Members of committees receive an additional remuneration, with the Chairman of each committee receiving twice the regular committee remuneration. In addition, the members of the Supervisory Board receive a meeting fee for each Supervisory Board meeting in which they participate. The variable remuneration for the individual members of the Supervisory Board is based on the consolidated earnings after taxes. It is capped at 1 ½ times their respective fixed remuneration. It is calculated in line with the company’s approved consolidated financial statements taking Section 113 (3) of the AktG into account. Meeting fees are added to the variable remuneration. In addition, members of the Supervisory Board are reimbursed for their out-of-pocket expenses and any VAT that may be due on their remuneration and out-of-pocket expenses. XI. Supplementary report Events/transactions of particular importance since the reporting date On June 3, 2008, the AGM approved changing the legal form of the company to a European company (Societas Europaea, SE) and renaming it Wacker Neuson SE. On January 14, 2009, the Executive Board of the former Wacker Construction Equipment AG together with a committee of 23 employee representatives from the company’s affiliates and operations in 17 different European countries, signed an agreement outlining the procedural guidelines involved in informing and consulting employees in Europe as well as employee participation in the future Wacker Neuson SE Super visory Board. Mr. Herbert Santl and Mr. Elvis Schwarzmair were appointed to the Wacker Neuson SE Supervisory Board as employee representatives. In the constituent meeting of the Wacker Neuson SE Supervisory Board on February 11, 2009, the former members of the Wacker Construction Equipment AG Executive Board were appointed to the Executive Board of Wacker Neuson SE. Wacker Neuson SE was entered in Register of Companies on February 18, 2009. Wacker Neuson SE’s legal charter remains almost identical to that of Wacker Construction Equipment AG. On March 12, 2009 Wacker Neuson Linz GmbH (Austria), an affiliate of Wacker Neuson SE, purchased an approximately 160,000 m2 tract of land in the district of Hörsching (Austria). The company has thus executed its option agreement to purchase the site, which was due to expire at the end of March, 2009. The purchase price is approximately EUR 9.2 million. The construction of a new production plant will not commence before 2010. Impact on profit, fi nances and assets Despite the above mentioned exception the aforementioned development does not have any influence on profit, finances and assets. 65 66 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 XII. Opportunities and outlook for future development of the Wacker Neuson Group Overall economic outlook Global impact of financial crisis Uncertainty over the duration of financial crisis Governments shore up economy Experts anticipate 2009 to be characterized by a worldwide recession and only forecast an upturn in the global economy in the coming year if the banking sector can be stabilized worldwide. This would not only ease inflation, but also strengthen consumer purchasing power and corporate investment patterns. According to IMF experts, real global gross domestic product (GDP) for 2009 is set to rise by just 0.5 percent. World trade volume is expected to fall by 2.8 percent. Countries with major financing or construction sectors and whose economic growth is primarily linked to exports are set to be hit particularly hard here. Falling raw material prices and policy actions initiated by national governments may stimulate local economies. According to economic experts, several real economies including Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC) may again experience robust growth rates in 2009. However, this economic upturn is also expected to be slowed by a number of factors such as falling exports and investments. Economic forecasts for Asia, Oceania, plus Central and Latin America have been adjusted downwards. Experts in the US expect the economy to remain extremely weak. The US central bank also anticipates a further downturn in the US economy in 2009, and does not see brighter prospects before 2010. According to the Ifo Institute, GDP in 2009 is set to fall by 1 percent in real terms. Experts predict a real-term decrease in GDP of 0.3 percent for Canada, compared with a 3.1 percent rise in Central and Latin America. The Asian economy is set to remain stable, although a slight downturn is expected for East Asia and China due to tapering exports. Average annual growth for the Asia region is forecast at 3.0 percent until 2010. The outlook for China, however, is significantly healthier, with real GDP set to grow by 7.5 percent, fuelled by a range of factors including the expansion of infrastructure projects. In India and Asian emerging economies, growth is expected to slow down. Prospects for almost all EU states are less than optimistic for 2009. The economic climate has cooled dramatically in this region. The EU Commission anticipates a recession and expects that EU GDP will contract 1.8 percent in 2009, recovering somewhat in 2010. Central and Eastern European countries are also set to experience a sluggish climate in 2009. Furthermore, experts expect increasingly stringent lending policies, which will further dampen companies’ propensity to invest. Real GDP in Europe is expected to fall by 1.1 percent. The crisis on the international financial markets and the threat of global recession are a particular threat to Germany due to its almost unique dependence on the global economy. Due to the country’s heavy reliance on exports, the EU Commission and the German government expect Germany to enter a hard-hitting recession and GDP to shrink around 2.5 percent. Deutsche Bank puts this figure even higher at five percent. The situation is not set to improve until 2010. Outlook for construction and agricultural industries Construction industry dependent on dynamics of economy as a whole Stable prospects for the agricultural industry High demand worldwide for construction work The prospects for the construction industry for 2009 are dampened by the threat of global recession, despite the fact that numerous infrastructural investments are pending worldwide, including road, rail, transport and telecommunications projects. A number of governments have already included measures aimed at promoting infrastructure and public education in their economic recovery plans, which will provide impetus for the construction industry. However, experts across the globe are predicting that real estate prices will drop significantly, which will cause construction investment to drop. In the long term, prospects for nonresidential construction in particular are good. The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) estimates the worldwide demand for infrastructural investment at USD 70,000 billion. If the American construction industry is to recover, the real estate market must stabilize. Although investment in residential construction is due to decrease in 2009, at just Opportunities and outlook 1.6 percent the rate of decline is less severe than that experienced over the past two years. A number of indicators point to a decrease in non-residential construction over the course of 2009. This means that a lot will depend on how quickly the investment program agreed by the US Congress to the value of approximately USD 800 billion can be channeled into the construction and improvement of highway and bridge infrastructure. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) predicts a fall of 1.9 percent in the demand for light equipment in the US in 2009. In India, construction industry sales are expected to quadruple to USD 13 billion by 2015, due to increased demand for compact equipment to support infrastructure projects. In 2009 in China, approximately USD 3 billion is due to be invested in infrastructure projects. A downturn is forecast for the European construction industry in 2009. Experts from Euroconstruct predict that the European construction market will shrink in 2009 by 4.3 percent. This figure is estimated at 4.8 percent for Western Europe. Only commercial and underground construction are expected to develop positively, with the help of vital infrastructure projects aimed at road and rail networks, telecommunication services, water supplies, renovation and modernization works, public education buildings, and climate and environmental protection. Euroconstruct’s experts predict declines in the non-residential construction market of 3.6 percent in 2009 and 0.6 percent in 2010. The outlook is particularly bleak for the non-residential construction market in Western Europe, with a fall of 4 percent predicted for 2009 and a further drop of 0.8 percent in 2010. In Central and Eastern Europe, growth in 2009 will drop to 2.5 percent. Growth will also be stunted in European underground construction in 2009, estimated at just 0.5 percent. In 2010 and 2011, an average growth rate of 3.7 percent respectively is expected. The negative trend on the European housing market will continue in 2009. Euroconstruct’s experts forecast a drop in residential construction of 7.1 percent. For 2010, they predict a fall of 0.5 percent. Experts predict an end to the crisis in the European housing market in 2011 at the earliest. 0.9 percent. The economic action plan initiated by the German government could help relieve the investment deadlock at municipal level. Projects to improve municipal infrastructure, extend and reconstruct highways, and improve telecommunications and the rail network may also provide impetus. Euroconstruct predict a 0.5 percent growth in underground construction in Germany through 2010 and 2011. Nonresidential construction is predicted to fall by 0.3 percent in 2009, but show an average annual growth of 0.5 percent between 2009 and 2011. The outlook for the renovation and modernization sectors in the years from 2009 to 2011 is moderately positive. Opportunities in the agricultural industry Experts’ outlook for the agricultural industry is positive, in spite of the negative prospects in the construction industry, as agriculture is subject to different cycles. The agricultural industry is also gaining in weight as an economic driver in certain countries as the demand for food and alternative fuels continues to grow. This is fuelling demand for technical production equipment. However, the VDMA forecasts a slight drop in sales of agricultural machinery for 2009, with worldwide growth not expected until 2010 and 2011. The VDMA predicts that the current structural shift prompting a decrease in the number of agricultural holdings and an increase in size of those holdings will continue at the present rate. The pressure to increase production of foodstuffs and animal feed, as well as renewable resources remains high. Experts therefore predict an increase in the mechanization of land cultivation, which will drive worldwide demand for agricultural machinery in the long term. Opportunities and outlook for the future development of Wacker Neuson SE Efficient business model Medium and long-term growth opportunities, despite market uncertainty Business developments hard to predict for 2009 at the present time In Germany, experts predict that construction investments in 2009 will be put on hold and the market will contract. Forecasts show that 2009 revenue will match the previous year’s level and investment in construction will drop by about 0.6 percent in 2009. Investment in commercial construction is expected to decline by 1.3 percent. Investments in residential construction are expected to fall by The Wacker Neuson Group is adhering to its long-term growth strategy and is well-positioned with its current business model. To achieve the goals set down in our business strategy, we intend to invest wisely and drive growth across all regions and business segments. 67 68 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 In view of the predicted general economic recession and unfavorable outlook for the international construction industry, we are cautious with regard to projections for the 2009 financial year. We are therefore focusing especially on adapting our organizational structure and internal processes to reflect current market dynamics. Development outlook by region The Wacker Neuson Group aims to strengthen its leading market position as a provider of light and compact equipment to the construction and agricultural industries worldwide. To promote growth in all regions, we are systematically aligning our activities with local market requirements. This is aimed at meeting growing customer demands for individual sales, rental and service solutions that align with local market dynamics on the one hand, and at gaining new customers on the other. Due to the recession in the construction industry, we expect a challenging business climate in Europe in 2009 and anticipate increased competition. Eastern Europe is the area where we see the most opportunities for 2009, particularly due to increasing state-sponsored investment in infrastructural projects. We also identify potential in the expansion of our launch strategy for compact equipment in countries where we have not sold this equipment in the past, as well as in the expansion of our rental business in Central and Eastern Europe. The Wacker Neuson Group continues to concentrate on improving internal processes, not only in the areas of production and logistics, but also in the tighter alignment of our sales and service network with market requirements. In the Americas region (particularly in the US), we anticipate that conditions will remain difficult during the 2009 financial year, due to the ongoing subprime crisis. Nevertheless, we aim to continue actively implementing measures to introduce compact equipment in the US and expand our network of exclusive Wacker Neuson dealers. It remains to be seen to what extent the global economic downturn will affect the Asia region. We aim to capitalize on the current positive construction industry climate in this region, including the infrastructure segment. In particular, we will continue to expand our sales networks in China and India to enhance our market position as a provider of highquality products and services. Development outlook by business segment The Wacker Neuson Group’s aim for fiscal 2009 and beyond is to consolidate its strong market position. We will be focusing strongly on changing customer needs, as well as service offerings tailored to market dynamics. We are adapting our product portfolio to further enhance our leading market position. To this end, we will be introducing new, high-quality products and product variants in the light and compact equipment segments to meet concrete customer demands. These products will be designed to meet the latest user safety and environmental protection requirements. We will also continue to introduce compact equipment via our existing worldwide sales and service network. The agricultural industry is tending towards larger holdings in Europe, which is fueling a rise in rationalization investments. This is flanked by increases in EU agricultural subsidies, and we are keen to capitalize on the additional opportunities this is opening up for agricultural products under our Weidemann brand over the coming years. Development in our services business segment is extremely positive. Here we are focusing on adapting the rental business in Central and Eastern Europe, as well as aligning our sales and service network with current market dynamics and customer requirements. We intend to further develop our service offering to reflect evolving customer needs, particularly in the spare parts and repairs business. Company forecast Capitalizing on medium and long-term opportunities In our view, long-term prospects for the Wacker Neuson Group are good, even if short-term prospects are overshadowed by the economic downturn. The Executive Board does not expect the comprehensive economic recovery plans to have any positive effect on the construction industry until the end of 2009 at the earliest, despite increased demand for construction projects in the infrastructure sector. The company is prepared for the fact that the anticipated worldwide downturn in the construction industry may well last into 2010 and may continue to impact on customer ordering patterns against the backdrop of intensified competition. Noteworthy here is the fact that the 2008/2009 winter period in the Europe region was more severe than the Opportunities and outlook same period the previous year. Due to this market uncertainty, it is difficult to precisely predict sales or profit before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA). We have thus decided not to publish a forecast for 2009, but expect a drop in sales and earnings. Taking a long-term view, opportunities in the construction industry will arise from climate change and a greater focus on environmental policies. The rise in weather-related damage, coupled with the necessary cleanup and repair work, will increasingly place the spotlight on preventive measures. This will be flanked by roadway reconstruction projects, more efficient repair procedures and redevelopment of residential property with a view to increasing energy efficiency. Our global presence and proximity to our customers in key target markets, as well as the renowned quality of our products and services, particularly after the merger, give us added confidence in our ability to continue expanding our leading global position in the medium to long term. In the medium term, we will also consider strategic acquisitions where these enhance our product portfolio to the benefit of our customers and increase our opportunities for international expansion. The Wacker Neuson Group is financially stable, showing liquidity of EUR 67.5 million and an equity ratio of 77.4 percent. We aim to keep net debt as close as possible to last year’s level. We also plan to lower our working capital. At the AGM in Munich, May 28, 2009, the Executive and Super visory Boards will propose a dividend of EUR 0.19 per eligible share. This ensures the continuance of our dividend policy, but also reflects current market dynamics. Summary forecast Due to difficult market conditions, we are expecting sales and earnings to fall in the current fiscal year. However, we forecast that the investment deadlock will begin to ease from 2010 onwards, which will lead to renewed demand for construction projects and therefore construction equipment. Our product portfolio and service offering are still in demand on the market. We are determined to consolidate and expand our market position in order to emerge strengthened from these times of crisis. Munich, March 23, 2009 In the current fiscal year, we want to place particular focus on securing our strong finance and asset status. For this reason, we have significantly reduced planned investments. In 2009 we plan to invest approximately EUR 60 million compared with EUR 101.8 million in fiscal 2008. Measures aimed at reducing costs have been initiated in a number of areas and are being implemented. This includes extending flexibility in terms of working hours, short-time working and deferral of investment projects. We are also planning to further reduce our sales and administration costs. (Wacker Construction Equipment AG until February 18, 2009) Executive Board Dr.-Ing. Georg Sick (CEO and President) Martin Lehner (Deputy CEO) Planned investments (extract) in € million Wacker Neuson SE, Munich, Germany Richard Mayer 2009 Expansion of rental business in Central and Günther C. Binder Eastern Europe 10.0 Construction of new center for research and development in Munich, Germany 16.0 Purchase of land in Hoersching, Austria 9.2 Investments for improving production processes 4.0 Expansion of sales and service station 5.0 Werner Schwind 69 70 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Contents Income Statement | 71 15 Other current assets | 98 Balance Sheet | 72 16 Cash and cash equivalents | 99 Cash Flow Statement | 74 17 Equity | 99 Statement of Changes in Equity | 75 18 Provisions for pensions and Segmentation | 76 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements | 78 General information on accounting standards | 78 Accounting and valuation methods | 83 Explanatory comments on the similar obligations | 101 19 Other provisions | 105 20 Financial liabilities | 106 21 Trade payables | 107 22 Other current liabilities | 107 23 Derivative financial instruments | 108 Other information | 109 24 Contingent liabilities | 109 | 110 income statement | 89 25 Other financial liabilities 1 Revenue | 89 26 Additional information on 2 Other income | 89 financial instruments 3 Personnel expenses | 89 27 Events since reporting date | 114 4 Other operating expenses | 89 28 Segmentation | 115 5 Financial result | 90 29 Cash flow statement | 115 6 Taxes on income | 90 30 Risk management | 116 7 Earnings per share | 91 31 Acquisitions and disposals | 118 | 112 32 Overview of equity investments in Explanatory comments on the non-consolidated companies | 119 balance sheet | 92 33 Executive bodies | 119 8 Property, plant and equipment | 92 34 Related party disclosures | 120 9 Investment properties | 93 35 Auditor’s fee | 122 | 93 36 Declaration regarding the German 10 Intangible assets 11 Other investments and other non-current assets Corporate Governance Codex | 97 | 122 37 Release for publication | 122 12 Inventories | 97 13 Trade receivables | 97 Responsibility Statement | 122 14 Marketable securities | 98 Unqualified Auditor’s Opinion | 123 Income Statement Income Statement For the period from January 1 through December 31 in € K Revenue Notes (1) Jan. 1- Dec. 31, 20071 870,331 742,062 Cost of sales - 576,885 - 459,530 Gross profit 293,446 282,532 - 156,486 - 140,090 Research and development expenses - 25,056 - 20,810 General administrative expenses - 53,487 - 48,289 Sales and service expenses Other income (2) 11,023 8,421 Other expenses (4) - 11,451 - 2,859 57,989 78,905 Profit before interest and tax (EBIT) Financial result (5) Profit before tax (EBT) Taxes on income (6) Profit for the period before minority interests Minority interests Profit for the period Earnings per share (in euros) (diluted and undiluted) 1 Jan. 1- Dec. 31, 2008 Incl. Q4 Neuson Kramer subgroup (7) - 2,308 - 660 55,681 78,245 - 17,576 - 24,142 38,105 54,103 - 716 23 37,389 54,126 0.53 1.10 71 72 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Balance Sheet Balance at December 31 Notes Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 20071 Property, plant and equipment (8) 272,934 221,869 Investment property (9) 2,708 2,105 Goodwill (10) 326,059 325,676 Intangible assets (10) 98,438 100,220 Other investments (11) 3,420 1,649 (6) 13,450 10,994 in € K Assets Deferred taxes Other long-term assets (11) Total long-term assets 34,523 697,036 Inventories (12) 217,030 175,130 Trade receivables (13) 119,188 161,211 Marketable securities (14) 1,894 88,656 10,402 3,492 Current tax receivables Other current assets (15) 14,489 12,169 Cash and cash equivalents (16) 65,600 76,816 428,603 517,474 1,178,611 1,214,510 Total current assets Total assets 1 32,999 750,008 Incl. Q4 Neuson Kramer subgroup Balance Sheet Notes Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 20071 Subscribed capital (17) 70,140 70,140 Other reserves (17) 582,516 586,186 Retained earnings (17) 256,432 254,113 909,088 910,439 in € K Equity and liabilities Equity before minority interests Minority interests 2,731 2,280 911,819 912,719 (20) 38,845 44,219 (6) 31,989 33,724 (18)(19) 29,288 29,200 100,122 107,143 (21) 32,290 63,084 Short-term borrowings from banks (20) 81,742 72,103 Current portion of long-term borrowings (20) 5,876 6,073 Short-term provisions (19) 11,112 9,324 466 1,366 Total equity Long-term borrowings Deferred taxes Long-term provisions Total non-current liabilities Trade payables Current tax payable Other liabilities Total current liabilities Total liabilities (22) 35,184 42,698 166,670 194,648 1,178,611 1,214,510 73 74 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Cash Flow Statement For the period from January 1 through December 31 Jan. 1- Dec. 31, 2008 Jan. 1- Dec. 31, 20072 EBT 55,681 78,245 Depreciation and amortization 42,954 38,083 Other major non-cash income 0 - 1,640 - 3,852 - 8,139 - 29 48 Book value from the disposal of rental equipment 3,044 3,423 Gains/losses from derivatives (cash flow hedging) 452 - 93 in € K Foreign exchange result Gains/losses from sale of intangible assets and property, plant and equipment Financial result Changes in inventories Changes in trade receivables and other assets Changes in provisions Changes in trade payables and other liabilities Interest paid Income tax paid Cash flow from operating activities Purchase of property, plant and equipment Purchase of intangible assets Proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets Purchase of marketable securities 41,771 4,798 1,876 - 503 - 33,475 - 3,196 - 8,136 - 7,854 - 29,561 - 33,973 31,133 54,980 - 93,134 - 81,571 - 8,654 - 2,469 1,440 895 0 - 122,078 85,674 46,987 Change in consolidation structure - 1,771 10,572 6,976 5,910 - 9,469 - 141,754 0 165,000 - 69 - 5,582 Cash flow from investing activities Issue of new shares Costs of procuring capital Dividends - 35,335 - 24,273 Proceeds/income from short-term borrowings 19,119 12,183 Repayment of long-term borrowings - 5,400 - 50,606 - 173 - 306 - 21,858 96,416 - 194 9,642 Payment of finance lease liabilities Cash flow from financing activities Increase/decrease in cash and cash equivalents 2 660 - 14,879 Proceeds received on the sale of marketable securities Interest received 1 2,308 - 41,900 Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents - 1,259 1,106 Change in cash and cash equivalents - 1,453 10,748 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period1 38,792 28,044 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period1 37,339 38,792 Borrowings from banks from the group’s cash pool accounts are netted. Incl. Q4 Neuson Kramer subgroup Statement of Changes in Equity Statement of Changes in Equity Balance at December 31 Equity Exchange Subin € K before Other scribed Capital differ- neutral Retained Treasury minority Minority Total capital reserves ences changes earnings shares interests interests equity Balance at December 31, 2006 43,500 72,330 - 21,526 501 224,260 - 36,691 282,374 0 282,374 Exchange differences 0 0 - 11,319 0 0 0 - 11,319 0 - 11,319 Other neutral changes 0 0 0 80 0 0 - 11,239 0 - 11,239 54,103 Subtotal Profit for the period 80 80 0 0 0 0 54,126 0 54,126 - 23 42,887 - 23 42,864 0 0 0 0 - 24,273 0 - 24,273 0 - 24,273 7,500 157,500 0 0 0 0 165,000 0 165,000 19,140 394,202 0 0 0 36,691 450,033 2,303 452,336 0 - 5,582 0 0 0 0 - 5,582 0 - 5,582 December 31, 2007 1 70,140 618,450 - 32,845 581 254,113 0 910,439 2,280 912,719 Exchange differences 0 0 - 4,069 0 0 0 - 4,069 0 - 4,069 Other neutral changes 0 0 0 452 0 0 452 - 3,617 0 - 3,617 0 0 0 0 37,389 0 37,389 716 38,105 33,772 716 34,488 Dividends 0 0 0 0 - 35,070 0 - 35,070 - 265 - 35,335 Costs of procuring capital 0 - 53 0 0 0 0 - 53 0 - 53 70,140 618,397 - 36,914 1,033 256,432 0 909,088 2,731 911,819 Total profit for the period Dividends Issue of new shares (IPO) Contribution of Neuson Kramer Costs of procuring capital Balance at Subtotal Profit for the period Total profit for the period 452 Balance at December 31, 2008 1 Incl. Q4 Neuson Kramer subgroup 75 76 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Segmentation For the period from January 1 through December 31 Primary segmentation (geographical segments) in € K Europe Americas Asia Consolidation Group 2008 Segment revenue Total external sales Less intrasegment sales 928,489 246,175 38,610 - 207,716 - 35,799 - 1,881 720,773 210,376 36,729 Intersegment sales - 44,620 - 43,440 - 9,487 Total 676,153 166,936 27,242 45,774 11,599 1,393 0 0 0 45,774 11,599 1,393 - 777 57,989 Investments 88,025 7,080 1,840 0 96,945 Depreciation and amortization 37,979 4,351 624 0 42,954 5,489 2,096 54 0 7,639 908,956 142,340 22,710 - 24,227 1,049,779 81,760 22,607 3,744 - 4,687 103,424 0 870,331 Segment result (EBIT) From continuing business segments From discontinued business segments Total Other information Non-cash expenses Balance sheet Segment assets Segment liabilities Segmentation in € K Europe Americas Asia Consolidation Group 0 742,062 2007 Segment revenue Total external sales Less intrasegment sales 694,179 282,535 42,861 - 142,771 - 32,756 - 1,838 551,408 249,779 41,023 Intersegment sales - 30,750 - 53,724 - 15,674 Total 520,658 196,055 25,349 50,884 25,761 3,105 0 0 0 50,884 25,761 3,105 - 845 78,905 471,045 10,333 2,989 0 484,367 32,686 4,833 562 0 38,081 2,979 1,697 322 0 4,998 Segment assets 862,144 126,602 20,934 - 13,034 996,646 Segment liabilities 108,848 22,234 3,030 - 628 133,484 2008 20071 Light equipment 331,352 408,170 Compact equipment 355,979 179,480 Services 188,507 159,657 875,838 747,307 - 5,507 - 5,245 870,331 742,062 Segment result (EBIT) From continuing business segments From discontinued business segments Total Other information Investments Depreciation and amortization Non-cash expenses Balance sheet Secondary segmentation (business segments) in € K Segment revenue from external customers Less cash discounts Total 1 Incl. Q4 Neuson Kramer subgroup 77 78 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements General information on accounting standards reflects the company’s management structures and represents the risk and profit structure of its operations worldwide. Appli- Wacker Neuson SE (formerly: Wacker Construction Equipment cation of IFRS 8 (which the Group will use for fiscal years start- AG) has its headquarters in Munich, Germany, at Preussen- ing on or after January 1, 2009) would not result in any funda- strasse 41, and is registered in the local German Register of mental changes in segment structure based on affiliate head- Companies in Munich (“Handelsregister München”) under quarters, but would result in additional explanations and notes. Section B, No. 177839 (formerly: No. 144236). On October 15, 2008, the EU endorsed amendments to IAS 39 Trading in the company’s shares commenced on May 2007 in und IFRS 7. This allows companies to reclassify certain financial the Prime Standard segment of the German stock exchange on instruments as of July 1, 2008. The early, elective application of the regulated market. The company has been listed in the SDAX these amendments did not have an affect on the Consolidated since September 2007. Financial Statements of the Group. The financial statements for fiscal 2008 (which include previous IAS 23 (Borrowing Costs) was endorsed by the EU on October year figures) were prepared in accordance with the International 10, 2008. This standard supersedes the revised IAS 23 dating Accounting Standards (IAS) as approved and published by the from 1993 and must be applied to fiscal years beginning on or International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and the Inter- after January 1, 2009. The Group has not applied the revisions national Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as interpreted in IAS 23 to the current consolidated financial statements. It is by the Standing Interpretations Committee (SIC) and Interna- not expected that the application of IAS 23 will have a material tional Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (IFRIC) effect on the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit and as adopted by the EU, and the additional requirements of the loss of the Group. German Commercial Code (HGB) set forth in Section 315a (1). All valid and binding standards for fiscal 2008 have been applied The following amendments were endorsed by the EU on and give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial December 16, 2008: amendments to IFRS 2 (Share-Based Pay- position and profit and loss of the Group. ments) must be applied to financial statements covering fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2009; and IFRIC 13 For the following statements, the Group primarily applies (Customer Loyalty Programs) must be applied to financial state- IFRIC 14 (IAS 19 – The Limit on a Defined Benefit Asset, Mini- ments covering fiscal years beginning on or after July 1 2008. mum Funding Requirements and their Interaction). This has no The Group has chosen to apply these new elective regulations effect on the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit and to its consolidated financial statements for 2008. This did not loss of the Group. result in any changes to the consolidated financial statements. IFRS 8 (Operating Segments) was issued on November 30, IAS 1 (Presentation of Financial Statements, as revised in 2007) 2006, by the IASB and adopted by the European Union (EU) on was endorsed by the EU on December 17, 2008. This standard November 21, 2007, and will be mandatory for fiscal years start- supersedes the previous version of IAS 1 and must be applied ing on or after January 1, 2009. IFRS 8 regulates financial and to fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2009. The Group descriptive reporting of information relating to segments re- has not applied the revisions in IAS 1 to the current consolidated quired to disclose information on their operations. In these Con- financial statements. Application would result in changes to the solidated Financial Statements, the Group reports its segments presentation of the consolidated financial statements but would in accordance with IAS 14. These are structured geographically not, however, fundamentally alter the presentation of assets, according to the headquarters of each affiliate. This approach liabilities, financial position and profit and loss of the Group. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements The EU endorsed further amendments to IAS 1 (Presentation IFRIC 15 (Agreements for the Construction of Real Estate) of Financial Statements) and IAS 32 (Financial Instruments: standardizes accounting practice for the recognition of rev- Presentation) in January 2009: These amendments concern enue by real estate developers for sales of real estate units; companies which have issued puttable financial instruments this amendment must be applied to fiscal years beginning or financial instruments which give rise to a claim to company on or after January 1, 2009; assets on liquidation and must be applied to fiscal years begin- IFRIC 16 (Hedges of a Net Investment in a Foreign Opera- ning on or after January 1, 2009. The Group has not applied tion) clarifies issues arising from IAS 21 (Foreign Exchange the new regulations to the current consolidated financial state- Rates) and IAS 39 (Financial Instruments: Recognition and ments. Application would not have had any impact on the con- Measurement) and must be applied to fiscal years beginning solidated financial statements. on or after October 1, 2008; IFRIC 17 (Distributions of Non-Cash Assets to Owners) ad- Amendments to IFRS 1 (First Time Adoption of International dresses the distribution of dividends to company owners in Financial Reporting Standards) and to IAS 27 (Consolidated non-financial form and must be applied to fiscal years begin- and Separate Financial Statements) were also endorsed by the ning on or after July 1, 2009; EU in January 2009. These concern the recognition of costs of IFRIC 18 (Transfers of Assets from Customers) is particularly an investment in an affiliate or jointly controlled company. The relevant to utilities and must be applied to fiscal years begin- amendments must be applied to fiscal years beginning on ning on or after July 1, 2009. or after January 1, 2009. The Group has not applied the new regulations to the current consolidated financial statements. The Consolidated Financial Statements of the Group comprise Application would not have had any impact on the consolidated the consolidated income statement, the consolidated balance financial statements. sheet, the notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, the The following amendments to standards or interpretations have statement of changes in equity. In addition, a Group Manage- not yet been adopted by the EU and are unlikely to result in sub- ment Report was prepared in accordance with Section 315a stantial changes to future consolidated financial statements: HGB. consolidated cash flow statement, as well as the consolidated Amendment to IFRS 3 (Business Combinations) mainly The Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in affecting the introduction of an accounting policy choice to euros. The figures are presented in thousand euros (EUR K), measure non-controlling interests (full goodwill method); rounded to the nearest thousand, unless otherwise stated. this amendment must be applied to fiscal years beginning on or after July 1, 2009; The consolidated income statement was prepared in the “cost- Amendment to IAS 39 (Financial Instruments: Recognition of-sales” format. and Measurement) to facilitate the recognition of a hedging relationship when hedging against exposures arising from Line of business financial instruments; this amendment must be applied to With its roots dating back to 1848, the company is now a fiscal years beginning on or after July 1, 2009; leading global manufacturer of high-quality light construction IFRIC 12 (Definition of Service Concession Arrangements) equipment (weighing up to approximately 3 tons) and compact addresses arrangements whereby a government or other construction equipment (weighing up to approximately 14 tons). public sector body contracts with a private operator to pro- Wacker Neuson provides a comprehensive one-stop offering, vide a public service (roads, hospitals, utilities, etc.). IFRS extending from development and production through sales and requires that this interpretation is applied to fiscal years rentals to repairs and service. The entire product portfolio beginning as of January 1, 2008 but it has not yet been legally comprises over 300 product groups. Following the merger with endorsed by the EU and may not be applied to the current the former Neuson Kramer Baumaschinen AG (now Wacker financial statements; Neuson Beteiligungs GmbH) and its affiliates in 2007, the new consolidated Wacker Neuson Group started offering its products and services under the new main brand “Wacker Neuson” 79 80 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 in 2008. The company will also continue to market some com- Closing date pact equipment under the “Weidemann” and “Kramer Allrad” The closing date for all companies included in the Consoli- brands in the future. Furthermore, the company CLAAS Global dated Financial Statements is December 31 of the respective Sales GmbH, which now has an indirect 5.1 percent stake in year. The current accounting period is January 1, 2008 through Kramer-Werke GmbH, distributes telescopic loaders devel- December 31, 2008. oped and manufactured by Kramer in the agricultural industry under the brand “CLAAS” based on distribution agreement Consolidation structure concluded with Kramer-Werke GmbH. In addition to the parent company, Wacker Neuson SE (formerly: Wacker Construction Equipment AG), the Consolidated Financial Statements include the following entities in which the company has the following direct or indirect shareholdings: Company Name City Country Direct Drillfix AG Volketswil (near Zurich) Switzerland 100% Indirect Segment Europe Nippon Wacker Co., Ltd. Tokyo Japan 100% Asia Wacker Neuson Equipment Private Ltd. Bangalore India 100% Asia Wacker Machinery Limited Dublin Ireland 100% Europe Wacker Neuson Beteiligungs GmbH Leonding (near Linz) Austria 100% Europe Wacker Neuson Linz GmbH Wacker Neuson Rhymney Ltd. Kramer-Werke GmbH Leonding (near Linz) Austria 100% Europe Tredegar Great Britain 100% Europe Pfullendorf Germany 95% Europe Düsseldorf Germany 95% 90% Europe Geisingen Germany 100% 95% Europe Leonding (near Linz) Austria 98% Europe Södra Sandby (near Malmö) Sweden 100% Europe PADEM Grundstücks-Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH & Co. Objekt Gutmadingen KG STG Stahl- und Maschinenbautechnik Gutmadingen GmbH Wacker Neuson Finance Immorent GmbH Wacker Neuson AB Wacker Neuson AG Volketswil (near Zurich) Switzerland 100% Europe Wacker Neuson AS Hagan (near Oslo) Norway 100% Europe Wacker Neuson A/S Karlslunde Denmark 100% Europe Wacker Neuson B.V. Amersfoort Netherlands 100% Europe Wacker Neuson Corporation EQUIPRO Inc. Menomonee Falls (near Milwaukee) USA 100% Americas Germantown (near Milwaukee) USA 100% Americas Wacker Neuson GmbH Moscow Russia 100% Europe Wacker Neuson GmbH Vienna Austria 100% Europe Wacker Neuson Kft. Törökbálint (near Budapest) Hungary 100% Europe Wacker Neuson Limited Hong Kong China 100% Asia Wacker Neuson Machinery Trading Shenzhen China 100% Asia Wacker Neuson Limited (Shenzhen) Ltd. Co. Samutprakarn (near Bangkok) Thailand 100% Asia Wacker Neuson Ltda. Huechuraba (near Santiago) Chile 100% Americas Wacker Neuson Ltd. Mississauga (near Toronto) Canada 100% Americas Wacker Neuson Ltd. Waltham Cross (near London) Great Britain 100% Europe Wacker Neuson Limited Auckland New Zealand 100% Asia Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Company Name City Country Direct Indirect Segment Wacker Neuson Makina Limited Sirketi ˛ Küçükbakkalköy (near Istanbul) Turkey 100% Europe Wacker Neuson Manila, Inc. Dasmariñas (near Manila) Philippines 100% Asia Wacker Neuson Máquinas Ltda. Jundiaí (near São Paulo) Brazil 100% Americas Wacker Neuson Oy Kerava (near Helsinki) Finland 100% Europe Wacker Neuson Pty Ltd Springvale (near Melbourne) Australia 100% Asien Wacker Neuson (Pty) Ltd Florida (near Johannesburg) South Africa 100% Europe Wacker Neuson S.A. Torrejón de Ardoz (near Madrid) Spain 100% Europe Wacker Neuson S.A. de C.V. Mexiko City Mexico 100% Americas Wacker Neuson S.A.S. Brie-Comte-Robert (near Paris) France 100% Europe Wacker Neuson Sp. z o.o. Jawczyce (near Warsaw) Poland 100% Europe Wacker Neuson srl con socio unico San Giorgio di Piano (near Bologna) Italy 100% Europe Wacker Neuson s.r.o. Prag Czech Republic 100% Europe Weidemann GmbH Diemelsee-Flechtdorf Germany 100% Europe The following companies are not included in the consolidation The following legal changes were made or approved vis-à-vis structure: the company structure in fiscal 2008: With effect as of March 1, 2008, the affiliate Wacker Neuson Company Name Country Direct Indirect Serbia 100% Serbia 100% Great Britain 100% USA 100% 95% France 100% 95% Germany 100% 95% Germany 100% 95% Wacker Neuson Kragujevac d.o.o. Stambach Baumaschinen GesmbH, also a consolidated company of the Wacker Neuson Group. The asset deal between Wacker Neuson Lapovo d.o.o. Wacker Neuson GmbH as the purchaser and Stambach Baumaschinen GesmbH as the seller does not classify as a busi- NK Administration Limited ness combination under IFRS 3, as both companies are under the common control of Wacker Neuson SE (formerly: Wacker Kramer-Allrad of North America Inc. Construction Equipment AG). Kramer-Allrad France S.A.R.L On June 30, 2008, Stambach Baumaschinen GesmbH was Wacker Neuson Immobilien GmbH GmbH in Vienna purchased the entire business operations of incorporated into Neuson Baumaschinen GmbH. The name and legal form of Neuson Baumaschinen GmbH has in the meantime been changed to Wacker Neuson Linz GmbH. Wacker Neuson Wohnungsbau GmbH The company established a new affiliate in India in the first quarter of 2008. During the course of 2008, this affiliate did not have any significant impact on the assets, liabilities, financial Originally a wholly owned subsidiary of the Wacker Neuson Corporation, Ground Heaters, Inc., in Spring Lake, Michigan (USA) was liquidated on December 8, 2008. All business operations have been transferred to the original parent company Wacker Neuson Corporation. position and profit and loss of the Group. 81 82 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 At the end of second quarter, the legal form and name of Equity was consolidated according to the acquisition method. Neuson Kramer Baumaschinen AG were changed to Wacker For the first consolidation of subsidiaries acquired after Janu- Neuson Beteiligungs GmbH. This took place as part of the ary 1, 2003, all identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent integration of the Neuson Kramer subgroup. liabilities of the acquired companies are recognized at fair values. Furthermore, another affiliate was established in Serbia ( Wacker Neuson Lapovo d.o.o) during the second quarter. After reevaluation of all hidden assets and liabilities of compa- This involved an outlay of EUR 1.5 million. During the course nies acquired after January 1, 2003, any credit balances re- of 2008, this affiliate did not have any significant impact on maining are capitalized as goodwill resulting from the equity the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit and loss of consolidation and are subjected to an annual impairment test. the Group. It will supply the Group with structural steel components. Intercompany receivables and payables as well as purchases and sales between consolidated Group companies are elimi- The merger of Neuson Finance GmbH in Linz with Wacker nated. Group inventories and fixed assets are adjusted to re- Neuson Linz GmbH was executed on October 31, 2008. flect intercompany profits. During the AGM on June 3, 2008 in Munich, shareholders Consolidation transactions affecting income are subject to de- approved the proposal to change the company’s legal form to ferred tax. Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are an SE (Societas Europaea) and its name to Wacker Neuson SE. set off against each other, provided that the term of payment The majority of affiliates have renamed to Wacker Neuson as and the creditors are the same. a result of this change. Exchange differences The following restructuring alignments were also approved: The annual financial statements of the foreign affiliates have liquidation of the dormant company Wacker Machinery Ltd. in been translated into euros according to the concept of the Ireland; plus a merger between French-based NK Administra- functional currency. The functional currency is taken to refer to tion S.r.l., which has been in liquidation since 2005, and the relevant national currency, with the exception of the Philip- Wacker Neuson SAS in France. pines (US dollar). Thus, assets and liabilities are translated at the spot rates of exchange effective at the balance sheet date, On November 6, 2008, the Executive and Supervisory Boards whereas the items of the income statement are translated at resolved to close the production plant in Tredegar (Wales, the average annual rates of exchange. Great Britain), thus dissolving the Group member Wacker Neuson Rhymney Ltd. Production of Wacker Neuson four- Exchange differences arising from the application of different wheel dumpers is to be transferred to the Austrian plant in exchange rates for balance sheet and income statement are Linz. recorded directly as a separate item of equity so they have no impact on the financial result. Consolidation principles The Consolidated Financial Statements are based on the annual financial statements of the companies included, which were prepared in accordance with IFRS. The annual financial statements of the consolidated domestic and foreign companies were prepared according to the uniform accounting and valuation methods applied by the company. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 1 Euro equals 2008 2007 Annual average rates 2008 2007 Rates at balance sheet date Australia AUD 1.7492 1.6361 2.0257 1.6775 Brazil BRL 2.6881 2.6604 3.2843 2.6205 Chile CLP 777.9500 719.4833 900.4000 732.4000 Denmark DKK 7.4556 7.4511 7.4518 7.4581 UK GBP 0.8038 0.6873 0.9600 0.7346 Hong Kong HKD 11.4731 10.7562 10.8323 11.4760 INR 64.3776 – 68.4300 – Japan JPY 151.4825 162.0433 126.4000 165.0000 Canada CAD 1.5655 1.4651 1.7160 1.4440 Mexico MXN 16.4258 15.0650 19.3500 16.0700 New Zealand NZD 2.0929 1.8621 2.4177 1.9003 Norway NOK 8.2841 8.0027 9.7900 7.9650 Philippines USD 1.4741 1.3790 1.3977 1.4716 India Poland PLN 3.5383 3.7834 4.1823 3.5928 Russia RUB 36.8383 34.8396 42.2650 35.9950 Sweden SEK 9.6855 9.2628 10.9150 9.4350 Switzerland CHF 1.5786 1.6461 1.4860 1.6557 South Africa ZAR 12.1115 9.6862 13.1698 10.0300 Thailand THB 49.0758 44.3608 48.8550 43.8250 Czech Republic CZK 24.9833 27.6900 26.5850 26.5750 Turkey TRY 1.9196 1.7826 2.1520 1.7135 Hungary HUF 250.9683 251.3558 264.5050 252.3250 USA USD 1.4741 1.3790 1.3977 1.4716 Concerning exchange differences without effects on profits, Property, plant and equipment please refer to the statement of changes in equity. In accordance with IAS 16, tangible assets are valued at acquisition costs less scheduled straight-line depreciation. For a limited number of existing items, the declining balance method Accounting and valuation methods for depreciation was employed. Realization of profits The individual tangible asset groups are depreciated over the For contracts for the sales of goods, profits are realized when following useful lives, applying the straight-line depreciation the goods have been delivered (passing of risk), whereas profits method: arising from the provision of services are realized on completion of the contracted work. Operating expenses are recognized when the service has been rendered, or at the date the costs in years are incurred. Interest income is accrued based on the outstand- Land and buildings 5 – 66 ing principal of the loan and the applicable interest rates. The Machinery and equipment 2 – 10 borrowing costs are recognized in the period in which they are Office and other equipment 3 – 20 incurred according to the benchmark method. Financing costs are not capitalized. Useful life 83 84 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Investment properties All other leasing contracts are classified as operating leases. Land and buildings held for the purpose of generating rental In such cases, the leasing installments or the rental payments revenue are disclosed at net book value, whereby the respec- are shown as an expense in the income statement. tive useful life employed for depreciation (straight-line, according to pro rata temporis) corresponds to fixed assets in use. When the Group is the lessor Goodwill/acquisitions agreement transfers all material risks and rewards associated Acquisitions are reported according to the acquisition method. with the leased object to the lessee. All other leasing contracts Consequently, income of the acquired company is included in are classified as operating leases. Amounts to be paid by les- the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Group starting sees resulting from finance leases are entered as receivables from the date of acquisition. For foreign companies that are in the amount of the net investment value ensuing from the acquired or founded, related acquisition costs are converted to leasing contract. Income from finance lease contracts is dis- euros at the spot rate effective at the date of purchase. tributed across accounting periods in such a way that that Leasing contracts are classified as finance leases if the lease regular periodic interest is recognized on the outstanding net The disclosed goodwill undergoes an impairment value test at investment value resulting from leasing contracts. Rental income the end of the accounting period in order to verify the value of from operating lease contracts is distributed and reflected in the amount reported on the balance sheet. In accordance with the balance sheet on a straight-line basis over the duration of IFRS 3/IAS 36, the goodwill is not subject to scheduled the relevant leasing contract. Initial direct costs attributable to straight-line amortization. the negotiation and conclusion of a leasing contract are to be allocated to the book value of the leased asset and distributed Intangible assets on a straight-line basis over the duration of the leasing Other intangible assets are capitalized at acquisition cost and contract. amortized on a straight-line basis assuming a projected useful life of three years for software or the individual lifetimes of the Inventories respective patents, licenses, technologies and order volumes. Inventories of work in process and finished products, as well Intangible assets having an unlimited useful life are not subject as raw materials and supplies, are valued at their acquisition to amortization but are tested for impairment at least once a and manufacturing costs respectively, in accordance with year. IAS 2. As far as the acquisition and manufacturing costs of inventories are above fair value, they will be written down to net Financing costs are not capitalized. realizable value at the balance sheet date. The net realizable value is the estimated sales price under normal business con- Leases ditions, less the estimated manufacturing and sales costs. To the extent that the net realizable value of formerly written-down When the Group is the lessee inventories has increased, corresponding write-ups will be Leasing transactions regarding tangible assets in which the made. Group as the lessee bears all material risks and rewards from the use of the leased object are treated as finance leases ac- In determining acquisition costs, incidental acquisition costs cording to IAS 17. In such cases, the lessee recognizes the are added, and rebates to purchase prices are deducted. leased object as an asset in the balance sheet and the payment obligation of future lease installments is disclosed as a Manufacturing costs include all expenses which are allocable liability item. Treatment as a finance lease leads to a depre- directly or indirectly to the manufacturing process. Borrowing ciation expense on the income statement, dependent upon costs are not included in manufacturing costs. the useful life of the leased object, and the related interest expense. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Acquisition and manufacturing costs for inventories were, for Recognition of gains and losses from derivative financial in- the main part, determined assuming that those assets which struments is subject to the requirements for hedge accounting were acquired first will also be consumed first (FIFO method). as set forth in IAS 39. To this end, upon initiation of such a The moving average cost procedure is also used to simplify the transaction, both the hedging instrument and the underlying valuation procedure. transaction are compared and the goals for risk management and the underlying strategy are documented. The Group verifies Production orders are not included. initially and continually whether or not the derivatives in a hedging relationship will effectively compensate for the changes Financial instruments and hedging transactions in cash flow of the underlying transactions. Derivative financial Financial instruments are contracts which include a payment instruments that do not satisfy hedge accounting requirements claim. In accordance with the regulations of IAS 32, they com- are allocated to the assets or liabilities held for trading and prise non-derivative financial instruments such as trade receiv- designated at fair value through profit or loss when first recog- ables and trade payables, or other receivables and payables nized and in subsequent fiscal years. Profits and losses realized resulting from financing transactions. They also include deriva- through fair value fluctuations are immediately recognized. tive financial instruments which are employed to hedge against currency risks, interest risks or price fluctuations. The forward exchange contracts and interest rate swaps employed by the Group are treated as cash flow hedges in Derivative financial instruments the balance sheet where changes in fair value are recorded The Wacker Neuson Group utilizes financial instruments such directly in equity. The other forward exchange contracts as foreign exchange forward contracts as well as interest rate do not satisfy formal hedge accounting requirements and are swaps exclusively for hedging purposes and for the minimiza- recognized in the balance sheet as being held for trading. tion of risks. Financial instruments without a corresponding underlying transaction are not carried out. Non-derivative financial instruments Non-derivative financial instruments as disclosed on the assets Derivative financial instruments are utilized to hedge against side of the balance sheet comprise investments, marketable interest rate risks and exchange rate risks. The goal of hedging securities and receivables. These items are valued either at activities is to reduce risks arising from variable interest rate amortized costs or at fair value (marketable securities). Assets borrowing and future transactions in foreign currencies. Their are recognized in the balance sheet for the first time when a maturities are termed to match the terms of the corresponding Group company becomes a party to a contract. Financial underlying transactions, and range from several months to assets are recognized as of the day of performance. Assets are several years. derecognized upon transfer of ownership or expiration of contractual rights to cash flows. Derivative financial instruments are capitalized initially at acquisition cost when the contract is entered into. Subsequently, they The carrying amounts of assets valued at amortized cost are are valued at fair value as of the closing date. verified if there are any indications that the book value exceeds the useful value or the net realizable value (impairment test). The fair value of derivative financial instruments is the price at Should the book value exceed the net realizable value, the which one party would assume the rights and/or obligations asset is written down. from another party. The fair values are based on market information available at the balance sheet date applying valuation Trade receivables and other receivables are recognized at their methods customary in the market as follows: nominal values less allowance for doubtful accounts based on the probable default risk. Long-term receivables are discounted Forward exchange contracts are evaluated by applying the market rates of transactions monitored. Interest rate contracts are valued by discounting the expected cash flow over the remaining maturity, whereby current interest rate curves are taken as the basis. at standard interest rates. 85 86 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Credit balances with financial institutions are recognized at Trade receivables and assets their nominal values. Liabilities are valued at their nominal Both trade receivables and other assets are principally valued values or at their higher repayment amounts effective at the at amortized costs. They are, as a rule, valued at nominal value closing date. Long-term liabilities for which either no interest prior to allowances for uncollectible accounts, and are classi- payments or below-market interest payments are to be made fied in the category “loans and receivables”, provided they are and the amounts of which fall due after more than one year are financial instruments. Allowances are recognized for the full discounted as of the balance sheet date. Financial liabilities are amount for those receivables and other current assets for which recognized in the balance sheet for the first time when a Group there is a high probability of default. Furthermore, general credit, company becomes a party to a contract. Financial liabilities interest and cash discount risks are recognized. are derecognized when paid. Cash and cash equivalents Research and development Cash and cash equivalents belong to the category “loans and Research costs are expensed in the consolidated income state- receivables” and are recognized at current value, which for ment in the period in which they are incurred. Development liquid funds in euro is equivalent to the nominal value. costs are capitalized provided that the total development costs fulfill IAS 38.57 requirements. These capitalized development Government subsidies costs are written down over a period of six years for assets Government subsidies are only recognized if there is reason- capitalized in 2008. Development costs capitalized in previous able assurance that the funding will be approved and that the years are written down over a period of four to five years. Amor- company fulfils the relevant criteria. Expense-related subsidies tization is taken using the straight-line method. are recognized by reducing the book value of the asset. The subsidy is then recognized as income through a reduced write- Marketable securities down value over the duration of the depreciable asset’s useful Marketable securities are recognized at fair value through profit life. or loss if they are held for trading or designated at fair value through profit or loss. Marketable securities are classified under Pensions and similar obligations the category “held for trading” if they were primarily obtained Provisions for pensions and similar obligations from defined for the purpose of sale in the short term. When first recognized, benefit plans are recognized following the Projected Unit marketable securities are designated at fair value through profit Credit Method, taking into consideration future adjustments in or loss if they are part of a group of financial assets that are remuneration payments and in pensions in compliance with the managed under a documented risk management or investment regulations as set forth in IAS 19. strategy and if their performance is evaluated based on their current fair value, and information about this portfolio’s perfor- Pension obligations in Germany are calculated using the mance is distributed internally. demographic tables for 2005 G developed by Prof. Klaus Heubeck. Pension obligations abroad are calculated using accounting principles and parameters specific to the corresponding country. Provisions for pensions as disclosed in the balance sheet are calculated from the value of the actual pension obligations less the fair value of plan assets as of the balance sheet date. Actuarial gains and losses are recognized according to the 10 percent corridor rule. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Service cost for vested rights to future pension payments results from the changes in the present value of the obligation. Material discretionary decisions, estimates and assumptions In preparing the financial statements, it has been necessary to The interest portion of the increase in pension provisions is, make estimates and assumptions which may influence the for the main part, disclosed under financial results. amounts and disclosure of assets and liabilities recognized on the balance sheet, income and expenses as well as contingent Payments under defined contribution plans are recognized liabilities. The estimates are based on past experience and other directly as an expense. assumptions deemed to be suitable under the given circumstances. The actual values can deviate from these estimates. Other provisions The estimates and assumptions are regularly verified and Other provisions are recognized in accordance with IAS 37 modified where necessary. when a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of a past event exists, when it is probable that an outflow of The following significant estimates and related assumptions, resources with economic benefits will be required to settle the together with the uncertainties associated with the accounting obligation, and when a reliable estimate of the amount of the and valuation methods applied are crucial in understanding the obligation can be made. Other provisions are made for all underlying risks of the financial report and the impact these recognizable obligations. Valuation and recognition are based estimates, assumptions and uncertainties could have on the on the best estimate of the amounts involved. Consolidated Financial Statements. Other provisions are set up for all recognizable risks as well Goodwill as for all contingent liabilities in the amount of the probable An assessment is carried out each year by the Group to deter- occurrence. Long-term provisions, for the main part, accumu- mine whether the value of goodwill has been impaired. Addi- late interest at a rate of 4.5 percent or 5.5 percent per annum. tional assessments are performed if there are grounds to consider impairment has taken place. To this end, the recoverable Financial liabilities amount of the cash-generating unit must be estimated. This Financial liabilities are recognized at amortized cost by applying corresponds to the higher of fair value less cost to sell and the effective interest method and are disclosed under financial value in use. Determining fair value less cost to sell involves liabilities recognized at amortized cost. making adjustments and estimates regarding the forecast and discounting of future cash flows. Although management is of Deferred taxes the opinion that the assumptions underlying calculation of the With respect to temporary differences between valuations for recoverable amount are suitable, unforeseeable changes could tax purposes and balance sheet purposes, for consolidation result in impairment, which may negatively impact the assets, transactions affecting income as well as for tax loss carry- liabilities, financial position and profit and loss of the Group. forwards, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized. The book value of goodwill amounted to EUR K 326,059 at the closing date. Refer to the section on intangible assets in these Deferred tax assets concerning tax loss carry-forwards have notes for detailed information on the calculation of value been recognized only to the extent to which reductions are impairments. likely to arise. There was no deferred tax recognized for loss carryforwards in the current year. Useful lives of tangible assets and other intangible assets Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rate valid or approved at At the end of each fiscal year, the Group assesses the estimat- the balance sheet date of the company likely to be affected by ed useful lives of tangible assets and other intangible assets. the deferral. Estimations did not need to be reviewed in 2008. 87 88 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Value of tangible assets and other intangible assets Employee benefits At each closing date, the Group must determine whether there Pensions and similar obligations are calculated in accordance are any grounds to assume that the book value of a tangible with actuarial valuations. These valuations are based on a asset or an item under other intangible assets has been im- number of factors including statistical values in order to antici- paired. In this case, the recoverable amount of the asset in pate future events. These factors include actuarial assump- question is estimated. The recoverable amount corresponds to tions such as the discount rate, expected return on plan asset, the higher of fair value less cost to sell and value in use. Value expected salary increases and mortality rates. These actuarial in use is determined based on the discounted future cash assumptions can deviate considerably from the actual obliga- flows of the relevant asset. Estimating discounted future cash tions as a result of changed market and economic conditions, flows involves making key assumptions, in particular regarding resulting in a change in the associated future outlay. future sales prices and volumes, costs and discount rates. Although management is of the opinion that the assessment of Legal risks relevant expected useful lives, of the general economic climate Certain Group companies are involved in legal disputes. The and market trends within the industries in which the Group outcome of these disputes could have a substantial impact on operates, and of discounted future cash flows are suitable, the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the a change to current assumptions or to current circumstances Group. Company management regularly analyses the current may render it necessary to review this analysis. This could information available about these cases and recognizes pro- result in additional value impairments or write-ups in the future visions to cover probable obligations. Assessments are per- should the trends identified by management turn around or if formed by internal and external lawyers. When reaching a the assumptions and estimates turn out to be incorrect. decision on the need to recognize provisions, company management takes sufficient account of the probability of an Taxes on income and earnings unfavorable outcome and takes due care to estimate the At each closing date, the Group determines whether the prob- amount of the obligation sufficiently reliably. ability of future tax benefits is sufficient to justify deferred tax assets. To this end, management must assess the tax benefits resulting from existing tax strategies and income to be taxed in the future, as well as take further positive and negative factors into consideration. The recognized deferred tax assets may be lower if the estimates regarding taxable income and the tax benefits realizable through available tax strategies are lowered, or should changes to current tax legislation restrict the timeframe or feasibility of future tax benefits. Refer to the section on taxes on income in these notes for more detailed information. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Explanatory comments on the income statement 1 The item wages and salaries includes redundancy payments to the following extent: Revenue in € K 2008 2007 Redundancy payments 1,091 935 With respect to the presentation and composition of sales by geographic regions and by business segments, please refer to the segment report. 2 The average number of employees is as follows: in € K Other income Management 2008 2007 44 44 293 294 in € K 2008 2007 Administration Foreign exchange gains 7,168 2,727 Sales 820 818 Service 650 630 Logistics 282 270 Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 601 403 Insurance reimbursements 215 370 Recovery of receivables written off 71 Other income 1,395 1,435 Other 177 162 Total 3,661 3,653 2008 2007 578 371 Realized exchange losses 8,243 2,268 Other expenses 2,630 220 11,451 2,859 75 Rental income on investment Property Production and technology 557 103 2,411 4,743 11,023 8,421 4 Total Other operating expenses in € K Losses on the disposal of 3 Personnel expenses property, plant and equipment The expenses for pensions include the expense for pension benefits without the interest portion of the additions to provisions for pensions which is recognized under financial results. Total Personnel expenses are composed as follows: Expenses from the reevaluation of a tract of land at Wacker Neuson Rhymney Ltd. amounting to EUR K 1,662 were realized in € K Wages and salaries Social security contributions Other personnel costs Expenses for pensions Total 2008 2007 150,812 130,869 production plant in Tradegar, surveyors were commissioned to 30,761 23,414 perform a property assessment. The findings resulted in a re- 7,595 9,138 evaluation. The company is assigned to the Europe segment. 2,293 4,351 191,461 167,772 for the current fiscal year. Following the decision to close the 89 90 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 5 Financial result Reconciliation of calculated tax to actual tax expense: in € K 2008 2007 Interest and similar income 7,213 5,618 Unrealized gains and losses - 1,956 505 2008 2007 55,681 78,245 16,403 29,960 0 - 4,660 - 905 - 388 870 1,063 Other 1,208 - 1,833 Total 17,576 24,142 EBT Tax at the applicable tax rate : Income on disposals of financial assets in € K 650 1,368 Interest and similar expenses - 8,215 - 8,151 Total - 2,308 - 660 29.46% (previous year: 38.29%) Change in tax rate (Germany) Variance in tax rates Tax effects of non-deductible expenses and tax-exempt income Interest expenses include expenses for interest resulting from finance lease contracts in the amount of EUR K 69 (previous year: EUR K 72). Interest income from finance leases in the amount of EUR K 1,424 (previous year: EUR K 640) is included in interest and similar income. The calculated taxes on income result by applying the Group’s unified tax rate of 29.46 percent (previous year: 38.29 percent) Profit/loss arising from changes in the fair value of derivative to profit before tax (EBT). financial instruments as part of cash flow hedging was recognized under equity during the fiscal year with no effect on We have based our tax assessment for the current year on a income. corporate income tax rate of 15 percent and a solidarity surcharge of 5.5 percent. Trade tax on income is no longer deductible for the assessment concerning corporate income tax 6 Taxes on income and trade tax. Trade tax is set at a uniform 3.5 percent. The expense for taxes on income is composed of as follows: in € K 2008 2007 Current tax expense 22,169 29,073 Deferred tax expense - 4,593 - 4,931 Total 17,576 24,142 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements In the previous year, the tax rate for the parent company was The tax losses that were not utilized and for which no deferred based on a rate of 16.19 percent for trade tax on income (rate tax entitlement was recognized in the balance sheet amount to of assessment: 386.36 percent), the corporate income tax rate EUR K 15,135 (previous year: EUR K 12,571). amounted to 25 percent and the solidarity surcharge 5.5 percent. The tax rate was calculated by taking into account the With respect to deferred tax assets, EUR K 311 (previous year: deductibility of trade tax on income for the assessment con- EUR K 241) are allocable to individual companies which in- cerning corporate income tax. curred losses in the current or prior reporting period. The reason for the capitalization lies in the improved earnings situation Actual netted income tax receivables on the closing date in the years following. amounted to EUR K 9,936 (previous year: EUR K 2,126). Deferred taxes from derivative financial instruments and Deferred tax assets and liabilities are allocated to the following marketable securities held for the purpose of trading (applies balance sheet items: to previous year) in the amount of EUR K 477 (previous year: EUR K 240) were recognized directly in equity. in € K 2008 2007 343 1,063 4,722 1,827 511 265 6,890 6,580 Other 480 809 Liabilities 297 359 Receivables 207 91 13,450 10,994 Deferred tax assets Provisions for pensions Property, plant and equipment Loss carry-forwards Inventories Total 7 Earnings per share 2007 37,389 54,126 70,140 49,249 0.53 1.10 0.53 1.10 Earnings of the current period attributable to shareholders in € K Weighted average number of shares outstanding during current period in thousand shares Undiluted earnings per share in € Diluted earnings per share Deferred tax liabilities in € Other intangible assets 2008 - 23,690 - 24,797 Property, plant and equipment - 8,311 - 7,762 Inventories - 1,315 - 2,446 According to IAS 33, the earnings per share are the result of Provisions for pensions 920 1,144 the division of earnings for the current period attributable to Other 407 137 Total - 31,989 - 33,724 Deferred tax recognized in the consolidated balance sheet arises from the deferred tax as booked by the individual companies. Deferred tax assets and liabilities were netted at the level of the individual company as appropriate. This netting is accounted for in the above table by the positive amounts under the heading deferred tax liabilities. the shareholders of the company by the weighted average number of shares outstanding. 91 92 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Explanatory comments on the balance sheet 8 Property, plant and equipment Payments Machinery in € K Office on account/ Land and and and other Assets under buildings equipment equipment construction Total 152,209 155,734 54,954 31,289 394,186 Acquisition costs Balance at January 1, 2008 Currency translation differences - 1,132 2,531 - 797 435 1,037 Additions 16,276 42,600 10,044 21,720 90,640 Retirements - 2,212 - 15,210 - 4,004 - 27 - 21,453 Transfers 31,022 2,680 811 - 39,604 - 5,091 196,163 188,335 61,008 13,813 459,319 48,712 84,995 38,610 0 172,317 Balance at December 31, 2008 Accumulated depreciation Balance at January 1, 2008 Currency translation differences - 421 1,626 - 649 0 556 Additions 6,380 22,406 5,720 0 34,506 Retirements - 1,739 - 11,741 - 3,393 0 - 16,873 Transfers - 3,902 - 158 - 61 0 - 4,121 Balance at December 31, 2008 49,030 97,128 40,227 0 186,385 Balance at December 31, 2007 103,497 70,739 16,344 31,289 221,869 Balance at December 31, 2008 147,133 91,207 20,781 13,813 272,934 Machinery Office on account/ Payments in € K Land and and and other Assets under buildings equipment equipment construction Total Acquisition costs Balance at January 1, 2007 116,380 147,476 52,844 9,453 326,153 Currency translation differences - 2,474 - 3,770 - 1,128 - 84 - 7,456 Additions from change in consolidation structure 25,521 541 3,181 4,812 34,055 4,820 31,982 6,182 31,040 74,024 Retirements - 116 - 25,314 - 7,011 - 140 - 32,581 Transfers 8,078 4,819 886 - 13,792 -9 152,209 155,734 54,954 31,289 394,186 Additions Balance at December 31, 2007 Accumulated depreciation Balance at January 1, 2007 46,506 90,520 41,601 0 178,627 Currency translation differences - 861 - 2,802 - 889 0 - 4,552 Additions 3,167 18,865 4,498 0 26,530 Retirements - 100 - 21,588 - 6,600 0 - 28,288 0 0 0 0 0 48,712 84,995 38,610 0 172,317 Balance at December 31, 2006 69,874 56,956 11,243 9,453 147,526 Balance at December 31, 2007 103,497 70,739 16,344 31,289 221,869 Transfers Balance at December 31, 2007 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Amounts recognized for land and buildings as well as office The property in South Africa is currently valued at EUR K 273. and other equipment include the book values of finance leas- This amount was calculated based on official market prices. ing contracts. Machinery and equipment includes rental The fair value of the land in Gutmadingen was assessed by an equipment. independent surveyor on September 30, 2007 using the German income approach. The site is valued at EUR 2.1 million. An affiliate received EUR K 539 in the form of an economic de- The building has a useful life of 17 years and is amortized using velopment grant in conjunction with the acquisition of a tract of the straight-line method. The fair value of the land in Überlin- land. On receipt of the payment, the grant was offset against gen was assessed by an independent surveyor on September the purchase price of the tangible asset. 30, 2007, using the German comparative approach (for the value of the land) and the German income approach. The total fair value amounts to EUR K 13,195. The building has a useful 9 Investment properties life of 50 years and is amortized using the straight-line method. The table below shows the development of the investment The profit derived from investment property is shown in the properties during the years 2007 and 2008: table below: in € K 2008 2007 2,147 38 -8 -3 consolidation structure 0 2,112 Additions 0 0 Retirements 0 0 4,902 0 7,041 2,147 Acquisition costs Balance at January 1 Rental income Currency translation differences in € K Depreciation and amortization Other expenses Total 2008 2007 557 103 - 170 - 42 -3 - 134 384 - 73 Additions from change in Transfers Balance at December 31 10 Intangible assets a) Goodwill The goodwill results from the acquisition of Weidemann GmbH in fiscal 2005 and Ground Heaters, Inc. in fiscal 2006 plus the Accumulated depreciation Balance at January 1 Additions Retirements Transfers Balance at December 31 goodwill resulting from the merger with the Neuson Kramer 42 0 170 42 0 0 4,121 0 4,333 42 Group in fiscal 2007. Goodwill developed as follows: Book value after in € K As at Jan. 1, 2008 acquisition 325,676 Net assets due to minority interests Book value on January 1 2,105 38 Book value on December 31 2,708 2,105 7 Foreign currency fluctuations Goodwill as at Dec. 31, 2008 376 326,059 In April 2006, Wacker Neuson (Pty) Ltd. rented an undeveloped In accordance with the regulations as set forth in IFRS 3/ tract of its land in Florida, South Africa, to a third party. A five- IAS 36, goodwill was not subject to scheduled amortization. year contract with an option to extend was concluded. An The goodwill recognized on the Weidemann GmbH balance additional tract of developed land in Gutmadingen is now also sheet, which was already fully amortized, was transferred. The disclosed as investment property as a result of the 2007 goodwill originally recognized in the balance sheet of the sub- merger with the Neuson Kramer Group. This land is rented to a group of the Neuson Kramer Group was incorporated in the third party. Kramer-Werke GmbH has pulled out of its previous goodwill disclosed by the Neuson Kramer Group as part of the location in Überlingen to move to its new plant in Pfullendorf. initial consolidation process. The old premises was put up for rent as of January 1, 2009. 93 94 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 b) Other intangible assets in € K Other Internally Licenses and intangible produced intan- Payments on similar rights assets gible assets account Total 16,568 101,293 3,883 196 121,940 221 239 2 9 471 Acquisition costs Balance at January 1, 2008 Currency translation differences Additions from acquisitions 0 0 0 0 0 Additions 2,620 0 1,075 2,602 6,297 Retirements - 714 0 0 -2 - 716 240 0 136 - 187 189 18,935 101,532 5,096 2,618 128,181 10,487 10,894 339 0 21,720 208 70 0 0 278 Additions 1,639 5,351 1,288 0 8,278 Retirements - 533 0 0 0 - 533 Transfers Balance at December 31, 2008 Accumulated amortization Balance at January 1, 2008 Currency translation differences Transfers 0 0 0 0 0 11,801 16,315 1,627 0 29,743 Book value on December 31, 2007 6,081 90,399 3,544 196 100,220 Book value on December 31, 2008 7,134 85,217 3,469 2,618 98,438 Other Internally Licenses and intangible produced intan- Payments on similar rights assets gible assets account 12,221 30,689 0 177 43,087 - 588 - 530 0 - 17 - 1,135 Balance at December 31, 2008 in € K Total Acquisition costs Balance at January 1, 2007 Currency translation differences Additions from acquisitions 786 71,134 3,458 0 75,378 Additions 4,233 0 425 160 4,818 Retirements - 193 0 0 - 24 - 217 Transfers Balance at December 31, 2007 109 0 0 - 100 9 16,568 101,293 3,883 196 121,940 Accumulated amortization Balance at January 1, 2007 9,852 1,088 0 0 10,940 Currency translation differences - 504 - 83 0 0 - 587 Additions 1,281 9,889 339 0 11,509 Retirements - 142 0 0 0 - 142 Transfers 0 0 0 0 0 10,487 10,894 339 0 21,720 Book value on December 31, 2006 2,369 29,601 0 177 32,147 Book value on December 31, 2007 6,081 90,399 3,544 196 100,220 Balance at December 31, 2007 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements The down-payments effected relate primarily to development Following the merger with the Neuson Kramer Group, costs for projects not yet completed at the closing date. EUR K 42,838 was recognized for the brand name. This is also considered to have an indefinite useful life due to the company’s Other intangible assets have useful lives ranging from three to strong market position. Wacker Neuson SE (formerly: Wacker twenty years. They are amortized on a scheduled straight-line Construction Equipment AG) does not own the “Neuson” logo. basis over the respective useful lives. This is owned by the PIN Private Trust (PIN Privatstiftung), which is part of the group founded by Chairman of the Super- Furthermore, other intangible assets have a value of EUR K visory Board Hans Neunteufel. Subject to certain assumptions, 22,000 for the brand name “Weidemann” resulting from the however, the company has an exclusive, irrevocable and un- acquisition of Weidemann GmbH in 2005. Due to the strong limited license to use this brand in conjunction with the name market position of Weidemann GmbH, the brand name and “Wacker”. In addition to the brand, technology in the amount of trademark are considered to have an indefinite useful life. EUR K 16,995 is also disclosed as a significant intangible asset. The expected useful lives and residual book values of other intangible assets are as follows: Book value on Book value on Dec. 31, 2008 in € K Dec. 31, 2007 in € K Useful life – 1,309 – Brand 64,838 64,838 indefinite Technology 16,995 20,648 ≤ 5 years 3,384 3,604 9 years 85,217 90,399 in € K Order volume Customer base Total ment costs. c) Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets with indefinite useful lives Depreciation and amortization The goodwill and indefinite-lived Weidemann and Neuson Depreciation and amortization amounts are included in the brands obtained through the acquisition of Weidemann and the pertinent positions reported on the income statement: cost of merger with Neuson were allocated for impairment testing to sales, sales and service expenses, research & development the following cash-generating units within the Americas or expenses as well as general administrative expenses. European segments, which are obliged to disclose reporting Intangible assets created internally refer to capitalized develop- information: Wacker Neuson Corporation (subgroup/USA) Weidemann GmbH (Germany) Wacker Neuson Beteiligungs GmbH (formerly: Neuson Kramer Baumaschinen AG) (subgroup/Austria) 95 96 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Free cash flow – Free cash flow is determined using a detailed The pro-rata book values break down as follows: planning phase from 2009 to 2018. Growth rates are determined for the first three budget years (up to 2011) based on market in € K 2008 2007 24,592 24,592 Book value of goodwill 22,000 22,000 7,479 7,103 – – med in the perpetual annuity assessment by the year 2012. Beteiligungs GmbH 293,988 293,981 42,838 42,838 326,059 325,676 64,838 64,838 Book value of the indefinite-lived brand Total Book value of goodwill The detailed planning phase from 2012 to 2018 was therefore derived from past company figures. This was based on assumed sales growth of 3.75 percent per annum from 2012 to 2018. Discount rates – Discount rates reflect management’s Book value of the indefinitelived brand with past values. In other words, management does not yet expect the company to achieve the balanced position as assu- Wacker Neuson Book value of goodwill tion does not reduce the share capital. After 2011, management anticipates results and growth rates that more strongly align Book value of the indefinite-lived brand payments, tax shields and increases and reductions in borrowing capital. Care is taken to ensure that the cash flow distribu- Wacker Neuson Corporation Book value of goodwill that the entire distributable cash flow is paid out each fiscal year. Distributable cash flow refers to free cash flow after interest Book value of the indefinite-lived brand conditions. Adjustments were made based on distribution plans. When performing the goodwill impairment test, it is assumed Weidemann GmbH assessment of the risks associated with cash-generating units. It includes a risk-free and risk-weighted rate. The weighted average cost of capital (WACC) after tax at a uniform rate of 8.10 percent was applied. Last year, WACC before tax was applied on the basis of the value in use. The tax rate in The value of goodwill and indefinite-lived brands is verified the previous year was 12.67 percent for Wacker Neuson during the annual impairment test. For this purpose, the book Beteiligungs GmbH, 12.8 percent for Weidemann GmbH and value is compared with the fair value less cost to sell (value in 15.42 percent for Wacker Neuson Corporation. use previous year). The fair value less cost to sell is determined using the discounted cash flow method. Value is impaired if fair Price increases of raw materials – Past price fluctuations are value less cost to sell is lower than the book value. Impairment used as indicators for estimating future price developments. losses did not need to be written down in fiscal 2008. Projecting growth rates – Management and affiliates estiThe calculation of fair value less cost to sell is based on mate growth rates based on local market dynamics. No growth assumptions, which in turn are dependent on the following rate has been projected for perpetual annuity. However, infla- uncertain estimates: tion has been projected at 2 percent. Free cash flow Discount rates Price increases for raw materials and supplies Underlying growth rates for cash-flow predictions outside of the budget period Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 11 Other investments and other non-current assets Of the reported inventories, EUR K 35,265 (previous year: EUR K 11,114) are recognized at net realizable value. Write- In total, participating interests in the amount of EUR K 3,420 downs of inventories recognized as an expense amount to (book value) are held. The companies in question are not con- EUR K 6,336 in the reporting period (previous year: solidated. For further details, please see the information on the EUR K 1,863). consolidation structure in the general information on accounting standards. Write-ups of inventories recognized as an expense amount to EUR K 0 in the reporting period (previous year: EUR K 0). Other non-current assets are composed of the following components: Similar to 2007, no inventories were pledged as collateral for liabilities during the period under review. in € K Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 2007 Loans 139 83 2,870 1,656 0 832 25,780 28,293 4,210 3,659 32,999 34,523 Investment securities Interest rate swap Long-term trade receivables Other long-term assets Total 13 Trade receivables Trade receivables have the following components: in € K Dec. 31, 2007 125,820 166,201 Trade receivables at nominal value The long-term trade receivables mainly result from hire- Less allowance for doubtful purchase agreements and finance leases. accounts Total 12 Dec. 31, 2008 - 6,632 - 4,990 119,188 161,211 Inventories As of December 31, 2008, trade receivables (at nominal value) Inventories are composed of the following components: in € K Raw materials and supplies Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 2007 49,525 49,937 8,430 11,212 Finished goods 159,075 113,981 Total 217,030 175,130 Work in progress were broken down as follows: in € K Trade receivables Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 2007 125,820 166,201 116,201 124,296 3,978 22,502 3,420 13,211 2,221 6,192 Nominal value of trade receivables written down or not due Overdue at nominal value but not written down < 30 days Overdue at nominal value but not An expense of EUR K 551,492 (previous year: EUR K 435,274) written down 30 – 90 days was recorded as acquisition and manufacturing costs for Overdue at nominal value but not inventories. written down > 90 days 97 98 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Allowance for doubtful accounts developed as follows: The bearer shares in funds and promissory notes in the amount of EUR K 77,272 that were attributable to the company in fiscal 2007, jointly defined as an investment portfolio and in € K 2008 recognized “at fair value through profit or loss” in accordance Balance at January 1, 2008 4,990 with IAS 39, were sold in the period under review. Exchange rate differences - 140 Additions 3,189 Amortization/depreciation - 847 Reversals - 565 Discounts 5 Balance at December 31, 2008 In fiscal 2007, bonds in the amount of EUR K 54 were attributable to the Austrian affiliate Wacker Neuson GmbH, Vienna. Classified as “available for sale” in accordance with IAS 39 and valued at market price, these bonds were also sold in the period under review. 6,632 Refer to section 26 outlining additional information on financial instruments in these notes for information regarding net profits Trade receivables are derived from trading with a large number and losses from these financial instruments. of companies from different industries and regions. Regular credit checks verify the financial stability of receivables. Allowances for doubtful accounts are made where necessary. 15 Other current assets The current value is a reasonable approximation of the book value since all receivables are due within less than one year. in € K Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 2007 Value-added tax 2,919 4,092 In fiscal 2007, receivables from finance leases in the amount of Advance payments 3,981 4,594 EUR K 1,734 were disclosed under other current assets. These Travel advances 156 193 2,150 0 2,140 955 595 0 receivables stemmed directly from an affiliate’s original transaction and are disclosed under trade receivables for fiscal 2008. The previous year’s value has been adjusted accordingly. Derivatives Receivables from associated companies Receivables from employees 14 Marketable securities Other 2,548 2,335 Total 14,489 12,169 Marketable securities comprise bearer shares in funds, promissory notes and bonds. In fiscal 2008, the Group holds marketable securities totaling EUR K 1,894 (previous year: Receivables from associated companies include receivables EUR K 88,656). from non-consolidated interests (see general information on accounting standards/consolidation structure) and receivables In the period under review, all marketable securities are from shareholders. attributable to Wacker Neuson Linz GmbH in the form of a security floater in the amount of EUR K 1,894 (previous year: The asset values of the pension liability insurance were offset EUR K 11,330). As these shares are acquired with the expec- against provisions. The fair value is a reasonable approxima- tation that they will be quickly resold, they are recognized at tion of the book value since all items have a maturity of less fair value in the category “held for trading” in accordance with than one year. IAS 39. The book value shown represents the Group’s maximum default risk. Receivables from finance leases in the amount of EUR K 1,734 were disclosed in fiscal 2007. These receivables accrue to an affiliate directly from an original transaction and were reclassified as trade receivables in the period under review (refer to the section on trade receivables in these notes). Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 16 Cash and cash equivalents In addition to share capital, the components of equity are as follows: in € K Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 2007 179 207 61,855 74,008 Petty cash Bank balances Cash deposits Total 3,566 2,601 65,600 76,816 in € K Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 2007 618,397 618,450 1,033 581 Exchange rate differences - 36,914 - 32,845 Total 582,516 586,186 Capital reserves Other neutral assets Cash on hand and bank balances in foreign currencies are converted at the spot rates. Differences in valuation between The capital reserves primarily result from share premiums acquisition cost and current value were posted under other in- in connection with the IPO and the merger with Wacker vestment income or under investment expense. Neuson Beteiligungs GmbH (formerly Neuson Kramer Baumaschinen AG). Interest accrued at variable rates on the daily cash bank balances. Depending on the company’s liquidity requirements, At the AGM of April 13, 2007 the Executive Board was vested short-term, term accounts running for periods ranging from with the right – subject to the consent of the Supervisory one day to three months were set up. The term money yielded Board – to increase the share capital of the company on or be- interest at the prevailing rates. fore April 12, 2012 by a total of up to EUR 1,000,000 in whole or in part, on one or more occasions, by issuing new registered shares against contributions in cash (authorized capital I). 17 Equity Shareholders’ statutory subscription rights are excluded: Equity amounting to EUR K 70,140 is divided into 70,140,000 individual no-par-value nominal shares, each representing If employees of the company and its affiliates and executive EUR 1.00 of the share capital, and was fully paid-in at the bodies of affiliates (to the extent that these are not simulta- closing date of the Consolidated Financial Statements. neously members of the company’s Executive Board) are offered shares at an issue price that is 15 percent lower than The company did not hold any treasury shares on the closing the issue price; date. with respect to fractional amounts; if the issue price of the new shares is not significantly below The following shareholders held a direct interest exceeding the company’s market price and the new shares issued to 5 percent of the company stock in 2008 or 2007: the exclusion of subscription rights do not exceed a total of 10 percent of the share capital. 2008 2007 A further resolution was also passed at the AGM on April 13, 2007, vesting the Executive Board with the right – subject to in % in € K in % in € K GmbH & Co. KG 29.1 20,391 29.1 20,391 capital of the company on or before April 12, 2012 by a total Neuson Ecotec GmbH 29.0 20,349 29.0 20,349 of up to EUR 24,500,000 in whole or in part, on one or more schaft mbH & Co. KG 5.3 3,710 5.3 3,710 tions in kind (authorized capital II). The authorized capital II VGC Invest GmbH 5.1 3,546 – – option was partially utilized to conclude the merger Wacker 68.5 47,996 63.4 44,450 Neuson Beteiligungs GmbH (formerly Neuson Kramer Bau- the consent of the Supervisory Board – to increase the share Wacker-Werke occasions, by issuing new registered shares against contribu- Wacker Familiengesell- Total maschinen AG). As a result, the Supervisory Board amended the corresponding entry under Article 3, Paragraph 4 of the Articles of Incorporation, following resolutions passed on 99 100 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 September 23, 2007 and October 18, 2007 to the effect that held by third parties who do not satisfy the criteria defining authorized capital II now amounts to EUR 5,360,000. The those individuals to whom transfers can be freely made, the authorized capital in the wording valid until April 13, 2007 remaining pool members have the right to also sell their was annulled. shares. If a pool member is excluded from the pool for good reason, the other pool members have a right to acquire the The statutory subscription rights of shareholders are excluded shares or a preferential purchase right. This also applies if if companies, interests or company divisions are to be contri- a pool member ceases to qualify as a pool member. buted in exchange for shares in the company. Restrictions regarding voting rights or the transfer of shares: Information on the partnership agreement of Wacker Familiengesellschaft mbH & Co. KG Part of the Wacker family shareholders hold part of their shares Information on the pool agreement via Wacker Familiengesellschaft mbH & Co. KG, which in turn There is a pool agreement between some shareholders and also holds shares via Wacker-Werke GmbH & Co. KG. Eco- companies of the Wacker family on the one hand and compa- nomic ownership of the shares is attributed to the Wacker nies shareholders of Neuson on the other. Prior to each AGM family shareholders. of the company, the pool members decide how to exercise voting and petition rights in the meeting. Each pool member The pool agreement has precedence over the regulations of undertakes to exercise their voting and petition rights in the the partnership agreement as long as Wacker Familiengesell- AGM in line with the pool’s decisions, or to have these rights schaft mbH & Co. KG is party to the above pool agreement. exercised in this manner. If the pool does not reach a deci- A partners’ meeting is held prior to every company AGM. In sion with regard to a resolution on the allocation of annual this meeting, the Wacker family shareholders define how they profits, adoption of the annual financial statements by the will vote and exercise their petitioning rights. However, votes AGM, approval of Executive and Supervisory Board mem- in the AGM are to be cast in line with the pool’s decisions. Two bers’ actions, appointment of the auditor, upholding minority of the Wacker family shareholders have the right to propose interests and compulsory changes to the Articles of Incorpo- one member of the Supervisory Board each to the sharehold- ration as a result of changes to legislation or jurisdiction, the ers, this member is then to be elected by the remainder. pool members have the right to freely exercise their voting rights. In all other cases, the pool members must vote to Only the acquisition and preferential purchase rights in the reject the proposal. The Neuson shareholders appoint two pool agreement apply to family members who are party to the members to the Supervisory Board, and the Wacker share- pool agreement. In the case of a sale by a family member who holders appoint two further members to the Supervisory is not a pool member, acquisition and preferential purchase Board. rights apply if shares are sold to third parties who do not fulfill the criteria defining those individuals to whom shares can be Shares can be transferred without restriction to spouses, freely transferred set forth in the abovementioned pool agree- registered partners, pool members’ children, children adopted ment. If a family shareholder exits the company as a result of when they were minors by pool members, siblings, foun- a termination, the remaining pool members have a preferential dations set up by pool members that are either charitable purchase right to buy the shares for a period of two years from foundations or in which the beneficiaries and the controlling the date this shareholder exits the company. In addition, the members of the management board satisfy the aforemen- partners’ meeting can resolve that the exiting family sharehol- tioned criteria, and companies where the direct or indirect der does not receive compensation in cash but in the form of shareholders also satisfy the aforementioned criteria. If the shares to which they are financially entitled. After May 14, shares are transferred to any such persons, they must join 2012, each exiting family member can demand to receive their the pool agreement. If shares are transferred to third parties, compensation in the form of the shares to which they are finan- either for a fee or free of charge, the other pool members cially entitled. have the right to acquire these shares. If the shares are to be sold to third parties off the stock exchange, all of the other pool members have a preferential purchase right. If a pool member intends to transfer shares in such a way that more than 50 percent of voting rights in the company would be Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Pool agreement between Lehner and Neuson shareholders 18 The Lehner shareholders have issued a Neuson shareholder Provisions for pensions and similar obligations Composition: with power of attorney with regard to the shares they acquired prior to the merger and during the merger between the company and Wacker Neuson Beteiligungs GmbH (formerly in € K Neuson Kramer Baumaschinen AG). The Neuson shareholder Provisions for pension is independently responsible for exercising these voting rights, obligations is not bound by any instructions, and will always exercise them Provisions for other in the same way as for the shares that he himself holds. These obligations to employees shares are thus subject to the restrictions of the aforemen- Total Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 2007 22,138 21,888 2,048 1,774 24,186 23,662 tioned pool agreement. The Neuson shareholder has a preferential purchase right to Within the company there are different types of retirement ben- buy these shares in the event of a transfer to entities other than efit schemes worldwide for old age and surviving dependants’ the Neuson shareholder or to Lehner shareholders. pensions. Most of the schemes provide for the payment of fixed lump-sum amounts. The others are defined retirement plans Shares that part of the Executive Board members receive as part of their remuneration with a pension paid from retirement until death. The amounts to be paid are based on the respective employee’s level (both with Three of the members of the Executive Board have received respect to salary as well as hierarchy) as well as her/his years of shares in the company as part of their remuneration. The com- service to the company. pany has an unrestricted, preferential purchase or acquisition right over some of these shares in the event that they are The parent company has entered into a legally binding obliga- transferred. tion to provide post-employment benefits to those employees who entered company service before 1985 according to the Development of treasury shares: benefits scheme last amended on January 15, 1985. In accordance with the benefits scheme, the companies provide a lumpsum payment to eligible employees after completing employment in € K Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 2007 Balance at January 1 0 - 36,691 Purchase of treasury shares 0 0 Sale of treasury shares 0 36,691 Balance at December 31 0 0 with the company: Treasury shares upon reaching the age of 65 upon the receipt of early retirement benefits from the national pension scheme upon the occurrence of a permanent occupational disability after having attained the age of 60 and after the death of the employee to the surviving spouse. Furthermore, pension commitments due to enter into effect as Retained earnings developed as follows: of retirement age also exist vis-à-vis Executive Board members as well as former executive and shareholders. in € K Balance at January 1 Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 2007 254,113 224,260 - 35,070 - 24,273 fiscal year Profit for the period 37,389 54,126 based on years of service with the company and partly for Balance at at December 31 256,432 254,113 pension payments from retirement until death based on the For the remaining domestic and foreign companies, the schemes partly provide for a lump-sum payment which is Dividend for the respective based on the salary at retirement age multiplied by a factor employee’s earnings to those who fulfill the time-of-service requirements, which differ from country to country. Dividends paid in 2008 amounted to EUR K 35,070 (EUR 0.50 per share) (previous year: EUR K 24,273, EUR 0.62 per share). 101 102 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Foreign affiliates also have defined contribution plans. In such Pension obligations are distributed across schemes that are cases, the respective company makes contributions to an not financed through funds as well as schemes that are entirely insurance scheme either because of legal requirements or or partially financed through funds as follows: contracted agreements. There is no further obligation for the company beyond these payments. The periodic contributions are recognized as an expense under profit before interest and in € K tax (EBIT) in the respective year. Provisions for pension plans, not funded Provisions for the defined benefit plans are calculated using Provisions for pension plans, the Projected Unit Credit Method. Valuation is based on the fully or partly funded legal, economic and tax factors in the respective countries. Total 2008 2007 17,554 19,061 8,397 8,545 25,951 27,606 The expected service cost and accrued interest as well as anticipated returns from the pension assets are taken into account when calculating the costs of pensions for perfor- The changes in the present value of pension obligations and of mance-oriented pension schemes. Actuarial gains and losses plan assets are as follows: are recognized according to the 10 percent corridor method. The actuarial valuation of the present values of pension obli- in € K gations as of the balance sheet date is based on the following Balance at January 1 parameters and assumptions. These parameters are also Changes in consolidation applied in calculating the pension expenditures for the following structure year. Consequently the expense calculations are based on the Current service costs following premises: Interest expense Actuarial gains/losses in 2008 2007 % 6.50 5.50 expected % 2.00 1.75 % 4.00 4.00 years 60 60 14,137 0 16,489 1,193 852 1,457 716 - 2,915 - 1,784 - 189 - 709 -9 - 1,906 25,951 27,606 2008 2007 3,496 2,698 Expected return on plan assets 148 119 Actuarial gains/losses - 81 122 Changes in exchange rate -9 - 26 Employer’s contributions 608 601 Curtailments and settlements - 24 - 18 4,138 3,496 Present value of obligations at December 31 Future pension increases 27,606 211 Curtailments and settlements company 2007 - 1,592 Paid benefits Benefit plans for parent Discount rate Changes in exchange rates 2008 Expected return on plan assets Retirement age in € K Changes in fair value of plan assets Balance at January 1 Other benefit plans1 Discount rate % 6.43 5.47 Future pension increases expected % 3.08 2.30 Expected return on plan assets Retirement age 1 % 3.01 3.01 years 61 64 Weighted average of the individual benefi t schemes Plan assets at December 31 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in € K Obligation net of plan assets 2008 2007 The valuation date for the current value of fund assets and the 21,813 24,110 present value of obligations is December 31 for each year. The 2,244 - 585 pension obligations is the present value of obligations as of 129 137 January 1. The base value for the anticipated return on fund base value for the calculation of unaccrued interest concerning Actuarial gains/losses not yet recognized Plan surplus assets is the current value as of January 1; transfers during the Accruals for pensions at December 31 24,186 23,662 year are accounted for on a pro rata basis. The contributions expected to be made to German fund assets The losses above and beyond the 10 percent corridor are in 2009 amount to EUR 0.6 million. amortized over the average remaining years until retirement – some 17 years in Germany’s case. Amortization in 2007 and The following overview shows the projected pension pay-outs 2008 is part of total pension expense. for the coming five years: Plan assets primarily comprise pension liability insurance in € K where future payments are pledged in favor of the entitled Due in 2009 1,532 Due in 2010 1,582 Due in 2011 1,645 Due in 2012 1,789 Due in 2013 1,852 recipient. Pension expenses are as follows: in € K 2008 2007 Current service costs 1,193 852 Interest expense 1,457 716 Expected return on plan assets - 147 - 119 12 96 - 28 118 Actuarial gains/losses Result of curtailments and settlements 2,487 1,663 570 789 3,057 2,452 Pension expense from defined contribution plans Total pension expense Interest expense ensuing from pension obligations is recognized in the financial result. The remaining pension expense is part of personnel costs shown in the appropriate functional line of the income statement. the 2007 and 2008 fiscal years: in € K Actual return on plan assets Pension expense from defined benefit plans The following actual return on plan assets was recognized for 2008 2007 61 224 103 104 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Only the Wacker Neuson Corporation (USA) plan requires the payment of healthcare contributions. The following table shows the effects of a one percentage point increase or reduction in healthcare costs: 2008 in € K 2007 Additions Reversals Additions Reversals 16 - 13 23 - 19 39 - 33 30 - 25 Effect on service cost and interest expense Effect on the present value of pension obligations The following information applies to the period 2004 through 2008: in € K 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 25,951 27,606 14,137 15,333 12,909 4,138 3,496 2,698 3,307 2,614 21,813 24,110 11,439 12,026 10,295 129 80 24 13 -7 83 110 - 184 0 0 Present value of performance-oriented obligations Fair value of the plan assets Plan surplus/deficit Experience adjustments Of which: plan liabilities Of which: plan assets Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 19 Other provisions The provisions are as follows: Balance Balance Jan. 1, 2008 Currency Utilization Additions Reversals Dec. 31, 2008 Warranties 5,274 - 143 1,327 3,482 372 6,914 Obligations towards employees 5,524 - 57 2,389 3,056 185 5,949 668 -6 682 420 39 361 in € K Provisions Professional fees Litigation costs Other provisions Total 508 7 12 101 215 389 2,888 - 19 1,659 1,752 361 2,601 14,862 - 218 6,069 8,811 1,172 16,214 Changes in consolidation Balance structure/ Jan. 1, 2007 Currency Utilization Additions Reversals Dec. 31, 2007 Warranties 3,524 1,604 2,452 2,620 22 5,274 Obligations towards employees in € K Balance Provisions 5,871 444 2,553 1,842 80 5,524 Professional fees 486 -1 441 668 44 668 Litigation costs 288 87 25 161 3 508 Other provisions Total 1,888 246 742 1,562 66 2,888 12,057 2,380 6,213 6,853 215 14,862 The due dates of the above provisions are distributed as follows. in € K Short-term (< 1 year) Long-term (> 1 year) Balance Dec. 31, 2008 Warranties 5,538 1,376 6,914 Obligations towards employees 2,621 3,328 5,949 Provisions Professional fees 361 0 361 Litigation costs 166 223 389 Other provisions Total 2,426 175 2,601 11,112 5,102 16,214 105 106 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 in € K Short-term (< 1 year) Long-term (> 1 year) Balance Dec. 31, 2007 Warranties 3,896 1,378 5,274 Obligations towards employees 2,928 2,596 5,524 668 0 668 Provisions Professional fees Litigation costs 212 296 508 Other provisions 1,620 1,268 2,888 Total 9,324 5,538 14,862 The increase in discount amounts for long-term provisions from Obligations towards employees includes provisions for em- December 31, 2007 through December 31, 2008 amounts to ployees nearing pension age who are working part-time and EUR K 10 (2007: EUR K 34) for obligations towards employees for whom claims for reimbursement against the German tax based on the respectively valid assessment basis. office amount to EUR K 186 in 2008 and EUR K 230 in 2007. 20 Financial liabilities Financial liabilities comprise the amounts recognized under the balance sheet items non-current liabilities (EUR K 38,845); short-term borrowings from banks (EUR K 81,742); and current portion of long-term borrowings (EUR K 5,876): in € K Dec. 31, 2008 Up to 1 year 1 to 5 years Over 5 years Loans 105,967 87,385 14,698 3,884 Bonds 19,138 0 19,138 0 Liabilities from finance leases 717 142 375 200 Other long-term liabilities 641 91 550 0 Total 126,463 87,618 34,761 4,084 in € K Dec. 31, 2007 Up to 1 year 1 to 5 years Over 5 years Loans 101,824 77,731 24,093 0 Bonds 18,826 0 18,826 0 Liabilities from finance leases 821 163 338 320 Other long-term liabilities 924 282 642 0 122,395 78,176 43,899 320 Total Borrowings from banks Borrowings from banks mainly comprise the following items: Current account lines in USD: EUR K 17,306 (previous year: EUR K 0), interest rate 1-month US Libor plus 1.5 percent, Group cash pool: EUR K 28,261 (previous year: EUR K 38,024) due in less than 1 year, credit line USD K 80,000. with variable interest rates that are continuously adjusted to Loans in Brazilian reals: EUR K 3,128 (previous year: reflect market interest rates. EUR K 3,649), interest rate 20.5 – 21.8 percent, due in less GBP loan: EUR K 10,000 (previous year: EUR K 0), interest than 1 year. rate 4.15 percent, due in less than 1 year, credit line EUR K 15,000. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Export incentive credit line (KRR credit line): EUR K 10,000 Bonds (previous year: EUR K 10,000), interest rate 5.2 percent, Wacker Neuson Linz GmbH (legal successor to Neuson extended automatically every year unless terminated on Finance GmbH) has issued two bonds amounting to a total March 31. This credit is used exclusively to finance receiv- nominal value of EUR 20 million (book value: EUR K 19,138). ables from export trade. Amounts accruing to the bank under These are listed on the multilateral trading platform Third this loan agreement are secured by a global debt assign- Market of the Vienna Stock Exchange (Multilateral Trading ment provision and a bill of surety. System, MTF). A loan contract to finance the purchase of Weidemann GmbH: EUR K 18,600 (previous year: EUR K 24,000), principal repay- Bond ments twice yearly at EUR K 2,700, interest rate optional 1-, One bond has been arranged by an Austrian bank. It has a 3-, 6- or 12-month Euribor plus 0.65 percent, expiring June total nominal value of EUR 10 million and an original term of 30, 2012. The loan contract contains a clause under which five years. The maturity date of this bond is September 8, the company is bound to pledge their shares held in Weide- 2010. The effective annual gross interest rate amounts to mann GmbH to the bank as security should circumstances 3.41 percent. arise or become public that would justify the issuing of a higher risk assessment by the bank. Bundled bond Long-term loan: EUR K 5,257, fixed interest rate 6 percent, The bundled bond issued by Wacker Neuson Linz GmbH to- due in less than 1 year. gether with other issuers has a total nominal value of EUR 30 million, of which EUR 10 million is allocable to Wacker Neuson The company also has the following credit lines at two German Linz GmbH. The maturity date of this bond is September 30, banks that have not been drawn: EUR 10 million, on which sum 2012. The effective annual gross interest rate amounts to interest payments are due with Euribor plus 0.5 percent (opened 3.76 percent. in 2008), as well as EUR 20 million, on which sum interest payments are due with 3-month Euribor plus 0.5 percent. During the first half of every year, another bank extends an additional credit 21 Trade payables line of EUR 50 million. As of December 31, 2008, trade payables (at book value) were The book values of borrowings from banks with variable and broken down as follows: fixed interest rates were reported in the following currencies (equivalent in euros): in € K in € K 2008 2007 Trade payables 32,290 63,084 Book value due < 30 days 2008 2007 24,254 42,689 Euro 67,681 76,301 Book value due 30–90 days 6,970 16,160 US-$ 19,303 12,215 Book value due > 90 days 1,066 4,235 CHF 0 3,967 PLN 4,327 0 JPY 82 2,152 GBP 10,000 0 AUD 0 532 HKD 0 1,431 BRL 3,128 3,649 Diverse 1,446 1,577 105,967 101,824 Total The fair values of financial liabilities are reasonable approximations of the book values. Interest does not accrue on trade payables. 22 Other current liabilities in € K Advance payments received 2008 2007 761 887 Other accruals 8,216 9,285 Deferred taxes 4,450 10,823 Value added tax 2,949 4,278 Personnel (wages/salaries, vacation, etc.) 11,459 13,653 Other 7,349 3,772 Total 35,184 42,698 107 108 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 The other accruals/deferrals in 2008 consist mainly of costs for 23 Derivative financial instruments preparing the annual financial statements, outstanding invoices, deposits and interest liabilities. Customers’ credit balances are Derivative financial instruments treated according to the hedge accounting criteria also included under this item. The nominal amounts and market values of derivative financial rebates and sales commissions, return obligations, warranty instruments that satisfy hedge accounting criteria are recogThe fair values of the short-term borrowings are reasonable nized as follows as per December 31, 2008 and 2007: approximations of the book values. 2008 in € K 2007 Nominal Value Market Value Nominal Value Market Value 10,023 1,573 0 0 0 0 24,000 832 Assets Currency hedges Interest hedges Commodity hedges Total 0 0 0 0 10,023 1,573 24,000 832 Liabilities Currency hedges Interest hedges 0 0 0 0 18,600 62 0 0 0 0 24 8 18,600 62 24 8 Commodity hedges Total The market values recognized in equity without effects on The maturities of derivative financial instruments are as profits and associated deferred tax developed as follows follows: during the fiscal year: in € K in € K Market Deferred Carried values taxes under equity 832 - 245 587 Assets Balance at Jan. 1, 2008 1 to 5 years Over 5 years Nominal Value Assets Currency hedges +/- not reflected in Up to 1 year Interest hedges 10,023 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10,023 0 0 0 0 0 5,400 13,200 0 0 0 0 5,400 13,200 0 Commodity income 1,165 - 384 781 +/- reflected in income - 424 134 - 290 1,573 - 495 1,078 hedges Total Balance at Dec. 31, 2008 Liabilities Currency hedges Equity and liabilities Balance at Jan. 1, 2007 Interest hedges 8 -3 5 income 62 - 18 44 +/- reflected in income -8 3 -5 62 - 18 44 +/- not reflected in hedges Balance at Dec. 31, 2008 Commodity Total Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Derivative financial instruments not treated according to the hedge accounting criteria Other information The derivatives concluded to hedge future foreign-exchange transactions (underlying transaction) as outlined in the follow- 24 Contingent liabilities ing do not satisfy formal hedge accounting criteria and are therefore classified as “held for trading” and recognized at fair Contingent liabilities, on the one hand, represent possible ob- value through profit or loss. They developed as follows during ligations that may be incurred depending on the outcome of a the fiscal year: future event or events which are of an uncertain nature and not wholly within the control of the company. On the other hand, contingent liabilities represent present obligations for which 2008 Nominal in € K Market Value 2007 Nominal Value Value Market payment is not probable or the amount of the obligation cannot be determined with sufficient reliability. Value The Group has undersigned the following guarantees: Assets Currency hedges 8,752 577 0 0 Total 8,752 577 0 0 in € K Guarantees Liabilities Currency hedges 11,729 121 0 0 Total 11,729 121 0 0 Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 2007 910 337 Furthermore, the company is liable to the amount of EUR K 4,091 (previous year: EUR K 4,091) in connection with a contract with the city of Munich to develop a property. The maturities of derivative financial instruments without hedge In addition to the above-mentioned contingent liabilities, the accounting are as follows: Group undersigns various financial guarantees (sureties). It is highly unlikely, however, that these will be exercised. Therefore no value was booked. in € K Up to 1 year 1 to 5 years Over 5 years The Group is liable for the following financial guarantees: Nominal Value Assets Currency hedges 8,752 0 0 Total 8,752 0 0 in € K Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 2007 Financial guarantees Book value Liabilities Currency hedges 11,729 Total 11,729 Nominal value 0 0 0 3,030 3,952 0 The financial guarantees include an agreement between the The offsetting values from the underlying transactions are not affiliate Wacker Neuson Maquinas Ltda. (Brazil) and a bank. The included in determining the market value of the derivative finan- agreement was concluded to enable the Wacker Corporation cial instruments. Thus, they do not represent the value that the to provide customers with financing options. The bank charges companies would achieve from both the underlying transaction the affiliate for these transactions. The charges are calculated and hedging contract. The book values of derivatives corres- based on the purchase agreement (0.5 percent to 1.0 percent). pond to the market values and there is no (material) exposure to In the event of default, the affiliate is obliged to settle the out- credit risks, since all derivative contracts were entered into with standing receivables plus interest. Interest rates range between banks that have a top credit rating. 11 percent and 14 percent. At the balance sheet date, the value of receivables financed by the bank amounted to EUR K 2,760 Refer to the section on additional information on financial instruments in these notes for information regarding net profits and losses from these financial instruments. (previous year: EUR K 3,649). 109 110 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 25 Other financial liabilities b) Lease obligations a) Obligations for equipment rental and service Finance lease obligations The terms of the obligations for rental equipment and service Finance leasing contracts mainly concern the purchase of contracts are as follows: office and other equipment and real estate. The following table lists the net book values of the relevant in € K Dec. 31, 2008 Obligations due within 1 year 10,834 Obligations due in 1 to 5 years 18,800 Obligations due in more than 5 years Total 7,557 37,191 assets at the closing date. in € K Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 2007 Office and other equipment 112 109 Buildings 828 887 Total 940 996 Lease contracts for office and other equipment contain, for the most part, a purchase option at the end of the basic term of the lease which is also to be exercised. The finance lease contract concerns the purchase of a self-occupied administration building by the Hungarian affiliate which will terminate in 2015. Future minimum lease payments discounted to present value are presented in the following table: in € K 2008 Up to 1 year Future minimum lease payments (nominal) 1 to 5 years Over 5 years Total 148 398 213 759 Less Discount -6 - 23 - 13 - 42 Present value 142 375 200 717 Up to 1 year 1 to 5 years Over 5 years Total 171 360 339 870 Less Discount -8 - 22 - 19 - 49 Present value 163 338 320 821 Discount rate 3.23 – 5.95% in € K 2007 Future minimum lease payments (nominal) Discount rate 5.00 – 10.32% To the extent that the company is the lessor and has sold machines by way of finance lease, the receivable is capitalized to the amount of the net investment value ensuing from the leasing contract. The sales proceeds are recognized in accordance with IAS 17. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements The present values at closing date are as follows: in € K 2008 Up to 1 year 1 to 5 years Over 5 years Total Outstanding min. lease-payments 413 12,579 0 12,992 + non-guaranteed residual value (nominal) 668 2,644 0 3,312 1,081 15,223 0 16,304 - 14 - 1,631 0 - 1,645 = Gross investment - Unrealized investment income = Net investment (present value) 1,067 13,592 0 14,659 - Present value of non-guaranteed residual values - 668 - 2,644 0 - 3,312 399 10,948 0 11,347 Up to 1 year 1 to 5 years Over 5 years Total 1,115 16,896 0 18,011 = Present value of minimum lease payments in € K 2007 Outstanding min. lease-payments + non-guaranteed residual value (nominal) 726 3,460 0 4,186 1,841 20,356 0 22,197 - Unrealized investment income - 107 - 4,728 0 - 4,835 = Net investment (present value) 1,734 15,628 0 17,362 - Present value of non-guaranteed residual values - 726 - 3,460 0 - 4,186 = Present value of minimum lease payments 1,008 12,168 0 13,176 Up to 1 year 1 to 5 years Over 5 years Total 5,149 8,750 6,660 20,559 = Gross investment Operating leases Insofar as a Wacker Group entity acts as a lessee, the lease payments are recognized as an expense over the term of the lease on a straight-line basis. This essentially refers to leased vehicles, computer hardware and other office equipment. Outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under operating leases that cannot be terminated can be seen in the following table: in € K Future minimum lease payments (nominal) In 2008, a total of EUR K 7,535 (previous year: EUR K 5,423) for operating lease agreements was expensed. c) Obligations resulting from investment decisions/ takeback obligations In addition, it should be noted that financial obligations ensuing from construction and investment projects amounting to EUR K 17,072 (previous year: 4,244) and from takeback obligations amounting to EUR K 1,670 also exist. 111 112 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 26 Additional information on financial instruments The book and fair values of financial assets and liabilities are presented in the following table. It also shows how the individual items are categorized. in € K Loans 2008 2008 Fair Book Initial dis- Held for Held for value value closure trading sale Hedges Leases Non- and financial others assets and re- Held to (book (book ceivables maturity value) value) IAS 39 classification (book value) Measured at fair Measured at fair value through profit value with changes At residual or loss recognized in equity book value Assets Other investments 3,420 3,420 0 0 3,420 0 0 0 0 0 assets 32,999 32,999 0 0 0 0 16,919 0 13,592 2,488 Trade receivables 119,188 Other non-current 119,188 0 0 0 0 118,121 0 1,067 0 Marketable securities 1,894 1,894 0 1,894 0 0 0 0 0 0 Other current assets 14,489 14,489 0 577 0 1,573 4,688 0 0 7,651 65,600 65,600 0 0 0 0 65,421 0 179 0 Cash and cash equivalents in € K Leases Non- and financial assets 2008 2008 At resid- others Fair Book Initial dis- Held for ual book (book (book value value closure trading value value) value) Hedges IAS 39 classification (book value) Measured at fair value with changes Measured at fair recog- value through profit nized in or loss equity Liabilities Long-term borrowings 38,845 38,845 0 0 38,270 0 575 0 Trade payables 32,290 32,290 0 0 32,290 0 0 0 Short-term borrowings from banks 81,742 81,742 0 0 81,742 0 0 0 Current portion of long-tem borrowings Other short-term liabilities 5,876 5,876 0 0 5,734 0 142 0 35,184 35,184 0 121 4,761 62 0 30,240 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in € K Loans 2007 2007 Fair Book Initial dis- Held for Held for value value closure trading sale Hedges Leases Non- and financial others assets and re- Held to (book (book ceivables maturity value) value) IAS 39 classification (book value) Measured at fair Measured at fair value through profit value with changes At residual or loss recognized in equity book value Assets Other investments 1,649 1,649 0 0 1,649 0 0 0 0 0 assets 34,523 34,523 0 0 0 832 17,219 0 15,628 844 Trade receivables 161,211 161,211 0 0 0 0 159,477 0 1,734 0 Marketable securities 88,656 88,656 77,272 11,330 54 0 0 0 0 0 Other current assets 12,169 12,169 0 0 0 0 3,310 0 0 8,859 76,816 76,816 0 0 0 0 76,609 0 207 0 Other non-current Cash and cash equivalents in € K Leases Non- and financial assets 2007 2007 Initial At resid- others Fair Book disclo- Held for ual book (book (book value value sure trading value value) value) Hedges IAS 39 classification (book value) Measured at fair value with changes Measured at fair recog- value through profit nized in or loss equity Liabilities Long-term borrowings 44,219 44,219 0 0 43,561 0 658 0 Trade payables 63,084 63,084 0 0 63,084 0 0 0 Short-term borrowings from banks 72,103 72,103 0 0 72,103 0 0 0 Current portion of long-tem borrowings Other short-term liabilities 6,073 6,073 0 0 5,910 0 163 0 42,698 42,698 0 0 1,758 8 0 40,932 113 114 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Investments in equity instruments amounting to EUR K 3,420 the value of EUR K 1,179 (previous year: EUR K 160), which is (previous year: EUR K 1,649) that do not have a quoted mar- disclosed under cost of sales. Refer to the sections on other ket price in an active market are included in other investments. income and other expenses for information on exchange rate These equity instruments were valued at acquisition cost as fluctuations and adjustments to monetary holdings. the current value cannot be reliably determined. The following table shows the net profits and losses from 27 Events since reporting date financial instruments based on valuation categories. It does not include the effects on income of finance leases or of deri- On February 11, 2009, the Supervisory Board of Wacker vatives that qualify for hedge accounting as these are not Neuson SE appointed the former members of the Executive allocated to any valuation categories set down in IAS 39. Board to the Executive Board of Wacker Neuson SE as part Similarly, interest and dividends have not been recognized of the move to change Wacker Construction Equipment AG on the net profits and losses from financial instruments. to an SE (Societas Europaea). Wacker Neuson SE was entered in the German Register of Companies under Section B of the Munich Magistrates Court (HRB 177839) on February 18, in € K Loans and receivables 2008 2007 - 2,956 - 286 The affiliate Wacker Neuson Rhymney Ltd. in the UK is due to Financial instruments measured at fair value through profit or loss – first-time approach close during the course of 2009. As a result, production of 868 2,406 - 1,938 - 543 0 1,935 Financial instruments held for trading four-wheel dumpers will be transferred from the Tredegar plant to Wacker Neuson Linz GmbH, based at Leonding in Financial liabilities measured at amortized cost 2009. Austria. The two factory premises of Wacker Neuson Rhymney Ltd. are located in Rhymney and Tredegar and are to be sold or rented over the coming months. The Austrian affiliate Wacker Neuson Linz GmbH has con- Net gain/loss from the category “loans and receivables” results cluded an option agreement for the purchase of a site. The from allowances for doubtful accounts on trade receivables. agreed purchase price is EUR K 9,166. Purchase of the site was closed on March 12, 2009. The gains and losses from adjustments to the fair value of derivatives that do not meet hedge accounting requirements are The Japanese affiliate Nippon Wacker Co. is to be sold or included in the category of assets held for trading. Gains and closed in fiscal 2009. losses from marketable securities categorized as assets held for trading are also disclosed here. No other noteworthy events occurred after the balance sheet date. In fiscal 2007, the category “financial liabilities measured at amortized cost” primarily concerned an amount from an agreement reached with a former shareholder of the affiliate Weidemann GmbH in order to settle a legal dispute over the remaining purchase price. Financial instruments in the form of foreign currency receivables and payables are valued at the relevant spot rates applicable on the balance sheet dates. For 2008, this resulted in proceeds to Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 28 Segmentation 29 Cash flow statement Primary segmentation (geographical segments) The cash flow statement was prepared in accordance with For information regarding geographical segmentation please from operating activities, from investing activities as well as refer to the section on consolidation structure (see the general from financing activities. Insofar as changes in liquid funds are information on accounting standards). due to foreign exchange rate fluctuations, these are reported IAS 7. The cash flow statement reports cash flows resulting separately. The determination of cash flow from operating The internal organization structure and management structure activities was derived using the indirect method. as well as the internal reports to the Executive Board and the Supervisory Board form the basis for determining the primary Current liquid funds comprise cash and cash equivalents that segment format of the company. In this respect the companies are as reported on the balance sheet. Current borrowings from are divided geographically into regional markets (Europe, banks in the Group cash pool were offset against cash and Americas and Asia). cash equivalents. The transactions between the individual segments are valuated according to the transfer prices used within the Group which in € K are derived from market prices. Cash on hand 2008 2007 179 207 Bank balances 61,855 74,008 Secondary segmentation (business segments) Cash deposits 3,566 2,601 The secondary segment is separated into the business seg- cash pool - 28,261 - 38,024 37,339 38,792 ments light equipment, compact equipment and services. Liabilities from group Total The light equipment business segment covers the manufacture and sale of light equipment weighing up to approximately three Non-cash operating expenses and income as well as the gain metric tons in the following four business fields: concrete tech- or loss on the sale of property, plant and equipment have been nology, soil and asphalt compaction, demolition and utility. eliminated in the cash flow from operating activities. The compact equipment business segment covers the manu- Cash flow from investing activities comprises the cash outlay facture and sale of compact equipment weighing up to approx- for intangible assets and property, plant and equipment as well imately fourteen metric tons. as interest received. The business segment services houses the company’s activi- The item outlining changes to the consolidation structure refers ties in the business fields after-market (repair and mainte- exclusively in fiscal 2008 to capital contributions to an affiliate nance) and rental. not consolidated for reasons of substantiality (see section 32 with overview of equity investments in non-consolidated Intercompany transactions between the individual Group companies). companies are based on prices that also apply to third-party transactions. Cash flow from financing activities is made up of payments received from and paid to shareholders as well as borrowing Assets cannot be meaningfully allocated to individual business segments, thus segment assets and capital expenditures are not reported. and the repayment of debt. 115 116 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 2007 Short-term net financial liabilities 20,124 - 87,296 Capital management Short-term liabilities 87,618 78,176 The main aim of the Group’s capital management policy is to less liquid assets - 65,600 - 76,816 receivables - 1,894 - 88,656 Net financial debt 58,969 - 43,077 Short-term net financial liabilities 20,124 - 87,296 plus long-term financial liabilities 38,845 44,219 30 in € K Risk management maintain a high equity ratio to support business activities. The Group controls and modifies its capital structure in line less short-term financial with changing economic dynamics. The goal of the capital management policy is to secure the company’s business and investment activities in the long term. To maintain or adapt capital structure, the Group can change dividend payments to shareholders or issue new shares. As of December 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, no changes were made to objectives, guidelines or procedures. The Group monitors its capital using Liquid assets cover cash and cash equivalents. Current the net financial debt resulting from current net financial liabili- marketable securities are disclosed under current financial ties and non-current financial liabilities. receivables. Financial liabilities includes not only borrowings from banks and bonds but also liabilities from finance leases and other non-current liabilities. Equity refers to the entire in € K Liquid assets Short-term financial receivables Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 2007 65,600 76,816 company. With the exception of minimum capital requirements 1,894 88,656 stipulated under German stock legislation, equity is not subject to any external minimum capital requirements. The company Short-term liabilities (without provisions) 155,558 185,324 liabilities 87,618 78,176 Short-term financial liabilities 81,742 72,103 5,876 6,073 posed to various risks, i.e. foreign currency risks, credit risks, liquidity risks and interest rate risks. The comprehensive risk Long-term financial liabilities 38,845 44,219 management policy of the Group is focused on the unpredictability of developments in financial markets and aims at mini- Equity Share capital Financial risk factors Due to the global scope of its operations, the Group is ex- Current portion of long-term (without provisions) complies with the minimum capital requirements stipulated under German stock legislation. thereof short-tem financial financial liabilities equity amount attributable to shareholders in the parent mizing any potential negative impact on the Group’s financial 70,140 70,140 Share premium 618,397 618,450 Other reserves - 35,881 - 32,264 derivative financial instruments in a targeted way to hedge Retained earnings 219,043 199,987 against certain risks. Earnings 37,389 54,126 Total equity 909,088 910,439 1,035,551 1,032,834 Total capitalization position. It is a general policy of the company to reduce these risks by systematic financial management. The Group employs Risk management is carried out by the Group finance department in accordance with the rules and guidelines approved by the Executive Board. The Group finance department identifies, evaluates and hedges against financial risks in close co-operation with the operating units of the Group. The Executive Board sets guidelines for risk management as well as policies outlining for example how to deal with foreign currency risks, interest rate risks and credit risks, how to use derivative and other financial instruments and how to use liquidity surpluses. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Currency risks Credit risks Currency risks arise from expected future transactions, assets The Group is not exposed to any material credit risks (address and liabilities reported in the balance sheet, as well as net in- default risks). Contracts for derivative financial instruments vestments in a currency that diverges from the functional cur- and financial transactions are concluded only with financial in- rency (euro). Exchange risks are naturally hedged by offsetting stitutions with a high quality credit rating in order to keep the receivables against payables in a given currency. risk of default by the contracting party as low as possible. The book value of financial assets recognized in the Consolidated Two of the Group’s major manufacturing affiliates prepare their Financial Statements less impairment represents the maxi- balance sheets in US dollar. From the Group’s perspective, the mum default risk. For further information on the book value US dollar is therefore a foreign currency that represents a sig- of the financial assets, please refer to the section “additional nificant potential currency risk for financial instruments. If the information on financial instruments” in these notes. USD/EUR exchange rate increased or decreased by 5 percent, changes in the financial assets and liabilities reported in the Interest rate risks balance sheet in US dollars would have the following impact on Interest rate risks are caused by market fluctuations in interest profit before tax and equity: rates. On the one hand, they impact the amount of interest payments for which the company is liable. On the other hand, they influence the market value of financial instruments. USD currency trends in % 2008 2007 + 5.00/- 5.00 + 5.00/- 5.00 The Group hedges its cash flow against interest rate risks arising from borrowing with variable interest rates primarily by Impact on profit before tax (EBIT) in € K 195/- 215 - 428/473 means of interest rate swaps (payer swaps), which, taking the Impact on equity in € K 195/- 215 - 428/473 prevailing economic climate into consideration, convert the variable interest rate positions into positions with fixed interest rates. The parent company undersigned a foreign-current loan to the value of EUR K 10,000 (corresponding to GBP K 9,600). If the The following tables show how sensitive the Group’s profit be- GBP/EUR exchange rate increased or decreased by 5 percent, fore tax is to even conservative changes in interest rates based this would have the following impact on profit before tax and on the impact this would have on variable interest rate loans equity: and bank balances as well as marketable securities. The effects on Group profit before tax also reflect the impact on equity. GBP currency trends in % 2008 2007 + 5.00/- 5.00 + 5.00/- 5.00 Impact on profit before tax (EBIT) in € K 476/- 526 0/0 Impact on equity in € K 476/- 526 0/0 The Group is also subject to currency risks from individual transactions resulting from purchases and sales executed by a member company in a currency other than the functional currency. 117 118 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Impact on profit Balance at Impact on profit before tax before tax Dec. 31, 2008 Interest 2008 (increase of 20%) (decrease of 20%) 29,221 1.50% 58 - 58 1,894 5.39% 4 -4 Borrowings from banks 28,261 1.50% - 57 57 Other variable borrowings from banks 53,481 5.22% - 107 107 - 102 102 Impact on profit Impact on profit in € K Financial assets with variable interest rates Bank balances cash pool Marketable securities Financial liabilities with variable interest rates Total Balance at before tax before tax (increase of 20%) (decrease of 20%) Dec. 31, 2007 Interest 2007 Bank balances cash pool 55,063 3.50% 110 - 110 Marketable securities 88,656 4.47% 177 - 177 Borrowings from banks 38,024 3.50% - 76 76 Other variable borrowings from banks 30,326 4.40% - 61 61 150 - 150 in € K Financial assets with variable interest rates Financial liabilities with variable interest rates Total Two bonds to the value of EUR K 19,138 (previous year: Liquidity risk EUR K 18,826) with fixed interest rates also exist in addition to Liquidity risks involve the availability of funds needed to meet the variable financial assets and liabilities listed above. These payment obligations on time. The company is assured a supply bonds are disclosed in detail under the financial liabilities sec- of liquid funds at all times by the lines of credit not currently tion (20) in these notes. As the interest rates for these bonds used by the company. Liquidity is managed by the Group’s are fixed, there is no risk from interest rate fluctuations. treasury department via a Group-wide cash pool system. Refer to the financial liabilities section (20) in these notes for further A loan was also taken out to finance the acquisition of Weide- information on existing credit lines. mann GmbH to the value of EUR K 18,600 (previous year: EUR K 24,000). This is disclosed in detail under the financial liabilities section in these notes. The interest payments from 31 Acquisitions and disposals the loan are hedged with an interest rate swap at an interest rate of 2.98 percent. Refer to the derivative financial instruments section (23) in these notes for further information. No acquisitions or disposals were made in fiscal 2008. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 32 Overview of equity investments in non-consolidated companies Wacker Neuson Beteiligungs GmbH directly or indirectly has shareholdings in the following companies that were not included in the consolidation structure: Company Name Country Wacker Neuson Kragujevac d.o.o. Serbia Particpating Particpating Equity interest direct interest indirect in € K in € K - 1,156 - 1,309 100% Profit for period Wacker Neuson Lapovo d.o.o. Serbia 100% 1,317 4 NK Administration Ltd. UK 100% under closure under closure Kramer-Allrad of North America Inc. USA 100% 95% under closure under closure Kramer-Allrad France S.A.R.L France 100% 95% under closure under closure Wacker Neuson Immobilien GmbH Germany 100% 95% 1,558 0 Germany 100% 95% 45 0 Wacker Neuson Wohnungsbau GmbH The negative equity of Wacker Neuson Kragujevac d.o.o. was Total remuneration for the Executive Board in the period under recognized through an appropriate reduction in receivables review amounted to EUR K 3,619 (previous year: EUR K 3,505). vis-à-vis the company in the consolidated earnings. At the AGM on May 15, 2006, a resolution was passed to refrain from itemizing this information in accordance with Section 285 (1), no. 9a clauses 5 to 9 in conjunction with Section 314 (2), 33 Executive bodies clause 2 HGB, in conjunction with Section 315a, (1) HGB. Executive Board The following members of the company’s Executive Board The company’s Executive Board comprises the following five have additional supervisory board positions or seats for com- members parable supervisory committees in Germany and abroad: Dr.-Ing. Georg Sick, CEO, responsible for corporate commu- Richard Mayer nication, Group auditing, quality management, legal matters Member of the Advisory Board of the EQUA association and human resources in Herrsching, Germany Martin Lehner, Deputy CEO, responsible for the compact Günther Binder equipment business segment Member of the Supervisory Board of Volksbank Günther Binder, responsible for finance, controlling and IT Linz-Mühlviertel, Austria Richard Mayer, responsible for the light equipment business segment With the exception of the members stated above, no other Werner Schwind, responsible for sales, marketing, service members of the Executive Board have administrative, execu- and rental tive or supervisory functions or mandates for comparable supervisory committees in Germany or abroad outside of the Wacker Neuson Group. 119 120 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Supervisory Board The total remuneration for the Supervisory Board for fiscal year The following members are appointed to the Supervisory 2008 amounted to EUR K 307 (previous year: EUR K 409). Board of Wacker Construction Equipment AG as on the closing date: The following members of the company’s Supervisory Board have additional supervisory board positions or seats for com- Hans Neunteufel, Chairman of the PIN Private Trust (PIN parable supervisory committees in Germany and abroad: Privatstiftung), in Linz, Austria, Chairman of the Supervisory Board Hans Neunteufel Dr. Ulrich Wacker, Chairman of the EQUA Association Member of the Supervisory Board of Allgemeine Sparkasse (EQUA-Stiftung), Herrsching, Germany, Deputy Chairman Oberösterreich Bankaktiengesellschaft, Austria, (as of of the Supervisory Board April 22, 2008: Chairman of the Supervisory Board) Kurt Helletzgruber, Chairman of the ASTOR Private Founda- Member of the Supervisory Board of the Oberösterrei- tion (ASTOR Privatstiftung), in Linz, Austria chische Technologie- und Marketinggesellschaft m.b.H. Dr. Eberhard Kollmar, attorney-at-law, Rothe, Senninger & (technological organization in the state of Upper Austria), Kollmar, Munich, Germany Dr. Ulrich Wacker Elvis Schwarzmair, Chairman of the Reichertshofen Works Member of the Advisory Board of Wacker Beteiligungs Council and Chairman of the Central Works Council, Chair- GmbH & Co. KG i. L., Germany man of the Group Works Council Dr. Eberhard Kollmar Herbert Santl, Chairman of the Munich Works Council Member of the Advisory Board of Wacker Beteiligungs GmbH & Co. KG i. L., Germany In accordance with the resolutions regarding the company’s Kurt Helletzgruber transition to a European company (SE) that were approved at Deputy Chairman of the Supervisory Board of HTI AG the AGM on June 3, 2008, all Supervisory Board members’ (formerly ProRegio Mittelstandsfinanzierungs AG), Austria positions shall be terminated when the transition to Wacker Neuson SE becomes effective. The transition became effective Remuneration for former board members on February 18, 2009. Total remuneration for former members of the Executive Board in the period under review amounted to EUR K 231 (previous The members of the first Wacker Neuson SE Supervisory year: EUR K 280). Board are appointed by the AGM. On June 3, 2008, the AGM already appointed the company’s former shareholder representatives as shareholder representatives in the first Super- 34 Related party disclosures visory Board of the SE, in other words, Mr. Hans Neunteufel, Dr. Ulrich Wacker, Dr. Eberhard Kollmar and Mr. Kurt Helletz- In the case of the Group, IAS 24 defines a related party neces- gruber. The employee representatives for the Wacker Neuson sitating disclosures as shareholders, entities over which share- SE Supervisory Board shall be appointed in due consideration holders have control or significant influence (sister companies), of the employee participation guidelines. Based on the agree- non-consolidated companies, members of the Executive ment outlining employee participation, which has been entered Board, members of the Supervisory Board and the pension into in accordance with the law on the involvement of employ- fund. ees (SE-Beteiligungsgesetz), Mr. Herbert Santl and Mr. Elvis Schwarzmair were already appointed to the Supervisory Board The controlling interest is held by Wacker Familiengesellschaft as employee representatives on January 14, 2009. The Super- mbH & Co. KG, Munich. visory Board of Wacker Neuson SE is thus the same as that of Wacker Construction Equipment AG. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Key trade relations with related parties were as follows during the period under review: in € K Short-term Short-term Expenses for busi- Income for busi- receivables payables ness transactions ness transactions Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 2008 2008 2008 135 0 687 915 Relations with shareholders Relations with sister companies Relations with non-consolidated companies Pension fund Total in € K 92 447 8,034 452 2,005 193 1,174 1,051 0 213 0 0 2,232 853 9,895 2,418 Short-term Short-term Expenses for busi- Income for busi- receivables payables ness transactions ness transactions Dec. 31, 2007 Dec. 31, 2007 2007 2007 124 0 886 974 1,448 137 905 76 824 31 326 118 60 219 0 0 2,456 387 2,117 1,168 Relations with shareholders Relations with sister companies Relations with non-consolidated companies Pension fund Total Relations with shareholders resulted mainly from goods and Relations with non-consolidated companies resulted from goods services traded with a shareholder. The goods and services and services traded between affiliates and Neuson Kramer delivered to the shareholder were valued at EUR K 907 (previous subgroup companies that were not consolidated but where a year: EUR K 973). These were counterbalanced with goods shareholding exists (see general information on accounting and services received by the shareholder to the value of standards /consolidation structure). Receivables in fiscal 2008 EUR K 687 (previous year: EUR K 886). The goods and ser- were adjusted by EUR K 1,174. vices were traded under the terms customary in the market, as agreed with third parties. Relations with the pension fund during the period under review refers exclusively to a provision for voluntary support and pen- Relations with sister companies and entities over which share- sion benefits for employees of the parent company. holders have control or significant influence resulted from deliveries, IT service deliveries, and rental arrangements between Total remuneration for the Executive Board in the period under affiliates and entities over which shareholders have control or review amounted to EUR K 3,619 (previous year: EUR K 3,505). significant influence. Total remuneration for the Supervisory Board for the same period amounted to EUR K 307 (previous year: EUR K 409). At the closing date, short-term payables to the Executive Board in the amount of EUR K 624 were outstanding (previous year: EUR K 1,224). 121 122 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Retirement commitments were agreed upon for members of the Executive Board. The value of pension obligations at the end of the accounting period totaled EUR K 8,837 (previous year: EUR K 8,311). The allocation amounted to EUR K 702 (previous year: 1,644). Pension agreements were also concluded for two former Responsibility Statement (“Bilanzeid”) (Statement in accordance with section 37y no. 1 of the Wertpapierhandelsgesetz (WpHG – German Securities Trading Act) in conjunction with sections 297(2) sentence 4 and 315(1) sentence 6 of the Handelsgesetzbuch (HGB – German Commercial Code)) Executive Board members as a result of agreements to that effect. The value of these pension obligations at the end of “To the best of our knowledge, and in accordance with the the accounting period totaled EUR K 5,527 (previous year: applicable reporting principles, the consolidated financial state- EUR K 5,712). In fiscal 2008, EUR K 469 (previous year: ments give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial EUR K 345) was paid to former Executive Board members. position and profit or loss of the group, and the group management report includes a fair review of the development and performance of the business and the position of the group, together 35 Auditor’s fee with a description of the principal opportunities and risks associated with the expected development of the group.” The auditor’s fee is disclosed as an expense in fiscal 2008 and is broken down as follows: Munich, March 23, 2009 in € K 2008 2007 363 286 services 361 600 Tax consultation services 205 55 70 55 Auditing services Wacker Neuson SE, Munich, Germany (Wacker Construction Equipment AG until February 18, 2009) Other approval and assessment Other services The Executive Board Dr.-Ing. Georg Sick (CEO and President) 36 Declaration regarding the German Corporate Governance Codex Martin Lehner Richard Mayer (Deputy CEO) The Executive and Supervisory Boards have issued a declaration stating which recommendations of the “Commission of the German Corporate Governance Code” have been and will be adopted. The declaration is permanently available to shareholders. 37 Release for publication The Consolidated Financial Statements for Wacker Neuson SE (formerly: Wacker Construction Equipment AG) for the year ending December 31, 2008 have been released for publication on March 23, 2009 by resolution of the Executive Board. Günther C. Binder Werner Schwind Unqualified Auditors’ Opinion Unqualified Auditors’ Opinion We have audited the consolidated financial statements prepared primarily on a test basis within the framework of the audit. by Wacker Construction Equipment AG, comprising the balance The audit includes assessing the annual financial statements of sheet, the income statement, the statement of changes in equity, those entities included in consolidation, the determination of the cash flow statement and the notes to the consolidated the entities to be included in consolidation, the accounting and financial statements, together with the group management consolidation principles used and significant estimates made report for the reporting period from January 1 through Decem- by management, as well as the evaluation of the overall pre- ber 31, 2008. sentation of the consolidated financial statements and the group management report. We believe that our audit provides a rea- The preparation of the consolidated interim financial statements sonable basis for our opinion. and the group management report in accordance with those IFRS as adopted by the EU, and the additional requirements of Our audit has not led to any reservations. German commercial law pursuant to § 315a paragraph 1 HGB are the responsibility of the parent company´s management. In our opinion and based on the findings of our audit, the conso- Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the consolidated lidated financial statements comply with those IFRS as adopted financial statements and on the group management report by the EU and the additional requirements of German commer- based on our audit. cial law pursuant to § 315a paragraph 1 HGB and give a true and fair view of the net assets, financial position and results of We have conducted our audit of the condensed consolidated operations of the Group in accordance with these requirements. financial statements in accordance with § 317 HGB and German The group management report is consistent with the consoli- generally accepted standards for the audit of financial state- dated financial statements and as a whole provides a suitable ments promulgated by the “Institut der Wirtschaftsprüfer” (Insti- view of the Group´s position and suitably presents the opportu- tute of Public Auditors in Germany). Those standards require nities and risks of future development. that we plan and perform the audit so that misstatements materially affecting the presentation of the net assets, financial position an results of operations in the consolidated financial Munich, March 23, 2009 statements in accordance with the applicable financial reporting framework and in the group management report are detected with reasonable assurance. Knowledge of the business activi- Rölfs WP Partner AG ties and the economic and legal environment of the Group and Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft expectations as to possible misstatements are taken into account in the determination of audit procedures. The effectiveness of the accounting-related internal control system and the Reinke Jagosch evidence supporting the disclosures in the consolidated finan- Wirtschaftsprüfer Wirtschaftsprüfer cial statements and the group management report are examined (Public Auditor) (Public Auditor) 123 124 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Technical Glossary Compact Equipment Group’s strategic business segment covering equipment of up to fourteen tons, particularly wheel loaders, compact loaders, telescopic loaders, mini-excavators and dumpers. Compact wheel loader Small wheel loader either with four-wheel drive steering or rubber tracks which offers excellent maneuverability in small areas and easy handling even across the roughest terrain. Multi-purpose attachments are available. Concrete technology Business field in the light equipment segment. The equipment is mainly used for compacting concrete walls, ceilings and floors. Demolition Business field in the light equipment segment. The equipment is used to break or cut asphalt and concrete. Dumpers Compact construction vehicle primarily used for transporting bulk solids such as gravel and sand. Floor saws Hand-guided saws equipped with a diamond blade like the cut-off saw mainly used for cutting concrete and asphalt floors. Focus factory Element of manufacturing concept, where production is organized by business field. Each factory, staffed by a specialized team, is responsible for producing a single product group. Heavy equipment Large construction machinery defined by the company as having a total weight of over fifteen tons, typically transported to construction sites for specific projects and operated by specially trained employees. Hydronic heating Mobile heating equipment to thaw frozen ground or heat buildings, making construction work less equipment dependent on weather conditions. Internal vibrator Used for concrete compaction, mainly on construction sites. The device consists of eccentric weights driven by an electrical motor, arranged in a waterproof steel tube for submersion in fresh concrete. Technical Glossary Light Equipment Group’s strategic business segment. Covers predominantly handheld and handguided devices as well as remote-controlled or ride-on equipment of up to around three tons. Rebar cutter Metal rods for reinforced concrete can be cut to measure with rebar cutters. Soil and asphalt Business field in the light equipment segment. The equipment is mainly used for compacting soil and compaction asphalt in the construction process of trenches, roads, paths, foundations and industrial buildings. Telescopic loaders Telescopic loaders like wheel loaders may be used in construction as well as in agriculture. Even though our loaders have a compact and low level design they can reach enormous lifting heights. Telescopic loaders provide the necessary flexibilty to complete a wide range of tasks. Trowel Used in concrete technology for surface smoothing, especially of freshly laid concrete flooring, e.g. in industrial buildings. Utility Group’s business field in the light equipment segment. The equipment such as generators, light towers, submersible pumps and mobile hydronic heating systems is used to support construction site activities. Vibratory plate Soil and asphalt compaction device, mainly used to compact pipeline trenches and paving stones. The machines are also used to support rollers in the compaction process of area and asphalt compaction. Vibratory rammer First developed in the 1930s by the company, this pioneering product is used in soil and asphalt (also rammer) compaction, particularly in small spaces and narrow trenches. Wheel loader Several types of wheel loaders are available featuring different technology and attachments. The variety of applications include landscape, utility, pallet fork operation and lifting. 125 126 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Financial Glossary Cash flow As part of the impairment test according to IAS (see below), a cash-generating unit is the smallest identifiable group of assets that generates cash inflows for the Group. Cash flow from Cash balance resulting from changes to financial liabilities, cash inflow from disposals/cash outflow financing activities from the acquisition of treasury shares and dividend payments. Cash flow from Cash balance resulting from the acquisition or disposal of financial and tangible assets. investment activities Cash flow from Cash flow generated from operating activities. operating activities Corporate governance Sound and responsible management and control of a company with the aim of creating long-term value. Deferred taxes Refer to future tax liabilities or assets, resulting from temporary differences between book (accounting) value of assets and liabilities and their tax value. Derivatives Derivatives are financial instruments, such as futures and options, that derive their value from the value of other financial instruments or an underlying asset. Discounted cash flow Valuation method used to estimate the market value by discounting a company’s future cash flows (DCF) method to their present value. Earnings per share EPS is defined as net profit for the year divided by the number of shares. EBIT (margin) Earnings Before Interest and Taxes. Margin: ratio of EBIT to sales. EBITDA (margin) Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization. Margin: ratio of EBITDA to sales. EBT Earnings Before Taxes. Equity capital quota Ratio of equity capital to total capital; indicates the financial stability of a company. Financial Glossary Fair value Value of assets and liabilities at standard market value. Free cash flow Free cash flow refers to the amount of cash readily available to a company. Goodwill The difference between the purchase price of an acquired company and the value of the individual assets acquired less liabilities at the time of acquisition. Gross profit Gross profit expressed as a percentage of total revenue, remaining after deducting manufacturing costs. It gives an indication of a company’s cost-efficiency. Hedge Provides protection against risk arising from unfavorable exchange rate and price changes. IFRS (IAS) International Financial Reporting Standards. Internationally recognized and applied accounting standards devised by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) in an effort to harmonize accounting standards and principles worldwide. IPO Initial Public Offering. Interest rate swap An interest rate swap is an agreement between two parties to exchange interest rate cash flows at a future point in time. The agreement also defines how the payments are calculated and when they are made. PPA (Purchase Price Allocation). This refers to the process whereby the price paid for a company is allocated at fair value to the assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities acquired. Project Unit Credit Method The objective of this IAS 19 standard is to prescribe the accounting and disclosure of employee benefits. Obligations from defined benefit plans are disclosed according to this method, taking expected future benefit and pension adjustments into consideration. Working capital The difference between short-term assets and short-term liabilities; the working capital ratio is a key indicator of the liquidity of a company. 127 128 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Income Statements Overview of Wacker and Neuson Kramer subgroups (before consolidation) Wacker subgroup in € K Revenue Cost of sales Gross profit Jan.1– Dec. 31, 2008 Jan.1– Dec. 31, 2007 609,009 658,195 - 373,652 - 386,341 235,357 271,854 - 140,247 - 135,427 Research and development expenses - 15,511 - 18,395 General administrative expenses - 40,606 - 44,860 6,144 7,627 Other expenses - 7,236 - 2,581 Profit before interest and tax (EBIT) 37,902 78,218 Sales and service expenses Other income Financial result 1,277 146 39,179 78,364 - 12,801 - 24,026 26,378 54,338 Result from discontinued operations 0 0 Minority interests 0 0 Profit for the period 26,378 54,338 Depreciation and amortization 32,386 27,861 EBITDA 70,288 106,079 Jan.1– Dec. 31, 2008 Feb.1– Dec. 31, 20071 338,199 329,924 Cost of sales - 263,395 - 238,723 Gross profit 74,804 91,201 - 16,239 - 18,115 - 6,385 - 5,163 - 12,570 - 15,887 4,879 3,992 Other expenses - 4,215 - 1,517 Profit before interest and tax (EBIT) 40,274 54,511 Financial result - 3,273 - 2,012 Profit before tax (EBT) Taxes on income Profit before disc. operations, minority interests Neuson Kramer subgroup1 in € K Revenue Sales and service expenses Research and development expenses General administrative expenses Other income Profit before tax (EBT) Taxes on income Profit before disc. operations, minority interests Result from discontinued operations Minority interests Profit for the period Depreciation and amortization EBITDA 1 11 months only for Neuson Baumaschinen GmbH 37,001 52,499 - 10,531 - 16,882 26,470 35,617 0 -3 - 834 - 787 25,636 34,827 6,766 4,080 47,040 58,591 2 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Additional tables Figures at a glance 2008 Wacker Neuson Group Wacker Neuson Group at December 31 Overview of PPA1 in € million 2008 2007 2006 in € K Jan. 1– Purchase price Jan. 1– Jan. 1– Jan. 1– Dec. 31, 2008 allocation Dec. 31, 2008 Dec. 31, 20072 Dec. 31, 2007 with PPA with PPA with PPA1 including Q4 (without PPA) Neuson Kramer 870.3 742.1 619.3 Europe 676.2 520.7 391.1 Americas 166.9 196.1 205 27.2 25.3 23.2 Light Equipment 329.3 405.3 388.3 Compact Equipment 353.7 178.2 87.5 Profit before interest and tax (EBIT) 64,102 Services 187.3 158.6 143.5 Financial result 100.9 (102.2) 117.0 (119.6) 100.2 Profit before tax (EBT) Depreciation and amortization (without PPA) 43.0 (38.1) 38.1 23.6 Taxes on income EBIT (without PPA) 58.0 (64.1) 78.9 (90.4) 76.7 Profit before disc. operations, 55.7 78.2 76.2 37.4 (41.9) 54.1 (62.0) 48.5 3,665 3,659 2,837 pro-forma without PPA Key figures Sales Cost of sales by region Asia Gross profit EBT Profit for the period (without PPA) Number of employees Earnings per share in € 0.53 1.10 1.19 Dividends per share in € 0.193 0.50 0.62 Key profit figures Gross profit in % EBITDA margin as a % (without PPA) 296,063 - 2,617 870,331 742,062 979,534 - 576,885 - 459,530 - 633,080 293,446 282,532 346,454 - 156,486 - 140,090 - 153,542 - 21,896 - 3,161 - 25,056 - 20,810 - 26,719 General administrative expenses - 53,152 - 335 - 53,487 - 48,289 - 60,505 Other expenses minority interests 11,023 11,023 8,421 11,042 - 11,451 - 11,451 - 2,859 - 4,098 - 6,113 57,989 78,905 112,632 - 1,996 - 312 - 2,308 - 660 - 2,178 62,106 - 6,425 55,681 78,245 110,454 - 19,401 1,825 - 17,576 - 24,142 - 34,928 42,705 - 4,600 38,105 54,103 75,526 0 0 -3 0 Result from discontinued operations - 833 117 - 716 23 - 484 Profit for the period 41,872 - 4,483 37,389 54,126 75,039 Depreciation and amortization 38,136 4,818 42,954 38,081 44,783 102,238 - 1,295 100,943 116,986 157,415 Minority interests EBITDA 1 33.7 38.1 41.3 11.6 (11.7) 15.8 (16.1) 16.2 6.7 (7.4) 10.6 (12.2) 12.4 Long-term assets 750.0 697.0 229.2 Current assets 428.6 517.5 245.8 Equity 911.8 912.7 282.4 59.0 - 43.1 45.1 266.8 301.8 192.6 77.4 75.2 59.5 303.9 273.2 158.6 EBIT margin as a % (without PPA) - 2,617 Research and development expenses Other income Share - 574,268 - 156,486 Sales and service expenses by business segment2 EBITDA (without PPA) 870,331 Revenue with PPA PPA = Purchase price allocation. Purchase price allocation describes the process where purchase costs resulting from acquisitions are allocated to individually acquired assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities, which are measured at fair value. 2 Incl. Q4 Neuson Kramer subgroup Key figures from the balance sheet Net financial debt Liabilities Equity ratio as a % Working capital 6-Year-Comparison1 in ¤ million Sales EBITDA (margin as a %) EBIT (margin as a %) Cash flow Cash flow from operating activities 31.1 55.0 Cash flow from investing activities - 9.5 - 141.8 - 41.6 Cash flow from financing activities - 21.9 96.4 - 23.0 Free cash flow 23.4 62.1 Profit for the period 49.1 Equity Balance sheet total 22.6 1 PPA = Purchase price allocation. Purchase price allocation describes the process where purchase costs resulting from acquisitions are allocated to individually acquired assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities, which are measured at fair value. 2 Consolidated sales after discounts. 3 Dividend payment proposed at the AGM on May 28, 2009. 1 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 870.3 742.1 619.3 503.2 411.2 361.9 100.9 (11.6) 117.0 (15.8) 100.2 (16.2) 70.3 (14.0) 60.5 (14.7) 48.2 (13.3) 58.0 (6.7) 78.9 (10.6) 76.7 (12.4) 50.7 (10.1) 41.9 (10.2) 29.0 (8.0) 37.4 54.1 48.5 31.3 25.7 21.4 911.8 912.7 282.4 289.9 246.3 284.6 1,178.6 1,214.5 475.0 443.1 315.1 345.0 Equity ration as a % 77.4 75.2 59.5 65.4 78.2 82.5 Capital expenditure 101.8 84.0 31.9 37.6 20.6 17.3 Number of employees 3,665 3,659 2,837 2,630 2,224 2,168 All figures prepared according to IFRS 129 130 Wacker Neuson SE | Annual Report 2008 Publishing Details/Financial Calendar Contact Publishing Details Wacker Neuson SE Issued by: To our Shareholders Figures at a glance |2 Management |4 Foreword by Management |5 Special report: Sound strategy for times of crisis |8 Report by Supervisory Board | 10 Corporate Governance | 16 Investor Relations | 23 Group Structure | 28 Group Management Report | 29 Consolidated Financial Statements | 70 Further Information Wacker Neuson SE, Imre Szerdahelyi Corporate Communication department Glossaries | 124 Additional tables | 128 Publishing Details/Financial Calendar | 130 Head of Corporate Communication Preussenstrasse 41 Concept & design: 80809 Munich Kirchhoff Consult AG, Munich, Germany Germany Content: Phone +49 - (0)89 - 354 02 - 251 Fax +49 - (0)89 - 354 02 - 203 Wacker Neuson SE Joachim Weber, Frankfurt, Germany ir@wackerneuson.com Print: www.wackerneuson.com p d peschke druck, Munich, Germany Financial Calendar 2009 March 30, 2009 Publication of financial results 2008, press conference May 14, 2009 Publication of first-quarter report 2009, analyst conference May 28, 2009 AGM, Munich, Germany August 13, 2009 Publication of half-year report 2009 November 11, 2009 Publication of nine-month 2009 All rights reserved. Valid March 2009. Wacker Neuson SE accepts no liability for the accuracy and completeness of information provided in this brochure. Reprint only with the written approval of Wacker Neuson SE in Munich, Germany. The German version shall govern in all instances. In the event of discrepancies between the German and the English version, the German version shall prevail. Our business segments Light Equipment Compact Equipment Services With the business fields: With the product groups: With the business fields: Concrete technology Track and mobile excavators Service Soil and asphalt compaction Wheel loaders Rental Demolition Telehandlers (Central and Eastern Europe)1 Utility Skid-steer loaders Dumpers 1 In countries where we are not in direct competition with our key accounts. Disclaimer This Annual Report contains forward-looking statements which are based on the current estimates and assumptions by the corporate management of Wacker Neuson SE. Forward-looking statements are characterized by the use of words such as expect, intend, plan, predict, assume, believe, estimate, anticipate and similar formulations. Such statements are not to be understood as in anyway guaranteeing that those expectations will turn out to be accurate. Future performance and the results actually achieved by Wacker Neuson SE and its affiliated companies depend on a number of risks and uncertainties and may therefore differ materially from the forward-looking statements. Many of these factors are outside the Company´s control and cannot be accurately estimated in advance, such as the future economic environment and the actions of competitors and others involved in the marketplace. The Company neither plans nor undertakes to update any forward-looking statements. Wacker Neuson SE Annual Report 2008 Markets in motion. Strategy in place. Wacker Neuson SE Preussenstrasse 41 80809 Munich Germany Tel. + 49 - (0)89 - 354 02 - 0 Fax + 49 - (0)89 - 354 02 - 390 www.wackerneuson.com 0988070|04-2009|Layout KC|Print pd Annual Report 2008