Avant Brands Annual Report 2014

Plain-text annual report

Collaboration. Innovation. Excellence. Annual Report 2014 Collaboration. Innovation. Excellence. Annual Report 2014 ABOUT US PolyOne Corporation, with 2014 revenues of $3.8 billion, is a premier provider of specialized polymer materials, services and solutions. We are dedicated to serving customers in diverse industries around the globe, by creating value through collaboration, innovation and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Guided by our Core Values, Sustainability Promise and No Surprises PledgeSM, we are committed to our customers, employees, communities and shareholders through ethical, sustainable and ﬁscally responsible principles. By putting customers first and executing our proven strategy, our global team of associates delivered record-breaking performances in 2014. We’re now building on our momentum, collaborating and innovating to make 2015 even better. —Robert M. Patterson, President and Chief Executive Ofﬁcer ON THE COVER Color treatment and selection of this publication’s imagery and content utilized PolyOne’s InVisiOSM Color and Design Services, including application of our “Building Blocks” 2015 Color Inspiration palette. 1 OUR VISION To be the world’s premier provider of specialized polymer materials, services and solutions. OUR VALUES Collaboration. Innovation. Excellence. These core values, which begin with our individual decisions and actions, focus our attention on putting the customer ﬁrst by creating genuine value through collaboration, innovation and an unwavering commitment to excellence. We will uphold these values with the utmost integrity in all that we do. OUR STRATEGY SPECIALIZATION: SPECIALIZATION: Diﬀerentiates us through unique value-creating oﬀerings to our customers. GLOBALIZATION: GLOBALIZATION: Positions us to serve our customers consistently, everywhere in the world. OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE: OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE: Empowers us to respond to the voice of the customer with relentless continuous improvement. COMMERCIAL EXCELLENCE: COMMERCIAL EXCELLENCE: Governs our activities in the marketplace to deliver extraordinary value to our customers. In this annual report, statements that are not reported ﬁnancial results or other historical information are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Factors that could cause our actual results to diﬀer materially from those implied by forward-looking statements are described in detail in Part l of the Form 10-K. 2 Annual Report 2014 A Letter To Our Shareholders from Robert M. Patterson, President and CEO 2014 was another remarkable year in PolyOne’s ongoing transformation into a specialty growth company. 333 It was a year that showcased how our exceptional ability to execute PolyOne’s proven strategy continues to deliver value for our customers, shareholders and associates. It was a year of an important leadership transition, as I had the privilege of succeeding Steve Newlin, the architect of PolyOne’s transformation and my mentor, to become president and CEO of this great company. And most importantly, it was a year in which we built upon our previous momentum: • The fourth quarter of 2014 marked our 21st consecutive quarter of strong double-digit adjusted EPS growth • Adjusted EPS for the full year was $1.80, an all-time record, representing a 37 percent increase over 2013 • We have delivered a 40 percent adjusted EPS CAGR since our transformation began in 2006 • Since 2009, our Total Shareholder Return of 430 percent is more than double that of the S&P Mid Cap Chemicals index Upon becoming the CEO in May, I committed that certain aspects of our company would not change—our culture and values, our performance targets, our unique ability to execute with excellence, and our proven strategy. The four pillars of that strategy—Specialization, Globalization, Commercial Excellence and Operational Excellence transformed our company, and they continue to guide our actions and decisions today. Strategy is important. Strategy matters. But excellence in execution is even more critical—and it’s a hallmark of our success. I’d like to review just some of the many ways we executed with excellence in 2014. SPECIALIZATION Our mix of specialty-generated operating income is at its highest level in history. With 65 percent of our OI generated from specialty solutions—compared to just 2 percent in 2005—it truly exempliﬁes just how far we’ve come in our transformation from the volume-driven, commodity-focused company of the past. We are no longer a compounder; we are a material science company that formulates technical polymer solutions and provides value- added services that helps our customers succeed. Our success with Specialization reﬂects the importance we place on innovation. One measure of success we use is our Vitality Index, which shows the percentage of our specialty sales generated from solutions introduced in the last ﬁve years. In 2014, our Vitality Index reached a world-class level of 44 percent. This validates that our portfolio is fresh, unique and early in its lifecycle—with strong upside to generate future growth. What’s more, is that we are committed to further building our pipeline of new innovations through our Phased Oﬀering Launch process, a proprietary means through which we take new solution ideas from concept to commercialization. GLOBALIZATION Our approach to Globalization remains clear. We know that by growing and utilizing our expansive network and infrastructure, we are able to serve the world’s largest and most global customers with consistent, specialized materials and exceptional service wherever they need us to. A great example is in Pune, India, where we celebrated the opening of a new state-of-the-art facility that includes laboratories and manufacturing dedicated to color and additive solutions. In Shanghai, China we announced plans for a new Innovation Center to facilitate collaboration, accelerate application development and increase speed-to-market for specialty solutions in the Asia Paciﬁc region. We continue to grow in this important market, where last year we achieved record revenue and proﬁtability. In Europe, we delivered 34 percent adjusted operating income growth, despite challenging and pervasive macro-economic headwinds. While the challenges in Europe and the situation in Russia and Ukraine may persist, we will continue to monitor and take precautionary measures, minimize our exposure, and perform despite the uncertainties. COMMERCIAL EXCELLENCE Nothing pleases us more than helping our customers succeed, and when it comes to serving them, we always expect to be number one. Second place isn’t good enough. In 2014, we received many awards and recognitions in a wide range of topics from M&A to community relations. Yet the awards we cherish the most are those granted to us by our customers. For example, last year we were honored to receive the “Product Innovation— Global Supplier of the Year” award from Becton, Dickinson and Company; the inaugural “Supplier Excellence Award” from Quality Synthetic Rubber (QSR) and Qure Medical; and the “Supplier of the Year” award from AMA Plastics. Our approach to Commercial Excellence is now well engrained in our businesses, and we are making strong progress as we transform the commercial organization of the legacy Spartech as well. We’ve trained our sales force in customer centric selling, EVE tools, and utilization of our CRM resources—and we continue to leverage our internal expertise to cross-train and cross-sell as our integration eﬀorts continue. OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE In another key milestone in our integration of Spartech, we completed the previously announced North American asset realignment and continue to focus on making improvements in quality, service and delivery at the impacted facilities. Lean Six Sigma is the lifeblood of formal process improvement at PolyOne. More than 2,700 of our associates are trained on the methodology, and our approach to process improvement pervades our global organization. Our “safety ﬁrst” mindset and culture were reﬂected in an incident rate of 0.84, an improvement of 13 percent compared to 2013. Our safety performance is ﬁve times better than the Plastics and Rubber Manufacturing Industry average of 4.4, and as new members of the American Chemistry Council, we are implementing its Responsible Care Management System® to further drive continual improvement in workplace safety. Our working capital performance improved to 9.9 percent of sales, and we were recognized for the fourth year in a row in the CFO/REL Working Capital Scorecard as “Best in Industry.” Other third-party accolades we earned last year included being ranked among the 50 Best Manufacturing Companies by IndustryWeek Magazine, and winning the “2014 Best Emerging Maintenance Reliability Program Award” from Uptime® Magazine. FINANCIAL RESULTS Our strategy, when executed with excellence, delivers ﬁnancial performance expected from a specialty growth company. Adjusted earnings per share have never been higher, and our ﬁve-year Total Shareholder Return of 430 percent quantiﬁes our exceptional performance. As a result of the rapid growth in our earnings, in 2014 we increased our dividend 25 percent, which is now 250 percent higher than when we initiated it in 2011. We also bought back 6.3 million shares of our stock. Going forward, we expect to continue to deliver for our shareholders through share price appreciation, share repurchases and increasing dividends. OUR FOUNDATION—POLYONE ASSOCIATES Performance like ours is only possible with a passionate and innovative workforce dedicated to helping our customers succeed. At PolyOne we have just that—6,900 global associates working each day to execute our proven strategy and uphold our core values. Our team continues to strengthen, and we are building a world-class sustainable organization that thrives on, expects and delivers exceptional results. A PLATINUM VISION FOR THE FUTURE While no doubt a successful year, 2014 is history. We are now using our momentum to make 2015 even better. We’ve made great progress and have already achieved many of the 2015 goals we set for ourselves three years ago. Yet at PolyOne, we’re always asking ourselves, “what’s next?” Five years ago few would have predicted where we are today. And despite our remarkable transformation and what our scorecard currently shows, there is much more to come. We’re deﬁning our own future—one in which we expect to take PolyOne from gold to platinum. At the heart of this movement, we will elevate our rigorous and strategic focus on innovation to even greater heights. Our associates and customers will collaborate as a natural course of business, bringing to life new solutions that improve our customers’ product performance and bolster their bottom line. Our platinum vision will include unprecedented expectations of ourselves and bold performance targets we will strive to achieve. With our balance sheet strength, global infrastructure, culture of innovation, ability to execute and outstanding management team, we have limitless potential. And translation of that potential into future growth is already well underway! In closing, I would like to ﬁrst thank our dedicated customers, for choosing PolyOne as a partner for their material science and services needs. Thank you to our shareholders for your trust in PolyOne’s ability to deliver and grow. I am thankful to our diverse and talented Board of Directors for their ongoing support and guidance. And ﬁnally, I thank and congratulate our global associates for all they accomplished to make 2014 the best year in company history. I am inspired by them and look forward to making 2015 our best year ever! Robert M. Patterson President and Chief Executive Oﬃcer March 16, 2015 44 Annual Report 2014 PROOF OF PERFORMANCE Our values, strategy, and execution are clearly evident in our ﬁnancial performance. Operating Income Mix Shift*^ Adjusted Earnings Per Share°† Working Capital % of SalesΔ 100 80 60 40 20 0 % o f O p e r a t i n g I n c o m e 2.00 1.60 1.20 .80 .40 0 $ U S D o l l a r s 20 16 12 8 4 0 P e r c e n t a g e '07 '08 '09 '10 '11 '12 '13 '14 '06 '07 '08 '09 '10 '11 '12 '13 '14 '05 '06 '07 '08 '09 '10 '11 '12 '13 '14 SPECIALTY DISTRIBUTION PP&S JV's *Operating Income excludes Corporate charges and special items °EPS excluding special items and income from equity afﬁliates ^2005–2009 has not been restated for subsequent changes in accounting principles or discontinued operations †2006–2009 has not been restated for subsequent changes in accounting principles or discontinued operations ΔDeﬁned as the average thirteen months of accounts receivable, plus inventory, less accounts payable divided by full year sales STOCK PERFORMANCE PolyOne’s stock performance has signiﬁcantly outpaced the S&P 500 index and the S&P Mid Cap Chemicals index. Stock Performance vs. S&P POL S&P MID CAP CHEMICALS S&P 500 P e r c e n t a g e 500 450 400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 -50 12.31.09 DATE 6.30.10 12.31.10 6.30.11 12.31.11 6.30.12 12.31.12 6.30.13 12.31.13 6.30.14 12.31.14 TARGETS FOR GROWTH Last year, we continued to pursue the aggressive 2015 performance targets established in 2012. Operating Income % Specialty: • Global Color, Additives & Inks • Global Specialty Engineered Materials • Designed Structures & Solutions Performance Products & Solutions Distribution Specialty Platform % of Operating Income ROIC* Adjusted EPS Growth 2006 (Where we were) 1.7% 1.1% 1.4% (2012) 5.5% 2.6% 6.0% 5.0% N/A *ROIC is deﬁned as TTM adjusted OI divided by the sum of average debt and equity over a 5 quarter period 5 2014 (Where we are) 2015 TARGET (Established 2012) 14.7% 12.1% 7.3% 7.7% 6.1% 65% 11.3% 37% 12%–16% 12%–16% 8%–10% 9%–12% 6%–7.5% 65%–75% 15% Double Digit Expansion United States Securities and Exchange Commission Washington, DC 20549 FORM 10-K Í ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014 ‘ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the transition period from to . Commission file number 1-16091 PolyOne Corporation (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) Ohio (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) 33587 Walker Road, Avon Lake, Ohio (Address of principal executive offices) 34-1730488 (IRS Employer Identification No.) 44012 (Zip Code) Registrant’s telephone number, including area code (440) 930-1000 Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: Title of each class Common Shares, par value $.01 per share Name of each exchange on which registered New York Stock Exchange Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes Í No ‘ Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ‘ No Í Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes Í No ‘ Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. Í Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes Í No ‘ Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one): Large accelerated filer Í Accelerated filer ‘ Non-accelerated filer ‘ Smaller reporting company ‘ Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ‘ No Í The aggregate market value of the registrant’s outstanding common shares held by non-affiliates on June 30, 2014, determined using a per share closing price on that date of $42.14, as quoted on the New York Stock Exchange, was $3.7 billion. (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) The number of shares of common shares outstanding as of January 31, 2015 was 89,100,439. DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K incorporates by reference certain information from the registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement with respect to the 2015 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. POLYONE CORPORATION [THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK] PART I CAUTIONARY NOTE ON FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS In this Annual Report on Form 10-K, statements that are not reported financial results or other information are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities historical Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements give current expectations or forecasts of future events and are not guarantees of future performance. They are based on management’s expectations that involve a number of business risks and uncertainties, any of which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by the forward-looking statements. You can identify these statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historic or current facts. They use words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe” and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with any discussion of future operating or financial performance and/or sales. In particular, these include statements relating to future actions; prospective changes in raw material costs, product pricing or product demand; future performance; estimated capital expenditures; results of current and anticipated market conditions and market strategies; sales efforts; expenses; the outcome of contingencies such as legal proceedings; and financial results. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those implied by these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • the effect on foreign operations of currency fluctuations, tariffs and other political, economic and regulatory risks; changes in polymer consumption growth rates and laws and regulations regarding the disposal of plastic materials where we conduct business; changes in global industry capacity or in the rate at which anticipated changes in industry capacity come online in the industries in which we participate; fluctuations in raw material prices, quality and supply, and in energy prices and supply; production outages or material costs associated with scheduled or unscheduled maintenance programs; unanticipated developments that could occur with respect to contingencies such as litigation and environmental matters, including any developments that would require any increase in our costs and/or reserves for such contingencies; an inability to achieve or delays in achieving or achievement of less than the anticipated financial benefit from initiatives related to working capital reductions, cost reductions and employee productivity goals; an inability to raise or sustain prices for products or services; an inability to maintain appropriate relations with unions and employees; the speed and extent of an economic recovery, including the recovery of the housing markets; the financial condition of our customers, including the ability of customers (especially those that may be highly leveraged and those with inadequate liquidity) to maintain their credit availability; disruptions, uncertainty or volatility in the credit markets that may limit our access to capital; other factors affecting our business beyond our control, including, without limitation, changes in the general economy, changes in interest rates and changes in the rate of inflation; the amount and timing of repurchases, if any, of PolyOne common shares; our ability to pay regular quarterly cash dividends and the amounts and timing of any future dividends; our ability to realize anticipated savings and operational benefits from the realignment of assets, including the closure of manufacturing facilities; the timing of closings and shifts of POLYONE CORPORATION 1 production to new facilities related to asset realignments and any unforeseen loss of customers and/or disruptions of service or quality caused by such closings and/or production shifts; separation and severance amounts that differ from original estimates, amounts for non- cash charges related to asset write-offs and accelerated depreciation realignments of property, plant and equipment, that differ from original estimates; • • our ability to identify and evaluate acquisition targets and consummate acquisitions; the ability to successfully integrate acquired companies into our operations, retain the teams of acquired companies, and retain relationships with customers of management acquired companies, limitation, Spartech and Accella Performance Materials; and including, without • other factors described in this Annual Report on Form 10-K under Item 1A, “Risk Factors.” in our plans and assumptions. Achievement of We cannot guarantee that any forward-looking statement will be realized, although we believe we have been prudent to risks, uncertainties and inaccurate assumptions. Should known or unknown risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove inaccurate, actual results could vary materially from those anticipated, estimated or projected. Investors should bear this in mind as they consider forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to publicly update forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law. You are advised, however, to consult any further disclosures we make on related subjects in our reports on Forms 10-Q, 8-K and 10-K furnished to the SEC. You should understand that it is not possible to predict or identify all risk factors. Consequently, you should not consider any such list to be a complete set of all potential risks or uncertainties. future results is subject ITEM 1. BUSINESS Business Overview We are a premier provider of specialized polymer materials, services and solutions with operations in specialty polymer formulations, color and additive systems, plastic sheet and packaging solutions and polymer distribution. We are also a highly specialized developer and manufacturer of performance enhancing additives, liquid colorants and fluoropolymers and silicone colorants. Headquartered in Avon Lake, Ohio, we have employees at sales, manufacturing and distribution facilities in North America, South America, Europe, Asia and Africa. We provide value to our customers through our ability to link our knowledge of polymers and formulation technology with our manufacturing and supply chain capabilities to provide value added solutions to designers, assemblers and processors of plastics (our customers). When used in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the terms “we,” “us,” “our”, “PolyOne” and the “Company” mean PolyOne Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries. PolyOne was formed on August 31, 2000 from the consolidation of The Geon Company (Geon) and M.A. Hanna Company (Hanna). Geon’s roots date back to 1927 when BFGoodrich scientist Waldo Semon produced the first usable vinyl polymer. In 1948, BFGoodrich created a vinyl plastic division that was subsequently spun off through a public offering in 1993, creating Geon, a separate publicly- held company. Hanna was formed in 1885 as a privately-held company and became publicly-held in 1927. In the mid-1980s, Hanna began to divest its historic mining and shipping businesses to focus on polymers. Hanna purchased its first polymer company in 1986 and completed its 26th polymer company acquisition in 2000. PolyOne Corporation is incorporated in Ohio and headquartered in Avon Lake, Ohio. We employ approximately 6,900 people and have 75 manufacturing sites and eight distribution facilities in North America, South America, Europe and Asia. We offer more than 35,000 polymer solutions to over 10,000 customers across the globe. In 2014, we had sales of $3.8 billion, 32% of which were to customers outside the United States. 2 POLYONE CORPORATION We provide value to our customers with solutions built upon our ability to leverage our polymer and formulation expertise with our operational capabilities, being the essential link between large chemical producers (our raw material suppliers) and designers, assemblers and processors of plastics (our customers). We believe that our role in the value chain continues to become more essential as our customers need reliable suppliers with global reach and more effective solutions to improve their profitability and competitive advantage. Our goal is to provide our customers with specialized materials and service solutions through our global reach, broad market knowledge, technical expertise, product breadth, efficient manufacturing operations, a fully integrated information technology network, and raw material procurement leverage. Our end markets are primarily in transportation, packaging, building and construction, industrial, healthcare, consumer, wire and cable, electrical and electronics, and appliance. Polymer Industry Overview in their most basic forms. Large petrochemical companies, Polymers are a class of organic materials that are generally produced by converting natural gas or crude oil derivatives into monomers, such as ethylene, propylene, vinyl chloride and styrene. These monomers are then polymerized into chains called polymers, or plastic resin, such as polyethylene and polypropylene, including some in the petroleum industry, produce a majority of the monomers and base resins because they have direct access to the raw materials needed for production. Monomers make up the majority of the variable cost of manufacturing the base resin. As a result, the cost of a base resin tends to move in tandem with the industry market prices for monomers and the cost of raw materials and energy used during production. Resin selling prices can move in tandem with costs, but are largely driven by supply and demand. Thermoplastic polymers make up a substantial majority of the resin market and are characterized by their ability to be reshaped repeatedly into new forms after heat and pressure are applied. Thermoplastics offer versatility and a wide range of applications. The major types of thermoplastics include polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyester and a range of specialized engineering resins. Each type of thermoplastic has unique qualities and characteristics that make it appropriate for use in a particular application. Thermoplastic composites include these base resins, but are combined with a structural filler such as glass, carbon or polymer fibers to enhance strength, rigidity and structure. Further performance can be delivered through an engineered thermoplastic sheet or thick film, which may incorporate more than one resin formulation or composite in multiple layers to impart additional properties such as gas barrier, structural integrity and lightweighting. flooring, Thermoplastic and polymer composites are found in a variety of end-use products and markets, including packaging, building and construction, wire and cable, transportation, medical, furniture and furnishings, durable goods, electrical and electronics, adhesives, inks and coatings. Each type of thermoplastic resin has unique characteristics (such as flexibility, strength or durability) suitable for use in a particular end-use application. The packaging industry requires plastics that help keep food fresh and free of contamination while providing a variety of options for product display, and offering advantages in terms of weight and user-friendliness. In the building and construction industry, plastic provides an economical and energy efficient replacement for other traditional materials in piping applications, siding, insulation, windows and doors, as well as structural and interior or decorative uses. In the wire and cable industry, thermoplastics serve to protect by providing electrical insulation, flame resistance, durability, water resistance, and color coding to wire coatings and connectors. In the transportation industry, plastic has proven to be durable, lightweight and corrosion resistant while offering fuel savings, design flexibility and high performance, often replacing traditional materials such as metal and glass. In the medical industry, plastics are used for a vast array of devices and equipment, including blood and intravenous bags, medical tubing, catheters, lead replacement for radiation shielding, clamps and connectors to bed frames, curtains and sheeting, electronic enclosures and equipment housings. In the electronics industry, plastic enclosures and connectors not only enhance safety through electrical insulation, but thermally and electrically conductive plastics provide shielding heat performance for critical applications including integrated circuit chip packaging. cooling, antistatic, electrostatic discharge, and electromagnetic transferring, POLYONE CORPORATION 3 Various additives can be formulated with a base resin and further engineered into a structure to provide them with greater versatility and performance. Polymer formulations and structures have advantages over metals, wood, rubber, glass and other traditional materials, which have resulted in the replacement of these materials across a wide spectrum of applications that range from automobile parts to construction materials. These specialized polymers offer advantages compared to traditional materials that include design freedom, processability, weight reduction, chemical resistance, flame retardance and lower cost. Plastics are renowned for their durability, aesthetics, ease of handling and recyclability. PolyOne Segments We operate in five reportable segments: (1) Global Color, Additives and Inks; (2) Global Specialty Engineered Materials; (3) Designed Structures and Solutions; (4) Performance Products and Solutions; and (5) PolyOne Distribution. On December 1, 2014, the Company completed the acquisition of specialty assets of Accella Performance Materials (Accella). The Accella acquisition complements the existing specialty business portfolio by providing specialty coating solutions and value-added services in a wide-range of applications, interior and under-the-hood automotive parts, outdoor including consumer products, recreational equipment and food packaging. On May 30, 2013, we sold our vinyl dispersion, blending and suspension resin assets (Resin Business) to Mexichem Specialty Resins Inc. (Mexichem). As a result of the sale, the Resin Business has been removed from the Performance Products and Solutions segment and is presented as a discontinued operation in all periods presented. On March 13, 2013, PolyOne acquired Spartech Corporation (Spartech), a supplier of sustainable plastic sheet, color and engineered materials, and packaging solutions, based in Clayton, Missouri. The acquisition of Spartech has provided substantial synergies through enhanced operational cost efficiencies and has expanded PolyOne’s specialty portfolio. Spartech’s results have been reflected within our Consolidated Statements of Income and within our Designed Structures and Solutions segment, as well as within our Global Specialty Engineered Materials, Global Color, Additives and Inks and Performance Products and Solutions segments, since the date of acquisition. Our segments are further discussed in Note 16, Segment Information. Global Color, Additives and Inks the demands of Global Color, Additives and Inks is a leading provider of specialized custom color and additive concentrates in solid and liquid form for thermoplastics, dispersions for thermosets, as well as specialty inks, plastisols, and vinyl slush molding solutions. Color and additive solutions include an innovative array of colors, special effects and performance-enhancing and eco-friendly solutions. When combined with a non-base resin, our solutions help customers achieve differentiated specialized colors and today’s highly design-oriented consumer and industrial end effects targeted at markets. Our additive concentrates encompass a wide variety of performance and process enhancing they perform, such as UV characteristics and are commonly categorized by the function that stabilization, antimicrobial, anti-static, blowing or foaming, antioxidant, lubricant, and productivity enhancement. Our colorant and additives concentrates are used in a broad range of polymers, including those used in medical and pharmaceutical devices, food packaging, personal care and cosmetics, transportation, building products, wire and cable markets. We also provide custom- formulated liquid systems that meet a variety of customer needs and chemistries, including vinyl, natural rubber and latex, polyurethane and silicone. Our offering also includes proprietary inks and latexes for diversified markets such as recreational and athletic apparel, construction and filtration, outdoor furniture and healthcare. Our liquid polymer coatings and additives are largely based on vinyl 4 POLYONE CORPORATION and are used in a variety of markets, including building and construction, consumer, healthcare, industrial, packaging, textiles, appliances, transportation, and wire and cable. Global Color, Additives and Inks has manufacturing, sales and service facilities located throughout North America, South America, Europe, Asia and Africa. On December 1, 2014, the Company completed the acquisition of specialty assets of Accella, a leading North American manufacturer of liquid polymer formulations, for $47.2 million in cash, net of cash acquired. Accella results are included within the Global Color, Additives and Inks segment. Global Specialty Engineered Materials Global Specialty Engineered Materials is a leading provider of specialty polymer formulations, services and solutions for designers, assemblers and processors of thermoplastic materials across a wide variety of markets and end-use applications. Our product portfolio, which we believe to be one of the most diverse in our industry, includes specialty formulated high-performance polymer materials that are manufactured using thermoplastic resins and elastomers, which are then combined with advanced polymer additives, reinforcement, filler, colorant and/or biomaterial technologies. Our technical and market expertise enables us to expand the performance range and structural properties of traditional engineering-grade thermoplastic resins to meet evolving customer needs. Global Specialty Engineered Materials has manufacturing, sales and service facilities located throughout North America, Europe, Asia and South America. Our product development and application reach is further enhanced by the capabilities of our Innovation Centers in the United States, Germany and China, which produce and evaluate prototype and sample parts to help assess end-use performance and guide product development. Our manufacturing capabilities are targeted at meeting our customers’ demand for speed, flexibility and critical quality. Designed Structures and Solutions On March 13, 2013, the Company completed the acquisition of Spartech, a supplier of plastic sheet, color and engineered materials, and packaging solutions. As a result of the acquisition, a new reportable segment, “Designed Structures and Solutions”, was created. Designed Structures and Solutions is comprised of the former Spartech Custom Sheet and Rollstock and Packaging Technologies businesses. We believe PolyOne’s Designed Structures and Solutions segment is a market leader in providing specialized, full service and innovative solutions in engineered polymer structures, rigid barrier packaging and specialty cast acrylics. We utilize a variety of polymers, specialty additives and processing technologies to produce a complete portfolio of sheet, custom rollstock and specialty film, laminate and acrylic solutions. Our solutions can be engineered to provide structural or functional performance in an application or deliver design and visual aesthetics to meet our customers’ needs. Our offerings also include a wide range of sustainable, cost-effective stock and custom packaging solutions for various industry processes used in the food, medical, consumer and graphic arts markets. In addition to packaging, we also work closely with customers to provide solutions for transportation, building and construction, healthcare and consumer markets. Designed Structures and Solutions has manufacturing, sales and service facilities located throughout North America. Performance Products and Solutions Performance Products and Solutions is comprised of the Geon Performance Materials (Geon) and Producer Services business units. The Geon business delivers an array of products and services for vinyl molding and extrusion processors located in North America and Asia. The Geon brand name carries strong recognition globally. Geon’s products are sold to manufacturers of durable plastic parts and consumer-oriented products. We also offer a wide range of services including materials testing, component analysis, custom formulation development, colorant and additive services, part design assistance, structural analysis, process simulations, mold design and flow analysis and extruder screw design. Vinyl is used across a broad range of markets and applications, including, but not limited to: POLYONE CORPORATION 5 healthcare, wire and cable, building and construction, consumer and recreational products and transportation and packaging. The Producer Services business unit offers contract manufacturing and outsourced polymer manufacturing services to resin producers and polymer marketers, primarily in the United States and Mexico, as well as its own proprietary compounds for pressure pipe and drip irrigation applications. As a strategic and integrated supply chain partner, Producer Services offers resin producers a way to develop custom products for niche markets by using our process technology expertise and multiple manufacturing platforms. PolyOne Distribution The PolyOne Distribution business distributes more than 3,500 grades of engineering and commodity grade resins, including PolyOne-produced solutions, principally to the North American and Asian markets. These products are sold to over 6,000 custom injection molders and extruders who, in turn, convert them into plastic parts that are sold to end-users in a wide range of industries. Representing over 25 major suppliers, we offer our customers a broad product portfolio, just-in-time delivery from multiple stocking locations and local technical support. Recent expansion in Central America and Asia have bolstered PolyOne Distribution’s ability to serve the specialized needs of customers globally. Competition The production of plastics and the manufacturing of custom and proprietary formulated color and additives systems for the plastics industry are highly competitive. Competition is based on service, performance, product innovation, product recognition, speed, delivery, quality and price. The relative importance of these factors varies among our products and services. We believe that we are the largest independent formulator of plastic materials and producer of custom and proprietary color and additive systems in the United States and Europe, with a growing presence in Asia and South America. Our competitors range from large international companies with broad product offerings to local independent custom producers whose focus is a specific market niche or product offering. The distribution of polymer resin is also highly competitive. Speed, service, reputation, product line, factors affecting competition. We brand recognition, delivery, quality and price, are the principal compete against other national independent resin distributors in North America, along with other regional distributors. Growth in the polymer distribution market is directly correlated with growth in the base polymer resins market. We believe that the strength of our company name and reputation, the broad range of product offerings from our suppliers and our speed and responsiveness, coupled with the quality of products and agility of our distribution network, allow us to compete effectively. Raw Materials The primary raw materials used by our manufacturing operations are polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin, polyolefin and other thermoplastic resins, plasticizers, inorganic and organic pigments, all of which we believe are in adequate supply. We have a long-term supply contract with Oxy Vinyls LP, a former equity investment affiliate, under which the majority of our PVC resin is supplied. This contract contains a year-by-year evergreen renewal provision, unless terminated by either party with a one-year advance notice. We believe this contract assures the availability of adequate amounts of PVC resin. We also believe that the pricing under this contract provides PVC resins to us at a competitive cost. See the discussion of risks associated with raw material supply and costs in Item 1A, “Risk Factors”. Patents and Trademarks We own and maintain a number of patents and trademarks in the United States and other key countries that contribute to our competitiveness in the markets we serve because they protect our inventions and product names against infringement by others. Patents exist for 20 years from filing date, and trademarks have an indefinite life based upon continued use. While we view our patents and 6 POLYONE CORPORATION trademarks to be valuable because of the broad scope of our products and services and brand recognition we enjoy, we do not believe that the loss or expiration of any single patent or trademark would have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position or cash flows. Nevertheless, we have implemented management processes designed to protect our inventions and trademarks. Seasonality and Backlog Sales of our products and services are slightly seasonal as demand is generally slower in the first and fourth calendar quarters of the year. Because of the nature of our business, we do not believe that our backlog is a meaningful indicator of the level of our present or future business. Working Capital Practices Our products are generally manufactured with a short turnaround time, and the scheduling of manufacturing activities from customer orders generally includes enough lead time to assure delivery of an adequate supply of raw materials. We offer payment terms to our customers that are competitive. We generally allow our customers to return merchandise if pre-agreed quality standards or specifications are not met; however, we employ quality assurance practices that seek to minimize customer returns. Our customer returns are immaterial. Significant Customers No customer accounted for more than 2% of our consolidated revenues in 2014, and we do not believe we would suffer a material adverse effect if we were to lose any single customer. Research and Development We have substantial technology and development capabilities. Our efforts are largely devoted to developing new product formulations to satisfy defined market needs, by providing quality technical services to evaluate alternative raw materials, assuring the continued success of our products for customer applications, providing technology to improve our products, processes and applications, and providing support to our manufacturing plants for cost reduction, productivity and quality improvement programs. We operate research and development centers that support our commercial development activities and manufacturing operations. These facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art analytical, synthesis, polymer characterization and testing equipment, along with pilot plants and polymer manufacturing operations that simulate specific production processes that allow us to rapidly translate new technologies into new products. Our investment in product research and development from continuing operations was $53.4 million in 2014, $52.6 million in 2013 and $41.3 million in 2012. Methods of Distribution We sell products primarily through direct sales personnel, distributors, including our PolyOne Distribution segment, and commissioned sales agents. We primarily use truck carriers to transport our products to customers, although some customers pick up product at our manufacturing facilities or warehouses. We also ship some of our manufactured products to customers by rail. Employees As of December 31, 2014, we employed approximately 6,900 people. Approximately 5% of our employees are represented by labor unions under collective bargaining agreements. We believe that relations with our employees are good, and we do not anticipate significant operating issues to occur as a result of current negotiations, or when we renegotiate collective bargaining agreements as they expire. POLYONE CORPORATION 7 Environmental, Health and Safety We are subject to various environmental laws and regulations that apply to the production, use and sale of chemicals, emissions into the air, discharges into waterways and other releases of materials into the environment and the generation, handling, storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste material. We endeavor to ensure the safe and lawful operation of our facilities in the manufacture and distribution of products, and we believe we are in material compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. We maintain a disciplined environmental and occupational safety and health compliance program and conduct periodic internal and external regulatory audits at our facilities to identify and categorize potential environmental exposures, including compliance matters and any actions that may be required to address. This effort can result in process or operational modifications, the installation of pollution control devices or cleaning up grounds or facilities. We believe that we are in material compliance with all applicable requirements. We are strongly committed to safety as evidenced by our injury incidence rate of 0.84 per 100 full-time workers per year in 2014, compared to 0.97 in 2013. The 2013 average injury incidence rate for our NAICS Code (326 Plastics and Rubber Products Manufacturing) was 4.4. In our operations, we must comply with product-related governmental law and regulations affecting the plastics industry generally and also with content-specific law, regulations and non-governmental standards. We believe that compliance with current governmental laws and regulations and with non- governmental content-specific standards will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. The risk of additional costs and liabilities, however, is inherent in certain plant operations and certain products produced at these plants, as is the case with other companies in the plastics industry. Therefore, we may incur additional costs or liabilities in the future. Other developments, such as increasingly strict environmental, safety and health laws, regulations and related enforcement policies, including those under the Restrictions on the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances (RoHS), Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (covering Conflict Minerals), and the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, the implementation of additional content-specific standards, discovery of unknown conditions, and claims for damages to property, persons or natural resources resulting from plant emissions or products, could also result in additional costs or liabilities. A number of foreign countries and domestic communities have enacted, or are considering enacting, laws and regulations concerning the use and disposal of plastic materials. Widespread adoption of these laws and regulations, along with public perception, may have an adverse impact on sales of plastic materials. Although many of our major markets are in durable, longer-life applications that could reduce the impact of these kinds of environmental regulations, more stringent regulation of the use and disposal of plastics may have an adverse effect on our business. We have been notified by federal and state environmental agencies and by private parties that we may be a potentially responsible party (PRP) in connection with their investigation and remediation of a number of environmental sites. While government agencies assert that PRPs are jointly and severally liable at these sites, in our experience, interim and final allocations of liability costs are generally made based on the relative contribution of waste. However, even when allocations of costs based on relative contribution of waste have been made, we cannot assure that our allocation will not increase if other PRPs do not pay their allocated share of these costs. We incurred environmental expenses, before insurance recoveries, of $10.3 million in 2014, $61.2 million in 2013 and $12.8 million in 2012. Our environmental expense in 2014, 2013 and 2012 related mostly to ongoing remediation projects. 2013 expense included a $47.0 million adjustment to our Calvert City reserve, which is discussed further in Note 13, Commitments and Contingencies. In 2014 respectively, as and 2013, we received insurance recoveries $3.7 million and $23.5 million, reimbursement of previously incurred environmental remediation costs. 8 POLYONE CORPORATION We also conduct investigations and remediation at certain of our active and inactive facilities and have assumed responsibility for the resulting environmental liabilities from operations at sites we, or our predecessors, formerly owned or operated. We believe that our potential continuing liability at these sites will not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position or cash In addition, we voluntarily initiate corrective and preventive environmental projects at our flows. facilities. As of December 31, 2014, our reserves totaled $121.1 million, covering probable future environmental expenditures that we can reasonably estimate related to previously contaminated sites. This amount represents our best estimate of probable costs, based upon the information and technology currently available. the ultimate remediation alternatives undertaken, Depending upon the results of is changes in regulations, new information, newly discovered conditions and other reasonably possible that we could incur additional costs in excess of the amount accrued at December 31, 2014. Such costs, if any, cannot be currently estimated. We may revise our estimate of this liability as new regulations or technologies are developed, or additional information is obtained. future testing, factors, it Refer to Note 13, Commitments and Contingencies, for further discussion of our environmental liabilities. We expect 2015 environmental cash expenditures to approximate $11.5 million. International Operations including currency fluctuations and Our international operations are subject to a variety of risks, devaluations, exchange controls, currency restrictions and changes in local economic conditions. While the impact of these risks is difficult to predict, any one or more of them could adversely affect our future operations. For more information about our international operations, see Note 16, Segment Information, to the accompanying consolidated financial statements, which is incorporated by reference into this Item 1. Where You Can Find Additional Information Our principal executive offices are located at 33587 Walker Road, Avon Lake, Ohio 44012, and our telephone number is (440) 930-1000. We are subject to the information reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, and, in accordance with these requirements, we file annual, quarterly and other reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC relating to our business, financial results and other matters. The reports, proxy statements and other information we file may be inspected and copied at prescribed rates at the SEC’s Public Reference Room and via the SEC’s website (see below for more information). You may inspect a copy of the reports, proxy statements and other information we file with the SEC, without charge, at the SEC’s Public Reference Room, 100 F Street, N.E., Room 1580, Washington, D.C. 20549, and you may obtain copies of the reports, proxy statements and other information we file with the SEC, from those offices for a fee. You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. Our filings are available to the public at the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. Our Internet address is www.polyone.com. Our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of free of charge, on our website (www.polyone.com, select Investors and then SEC Edgar filings) or upon written request, as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file or furnish them to the SEC. The contents of our website are not part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and the reference to our website does not constitute incorporation by reference into this Form 10-K of the information contained at that site. the Exchange Act are available, POLYONE CORPORATION 9 ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS The following are certain risk factors that could affect our business, results of operations, financial position or cash flows. These risk factors should be considered along with the forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K because these factors could cause our actual results or financial condition to differ materially from those projected in forward-looking statements. The following discussion is not an all-inclusive listing of risks, although we believe these are the more material risks that we face. If any of the following occur, our business, results of operations, financial position or cash flows could be adversely affected. Demand for and supply of our products and services may be adversely affected by several factors, some of which we cannot predict or control. Several factors may affect the demand for and supply of our products and services, including: • • • • • • • economic downturns in the significant end markets that we serve; product obsolescence or technological changes that unfavorably alter the value/cost proposition of our products and services; competition from existing and unforeseen polymer and non-polymer based products; declines in general economic conditions or reductions in industrial production growth rates, both domestically and globally, which could impact our customers’ ability to pay amounts owed to us; changes in environmental regulations that would limit our ability to sell our products and services in specific markets; changes in laws and regulations regarding the disposal of plastic materials; and inability to obtain raw materials or supply products to customers due to factors such as supplier work stoppages, supply shortages, plant outages or regulatory changes that may limit or prohibit overland transportation of certain hazardous materials and exogenous factors, like severe weather. If any of these events occur, the demand for and supply of our products and services could suffer. Our manufacturing operations are subject to hazards and other risks associated with polymer production and the related storage and transportation of raw materials, products and wastes. The hazards and risks our manufacturing operations are subject to include, but are not limited to: • explosions, fires, inclement weather and natural disasters; • mechanical failure resulting in protracted or short duration unscheduled downtime; • • • • regulatory changes that affect or limit the transportation of raw materials; inability to obtain or maintain any required licenses or permits; interruptions and environmental hazards such as chemical spills, discharges or releases of toxic or hazardous substances or gases into the environment or workplace; and storage tank leaks or other issues resulting from remedial activities. The occurrence of any of these operating problems at our facilities may have a material adverse effect on the productivity and profitability of a particular manufacturing or distribution facility or on our operations as a whole, during and after the period of these operating difficulties. These operating problems may also cause personal injury and loss of life, customer attrition and severe damage to or destruction of property and equipment and environmental damage. We are subject to present claims and potential future claims with respect to workplace exposure, workers’ compensation and other matters. Our property and casualty insurance, which we believe is of the types and in the amounts that are customary for the industry, may not fully insure us against all potential hazards that are incident to our business or otherwise could occur. 10 POLYONE CORPORATION Extensive environmental, health and safety laws and regulations impact our operations and assets. Our operations on, and ownership of, real property are subject to extensive environmental, health and levels. The nature of our safety laws and regulations at the national, state and local governmental business exposes us to compliance costs and risks of liability under these laws and regulations due to the production, storage, transportation, recycling or disposal and/or sale of materials that can cause contamination and other harm to the environment or personal injury if they are improperly handled and released. Environmental compliance requirements on us and our vendors may significantly increase the costs of these activities involving raw materials, energy, finished products and wastes. We may incur substantial costs, including fines, criminal or civil sanctions, damages, remediation costs or experience interruptions in our operations for violations of these laws. We also conduct investigations and remediation at some of our active and inactive facilities and have assumed responsibility or have been assessed responsibility for environmental liabilities at sites formerly owned or operated by our predecessors or by us. Also, federal and state environmental statutes impose strict, and under some circumstances, liability for the cost of investigations and remedial actions on any company that generated waste, arranged for disposal of the waste, transported the waste to the disposal site or selected the disposal site, as well as the owners and operators of these sites. Any or all of the responsible parties may be required to bear all of the costs of clean up, regardless of fault or legality of the waste disposal or ownership of the site, and may also be subject to liability for natural resource damages. We have been notified by federal and state environmental agencies and private parties that we may be a potentially responsible party in connection with certain sites. We may incur substantial costs for some of these sites. It is possible that we will be identified as a potentially responsible party at more sites in the future, which could result in our being assessed substantial investigation or cleanup costs. joint and several We may also incur additional costs and liabilities as a result of increasingly strict environmental, safety and health laws, regulations and related enforcement policies, restrictions on the use of lead and phthalates under the Restrictions on the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances and the Consumer Product Safety Information Act of 2008, and restrictions on greenhouse gases emissions. The European Union has adopted REACH, a legislative act to cover Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals. The goal of this legislation, which became effective in June 2007, is to minimize risk to human health and to the environment by regulating the use of chemicals. As these regulations evolve, we will endeavor to remain in compliance with REACH, and similar regulations across the globe. We accrue costs for environmental matters that have been identified when it is probable that these costs will be required and when they can be reasonably estimated. However, we may be subject to additional environmental liabilities or potential liabilities that have not been identified. We expect that we will continue to be subject to increasingly stringent environmental, health and safety laws and regulations. We anticipate that compliance with these laws and regulations will continue to require capital expenditures and operating costs. Our operations could be adversely affected by various risks inherent in conducting operations worldwide. As noted above in Item 1, “Business,” we have extensive operations outside of the United States. Revenue from these operations (principally from Canada, Mexico, Europe, South America and Asia) was approximately 32% in 2014, 33% in 2013 and 40% in 2012 of our total revenues. Long-lived assets of our foreign operations represented 29% in 2014, 31% in 2013 and 38% in 2012 of our total long-lived assets. POLYONE CORPORATION 11 International operations are subject to risks, which include, but are not limited to, the following: • • • • • • • • • changes in local government regulations and policies including, but not limited to foreign currency exchange controls or monetary policy, repatriation of earnings, expropriation of property, duty or tariff restrictions, investment limitations and tax policies; political and economic instability and disruptions, including labor unrest, civil strife, acts of war, guerrilla activities, insurrection and terrorism; legislation that regulates the use of chemicals; disadvantages of competing against companies from countries that are not subject U.S. laws and regulations, including the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA); to compliance with international economic sanctions; trade laws and regulations, including export control and difficulties in staffing and managing multi-national operations; limitations on our ability to enforce legal rights and remedies; reduced protection of intellectual property rights; and other risks arising out of foreign sovereignty over the areas where our operations are conducted. jurisdictions generally prohibit companies and their In addition, we could be adversely affected by violations of the FCPA and similar worldwide anti-bribery laws as well as export controls and economic sanction laws. The FCPA and similar anti-bribery laws in other intermediaries from making improper payments to non-U.S. officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. Our policies mandate compliance with these laws. We operate in many parts of the world that have experienced governmental corruption to some degree and, in certain circumstances, strict compliance with anti- bribery laws may conflict with local customs and practices. We cannot assure you that our internal controls and procedures will always protect us from the reckless or criminal acts committed by our employees or agents. If we are found to be liable for FCPA, export control or sanction violations, we could suffer from criminal or civil penalties or other sanctions, including loss of export privileges or authorization needed to conduct aspects of our international business, which could have a material adverse effect on our business. Any of these risks could have an adverse effect on our international operations by reducing the demand for our products. We may not be able to continue to operate in compliance with applicable customs, currency exchange control regulations, transfer pricing regulations or any other laws or regulations that we may be subject to. In addition, these laws or regulations may be modified in the future, and we may not be able to operate in compliance with those modifications. We engage in acquisitions and joint ventures, and may encounter unexpected difficulties integrating those businesses. Attainment of our strategic plan objectives require, in part, strategic acquisitions or joint ventures intended to complement or expand our businesses globally or add product technology that accelerates our specialization strategy, or both. Success will depend on our ability to complete these transactions or arrangements, and integrate the businesses acquired in these transactions as well as develop satisfactory working arrangements with our strategic partners in the joint ventures. Unexpected difficulties in integrating recent and future acquisitions with our existing operations and in managing strategic investments could occur. Furthermore, we may not realize the degree, or timing, of benefits initially anticipated. 12 POLYONE CORPORATION Natural gas, electricity, fuel and raw material costs, and other external factors that are also beyond our control, as well as downturns in the home repair and remodeling and new home sectors of the economy, can cause fluctuations in our margins. The cost of our natural gas, electricity, fuel and raw materials, and other costs, may not correlate with changes in the prices we receive for our products, either in the direction of the price change or in absolute magnitude. Natural gas and raw materials costs represent a substantial part of our manufacturing costs. Most of the raw materials we use are commodities and the price of each can fluctuate widely for a variety of reasons, including changes in availability because of major capacity additions or reductions or significant facility operating problems. Other external factors beyond our control can cause volatility in raw materials prices, demand for our products, product prices, sales volumes and margins. These factors include general economic conditions, the level of business activity in the industries that use our products, competitors’ actions, international events and circumstances, and governmental regulation in the United States and abroad, such as climate change regulation. These factors can also magnify the impact of economic cycles on our business. While we attempt to pass through price increases in energy costs and raw materials there can be no assurance that we can do so in the future. Additionally, our products used in housing, transportation and building and construction markets are impacted by changes in demand in these sectors, which may be significantly affected by changes in economic and other conditions such as gross domestic product levels, demographic trends, legislative actions and consumer confidence. These factors can lower the demand for and pricing of our products. levels, employment We face competition from other polymer companies as well as chemical companies. We encounter competition in price, payment terms, delivery, service, performance, product innovation, product recognition and quality, depending on the product involved. We expect that our competitors will continue to develop and introduce new and enhanced products, which could cause a decline in the market acceptance of our products. In addition, our competitors could cause a reduction in the selling prices of some of our products as a result of intensified price competition. Competitive pressures can also result in the loss of customers. We may also experience increased competition from companies that offer products based on alternative technologies and processes that may cause us to lose customers. Additionally, some of our customers may already be or may become large enough to justify developing in-house production capabilities. Any significant reduction in customer orders as a result of a shift to in-house production could adversely affect our sales and operating profits. A major failure of our information systems could harm our business. We depend on integrated information systems to conduct our business. We may experience operating problems with our information systems as a result of system failures, viruses, computer hackers or other causes. Any significant disruption or slowdown of our systems could cause customers to cancel orders or cause standard business processes to become inefficient or ineffective. Disruptions in the global credit and financial markets could limit our access to credit, which could negatively impact our business. Global credit and financial markets have experienced volatility in recent years, including volatility in securities prices, diminished liquidity and credit availability, declining valuations of certain investments and significant changes in the capital and organizational structures of certain financial institutions. These market conditions may limit our ability to access the capital necessary to grow and maintain our business. Accordingly, we may be forced to delay raising capital, issue shorter tenors than we prefer or pay unattractive interest rates, which could increase our interest expense, decrease our profitability and significantly reduce our financial flexibility. POLYONE CORPORATION 13 Significant movements in foreign currency exchange rates or change in monetary policy may harm our financial results. We are exposed to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. Any significant change in the value of the currencies of the countries in which we do business against the U.S. dollar could affect our ability to sell products competitively and control our cost structure, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. For additional detail related to this risk, see Item 7A, Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk. We also face risks arising from the imposition of exchange controls and currency devaluations. Exchange controls may limit our ability to convert foreign currencies into U.S. dollars or to remit dividends and other payments by our foreign subsidiaries or customers located in or conducting business in a country imposing controls. Currency devaluations diminish the U.S. dollar value of the currency of the country instituting the devaluation and, if they occur or continue for significant periods, could adversely affect our earnings or cash flow. An economic downturn in Europe may have a negative effect on our business and operations. A prolonged economic downturn in Europe may cause a negative effect on our results of operations. Many of our customers, distributors and suppliers have been affected by these economic conditions. Current or potential customers may be unable to fund purchases or may determine to reduce purchases or inventories or may cease to continue in business. In addition, suppliers may not be able to supply us with needed raw materials on a timely basis, may increase prices or go out of business, which could result in our inability to meet customer demand or could affect our gross margins. The agreements governing our debt, including our revolving credit facility and debt securities, contain various covenants that limit our ability to take certain actions and also require us to meet financial maintenance tests, failure to comply with which could have a material adverse effect on us. The agreement governing our senior secured revolving credit facility, and the indentures governing our debt securities, contain a number of customary restrictive covenants that, among other things, limit our ability to: consummate asset sales, incur additional debt or liens, consolidate or merge with any entity or transfer or sell all or substantially all of our assets, pay dividends or make certain other restricted payments, make investments, enter into transactions with affiliates, create dividend or other payment restrictions with respect to subsidiaries, make capital investments and alter the business we conduct. In addition, these agreements require us to comply with specific financial tests, under which we are required to achieve specific financial and operating results. Our ability to comply with these provisions may be affected by events beyond our control. A breach of any of these covenants would result in a default under the agreements. In the event of any default, our lenders could elect to declare all amounts borrowed under the agreements, together with accrued interest thereon, to be due and payable. In such event, we cannot assure that we would have sufficient assets to pay debt then outstanding under the agreements governing our debt. Any future refinancing of the revolving credit facility or debt securities may contain similar restrictive covenants. To service our indebtedness, we will require a significant amount of cash. Our ability to generate cash depends on many factors beyond our control. Our ability to pay interest on our debt and to satisfy our other debt obligations will depend in part upon our future financial and operating performance and that of our subsidiaries and upon our ability to renew or refinance borrowings. Prevailing economic conditions and financial, business, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors, many of which are beyond our control, will affect our ability to make these payments. While we believe that cash flow from our current level of operations, available cash and available borrowings under our revolving credit facilities will provide adequate sources of 14 POLYONE CORPORATION liquidity for at least the next twelve months, a significant drop in operating cash flow resulting from economic conditions, competition or other uncertainties beyond our control could create the need for alternative sources of liquidity. If we are unable to generate sufficient cash flow to meet our debt service obligations, we will have to pursue one or more alternatives, such as reducing or delaying capital or other expenditures, refinancing debt, selling assets, or raising equity capital. We cannot guarantee that our business will generate sufficient cash flow from operations or that future borrowings will be available to us under our revolving credit facilities in an amount sufficient to enable us to pay our indebtedness or to fund our other liquidity needs. We may need to refinance all or a portion of our indebtedness on or before maturity. We cannot guarantee that we will be able to refinance any of our indebtedness, including our revolving credit facilities, on commercially reasonable terms or at all. We have a significant amount of goodwill, and any future goodwill impairment charges could adversely impact our results of operations. As of December 31, 2014, we had goodwill of $590.6 million. The future occurrence of a potential indicator of impairment, such as a significant adverse change in legal factors or business climate, an adverse action or assessment by a regulator, unanticipated competition, a material negative change in relationships with significant customers, strategic decisions made in response to economic or competitive conditions, loss of key personnel or a more-likely-than-not expectation that a reporting unit or a significant portion of a reporting unit will be sold or disposed of, could result in goodwill impairment results of operations. We have recorded goodwill charges, which could adversely impact our impairment charges in the past, and such charges materially impacted our historical results of operations. For additional to the accompanying consolidated financial statements. information, see Note 3, Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Poor investment performance by our pension plan assets may increase our pension liability and expense, which may increase the required funding of our pension obligations and divert funds from other potential uses. We provide defined benefit pension plans to eligible employees. Our pension expense and our required contributions to our pension plans are directly affected by the value of plan assets, the actual rate of return on plan assets and the actuarial assumptions we use to measure our defined benefit pension plan obligations, including the rate at which future obligations are discounted to a present value, or the discount rate. We assumed a weighted average rate of return of 6.86% on pension assets during 2014. Poor investment performance by our pension plan assets resulting from a decline in prices in the equity and/or fixed income markets could impact the funded status of our plans. Should the assets earn an average return less than our assumed rate, it is likely that future pension expenses and funding requirements would increase. We cannot predict whether changing market or economic conditions, regulatory changes or other factors will further increase our pension expense or funding obligations, diverting funds we would otherwise apply to other uses. Risks related to our pension plans may adversely impact our results of operations and cash flow. Significant changes in the actual investment return on pension assets, discount rates, and other factors have and may continue to adversely affect our results of operations and pension contributions in future periods. U.S. generally accepted accounting principles require that we calculate income or expense for the plans using actuarial valuations. These valuations reflect assumptions about financial markets and interest rates. Changes in these assumptions have resulted in material charges to income in recent years and may continue to do so in future periods. We establish the discount rate used to determine the present value of the projected and accumulated benefit obligation at the end of each year based POLYONE CORPORATION 15 upon the available market rates for high quality, fixed income investments. An increase in the discount rate would increase future pension expense and, conversely, a decrease in the discount rate would decrease future pension expense. Funding requirements for our U.S. pension plans may become more significant. The ultimate amounts to be contributed are dependent upon, among other things, interest rates, underlying asset returns and the impact of legislative or regulatory changes related to pension funding obligations. For a discussion regarding the significant assumptions used to estimate pension expense, including discount rate, expected long-term rate of return on plan assets and mortality, and how our financial statements can be affected by pension plan accounting policies, see “Critical Accounting Policies” included in Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” The failure to successfully integrate Spartech may adversely affect future results. The success of our acquisition of Spartech will depend, in part, on our ability to realize anticipated benefits from combining the businesses of PolyOne and Spartech. To realize these anticipated benefits, the businesses of PolyOne and Spartech must be successfully combined. If we are not able to achieve these objectives, the anticipated benefits of the merger may not be realized fully or at all or may take longer to realize than expected. As a result of the Spartech acquisition, we are undergoing restructurings that may cause disruption or could have an adverse effect on our business and operations. We are undergoing certain restructurings and intended to realize certain of the potential synergies of our acquisition of Spartech. There can be no assurance that such restructurings and reorganizations will be successful or properly implemented. If any of such internal restructurings are not successful or properly implemented, we may fail to realize the potential synergies of the acquisition, which may harm our business and results of operations or cause disruptions to our operations, including disruption in our supply chain or loss of customers. Increased IT security threats and more sophisticated and targeted computer crime could pose a risk to our systems, networks, and products. Increased global IT security threats and more sophisticated and targeted computer crime pose a risk to the security of our systems and networks and the confidentiality, availability and integrity of our data and communications. While we attempt to mitigate these risks by employing a number of measures, including employee training, comprehensive monitoring of our networks and systems, and maintenance of backup and protective systems, our systems, networks and products remain potentially vulnerable to advanced persistent threats. Depending on their nature and scope, such threats could potentially lead to the compromising of confidential information and communications, improper use of our systems and networks, manipulation and destruction of data, defective products, production downtimes and operational disruptions, which in turn could adversely affect our reputation, competitiveness and results of operations. 16 POLYONE CORPORATION ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS None. ITEM 2. PROPERTIES Headquartered in Avon Lake, Ohio we operate globally with principal locations consisting of 75 manufacturing sites and eight distribution facilities in North America, South America, Europe and Asia. We own the majority of our manufacturing sites and lease our distribution facilities. We believe that the quality and production capacity of our facilities is sufficient to maintain our competitive position for the foreseeable future. The following table identifies the principal facilities of our segments: PolyOne Distribution 1.Rancho Cucamonga, California 2.Chicago, Illinois 3.Eagan, Minnesota 4.Edison, New Jersey 5.Statesville, North Carolina 6.Elyria, Ohio 7.La Porte, Texas 8.Brampton, Ontario, Canada (8 Distribution Facilities) Designed Structures and Solutions 1.Cape Giardeau, Missouri 2.Goodyear, Arizona 3.Greenville, Ohio 4.Hackensack, New Jersey 5.La Mirada, California 6.Manitowoc, Wisconsin 7.McMinnville, Oregon 8.Muncie, Indiana 9.Newark, New Jersey 10.Paulding, Ohio 11.Pleasant Hill, Iowa 12.Portage, Wisconsin 13.Ripon, Wisconsin 14.Salisbury, Maryland 15.Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin 16.Stamford, Connecticut 17.Wichita, Kansas 18.Granby, Quebec, Canada Maryland Heights, Missouri (3) (18 Manufacturing Plants) Performance Products and Solutions 1.Long Beach, California 2.Terre Haute, Indiana 3.Louisville, Kentucky 4.Avon Lake, Ohio 5.Clinton, Tennessee 6.Dyersburg, Tennessee Global Specialty Engineered Materials 1.McHenry, Illinois 2.Avon Lake, Ohio Dyersburg, Tennessee (1) 3.North Haven, Connecticut Seabrook, Texas (1) Global Color, Additives and Inks 1.Glendale, Arizona 2.Kennesaw, Georgia Suwanee, Georgia (3) 3.Elk Grove Village, Illinois 4.St. Louis, Missouri 4.Gaggenau, Germany 5.Sullivan, Missouri 5.Istanbul, Turkey 7.Pasadena, Texas 8.Seabrook, Texas 6.Barbastro, Spain 9.Orangeville, Ontario, 7.Melle, Germany 6.Massillon, Ohio 7.Norwalk, Ohio 8.North Baltimore, 8 & 9. Suzhou, China (2) 10.Shenzhen, China 11.Birmingham, Alabama Shanghai, China (3) (11 Manufacturing Plants) Canada 10.St. Remi de Napierville, Quebec, Canada 11.Dongguan, China 12.Lockport, New York 13.Ramos Arizpe, Mexico (13 Manufacturing Plants) Ohio 9.Lehigh, Pennsylvania 10.Vonore, Tennessee 11.Toluca, Mexico 12.Assesse, Belgium 13.Cergy, France 14.Tossiat, France 15.Gyor, Hungary 16.Kutno, Poland 17.Pune, India 18.Pamplona, Spain 19.Bangkok, Thailand 20.Pudong (Shanghai), China 21.Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Shenzhen, China (1) 22.Tianjin, China 23.Novo Hamburgo, Brazil 24.Berea, Ohio 25.Richland Hills, Texas 26.Bethel, Connecticut 27.Barberton, Ohio 28.Knowsley, United Kingdom 29.Eindhoven, Netherlands 30.Suzhou, China 31.Shanghai, China 32.Itupeva, Brazil 33.Odkarby, Finland Manitowoc, Wisconsin (1) (33 Manufacturing Plants) (1) Facility is not included in manufacturing plants total as it is also included as part of another segment. (2) There are two manufacturing plants located at Suzhou, China. (3) Facility is not included in manufacturing plants total as it is a design center/lab. POLYONE CORPORATION 17 ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS Information regarding other Contingencies, to the consolidated financial statements and is incorporated by reference herein. legal proceedings can be found in Note 13, Commitments and ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES Not applicable. EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT Executive officers are elected by our Board of Directors to serve one-year terms. The following table lists the name of each person currently serving as an executive officer of the Company, their age as of February 13, 2015 and current position with the Company: Name Stephen D. Newlin Robert M. Patterson Bradley C. Richardson Mark D. Crist Michael A. Garratt Michael E. Kahler Julie A. McAlindon M. John Midea, Jr. Craig M. Nikrant Ana G. Rodriguez John V. Van Hulle Age 62 42 56 56 51 57 47 50 53 47 57 Position Executive Chairman President and Chief Executive Officer Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Senior Vice President, President of Distribution Senior Vice President, President of Performance Products and Solutions Senior Vice President, Chief Commercial Officer Senior Vice President, President of Designed Structures and Solutions Senior Vice President, Global Operations and Process Improvement Senior Vice President, President of Global Specialty Engineered Materials Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resource Officer Senior Vice President, President of Global Color, Additives and Inks Stephen D. Newlin: Executive Chairman, May 2014 to date. Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, February 2006 to May 2014. President — Industrial Sector of Ecolab Inc. (a global developer and marketer of cleaning and sanitizing specialty chemicals, products and services) from 2003 to 2006. Mr. Newlin served as President and a Director of Nalco Chemical Company (a manufacturer of specialty chemicals, services and systems) from 1998 to 2001, and was Chief Operating Officer and Vice Chairman from 2000 to 2001. Mr. Newlin serves on the Board of Directors of Black Hills Corporation, Oshkosh Corporation and Univar Corporation. Robert M. Patterson: President and Chief Executive Officer, May 2014 to date. Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, March 2012 to May 2014. Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, January 2011 to March 2012. Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, May 2008 to January 2011. Vice President and Treasurer of Novelis, Inc. (an aluminum rolled products manufacturer) from 2007 to May 2008. Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer of Novelis from 2006 to 2007. Mr. Patterson served as Vice President and Segment Chief Financial Officer, Thermal and Flow Technology Segments of SPX Corporation (a multi-industry manufacturer and developer) from 2005 to 2006 and as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Cooling Technologies and Services of SPX from 2004 to 2005. Mr. Patterson served as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Marley Cooling Tower Company, a cooling tower manufacturer and subsidiary of SPX, from 2002 to 2004. Bradley C. Richardson: Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, November 2013 to date. Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Diebold, Incorporated (an integrated self- service delivery manufacturer for the banking industry and security systems) from November 2009 through November 2013. Executive Vice President, Corporate Strategy and Chief Financial Officer at Modine Manufacturing Company (a manufacturer of thermal management systems and components) from 2003 to 2009. Vice President, Performance Management Planning and Control, Chief Financial Officer, Upstream, BP Amoco, London, (a producer of oil, natural gas, and petro chemicals) 2000 to 2003. Mr. Richardson serves on the Board of Directors of Brady Corporation and is Chair of its Audit Committee. 18 POLYONE CORPORATION Mark D. Crist: Senior Vice President, President of Distribution, June 2014 to date. Vice President, Global Key Accounts and Vice President of Asia January 2012 to May 2014. Global Commercial Director of Geon Performance Materials June 2008 to December 2011. General Manager Nalco Chemical Company Europe April 2006 to March 2008. General Manager Nalco Chemical Company North America June 2003 to March 2006. Marketing Manager Nalco Europe December 1999 to May 2003. Regional Sales Manager Nalco Chemical Company March 1997 to November 1999. Michael A. Garratt: Senior Vice President, President of Performance Products and Solutions, September 2013 to date. President, Marmon Utility (a manufacturer of medium-high voltage utility, subsea and down-hole power cables and molded insulator systems), March 2011 to September 2013. Chief Operating Officer, Excel Polymers (a custom thermoset rubber formulator), November 2009 to December 2010. Vice President and General Manager — Americas Compounding and Performance Additives, Excel Polymers, March 2009 to November 2009. Vice President and General Manager — Industrial and Consumer, Excel Polymers, December 2005 to March 2009. From August 1994 to June 2005, Mr. Garratt worked for DuPont Dow Elastomers, a joint venture of Dupont and Dow (global manufacturers of engineered thermoset rubber and thermoplastic elastomer materials) in market development and product management positions, culminating in a regional commercial leadership role for Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Michael E. Kahler: Senior Vice President, Chief Commercial Officer, January 2010 to date. Senior Vice President, Commercial Development, May 2006 to January 2010. President, Process Technology Division, Alfa Laval Inc. (a global provider of heat transfer, separation and fluid handling products and engineering solutions) from January 2004 to March 2006. Group Vice President, Nalco Chemical Company (a manufacturer of specialty chemicals, services and systems) from December 1999 to October 2002. Julie McAlindon: Senior Vice President, President of Designed Structures and Solutions, March 2013 to date. Vice President of Marketing, May 2010 to March 2013. Global Corporate Account Director, Dow Advanced Materials, The Dow Chemical Company (a global provider of chemicals and plastics) July 2009 to May 2010, Global Strategic Marketing Director, Dow Coating Solutions, The Dow Chemical Company, March 2008 to July 2009. Global Business Director, Polypropylene, The Dow Chemical Company, May 2007 to March 2008. Senior Product Director, Solution Polyethylene, The Dow Chemical Company, May 2005 to May 2007. Global Marketing Executive, UCON™ Fluids and Lubricants, The Dow Chemical Company, March 2002 to May 2005. M. John Midea, Jr.: Senior Vice President, Global Operations and Process Improvement, February 2015 to date. President and Chief Executive Officer, Resco Products (a refractory products company) from August 2012 to October 2014. President and Chief Operating Officer, Ennis Traffic Safety Solutions (a traffic safety and infrastructure company) from June 2008 to July 2012. Vice President, North American — General Industrial, Valspar Corporation (a manufacturer of paints and coatings) from June 2007 to May 2008. Vice President and General Manager, Power Coatings, Valspar Corporation from February 2002 to June 2007. Craig M. Nikrant: Senior Vice President, President of Global Specialty Engineered Materials, January 2010 to date. Vice President and General Manager, Specialty Engineered Materials, September 2006 to December 2009. General Manager, Specialty Film & Sheet, General Electric Plastics, June 2004 to September 2006. Director, Global Commercial Effectiveness, General Electric Plastics (a former division of General Electric specializing in supplying plastics), December 2003 to June 2004. Six Sigma Master Black Belt, General Electric Company Plastics Business, March 2001 to December 2002. General Manager, Commercial Operations, North Central Region, General Electric Plastics, June 1999 to March 2001. Ana G. Rodriguez: Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer, May 2014 to date. Senior Vice President, Global Human Resources, Molex Incorporated (a manufacturer of electronic connectors), September 2008 to March 2014. Vice President, Co-General Counsel and Corporate POLYONE CORPORATION 19 Secretary, Molex, September 2006 to August 2008, Vice President and Assistant General Counsel, Molex, October 2005 to September 2006. Senior Counsel, Amgen Inc. (a global biotechnology medicines company), May 2003 to September 2005. Senior Counsel and Assistant Corporate Secretary, Tenet Healthcare Corporation (a health care services company) May 2000 to May 2003. John V. Van Hulle: Senior Vice President, President of Global Color, Additives and Inks, January 2010 to date. Senior Vice President and General Manager, Specialty Color, Additives and Inks, July 2006 to January 2010. President and Chief Executive Officer — ChemDesign Corporation (a custom chemical manufacturer), December 2001 to July 2006. President, Specialty & Fine Chemicals — Cambrex Corporation (a specialty chemical and pharmaceutical business) August 1994 to November 2000. 20 POLYONE CORPORATION PART II ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES The following table sets forth the range of the high and low sale prices for our common shares, $0.01 par value per share, as reported by the New York Stock Exchange, where the shares are traded under the symbol “POL,” for the periods indicated: Common share price: Fourth Third Second First Fourth Third Second First High Low $39.28 $43.34 $32.01 $34.78 $42.47 $36.02 $38.38 $35.77 $30.96 $32.81 $28.66 $24.76 $26.84 $21.42 $25.63 $20.96 2014 Quarters 2013 Quarters As of January 31, 2015, there were 2,221 holders of record of our common shares. The following table presents quarterly dividends declared per common share for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 Quarter Ended: March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31, Total 2014 2013 $0.08 $0.06 0.06 0.06 0.08 0.08 0.08 0.10 $0.34 $0.26 The table below sets forth information regarding repurchase of shares of our common shares during the period indicated. For the full year 2014, we repurchased 6.3 million shares at a weighted average share price of $37.00. Period October 1 to October 31 November 1 to November 30 December 1 to December 31 Total Total Number of Shares Purchased Weighted Average Price Paid Per Share 550,000 750,000 300,000 1,600,000 $35.25 37.55 35.31 $36.34 Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Program 550,000 750,000 300,000 1,600,000 Maximum Number of Shares that May Yet be Purchased Under the Program (1) 9,750,000 9,000,000 8,700,000 (1) In August 2008, PolyOne’s Board of Directors approved a common shares repurchase program authorizing PolyOne to purchase up to 10.0 million shares of its common shares. On October 11, 2011 and October 23, 2012, PolyOne’s Board of Directors increased the common shares repurchase authorization by an additional 5.3 million and 13.2 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, 8.7 million shares remained available under the share repurchase authorization. POLYONE CORPORATION 21 ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA Refer to Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” in Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the notes to our accompanying information regarding the financial data presented consolidated financial statements for additional below, including matters that might cause this data not to be indicative of our future financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. (In millions, except per share data) 2014 (1) 2013 (2) 2012 (3) 2011 (4) 2010 (5) Sales Operating income Net income from continuing operations, net of income tax Net income from continuing operations attributable to $3,835.5 $3,771.2 $2,860.8 $2,709.4 $2,506.2 159.2 152.5 203.0 153.4 155.1 77.2 231.5 92.9 137.5 53.2 PolyOne shareholders 78.0 94.0 53.3 153.4 152.5 Cash dividends declared per common share $ 0.34 $ 0.26 $ 0.20 $ 0.16 $ — Earnings per share from continuing operations attributable to PolyOne shareholders: Basic Diluted Total assets Long-term debt, net of current portion $ $ 0.85 $ 0.83 $ 0.98 $ 0.97 $ 0.60 $ 0.59 $ 1.66 $ 1.63 $ 1.64 1.59 $2,711.2 $2,944.1 $2,128.0 $2,078.1 $1,671.9 $ 962.0 $ 976.2 $ 703.1 $ 704.0 $ 432.9 (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) Included in operating income for 2014 are: 1) a mark-to-market charge related to our pension and post-retirement health care benefit plans of $56.5 million, 2) expenses of $94.1 million related to employee separation and restructuring costs and reductions in force and 3) expenses of $10.3 million related to environmental remediation costs. Included in operating income for 2013 are: 1) gains of $26.9 million primarily related to the 2013 SunBelt Chlor Alkali Partnership (SunBelt) earn-out, 2) a mark-to-market gain related to our pension and OPEB plans of $44.0 million, 3) expenses of $61.2 million related to environmental remediation costs, 4) insurance recoveries of $23.5 million, 5) a $7.0 million gain on commercial litigation, 6) expenses of $52.0 million related to employee separation and restructuring costs and 7) acquisition-related costs (including inventory fair value adjustments) of $15.2 million. Included in operating income for 2012 are: 1) gains of $23.4 million for the 2012 SunBelt earn-out , 2) a mark-to-market loss related to our pension and OPEB plans of $42.0 million, 3) expenses of $12.8 million related to environmental remediation costs, 4) expenses of $11.5 million related to employee separation and restructuring costs and 5) acquisition-related costs of $9.3 million. Included in operating income for 2011 are: 1) gains of $146.3 million related to the sale of our equity interest in SunBelt Chlor Alkali Partnership (SunBelt), which includes the 2011 earn-out of $18.1 million, 2) a mark-to-market charge related to our pension and OPEB plans of $83.8 million, 3) environmental remediation costs of $9.7 million and 4) acquisition-related costs of $6.6 million. Included in net income for 2011 is a $29.5 million tax benefit related to our investment in O’Sullivan Engineered Films and a $13.0 million tax benefit primarily related with the reversal of valuation allowances. Included in operating income for 2010 are: 1) gains of $23.9 million related to legal and insurance settlements, 2) insurance recoveries of $16.7 million related to reimbursement of previously incurred environmental expenses, 3) a gain of $16.3 million related to the sale of our 50% interest in BayOne, a previously owned equity affiliate and part of Bayer MaterialScience LLC, 4) debt extinguishment costs of $29.5 million, 5) environmental remediation costs of $20.5 million and 6) a mark-to-market charge related to our pension and OPEB plans of $9.6 million. Included in net income are tax benefits of $107.1 million associated with the reversal of our valuation allowances. 22 POLYONE CORPORATION ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Overview is supplemental Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (MD&A) is designed to provide information that to, and should be read together with, our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Information in this Item 7 is intended to assist the reader in obtaining an understanding of our consolidated financial statements, the changes in certain key items in those financial statements from year to year, the primary factors that accounted for those changes, and any known trends or uncertainties that we are aware of that may have a material effect on our future performance, as well as how certain accounting principles affect our consolidated financial statements. The following discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our plans, estimates and beliefs. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed in these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to these differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed below and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, particularly in “Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements” and Item 1A, “Risk Factors.” Our Business We are a premier provider of specialized polymer materials, services and solutions with operations in specialty polymer formulations, color and additive systems, plastic sheet and packaging solutions and polymer distribution. We are also a highly specialized developer and manufacturer of performance enhancing additives, liquid colorants, and fluoropolymer and silicone colorants. Headquartered in Avon Lake, Ohio, with 2014 sales of $3.8 billion, we have manufacturing sites and distribution facilities in North America, South America, Europe, Asia and Africa. We currently employ approximately 6,900 people and offer more than 35,000 polymer solutions to over 10,000 customers across the globe. We provide value to our customers through our ability to link our knowledge of polymers and formulation technology with our manufacturing and supply chain capabilities to provide value-added solutions to designers, assemblers and processors of plastics (our customers). Business Model and Key Concepts The central focus of our business model is to provide specialized material and service solutions to our customers by leveraging our global footprint, product and technology breadth, manufacturing expertise, fully integrated information technology network, broad market reach and raw material procurement strength. These resources enable us to capitalize on dynamic changes in the end markets we serve, which include transportation, packaging, building and construction, industrial, healthcare, consumer, wire and cable, electrical and electronics, and appliance. Key Challenges Overall, our business faces exposure resulting from economic downturns, especially as it relates to affected markets such as building and construction, consumer, electrical, and industrial. Increasing profitability during periods of raw material price volatility is another critical challenge. Further, we need to capitalize on the opportunity to accelerate development of products that meet a growing body of environmental laws and regulations such as lead and phthalate restrictions included in the Restrictions on the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances and the Consumer Product Safety Information Act of 2008. Strategy and Key Trends To address these challenges and achieve our vision, we have implemented a strategy with four core components: specialization, globalization, operational excellence and commercial excellence. Specialization differentiates us through products, services, technology, and solutions that add value. POLYONE CORPORATION 23 Globalization allows us to service our customers with consistency wherever their operations might be around the world. Operational excellence empowers us to respond to the voice of the customer while focusing on continuous improvement. Commercial excellence enables us to deliver value to customers by supporting their growth and profitability. In the short term, we will maintain our focus on top-line growth, improving or maintaining the cost/price relationship with regard to raw materials and improving working capital efficiency. In addition to driving top-line growth, we have established margin improvement targets for all businesses. In 2015, our capital expenditures will be focused primarily to support sales growth, our continued investment in the Spartech integration activities, and other strategic investments. We also continue to consider acquisitions and other synergy opportunities that complement our core platforms. These actions will ensure that we continue to invest in capabilities that advance the pace of our transformation and continue to support growth in key markets and product offerings. We will continue our enterprise-wide Lean Six Sigma program directed at improving profitability and cash flow by applying proven management techniques and strategies to key areas of the business, such as pricing, supply chain and operations management, productivity and quality. Long-term trends that currently provide opportunities to leverage our strategy include the drive toward sustainability in polymers and their processing, the emergence of biodegradable and bio-based polymers, consumer concern over the use of bisphenol-A (BPA) in infant-care products and developing legislation that bans lead and certain phthalates from toys and child-care items. Recent Developments On December 1, 2014, the Company completed the acquisition of specialty assets of Accella, a leading North American manufacturer of liquid polymer formulations for $47.2 million in cash, net of cash acquired. The results of operations of Accella were included in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income since the date of the acquisition and are reported in the Global Color, Additives and Inks segment. Highlights and Executive Summary A summary of PolyOne’s sales, operating income, income from continuing operations net of income taxes, net income from continuing operations attributable to PolyOne common shareholders, liquidity and total debt is included in the following table: (In millions) 2014 2013 2012 $3,835.5 $3,771.2 $2,860.8 137.5 53.2 155.1 77.2 231.5 92.9 78.0 94.0 53.3 $ 475.0 $ 650.9 $ 381.2 $1,023.8 $ 988.9 $ 706.9 Sales Operating income Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes Net income from continuing operations attributable to PolyOne common shareholders Liquidity Total debt 24 POLYONE CORPORATION Results of Operations Variances — Favorable (Unfavorable) 2013 versus 2012 2014 versus 2013 (Dollars in millions, except per share data) 2014 2013 2012 Change Change Change % Sales Cost of sales Gross margin Selling and administrative expense Income related to previously owned equity affiliates Operating income Interest expense, net Debt extinguishment costs Other expense, net Income from continuing operations, before income taxes Income tax expense Net income from continuing operations Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes Net income Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Net income attributable to PolyOne common shareholders $3,835.5 $3,771.2 $2,860.8 $ 64.3 (18.6) 2,329.7 3,109.0 3,127.6 1.7 % $ 910.4 (0.6)% (779.3) 707.9 552.8 662.2 457.6 531.1 417.0 45.7 (95.2) 6.9 % 131.1 (20.8)% (40.6) % Change 31.8 % (33.5)% 24.7 % (9.7)% — 26.9 23.4 (26.9) (100.0)% 3.5 15.0 % 155.1 (62.2) — (4.5) 231.5 (63.5) (15.8) (1.2) 137.5 (50.8) — (3.4) (76.4) 1.3 15.8 (3.3) (33.0)% 94.0 2.0 % (12.7) 100.0 % (15.8) 2.2 (275.0)% 68.4 % (25.0)% (100.0)% 64.7 % 88.4 (11.2) 151.0 (58.1) 83.3 (30.1) (62.6) 46.9 (41.5)% 67.7 80.7 % (28.0) 81.3 % (93.0)% $ 77.2 $ 92.9 $ 53.2 $ (15.7) (16.9)% $ 39.7 74.6 % 1.2 78.4 149.8 242.7 $ 18.6 71.8 (148.6) (99.2)% 131.2 705.4 % (164.3) (67.7)% 170.9 238.0 % 0.8 1.1 0.1 (0.3) (27.3)% 1.0 1,000.0 % $ 79.2 $ 243.8 $ 71.9 $(164.6) (67.5)% $ 171.9 239.1 % Earnings per share attributable to PolyOne common shareholders — basic: 0.60 0.21 Continuing operations Discontinued operations 0.98 $ 1.57 0.85 $ 0.01 $ Total $ 0.86 $ 2.55 $ 0.81 Earnings per share attributable to PolyOne common shareholders — diluted: Continuing operations Discontinued operations Total Sales $ $ 0.83 $ 0.02 0.97 $ 1.56 0.85 $ 2.53 $ 0.59 0.21 0.80 Sales increased 1.7% in 2014 compared to 2013. The acquisition of Spartech increased sales 5.2%, while improved mix and pricing increased sales 3.7%. Partially offsetting these increases were declines of 7.0% primarily a result of softening demand in Europe and the wire and cable end market along with the exit of certain product lines in Brazil. Sales increased 31.8% in 2013 compared to 2012, 30.6% of which is attributable to the acquisitions of Spartech and Glasforms Inc. (Glasforms). Improved mix and increased pricing, primarily associated with higher raw material costs, increased sales 3.3%, while favorable currency exchange rates impacted sales by 0.4%. These increases were partially offset by declines of 2.5% primarily a result of weakened demand in our North America wire and cable business and in Europe. Cost of sales As a percent of sales, cost of sales decreased from 82.4% in 2013 to 81.5% in 2014 primarily due to improved price and mix and the exiting of certain product lines in Brazil and Spartech. POLYONE CORPORATION 25 As a percent of sales, cost of sales increased from 81.4% in 2012 to 82.4% in 2013 primarily due to a $15.7 million increase in restructuring charges as a result of the Spartech re-alignment actions, and a $24.9 million increase in net environmental charges, primarily related to the revision to our Calvert City reserve of $47.0 million, offset by insurance recoveries of $23.5 million. Additionally, the increase in costs of goods sold was impacted by Spartech sales, which have lower margins than organic PolyOne sales. These items more than offset PolyOne’s organic margin improvement. Selling and administrative expense These costs include selling, technology, administrative functions, corporate and general expenses. Selling and administrative expense in 2014 increased $95.2 million, primarily related to increased restructuring costs of $11.4 million, a full year of results of Spartech and a $96.9 million unfavorable difference in the pension and other post-retirement mark-to-market adjustment. In 2014, we recognized a pension charge of $54.5 million compared to a pension gain of $42.4 million in 2013. The 2014 mark- to-market adjustment was driven primarily by decreased discount rates and a change in our mortality assumptions. These increases more than offset decreased discretionary spending and lower acquisition-related costs of $4.0 million primarily associated with Spartech. Selling and administrative expense in 2013 increased $40.6 million, primarily related to acquisitions and acquisition-related costs totaling $70.3 million, increased restructuring costs of $24.8 million and increased stock based compensation expense of $6.1 million. Additionally, organic segment selling and administrative expense increased $16.3 million, primarily driven by additional commercial resources and inflation. These increases more than offset a commercial litigation gain of $7.0 million, and a $83.1 million favorable difference in the pension and other post-retirement mark-to-market adjustment. In 2013, we recognized a pension gain of $42.4 million compared to a charge of $40.7 million in 2012. The 2013 mark-to-market adjustment was driven primarily by increased discount rates and returns on plan assets in excess of our weighted average assumed rate of return of 8.41% on plan assets in 2013. Income Related to Previously Owned Equity Affiliates Effective February 28, 2011, we sold our 50% equity investment in SunBelt and recognized a pre-tax gain of $128.2 million. During 2012 and 2013, we recognized a gain of $23.4 million and $26.9 million, respectively, related to the final earn-outs associated with the sale. The gains associated with our sale of our equity investment in SunBelt are reflected within Corporate and eliminations in our segment reporting. Interest expense, net Interest expense, net decreased $1.3 million in 2014 compared to 2013, primarily due to the remaining amortization of the Spartech bridge loan commitment fees of $1.9 million in 2013. Interest expense, net increased $12.7 million in 2013 compared to 2012, primarily due to higher average borrowing levels in 2013 related to the 5.25% senior notes due 2023 issued on February 28, 2013, in connection with the Spartech acquisition. Debt extinguishment costs Debt extinguishment costs of $15.8 million for 2013 includes $5.2 million related to the repurchase of $43.4 million aggregate principal amount of our 7.375% senior notes due 2020 and $1.3 million aggregate principal amount of our 7.50% debentures due 2015. Debt extinguishment costs for 2013 also includes $10.6 million related to the repayment of the outstanding principal amount of $297.0 million under our senior secured term loan. Income tax expense from continuing operations Income tax expense from continuing operations was $11.2 million, an effective rate of 12.7%, for 2014 compared to $58.1 million, an effective rate of 38.5%, for 2013. The lower effective rate for 2014 was 26 POLYONE CORPORATION driven by $13.4 million, a 15.2% decline in our effective rate, of tax benefits associated with our investments in certain foreign affiliates in addition to favorable settlements and tax return amendments with U.S. and foreign tax authorities of $6.0 million, a 6.8% decline in our effective rate. Income tax expense from continuing operations was $58.1 million, an effective rate of 38.5%, for 2013 compared to $30.1 million, an effective rate of 36.1%, for 2012. The higher effective rate for 2013 was driven primarily by a shift in earnings to the United States as a result of the acquisitions of Spartech and Glasforms, which have earnings primarily in the United States. Segment Information the segment level does not Operating income is the primary financial measure that is reported to the chief operating decision maker for purposes of making decisions about allocating resources to the segment and assessing its include: corporate general and performance. Operating income at administrative costs that are not allocated to segments; intersegment sales and profit eliminations; charges related to specific strategic initiatives, such as the consolidation of operations; restructuring activities, including employee separation costs resulting from personnel reduction programs, plant integration costs; executive separation agreements; share-based closure and phase-in costs; compensation costs; environmental remediation costs for facilities no longer owned or closed in prior years; gains and losses on the divestiture of joint ventures and equity investments; actuarial gains and losses related to pension and post-retirement benefit plans; and certain other items that are not included in the measure of segment profit or loss that is reported to and reviewed by the chief operating decision maker. These costs are included in Corporate and eliminations. PolyOne has five reportable segments: (1) Global Color, Additives and Inks; (2) Global Specialty Engineered Materials; (3) Designed Structures and Solutions; (4) Performance Products and Solutions; and (5) PolyOne Distribution. Our segments are further discussed in Note 16, Segment consolidated financial statements. Information, to the accompanying POLYONE CORPORATION 27 Sales and Operating Income — 2014 compared with 2013 and 2013 compared with 2012 (Dollars in millions) 2014 2013 2012 Change % Change Change % Change 2014 versus 2013 2013 versus 2012 Sales: Global Color, Additives and Inks Global Specialty Engineered Materials Designed Structures and Solutions Performance Products and Solutions PolyOne Distribution Corporate and eliminations 850.8 852.3 778.2 (1.5) (0.2)% 74.1 9.5 % 598.3 617.5 615.5 597.4 543.6 — 816.6 1,114.4 (162.1) 773.2 1,075.2 (142.4) 630.3 1,030.3 (121.6) (17.2) 20.1 43.4 39.2 (19.7) (2.8)% 3.4 % 71.9 597.4 13.2 % 100.0 % 5.6 % 3.6 % (13.8)% 142.9 44.9 (20.8) 22.7 % 4.4 % (17.1)% Sales $ 3,835.5 $ 3,771.2 $ 2,860.8 $ 64.3 1.7 % $ 910.4 31.8 % Operating income: Global Color, Additives and Inks Global Specialty Engineered Materials Designed Structures and Solutions Performance Products and Solutions PolyOne Distribution Corporate and eliminations 124.9 104.0 72.4 45.1 63.1 68.2 (218.6) 57.2 33.4 56.0 63.3 (82.4) 75.3 47.0 — 15.2 11.7 26.6 % 35.0 % 38.8 66.0 (89.6) 7.1 4.9 (136.2) 12.7 % 7.7 % (165.3)% Operating income $ 155.1 $ 231.5 $ 137.5 $ (76.4) (33.0)% $ 94.0 10.2 33.4 17.2 (2.7) 7.2 21.7 % 100.0 % 44.3 % (4.1)% (8.0)% 68.4 % 20.9 20.1 % 28.7 38.1 % Operating income as a percentage of sales: Global Color, Additives and Inks Global Specialty Engineered 14.7% 12.2% 9.7% 2.5% points 2.5% points Materials Designed Structures and Solutions Performance Products and Solutions PolyOne Distribution Total 12.1% 7.3% 7.7% 6.1% 4.0% 9.3% 5.6% 7.2% 5.9% 6.1% 8.6% — % 6.2% 6.4% 4.8% 2.8% points 1.7% points 0.5% points 0.2% points (2.1)% points 0.7% points — 1.0% points (0.5)% points 1.3% points Global Color, Additives and Inks Sales decreased $1.5 million, or 0.2%, in 2014 compared to 2013. Sales decreased 8.0% primarily as a result of weaker demand conditions in Europe and an unfavorable foreign exchange rate impact of 0.4%. These decreases were largely offset by mix improvement of 6.2% and an increase of 2.0% due to the inclusion of a full year of Spartech results. Operating income increased $20.9 million in 2014 compared to 2013. This increase was driven by year to date margin expansion related to mix improvement primarily in North America and Asia. Sales increased $74.1 million, or 9.5%, in 2013 compared to 2012. Sales increased 8.0% as a result of the Spartech acquisition, 6.8% due to improved price and mix and 0.9% due to favorable exchange rate impact. These increases were partially offset by a 6.2% decline in volume primarily in the industrial and packaging end markets. Operating income increased $28.7 million in 2013 compared to 2012. The increase is primarily due to improvement in mix and the Spartech acquisition. 28 POLYONE CORPORATION Global Specialty Engineered Materials Sales decreased $17.2 million, or 2.8%, in 2014 compared to 2013. Improved price and mix resulted in a 4.8% increase to sales while the inclusion of a full year of results in Spartech increased sales 0.6%. These increases were more than offset by decreases of 7.8% primarily due to exiting certain product lines in Brazil and an unfavorable foreign exchange rate impact of 0.4%. Operating income increased $15.2 million in 2014 compared to 2013. This increase was driven primarily by margin expansion resulting from improved mix and exiting certain unprofitable products in Brazil. Sales increased $71.9 million, or 13.2%, in 2013 compared to 2012. Sales increased 10.0% due to the Spartech and Glasforms acquisitions and 2.6% due to organic sales primarily in the consumer and health care end markets, while favorable foreign exchange rates impacted sales by 0.6%. Operating income increased $10.2 million in 2013 compared to 2012. This increase was driven primarily by organic improvements in sales and mix. Designed Structures and Solutions Sales increased $20.1 million, or 3.4%, in 2014 compared to 2013. Sales increased 22.1% as a result of the inclusion of Spartech results for the full year in 2014 and 6.5% due to improved mix and price. Partially offsetting these increases was a 25.0% decline resulting from exiting certain products. Operating income increased $11.7 million, or 35.0%, in 2014 compared to 2013. This increase was driven primarily by improved mix reflecting the exit of certain unprofitable products, cost reductions related to North American realignment actions and the inclusion of Spartech results for the full year of 2014. Performance Products and Solutions Sales increased $43.4 million, or 5.6%, in 2014 compared to 2013. Sales increased 5.5% as a result of the acquisition of Spartech and 2.1% due to increases primarily within the industrial and transportation end markets. These increases were partially offset by unfavorable mix as the volume increases were associated with higher contract manufacturing sales. Operating income increased $7.1 million in 2014 compared to 2013 primarily due to increased sales and cost reductions from the North American realignment actions. Sales increased $142.9 million, or 22.7%, in 2013 compared to 2012. Sales increased 25.3% due to the Spartech acquisition and 2.2% due to improved pricing and mix. These increases were partially offset by volume declines of 4.8% primarily related to contract manufacturing for the transportation end markets. Operating income increased $17.2 million in 2013 compared to 2012 primarily due to improved price and mix and the Spartech acquisition. PolyOne Distribution Sales increased $39.2 million, or 3.6%, in 2014 compared to 2013, primarily associated with higher raw material costs. Operating income increased $4.9 million in 2014 compared to 2013 primarily due to increased sales and slightly lower selling and administrative expense. Sales increased $44.9 million, or 4.4%, in 2013 compared to 2012. Increased pricing associated with higher raw material costs increased sales by 3.1%, while volume increases favorably impacted sales by 1.3%. POLYONE CORPORATION 29 Operating income decreased $2.7 million in 2013 compared to 2012 primarily due to higher raw material costs. Corporate and Eliminations The following table breaks down Corporate and eliminations into its various components for 2014, 2013 and 2012: (In millions) Year Ended December 31, 2014 Year Ended December 31, 2013 Year Ended December 31, 2012 Environmental remediation costs Insurance recoveries and other settlements (a) Employee separation and restructuring costs (b) Gain on sale related to investment in equity affiliate (c) Share based compensation Non-share based incentive compensation Pension and other post-retirement (expense)/income (d) Acquisition-related costs, including inventory fair value adjustments All other and eliminations (e) Total Corporate and eliminations $ (10.3) 3.7 (94.1) — (14.2) (25.0) (51.5) (3.8) (23.4) $(218.6) $(61.2) 30.5 (52.0) 26.9 (16.5) (25.2) 55.2 (15.2) (24.9) $(82.4) $(12.8) — (11.5) 23.4 (10.4) (22.8) (26.5) (9.3) (19.7) $(89.6) (a) These settlements primarily relate to the reimbursement of previously incurred environmental costs. (b) Includes $59.7 million and $44.1 million in 2014 and 2013, respectively, of Spartech related restructuring as part of the Spartech integration designed to better serve customers, improve efficiency and deliver synergy related cost savings. 2014 also includes $17.0 million of charges related to our closure of two manufacturing locations in Brazil. Refer to Note 4, Employee Separation and Restructuring Costs, for further information about these actions and estimated future costs. (c) On February 28, 2011, we sold our 50% equity interest in SunBelt to Olin Corporation (Olin). The gain for 2012 and 2013 primarily represents the second and final earn-outs related to the sale of our equity interest in SunBelt. (d) We have elected to immediately recognize actuarial gains and losses in our operating results in the year in which the gains or losses occur related to our pension and other post-retirement benefit plans. Amounts shown here include the following mark-to-market adjustments: a $56.5 million charge in 2014, a $44.0 million gain in 2013 and a $42.0 million charge in 2012. (e) All other and eliminations is comprised of intersegment eliminations and corporate general and administrative costs that are not allocated to segments. Liquidity and Capital Resources Our objective is to finance our business through operating cash flow and an appropriate mix of debt and equity. By laddering the maturity structure, we avoid concentrations of debt maturities, reducing liquidity risk. We may from time to time seek to retire or purchase our outstanding debt with cash and/ or exchanges for equity securities, in open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions or otherwise. We may also seek to repurchase our outstanding common shares. Such repurchases, if any, will depend on prevailing market conditions, our liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions and other factors. The amounts involved may be material. The following table summarizes our liquidity as of December 31, 2014: (In millions) Cash and cash equivalents Revolving credit availability Liquidity As of December 31, 2014 $238.6 236.4 $475.0 As of December 31, 2014, 91% of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents resided outside the United States. Repatriation of these funds could result in potential foreign and domestic taxes. To the extent foreign earnings previously treated as permanently reinvested were to be repatriated, the potential U.S. tax liability may be reduced by any foreign income taxes paid on these earnings. However, based on the Company’s policy of permanent reinvestment, it is not practicable to determine 30 POLYONE CORPORATION the U.S. federal income tax liability, if any. Determination of the amount of unrecognized deferred tax liabilities and related foreign withholding taxes is not practicable due to the complexities associated with this hypothetical calculation and the Company’s permanent reinvestment policy. As of December 31, 2014, the non-U.S. subsidiaries have a cumulative unremitted foreign earnings income position of $281.7 million, for which no deferred tax liability has been provided. Based on current projections, we believe that we will be able to continue to manage and control working capital, discretionary spending and capital expenditures and that cash provided by operating activities, along with available borrowing capacity under our revolving credit facilities, should allow us to maintain adequate levels of available capital resources to fund our operations, meet debt service obligations and continue to repurchase our outstanding common shares. Expected sources of cash in 2015 include cash from operations, and available liquidity under our revolving credit facility, if needed. Expected uses of cash in 2015 include interest payments, cash taxes, contributions to our defined benefit pension plans, dividend payments, share repurchases, environmental remediation at inactive and formerly owned sites, restructuring payments, and capital expenditures. Capital expenditures are currently estimated to be $85.0 million in 2015, primarily to support sales growth, our continued investment in recent acquisitions and other strategic investments. On March 1, 2013, the agreement governing our $300.0 million five-year senior secured revolving credit facility was amended and restated. The amendment and restatement resulted in an increase in commitments of $100.0 million for a maximum facility size of $400.0 million, subject to a borrowing base with advances against certain U.S. and Canadian accounts receivable and inventory. We have the option to increase the availability under the facility to $450.0 million, subject to meeting certain requirements and obtaining commitments for such increase. In connection with the amendment and restatement, we also extended the maturity date to March 1, 2018. As of December 31, 2014, we were in compliance with all covenants and there were $45.0 million of outstanding borrowings under our asset-backed revolving credit facility, which had availability of $233.7 million. The Company maintains a credit line with Saudi Hollandi Bank for $16.0 million, with an interest rate equal to the Saudi Arabia Interbank Offered Rate plus a fixed rate of 0.85%. The credit line is being used to fund capital expenditures related to the manufacturing facility in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and is subject to an annual renewal. As of December 31, 2014, letters of credit under the credit line were $0.2 million and borrowings were $13.1 million with an interest rate of 1.85%. As of December 31, 2014, there was remaining availability on the credit line of $2.7 million. Cash Flows The following summarizes our cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities. (In millions) Cash provided by (used in): Operating Activities Investing Activities Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate on cash 2014 2013 2012 $ 208.4 $109.0 $106.9 (72.3) (17.5) 1.0 (111.8) (218.4) (4.8) (60.1) 104.8 1.5 Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents $(126.6) $155.2 $ 18.1 Operating activities In 2014, net cash provided by operating activities was $208.4 million as compared to $109.0 million in 2013. The increase in net cash provided by operating activities of $99.4 million is primarily driven by lower tax payments of $51.6 million as 2013 included tax payments primarily associated with the gain on sale of the Resin Business, lower pension and post-retirement health care benefit plan payments of $49.5 million and improved working capital. POLYONE CORPORATION 31 Working capital as a percentage of sales, which we define as the average thirteen months of accounts receivable, plus inventory, less accounts payable, divided by full year sales, improved to 9.9% at December 31, 2014 from 10.7% at December 31, 2013. Days sales outstanding as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 were 46.0 and 49.2, respectively. In 2013, net cash provided by operating activities was $109.0 million as compared to $106.9 million in 2012. The increase in net cash provided by operating activities of $2.1 million is primarily driven by higher earnings and improved working capital, which more than offset increased income tax payments associated with higher earnings and the gain on the Resin Business sale. Investing Activities Net cash used by investing activities during 2014 of $111.8 million primarily reflects capital expenditures of $92.8 million and the acquisition of specialty assets of Accella for $47.2 million, net of cash acquired. This usage was partially offset by the third and final earn-out payment from the 2011 sale of our equity investment in SunBelt of $26.8 million and proceeds from the sale of other assets of $1.4 million. Net cash used by investing activities during 2013 of $60.1 million primarily reflects our acquisition of Spartech for $258.8 million, net of cash acquired, and capital expenditures of $76.4 million. These cash outflows were partially offset by cash proceeds received of $275.7 million primarily related to the sale of our Resin Business for $250.0 million and the $23.2 million payment for year two of the three year earn-out from the 2011 sale of our equity investment in SunBelt. Net cash used by investing activities during 2012 of $72.3 million reflects our acquisition of Glasforms for $33.8 million, net of cash acquired and capital expenditures of $57.4 million. These cash outflows were partially offset by cash proceeds of $18.9 million, primarily related to the receipt of the first of three earn-outs related to our 2011 sale of our equity investment in SunBelt. Financing Activities Net cash used in financing activities in 2014 reflects repurchases of $233.2 million of our outstanding common shares, cash dividends paid of $29.9 million and the repayment of long-term debt of $8.0 million. These cash outflows more than offset the tax benefit of $6.9 million related to the exercise of employee equity awards and a $45.8 million net draw under existing credit facilities. Net cash used in financing activities in 2013 reflects repayment of our long-term debt of $343.3 million, debt financing costs of $13.0 million, premium on early extinguishment of long-term debt of $4.6 million, repurchases of $131.6 million of our outstanding common shares and dividend payments of $21.5 million. These cash outflows were more than offset by proceeds received from the issuance of our 5.25% senior notes due 2023 in the aggregate principal amount of $600.0 million, net proceeds from borrowings under our credit facilities of $11.5 million and income tax benefits of $7.3 million related to the exercise of equity awards. Net cash used in financing activities in 2012 reflects scheduled payments on our long-term debt of $3.0 million, repurchase of common shares for treasury of $15.9 million under our stock repurchase program and dividend payments of $16.9 million. These cash outflows were partially offset by net proceeds on the exercise of stock awards of $15.1 million and proceeds received from noncontrolling interests of $2.4 million related to the start-up of our joint venture in Saudi Arabia. 32 POLYONE CORPORATION Total Debt The following summarizes our debt as of December 31, 2014 and 2013. (Dollars in millions) 7.500% debentures due 2015 Revolving credit facility due 2018 7.375% senior notes due 2020 5.250% senior notes due 2023 Other debt Total debt Less: short-term and current portion of long-term debt Total long-term debt, net of current portion December 31, 2014 December 31, 2013 $ 48.7 45.0 316.6 600.0 13.5 $1,023.8 61.8 $ 962.0 $ 48.7 — 316.6 600.0 23.6 $988.9 12.7 $976.2 During the first quarter of 2014, we repaid an $8.0 million industrial revenue bond that was assumed as a result of the Spartech acquisition. In 2013, we repurchased $43.4 million aggregate principal amount of our 7.375% senior notes due 2020, $1.3 million aggregate principal amount of our 7.50% debentures due 2015 and $1.6 million of other debt. Additionally, we recognized $5.2 million of debt extinguishment costs within Debt extinguishment costs in our Consolidated Statements of Income in connection with these repurchases. On February 28, 2013, PolyOne issued $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior notes, which mature on March 15, 2023. The senior notes bear an interest rate of 5.25% per year, payable semi-annually, in arrears, on March 15 and September 15 of each year, which commenced on September 15, 2013. We used a portion of the net proceeds of the offering to pay the cash portion of the Spartech acquisition, and to repay certain Spartech debt, including the $88.9 million aggregate principal amount of its senior notes due 2016 and related interest and make-whole payments totaling $13.4 million and all outstanding amounts under its revolving credit facility. We also used a portion of these net proceeds to make a voluntary $50.0 million contribution to our U.S. qualified defined benefit plan and to repay the outstanding principal amount of $297.0 million under our senior secured term loan. We incurred debt extinguishment costs of $10.6 million related to the early retirement of our senior secured term loan including $8.2 million of deferred financing cost write-offs and $2.4 million of discounts that were written off. These costs are presented within Debt extinguishment costs in our Consolidated Statements of Income. On March 1, 2013, the agreement governing our $300.0 million five-year senior secured revolving credit facility was amended and restated. The amendment and restatement resulted in an increase in commitments of $100.0 million for a maximum facility size of $400.0 million, subject to a borrowing base with advances against certain U.S. and Canadian accounts receivable and inventory. We have the option to increase the availability under the facility to $450.0 million, subject to meeting certain requirements and obtaining commitments for such increase. In connection with the amendment and restatement, we also extended the maturity date to March 1, 2018. As of December 31, 2014, we were in compliance with all covenants and there were $45.0 million of outstanding borrowings under our asset-backed revolving credit facility, which had remaining availability of $233.7 million. The Company maintains a credit line with Saudi Hollandi Bank for $16.0 million, with an interest rate equal to the Saudi Arabia Interbank Offered Rate plus a fixed rate of 0.85%. The credit line is being used to fund capital expenditures related to the manufacturing facility in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and is subject to an annual renewal. As of December 31, 2014, letters of credit under the credit line were $0.2 million and borrowings were $13.1 million with an interest rate of 1.85%. As of December 31, 2014, there was remaining availability on the credit line of $2.7 million. For additional information about our financing arrangements, see Note 6, Financing Arrangements, to the accompanying consolidated financial statements. POLYONE CORPORATION 33 Concentrations of Credit Risk Financial instruments, including foreign exchange contracts, and trade accounts receivable, subject us to potential credit risk. Concentration of credit risk for trade accounts receivable is limited due to the large number of customers constituting our customer base and their distribution among many industries and geographic locations. We are exposed to credit risk with respect to foreign exchange contracts in the event of non-performance by the counter-parties to these financial instruments. We believe that the risk of incurring material losses related to this credit risk is remote. We do not require collateral to support the financial position of our credit risks. Guarantee of Indebtedness of Others On February 28, 2011, we sold our 50% equity interest in SunBelt to Olin for $132.3 million in cash and the assumption by Olin of the obligations under our guarantee of senior secured notes issued by SunBelt of $42.7 million at the time of sale, $18.3 million as of December 31, 2014. Unless the guarantee is formally assigned to Olin, we remain obligated under the guarantee, although Olin has agreed to indemnify us for amounts that we may be obligated to pay under the guarantee. These notes mature in December 2017. Letters of Credit Our revolving credit facility provides up to $50.0 million for the issuance of letters of credit, $12.9 million of which was used at December 31, 2014. These letters of credit are issued by the bank in favor of third parties and are mainly related to insurance claims. Contractual Cash Obligations The following table summarizes our obligations under debt agreements, operating leases, interest obligations, pension and other post-retirement plan obligations and purchase obligations as of December 31, 2014: (In millions) Total 2015 2016 & 2017 2018 & 2019 Thereafter Total debt (1) Operating leases Interest on long-term debt obligations (2) Pension and post-retirement obligations (3) Purchase obligations (4) Total $1,023.8 $ 61.8 25.6 60.0 26.1 15.8 88.5 419.8 79.3 23.2 $1,634.6 $189.3 $ — 32.2 114.4 12.2 7.4 $166.2 $ 45.2 16.2 111.0 12.2 — $ 916.8 14.5 134.4 28.8 — $184.6 $1,094.5 Payment Due by Period (1) Total debt includes both the current and long-term portions of debt, as reported in Note 6, Financing Arrangements, to the consolidated financial statements. (2) Represents estimated contractual interest payments for all outstanding debt. (3) Pension and post-retirement obligations relate to our U.S. and international pension and other post-retirement plans. The expected payments associated with these plans represent an actuarial estimate of future assumed payments based upon retirement and payment patterns. Due to uncertainties regarding the assumptions involved in estimating future required contributions to our pension and non-pension postretirement benefit plans, including: (i) interest rate levels, (ii) the amount and timing of asset returns and (iii) what, if any, changes may occur in pension funding legislation, the estimates in the table may differ materially from actual future payments. (4) Purchase obligations are primarily comprised of service agreements related to telecommunication, information technology, utilities and other manufacturing plant services and certain capital commitments. The table also excludes the liability for unrecognized income tax benefits, since we cannot predict with reasonable certainty the timing of cash settlements, if any, with the respective taxing authorities. At December 31, 2014, the gross liability for unrecognized income tax benefits, including interest and penalties, totaled $37.2 million. 34 POLYONE CORPORATION Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements We have no off-balance sheet arrangements as defined in Item 303(a)(4)(ii) of Regulation S-K other than the SunBelt debt guarantee described previously in the Guarantee of Indebtedness of Others section. Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates Significant accounting policies are described more fully in Note 1, Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to the accompanying consolidated financial statements. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP) requires us to make estimates and assumptions about future events that affect the amounts reported in our consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. We base our estimates on historical experience and assumptions that we believe are reasonable considering the related facts and circumstances. The application of these critical accounting policies involves the exercise of judgment and use of assumptions for future uncertainties. Accordingly, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. We believe that the following discussion addresses our most critical accounting policies, which are those that are the most important to the portrayal of our financial condition and results of operations and require our most difficult, subjective and complex judgments. Description Judgments and Uncertainties Effect if Actual Results Differ from Assumptions immediately Pension and Other Post-retirement Plans Š We account for our defined benefit pension plans and other post-retirement plans in accordance with FASB ASC Topic Compensation — Retirement 715, Benefits. We recognize actuarial gains and losses in our operating results in the year in which the gains or In 2014, we recognized a losses occur. the $56.5 million charge as a result of recognition of these actuarial losses, which unfavorably impacted our statement of income, comprehensive income, and the funded status of our pension plans. This charge was mainly driven by a decrease in discount rates and updated mortality assumptions. statement of returns and interest Š Asset rates significantly affect the value of future assets and liabilities of our pension and post-retirement plans and therefore the funded status of our plans. It is difficult to predict these factors due to the volatility of market conditions. Š To develop our discount rate, we consider the yields of high-quality, fixed- income investments with maturities that correspond to the timing of our benefit obligations. returns Š To develop our expected long-term return on plan assets, we consider historical and forward looking long-term asset expected and investment portfolio mix of plan assets. The weighted-average expected long- term rate of return on plan assets was 6.86% for 2014, 8.41% for 2013 and 8.43% 2012. the Š Life expectancy is a significant impacts our pension assumption that and other post-retirement benefits obligation. During 2014, we adopted the RP-2014 mortality table which was issued by the Society of Actuaries in October 2014. the operating segment Š We have identified our reporting units level, or in at some cases, one level below the is operating segment level. Goodwill Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Š Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net assets of acquired companies. We follow the Intangibles — guidance in ASC 350, Š The weighted average discount rates used to value our pension liabilities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 were 3.88% and 4.83%, post-retirement liabilities were 3.75% and 4.38%. As of December 31, 2014, an increase/decrease in the rate of 50 basis points, discount assumptions other all holding constant, would have increased or decreased pre-tax income and the related pension and post-retirement liability $28.0 million. An increase/decrease in the discount rate of 50 basis points as of December 31, 2014 would result in a change of approximately $1.5 million in the 2015 net periodic benefit cost. approximately by Š As we recognize returns on our plan assets based upon the actual these assets through a returns of that mark-to-market adjustment is recorded quarter, fourth therefore no sensitivity analysis for a one percentage increase/decrease in our expected long-term return on plan assets has been provided. the in Š If actual results are not consistent with our assumptions and estimates, we may be exposed to additional goodwill impairment charges. POLYONE CORPORATION 35 Description Judgments and Uncertainties Effect if Actual Results Differ from Assumptions our 2014 on test, no reporting unit Š Based annual impairment is considered at risk of impairment and the majority of our the fair value of reporting units significantly exceeded the corresponding carrying value. Š If actual results are not consistent with our assumptions and estimates, we may be exposed to impairment charges related to our indefinite lived trade names. on Š Based annual our impairment test, no trade names were considered at risk. 2014 Š Although management believes that the estimates and judgments discussed herein are reasonable, actual results could differ, which could result in income tax expense or benefits that could be material. Goodwill and Other, and test goodwill for least annually, absent a impairment at triggering event that would warrant an impairment assessment. On an ongoing basis, absent any impairment indicators, we perform our goodwill impairment testing as of the first day of October of each year. allocated to the reporting units based on the estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. Š We estimated fair value using the best information available to us, including market information and discounted cash flow projections also referred to as the income approach. and economic growth and assumptions projected conditions, margins Š The income approach requires us to estimates make and regarding rates, market cash operating expenditures. Sensitivity analyses were performed around these assumptions in order to assess the reasonableness of the assumptions and the resulting estimated fair values. Š We estimate the fair value of trade names using a “relief from royalty payments” approach. This approach involves two steps: (1) estimating reasonable royalty rate for the trade name and (2) applying this royalty rate to a net sales stream and discounting the resulting cash flows to determine fair value. Fair value is then compared the trade with the carrying value of name. Š The ultimate recovery of certain of our deferred tax assets is dependent on the amount and timing of taxable income that we will ultimately generate in the future and other factors such as the interpretation of tax laws. This means that significant estimates and judgments are required to determine the extent that valuation allowances should be provided against deferred tax assets. We have provided valuation allowances as of December 31, 2014, aggregating to $23.6 million against such assets based on our current assessment of future operating results and At other December 31, 2014, the gross liability for unrecognized income tax benefits, including interest and penalties, totaled $37.2 million. factors. these 31, 2014, December Š At our Consolidated Balance Sheet reflected $96.3 million of indefinite lived trade name assets, which includes, $33.2 million associated with the trade name acquired as part of the acquisition of GLS and $63.1 million associated with trade names acquired as part of the ColorMatrix acquisition. Income Taxes Š We account for income taxes using the asset and liability method under ASC Topic 740. Under the asset and liability method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the estimated future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. In addition, deferred tax assets are also recorded with respect to net operating losses and other tax attribute carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Valuation established when realization of the benefit of deferred tax assets is not deemed to be more likely than not. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. allowances are Š We recognize net tax benefits under the recognition and measurement criteria of ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes, which prescribes requirements and other guidance recognition and for or taken measurement financial statement positions of 36 POLYONE CORPORATION Description Judgments and Uncertainties Effect if Actual Results Differ from Assumptions expected to be taken on tax returns. We record interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions as a component of income tax expense. such provision Environmental Liabilities Š Based upon our estimates, we have $121.1 million accrued at December 31, 2014 for probable future environmental expenditures. Any is recognized using the Company’s best estimate of the amount of loss incurred, or at the lower end of an estimated range, when a single best estimate is not determinable. In some cases, the Company recovers a portion of the costs relating to these obligations from insurers or other the Company third parties; however, is records such amounts only when it probable that they will be collected. future testing, Š This accrual represents our best estimate of the remaining probable costs based upon information and technology currently available. Depending upon the results of the ultimate remediation alternatives undertaken, changes in regulations, new information, newly discovered conditions and other factors, it is reasonably possible that we could incur additional costs in excess of the amount accrued. However, such additional costs, if any, cannot currently this be estimated. Our estimate of liability may be revised as new regulations are developed or additional information is obtained. technologies or further Š If or developments resolution of these matters are not consistent with our assumptions and judgments, we may need to recognize a significant adjustment in a future period. in Note noted Š As 13, Commitments and Contingencies, we recorded a $47.0 million adjustment in 2013 related to our ongoing remedial investigation and feasibility study (RIFS) at Calvert City. As we progress through certain benchmarks such as completion of the RIFS, issuance of a record of decision and remedial information may design, additional become available that requires an adjustment to our existing reserves. Share-Based Compensation Š We have share-based compensation plans that include non-qualified stock options, incentive stock options, restricted stock units, performance shares and stock appreciation rights (SARs). See Note 15, to Share-Based Compensation, the accompanying financial consolidated statements for a complete discussion of our stock-based compensation programs. Š We determined the fair value of the SARs granted based on a Monte Carlo simulation method. Š Option-pricing models and generally accepted valuation techniques require management to make assumptions and to apply judgment to determine the fair value of our awards. These assumptions and judgments include estimating the future volatility of our stock price, future forfeiture rates and risk-free rates of return. Š We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood there will be a material change in the future estimates or assumptions we use to determine share-based compensation expense. Future Adoption of Accounting Standards In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-08, “Presentation of Financial Statements and Property, Plant, and Equipment,” which revises what qualifies as a discontinued operation, changes the criteria for determining which disposals can be presented as discontinued operations and modifies related disclosure requirements. This ASU will be effective for the Company for applicable transactions occurring after January 1, 2015. We will prospectively apply the guidance to applicable transactions. In May 2014, the FASB issued a new standard regarding revenue recognition. Under this standard, a company recognizes revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The standard implements a five-step process for customer contract revenue recognition that focuses on transfer of control. It will be effective for us beginning January 1, 2017, with early adoption not permitted. Entities can transition to the standard either retrospectively or as a cumulative- effect adjustment as of the date of adoption. We are currently assessing the impact this standard will have on our consolidated financial statements as well as the method by which we will adopt the new standard. POLYONE CORPORATION 37 ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK We are exposed to certain market risks as part of our ongoing business operations, including risks from changes in interest rates on debt obligations and foreign currency exchange rates that could impact our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. We manage our exposure to these and other market risks through regular operating and financing activities, including the use of derivative financial instruments. We intend to use these derivative financial instruments as risk management tools and not for speculative investment purposes. Interest rate exposure — Interest on our asset-backed revolving credit facility is based upon a Prime rate or LIBOR, plus a margin. Interest on the credit line with Saudi Hollandi Bank is based upon SAIBOR plus a fixed rate of 0.85%. All other debt obligations are primarily fixed rate obligations. There would be no material impact on our interest expense or cash flows from either a 10% increase or decrease in market rates of interest on our outstanding variable rate debt as of December 31, 2014. Foreign currency exposure — We enter into intercompany lending transactions that are denominated in various foreign currencies and are subject to financial exposure from foreign exchange rate movement from the date a loan is recorded to the date it is settled or revalued. To mitigate this risk, we enter into foreign exchange forward contracts, which had a fair value of less than $0.1 million at December 31, 2014. Gains and losses on these contracts generally offset gains and losses on the assets and liabilities being hedged. We face translation risks related to the changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Amounts invested in our foreign operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. The resulting translation adjustments are recorded as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive loss in the Shareholders’ equity section of the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets. Net sales and expenses in our foreign operations’ foreign currencies are translated into varying amounts of U.S. dollars depending upon whether the U.S. dollar weakens or strengthens against other currencies. Therefore, changes in exchange rates may either positively or negatively affect our net sales and expenses from foreign operations as expressed in U.S. dollars. 38 POLYONE CORPORATION ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA Index to Financial Statements Management’s Report Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm Consolidated Financial Statements: Consolidated Statements of Income Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income Consolidated Balance Sheets Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements Page 40 41-42 43 44 45 46 47 48-78 POLYONE CORPORATION 39 MANAGEMENT’S REPORT The management of PolyOne Corporation is responsible for preparing the consolidated financial statements and disclosures included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The consolidated financial statements and disclosures included in this Annual Report fairly present in all material respects the consolidated financial position, results of operations, shareholders’ equity and cash flows of PolyOne Corporation as of and for the year ended December 31, 2014. Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that the information required to be disclosed by the Company is captured and reported in a timely manner. Management has evaluated the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures at December 31, 2014 and found them to be effective. Management is also responsible for establishing and maintaining a system of internal control over financial reporting that is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Internal control over financial reporting includes policies and procedures that provide reasonable assurance that: PolyOne Corporation’s accounting records the Company; the transactions and dispositions of accurately and fairly reflect unauthorized or improper acquisition, use or disposal of Company assets will be prevented or timely detected; the Company’s transactions are properly recorded and reported to permit the preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles; and the Company’s receipts and expenditures are made only in accordance with authorizations of management and the Board of Directors of the Company. the assets of Management has assessed the effectiveness of PolyOne’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014 and has prepared Management’s Annual Report On Internal Control Over this Annual Report, which concludes that as of Financial Reporting contained on page 79 of December 31, 2014, PolyOne’s internal control over financial reporting is effective and that no material weaknesses were identified. /s/ ROBERT M. PATTERSON /s/ BRADLEY C. RICHARDSON Robert M. Patterson President and Chief Executive Officer Bradley C. Richardson Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer February 13, 2015 40 POLYONE CORPORATION REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM The Board of Directors and Shareholders of PolyOne Corporation We have audited PolyOne Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria). is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over PolyOne Corporation’s management financial reporting, and for its assessment of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying “Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting”. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. the effectiveness of We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight to obtain Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. In our opinion, PolyOne Corporation maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on the COSO criteria. We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of PolyOne Corporation as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014 and our report dated February 13, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon. /s/ Ernst & Young LLP Cleveland, Ohio February 13, 2015 POLYONE CORPORATION 41 REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM The Board of Directors and Shareholders of PolyOne Corporation We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of PolyOne Corporation as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of PolyOne Corporation at December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), PolyOne Corporation’s internal control over reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) and our report dated February 13, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon. financial /s/ Ernst & Young LLP Cleveland, Ohio February 13, 2015 42 POLYONE CORPORATION Consolidated Statements of Income (In millions, except per share data) Sales Cost of sales Gross margin Selling and administrative expense Income related to previously owned equity affiliates Operating income Interest expense, net Debt extinguishment costs Other expense, net Income from continuing operations, before income taxes Income tax expense Net income from continuing operations Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes Net income Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Year Ended December 31, 2014 2013 2012 $ 3,835.5 3,127.6 $ 3,771.2 $ 3,109.0 2,860.8 2,329.7 707.9 552.8 — 155.1 (62.2) — (4.5) 88.4 (11.2) 77.2 1.2 78.4 0.8 662.2 457.6 26.9 231.5 (63.5) (15.8) (1.2) 151.0 (58.1) 92.9 149.8 242.7 1.1 531.1 417.0 23.4 137.5 (50.8) — (3.4) 83.3 (30.1) 53.2 18.6 71.8 0.1 71.9 0.60 0.21 0.81 0.59 0.21 0.80 Net income attributable to PolyOne common shareholders $ 79.2 $ 243.8 $ Earnings per share attributable to PolyOne common shareholders — basic: Continuing operations Discontinued operations Total $ $ Earnings per share attributable to PolyOne common shareholders — diluted: Continuing operations Discontinued operations Total Cash dividends declared per common share Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding: Basic Diluted $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 0.85 0.01 0.86 0.83 0.02 0.85 0.34 92.3 93.5 The accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements. 0.98 $ 1.57 2.55 $ 0.97 $ 1.56 2.53 $ 0.26 $ 0.20 95.5 96.5 89.1 89.8 POLYONE CORPORATION 43 Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (In millions) Net income Other comprehensive loss: Translation adjustments Amortization of prior service credits, net of tax of $6.5 - 2012 Total other comprehensive loss Total comprehensive income Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Year Ended December 31, 2014 2013 2012 $ 78.4 $ 242.7 $ 71.8 (27.5) — (27.5) 50.9 0.8 (3.7) — (3.7) 239.0 1.1 1.1 (10.9) (9.8) 62.0 0.1 Comprehensive income attributable to PolyOne common shareholders $ 51.7 $ 240.1 $ 62.1 The accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements. 44 POLYONE CORPORATION Consolidated Balance Sheets (In millions, except par value per share) ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents Accounts receivable, net Inventories, net Other current assets Total current assets Property, net Goodwill Intangible assets, net Other non-current assets Total assets LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY Current liabilities: Short-term and current portion of long-term debt Accounts payable Accrued expenses and other liabilities Total current liabilities Long-term debt Pension and other post-retirement benefits Deferred income taxes Other non-current liabilities Total non-current liabilities SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY Preferred stock, 40.0 shares authorized, no shares issued Common Shares, $0.01 par, 400.0 shares authorized, 122.2 shares issued Additional paid-in capital Retained earnings Common shares held in treasury, at cost, 32.9 shares in 2014 and 27.1 shares in 2013 Accumulated other comprehensive loss Total PolyOne shareholders’ equity Noncontrolling interest Total equity Total liabilities and equity Year Ended December 31, 2014 2013 $ $ 238.6 396.8 309.0 98.3 1,042.7 596.7 590.6 362.7 118.5 365.2 428.0 342.5 117.9 1,253.6 646.2 559.0 365.8 119.5 $ 2,711.2 $ 2,944.1 $ $ 61.8 365.9 173.5 601.2 962.0 103.7 88.8 178.3 12.7 386.9 209.3 608.9 976.2 77.3 133.8 169.4 1,332.8 1,356.7 — 1.2 1,155.4 259.7 (597.7) (42.3) 776.3 0.9 777.2 — 1.2 1,149.8 211.6 (371.0) (14.8) 976.8 1.7 978.5 $ 2,711.2 $ 2,944.1 The accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements. POLYONE CORPORATION 45 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (In millions) Operating activities Net income Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Year Ended December 31, 2014 2013 2012 $ 78.4 $ 242.7 $ 71.8 Depreciation and amortization Deferred income tax provision Debt extinguishment costs Provision for doubtful accounts Stock compensation expense Gain on sale of business Income related to previously owned equity affiliates Changes in assets and liabilities, net of the effect of acquisitions and divestitures: Decrease in accounts receivable Decrease (increase) in inventories (Decrease) increase in accounts payable Increase (decrease) in pension and other post-retirement benefits (Decrease) increase in accrued expenses and other assets and liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Investing activities Capital expenditures Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired Proceeds from sale of businesses and other assets Net cash used by investing activities Financing activities Repayment of long-term debt Premium on early extinguishment of long-term debt Proceeds from long-term debt Debt financing costs Borrowing under credit facilities Repayment under credit facilities Purchase of common shares for treasury Exercise of stock awards Cash dividends paid Proceeds from noncontrolling interests Net cash (used) provided by financing activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash (Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 123.9 (45.2) — 0.4 14.2 (1.2) — 24.4 28.4 (15.2) 30.0 (29.7) 208.4 (92.8) (47.2) 28.2 (111.8) (8.0) — — — 168.6 (122.8) (233.2) 6.9 (29.9) — (218.4) (4.8) (126.6) 365.2 109.8 12.9 15.8 0.2 16.5 (223.7) (26.9) 26.9 20.4 (16.6) (124.5) 55.5 109.0 (76.4) (259.4) 275.7 (60.1) (343.3) (4.6) 600.0 (13.0) 129.0 (117.5) (131.6) 7.3 (21.5) — 104.8 1.5 155.2 210.0 69.8 13.4 — 0.3 10.4 — (23.4) 1.2 (3.0) 16.8 (41.7) (8.7) 106.9 (57.4) (33.8) 18.9 (72.3) (3.0) — — — 0.8 — (15.9) 15.1 (16.9) 2.4 (17.5) 1.0 18.1 191.9 Cash and cash equivalents at end of year $ 238.6 $ 365.2 $ 210.0 The accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements. 46 POLYONE CORPORATION Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity Common Shares Common Shares Held in Treasury Common Shares Shareholders’ Equity Common Shares Additional Paid-in Capital Retained Earnings (Deficit) Common Shares Held in Treasury Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Total PolyOne shareholders’ equity Non- controlling Interests Total equity 122.2 (33.4) $ 1.2 $ 1,042.7 $ (84.9) $ (369.4) $ (1.3) $ 588.3 — $ 588.3 71.9 (9.8) (1.2) 1.9 (17.8) (8.8) (15.9) 21.2 71.9 (9.8) (17.8) (15.9) 12.4 (0.1) 71.8 2.4 (9.8) 2.4 (17.8) (15.9) 12.4 122.2 (32.7) $ 1.2 $ 1,016.1 $ (13.0) $ (364.1) $ (11.1) $ 629.1 $ 2.3 $ 631.4 243.8 243.8 (1.1) 242.7 (3.7) (3.7) 0.5 10.0 136.6 117.2 (5.0) 0.6 (5.4) (19.2) (131.6) 2.5 7.5 253.8 (24.6) (131.6) 10.0 (3.7) 0.5 253.8 (24.6) (131.6) 10.0 122.2 (27.1) $ 1.2 $ 1,149.8 $ 211.6 $ (371.0) $ (14.8) $ 976.8 $ 1.7 $ 978.5 79.2 (31.1) (6.3) 0.5 (233.2) 5.6 6.5 79.2 (0.8) 78.4 (27.5) (27.5) (31.1) (233.2) 12.1 (27.5) (31.1) (233.2) 12.1 122.2 (32.9) $ 1.2 $ 1,155.4 $ 259.7 $ (597.7) $ (42.3) $ 776.3 $ 0.9 $ 777.2 (In millions) Balance at January 1, 2012 Net income (loss) Other comprehensive income (loss) Noncontrolling interest activity Cash dividends declared Repurchase of common shares Stock-based compensation and exercise of awards Balance at December 31, 2012 Net income (loss) Other comprehensive income (loss) Noncontrolling interest activity Shares issued in connection with acquisitions Cash dividends declared Repurchase of common shares Stock-based compensation and exercise of awards Balance at December 31, 2013 Net income (loss) Other comprehensive income (loss) Cash dividends declared Repurchase of common shares Stock-based compensation and exercise of awards Balance at December 31, 2014 The accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements. POLYONE CORPORATION 47 NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Note 1 — DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Description of Business We are a premier provider of specialized polymer materials, services and solutions with operations in specialty polymer formulations, color and additive systems, plastic sheet and packaging solutions, and polymer distribution. We are also a highly specialized developer and manufacturer of performance enhancing additives, liquid colorants, and fluoropolymer and silicone colorants. Headquartered in Avon Lake, Ohio, we have employees at manufacturing sites and distribution facilities in North America, South America, Europe, Asia and Africa. We provide value to our customers through our ability to link our knowledge of polymers and formulation technology with our manufacturing and supply chain to provide value added solutions to designers, assemblers and processors of plastics (our customers). When used in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the terms “we,” “us,” “our”, “PolyOne” and the “Company” mean PolyOne Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries. Our operations are located primarily in North America, Europe, Asia and Brazil. Our operations are reported in five reportable segments: Global Color, Additives and Inks; Global Specialty Engineered Materials; Designed Structures and Solutions; Performance Products and Solutions; and PolyOne Distribution. See Note 16, Segment Information, for more information. On December 1, 2014, the Company completed the acquisition of specialty assets of Accella liquid polymer Performance Materials (Accella), a leading North American manufacturer of formulations. The Accella acquisition expands PolyOne’s specialty portfolio and provides specialty coatings solutions and value-added services in a wide range of applications, including consumer products, interior and under-the-hood automotive parts, outdoor recreational equipment and food packaging. Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-08, “Presentation of Financial Statements and Property, Plant, and Equipment,” which revises what qualifies as a discontinued operation, changes the criteria for determining which disposals can be presented as discontinued operations and modifies related disclosure requirements. This ASU will be effective for the Company for applicable transactions occurring after January 1, 2015. We will prospectively apply the guidance to applicable transactions. In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Auditing Standards Update 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” (ASU 2014-09). Under this standard, a company recognizes revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The standard implements a five-step process for customer contract revenue recognition that focuses on transfer of control. It will be effective for us beginning January 1, 2017, with early adoption not permitted. Entities can transition to the standard either retrospectively or as a cumulative-effect adjustment as of the date of adoption. We are currently assessing the impact this standard will have on our consolidated financial statements as well as the method by which we will adopt the new standard. Consolidation and Basis of Presentation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of PolyOne and its subsidiaries. All majority-owned affiliates over which we have control are consolidated. Transactions with related parties, including joint ventures, are in the ordinary course of business. Reclassifications Certain reclassifications of the prior period amounts and presentation have been made to conform to the presentation for the current period. 48 POLYONE CORPORATION Use of Estimates Preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions in certain circumstances that affect amounts reported in the accompanying consolidated financial statements and notes. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Cash and Cash Equivalents We consider all highly liquid investments purchased with a maturity of less than three months to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents are stated at cost, which approximates fair value. Allowance for Doubtful Accounts We evaluate the collectability of receivables based on a combination of factors. We regularly analyze significant customer accounts and, when we become aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations to us, such as in the case of a bankruptcy filing or deterioration in the customer’s operating results or financial position, we record a specific allowance for bad debt to reduce the related receivable to the amount we reasonably believe is collectible. We also record bad debt allowances for all other customers based on a variety of factors including the length of time the receivables are past due, the financial health of the customer, economic conditions and historical experience. In estimating the allowances, we take into consideration the existence of credit insurance. If circumstances related to specific customers change, our estimates of the recoverability of receivables could be adjusted further. Accounts receivable balances are written off against the allowance for doubtful accounts after a final determination of uncollectability has been made. Inventories External purchases of raw materials and finished goods are valued at weighted average cost. Manufactured finished goods are stated at the lower of cost or market using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Long-lived Assets Property, plant and equipment is carried at cost, net of depreciation and amortization that is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which generally ranges from 3 to 15 years for machinery and equipment and up to 40 years for buildings. During 2013 and 2014, we depreciated certain assets associated with closing manufacturing locations over a shortened life (through a cease-use date). Software is amortized over periods not exceeding 10 years. Property, plant and equipment is generally depreciated on accelerated methods for income tax purposes. We expense repair and maintenance costs as incurred. We capitalize replacements and betterments that increase the estimated useful life of an asset. We retain fully depreciated assets in property and accumulated depreciation accounts until we remove them from service. In the case of sale, retirement or disposal, the asset cost and related accumulated depreciation balance is removed from the respective account, and the resulting net amount, less any proceeds, is included as a component of income from continuing operations in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income. We account for operating leases under the provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 840, Leases. Finite-lived intangible assets, which consist primarily of customer relationships, patents and technology are amortized over their estimated useful lives. The remaining useful lives range up to 22 years. We assess the recoverability of long-lived assets when events or changes in circumstances indicate that we may not be able to recover the assets’ carrying amount. We measure the recoverability of POLYONE CORPORATION 49 assets to be held and used by a comparison of the carrying amount of the asset to the expected future undiscounted cash flows associated with the asset. We measure the amount of impairment of long- lived assets as the amount by which the carrying value of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset, which is generally determined based on projected discounted future cash flows or appraised values. Goodwill and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price paid over the fair value of the net assets of the acquired business. Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level. Our reporting units have been identified at the operating segment level, or in some cases, one level below the operating segment level. Goodwill is allocated to the reporting units based on the estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. Our annual measurement date for testing impairment of goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangibles is October 1st. We completed our testing of impairment as of October 1, noting no impairment in 2014, 2013 or 2012. The future occurrence of a potential indicator of impairment would require an interim assessment for some or all of the reporting units prior to the next required annual assessment on October 1, 2015. Refer to Note 19, Fair Value, for further discussion of our approach for assessing the fair value of goodwill. Litigation Reserves FASB ASC Topic 450, Contingencies, requires that we accrue for loss contingencies associated with outstanding litigation, claims and assessments for which management has determined it is probable that a loss contingency exists and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. We record expense associated with professional fees related to litigation claims and assessments as incurred. Refer to Note 13, Commitments and Contingencies, for further information. Derivative Financial Instruments FASB ASC Topic 815, Derivative and Hedging, requires that all derivative financial instruments, such as foreign exchange contracts, be recognized in the financial statements and measured at fair value, regardless of the purpose or intent in holding them. We are exposed to foreign currency changes in the normal course of business. We have established policies and procedures that manage this exposure through the use of financial instruments. By policy, we do not enter into these instruments for trading purposes or speculation. These instruments are not designated as hedges and, as a result, are adjusted to fair value, with the resulting gains and losses recognized in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income immediately. Pension and Other Post-retirement Plans We account for our pensions and other post-retirement benefits in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 715, Compensation — Retirement Benefits. This standard requires us to (1) recognize the funded status of the benefit plans in our Consolidated Balance Sheet, (2) recognize, as a component of other comprehensive income or net periodic benefit cost, the gains or losses and prior service costs or credits that arise during the period and (3) measure defined benefit plan assets and obligations as of December 31. We immediately recognize actuarial gains and losses in our operating results in the year in which the gains or losses occur. Refer to Note 12, Employee Benefit Plans, for more information. 50 POLYONE CORPORATION Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss in 2014, 2013 and 2012 were as follows: (In millions) Cumulative Translation Adjustment Pension and other post- retirement benefits Unrealized gain in available- for-sale securities Balance at January 1, 2012 Translation adjustments Prior service credits recognized during the year, net of tax of $ (17.6) $ 1.1 $ 16.1 — — (10.9) (16.5) (3.7) (20.2) (27.5) $ (47.7) $ 5.2 — 5.2 — 5.2 $ Total $ (1.3) 1.1 (10.9) (11.1) (3.7) (14.8) (27.5) $ (42.3) 0.2 — — 0.2 — 0.2 — 0.2 $6.5 Balance at December 31, 2012 Translation adjustments Balance at December 31, 2013 Translation adjustments Balance at December 31, 2014 Fair Value of Financial Instruments FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, requires disclosures of the fair value of financial instruments. The estimated fair values of financial instruments were principally based on market prices where such prices were available and, where unavailable, fair values were estimated based on market prices of similar instruments. See Note 19, Fair Value, for further discussion. Foreign Currency Translation Revenues and expenses are translated at average currency exchange rates during the related period. Assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries are translated using the exchange rate at the end of the period. The resulting translation adjustments are recorded as accumulated other comprehensive income or loss. Gains and losses resulting from foreign currency transactions, including intercompany transactions that are not considered permanent investments, are included in Other expense, net in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income. Revenue Recognition We recognize revenue when the revenue is realized or realizable and has been earned. We recognize revenue when a firm sales agreement is in place, shipment has occurred and collectability is reasonably assured. Shipping and Handling Costs Shipping and handling costs are included in cost of sales. Research and Development Expense Research and development costs from continuing operations, which were $53.4 million in 2014, $52.6 million in 2013 and $41.3 million in 2012, are charged to expense as incurred. Environmental Costs We expense costs that are associated with managing hazardous substances and pollution in ongoing operations on a current basis. Costs associated with environmental contamination are accrued when it becomes probable that a liability has been incurred and our proportionate share of the cost can be POLYONE CORPORATION 51 reasonably estimated. Any such provision is recognized using the Company’s best estimate of the amount of loss incurred, or at the lower end of an estimated range, when a single best estimate is not determinable. In some cases, the Company may be able to recover a portion of the costs relating to these obligations from insurers or other third parties; however, the Company records such amounts only when it is probable that they will be collected. Share-Based Compensation for share-based compensation under the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 718, We account Compensation — Stock Compensation, which requires us to estimate the fair value of share-based awards on the date of grant. The value of the portion of the award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as expense over the requisite service periods in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income. As of December 31, 2014, we had one active share-based employee compensation plan, which is described more fully in Note 15, Share-Based Compensation. Income Taxes Deferred income tax liabilities and assets are determined based upon the differences between the financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities and are measured using the tax rate and laws currently in effect. In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes, we evaluate our deferred income taxes to determine whether a valuation allowance should be established against the deferred tax assets or whether the valuation allowance should be reduced based on consideration of all available evidence, both positive and negative, using a “more likely than not” standard. Note 2 — BUSINESS COMBINATIONS Accella Performance Materials the Company completed the acquisition of specialty assets of Accella On December 1, 2014, Performance Materials (Accella), a leading North American manufacturer of liquid polymer formulations, for approximately $47.2 million in cash, net of cash acquired. The results of operations of Accella were included in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income for the period subsequent to the date of the acquisition and are reported in the Global Color, Additives and Inks segment. The acquisition resulted in preliminary goodwill and intangible assets of $40.5 million. Goodwill recognized as a result of this acquisition is deductible for tax purposes. As of December 31, 2014, the entire purchase price allocation is preliminary. Spartech Corporation On March 13, 2013, PolyOne acquired Spartech Corporation (Spartech), a supplier of sustainable plastic sheet, color and engineered materials, and packaging solutions, based in Clayton, Missouri, with fiscal 2012 sales of $1,149.4 million and net income from continuing operations of $2.7 million. At the effective time of the merger, each issued and outstanding share of Spartech common shares was canceled and converted into the right to receive consideration equal to $2.67 in cash and 0.3167 shares of PolyOne common shares. PolyOne paid $83.4 million in cash and issued approximately 10.0 million shares of its common shares to Spartech’s stockholders. PolyOne funded the cash portion of the consideration, and the repayment of certain portions of Spartech’s debt, with a portion of the net its issuance of 5.25% senior notes due 2023, discussed in Note 6, Financing proceeds of Arrangements. The acquisition of Spartech has provided substantial synergies through enhanced operational cost efficiencies and has expanded PolyOne’s specialty portfolio. By combining Spartech’s leading market positions in sheet, rigid barrier packaging and specialty cast acrylics with PolyOne’s capabilities, we have been better able serve our customers and accelerate growth. 52 POLYONE CORPORATION Spartech’s results have been reflected within our Consolidated Statements of Income and within the Designed Structures and Solutions segment, as well as our existing Global Specialty Engineered Materials, Global Color, Additives and Inks and Performance Products and Solutions segments since the date of acquisition. Based on the closing price of PolyOne’s common stock on March 13, 2013, the purchase price was comprised of the following: (In millions, except stock price and share data) Spartech shares outstanding Spartech restricted stock units Spartech shares converted Exchange ratio PolyOne shares issued PolyOne closing stock price on March 13, 2013 Total value of PolyOne shares issued Cash consideration transferred to Spartech shareholders Fair value of Spartech equity awards, net of deferred tax benefits (1) Total consideration transferred to Spartech equity holders Spartech revolving credit facilities repaid at close (2) Spartech senior notes repaid at close (2) Total consideration transferred to debt and equity holders Cash acquired Total consideration transferred to debt and equity holders, net of cash acquired 31.2 0.2 31.4 0.3167 10.0 $ 25.05 $ 249.9 83.4 2.4 335.7 77.2 102.3 515.2 (4.1) $ 511.1 (1) (2) In accordance with ASC 718, Compensation — Stock Compensation, the fair value of replacement awards attributable to pre-combination service is recognized as part of purchase consideration. The $2.4 million represents the fair value of Spartech replacement equity awards of $3.9 million net of deferred income tax benefits of $1.5 million. The fair value of awards attributable to post-combination service amounted to $2.7 million and are being recognized as stock compensation over their requisite service periods within PolyOne’s Consolidated Statements of Income. In accordance with the provisions of Spartech’s 7.08% senior notes due 2016 and revolving credit facilities, at the time of closing, PolyOne repaid all borrowings under Spartech’s revolving credit facilities, which amounted to $77.2 million. Additionally, PolyOne repaid $102.3 million related to Spartech’s 7.08% senior notes due 2016, including $88.9 million of aggregated principal, $10.3 million make-whole provisions, and $3.1 million of interest payable. The acquisition of Spartech has been accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting, which requires, among other things, the assets acquired and liabilities assumed be recognized at their respective fair values as of the acquisition date. The purchase price allocation was finalized in the first quarter of 2014, following the completion of our assessment of contingencies and income taxes, which resulted in an increase to goodwill of $9.4 million. The 2013 consolidated financial statements have not been retroactively adjusted as these measurement period adjustments did not have a material impact on such statements. POLYONE CORPORATION 53 The following table summarizes PolyOne’s final fair value estimates at the acquisition date: (In millions) Accounts receivable Inventories Other current assets Property Other non-current assets Intangible assets Goodwill Total assets acquired Short-term and current portion of long-term debt Accounts payable Accrued expenses and other liabilities Long-term debt Other non-current liabilities Total liabilities assumed Net assets acquired Final allocation $139.7 114.4 18.6 280.3 19.6 44.6 162.6 779.8 0.5 105.0 43.1 11.0 109.1 268.7 $511.1 Goodwill is calculated as the excess of the consideration transferred over the assets acquired, and represents the estimated future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired that could not be individually identified and separately recognized. Goodwill has been allocated to the Designed Structures and Solutions, Global Color, Additives and Inks and Performance Products and Solutions segments. Goodwill recognized as a result of this acquisition is not deductible for tax purposes. See Note 3, Goodwill and Intangible Assets, for information about goodwill and intangible assets. The following unaudited pro forma information of PolyOne for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 includes Spartech’s operating results for the respective periods, as if the acquisition and related financing occurred on January 1, 2012. The following pro forma financial information is not necessarily indicative of the results of operations as they would have been had the transaction occurred on the assumed date, nor is it necessarily an indication of trends in future results for a number of reasons, including, but not limited to, differences between the assumptions used to prepare the pro forma information, cost savings from operating efficiencies, potential synergies, and the impact of incremental costs incurred in integrating the businesses. (In millions) Sales Net income from continuing operations Year Ended December 31, Pro Forma 2013 Pro Forma 2012 $3,989.2 94.7 $ $4,006.9 56.5 $ to adjustments that are: The unaudited pro forma financial information presented in the table above has been adjusted to give effect factually supportable; and (3) expected to have a continuing impact. These adjustments include, but are not limited to, depreciation and amortization related to fair value adjustments to property, plant and equipment and intangible assets, and interest expense on acquisition-related debt. (1) directly related to the business combination; (2) In 2013, we incurred acquisition-related costs totaling of $7.6 million which have been included within selling and administrative expense in our Consolidated Statements of Income. Glasforms On December 19, 2012, PolyOne acquired all of the outstanding equity of Glasforms Inc. (Glasforms), a leading manufacturer of glass and carbon fiber reinforced polymers and advanced composite products, with 2012 annual sales of $51.1 million. The purchase marks PolyOne’s entry into advanced 54 POLYONE CORPORATION composite technology, an adjacency consistent with the Company’s strategy of providing specialty solutions that deliver high value to customers. The acquisition date fair value of the consideration transferred was $34.3 million, net of cash acquired of $1.2 million. Glasforms results have been reflected within our Consolidated Statement of Income and within our Global Specialty Engineered Materials Segment since the date of acquisition. The acquisition resulted in goodwill of $12.4 million and $10.7 million of identifiable intangible assets. In 2012, we incurred acquisition-related costs totaling of $3.9 million which have been included within Selling and administrative expense in our Consolidated Statement of Income. Note 3 — GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS The total purchase price associated with acquisitions is allocated to the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their fair values at the acquisition date, with excess amounts recorded as goodwill. Goodwill as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by segment were as follows: Global Specialty Engineered Materials Global Color, Additives and Inks Designed Structures and Solutions Performance Products and Solutions PolyOne Distribution Total (In millions) Goodwill, gross at January 1, 2013 Accumulated Goodwill, net at January 1, 2013 Acquisitions of businesses Currency translation Balance at December 31, 2013 Acquisitions of businesses Currency translation Balance at $ 110.8 $ 314.0 $ impairment losses (12.2) (16.1) — — — $ 182.4 $ 1.6 $ 608.8 (175.0) 7.4 3.6 — 11.0 0.2 — — 1.6 — — 1.6 — — (203.3) 405.5 154.1 (0.6) 559.0 32.1 (0.5) 98.6 297.9 1.8 (0.5) 12.4 (0.1) 136.3 — 99.9 310.2 136.3 — (0.5) 23.5 — 8.4 — December 31, 2014 $ 99.4 $ 333.7 $ 144.7 $ 11.2 $ 1.6 $ 590.6 At December 31, 2014, PolyOne had $99.7 million of indefinite-lived other intangible assets that are not subject to amortization, consisting of a trade name of $33.2 million acquired as part of the 2008 acquisition of GLS Corporation (GLS), trade names of $63.1 million acquired as part of the acquisition of ColorMatrix and $3.4 million of in-process research and development (IPR&D) acquired as part of the ColorMatrix acquisition. Acquired IPR&D is accounted for as an indefinite-lived intangible asset until the project is complete. Upon completion, projects are reclassified to technology and amortized over their useful lives. IPR&D consists of one project that we expect to complete during 2015. POLYONE CORPORATION 55 Indefinite and finite-lived intangible assets consisted of the following: (In millions) Customer relationships Patents, technology and other Indefinite-lived trade names In-process research and development Total (In millions) Acquisition Cost Accumulated Amortization As of December 31, 2014 Currency Translation Impairment $ $ 199.4 $ 133.4 96.3 3.4 (32.6) (35.3) — — $ — $ (0.1) — — $ (1.3) (0.5) — — 432.5 $ (67.9) $ (0.1) $ (1.8) $ Net 165.5 97.5 96.3 3.4 362.7 As of December 31, 2013 Acquisition Cost Accumulated Amortization Currency Translation Net Customer relationships Patents, technology and other Indefinite-lived trade names In-process research and development Total $ $ 181.5 $ 134.3 96.3 3.4 415.5 $ (24.1) $ (25.8) — — (49.9) $ 0.1 $ 0.1 — — 0.2 $ 157.5 108.6 96.3 3.4 365.8 Amortization of other finite-lived intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $19.2 million, $17.8 million and $13.2 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, we expect amortization expense on finite-lived intangibles for the next five years as follows: Expected amortization 2015 $20.0 2016 $20.1 2017 $20.1 2018 $20.1 2019 $20.0 Note 4 — EMPLOYEE SEPARATION AND RESTRUCTURING COSTS In 2013, PolyOne determined it would close seven former Spartech manufacturing facilities and one administrative office and relocate production to other PolyOne facilities. The manufacturing facilities’ closings are part of the Company’s ongoing integration of Spartech, which are designed to enable the Company to better serve customers, the anticipated synergy-related cost savings in connection with the Spartech acquisition. In addition to these actions, PolyOne incurred severance costs related to former Spartech executives and other employees, as well as fixed asset-related charges and other ongoing costs associated with restructuring actions that were underway prior to PolyOne’s acquisition of Spartech. We also incurred costs associated with further asset rationalization at Spartech locations that were not part of the above actions. improve efficiency, and deliver a portion of The Company has incurred $103.8 million of charges in connection with the Spartech actions noted above. These costs include $26.2 million of severance, $40.9 million of asset-related charges, including accelerated depreciation, and $36.7 million of other ongoing costs. We expect to incur an additional $15.0 million of costs related to these actions, primarily in the first half of 2015. 56 POLYONE CORPORATION The table below summarizes restructuring activity related to Spartech since the date of acquisition. (In millions) Accrual balance at December 31, 2012 Charged to expense Cash payments Non-cash utilization Accrual balance at December 31, 2013 Charged to expense Cash payments Non-cash utilization Accrual balance at December 31, 2014 Long-Lived Asset Charges Employee Separation Other Ongoing Costs Total $ — 13.6 — (13.6) $ — 27.3 — (27.3) $ — $ — 21.1 (6.0) — $ 15.1 5.1 (17.5) — $ — $ — 44.1 (15.4) (13.6) 9.4 (9.4) — $ — $ 15.1 59.7 (44.8) (27.3) 27.3 (27.3) — $ 2.7 $ — $ 2.7 In June 2014, PolyOne determined it would close its Diadema and Joinville, Brazil facilities that were acquired in 2011 with the acquisition of Uniplen Industria de Polimeros Ltda. These actions are expected to accelerate our specialty strategy in Brazil, streamline operations and improve our financial performance in the region. The table below summarizes restructuring activity related to Brazil since the date of closure. We do not expect the remaining charges related to these actions to have a material impact to our financial statements going forward. (In millions) Accrual balance at December 31, 2013 Charged to expense Cash payments Non-cash utilization Accrual balance at December 31, 2014 Asset Charges Employee Separation Other Ongoing Costs Total $ — 10.7 — (10.7) $ — $ — 2.9 (1.8) — $ 1.1 $ — $ — 17.0 (5.2) (10.7) 3.4 (3.4) — $ — $ 1.1 In addition to the Spartech and Brazil actions noted above, during 2014, we recognized $17.4 million of employee separation and restructuring costs primarily in Europe related to the closure of our Bendorf, Germany manufacturing plant along with other reductions in force across Europe. These costs principally related to severance, which are recognized within selling and administrative expense. We do not expect the remaining charges related to these actions to have a material impact to our financial statements going forward. In 2014, we recognized total employee separation and restructuring charges of $94.1 million, which included $54.0 million recognized within Cost of goods sold and $40.1 million recognized in Selling and administrative expenses. In 2013, we recognized total employee separation and restructuring charges of $52.0 million, which included $16.1 million recognized within Cost of goods sold and $35.9 million recognized in Selling and administrative expenses. Note 5 — DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS On May 30, 2013, PolyOne sold its Resin Business to Mexichem Specialty Resins Inc. for $250.0 million cash consideration. This sale resulted in the recognition of a pre-tax gain of $223.7 million ($139.7 million, net of tax). PolyOne has classified the Resin Business operating results as a discontinued operation in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income for all periods presented. POLYONE CORPORATION 57 The Resin Business’ sales, income before income taxes and net income were as follows: (In millions) Sales Gain on sale Income from operations Income before taxes Income tax benefit (expense) Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes * Includes the Resin Business’ operating results through May 29, 2013. Note 6 — FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS Total debt as of December 31 consisted of the following: (In millions) 7.500% debentures due 2015 Revolving credit facility due 2018 7.375% senior notes due 2020 5.250% senior notes due 2023 Other debt Total debt Less short-term and current portion of long-term debt Total long-term debt, net of current portion Year Ended December 31, 2014 2013* 2012 $ — $ 55.3 $ — $223.7 12.2 — $131.8 $ — 29.7 — 1.2 235.9 (86.1) 29.7 (11.1) $1.2 $149.8 $ 18.6 December 31, 2014 December 31, 2013 $ $ $ 48.7 45.0 316.6 600.0 13.5 1,023.8 61.8 962.0 $ $ $ 48.7 — 316.6 600.0 23.6 988.9 12.7 976.2 During the first quarter of 2014, we repaid an $8.0 million industrial revenue bond that was assumed as a result of the Spartech acquisition. In 2013, we repurchased $43.4 million aggregate principal amount of our 7.375% senior notes due 2020, $1.3 million aggregate principal amount of our 7.50% debentures due 2015 and $1.6 million of other debt. Additionally, we recognized $5.2 million of debt extinguishment costs within Debt extinguishment costs in our Consolidated Statements of Income in connection with these repurchases. On February 28, 2013, PolyOne issued $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior notes, which mature on March 15, 2023. The senior notes bear an interest rate of 5.25% per year, payable semi-annually, in arrears, on March 15 and September 15 of each year, which commenced on September 15, 2013. We used a portion of the net proceeds of the offering to pay the cash portion of the Spartech acquisition, and to repay certain Spartech debt, including the $88.9 million aggregate principal amount of its senior notes due 2016 and related interest and make-whole payments totaling $13.4 million and all outstanding amounts under its revolving credit facility. We also used a portion of these net proceeds to make a voluntary $50.0 million contribution to our U.S. qualified defined benefit plan and to repay the outstanding principal amount of $297.0 million under our senior secured term loan. We incurred debt extinguishment costs of $10.6 million related to the early retirement of our senior secured term loan, including $8.2 million of deferred financing cost write-offs and $2.4 million of discounts that were written off. These costs are presented within Debt extinguishment costs in our Consolidated Statements of Income. On March 1, 2013, the agreement, dated December 21, 2011, governing our $300.0 million five-year senior secured revolving credit facility was amended and restated. The amendment and restatement resulted in an increase in commitments of $100.0 million for a maximum borrowing facility size of $400.0 million, subject to a borrowing base with advances against certain U.S. and Canadian accounts 58 POLYONE CORPORATION receivable and inventory. We have the option to increase the availability under the facility to $450.0 million, subject to meeting certain requirements and obtaining commitments for such increase. In connection with the amendment and restatement, we also extended the maturity date to March 1, 2018. As of December 31, 2014, we were in compliance with all covenants and there were $45.0 million of outstanding borrowings under our asset-backed revolving credit facility, which had remaining availability of $233.7 million. The Company maintains a credit line with Saudi Hollandi Bank for $16.0 million, with an interest rate equal to the Saudi Arabia Interbank Offered Rate plus a fixed rate of 0.85%. The credit line is being used to fund capital expenditures related to the manufacturing facility in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and is subject to an annual renewal. As of December 31, 2014, letters of credit under the credit line were $0.2 million and borrowings were $13.1 million with an interest rate of 1.85%. As of December 31, 2013, letters of credit under the credit line were $0.3 million and borrowings were $12.3 million with an interest rate of 1.85%. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, there was remaining availability on the credit line of $2.7 million and $3.4 million, respectively. During 2013, we incurred $13.0 million in debt financing related fees. These costs are included in Other current and Other non-current assets and are being amortized over the life of their respective agreements. Aggregate maturities of debt for the next five years and thereafter are as follows: (In millions) 2015 2016 & 2017 2018 2019 Thereafter Aggregate maturities $ 61.8 — 45.1 0.1 916.8 $ 1,023.8 Included in Interest expense, net for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was interest income of $1.1 million, $1.3 million and $0.8 million, respectively. Total interest paid on debt was $59.8 million in 2014, $50.4 million in 2013 and $45.8 million in 2012. Note 7 — LEASING ARRANGEMENTS We lease certain manufacturing facilities, warehouse space, machinery and equipment, automobiles, railcars, computers and software under operating leases. Rent expense from continuing operations was $30.4 million in 2014, $24.5 million in 2013 and $20.2 million in 2012. Future minimum lease payments under non-cancelable operating leases with initial lease terms longer than one year as of December 31, 2014 are as follows (in millions): (In millions) 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 Thereafter Total $ $ 25.6 19.5 12.7 9.0 7.2 14.5 88.5 POLYONE CORPORATION 59 Note 8 — ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE, NET Accounts receivable, net as of December 31 consist of the following: (In millions) Trade accounts receivable Allowance for doubtful accounts Accounts receivable, net 2014 2013 $ $ 399.9 (3.1) 396.8 $ $ 433.2 (5.2) 428.0 The following table details the changes in allowance for doubtful accounts: (In millions) Balance at beginning of the year Provision for doubtful accounts Accounts written off Currency translation and other adjustments Balance at end of year Note 9 — INVENTORIES, NET Components of Inventories, net are as follows: (In millions) Finished products Work in process Raw materials and supplies Inventories, net Note 10 — PROPERTY, NET Components of Property, net are as follows: (In millions) Land and land improvements Buildings Machinery and equipment Less accumulated depreciation and amortization Property, net 2014 2013 2012 $ $ $ (5.2) (0.4) 2.2 0.3 $ (4.3) (0.2) 0.2 (0.9) (3.1) $ (5.2) $ (4.8) (0.3) 0.4 0.4 (4.3) December 31, 2014 December 31, 2013 $ 187.8 $ 4.1 117.1 $ 309.0 $ 203.6 3.9 135.0 342.5 December 31, 2014 December 31, 2013 $ $ $ 49.2 309.2 1,077.2 1,435.6 (838.9) 596.7 $ 52.5 315.4 1,079.2 1,447.1 (800.9) 646.2 Depreciation expense from continuing operations was $104.7 million in 2014, $91.0 million in 2013 and $52.6 million in 2012. Included in depreciation expense from continuing operations was accelerated depreciation of $23.1 million and $12.7 million during 2014 and 2013, respectively, related to announced restructuring actions. 60 POLYONE CORPORATION Note 11 — OTHER BALANCE SHEET LIABILITIES Other liabilities at December 31, 2014 and 2013 consist of the following: (In millions) Accrued expenses and other liabilities Other non-current liabilities December 31, 2014 2013 December 31, 2014 2013 $ Employment costs Environmental liabilities Accrued taxes Pension and other post-employment benefits Accrued interest Dividends payable Unrecognized tax benefits Other $ 112.2 11.5 10.3 5.7 16.1 8.8 2.1 6.8 $ 128.7 12.0 34.7 5.7 16.2 7.6 0.1 4.3 $ 23.4 109.6 — — — — 26.0 19.3 Total $ 173.5 $ 209.3 $ 178.3 $ 19.1 113.9 — — — — 18.1 18.3 169.4 Note 12 — EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS We recognize actuarial gains and losses in our operating results in the year in which the gains or losses occur. These gains and losses are generally only measured annually as of December 31 and, accordingly, are recorded during the fourth quarter of each year. In the fourth quarter of 2014, we recognized a pre-tax charge of $56.5 million related to the actuarial losses during the year. We recognized a pre-tax benefit of $44.0 million and charge of $42.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively. All U.S. qualified defined benefit pension plans are frozen, no longer accrue benefits and are closed to new participants. We have foreign pension plans that accrue benefits. The plans generally provide benefit payments using a formula that is based upon employee compensation and length of service. We sponsor several unfunded defined benefit post-retirement plans that provide subsidized health care and life insurance benefits to a certain closed group of retirees. In 2009, we adopted changes to our U.S. post-retirement healthcare plan whereby, effective January 1, 2010, the plan, for certain eligible retirees, was discontinued, and benefits were phased out through December 31, 2012. When this plan change was recognized in 2009, prior service cost amortization was calculated to fully amortize the prior service cost by the end of 2012, consistent with the period of continued benefits. POLYONE CORPORATION 61 The following tables present the change in benefit obligation, change in plan assets and components of funded status for defined benefit pension and post-retirement health care benefit plans. Actuarial assumptions that were used are also included. (In millions) Change in benefit obligation: Projected benefit obligation — beginning of year Service cost Interest cost Actuarial loss (gain) Benefits paid Other Projected benefit obligation — end of year Projected salary increases Accumulated benefit obligation Change in plan assets: Plan assets — beginning of year Actual return on plan assets Company contributions Plan participants’ contributions Benefits paid Other Plan assets — end of year Unfunded status at end of year Pension Benefits 2014 2013 Health Care Benefits 2013 2014 $ $ $ $ $ $ 537.0 1.6 24.9 70.9 (54.8) (2.8) 576.8 (3.5) 573.3 472.2 47.8 20.1 — (54.8) (1.3) 484.0 (92.8) $ $ $ $ $ $ 597.2 1.7 23.9 (35.5) (51.5) 1.2 537.0 (2.8) 534.2 410.4 44.9 68.0 — (51.5) 0.4 472.2 (64.8) $ $ $ $ $ $ 16.4 — 0.7 1.3 (1.7) (0.1) 16.6 — 16.6 — — 1.5 0.2 (1.7) — — $ $ $ $ 18.9 — 0.6 (1.0) (2.0) (0.1) 16.4 — 16.4 — — 1.8 0.2 (2.0) — $ — (16.6) $ (16.4) Amounts included in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows: (In millions) Pension Benefits 2014 2013 Health Care Benefits 2013 2014 Non-current assets Accrued expenses and other liabilities Other non-current liabilities $ $ — 4.1 88.7 $ 1.8 4.0 62.6 — 1.6 15.0 $ — 1.7 14.7 As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, we had plans with total projected and accumulated benefit obligations in excess of the related plan assets as follows: (In millions) Projected benefit obligation Accumulated benefit obligation Fair value of plan assets Pension Benefits 2014 2013 Health Care Benefits 2013 2014 $ $ 566.3 562.8 473.5 $ 528.5 525.6 461.9 $ 16.6 16.6 — 16.4 16.4 — Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31: Discount rate Assumed health care cost trend rates at December 31: Health care cost trend rate assumed for next year Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate) Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate 62 POLYONE CORPORATION Pension Benefits 2013 2014 Health Care Benefits 2013 2014 3.88% 4.83% 3.75% 4.38% N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 6.88% 7.02% 4.50% 2027 4.50% 2027 Assumed health care cost trend rates have an effect on the amounts reported for the health care plans. A one percentage point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following impact: (In millions) Effect on total of service and interest cost Effect on post-retirement benefit obligation One Percentage Point Increase One Percentage Point Decrease $ — $ 1.1 — (1.0) The following table summarizes the components of net period benefit cost or gain that was recognized during each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014. Actuarial assumptions that were used are also included. 2014 Pension Benefits 2013 2012 2014 Health Care Benefits 2013 2012 (In millions) Components of net periodic benefit costs (gains): Service cost Interest cost Expected return on plan assets Amortization of prior service cost Mark-to-market actuarial net losses (gains) Net periodic benefit cost (gain) $ $ $ 1.6 24.9 $ 1.7 23.9 $ 1.5 27.2 — $ 0.7 — $ 0.6 (32.2) (37.4) (27.6) — 55.2 49.5 — (43.0) $ (54.8) $ — 44.0 45.1 $ — — 1.3 2.0 — — (1.0) (0.4) $ — 0.8 — (17.4) (2.0) $ (18.6) In 2014, we recognized a $56.5 million mark-to-market charge that was primarily a result of the decrease in year end discount rates, as shown in the tables above, and updated mortality assumptions. During 2014, we adopted the RP-2014 mortality table which was issued by the Society of Actuaries in October 2014. Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost December 31: for the years ended Discount rate* Expected long-term return on plan assets* Assumed health care cost trend rates at December 31: Health care cost trend rate assumed for next year Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate) Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate 2014 4.83% Pension Benefits 2013 4.12% 2012 5.11% Health Care Benefits 2013 2012 2014 4.38% 3.71% 4.66% 6.86% 8.41% 8.43% —% —% —% N/A N/A N/A 7.02% 7.39% 8.35% N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 4.50% 4.63% 5.00% 2027 2025 2019 * The mark-to-market component of net periodic costs is determined based on discount rates as of year end and actual asset returns during the year. The expected long-term rate of return on pension assets was determined after considering the historical and forward looking long-term asset returns by asset category and the expected investment portfolio mix. Our pension investment strategy is to diversify the portfolio among asset categories to enhance the portfolio’s risk-adjusted return as well as insulate it from exposure to changes in interest rates. Our POLYONE CORPORATION 63 asset mix considers the duration of plan liabilities, historical and expected returns of the investments, and the funded status of the plan. The pension asset allocation is reviewed and actively managed based on the funded status of the plan. As the funded status of the plan increases, the asset allocation is adjusted to increase the mix of those investments with the duration of the plan liabilities. Based on the current funded status of the plan, our pension asset investment allocation guidelines are to invest 60% to 70% in fixed income securities, 30% to 40% in equity securities and 0% to 10% in alternative investments and cash. These alternative investments may include funds of multiple asset investment strategies and funds of hedge funds. fixed income investments and match the duration of The fair values of pension plan assets at December 31, 2014 and 2013, by asset category, are as follows: Fair Value of Plan Assets at December 31, 2014 Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) Total — $ — — $ — $ 6.7 $ 19.2 44.3 35.7 — — — 74.6 124.7 — — — 18.8 62.6 77.0 — 5.2 — $ 305.2 $ 163.6 $ — — — — — — — 15.2 15.2 $ 6.7 19.2 44.3 35.7 18.8 62.6 77.0 74.6 129.9 15.2 484.0 Fair Value of Plan Assets at December 31, 2013 Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Total $ 6.6 $ — $ — $ 28.4 22.0 14.4 107.7 45.2 35.3 — — 42.8 125.0 $ 427.4 $ — — — — — — 14.8 30.0 — — 44.8 — — — — — — — — — — $ — $ 6.6 28.4 22.0 14.4 107.7 45.2 35.3 14.8 30.0 42.8 125.0 472.2 (In millions) Asset category Cash Small-cap equity Registered investment companies: Non-U.S. equity Floating rate income Common collective funds: Short-term investments United States equity Fixed income United States treasuries Fixed income securities Other Totals (In millions) Asset category Cash Equity securities: Large-cap equity Small-cap equity International equity Registered investment companies: Fixed income Non-U.S. equity Floating rate income Common collective funds: Short-term investments United States equity United States treasuries Fixed income securities Totals 64 POLYONE CORPORATION Large-cap equities represent U.S. publicly-traded equity securities of companies with a market capitalization typically in excess of $10 billion with a focus on growth or value. Small-cap equities represent U.S. publicly-traded equity securities of companies with a market capitalization typically less than $2 billion with a focus on growth or value. International equities primarily represent publicly-traded equity securities of developed international countries and emerging markets with a focus on growth or value. The registered investment company fixed income funds invest primarily in investment grade fixed income securities. The registered investment company non-US equity funds invest in underlying securities that are actively traded in public, non-US markets. The registered investment company floating rate income fund strategy is to invest primarily in a diversified portfolio of first and second lien high-yield senior floating rate loans and other floating rate debt securities. Common collective funds are valued at the net value of units held by the fund at year end. The unit value is determined by the total value of the fund owned. Short-term investments in common collective funds represent cash and other short-term investments. The equity investments in common collective funds are predominately in equity or investment grade fixed income securities actively traded in public markets based upon readily measurable prices. The United States treasuries and fixed income securities consist of publicly traded United States and non-United States fixed interest obligations (principally corporate and government bonds and debentures). Other assets are primarily insurance contracts for international plans. fund assets divided by the total number of units of Level 1 assets are valued based on quoted market prices. Level 2 investments included within the respective common collective trust funds are valued using a net asset value per share that is based on the same or comparable instruments and quoted market prices and/or other market data for transactions of the underlying equity or fixed income investments. The insurance contracts included in the other asset category are valued at the transacted price. The estimated future benefit payments for our pension and health care plans are as follows: (In millions) 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 through 2024 Pension Benefits Health Care Benefits $ 50.0 $ 39.5 39.0 39.1 38.6 186.3 1.6 1.6 1.5 1.5 1.4 6.0 We currently estimate that 2015 employer contributions will be $24.5 million to all qualified and non- qualified pension plans and $1.6 million to all healthcare benefit plans. PolyOne sponsors various voluntary retirement savings plans (RSP). Under the provisions of the plans, eligible employees receive defined Company contributions and are eligible for Company matching contributions based on their eligible earnings contributed to the plan. In addition, we may make discretionary contributions to the plans for eligible employees based on a specific percentage of each employee’s compensation. Following are our contributions to the RSP: (In millions) Retirement savings match Retirement benefit contribution Total contributions 2014 2013 2012 $ $ 9.7 $ 4.0 9.8 $ 4.0 7.6 3.8 13.7 $ 13.8 $ 11.4 POLYONE CORPORATION 65 Note 13 — COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES Environmental — We or our subsidiaries have been notified by federal and state environmental agencies and by private parties that we may be a potentially responsible party (PRP) in connection with the investigation and remediation of certain environmental sites. While government agencies frequently assert that PRPs are jointly and severally liable at these sites, in our experience, the interim and final allocations of liability costs are generally made based on the relative contribution of waste. We initiate corrective and preventive environmental projects of our own to ensure safe and lawful activities at our operations. We believe that compliance with current governmental regulations at all levels will not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition. In September 2007, we were informed of rulings by the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky on several pending motions in the case of Westlake Vinyls, Inc. v. Goodrich Corporation, et al., which had been pending since 2003. The Court held that PolyOne must pay the remediation costs at the former Goodrich Corporation (now Westlake Vinyls, Inc.) Calvert City facility, together with certain defense costs of Goodrich Corporation. The rulings also provided that PolyOne can seek indemnification for contamination attributable to Westlake Vinyls. The environmental obligation at the site arose as a result of an agreement between The B.F.Goodrich Company (n/k/a Goodrich Corporation) and our predecessor, The Geon Company, at the time of the initial public offering in 1993, by which the Geon Company became a public company, to indemnify Goodrich Corporation for environmental costs at the site. At the time, neither PolyOne nor The Geon Company ever owned or operated the facility. Following the Court rulings, the parties to the litigation entered into settlement negotiations and agreed to settle all claims regarding past environmental costs incurred at the site. The settlement agreement provides a mechanism to pursue allocations of future remediation costs at the Calvert City site to Westlake Vinyls, Inc. While we do not currently assume any allocation of costs in our current reserve, we will adjust our reserve, in the future, consistent with any such future allocation of costs. investigation and feasibility study (RIFS) is underway at Calvert City. During the third A remedial investigation report to the United States Environmental quarter of 2013, we submitted a remedial Protection Agency (USEPA). The USEPA has required certain changes to the remedial investigation report, and development of a final report by the USEPA is ongoing. Further, we have undertaken steps to develop a feasibility study, including engaging a third party to perform ground water modeling at this site. Utilizing the preliminary results of this study, we were able to develop estimates for potential remedies at Calvert City. Based upon this information, in the fourth quarter of 2013, we adjusted our reserve by $47.0 million to reflect our best estimate of the remedial investigation report and feasibility study to be finalized at the end of 2015, and we continue to pursue available insurance coverage. No receivable has been recognized for future recoveries. future costs. We expect On March 13, 2013, PolyOne acquired Spartech. One of Spartech’s subsidiaries, Franklin-Burlington Plastics, Inc. (Franklin-Burlington), operated a plastic resin compounding facility in Kearny, New Jersey, located adjacent to the Passaic River. The USEPA has requested that companies located in the area of the lower Passaic River, including Franklin-Burlington, cooperate in an investigation of contamination of the lower Passaic River. In response, Franklin-Burlington and approximately 70 other companies (collectively, the Cooperating Parties) agreed, pursuant to an Administrative Order of Consent with the USEPA, to assume responsibility for development of a RIFS of the lower Passaic River. The RIFS costs are exclusive of any costs that may ultimately be required to remediate the lower Passaic River area being studied or costs associated with natural resource damages that may be assessed. By agreeing to bear a portion of the cost of the RIFS, Franklin-Burlington did not admit to any liability or agree to bear any such remediation or natural resource damage costs. In April 2014, the USEPA released a Focused Feasibility Study for public comment for a portion of the lower Passaic River. The Cooperating Parties, along with other interested parties, have submitted comments, and the USEPA is currently reviewing the comments. 66 POLYONE CORPORATION Given the uncertainties related to the lower Passaic River, including the fact that the final remedial actions and scope, and the ultimate allocation to Franklin-Burlington, have not yet been determined, we are not able to assess or estimate our remedial liability, if any, related to this matter. Based on our estimates we had accruals totaling $121.1 million and $125.9 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, for probable future environmental expenditures relating to previously contaminated sites. These accruals are undiscounted and included in Accrued expenses and other liabilities and Other non-current liabilities on the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets. The accruals represent our best estimate of probable future costs that we can reasonably estimate, based upon information and technology that is currently available and our view of the most likely remedy. Depending upon the results of future testing, completion and results of remedial investigation and feasibility studies, the ultimate remediation alternatives undertaken, changes in regulations, new information, newly discovered conditions and other factors, it is reasonably possible that we could incur additional costs in excess of the amount accrued at December 31, 2014. However, such additional costs, if any, cannot be currently estimated. We believe that the probability is remote that losses in excess of amounts we have accrued would be materially adverse to our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. The following table details the changes in the environmental accrued liabilities: (In millions) Balance at beginning of the year Environmental expenses Net cash payments Currency translation and other Balance at end of year 2014 2013 2012 $ $ $ 125.9 10.3 (14.7) (0.4) $ 75.4 61.2 (14.3) 3.6 121.1 $ 125.9 $ 76.2 12.8 (13.7) 0.1 75.4 Included in Cost of sales in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income are insurance reimbursements received for previously incurred environmental costs of $3.7 million and $23.5 million in 2014 and 2013, respectively. Other Litigation — We are involved in various pending or lawsuits and administrative proceedings, all arising from the ordinary course of business concerning commercial, product liability, employment and environmental matters that seek remedies or damages. We believe the amounts we have accrued would be that materially adverse to our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. the probability is remote that losses in excess of threatened claims, Guarantees — On February 28, 2011, we sold our 50% equity interest in SunBelt Chlor Alkali Partnership (Sunbelt) to Olin for $132.3 million in cash and the assumption by Olin of the obligations under our guarantee of senior secured notes issued by SunBelt of $42.7 million at the time of sale, $18.3 million as of December 31, 2014. Unless the guarantee is formally assigned to Olin, we remain obligated under the guarantee, although Olin has agreed to indemnify us for amounts that we may be obligated to pay under the guarantee. The senior secured notes mature in December 2017. Note 14 — INCOME TAXES Income from continuing operations, before income taxes is summarized below based on the geographic location of the operation to which such earnings are attributable. Certain foreign operations are branches of PolyOne and are, therefore, subject to United States as well as foreign income tax regulations. As a result, pre-tax income by location and the components of income tax expense by taxing jurisdiction are not directly related. POLYONE CORPORATION 67 Income from continuing operations, before income taxes consists of the following: (In millions) Domestic Foreign Income from continuing operations, before income taxes 2014 2013 2012 $ $ 54.1 $ 34.3 88.4 $ 105.2 $ 45.8 151.0 $ 46.2 37.1 83.3 A summary of income tax expense from continuing operations is as follows: (In millions) Current: Federal State Foreign Total current Deferred: Federal State Foreign Total deferred Total income tax expense 2014 2013 2012 $ $ $ $ $ (33.5) $ (3.1) (19.8) (56.4) $ 36.7 $ 4.6 3.9 45.2 $ (11.2) $ (17.4) $ (2.8) (23.3) (43.5) $ (12.9) $ (1.8) 0.1 (14.6) $ (58.1) $ (1.7) (0.9) (14.7) (17.3) (15.8) 0.1 2.9 (12.8) (30.1) Refer to Note 5, Discontinued Operations, for income tax expense allocated to discontinued operations. Reconciliation of income taxes from continuing operations at the U.S. statutory rate of 35% to the consolidated effective tax rate is as follows: (In millions) 2014 2013 2012 Income tax expense at 35% of income from continuing operations, before income taxes State tax, net of federal benefit Differences in rates of foreign operations Changes in valuation allowances U.S. research and development credit Tax benefits on certain foreign investments Uncertain tax positions U.S. tax settlements Domestic manufacturing deduction Other, net $ (30.9) $ (52.8) $ 1.1 5.4 (6.9) 1.0 13.4 (0.9) 2.8 2.2 1.6 (3.9) (1.2) (3.1) 2.1 — 0.5 — 1.5 (1.2) Income tax expense $ (11.2) $ (58.1) $ (29.2) (1.3) 3.3 (0.9) — — 0.1 — — (2.1) (30.1) 68 POLYONE CORPORATION Components of our deferred tax liabilities and assets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 were as follows: (In millions) Deferred tax liabilities: Tax over book depreciation Intangibles Other, net Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred tax assets: Pension and other post-retirement benefits Employment costs Environmental Net operating loss carryforwards Other, net Total deferred tax assets Valuation allowances Net deferred tax liabilities 2014 2013 (76.9) $ (135.2) (9.1) (221.2) $ $ 39.1 47.2 46.5 42.0 30.6 205.4 (23.6) $ (39.4) $ (87.1) (132.4) (13.6) (233.1) 20.6 36.8 49.3 38.0 32.6 177.3 (29.3) (85.1) $ $ $ $ $ As of December 31, 2014, we have combined state net operating loss carryforwards of $223.4 million that expire at various dates from 2015 through 2033. Various foreign subsidiaries have net operating loss carryforwards totaling $108.5 million that expire at various dates from 2015 through 2033. We have provided valuation allowances of $21.5 million against certain foreign and state loss carryforwards. No provision has been made for income taxes on undistributed earnings of consolidated non-U.S. subsidiaries of $281.7 million at December 31, 2014, because our intention is to reinvest indefinitely undistributed earnings of our foreign subsidiaries. It is not practicable to estimate the additional income taxes and applicable foreign withholding taxes that would be payable on the remittance of such undistributed earnings. We made worldwide income tax payments of $70.0 million and received refunds of $4.2 million in 2014. We made worldwide income tax payments of $120.3 million and $30.8 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively, and received refunds of $2.9 million and $13.0 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively. The increase in income tax payments made in 2013 is primarily related to higher 2013 earnings and the gain recognized related to the divestiture of the Resin Business. The Company records provisions for uncertain tax positions in accordance with ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes. A reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: (In millions) Unrecognized Tax Benefits 2014 2013 2012 Balance as of January 1 Additions based on tax positions related to the current year Additions for tax positions of prior years Reductions for tax positions of prior years Balances related to acquired businesses Settlements and other $ $ 15.2 4.8 0.1 (2.3) 14.2 (3.4) $ 14.5 — — (0.9) 1.1 0.5 Balance as of December 31 $ 28.6 $ 15.2 $ 15.1 0.2 — (0.4) — (0.4) 14.5 We recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in the provision for income taxes. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, we had $8.6 million and $3.0 million accrued for interest and penalties, respectively. The increase during 2014 is primarily associated with purchase accounting adjustments. POLYONE CORPORATION 69 Although the timing and outcome of tax settlements are uncertain, it is reasonably possible that during the next 12 months a reduction in unrecognized tax benefits may occur up to $19.2 million based on the outcome of tax examinations and as a result of the expiration of various statues of limitations. If all unrecognized tax benefits were recognized, the net impact on the provision for income tax expense would be $25.0 million. The Company is currently being audited by multiple state and foreign taxing jurisdictions. We are no longer subject to U.S. federal income tax examinations for periods preceding 2010 and, with limited exceptions, for periods preceding 2007 for state and 2002 for foreign tax examinations. Note 15 — SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION Share-based compensation cost is based on the value of the portion of share-based payment awards that are ultimately expected to vest during the period. Share-based compensation cost recognized in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income includes compensation cost for share-based payment awards based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the provision of FASB ASC Topic 718, Compensation — Stock Compensation. Share-based compensation expense is based on awards expected to vest and therefore has been reduced for estimated forfeitures. We estimate forfeitures at the time of grant and revise that estimate, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. Equity and Performance Incentive Plans The PolyOne Corporation 2010 Equity and Performance Incentive Plan (2010 EPIP), as amended in 2012, reserved 5.0 million common shares for the award of a variety of share-based compensation alternatives, including non-qualified stock options, incentive stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units (RSUs), performance shares, performance units and stock appreciation rights (SARs). It is anticipated that all share-based grants and awards that are earned and exercised will be issued from PolyOne common shares that are held in treasury. Share-based compensation is included in Selling and administrative expense in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income. A summary of compensation expense by type of award follows: (In millions) Stock appreciation rights Performance shares Restricted stock units Total share-based compensation Stock Appreciation Rights 2014 2013 2012 $ $ 5.5 $ 0.7 8.0 14.2 $ 6.1 $ 0.3 10.1 16.5 $ 5.1 — 5.3 10.4 During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the total number of SARs granted were 0.3 million, 0.5 million and 0.8 million, respectively. Awards vest in one-third increments upon the later of the attainment of stock price targets and time-based vesting over a three-year service period. Awards granted in 2014 are subject to an appreciation cap of 200% of the base price. Outstanding SARs have contractual terms ranging from seven to ten years from the date of the grant. The SARs were valued using a Monte Carlo simulation method as the vesting is dependent on the achievement of certain stock price targets. The SARs have time and market-based vesting conditions but vest no earlier than their three year graded vesting schedule. The below expected term assumption for fiscal 2014 is an output from the Monte Carlo model, and are derived from employee exercise assumptions that are based on PolyOne historical exercise experience. The expected volatility was determined based on the average weekly volatility for our common shares for the contractual life of the 70 POLYONE CORPORATION awards. The expected dividend assumption was determined based upon PolyOne’s dividend yield at the time of grant. The risk-free rate of return was based on available yields on U.S. Treasury bills of the same duration as the contractual life of the awards. Forfeitures were estimated at 3% per year based on our historical experience. The following is a summary of the weighted average assumptions related to the grants issued during 2014, 2013 and 2012: Expected volatility (weighted-average) Expected dividends Expected term (in years) Risk-free rate Value of SARs granted A summary of SAR activity for 2014 is presented below: Stock Appreciation Rights In millions, except per share data) Shares 2014 2013 2012 48.0% 0.91% 6.4 2.94% 50.0% 1.04% 7.4 2.12% 53.0% 1.37% 8.0 2.05% $14.05 $10.83 $6.92 Weighted- Average Exercise Price Per Share Weighted- Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate Intrinsic Value Outstanding as of January 1, 2014 Granted Exercised Forfeited or expired Outstanding as of December 31, 2014 Vested and exercisable as of December 31, 2014 2.1 0.3 (0.7) (0.1) 1.6 0.8 $ $ $ 16.63 35.19 15.55 32.00 20.13 14.81 6.33 $ — — — 6.63 $ 5.02 $ 39.3 28.9 19.0 The total intrinsic value of SARs exercised during 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $15.0 million, $14.9 million and $25.5 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, there was $2.1 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to SARs, which is expected to be recognized over the weighted average remaining vesting period of 15 months. Restricted Stock Units Restricted stock units (RSUs) represent contingent rights to receive one common share at a future date provided certain vesting criteria are met. During 2014, 2013 and 2012, the total number of RSUs granted were 0.2 million, 0.5 million and 0.6 million, respectively. These RSUs, which vest on the third anniversary of the grant date, were granted to executives and other key employees. Compensation expense is measured on the grant date using the quoted market price of our common shares and is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. As of December 31, 2014, 1.0 million RSUs remain unvested with a weighted-average grant date fair value of $23.49. Unrecognized compensation cost for RSUs at December 31, 2014 was $6.1 million, which is expected to be recognized over the weighted average remaining vesting period of 12 months. Note 16 — SEGMENT INFORMATION A segment is a component of an enterprise whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the enterprise’s chief operating decision maker to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance, and for which discrete financial information is available. Operating income is the primary measure that is reported to our chief operating decision maker for purposes of allocating resources to the segments and assessing their performance. Operating income at the segment level does not include: corporate general and administrative expenses that are not POLYONE CORPORATION 71 allocated to segments; intersegment sales and profit eliminations; charges related to specific strategic initiatives such as the consolidation of operations; including employee separation costs resulting from personnel reduction programs, plant closure and phase-in costs; executive separation agreements; share-based compensation costs; asset impairments; environmental remediation costs and other liabilities for facilities no longer owned or closed in prior years; gains and losses on the divestiture of joint ventures and equity investments; actuarial gains and losses associated with our pension and other post-retirement benefit plans; and certain other items that are not included in the measure of segment profit or loss that is reported to and reviewed by our chief operating decision maker. These costs are included in Corporate and eliminations. restructuring activities, Segment assets are primarily customer receivables, inventories, net property, plant and equipment, intangibles and goodwill. Intersegment sales are generally accounted for at prices that approximate those for similar transactions with unaffiliated customers. Corporate and eliminations assets and liabilities, retained assets and liabilities of liabilities primarily include cash, debt, environmental discontinued operations, and other unallocated corporate assets and liabilities. The accounting policies of each segment are consistent with those described in Note 1, Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. The following is a description of each of our five reportable segments. Global Color, Additives and Inks the demands of Global Color, Additives and Inks is a leading provider of specialized custom color and additive concentrates in solid and liquid form for thermoplastics, dispersions for thermosets, as well as specialty inks, plastisols, and vinyl slush molding solutions. Color and additive solutions include an innovative array of colors, special effects and performance-enhancing and eco-friendly solutions. When combined with a non-base resin, our solutions help customers achieve differentiated specialized colors and effects targeted at today’s highly design-oriented consumer and industrial end markets. Our additive concentrates encompass a wide variety of performance and process enhancing they perform, such as UV characteristics and are commonly categorized by the function that stabilization, antimicrobial, anti-static, blowing or foaming, antioxidant, lubricant, and productivity enhancement. Our colorant and additives concentrates are used in a broad range of polymers, including those used in medical and pharmaceutical devices, food packaging, personal care and cosmetics, transportation, building products, wire and cable markets. We also provide custom- formulated liquid systems that meet a variety of customer needs and chemistries, including vinyl, natural rubber and latex, polyurethane and silicone. Our offering also includes proprietary inks and latexes for diversified markets such as recreational and athletic apparel, construction and filtration, outdoor furniture and healthcare. Our liquid polymer coatings and additives are largely based on vinyl and are used in a variety of markets, including building and construction, consumer, healthcare, industrial, packaging, textiles, appliances, transportation, and wire and cable. Global Color, Additives and Inks has manufacturing, sales and service facilities located throughout North America, South America, Europe, Asia and Africa. On December 1, 2014, the Company completed the acquisition of specialty assets of Accella, a leading North American manufacturer of liquid polymer formulations, for $47.2 million in cash, net of cash acquired. Accella results are included within the Global Color, Additives and Inks segment. Global Specialty Engineered Materials Global Specialty Engineered Materials is a leading provider of specialty polymer formulations, services and solutions for designers, assemblers and processors of thermoplastic materials across a wide variety of markets and end-use applications. Our product portfolio, which we believe to be one of the most diverse in our industry, includes specialty formulated high-performance polymer materials that are manufactured using thermoplastic resins and elastomers, which are then combined with advanced polymer additives, reinforcement, filler, colorant and/or biomaterial technologies. Our technical and 72 POLYONE CORPORATION market expertise enables us to expand the performance range and structural properties of traditional engineering-grade thermoplastic resins to meet evolving customer needs. Global Specialty Engineered Materials has manufacturing, sales and service facilities located throughout North America, Europe, Asia and South America. Our product development and application reach is further enhanced by the capabilities of our Innovation Centers in the United States, Germany and China, which produce and evaluate prototype and sample parts to help assess end-use performance and guide product development. Our manufacturing capabilities are targeted at meeting our customers’ demand for speed, flexibility and critical quality. Designed Structures and Solutions On March 13, 2013, the Company completed the acquisition of Spartech, a supplier of plastic sheet, color and engineered materials, and packaging solutions. As a result of the acquisition, a new reportable segment, “Designed Structures and Solutions”, was created. Designed Structures and Solutions is comprised of the former Spartech Custom Sheet and Rollstock and Packaging Technologies businesses. We believe PolyOne’s Designed Structures and Solutions segment is a market leader in providing specialized, full service and innovative solutions in engineered polymer structures, rigid barrier packaging and specialty cast acrylics. We utilize a variety of polymers, specialty additives and processing technologies to produce a complete portfolio of sheet, custom rollstock and specialty film, laminate and acrylic solutions. Our solutions can be engineered to provide structural or functional performance in an application or deliver design and visual aesthetics to meet our customers’ needs. Our offerings also include a wide range of sustainable, cost-effective stock and custom packaging solutions for various industry processes used in the food, medical, consumer and graphic arts markets. In addition to packaging, we also work closely with customers to provide solutions for transportation, building and construction, healthcare and consumer markets. Designed Structures and Solutions has manufacturing, sales and service facilities located throughout North America. Performance Products and Solutions Performance Products and Solutions is comprised of the Geon Performance Materials (Geon) and Producer Services business units. The Geon business delivers an array of products and services for vinyl molding and extrusion processors located in North America and Asia. The Geon brand name carries strong recognition globally. Geon’s products are sold to manufacturers of durable plastic parts and consumer-oriented products. We also offer a wide range of services including materials testing, component analysis, custom formulation development, colorant and additive services, part design assistance, structural analysis, process simulations, mold design and flow analysis and extruder screw design. Vinyl is used across a broad range of markets and applications, including, but not limited to: healthcare, wire and cable, building and construction, consumer and recreational products and transportation and packaging. The Producer Services business unit offers contract manufacturing and outsourced polymer manufacturing services to resin producers and polymer marketers, primarily in the United States and Mexico, as well as its own proprietary compounds for pressure pipe and drip irrigation applications. As a strategic and integrated supply chain partner, Producer Services offers resin producers a way to develop custom products for niche markets by using our process technology expertise and multiple manufacturing platforms. PolyOne Distribution The PolyOne Distribution business distributes more than 3,500 grades of engineering and commodity grade resins, including PolyOne-produced solutions, principally to the North American and Asian markets. These products are sold to over 6,000 custom injection molders and extruders who, in turn, convert them into plastic parts that are sold to end-users in a wide range of industries. Representing over 25 major suppliers, we offer our customers a broad product portfolio, just-in-time delivery from multiple stocking locations and local technical support. Recent expansion in Central America and Asia have bolstered PolyOne Distribution’s ability to serve the specialized needs of customers globally. POLYONE CORPORATION 73 Financial information by reportable segment is as follows: Year Ended December 31, 2014 (In millions) Sales to External Customers Intersegment Sales Total Sales Operating Income Depreciation and Amortization Capital Expenditures Total Assets Global Color, Additives and Inks Global Specialty Engineered Materials Designed Structures and Solutions Performance Products and Solutions PolyOne Distribution Corporate and eliminations 835.0 555.2 616.5 728.2 1,100.6 — 15.8 43.1 1.0 850.8 124.9 598.3 617.5 72.4 45.1 88.4 13.8 (162.1) 816.6 1,114.4 (162.1) 63.1 68.2 (218.6) 41.4 16.7 24.4 17.7 0.6 23.1 Total $ 3,835.5 $ — $3,835.5 $ 155.1 $ 123.9 $ 28.1 15.2 25.6 15.2 0.1 8.6 92.8 Depreciation and Amortization (1) Capital Expenditures (1a) Year Ended December 31, 2013 (In millions) Sales to External Customers Intersegment Sales Total Sales Operating Income Global Color, Additives and Inks Global Specialty Engineered Materials Designed Structures and Solutions Performance Products and Solutions PolyOne Distribution Corporate and eliminations 844.6 571.9 597.3 690.9 1,066.5 — 7.7 43.6 0.1 82.3 8.7 (142.4) 852.3 104.0 615.5 597.4 773.2 1,075.2 (142.4) 57.2 33.4 56.0 63.3 (82.4) 38.8 18.8 21.2 15.5 0.6 13.9 Total $ 3,771.2 $ — $3,771.2 $ 231.5 $ 108.8 $ (1) Excludes $1.0 million of depreciation expense associated with the Resin Business. (1a) Excludes $0.2 million of capital expenditures associated with the Resin Business. 29.3 14.3 13.4 12.4 0.3 6.5 76.2 937.7 370.5 490.2 265.5 214.2 433.1 $ 2,711.2 Total Assets 962.0 379.6 549.4 278.7 216.7 557.7 $ 2,944.1 Year Ended December 31, 2012 (In millions) Sales to External Customers Intersegment Sales Total Sales Operating Income Global Color, Additives and Inks Global Specialty Engineered Materials Performance Products and Solutions PolyOne Distribution Corporate and eliminations 776.1 504.9 554.9 1,024.9 — 2.1 778.2 75.3 38.7 543.6 47.0 75.4 5.4 (121.6) 630.3 1,030.3 (121.6) 38.8 66.0 (89.6) Depreciation and Amortization (2) Capital Expenditures (2a) Total Assets 32.9 14.3 13.7 0.7 4.2 28.2 12.9 4.6 0.6 8.5 901.7 396.6 205.4 212.9 411.4 Total $ 2,860.8 $ — $ 2,860.8 $ 137.5 $ 65.8 $ 54.8 $ 2,128.0 (2) Excludes $4.0 million of depreciation expense associated with the Resin Business. (2a) Excludes $2.6 million of capital expenditures associated with the Resin Business. 74 POLYONE CORPORATION Our sales are primarily to customers in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, South America and Asia, and the majority of our assets are located in these same geographic areas. Following is a summary of sales and long-lived assets based on the geographic areas where the sales originated and where the assets are located: (In millions) Sales: United States Europe Canada Asia Mexico South America Total Sales Long-lived assets: United States Europe Canada Asia Mexico South America $ $ $ 2014 2013 2012 2,590.4 $ 511.8 277.4 246.2 178.4 31.3 2,538.2 $ 519.7 267.8 239.0 158.1 48.4 1,724.1 488.1 248.1 221.2 141.8 37.5 3,835.5 $ 3,771.2 $ 2,860.8 421.1 $ 95.7 12.8 39.5 19.7 7.9 444.4 $ 103.0 13.2 51.8 20.5 13.3 646.2 $ 240.9 82.2 5.7 45.1 3.5 8.4 385.8 Total Long-lived assets $ 596.7 $ Note 17 — COMMON SHARE DATA Weighted-average shares used in computing net income per share are as follows: (In millions) Weighted-average shares — basic: Plus dilutive impact of share-based compensation Weighted-average shares — diluted: 2014 2013 2012 92.3 1.2 93.5 95.5 1.0 96.5 89.1 0.7 89.8 Outstanding share-based awards with exercise prices greater than the average price of the common shares are anti-dilutive and are not included in the computation of diluted net income per share. The number of anti-dilutive options and awards was 0.4 million, 0.3 million and 1.2 million at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. In August 2008, our Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase program authorizing us to repurchase up to 10.0 million of our common shares, in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions. On October 11, 2011, PolyOne’s Board of Directors increased the common share repurchase authorization amount by 5.3 million and on October 23, 2012 increased the authorization an additional 13.2 million. As of December 31, 2014, the total common shares available for repurchase is 8.7 million. PolyOne may make all or part of any repurchases pursuant to accelerated share repurchases or Rule 10b5-1 plans. We purchased 6.3 million, 5.0 million and 1.2 million shares in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, at an aggregate price of $233.2 million, $131.6 million and $15.9 million, respectively, under these authorizations. Note 18 — DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS When translating results from foreign operations into U.S. dollars, we are subject to foreign exchange related risks in our operating results. We are also exposed to foreign exchange risk arising from POLYONE CORPORATION 75 intercompany lending transactions denominated in various foreign currencies that are subject to foreign exchange rate movement over the term of the loans. To mitigate these risks we enter into foreign exchange option and forward contracts. The counterparties to these instruments are financial institutions with strong credit ratings. PolyOne maintains control over the size of positions entered into with any one counterparty and regularly monitors the credit ratings of these institutions. Derivative financial instruments are accounted for at fair value and recognized as assets or liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. These instruments are not designated as a hedge, and therefore, any gain or loss is immediately recognized in income. The fair values of derivative financial instruments recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are as follows: (In millions) Foreign currency forwards (In millions) Foreign currency forwards December 31, 2014 Notional Other current assets 5.1 $ — December 31, 2013 Notional Other current assets 12.8 $ — $ $ The effects of derivative instruments on our Consolidated Statements of Income are as follows: (In millions) Foreign currency options — (losses) Foreign currency forwards — gains / (losses) 2014 $ — 1.1 Note 19 — FAIR VALUE 2013 $(0.4) 2012 Location $(1.4) Selling and administrative expense (0.6) (0.4) Other expense, net Fair value is measured based on an exit price, representing the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to satisfy a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. Fair value is a market-based measurement that is determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability. As a basis for considering such assumptions, a fair value hierarchy is established, which categorizes the inputs used in measuring fair value as follows: (Level 1) observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets; (Level 2) inputs, other than the quoted prices in active markets, that are observable either directly or indirectly; and (Level 3) unobservable inputs in which there is little or no market data, which require the reporting entity to develop its own assumptions. Financial instruments accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows: (In millions) Total December 31, 2014 Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Other observable inputs (Level 2) Unobservable inputs (Level 3) Cash and cash equivalents $ 238.6 $ 238.6 $ — $ — (In millions) Total December 31, 2013 Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Other observable inputs (Level 2) Unobservable inputs (Level 3) Cash and cash equivalents $ 365.2 $ 365.2 $ — $ — The fair value of derivative instruments are classified as Level 2 and are determined using widely accepted valuation techniques including discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows of 76 POLYONE CORPORATION each derivative. This analysis reflects the contractual terms of the derivatives, including the period to maturity, and uses observable market-based inputs, including interest rate curves and spot and forward foreign currency rates as well as option volatility and non-performance risk. Other Fair Value Measurements The estimated fair value of PolyOne’s debt instruments at December 31, 2014 and 2013 was $1,045.4 million and $1,010.3 million, respectively, compared to carrying values of $1,023.8 million and $988.9 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The fair value of PolyOne’s debt instruments was estimated using prevailing market interest rates on debt with similar creditworthiness, terms and maturities and represent Level 2 measurements within the fair value hierarchy. In accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 350, Intangibles — Goodwill and Other, we assess the fair value of goodwill on an annual basis. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined based on significant unobservable inputs, as summarized below. Accordingly, these inputs fall within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. No impairment charges were included in 2014, 2013 or 2012. We use an income approach to estimate the fair value of our reporting units. The income approach uses a reporting unit’s projection of estimated operating results and cash flows that is discounted using a weighted-average cost of capital that is determined based on current market conditions. The projection uses management’s best estimates of economic and market conditions over the projected period including growth rates in sales, costs and number of units, estimates of future expected changes in operating margins and cash expenditures. Other significant estimates and assumptions include terminal value growth rates, terminal value margin rates, future capital expenditures and changes in future working capital requirements. We validate our estimates of fair value under the income approach by considering the implied control premium and conclude whether the implied control premium is reasonable based on other recent market transactions. Indefinite-lived intangible assets primarily consist of the GLS and ColorMatrix trade names. Indefinite- lived intangible assets are tested for impairment annually at the same time we test goodwill for impairment. The implied fair value of indefinite-lived intangible assets is determined based on significant unobservable inputs, as summarized below. Accordingly, these inputs fall within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. No impairment charges were included in 2014, 2013 or 2012. The fair value of the trade names is calculated using a “relief from royalty” methodology. This approach involves two steps (1) estimating reasonable royalty rates for the trade name and (2) applying this royalty rate to a net sales stream and discounting the resulting cash flows to determine fair value. This fair value is then compared with the carrying value of the trade name. Note 20 — SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED) (In millions, except per share data) Fourth (2) Third (3) Second (4) First (5) Fourth (6) Third (7) Second (8) First (9) 2014 Quarters 2013 Quarters Sales Gross Margin Operating (loss)/income Net (loss)/income from continuing operations Net (loss)/income from continuing operations attributable to PolyOne shareholders $ 869.3 $ 958.4 $ 1,005.5 $ 1,002.3 $ 923.6 $ 1,008.9 $ 1,037.6 $ 801.1 162.3 40.5 152.6 (14.3) 184.5 49.4 188.2 56.4 182.6 63.6 181.3 61.6 114.9 48.7 203.7 80.7 (15.0) 32.3 30.7 29.2 20.6 23.0 38.3 11.0 $ (14.6) $ 32.3 $ 30.9 $ 29.4 $ 21.0 $ 23.2 $ 38.6 $ 11.2 Net income from continuing operations per common share attributable to PolyOne common shareholders: (1) Basic net (loss)/income — continuing operations Diluted net (loss)/income — continuing operations $ (0.16) $ 0.35 $ $ (0.16) $ 0.35 $ 0.31 $ 0.22 $ 0.31 $ 0.22 $ 0.33 $ 0.33 $ 0.24 $ 0.24 $ 0.39 $ 0.12 0.39 $ 0.12 POLYONE CORPORATION 77 (3) (2) (4) (5) (6) (1) Per share amounts for the quarter and the full year have been computed separately. The sum of the quarterly amounts may not equal the annual amounts presented because of differences in the average shares outstanding during each period. Included for the fourth quarter 2014 are: 1) mark-to-market pension and other post-retirement charge of $56.5 million, 2) employee separation and restructuring costs of $23.2 million, 3) environmental remediation costs of $2.6 million and 5) a gain related to the reimbursement of previously incurred environmental costs of $2.1 million. Included for the third quarter 2014 are: 1) $17.9 million in employee separation and restructuring costs, 2) $5.9 million in environmental remediation costs and 3) a gain related to the reimbursement of previously incurred environmental costs of $1.6 million. Included for the second quarter 2014 are: 1) $35.1 million in employee separation and restructuring costs and 2) $5.4 million tax benefit associated with our investments in certain foreign affiliates. Included for the first quarter 2014 are: 1) $17.9 million in employee separation and restructuring costs. Included for the fourth quarter 2013 are: 1) gains from the SunBelt earn-out of $26.8 million, 2) mark-to-market pension and other post-retirement benefit gains of $44.0 million, 3) environmental remediation costs of $52.6 million, 4) a gain related to the reimbursement of previously incurred environmental costs of $3.4 million and 5) employee separation and restructuring costs of $28.3 million. Included for the third quarter 2013 are: 1) $5.3 million in environmental remediation costs, 2) $10.9 million in employee separation and restructuring costs, 3) $7.0 million gain on commercial litigation, 4) $5.2 million in debt extinguishment costs associated with our outstanding debt repurchases and 5) $1.2 million of acquisition and divestiture-related costs. Included for the second quarter 2013 are: 1) pre-tax gain of $223.7 million related to the sale of the Resin Business, 2) $2.9 million in employee separation and restructuring costs, 3) acquisition and divestiture-related costs of $4.9 million, 4) environmental remediation costs of $1.3 million and 5) a gain related to the reimbursement of previously incurred environmental costs of $14.9 million. Included for the first quarter 2013 are: 1) $9.9 million in employee separation and restructuring costs 2) acquisition and divestiture-related costs of $8.7 million, 3) environmental remediation costs of $2.0 million, 4) a gain related to the reimbursement of previously incurred environmental costs of $5.2 million and 5) $10.6 million in debt extinguishment costs related to the early retirement of our senior secured term loan. (7) (9) (8) 78 POLYONE CORPORATION ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE None. ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES Disclosure controls and procedures PolyOne’s management, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of PolyOne’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) as of December 31, 2014. Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2014. Management’s annual report on internal control over financial reporting The following report is provided by management in respect of PolyOne’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934): 1. PolyOne’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. 2. Under the supervision of and with participation of PolyOne’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014 based on the guidelines established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) (2013 Framework). Management believes that the COSO framework is a suitable framework for its evaluation of financial reporting because it is free from bias, permits reasonably consistent qualitative and quantitative measurements of PolyOne’s internal control over financial reporting, is sufficiently complete so that those relevant factors that would alter a conclusion about the effectiveness of PolyOne’s internal control over financial reporting are not omitted and is relevant to an evaluation of internal control over financial reporting. 3. Based on the results of our evaluation, management has concluded that such internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2014. There were no material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting identified by management. The results of management’s assessment were reviewed with our Audit Committee. 4. Ernst & Young LLP, who audited the consolidated financial statements of PolyOne for the year ended December 31, 2014, also issued an attestation report on PolyOne’s internal control over financial reporting under Auditing Standard No. 5 of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board. This attestation report is set forth on page 41 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and is incorporated by reference into this Item 9A. Changes in internal control over financial reporting There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2014 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Limitations in internal control over financial reporting Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. POLYONE CORPORATION 79 ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION None. PART III ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE The information regarding PolyOne’s directors, including the identification of the audit committee and is incorporated by reference to the information contained in audit committee financial experts, PolyOne’s Proxy Statement with respect to the 2015 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (2015 Proxy Statement). Information concerning executive officers is contained in Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K under the heading “Executive Officers of the Registrant.” The information regarding Section 16(a) beneficial ownership reporting compliance is incorporated by reference to the material under the heading “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in the 2015 Proxy Statement. The information regarding any changes in procedures by which shareholders may recommend nominees to PolyOne’s Board of Directors is incorporated by reference to the information contained in the 2015 Proxy Statement. PolyOne has adopted a code of ethics that applies to its principal executive officer, principal financial officer and principal accounting officer. PolyOne’s code of ethics is posted under the Investor Relations tab of its website at www.polyone.com. PolyOne will post any amendments to, or waivers of, its code of ethics that apply to its principal executive officer, principal financial officer and principal accounting officer on its website. ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION The information regarding executive officer and director compensation is incorporated by reference to the information contained in the 2015 Proxy Statement. The information regarding compensation committee interlocks and insider participation and the compensation committee report is incorporated by reference to the information contained in the 2015 Proxy Statement. ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED SHAREHOLDER MATTER The information about our equity compensation plans is incorporated by reference to information contained in the 2015 Proxy Statement. The information regarding security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management incorporated by reference to the information contained in the 2015 Proxy Statement. is ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE The information regarding certain relationships and related transactions and director independence is incorporated by reference to the information contained in the 2015 Proxy Statement. ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES Information regarding fees paid to and services provided by PolyOne’s independent registered public accounting firm and the pre-approval policies and procedures of the audit committee is incorporated by reference to the information contained in the 2015 Proxy Statement. 80 POLYONE CORPORATION PART IV ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES (a)(1) Financial Statements: The following consolidated financial statements of PolyOne Corporation are included in Item 8: Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2014 and 2013 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements All other schedules for which provision is made in Regulation S-X of the SEC are not required under the related instructions or are inapplicable and, therefore, have been omitted. (a)(3) Exhibits. Refer to the Exhibit Index, which is incorporated by reference herein. POLYONE CORPORATION 81 SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. February 13, 2015 POLYONE CORPORATION BY: /S/ BRADLEY C. RICHARDSON Bradley C. Richardson Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities indicated and on the dates indicated. Signature and Title /S/ ROBERT M. PATTERSON Robert M. Patterson /S/ BRADLEY C. RICHARDSON Bradley C. Richardson President and Chief Executive Officer and Director (Principal Executive Officer) Date: February 13, 2015 Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) Date: February 13, 2015 /S/ STEPHEN D. NEWLIN Executive Chairman and Director Stephen D. Newlin /S/ RICHARD H. FEARON Director Richard H. Fearon /S/ GREGORY J. GOFF Gregory J. Goff Director /S/ GORDON D. HARNETT Director Gordon D. Harnett /S/ SANDRA BEACH LIN Sandra Beach Lin Director /S/ RICHARD A. LORRAINE Director Richard A. Lorraine /S/ WILLIAM H. POWELL William H. Powell /S/ KERRY J. PREETE Kerry J. Preete Director Director /S/ FARAH M. WALTERS Director Farah M. Walters /S/ WILLIAM A. WULFSOHN William A. Wulfsohn Director 82 POLYONE CORPORATION Date: February 13, 2015 Date: February 13, 2015 Date: February 13, 2015 Date: February 13, 2015 Date: February 13, 2015 Date: February 13, 2015 Date: February 13, 2015 Date: February 13, 2015 Date: February 13, 2015 Date: February 13, 2015 Exhibit No. Exhibit Description EXHIBIT INDEX 2.1† 2.2† 2.3† 2.4† 3.1 3.2 3.3 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 10.1 10.2+ 10.3+ 10.4+ 10.5+ 10.6+ 10.7+ Purchase Agreement, dated as of February 28, 2011, by and among PolyOne Corporation, 1997 Chloralkali Venture, LLC, Olin Corporation and Olin SunBelt II, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 3, 2011, SEC File No. 1-16091) Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of September 30, 2011, among PolyOne Corporation, 2011 ColorNewton Inc., ColorMatrix Group, Inc., and Audax ColorMatrix Holdings, LLC (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to PolyOne Corporation’s current report on Form 8-K filed on October 5, 2011, SEC File No. 1-16091) Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated October 23, 2012, by and among PolyOne Corporation, 2012 RedHawk, Inc., 2012 RedHawk, LLC and Spartech Corporation (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to PolyOne Corporation’s current report on Form 8-K filed on October 24, 2012, SEC File No. 1-16091) Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of March 25, 2013, by and between PolyOne Corporation and Mexichem Specialty Resins Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 27, 2013, SEC File No. 1-16091) Articles of Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2000, SEC File No. 1-16091) Incorporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(i) to the Company’s Annual Report on Amendment to the Second Article of the Articles of Incorporation, as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State, November 25, 2003 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1a to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003, SEC File No. 1-16091) Regulations (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 17, 2009, SEC File No. 1-16091) Indenture, dated as of December 1, 1995, between the Company and NBD Bank, as trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to The Geon Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996, SEC File No. 1-11804) Indenture, dated as of September 24, 2010, between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2010, SEC File No. 1-16091) First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 24, 2010, between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Company’s Quarterly Report Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2010, SEC File No. 1-16091) Indenture, dated February 28, 2013, between PolyOne Corporation and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 5, 2013, SEC File No. 1-16091) Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated March 1, 2013, among the Company, PolyOne Canada and certain other subsidiaries of the Company, Wells Fargo Capital Finance, LLC, as administrative agent, Bank of America, N.A. and U.S. Bank National Association, as syndication agents, PNC Bank National Association and KeyBank National Association, as documentation agents, and Wells Fargo Capital Finance, LLC and Merrill, Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as joint lead arrangers and bookrunners (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 5, 2013, SEC File No. 1-16091) Form of 2011 Award Agreement under the 2010 Equity and Performance Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2011, SEC File No. 1-16091) PolyOne Corporation 2010 Equity and Performance Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8, Registration Statement No. 333-166775, filed on May 12, 2010) PolyOne Senior Executive Annual Incentive Plan (effective January 1, 2011) (incorporated by reference to Appendix B to the Company’s definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A, SEC File No. 1-16091, filed on March 29, 2010) Form of Grant of Stock-Settled Stock Appreciation Rights under the 2010 Long-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2010, SEC File No. 1-16091) Amended and Restated Benefit Restoration Plan (Section 401(a)(17)) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007, SEC File No. 1-16091) Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors (as amended and restated effective May 20, 2014)** POLYONE CORPORATION Exhibit No. Exhibit Description 10.8+ 10.9+ 10.10+ 10.11+ 10.12+ 10.13+ 10.14+ 10.15+ 10.16+ 10.17+ 10.18+ 10.19+ 10.20+ 10.21+ 10.22+ 10.23+ 10.24+ 10.25+ 10.26+ Form of Management Continuity Agreement for Executive Officers prior to 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007, SEC File No. 1-16091) Form of Management Continuity Agreement for Executive Officers after 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013, SEC File No. 1-16091) Schedule of Executive Officers with Management Continuity Agreements** PolyOne Supplemental Retirement Benefit Plan (As Amended and Restated Effective January 1, 2014) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013, SEC file No. 1-16091) Amended and Restated Letter Agreement, dated as of March 6, 2014, between the Company and Stephen D. Newlin, originally effective as of February 13, 2006 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2014, SEC File No. 1-16091) Assumption of Liabilities and Indemnification Agreement, dated March 1, 1993, amended and restated by Amended and Restated Assumption of Liabilities and Indemnification Agreement, dated April 27, 1993 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to The Geon Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996, SEC File No. 1-11804) Unconditional and Continuing Guaranty, between the Company and Olin Corporation and Sunbelt Chlor Alkali Partnership (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(c) to The Geon Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 1996, SEC File No. 1-11804) Asset Contribution Agreement — PVC Partnership (Geon) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to The Geon Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 13, 1999, SEC File No. 1-11804) Form of 2007 Award Agreement for Stock-Settled Stock Appreciation Rights (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2007, SEC File No. 1-16091) PolyOne Corporation 2008 Equity and Performance Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Appendix A to the Registrant’s proxy statement on Schedule 14A (SEC File No. 1-16091), filed on March 25, 2008) Form of 2008 Award Agreement for Stock-Settled Stock Appreciation Rights (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2008, SEC File No. 1-16091) First Amendment to The Geon Company Section 401(a)(17) Benefit Restoration Plan (December 31, 2007 Restatement) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2009, SEC File No. 1-16091) Form of 2009 Grant of Stock-Settled Stock Appreciation Rights under the 2009 Long-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2009, SEC File No. 1-16091) Executive Severance Plan, as amended and restated effective May 15, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014, SEC File No. 1-16091) First Amendment to the PolyOne Corporation 2010 Equity and Performance Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Company’s definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A, SEC File No. 1-16091, filed on March 23, 2012) Form of 2012 Award Agreement under the PolyOne Corporation 2010 Equity and Performance Incentive Plan, as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.38 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012, SEC File No. 1-16091) Form of 2013 Award Agreement under the PolyOne Corporation 2010 Equity and Performance Incentive Plan, as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.27 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013, SEC File No. 1-16091) Form of Director and Officer Indemnification Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 5, 2006, SEC File No. 1-16091) Form of 2014 Award Agreement under the PolyOne Corporation 2010 Equity and Performance Incentive Plan, as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014, SEC File No. 1-16091) 21.1 Subsidiaries of the Company** POLYONE CORPORATION Exhibit No. Exhibit Description 23.1 31.1 31.2 32.1 32.2 Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm — Ernst & Young LLP** Certification of Robert M. Patterson, President and Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to SEC Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002** Certification of Bradley C. Richardson, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to SEC Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002** Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as signed by Robert M. Patterson, President and Chief Executive Officer** Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as signed by Bradley C. Richardson, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer** 101 .INS XBRL Instance Document** 101 .SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document** 101 .CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document** 101 .LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document** 101 .PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document** 101 .DEF XBRL Taxonomy Definition Linkbase Document** + † Indicates management contract or compensatory plan, contract or arrangement in which one or more directors or executive officers of the Registrant may be participants The exhibits and schedules have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(2) of Regulation S-K and will be provided to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request. ** Filed herewith. POLYONE CORPORATION Exhibit 31.1 I, Robert M. Patterson, certify that: 1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of PolyOne Corporation; CERTIFICATION 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: (a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; (b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; (c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and (d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): (a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and (b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting. /s/ Robert M. Patterson Robert M. Patterson President and Chief Executive Officer February 13, 2015 POLYONE CORPORATION Exhibit 31.2 I, Bradley C. Richardson, certify that: 1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of PolyOne Corporation; CERTIFICATION 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: (a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; (b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; (c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and (d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): (a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and (b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting. /s/ Bradley C. Richardson Bradley C. Richardson Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer February 13, 2015 POLYONE CORPORATION CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 Exhibit 32.1 In connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K of PolyOne Corporation (the “Company”) for the year ended December 31, 2014, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Robert M. Patterson, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, do hereby certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that, to my knowledge: (1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and (2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company as of the dates and for the periods expressed in the Report. /s/ Robert M. Patterson Robert M. Patterson President and Chief Executive Officer February 13, 2015 The foregoing certification is being furnished solely pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350 and is not being filed as part of the Report or as a separate disclosure document. POLYONE CORPORATION CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 Exhibit 32.2 In connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K of PolyOne Corporation (the “Company”) for the year ended December 31, 2014, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Bradley C. Richardson, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, do hereby certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that, to my knowledge: (1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and (2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company as of the dates and for the periods expressed in the Report. /s/ Bradley C. Richardson Bradley C. Richardson Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer February 13, 2015 The foregoing certification is being furnished solely pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350 and is not being filed as part of the Report or as a separate disclosure document. POLYONE CORPORATION PolyOne Stock Performance THIS PAGE IS NOT PART OF POLYONE’S FORM 10-K FILING The following is a graph that compares the cumulative total shareholder returns for PolyOne’s common shares, the S&P 500 index and the S&P Mid Cap Chemicals index, with dividends assumed to be reinvested when received. The graph assumes the investing of $100 from December 31, 2009 through December 31, 2014. The S&P Mid Cap Chemicals index includes a broad range of chemical manufacturers. Because of the relationship of PolyOne’s business within the chemical industry, comparison with this broader index is appropriate. STOCK EXCHANGE LISTING FINANCIAL INFORMATION PolyOne's Common Stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange, Symbol: POL. Security analysts and representatives of financial institutions are invited to contact: SHAREHOLDER INQUIRIES If you have any questions concerning your account as a shareholder, name or address changes, inquiries regarding stock certificates, or if you need tax information regarding your account, please contact our transfer agent: Eric Swanson Director, Investor Relations Phone: 440-930-1013 Fax: 440-930-1446 Email: eric.swanson@polyone.com AUDITORS Ernst & Young LLP 950 Main Ave., Suite 1800 Cleveland, OH 44113 INTERNET ACCESS Information on PolyOne’s products and services, news releases, corporate governance, EDGAR filings, Reports on Forms 10-K and 10-Q, etc. as well as an electronic version of this annual report, are available on the Internet at www.polyone.com. Wells Fargo Shareowner Services 1110 Centre Pointe Curve, Suite 101 Mendota Heights, MN 55120-4100 Phone: 1-855-598-2615 www.shareowneronline.com Additional information about PolyOne, including current and historic copies of Annual Reports on Form 10-K and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, is available online at www.polyone.com or free of charge from: Investor Affairs Administrator PolyOne Corporation 33587 Walker Road Avon Lake, Ohio 44012 Phone: 440-930-1522 ANNUAL MEETING The annual meeting of shareholders of PolyOne will be held May 14, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. at PolyOne’s Corporate headquarters, 33587 Walker Road, Avon Lake, Ohio. The meeting notice and proxy materials were mailed to shareholders with this annual report. PolyOne urges all shareholders to vote their proxies so that they can participate in the decisions at the annual meeting. PolyOne Corporation Board of Directors (Left to Right): Sandra B. Lin, William H. Powell, Richard H. Fearon, William A. Wulfsohn, Stephen D. Newlin, Kerry J. Preete, Robert M. Patterson, Gordon D. Harnett, Farah M. Walters, Richard A. Lorraine and Gregory J. Goff CORPORATE OFFICERS BOARD OF DIRECTORS STEPHEN D. NEWLIN Executive Chairman ROBERT M. PATTERSON President and Chief Executive Ofﬁcer LISA K. KUNKLE Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary SCOTT J. LEFFLER Vice President, Treasurer BRADLEY C. RICHARDSON Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Ofﬁcer JULIE A. MCALINDON Senior Vice President, President of Designed Structures and Solutions M. JOHN MIDEA, JR. Senior Vice President, Global Operations and Process Improvement DR. CHRISTOPHER MURPHY Vice President, Research and Development, Chief Innovation Ofﬁcer CRAIG M. NIKRANT Senior Vice President, President of Global Specialty Engineered Materials ANA G. RODRIGUEZ Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Ofﬁcer KURT C. SCHUERING Vice President, Global Key Account Management JOHN V. VAN HULLE Senior Vice President, President of Global Color Additives and Inks ROBERT T. BINDNER Vice President, Asia MARK D. CRIST Senior Vice President, President of Distribution GIUSEPPE DI SALVO Vice President, Corporate Controller CATHY K. DODD Vice President, Marketing JAVIER A. ECHEVARRIA Vice President, Global Sourcing MICHAEL A. GARRATT Senior Vice President, President of Performance Products and Solutions AVERY L. JOHNSON Vice President, Tax MICHAEL E. KAHLER Senior Vice President, Chief Commercial Ofﬁcer HOLGER KRONIMUS Vice President, Europe, General Manager, Engineered Materials Europe WILLIAM H. POWELL Retired Chairman and Chief Executive Ofﬁcer, National Starch and Chemical Company Committee: 2* KERRY J. PREETE Executive Vice President, Global Strategy, Monsanto Company Committees: 2, 3 FARAH M. WALTERS President and Chief Executive Ofﬁcer, QualHealth, LLC Committees: 2, 4 WILLIAM A. WULFSOHN Chairman and Chief Executive Ofﬁcer, Ashland Inc. Committee: 2 COMMITTEES 1. Audit 2. Compensation 3. Environmental, Health and Safety 4. Nominating & Governance * Denotes Chairperson STEPHEN D. NEWLIN Executive Chairman, PolyOne Corporation Committee: 3 ROBERT M. PATTERSON President and Chief Executive Ofﬁcer, PolyOne Corporation Committee: 3 RICHARD H. FEARON Vice Chairman and Chief Financial and Planning Ofﬁcer, Eaton Committees: 1*, 4 GREGORY J. GOFF President and Chief Executive Ofﬁcer, Tesoro Corporation and Chairman and Chief Executive Ofﬁcer, Tesoro Logistics Committees: 3*, 4 GORDON D. HARNETT Lead Director, PolyOne Corporation; Retired Chairman and Chief Executive Ofﬁcer, Materion Corp. (formerly Brush Engineered Materials, Inc.) Committees: 1, 2, 4* SANDRA B. LIN Retired President, Chief Executive Ofﬁcer and Director, Calisolar Inc. (now Silico Materials) Committees: 1, 3 RICHARD A. LORRAINE Retired Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Ofﬁcer, Eastman Chemical Company Committees: 1, 4 Annual Report 2014

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