Quarterlytics / Consumer Cyclical / Beverages - Non-Alcoholic / Britvic

Britvic

bvic · LSE Consumer Cyclical
Claim this profile
Ticker bvic
Exchange LSE
Sector Consumer Cyclical
Industry Beverages - Non-Alcoholic
Employees 1001-5000
← All annual reports
FY2015 Annual Report · Britvic
Sign in to download
Loading PDF…
annual report 2015

a
n
n
u
a

l

r
e
p
o
r
t
2
0
1
5

Britvic plc 
Breakspear Park 
Breakspear Way 
Hemel Hempstead 
HP2 4TZ

Tel: +44 (0)121 711 1102

www.britvic.com

 
 
welcome 
to Britvic’s 
2015 annual 
report for the 
financial year 
ended 27 
September 
2015

In this report you can read an overview of our 
business and what we do, find information 
on our strategy and how we deliver it, how 
we have performed in the financial year and 
how we govern our business.

  01 Strategic report 

01   Performance highlights

  Sustainable business highlights

02   Chairman’s introduction
 04  Britvic at a glance
06   Our brands  
08   Our business model
 09  Our geographies
10   Our strategy 
12   Key performance indicators
14   Chief Executive Officer’s review
17   Chief Financial Officer’s review
22   Sustainable business review
28   Our risks

  02 Governance

32   Corporate governance report
34   Board of directors
43   Audit Committee
46   Nomination Committee
48   Remuneration Committee
48   Directors’ remuneration report 
53   Annual report on remuneration
70   Directors’ report
73   Statement of directors’ responsibilities

  03 Financial statements

76     Independent auditor’s report to the members of Britvic plc
79   Consolidated income statement
80     Consolidated statement of comprehensive income/(expense)
81   Consolidated balance sheet
82   Consolidated statement of cash flows 
83   Consolidated statement of changes in equity
84   Notes to the consolidated financial statements
128 Company balance sheet
129 Notes to the company financial statements

  04 Other information

136 Shareholder information
 138 Glossary

Cautionary note regarding forward-looking 
statements
This announcement includes statements that are forward-looking 
in nature. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown 
risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual 
results, performance or achievements of the group to be materially 
different from any future results, performance or achievements 
expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. 
Except as required by the Listing Rules and applicable law, Britvic 
undertakes no obligation to update or change any forward-
looking statements to reflect events occurring after the date such 
statements are published.

NOTE TO PRINTER 
INSERT FSC LOGO

Britvic takes care of the environment by choosing pureprint® environmental print 
technology. All the electricity used in the production of this report was generated from 
renewable sources and vegetable oil based inks were used throughout. The printer is a 
CarbonNeutral® company and certificated to Environmental Management System, ISO 
14001 and registered to EMAS, the Eco Management and Audit Scheme. 

The paper used in this production is made from 100% recycled waste with FSC® 
certification.

Designed by SG Design [sg-design.co.uk]

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
performance  
highlights

  All numbers in the Chairman’s statement, Chief 
Executive Officer’s Review and Chief Financial Officer’s 
Review in addition to those above, other than where 
stated, are disclosed before exceptional and other items 
and are presented on a constant currency basis. 
Underlying numbers exclude the impact of the equity 
placement in July. A list of definitions can be found on 
page 138 of the annual report.

sustainable 
business  
highlights

GROUP REVENUE
2015  £1,300.1m
2014  £1,344.4m

-0.6%

EBITA MARGIN
2015  13.2%
2014  12.0%

GROUP EBITA
2015  £171.6m
2014  £161.0m

+7.1%

UNDERLYING ROIC
2015  26.2%
2014  24.9%

+100bps

+130bps

ADJUSTED EARNINGS  
PER SHARE
2015  46.3p
2014  41.8p

+11.0%

DIVIDEND PER SHARE
2015  23.0p
2014  20.9p

+10.0% 

FREE CASH FLOW
2015  £89.3m
2014  £88.9m

+0.4%

RECONCILIATION FROM ACTUAL EXCHANGE RATE  
TO CONSTANT EXCHANGE RATE

Revenue
Group EBIT
Profit before tax
Profit after tax (PAT)
PAT after exceptional and 
other items
EBITA 
Adjusted earnings per share 

2014 actual  
 exchange rate 
£m
1,344.4
158.1
132.9
99.9
89.7

161.0
41.8

Change

£m
(35.9)
(0.5)
(0.4)
(0.1)
0.1

(0.8)
(0.1)

2014 constant  
exchange rate  
£m
1,308.5
157.6
132.5
99.8
89.8

160.2
41.7

GREAT PLACE TO WORK
2015 

70%

2014  64%

BITC CR INDEX
2015 

2 stars

2014  1 star

AVERAGE CALORIES 
PER 250ML
2015 

35.4

2014  37.6 

1 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report 
 
 
  
 
strategic report

Chairman’s 
introduction

Despite difficult market conditions, this 
past year has seen Britvic deliver a record 
EBITA of £171.6m, up 7.1%. Profit after 
tax of £112.5m has translated into 
underlying adjusted earnings per share* 
of 46.7p, an increase of 12.0%.The 
board is declaring a final dividend of 
16.3p, bringing the full year dividend to 
23.0p, a 10.0% increase on the previous 
year. We continue to remain fully 
committed to our progressive dividend 
policy and paying out 50% of earnings in 
dividends in the coming years. 

2   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

Performance review
This year marks Simon Litherland’s second full year as Chief Executive 
Officer. He and his team have continued to execute the strategy 
launched in 2013, and have now largely delivered the cost saving 
programme. In the annual report last year I highlighted the amount 
of change the organisation was undergoing, a major challenge for 
the company. Once again, the business as a whole has responded 
well to this challenge and has successfully executed our plans.

Trading conditions have been difficult across all our core markets. In 
the UK, in particular, our customers, the supermarkets, are facing a 
variety of structural challenges. The weather has also had an impact, 
to our benefit in France, but it worked against us in both GB and 
Ireland, where the wet summer prevented us from delivering four 
quarters of revenue growth. The new PET line in Leeds is now close 
to being operational and marks the start of an investment 
programme to ensure the business is fit for purpose for the years 
ahead, with further investment in 2016 also announced.

International expansion is a key element of the strategy. Progress in 
the USA has been slower than planned but it remains a priority and 
this summer we announced the acquisition of the Brazilian soft 
drinks company Empresa Brasileira de Bebidas e Alimentos SA 
(Ebba). This represents our first acquisition outside of Europe and 
whilst we are excited by the prospects for us in this market, the 
board recognises the current challenges that Brazil faces. I am 
reassured by the extensive due diligence undertaken prior to the 
acquisition and the funding structure in place that sees half of the 
consideration deferred until 2017. The board were very supportive of 
the acquisition and the raising of equity to part finance it. The board 
believes a prudent approach to the balance sheet is appropriate, 
giving the business the flexibility to undertake value creating projects, 
such as the supply chain investment programme.

Our people
I would like to thank all of our employees for their hard work and 
commitment throughout the year. We have continued to encourage 
employees to participate, where possible, in the share incentive 
schemes available. They offer significant rewards for much appreciated 
hard work and allow our people to share in the success of the business. 

The board
In the past year, there have been some changes to the board 
structure with new appointments and departures. After 16 years 
with the business, John Gibney will retire in April 2016. John has 
made a remarkable impact on the organisation and has contributed 
significantly to the growth and development of Britvic. On behalf of 
the board I would like to thank John for his exceptional service and 
wish him all the best for the future. 

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Mathew Dunn, who 
joined us in September and succeeds John Gibney as Chief 
Financial Officer following the preliminary results on 25 November 
2015, allowing a sensible transition period. He joins us from 
SABMiller plc, where he held the position of CFO of South African 
Breweries Ltd. The extensive knowledge and experience of both 
international markets and managing partnerships that Mathew 
brings with him will be invaluable in the coming years.

*  Underlying adjusted earnings per share excludes the impact of the 
share placement in July 2015, which increases the adjusted diluted 
EPS by 0.4 pence

strategic report chairman’s introduction continued

making  
life’s everyday 
moments more 
enjoyable

Bob Ivell has been our Senior Independent Director since we floated 
in 2005 and his counsel has been steady and wise. He reaches the 
end of his tenure as an independent director at the AGM in January, 
however, the board has asked Bob to remain on the board until it is 
satisfied that it has identified a suitable successor to replace him. 
Meanwhile, John Daly will take over from Bob as Senior Independent 
Director and Chairman of the Remuneration Committee from the 
conclusion of the AGM. John joined us in January 2015 after a 
distinguished executive career, latterly as Chief Operating Officer at 
BAT industries.

Lastly, Silvia Lagnado stepped down from the board in July. Silvia 
joined us last year and provided valuable insight and made a strong 
impact on the board. On behalf of the entire board I wish her the 
best of luck for the future in her new role as Chief Marketing Officer 
for McDonalds, based in the USA. We are currently in the process of 
identifying her successor.

The AGM will be held at 11am on Wednesday 27 January 2016 at 
the offices of Nomura, 1 Angel Lane, London, EC4R 3AB and I look 
forward to seeing you there. 

Gerald Corbett 
Chairman

3 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic reportmaking  
life’s everyday 
moments more 
enjoyable

strategic report

Britvic at a 
glance

Britvic’s purpose is to make life’s 
everyday moments more enjoyable. 
We offer a wide range of soft drinks to 
meet the many and varied needs of 
our consumers; at home or out and 
about, there is a great tasting, high 
quality Britvic brand for every occasion. 

The Britvic of today has come a long way from its mid-19th 
century origins in a chemist’s shop in Essex. The British 
Vitamin Product Company set the standard in the 1930s 
when it started bottling fruit juice to provide an easy and 
affordable source of vitamins to the local community.

Today Britvic is a leading international soft drinks company, 
with a strong heritage. We have operations in GB, Ireland 
and France and now Brazil, having acquired Empresa 
Brasileira de Bebidas e Alimentos SA (Ebba) on 30 
September 2015. We have also been taking our brands 
around the world, exporting to over 50 countries and 
working with carefully chosen partners in countries including 
the USA and India to franchise our brands. 

We have an enviable portfolio of leading brands and strong 
market positions. In GB and Ireland, we are the number one 
supplier of still soft drinks and the number two supplier of 
carbonates. Robinsons has long been the UK’s number one 
squash brand and J2O is the number one premium juice 
brand. Other brands like Tango, R Whites Lemonade as 
well as Britvic juices and mixers, are staples in UK shopping 
baskets or on a trip to the pub. Fruit Shoot is the number 
one kids’ soft drinks brand in the UK and is at the heart of 
our international expansion. In France we have the leading 
syrup brand, Teisseire, and Teisseire Fruit Shoot is now the 
number one kids’ juice drink. In Ireland, Ballygowan is the 
number one water brand, while MiWadi squash and the 
Club range are leaders in their categories. 

We are proud of our longstanding partnership with PepsiCo, 
which began in 1987. We make and sell a number of their 
brands, including Pepsi and 7UP in GB and Ireland,  
and are now partnering with PepsiCo as we roll out  
Fruit Shoot in the USA.

We are equally proud of our people who are critical to our 
success. We are committed to building a great place to work 
and making Britvic an inspiring place to be for our employees.

Britvic is listed on the London Stock Exchange  
under the code BVIC. Its market capitalisation at  
27 September 2015 was £1.8 billion.

4   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

 
strategic report Britvic at a glance continued

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

5 

 governance financial statements other information strategic reportstrategic report

our brands
Kids

Teisseire Fruit Shoot is the 
number one kids juice drink 
in France

Fruit Shoot 
Hydro has been 
reformulated 
with reduced 
sweetness and 
acidity levels

Family

Robinsons was relaunched in 2015, 
with new flavours, improved recipes 
and stand out packaging

MiWadi is Ireland’s number 
one squash brand

Adult

In 2015 we introduced 
lightly carbonated, lower 
calorie J2O Spritz

Purdey’s is a multivitamin fruit  
drink which helps you feel 
rejuvenated

Pepsi Max 
is the UK’s 
leading low 
sugar cola

Club Orange 
is the number 
one Irish soft 
drink

Portfolio
In our core markets we 
have a broad portfolio 
of carbonates and still 
brands including the 
brands that we bottle 
and market on behalf of 
PepsiCo. A selection  
of those brands is 
shown here.

6   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

strategic report our brands continued

In 2014, we stopped selling added 
sugar Fruit Shoot in the UK as part 
of our health commitments

Teisseire is the leading syrup brand in France

Maguary and Dafruta are the 
leading dilute brands in Brazil

Squash’d was voted Product of the 
Year 2015 in the drinks category

Teisseire adds a dash of French flair 
to cold and hot drinks

Ballygowan is 
the undisputed 
leader in the 
Irish bottled 
water market

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

7 

 governance financial statements other information strategic reportstrategic report

our 
business 
model

Britvic sets itself apart from its 
competitors by our unrivalled 
combination of market leading brands 
and track record in innovation, our 
expert knowledge of the soft drinks 
market, longstanding and sustainable 
relationships with our partners, 
including PepsiCo, and a highly 
talented and committed workforce.

We manufacture, market and sell both Britvic and PepsiCo brands in 
GB and Ireland, supported by dedicated commercial teams in both 
countries. In France, we manufacture, market and sell our own 
category-leading brands, as well as supplying private label juice and 
syrups. On 30 September, we completed the acquisition of Brazilian 
soft drinks company Ebba, which manufactures and sells the two 
leading liquid dilutable brands, Maguary and Dafruta, and has a 
growing presence in the ready to drink nectar category.

Internationally, we work primarily in partnership with local companies 
through franchise, distribution or licensing arrangements to exploit the 
global potential of our kids, family and adult brands. In the USA, we 
have agreements with a number of Pepsi bottlers and in India we are 
partnering with the Narang Group. We also export Britvic products 
around the world and are a significant player in the travel sector.

Our brands and innovations are built on the quality of our insight and 
understanding of the soft drinks markets in which we operate. We 
have a strong track record in innovation and our dedicated technical 
and consumer innovation teams are at the forefront of identifying 
consumer trends and new technologies to ensure that we deliver 
products that meet consumers’ evolving needs. Our marketing teams 
ensure that our brands are front of mind for our consumers.

We are committed to building sustainable relationships with all our 
partners, from suppliers of raw materials through to the customers 
who sell our brands.

We have developed an operating model which is based on the 
principles of simplicity, focus and accountability, to ensure we are 
cost-efficient and effective and can invest in the growth opportunities.

All of this allows us to deliver value to our shareholders, our 
customers and partners, the consumers who buy our brands, the 
communities in which we operate and to our employees.

GB, IRELAND AND FRANCE

BRITVIC

Raw materials

Manufacturing 
full goods

Marketing

Distribution

Customers

Consumers

INTERNATIONAL FRANCHISE
BRITVIC

PARTNER ACTIVITIES

Manufacturing 
compound

Marketing

Transport to  
international partner

Raw materials

Manufacturing 
full goods

Distribution

Customers

Consumers

INTERNATIONAL EXPORT
BRITVIC

PARTNER ACTIVITIES

Raw materials

Manufacturing 
full goods

Marketing

Export to  
international partner

Distribution

Customers

Consumers

8   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

 
 
 
strategic report our business model continued

MANUFACTURING
Our operations

MARKETING
Responsible 
marketing

CUSTOMERS
Commercial  
relationships

In GB we have factories in Leeds, 
Norwich, Rugby and East London. In the 
past year we have invested £25m in our 
Leeds factory, including a new flexible, 
high-speed PET bottling line. We have also 
announced investment in our Rugby and 
Beckton facilities.

All our marketing activity is governed 
by a Responsible Marketing Code, which 
acknowledges that soft drinks should be 
consumed as part of a balanced diet and 
lifestyle and that we have a particular  
responsibility to children. We do not market 
our drinks to children under the age of 12.

We pride ourselves on being a 
great company to do business with.

We work in partnership with our  
customers to grow both their  
businesses and our own.

In France we have factories in Crolles, 
Beziers, La Roche sur Foron and Nantes.

In Ireland we have factories in Dublin 
and Newcastle West.

We are committed to encouraging 
families to get more active together. In 
the past year we launched Fruit Shoot 
Mini Mudder in the UK, Ireland and the 
USA.

We fully understand the impact our 
operations have on the environment and 
are committed to efficient and sustainable 
production, as well as the highest quality 
standards.

For PepsiCo franchised brands 
in GB and Ireland we jointly fund 
and manage marketing campaigns, 
combining PepsiCo global collateral and 
local market activations.

Creativity is at the heart of our business 
and our marketing activity and we 
have a track record of award-winning 
campaigns.

In the last year, we have been 
acknowledged by the annual 
Advantage survey of food and drink 
companies as the number three 
supplier in GB and number one in 
Ireland, a step change improvement 
on the previous year.

Equally we value our relationships 
with our suppliers and are committed 
to long term, sustainable partnerships. 
As part of our responsible sourcing 
programme, all our partners are 
required to comply with our Ethical 
Business Policy and are subject to 
our annual audit programme. 

our 
geographies

We currently operate as four  
geographic business units:  
GB, France, Ireland and  
International. We report  
separately on each geography,  
with GB further segmented by  
stills and carbonates performance. 

FINANCIALS BY REGION

% SHARE BY REGION

Volume (million litres) 

GB  
France  
Ireland  
International  

Total 

1,584.2 
288.9 
202.2 
41.3

2,116.6

Revenue (£m) 

GB  
France  
Ireland  
International  

887.3 
240.3 
120.4 
52.1

Total 

1,300.1

Brand contribution (£m) 

GB  
France  
Ireland  
International  

Total 

376.2 
75.6 
44.2 
16.9

512.9

13.6

9.6

2.0

100%

74.8

4.0

9.3

18.5

100%

68.2

14.7

8.6

3.3

100%

73.4

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

9 

 governance financial statements other information strategic report other information 
 
 
 
 
strategic report

our strategy

We have a clear strategy that is 
designed to realise our ambition to 
become the most dynamic, creative 
and admired soft drinks company in 
the world and supports our purpose 
of making life’s every day moments 
more enjoyable. 

10   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

Generate profitable growth 
in our core markets
We have well-established operations in GB, 
Ireland and France, with a broad portfolio of 
leading brands. However, we see opportunities 
to improve our participation in both soft 
drink categories and sales channels. For 
example, in GB the water category is fast 
growing and there is strong potential to 
increase the penetration of our Ballygowan 
water brand, which we launched last year. 
Innovation will also be a key driver of growth. 
Innovation is at the heart of our business 
and we bring to market new products that 
offer consumers drinks for their changing 
needs. We continue to focus on disciplined 
revenue management, such as maximising 
the effectiveness of our promotions. 

In GB and Ireland we partner with PepsiCo 
to manufacture, market and sell its range of 
brands including Pepsi, 7UP, Lipton Ice Tea 
and Mountain Dew. The combination of the 
Britvic and PepsiCo brands gives us the 
most balanced portfolio in these markets 
and will continue to be a key aspect of our 
growth plans.

  Key performance indicator –  
net revenue growth

Launch of Pepsi Max Cherry

The Pepsi brand has continued to go 
from strength to strength in the past year. 
Pepsi Max, with its maximum taste, no 
sugar position, is an important part of 
our health strategy and in the past year 
we have introduced a new flavour, Pepsi 
Max Cherry. Pepsi Max is also a key part 
of the brand’s sponsorship of the UEFA 
Champions League. 

J2O Spritz launch
Earlier this year, we launched J2O Spritz, 
a low calorie, sparkling version of J2O, to 
give adults a more sophisticated soft 
drinks experience. Available in three 
flavours – Pear & Raspberry, Apple & 
Watermelon and Peach & Apricot, the 
range has already proved popular with 
consumers. 

strategic report our strategy continued

Continue to step change 
our business capability
We recognise that we need the right people, 
with the right capabilities to achieve our 
vision and we continue to focus on developing 
a winning culture. Improving efficiency is a 
priority across the business, to enable us to 
focus our resources against the future growth 
drivers. We are committed to develop a 
best-in-class supply chain, which will deliver 
significant cost savings and unlock both 
revenue and margin growth opportunities.

  Key performance indicators – EBITA margin 
growth, Great Place to Work survey

Growth – Performance – Success

In 2014, we launched Growth - 
Performance - Success (GPS), a new 
approach to performance management, 
learning and development and reward. 
GPS brings all of our core people 
processes and tools into one framework 
with a clear link to our vision, strategic 
goals and values. Every employee was 
supported with a multi-media approach 
to guide them, step by step through the 
process. We also designed and delivered 
in-house training and so far have 
supported 280 managers with this 
tailored in-house initiative.

New Leeds production line

We have invested £25m in the installation 
of a new PET line at our Leeds factory. 
The line will greatly improve productivity 
and marks the start of an investment 
programme to ensure the business is fit 
for purpose for the years ahead, with 
further investment planned for 2016. 
There will be clear environmental benefits, 
such as less waste and greater energy 
efficiency, as a result of the investment.

Exploit global opportunities 
in kids, family and adult 
categories
We have a number of brands in these 
categories, which have strong growth 
potential in a number of international 
markets. Our approach to maximising the 
opportunity is twofold, either working with 
local partners through franchise, distribution 
or licensing agreements or making selective 
acquisitions, where we can acquire strong 
local brands and routes to market.

Our priority is to deliver on the potential that 
we see for Fruit Shoot in the US and India 
and, of course, deliver the benefits from the 
acquisition of Ebba. 

  Key performance indicator –  
net revenue growth

Fruit Shoot in the USA

We have achieved national distribution 
of single serve Fruit Shoot in the past  
12 months and are well-placed to 
accelerate the growth of this format  
in the convenience and gas channel.  
In addition we have now established  
our route to market to 
launch into the grocery 
channel next year.

Ebba acquisition

In July we announced the acquisition of 
leading Brazilian soft drinks company, 
Ebba. Brazil offers strong long-term 
growth potential, despite the short-term 
headwinds. It is the sixth largest soft 
drinks market globally, and the second 
largest liquid dilutes category in the 
world. We have acquired the two leading 
liquid dilutable brands, Maguary and 
Dafruta. We intend to increase investment 
to drive these brands in their existing 
and new categories and see opportunities 
to introduce Britvic brands into Brazil in 
due course. 

Build trust and respect in 
our communities
We acknowledge the responsibility we have 
to contribute to our local economies and 
society more broadly whilst minimising our 
environmental impact. We are embedding 
our sustainable business strategy across all 
our business units to ensure that we deliver 
a strong performance with integrity. Key 
activity in support of this ambition includes 
the approach we have adopted to address 
public health challenges and tackling the 
carbon emissions associated with our 
business activities.

  Key performance indicators – Business in 
the Community CR Index, average calories 
per 250ml serve

Robinsons relaunch with no 
added sugar

Robinsons is the UK’s market leading 
squash. This year we relaunched the 
brand introducing new flavours and new 
recipes, to ensure we have the best 
tasting squash on the market, as well as 
redesigning packs for better stand out 
on shelf. Given our commitment to play a 
leading role within the soft drinks 
industry to help address the obesity 
issue, we took the decision to no longer 
produce added sugar Robinsons. 

Minimising carbon emissions

This year we continued to address our 
environmental impact by reducing our 
carbon emissions, both direct and indirect. 
We have successfully reduced our business 
travel emissions by 11%, reducing mileage 
and encouraging the use of greener, 
lower emission and electric vehicles. Our 
average fleet vehicle emissions (CO2 g/
km), including light commercial vehicles, 
decreased by 5.2% to 117.7g/km since 
last year. We have also continued to 
offset our GB employee-related business 
travel, supporting a deforestation project 
in the Amazon rainforest. This project 
works with local communities to help 
preserve the biodiversity of this area of 
global significance.

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

11 

 governance financial statements other information strategic report 
strategic report

key 
performance 
indicators

NET REVENUE GROWTH

Definition

Why we measure

Performance

Net revenue excludes the impact of foreign 
exchange rate movements.

This measure reflects our performance 
in terms of our ability to participate in our 
markets effectively and to raise prices and/
or grow volume sold.

Net revenue declined 0.6%, primarily 
reflecting the challenging conditions in GB.

EBITA MARGIN

Definition

Why we measure

Performance

The basis point movement in operating 
profit before exceptional items, interest,  
tax and acquisition-related amortisation, 
divided by net sales, after excluding the 
impact of exchange rate movements.

Improving operating margin is a key focus 
of the business and measures our ability to 
drive a positive mix and eliminate 
unnecessary cost. EBITA is preferred 
ahead of EBIT to allow for the impact of 
fair value amortisation that is generated 
when acquisitions are made.

EBITA margin was 13.2%, an improvement 
of 100bps. This reflects our disciplined 
approach to cost management, given the 
challenging market conditions.

EBITA

Definition

Why we measure

Performance

Earnings before exceptional items, interest, 
tax and acquisition-related amortisation.

EBITA measures the operating profit for the 
group.

EBITA increased to £171.6m, an 
improvement of 7.1%. This is primarily as a 
result of the disciplined cost management of 
the group underpinning profitability.

ADJUSTED EARNINGS PER SHARE

Definition

Why we measure

Performance

Earnings per share reflects the profitability 
of the business and how effectively we 
finance our balance sheet. It is a key 
measure for our shareholders.

Adjusted earnings per share was 46.3p, up 
11%, reflecting the growth in EBITA of 7.1% 
and the benefit of a reduction of £3.2m in 
net interest costs. 

Adjusted earnings before exceptional items, 
interest, tax and amortisation specifically 
related to fair value adjustments generated 
from acquisitions divided by the weighted 
average number of shares in issue. For 
reward purposes this measure is further 
adjusted for the impact of exchange rates 
and other factors not controlled by 
management, to ensure focus on our 
underlying performance drivers. 

12   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

strategic report key performance indicators continued

FREE CASH FLOW

Definition

Why we measure

Performance

Free cash flow is defined as net cash flow 
excluding movements in borrowings, 
dividend payments, exceptional and other 
items and proceeds from the share 
placement in July 2015.

Free cash flow is a key indicator of the 
financial management of the business and 
reflects the cash generated by the business 
to fund payments to our shareholders and 
acquisitions. 

Free cash flow was £89.3m, an increase of 
0.4% on last year. The improvement in EBIT 
and working capital was largely offset by an 
increase in other spend, including the timing 
of tax payments and the purchase of shares 
to satisfy share incentive schemes.

RETURN ON INVESTED CAPITAL (ROIC)

Definition

Why we measure

Performance

Profit before finance charges and exceptional 
items divided by average invested capital. 
Invested capital comprises net assets 
aggregated with exceptional restructuring 
costs and goodwill at the date of transition to 
IFRS, excluding post-employment liabilities 
and net borrowings. 

Return on invested capital (ROIC) is used 
by management to assess the return 
obtained from the group’s asset base. 
Improving ROIC builds financial strength to 
enable us to attain our financial objectives.

Return on invested capital (ROIC) was 
26.2%, an increase of 130bps. 

making  
life’s everyday 
moments more 
enjoyable

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

13 

 governance financial statements other information strategic reportstrategic reportr

Chief 
Executive  
Officer’s 
review

In May 2013 I laid out a new strategy 
for the group, with a focus on driving 
growth in the kids, family and adult 
categories, where we have market-
leading brands. In 2015 we continued 
to make good progress against this 
strategy, and delivered another year of 
excellent earnings growth.

Generate profitable growth in our core 
markets
Market conditions remained challenging across all our core markets. 
The retail landscape continued to evolve, with channels such as 
convenience, discounters, leisure and online benefiting at the 
expense of traditional, large supermarkets, where people are 
shopping less often. In addition, any increase in disposable income 
has not yet been reflected in their grocery spend on soft drinks. 
Consumers in all our markets are also more focused than ever on 
what they consume, with health and wellbeing increasingly 
important to purchasing decisions. With our broad portfolio, strong 
track record on innovation and a clear health strategy, Britvic 
remains well placed to respond to these trends. The weather this 
summer was particularly poor in both GB and Ireland, adversely 
impacting the soft drinks category, whilst in France the category, and 
syrups in particular, benefited from a very warm summer.

In GB we have taken market volume and value share overall. Whilst 
our GB stills performance was disappointing, with a marginal loss of 
share, J2O and Fruit Shoot continued to grow and take market share. 
We launched a number of new products over the course of the year 
to capitalise on consumer trends and stimulate category growth. We 
introduced our leading French brand Teisseire to GB, with a range of 
premium syrups as well as formats for mixing with hot drinks and 
alcohol. We also staged a major relaunch of the Robinsons brand 
this year. As well as introducing a significantly better tasting formula 
and new flavours, we took the decision to remove the added sugar 
variant from the range as part of our health strategy. The relaunched 
Robinsons range now offers affordable, great tasting drinks containing 
on average just five calories per glass. Although the squash category 
has been in decline, and Robinsons has not been immune to this, I 
am confident that the work we have done to date, and will continue 
to do, will see the brand return to growth in the near future. Robinsons 
Squash’d, the leading brand in the water enhancer category, was 
launched in 2014 and continues to capitalise on the growth of plain 
water, providing a great tasting way to hydrate on the go.

In carbonates we introduced Pepsi Max Cherry, which has been 
very successful. Max contains no sugar yet retains the full taste of 
Pepsi. It has led growth in the cola category and contributed 
significantly to the Pepsi brand growing its volume and value market 
share. 7UP and Tango have also undergone a refresh this year with 
new pack designs and marketing campaigns. Through the strength 
of these brands, supported by our innovations, we gained volume 
and value market share in the total carbonates category.

14   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

strategic report Chief Executive Officer’s review continued

In France, we have continued to outperform the total soft drinks 
market by a significant margin. Our syrup and juice brands, as well 
as Teisseire Fruit Shoot, have all taken market share. Five years on 
from the acquisition of the business, we have doubled profitability in 
France, despite difficult macro conditions. Innovation has been key 
to the growth this year with the Teisseire ‘pump pack’ and a new  
large bottle Fruit Shoot ‘sharing pack’ proving very popular with 
consumers.

In Ireland, we saw the business return to revenue growth, although 
the particularly poor summer weather impacted our performance in 
the final quarter, after three successive quarters of growth. The 
market remained subdued and deflationary; however, we gained 
market share, a testament to the strength of our brands in Ireland. 
MiWadi, Ballygowan, Fruit Shoot and Club all gained share, and the 
business is now well positioned to deliver growth in the coming 
years. We have also agreed a ten-year extension with PepsiCo for 
the distribution rights for 7UP, Pepsi and Mountain Dew in the 
Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland from 1 January 2016. 

Exploit global opportunities in kids, family 
and adult categories
The international business unit has embraced significant change this 
year to create the right operating model to deliver our future 
ambitions. In the Netherlands, we ended a long-term third party 
distribution agreement and established our own commercial team to 
manage the relationship with retailers. In the short-term, this resulted 
in some one-off costs, including the repurchase of stock from the 
distributor, but we are already seeing the benefit of the change, with 
new customer listings. In the USA, we changed the compound formula 
we send to our bottling partners, to enable a significant reduction in 
order lead times. This resulted in a reduction in stocks held by the 
bottlers; however, it creates a more flexible and responsive model for 
the future. In May we announced that we were continuing to evaluate 
the merits of the route to market options for Fruit Shoot multi-pack to 
grocery stores. I am pleased to confirm that this review has been 
concluded and we have appointed Advantage Sales & Marketing 
(ASM) as our partner. They will facilitate the relationship with key 
retailers as well as provide market insight and manage the order to 
cash process for us. Good progress has already been made in our 
discussion with retailers, with a number of initial listings already 
confirmed for launch in the first half of 2016. The Pepsi network 
remains important to us and they will continue to distribute Fruit 
Shoot in all other channels, as well as manufacturing in-market.  

We are making good progress with single-serve Fruit Shoot, achieving 
a 17% market share in the convenience and gas channel.

In the summer we announced the acquisition of Ebba, the leading 
manufacturer of liquid dilutes in Brazil. This provides Britvic with 
access to the sixth largest soft drinks market and the second largest 
liquid dilutes category in the world. Its two brands, Maguary and 
Dafruta, have a similar relevance to consumers as Robinsons, 
MiWadi and Teisseire in their home markets. The business has many 
similarities to the one we bought in France and it offers an excellent 
opportunity to create shareholder value in the medium-term. We 
recognise that economic conditions in Brazil are challenging, but our 
assessment is that we can deliver sustainable growth in the coming 
years. We have a clear plan to create value through reinvigorating 
the core concentrates category, accelerating growth in ready to drink 
nectars and introducing Britvic brands and innovation to the market.

Continue to step-change our business 
capability
People are at the heart of this business and our employees’ 
commitment has been unwavering over the last year. We have seen 
some changes to the executive team in the past year and we have 
recruited significant new talent to complement the team. John 
Gibney, our CFO, will retire in the spring of 2016 and I want to take 
this opportunity to personally thank him for the support he has given 
me since becoming CEO and also for his dedication to Britvic over 
the last 16 years. Replacing John is Mathew Dunn, who joined us 
from SABMiller, where he was CFO in South Africa. Mat has enjoyed 
a successful career in beverages across a number of continents, 
and also has extensive partnership and bottling experience. Also 
joining Mat on the executive team is Hessel De Jong, our new 
International MD. Hessel also has excellent beverage and general 
management experience in a number of markets, with companies 
such as Heineken and Coca Cola. Hessel replaces Simon Stewart, 
who has chosen to return to Australia with his young family. We wish 
Simon the very best for the future and thank him for his valuable 
service. Finally João Caetano De Mello Netto, who joined our 
business as a result of the acquisition of Ebba, joins the executive 
team, as Managing Director of Ebba. 

We have also recruited at all levels of the organisation, bringing in 
new talent and new ideas to complement the existing hugely talented 
team. I am confident that we have the right people in place and the 
organisational capacity to deliver our future growth ambitions. 

“ Consumers in all our markets are also more 

focused than ever on what they consume, with 
health and wellbeing increasingly important to 
purchasing decision. With our broad portfolio, 
strong track record on innovation and a clear 
health strategy, Britvic remains well placed to 
respond to these trends.”

15 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic reportstrategic report Chief Executive Officer’s review continued

We have also announced a business capability programme to 
unlock revenue, margin and profitable growth opportunities. In 2016 
we will be investing an additional £70m to £80m capital in our GB 
supply chain to start to create a best-in-class supply chain, 
generating a minimum annual cash return of 15% on an ongoing 
basis. This programme will provide us with additional capacity in 
growth packs, deliver cost savings, as well as enable us to 
participate more effectively in the evolving retail environment.

Build trust and respect in our communities
We have continued to make progress on our broad sustainability 
agenda, acknowledging the responsibility we have to be an active 
member of the communities in which we operate.

Public health and obesity have never been higher on the agendas of 
government, NGOs and the media. I am proud of how we have 
positioned Britvic to be part of the solution in playing an active role 
in encouraging healthier lifestyles. Over the past few years, we have 
significantly evolved our portfolio and in 2014, we launched our 
2020 health strategy. Last year, we took further bold steps to 
reduce the calorie content of our portfolio, including the removal of 
our added sugar variant of Robinsons. We also launched a number 
of innovations such as J2O Spritz and Club Zero, which are lower in 
calories. Read more about our health strategy and approach to 
sustainability on pages 22 to 27 of the annual report.

Overall, I am delighted with the progress we have made this year 
and am equally excited by the opportunities we have to continue to 
build our business capability, grow our brands and deliver strong 
shareholder returns.

Simon Litherland 
Chief Executive Officer

16   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

 
making  
life’s everyday 
moments more 
enjoyable

strategic report

Chief 
Financial  
Officer’s 
review

The following is based on Britvic’s results for the  
52 weeks ended 27 September 2015. All numbers 
quoted are on a constant currency basis and are 
pre-exceptional and other items, unless otherwise 
stated.

Overview 
In the period the group sold over 2.1 billion litres of soft drinks, 
an increase of 0.9% on the previous year, with Average 
Realised Price (ARP) of 60.5p, declining by 1.5%. The group’s 
revenue was £1,300.1m, down 0.6% compared to last year.

The focus has remained on building sustainable profit and 
margin improvement with the delivery of the strategic cost 
initiatives underpinning the 7.1% growth in EBITA, to 
£171.6m, and the resulting 100 basis points (bps) 
improvement in EBITA margin to 13.2%. The strategic cost 
initiative benefits have been realised in both brand 
contribution and in fixed costs. 

The disappointing summer weather in GB and Ireland 
contributed to a revenue decline in these markets in the final 
quarter and was a significant drag on the full year performance. 
This was partly offset by the strong performance in France 
where the weather was particularly good this summer.

17 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic reportstrategic report Chief Financial Officer’s review continued

GB stills

Volume (millions of litres)

ARP per litre

Revenue

Brand contribution

Brand contribution margin

52 weeks ended  

52 weeks ended  

27 September 2015
£m

28 September 2014
£m

% change
actual exchange rate

377.5

85.2p

321.6

151.1

47.0%

378.9

88.5p

335.2

159.4

47.6%

(0.4)

(3.7)

(4.1)

(5.2)

(60)bps

Stills performance this year was disappointing with both volume and 
ARP down, leading to revenue declining 4.1%. This was primarily due 
to the performance of Robinsons, which was impacted by both 
competitive pressures and our decision to remove the added sugar 
variant from the portfolio. As consumer trends move to ‘better for you’ 
products, Robinsons is well-positioned to capitalise on the future 

growth opportunities. Both Fruit Shoot and J2O grew revenue and 
gained market share whilst the introduction of Ballygowan has 
resulted in strong growth in the plain water category. A number of 
new products were also launched this year to provide longer-term 
growth in the category, including Teisseire and J2O Spritz.

GB carbonates

Volume (millions litres)

ARP per litre

Revenue

Brand contribution

Brand contribution margin

52 weeks ended
27 September 2015
£m

52 weeks ended
28 September 2014
£m

% change
actual exchange rate

1,206.7

46.9p

565.7

225.1

39.8%

1,204.7

47.1p

567.8

222.4

39.2%

0.2

(0.4)

(0.4)

1.2

60bps

Whilst full year revenue marginally declined, this was an out-performance 
of the carbonates category, as measured by Nielsen. Pepsi continued 
to see robust growth this year, and gained further significant volume 
and value share. The focus on the no-sugar Pepsi Max variant 
continued to be successful with the new cherry variant a key factor in 
the growth. Pack mix was also positive with single-serve packs in 

particular showing strong growth. Whilst we held share in fruit 
carbonates, revenue declined, outweighing the performance of Pepsi. 
Overall ARP declined 0.4% reflecting the impact of the competitive 
environment and brand mix. Brand contribution increased by 1.2% 
with margin expanding by 60bps.

France

Volume (millions litres)

ARP per litre

Revenue

Brand contribution

Brand contribution margin

52 weeks ended
27 September 2015
£m

52 weeks ended
28 September 2014
£m

% change
actual exchange rate

% change 
constant exchange rate

288.9

83.2p

240.3

75.6

31.5%

273.6

93.2p

254.9

67.1

26.3%

5.6

(10.7)

(5.7)

12.7

5.6

(1.3)

4.2

24.3

520bps

510bps

France benefited from the warm weather this summer during our 
fourth quarter, with syrups in particular showing strong growth. The 
customer environment was challenging with the emergence of retailer 
buying groups this year leading to significant pricing pressure, which 
was largely offset by favourable product mix. The continued focus on 
the kids and family categories, with a significant increase in A&P 
investment and the benefit of innovation launches, resulted in share 

gains in the syrups, juice and kids juice drinks categories. Brand 
contribution increased by 24.3% with margin expanding by 510bps. 
As well as the benefit of the positive brand mix there was the 
additional benefit of favourable raw materials and the move to 
in-market production for Teisseire Fruit Shoot resulting in significantly 
lower distribution costs.

18   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

strategic report Chief Financial Officer’s review continued

Ireland

Volume (millions litres)

ARP per litre

Revenue

Brand contribution

Brand contribution margin

52 weeks ended 
27 September 2015
£m

52 weeks ended
28 September 2014
£m

% change
actual exchange rate

% change 
constant exchange rate

202.2

49.7p

120.4

44.2

36.7%

197.0

54.1p

128.3

47.0

36.6%

2.6

(8.1)

(6.2)

(6.0)

10bps

2.6

(1.0)

1.3

2.8

50bps

Note:  
Volumes and ARP include own-brand soft drinks sales and do not include factored product sales included within total revenue and brand contribution. 

Revenue in Ireland was up on last year for three successive quarters, 
with the poor weather across the summer contributing to a decline in 
quarter four. Full year volume increased by 2.6% whilst ARP declined 
by 1.0% leading to a revenue increase of 1.3%. The soft drinks 
market continued to be very competitive with deflationary pressure. 

Whilst the market was challenging we outperformed the market, 
gaining both volume and value share, with our own brand portfolio 
performing particularly well. The Counterpoint business also 
performed well.

International

Volume (millions litres)

ARP per litre

Revenue

Brand contribution

Brand contribution margin

52 weeks ended
27 September 2015
£m

52 weeks ended
28 September 2014
£m

% change
actual exchange rate

% change 
constant exchange rate

41.3

126.2p

52.1

16.9

32.4%

44.3

131.4p

58.2

21.0

36.1%

(6.8)

(4.0)

(10.5)

(19.5)

(6.8)

(0.0)

(6.8)

(16.7)

(370)bps

(390)bps

Note:  
Concentrate sales are included in both revenue and ARP but do not have any associated volume.

During the year a direct route to market model was established in the 
Netherlands. This resulted in a one-off adjustment due to the 
re-purchase of stock from the previous distributor. In addition, there 
has been a reclassification from overheads to revenue of specific 
customer investment costs as a result of the change of business 
model. At the start of the year the USA compound model was 

altered to reduce the lead time on orders from our bottling partners. 
Both of these changes provide a platform for sustainable future 
growth. In-market performance in the USA was encouraging with 
retail sales value increasing by 23% over the previous year. Increased 
investment in A&P also contributed to the 16.7% decline in brand 
contribution.

Fixed costs

Non-brand A&P

Fixed supply chain

Selling costs

Overheads and other

Total

Total A&P investment

A&P as a % of own-brand revenue

52 weeks ended
27 September 2015
£m

52 weeks ended
28 September 2014
£m

% change
actual exchange rate 

(9.7)

(92.6)

(118.6)

(123.0)

(343.9)

(71.1)

5.6%

(9.9)

(101.8)

(120.7)

(126.4)

(358.8)

(72.0)

5.4%

2.0

9.0

1.7

2.7

4.2

1.3

(20)bps

Fixed costs declined by 4.2% to £343.9m. During the year the 
residual benefits of the 2014 strategic cost initiatives were achieved, 
such as the benefits of the factory closures in GB and the 
consolidation of GB and Ireland back-office functions. We have 

further invested in the international business unit and the strategic 
marketing and innovation function. A&P spend marginally decreased 
by 1.3% to £71.1m, with the percentage of revenue measure 
increasing by 20bps to 5.6%.

19 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic reportstrategic report Chief Financial Officer’s review continued

Exceptional and other items 
In the period, we accounted for a net charge of £9.4m of pre-tax 
(£8.7m post tax) exceptional and other costs. These include:

•  Brazil acquisition-related costs of £6.5m

•   Strategic restructuring costs related to the 2013 cost initiatives 

programme of £3.6m, within the original cumulative guidance of £29m

•   Business capability programme adviser fees and business 

continuity costs of £1.4m

•  Fair value gains of £0.9m

•  Gains on disposal of property and assets of £1.2m.

The cash costs of exceptional and other items in the period were 
£8.6m.

Interest 
The net finance charge before exceptional and other items for the  
52-week period for the group was £22.0m compared with £25.2m 
in the same period in the prior year, reflecting the lower debt profile 
of the group, the benefit of the increased free cash flow generation and 
the refinancing of the group bank facilities earlier in the financial year. 

Taxation 
The tax charge before exceptional and other items was £34.5m 
which equates to an effective tax rate of 23.5% (52 weeks ended 28 
September 2014: 24.8%). The decrease in the effective tax rate 
reflects the decrease in the UK corporate tax rate during the period 
and the utilisation of trading losses in Ireland. In addition, the group 
has incurred further start-up losses in certain territories as a part of 
its international expansion, for which no tax relief is currently 
available.

Earnings per share
Adjusted basic EPS for the period was 46.3p. Adjusted underlying 
basic EPS for the period, excluding exceptional and other items and 
acquisition related amortisation, as well as the weighted average 
number of shares related to July share placing, was 46.7p, up 
12.0% on the same period last year (41.8p). Basic EPS (after 
exceptional and other items charges post-tax) for the period was 
41.8p compared with 36.5p for the same period last year.

Dividends
The board is recommending a final dividend of 16.3p per share, an 
increase of 10.1% on the dividend declared last year, with a total 
value of £42.6m. The final dividend will be paid on 5 February 2016 
to shareholders on record as at 4 December 2015. The ex-dividend 
date is 3 December 2015.

Cash flow and net debt
Free cash flow was a £89.3m inflow, compared to a £88.9m inflow 
the previous year. Working capital was an inflow of £10.3m (2014: 
£1.6m outflow) as a result of a one-off change in supplier payment 
terms. Capital expenditure was £3.6m higher than last year, driven 
by the continued implementation of the strategic initiatives. Other 
spend increased by £17.1m and included £9.2m of own share 
purchases to satisfy share incentive schemes (2014: £nil) and higher 
tax payments, largely driven by timing differences. Overall adjusted 
net debt reduced by £117m and took our leverage to 1.3x EBITDA 
from 1.9x last year. In July 2015, £87.8m cash was received from 
the issue of shares under a non pre-emptive placing, subsequently 
used in consideration for the acquisition of Ebba. The adjusted net 
debt (taking into account the foreign exchange movements on the 
derivatives hedging our US Private Placement debt) at 27 
September 2015 was £263.9m, compared to £380.9m at the end of 
last year.

Treasury management
The financial risks faced by the group are identified and managed by 
a central treasury department, whose activities are carried out in 
accordance with board approved policies and subject to regular 
Audit and Treasury Committee reviews. The department does not 
operate as a profit centre and no transaction is entered into for 
trading or speculative purposes. Key financial risks managed by the 
treasury department include exposures to movements in interest 
rates and foreign exchange rates whilst managing the group’s debt 
and liquidity, currency risk, interest rate risk and cash management. 
The group uses financial instruments to hedge against interest rate 
and foreign currency exposures. On 17 December 2014, Britvic plc 
repaid US$30m of notes in the United States private placement 
market (USPP) using surplus cash available at the time. The 2009 
cross currency interest rate swap instruments, which had been 
designated as part of a cash flow hedge relationship against the 
future cash flows associated with this maturing portion of the 2009 
notes, also matured on 17 December 2014.

At 27 September 2015 the group has £902m of committed debt 
facilities consisting of a £400m bank facility which matures in 2020 
subject to potential extensions to 2021 and a series of private 
placement notes with maturities between 2016 and 2026 providing 
the business with a secure funding platform. At 27 September 2015, 
the group’s unadjusted net debt of £335.7m (excluding derivative 
hedges) consisted of £0.5m drawn under the group’s committed 
bank facilities, £574.0m of private placement notes, £3.4m of 
accrued interest and £0.2m of finance leases, offset by net cash and 
cash equivalents of £239.6m and unamortised loan issue costs of 
£2.8m. After taking into account the element of the fair value of 
interest rate currency swaps hedging the balance sheet value of the 
private placement notes, the group’s adjusted net debt was 
£263.9m which compares to £380.9m at 28 September 2014.

20   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

strategic report Chief Financial Officer’s review continued

Pensions
At 27 September 2015, the IAS 19 pension surplus in respect of the 
group defined benefit pension schemes was £17.3m (28 September 
2014: net deficit of £8.4m). The reduction in the deficit was driven by 
the additional employer contributions made to the GB plan of £20.4m, 
combined with positive investment performance over the period, 
offset by higher liabilities due to changes in the financial assumptions.

The defined benefit section of the GB pension plan is closed to all 
new members and future accrual. The NI Plan is open to future 
accrual for members on 28 February 2006, and new employees from 
this date are eligible to join the defined contribution plan. The Britvic 
Ireland Defined Benefit Plan introduced a pensionable salary cap of 
€50,000 and removed guaranteed pension increases from 1 January 
2012, and new employees join the Ireland defined contribution plan.

The 1 January 2015 actuarial valuation of the Britvic Ireland Defined 
Benefit Plan has been completed and shows there was no past 
service deficit. The Northern Ireland Defined Benefit Pension Plan 
valuation is underway and will be completed early in 2016. The GB 
Pension Plan actuarial valuation date is due as at 31 March 2016.

The Ireland and Northern Ireland Defined Benefit Pension Plans have 
an investment strategy journey plan to manage the risks as the 
funding position improves. The GB Pension Plan mainly has 
credit-type investments and the Trustees have developed proposals 
to manage the investment risks.

John Gibney 
Chief Financial Officer

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

21 

 governance financial statements other information strategic report 
strategic report

sustainable
business 
review

Sustainability is at the heart of our 
business. We balance the need to 
remain commercially successful, with 
the need to make a positive 
contribution to society and limit our 
impact on natural resources.

We measure our performance annually through 
the Business in the Community (BITC) Corporate 
Responsibility (CR) Index. We are proud of the 
progress we are making but there is more to 
do. This year we achieved a two-star rating as 
a result of our BITC CR Index submission. Our 
ambition is to achieve four stars by 2020.

 Find out more about our sustainable business  
programme at www.britvic.com and through our annual 
Sustainable Business Report

Our sustainability priorities
We conduct a stakeholder materiality review annually to ensure that 
our sustainable business programme is focused on the key issues 
identified by our stakeholders.

This year we received over 500 responses from a mixture of 
customers, suppliers, NGOs, investors, analysts, media, consumers 
and employees. Based on this feedback, we believe that our 
programme is appropriate, although we have identified a need to 
communicate our activity and progress on a more regular basis.

Consumer health
We believe that all of our drinks can be enjoyed as part of a balanced 
diet and healthy lifestyle, however we recognise that issues associated 
with declining consumer health is a growing problem in many of the 
markets in which we operate. We intend to take a leading role in the 
soft drinks industry in inspiring and enabling people to make 
informed choices to live healthier and more active lives.

Following the withdrawal of added sugar Fruit Shoot from the UK 
market in 2014, we also removed added sugar Robinsons as part  
of the relaunch of the brand. In Ireland we continued to support Club 
Zero and launched MiWadi Zero. We also ran an impactful marketing 
campaign in both markets, to remind consumers that both 
Robinsons and MiWadi are a low calorie way for families to drink 
more water. We have continued to encourage active lifestyles 
through our marketing campaigns, including our sponsorships of  
the Tour de France and Wimbledon tennis championships and  
the launch of Fruit Shoot Mini Mudder in GB, Ireland and the USA.

22   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

strategic report sustainable business review continued

Our health strategy commits us to reducing the average calories per 
250ml serve across our portfolio by 20% by 2020 and to using the 
power of our brands to inspire 20 million people to actively play together. 
In the last year, across the business, we reduced our average calories 
per 250ml serve by 5.8% to 35.4 and we encouraged and inspired 
2.6 million people to get active.

Supporting our communities
We encourage our people to support local communities by offering 
three paid days a year or two hours per month to volunteer. This 
year nearly 50% of our employees volunteered, following a promotional 
call for help to facilitate sessions with disadvantaged young people. 
Whilst our ‘total cash-led’ contributions are down this year to £822,609 
we believe our volunteering activity made a significant contribution to 
our communities. We also continue to support young people’s charity, 
Street League, in the UK.

In October 2014, for the third consecutive year, MiWadi, Ireland’s 
number one dilute brand, supported “Trick or Treat for Temple 
Street” to raise much-needed funds to help provide care and 
lifesaving equipment for children undergoing medical treatment. The 
results exceeded expectations with the campaign raising €320,000.

Creating a great place to work for our 
employees
We recognise that our people are central to our success and to 
achieving our future ambitions. We currently employ over 3,000 
people around the world (excluding Brazil) and have a talented and 
dedicated workforce. We want Britvic to be an inspiring, safe place 
to be and for our people to realise their ambitions. 

Each and every employee is guided by a common purpose, our 
ambitious vision and our values, which are integrated into our people 
processes and programmes, including our new performance 
management, reward and talent programme – Growth-Performance-
Success.

We measure our overall employee engagement through the Great 
Place to Work survey, which allows all our people to anonymously 
feedback their views. We have now completed the survey for three 
successive years and have achieved continued improvement.

Performance against our key indicators shows the progress we have 
made:

Great Place to Work 
(2020 goal: 80%+) 
Diversity 
(2020 goal: 40% female managers) 

70% 
(64% last year)
37%
(35% last year)

Learning and development
We are committed to nurturing and growing our employees at all 
levels, enabling them to lead Britvic into the future. We encourage 
them to own and grow their careers within Britvic. 

We continue to run an extensive learning and development curriculum, 
which offers all employees the chance to improve their core business 
skills and managers the opportunity to enhance their line management 
skills. We also run programmes tailored to the needs of specific 
areas of the business.

making  
life’s everyday 
moments more 
enjoyable

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

23 

 governance financial statements other information strategic reportstrategic report sustainable business review continued

We are currently rolling out the ‘Great Britvic Manager’ standard, to 
facilitate development discussions between employees and their line 
manager and support either existing managers or those who want to 
progress into a management role to optimise their personal growth plans. 

In the past year we have continued to recruit a number of senior leaders 
from outside our industry to bring new capabilities to our team. 

Communication and engagement
Engagement with our employees is a priority for us and we keep 
people informed about our business, its performance and things that 
affect them through a variety of channels. These include our intranet, 
Teamlink, our monthly digital update, and Teamtalk, our regular face 
to face engagement meetings. Our quarterly magazine, Britvic Life, 
is available to all employees. 

We have well established Employee Involvement Forums in GB and 
Ireland as well as a Britvic Group Forum, with nominated employee 
representatives who ensure that employees’ views are taken into 
account regarding issues that are likely to affect them. Where the 
group has entered into a recognition agreement with a trade union,  
it fulfils its obligations to consult and negotiate accordingly.

Health, safety and wellbeing
The health, safety and wellbeing of our employees is paramount to 
the company. We have a Health, Safety and Wellbeing Committee 
which is chaired by our General Counsel and which has cross-functional 
representation and is also supported by health and safety specialists 
from across the group. 

A key focus of our health and safety programme this year was driver 
safety. Previously, all drivers within the business completed basic risk 
assessments but this year we have launched a new driver risk 
assessment e-learning module which identifies high risk and high 
mileage drivers to receive on-road training. This latest development 
has been launched to all new starters within GB with plans for a 
further roll-out in 2016.

Sharing in success
We proactively monitor our total pay and benefits offering as part of 
our reward philosophy which is based on delivering competitive 
salaries and benefits, performance-related bonus opportunities and 
widespread share ownership opportunities. 

In a number of our markets pay for large populations of our 
employees is determined with trade union representatives on the 
basis of fair terms and conditions for all members. 

GB based employees on average currently hold shares equivalent to 
£14,000 or 34% of average basic salary as a result of their participation 
in our longstanding Share Incentive Plan (SIP). The SIP provides free 
share awards to participants each year, subject to company 
performance, which they then hold for a minimum of three years. The 
SIP also provides participants with the opportunity to purchase 
additional shares in Britvic as well as receive further matching awards. 

Profit sharing plans also operate in Ireland and France to allow 
participants to share in the success of Britvic and similar 
arrangements will be extended to other countries in the near future. 

Management pay and bonuses are linked to business performance 
and their personal contribution. Selected senior executives also receive 
annual awards of long-term incentives to directly align their packages 
with sustainable shareholder creation. Pay outs under these plans 
depends on Britvic’s performance over a three-year period. 

We also provide competitive pension and healthcare benefits in 
addition to statutory arrangements.

Diversity
Our 2020 diversity goal is to have at least 40% female representation 
within senior management levels. This year our proportion grew to 
37%, an increase of 2% on last year. Following the resignation of 
Silvia Lagnado from the board during the year, our current female 
representation on the board is one (12.5%). Across the wider 
workforce, females make up 42%. 

We currently run a Wellness@work programme in GB and Ireland. In 
the past year we have reviewed our future strategy and over the next 
12 months will deliver the first steps of the new programme, 
enhancing the support for our employees.

At Britvic, we consider diversity to be broader than gender, ethnicity, 
disability or sexual orientation. We are committed to encouraging an 
environment where we celebrate individual genius through the 
promotion of diversity of thought.

SENIOR MANAGERS

WIDER WORKFORCE

37

%

63

42

%

58

Gender diversity
BOARD 
(including non-executives)

12.5

%

87.5

24   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

strategic report sustainable business review continued

Equal opportunities
We are committed to providing equal opportunities to our current and 
potential employees, and apply fair and equitable employment policies. 

People with disabilities
We accord equal opportunities to people with disabilities, whether 
registered or not, when applying for vacancies and in subsequent 
training and career development. For those employees who become 
disabled while employed by the company, we do everything we can 
to provide the opportunity for them to remain with Britvic; this may 
involve retraining or redeployment.

Encouraging disadvantaged young people 
to develop new skills
Our in-house Learning Zones continued to welcome teachers and 
students via our Enterprise and Employability workshops, reaching 
500 teachers and 30,000 students in total since 2009. We are 
committed to building upon the foundations set by our Learning 
Zone programme and next year will evolve the programme to focus 
on building impactful relationships between industry and the 
education sector through career inspiration days. The programme 
will be aimed at those studying either STEM subjects looking for 
careers in engineering or business studies where they are perhaps 
considering a career in marketing.

Water stewardship
This year we have continued to drive water efficiency in our 
production processes and reduced our absolute water footprint 
across our manufacturing sites by 2.2% compared to 2014* to 
3,601,280m³. We set ourselves a 2.5% reduction relative to 
production, however our water intensity ratio increased by 1.3% to 
1.96 across all our manufacturing sites. This can predominantly be 
attributed to the reclassification of some Pepsi products (CAT 3) 
which has led to the need for more frequent cleaning interventions.

*2014 water figures have been updated as a reporting discrepancy was 
identified. Correct figures across the plc are displayed in the 2015 
Sustainable Business Report

Climate change
Climate change remains a very real threat and we recognise that 
businesses like ourselves, along with the Government and society 
as a whole must act together to deliver a sustainable solution. 

Anticipating a number of changes this year, we set ourselves a 
moderate 1% reduction target on our direct CO2 emissions per 
tonne of product produced from our manufacturing sites across the 
group against last year. However, we significantly improved on the 
target, with a 5.8% reduction in our emissions relative to production 
and 5.4% in absolute emissions to 53,673 tonnes. These emissions 
are solely from our manufacturing sites. This equated to a 3,100 
tonne saving in CO2 emissions over the course of the year, 
equivalent to the energy used to power 1,648 UK homes.

We also continued to participate in the CDP Investor Response 
survey and improved our disclosure score significantly from 79B last 
year to 91C this year. This result affirms our progress on this 
important topic and our commitment to being open and transparent 
on our programme.

The table below sets out the quantities of greenhouse gas emissions 
in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) for our office and 
manufacturing locations for the 52 weeks ended 27 September 
2015. The table also contains the previous year’s reported emissions 
to show our progress.

We have reported on all of the emission sources required under  
the Companies Act 2006 (Strategic Report and Directors’ Reports) 
Regulations 2013; these sources fall within our consolidated 
financial statement. Emissions outside of our responsibility, including 
shared office locations and those originating from our franchise 
partners, have been omitted from our disclosure. We have used  
the GHG Protocol Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard 
(revised edition) and emission factors from the UK Government’s 
GHG Conversion Factors for Company Reporting 2015.

2014-2015 emissions
(tonnes CO2e)

2013-2014 emissions
(tonnes CO2e)

2012-2013 emissions
(tonnes CO2e)

Total Scope 1 and 2 CO2e emissions

60,613

19,745

40,869

90,220*

Emissions from:

Scope 1: Combustion of fuel and 
operation of facilities

Scope 2: Electricity, heat, steam and 
cooling purchased for our own use

Scope 3: Downstream transportation and 
distribution, business travel, downstream 
leased assets (refrigeration portfolio)

Intensity measure:

Scope 1 and 2 emissions reported above 
normalised to per thousand tonne of 
product output

60,669

17,965

42,704

66,756

22,402

44,354

111,431*

112,618*

* Excludes business travel 
for Ireland and downstream 
transportation in France

* Excludes business travel 
for Ireland and downstream 
transportation in France

* Excludes business travel for Ireland 
and France and downstream 
transportation in France

32.4 tonnes CO2e/1000 
Tonne produced

32.5 tonnes CO2e/1000 
Tonne produced

34.9 tonnes CO2e/1000 
Tonne produced

25 

fi
n
a
n
c
a

i

l

s
t
a
t
e
m
e
n
t
s

o
t
h
e
r

i

n
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance strategic report 
 
 
 
strategic report sustainable business review continued

Packaging/waste
Making our packaging more sustainable is an important element of 
our sustainable business programme. We recognise that packaging 
is a critical component of our products and we have a responsibility 
to ensure the environmental impacts are minimised throughout its 
life cycle, from the materials we use to produce the packaging 
through to how our consumers dispose of it.

This year we developed our Sustainable Packaging Policy to 
address these considerations. The policy, due to be launched in 
2016, outlines our approach to producing packaging formats that 
have been ethically sourced with the lowest possible environmental 
footprint, whilst ensuring the required functionality to protect, 
transport and present our products and brands. 

Lightweighting our packaging has been a major focus for us over 
the past decade as we strive to reduce the environmental impact of 
our packaging. We are now reaching the limit of our ability to do 
this, and have taken the decision this year to begin a programme of 
investment in our supply chain to enable our access to the next level 
of environmentally sustainable technologies and those we expect to 

be available by 2020 and beyond. With the planned investment at 
our Rugby and Beckton manufacturing sites, together with the new 
line at Leeds coming into operation during 2016, we are excited 
about the future prospects for our packaging. Alongside the 
investments being made at our GB manufacturing sites we are also 
investigating lightweighting opportunities in Ireland with testing 
carried out this year on our Ballygowan pack.

Responsible sourcing
Our supplier quality assurance programme is designed to ensure 
our suppliers consistently provide materials that meet our stringent 
specifications in accordance with the Britvic Technical Code of 
Practice. The Technical Code of Practice ensures any potential risks 
to the safety, legality and quality of the final product originating from 
raw materials (including packaging) are fully understood and 
managed accordingly. In addition to internal regulatory checks and 
laboratory tests on new raw materials, all new suppliers are required 
to provide detailed information on their manufacturing, quality and 
food safety control processes for risk assessment purposes. 

Our sustainable business performance

Pillar

FY15 target

Performance

Healthy lifestyles

Reduce the average number of calories consumed 
per serve across the entire portfolio by 4%

5.8% reduction achieved. Average calorie count per 
250ml serve of 35.4 across the group

Display calorie content of our drinks on front of 
pack in GB

All drinks, excluding sports and water, now display 
calorie content on front of pack in GB

Inspire and encourage two million people to 
actively play together

2.6 million people inspired and encouraged to actively 
play together across the group

Update and relaunch our Responsible 
Marketing Code

Responsible Marketing Code updated and launched 
across the group

Great Place to Work

Prosperous communities

Achieve 65% in Great Place to Work Trust 
Index survey in GB

Achieve 85% in Great Place to Work Diversity 
Index survey in GB

Double the number of our GB employees 
involved in volunteering in our Learning Zone 
programmes to 5%, enabling over 3,000 
disadvantaged young people into jobs or back 
into education since FY13

70% Trust Index rating achieved

87% Diversity Index rating achieved

6.6% of GB employees volunteered in our Learning 
Zone programmes

Responsible sourcing

Achieve 20% increase in direct supplier sites 
using Sedex against FY14

90% increase on FY14 achieved.

(77% direct suppliers now linked to us).

Instruct third party ethical audits for 50 supplier 
sites

53 supplier sites instructed

Water stewardship

Achieve 2.5% reduction in water intensity ratio 
across the group against FY14

1.3% increase achieved in water intensity ratio across 
group to 1.96

Sustainable packaging

Develop sustainable packaging strategy

Sustainable packaging policy drafted ready for launch 
in 2016

Climate Change

Achieve 1% reduction in direct CO2 emissions 
per tonne product produced from our 
manufacturing sites across the plc against FY14

5.8% reduction achieved in direct CO2 emissions per 
tonne product produced from our manufacturing sites 
across the plc against FY14 baseline

26   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

strategic report sustainable business review continued

Where deemed necessary, Britvic conducts audits of the suppliers 
against the requirements of the Technical Code of Practice. This year 
we instructed over 50 supplier sites to undergo third party ethical 
audits to our preferred SMETA 4 Pillar audit standard. 

We also linked up with CIPS (Chartered Institute for Procurement & 
Supply) to develop our programme for managing our indirect supply 
chain. The Indirects Supplier Portal was developed to monitor the 
compliance of our indirect supply chain. This online technology 
platform enables buyers and suppliers to collaborate and share data 
on relevant issues. We have also implemented the CIPS 
Sustainability Index (SI). This builds upon the Supplier Portal, with key 
suppliers completing a sustainability assessment across economic, 
environmental and social pillars. To date 44% of our indirect supply 
base is now registered on the Indirects Supplier Platform and we 
plan to increase this to 80% by the end of 2016. 

Human rights
Our human rights policy is set out in our Ethical Business Policy. This 
applies to our employees, our suppliers and partners and anyone 
working on behalf of our business. It covers avoiding bribery and 
corruption, conducting business with respect, integrity and equality 
and managing personal activities and interests. It also covers 
responsible trading and sets out our standards regarding human 
rights, health and safety and environmental responsibilities and what 
we expect of our suppliers and other trading partners, which are 
monitored through our responsible sourcing programme.

We run a confidential whistle blowing hotline for anyone who is 
concerned about a breach of the policy. All our employees from the 
board down are trained and required to complete an on-line test to 
ensure compliance to the policy.

Read our Ethical Business Policy at www.britvic.com

g
o
v
e
r
n
a
n
c
e

fi
n
a
n
c
a

i

l

s
t
a
t
e
m
e
n
t
s

o
t
h
e
r

i

n
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

27 
27 

 strategic report 
 
 
 
 
strategic report

our risks

As with any business we face risks and 
uncertainties. We believe that effective risk 
management supports the successful 
delivery of our strategic objectives and 
this can be achieved by ensuring 
appropriate awareness and engagement 
across the business to drive robust risk 
assessment, review and mitigation.

risk impact new or increasing

risk impact unchanged

The board has overall accountability for ensuring that risk is 
effectively managed across the group and is supported by the Audit 
Committee in reviewing the effectiveness of the group risk process. 
Each business area is responsible for identifying, assessing and 
managing the risks in their respective area with a clear owner for 
each risk. The major risks are reported and reviewed by the 
executive team on a quarterly basis and with the board at least twice 
a year. 

Key areas of focus
We continue to drive improvements to our risk management 
process and the quality of risk information generated, whilst at the 
same time maintaining a straightforward approach. The Executive 
Committee and board considered the risks described below as the 
principal risks facing our business during the year. These are not the 
only risks that may impact the group but they are the ones that we 
believe are the most significant at this time. 

PRINCIPAL 
RISK

Consumer 
preference 

RISK

MITIGATION

Consumer preferences, tastes and behaviours evolve over 
time and differ between the different markets in which we 
operate. Our ability to anticipate and successfully respond 
to this evolving landscape is important to our business. It 
is essential that we continue to differentiate our brands 
and create innovative products. Failure to anticipate 
changing consumer preferences and needs could result in 
consumers switching away from Britvic products.

We offer a broad range of products across a number of 
sub-categories and markets. We closely monitor 
consumer trends in order to anticipate changes in 
preferences and match our offerings to these trends 
through our brand and innovation plans. Our portfolio 
of brands and track record in innovation means that we 
are well placed to continue to meet changing 
consumer needs and preferences. For example in GB 
this year we launched J2O Spritz and Teisseire and 
continued the roll-out of the Ballygowan water brand 
and in France our Teisseire pump pack is going from 
strength to strength.

Health and 
obesity concerns

There are different consumer preferences in various markets 
to sugar, natural and artificial sweeteners. However there is 
currently a high level of media and government scrutiny on 
health and obesity in our core markets; GB, Ireland and 
France. ‘Sugary drinks’ are often cited as one of the issues 
affecting national obesity levels in media reports. There is a 
risk that one or more governments may introduce legislation 
that impacts on sugar sweetened soft drinks. Additionally, 
negative reporting and lack of understanding could result in 
consumers switching away from our products or spending 
less on soft drinks.

We work closely with governments, NGOs and trade 
associations in our markets to fully participate in the 
debate and help shape solutions.

We offer a wide range of soft drinks, many of which are 
low or no sugar, and believe our portfolio is well placed 
to meet consumers’ changing needs. We continue to 
reformulate products where we can to reduce sugar 
levels and have removed some added sugar products 
from the market. For example, we recently removed all 
Robinsons and Fruit Shoot added sugar variants from 
our offering in GB.

Retailer 
landscape and 
customer 
relationships

Maintaining strong relationships with customers is critical 
for our brands to be available and well presented to our 
consumers. There is a risk that we may not be able to 
maintain strong relationships or respond to changes in the 
retailer landscape that may impact our terms of business 
with customers and/or the availability and presentation of 
our brands.

Third party 
relationships 

Our partnership with PepsiCo and distributors and 
franchisees is an important part of our business and 
delivery of our strategy going forward. We currently bottle 
and co-market a number of PepsiCo products in GB and 
Ireland, including 7UP and Pepsi. Additionally we have a 
relationship with a number of partners around the world to 
grow our family, adult and kids brands outside of our core 
markets. There is a risk that these partnerships may not 
be renewed or renewed on less favourable terms which 
could have a significant impact on our business.

28   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

Additionally we play a leading role in encouraging people 
to live healthier lifestyles through our consumer 
marketing campaigns. With our broad portfolio and track 
record in innovation, we equally consider this to be an 
opportunity for our business.

We operate across many different customer channels and 
markets. We closely monitor customer performance and 
trends in order to be able to respond to these changes. We 
work in partnership with our customers to develop 
compelling offerings for their shoppers based on our 
understanding of their business and the soft drinks 
category. Recently we invested in a new high-speed PET 
line in Leeds which will enable us to respond to customer 
and consumer needs through improved capability to 
produce different pack sizes. 

We place significant emphasis on developing our 
relationship with PepsiCo and other partners, which 
includes maintaining an appropriate level of 
communication between the businesses to discuss 
strategy and manage operational delivery. The Pepsi 
and 7UP bottling agreement for Ireland was recently 
renewed for ten years which further strengthens our 
long term relationship with PepsiCo.

strategic report our risks continued

PRINCIPAL 
RISK

International 
expansion

RISK

MITIGATION

As we continue to grow our International business it is 
important that we have the appropriate governance, 
systems and processes in place as well as the ability to 
monitor and respond to geo-political issues and local 
regulatory matters. There is a risk that our plan to grow our 
International business is limited by global volatility, the risks 
associated with start-up profitability and regulations. 

We carry out extensive due diligence prior to entering 
into a new market. We closely monitor market and 
country information provided by our partners and 
business units. Our current geographic spread means 
that currently our exposure to emerging markets whilst 
growing is relatively limited and our international 
strategy which uses a mixture of ‘asset light’ franchise 
and business acquisitions also reduces our exposure to 
this risk.

Our active risk management strategy includes close 
monitoring of market conditions and where appropriate 
hedging our contractual positions on certain 
commodities.

We have robust supplier strategy, selection, monitoring 
and management processes and we seek to maintain 
multiple sources of supply for our products wherever 
possible. 

Safety at our sites is at the heart of what we do and we 
have externally certified management systems across 
the supply chain to support the management of health 
and safety. Additionally we review and manage the 
resilience of our sites to significant events and put 
protection in place where practical and beneficial to the 
business to do so.

We have robust quality and supplier control measures 
and processes in place to maintain the high quality of 
our products supplied at all times.

Our regulatory and legal teams monitor and ensure 
compliance with all relevant legislation and regulations.

We work closely with our external advisors and the 
regulators, government bodies and trade associations 
regarding current and future legislation which would 
impact upon the business.

We have externally certified management systems 
across the supply chain to support the management of 
health, safety and environment.

We provide training for employees on the Britvic code 
of conduct and specific areas such as competition and 
anti-bribery laws, health and safety and environment. 

The management of our data centre has been 
outsourced to a professional provider with robust 
disaster recovery plans which are tested every year.

We are increasing focus on improving information 
security policies and creating awareness of cyber risks 
across the business in line with the UK Government’s 
guidance.

We monitor exchange rates and interest rates and have 
active risk management and hedging strategies in place 
to manage exchange and interest fluctuations.
We work with the Trustees of the pension fund to agree 
future investment and funding strategies.

Supply chain

Our business depends on purchasing a wide variety of 
products, efficient manufacturing and distribution 
processes. 

There is a risk that we are not able to source the 
products and/or that the cost of our products is 
significantly affected by commodity price movements 
and environmental factors. Additionally our supply chain 
network is exposed to potentially adverse events such as 
environmental or industrial accidents, either at one of our 
sites or that of a key supplier.

Safe and high 
quality products

Legal and 
regulatory

Our products are of a very high quality and are not high risk 
products for causing harm to our consumers. However there 
is a risk that a faulty or contaminated product, either through 
malicious contamination, human error or equipment failure, is 
supplied to the market.

Britvic is subject to a wide range of legislation, regulation, 
guidance and codes of practice in areas such as 
composition, labelling, packaging, marketing claims, 
advertising, safety, environment, competition, tax and 
employee health and safety. Failure to comply with such 
requirements could have a significant impact on our 
reputation and/or incur financial penalties. Additionally new 
or amended requirements could have an impact on our 
cost of doing business.

Systems and 
information

Treasury and 
pension

Our operations are increasingly dependent on IT systems 
and management information. We interact electronically 
with customers, suppliers and consumers and our supply 
chain operations are dependent on reliable IT systems and 
infrastructure. Disruption to our IT systems could have a 
significant impact on our sales, cash flows and profits. 
Additionally and in common with many businesses, there is 
a risk around cyber security that could lead to the 
unauthorised access to, or loss of sensitive information. 

Britvic is exposed to a variety of external financial risks in 
relation to treasury and pension. Changes to exchange 
rates and interest rates can have an impact on business 
results and the cost of interest on our debt. 
Additionally the GB business has a defined benefit pension 
plan which whilst closed to new employees and future 
accruals is exposed to movements in interest rates, values 
of assets and increased life expectancy.

The Strategic Report was approved by the board of directors  
on 24 November 2015 and signed on its behalf by: 

Simon Litherland Chief Executive Officer

29 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report 
 
32   Corporate governance report
34   Board of directors
43   Audit Committee
46   Nomination Committee
48   Remuneration Committee
48   Directors’ remuneration report 
53   Annual report on remuneration
70   Directors’ report
73   Statement of directors’ responsibilities

30   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

31 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governancegovernancer

corporate 
governance 
report

Dear Shareholder,
As I mentioned in my Chairman’s 
statement earlier in this report, this has 
been another year of significant 
activity under the second full year of 
leadership of Simon Litherland, our 
Chief Executive Officer. The board has 
been busy supporting the business in 
the execution of the strategy launched 
in 2013, including the pursuit of our 
international expansion plan, with the 
successful acquisition of Empresa 
Brasileira de Bebidas e Ailmentos SA 
(Ebba), a Brazilian soft drinks 
company, which completed on 30 
September 2015.

32   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

This support also includes ensuring good governance, 
managing risk and adding value to our business. As such, 
the board continues to be committed to high standards  
of corporate governance and supports the principles laid 
down in the UK Corporate Governance Code published in 
September 2012 by the Financial Reporting Council (‘the 
Code’). The Corporate Governance Report which follows 
sets out the activities of the board and its committees and 
how we conduct our operations in line with the Code’s 
provisions and other accepted principles of good corporate 
governance. The application by the company of the 2014 
Code will be reported on for the financial period ending  
2 October 2016.

Changes to board composition
As part of our previously reported succession planning, we 
welcomed John Daly as an Independent Non-Executive Director 
to the board with effect from the conclusion of the company’s 
Annual General Meeting on 27 January 2015. John is currently  
a Non-Executive Director of Wolseley plc, a position he has held 
since May 2014, and of G4S plc following his appointment on  
5 June 2015. John Daly has extensive international experience, 
combined with a deep understanding of global leadership in a 
number of sectors, and is well placed to add value to Britvic.

John Gibney, Chief Financial Officer, announced his intention  
to retire on 20 May 2015. The board further announced the 
appointment of Mathew Dunn as Chief Financial Officer on  
30 July 2015. Mathew joined the company on 28 September 2015 
and, following a period of overlap to ensure a smooth transition, 
will succeed John Gibney as CFO following the announcement  
of the company’s preliminary results on 25 November 2015. 

Mathew was formerly the CFO of South African Breweries Ltd,  
a division of SABMiller plc in South Africa, where he was based 
since 2014. He first joined SABMiller plc in 2002 where he held 
various financial planning and management positions, as well  
as leadership positions, and he brings significant experience in  
the international beverage sector and expertise in operational 
leadership to the board. This will be invaluable as we continue  
to execute our strategy to pursue the expansion of our brands 
globally. Following his appointment to the board on 25 November 
2015, he will stand for election at the AGM on 27 January 2016.

The board would like to thank John for his significant contribution 
and support to the company during his ten years as a director  
of the company. He played a crucial role in the flotation of the 
business in 2005, has successfully overseen the acquisitions  
we have made to date, and helped to create the strong balance 
sheet we enjoy today. I am pleased that John will remain with the 
company until his retirement in April 2016; he will not be standing 
for re-election at the AGM and, consequently, he will formally step 
down as a director of the company from that date.

Silvia Lagnado, a Non-Executive Director of the company since  
2 June 2014, stepped down from the board on 31 July 2015 
following her appointment as Global Chief Marketing Officer of 
McDonald’s Corp and her associated relocation to the U.S. The 
board would also like to thank Silvia for her valuable contribution 
to the company during her relatively short tenure.

governancegovernance corporate governance report continued

Bob Ivell, Senior Independent Director (SID) and Chairman of the 
Remuneration Committee, reaches his nine year tenure as a director 
since his first election by shareholders in 2007, but will remain on the 
board until it is satisfied that it has identified a suitable successor to 
replace him. Meanwhile, John Daly will succeed Bob as SID and 
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee. 

Your board is committed to remaining effective and recognises  
that to do so it must ensure that it has the right balance of skills, 
independence and knowledge of the company to enable it to 
discharge its duties and responsibilities. Further details on the 
board’s succession planning activities, and the steps it is taking  
to develop its policy on diversity are discussed in my Nomination 
Committee Report on pages 46 to 47.

 Details of the directors’ biographies are set out on pages 34 and 35.

Board evaluation 
Evidence of the impact made by refreshing the skills of the board 
and its committees can been seen in the outputs of this year’s board 
evaluation, details of which are summarised on pages 41 to 42.

Fair, balanced and understandable
During the year the board reviewed the requirement for directors to 
make a statement that they consider the annual report and financial 
statements, taken as a whole, to be fair, balanced and understandable. 
As part of this review, we received an early draft of the annual report 
to have enough time to review and comment. The Audit Committee 
met to consider the criteria for a fair, balanced and understandable 
annual report and to review the processes underpinning the 
compilation and assurance of the report, in relation to the financial 
and non-financial information. The board then considered the annual 
report as a whole being mindful of the new UK reporting requirements 
to ensure consistency between the narrative sections and the 
financial statements.

 The board’s statement on the report is outlined on page 73. 

Gerald Corbett 
Chairman

24 November 2015 

33 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governancegovernance corporate governance report continued

Gerald Corbett DL
Chairman and Chairman of 
the Nomination Committee 
Appointed in 2005

Simon Litherland
Chief Executive Officer 
Appointed in 2013

John Gibney
Chief Financial Officer  
Appointed in 2005

Over a long business career, 
Gerald has been a director of  
12 public companies, six of which 
he has chaired. His most recent 
roles were as Chairman of 
Moneysupermarket.com Group plc 
between 2007 and 2014 and of 
SSL International plc between 
2005 and 2010. 

His executive career included 
Group Finance Director roles  
with Redland plc and Grand 
Metropolitan plc, and he was 
Chief Executive Officer of  
Railtrack between 1997  
and 2000.

Committee membership:  
Nomination (Chairman), Disclosure, 
Remuneration
Other appointments:  
Betfair Group plc (Chairman), 
Numis Corporation plc (Chairman)  

Simon is responsible for overseeing 
the delivery of the company’s 
business strategy. He joined Britvic 
in September 2011, initially as 
Managing Director of Britvic GB.
Prior to this, he had a career 
spanning 20 years with Diageo. 
His last role was MD of Diageo GB, 
having previously run Diageo’s 
businesses in South Africa, Ireland 
and Central and Eastern Europe. 
During his time at Diageo, Simon 
was responsible for an extensive 

portfolio of brands including 
Guinness, Johnnie Walker, Baileys, 
Smirnoff and Captain Morgan. In 
his earlier career he held a variety 
of International Finance Director 
roles in Diageo, IDV and Grand 
Metropolitan.
Simon qualified as a Chartered 
Accountant with Deloitte in  
South Africa having gained a 
business degree at the University 
of Cape Town.

Committee membership:  
Disclosure, Executive Team
Other appointments:  
Incorporated Society of British 
Advertisers (ISBA),  
(President and Chairman of ISBA 
Council)

John Gibney was appointed 
Finance Director in 1999 and is 
responsible for finance, legal, estates, 
risk management, quality, safety 
and environment and procurement. 
He is also Chairman of Counterpoint, 
the Britvic licensed wholesale 
business for Ireland.
Prior to joining Britvic, he was 
Senior Corporate Finance & 

Planning Manager for Bass plc, 
and prior to that role, Finance 
Director and subsequently Deputy 
Managing Director of Gala Clubs.
John steps down from the board at 
the AGM on 27 January 2016 after 
16 years with the company. 

Committee membership:  
Disclosure, Executive Team
Other appointments:  
Interactive Screen Media Limited 
(Joint Venture) (resigned on  
10 November 2015)

Mathew Dunn
Chief Financial Officer 
Appointed on 25 November 2015

Mathew Dunn joined the business 
on 28 September 2015 and will 
succeed John Gibney as Chief 
Financial Officer following the 
announcement of our Preliminary 
Results on 25 November 2015. 
Prior to joining Britvic, Mathew 
was the Chief Financial Officer 

of South African Breweries 
Ltd, a division of SABMiller plc 
in South Africa, where he was 
based since 2014. He first joined 
SABMiller plc in 2002 where he 
held various financial planning and 
management, as well as leadership 
positions. 

Committee membership:  
Disclosure, Executive Team
Other appointments:  
None

34   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

governance corporate governance report continued

From left to right:  
Ben Gordon 
Mathew Dunn 
Joanne Averiss 
Simon Litherland 
Gerald Corbett 
Bob Ivell  
John Daly 
Ian McHoul

Ian McHoul 
Independent Non-Executive 
Director and Chairman of the 
Audit Committee  
Appointed in 2014

Joanne Averiss 
Non-Executive Director 
Appointed in 2005

John Daly
Independent Non-Executive 
Director  
Appointed in 2015

Ian was Finance Director of 
Scottish & Newcastle plc and 
Finance and Strategy Director of 
the Inntrepreneur Pub Group Ltd 
and spent ten years with Foster’s 
Brewing Group in a variety of roles. 
He was a Non-Executive Director 
and Chairman of the Audit 

Joanne is the Pepsi Group 
Nominee Director. She has been a 
member of the Pepsi Group legal 
department since 1990, holding a 
series of positions in the UK and 
the US and is currently Senior Vice 
President Law, General Counsel, 
Europe and Sub Saharan Africa 

Committee of Premier Foods plc 
between 2004 and 2013, the last 
year of which he was also the 
Senior Independent Director. 

Committee membership:  
Audit (Chairman), Nomination, 
Remuneration
Other appointments:  
Amec Foster Wheeler plc 
(Chief Financial Officer) 

with legal responsibility for all of the 
Pepsi Group’s business units within 
Europe and Sub Saharan Africa. 

Committee membership:  
None
Other appointments:  
The Mesen Educational Trust 
(Trustee and Chair) 

John has held various executive 
leadership positions over the 
course of 20 years at British 
American Tobacco plc (BAT). His 
most recent positions at BAT were 
Chief Operating Officer (from 2010 
to 2014) and Regional Director for 
Asia Pacific, based in Hong Kong 
(from 2004 to 2010). John remains 
a Director of Reynolds American 
Inc., a US public company owned 

42% by BAT. Prior to his time with 
BAT, John held various sales and 
marketing positions with Johnson 
& Johnson, Bristol-Myers Squibb, 
Pennwalt Corporation and 
Schering-Plough.
John will succeed Bob Ivell as 
Senior Independent Director and 
Remuneration Committee Chairman 
from the conclusion of the AGM.

Committee membership:
Audit, Nomination, Remuneration
Other appointments:
Wolseley plc,  
G4S plc

Bob Ivell 
Senior Independent Director 
and Chairman of the 
Remuneration Committee 
Appointed in 2005

Ben Gordon
Independent Non-Executive 
Director  
Appointed in 2008

Bob has over 30 years’ experience 
in the food and beverage industry, 
holding executive roles with Regent 
Inns plc, Scottish & Newcastle plc 
and Whitbread plc. He was 
previously chairman of David Lloyd 
Leisure Limited, Park Resorts 
Group Limited, Next Generation 
Clubs Pacific and a Non-Executive 
Director of The Restaurant Group plc. 

Ben was the former Chief Executive 
of Mothercare plc and former 
Senior Vice President and 
Managing Director of Disney Store, 
Europe and Asia Pacific. He has 
also held senior management 
positions with WHSmith group  
in the UK and the USA and  

Bob steps down as Senior 
Independent Director and 
Remuneration Committee 
Chairman, handing over to  
John Daly, from the conclusion  
of the AGM but will remain on  
the board. 

L’Oreal S.A. in France and in the 
UK. Ben has an MBA from INSEAD 
and is a Member of the Institution 
of Civil Engineers.

Committee membership:  
Remuneration (Chairman),  
Audit, Nomination 
Other appointments:  
Mitchells & Butlers plc  
(Non-Executive Chairman),  
Carpetright plc  
(Non-Executive Chairman),  
Charles Wells Limited  
(Non-Executive Director)

Committee membership:  
Audit, Nomination, Remuneration
Other appointments:  
St. Ives plc (Non-Executive Director), 
Powerleague Group Limited 
(Chairman),  
Canal & River Trust (Trustee) 

35 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governancegovernance corporate governance report continued

Compliance with the UK Corporate 
Governance Code
The board supports the principles laid down in the UK Corporate 
Governance Code as issued by the Financial Reporting Council in 
September 2012, which applies to financial years beginning on or 
after 1 October 2012 (‘the Code’) (available at www.frc.org.uk). This 
report describes how the principles of the Code are applied and 
reports on the company’s compliance with the Code’s provisions.  
In September 2014, a revised UK Corporate Governance Code was 
published, which will apply to the company for the period ending 2 
October 2016 and the company will report on its application in 2016. 

The board considers that it has been in compliance with the provisions 
of the Code throughout the period ended 27 September 2015.  

2015 board programme
The board provides strong and effective leadership within a framework 
of prudent and effective controls, and in accordance with the Code 
provisions there is a formal schedule of matters specifically reserved 
for board decision which defines the board from sub-committees 
and management. This clear definition not only complements and 
strengthens the company’s decisions, but builds the foundations of 
a solid business. Although there is a standard agenda of items, 
these are regularly reviewed to ensure that the board provides 
continual effective leadership and drive towards the company’s 
strategic aims.

During the year, consideration and decisions taken by the board 
have included:

• The Ebba acquisition in Brazil – this was a major transaction 

involving the expansion of the group’s activities into a new market 
with the acquisition of Empresa Brasileira de Bebidas e Alimentos 
S.A. (Ebba), which successfully completed on 30 September 
2015. The inclusion of this new venture in the growth strategy of 
the company is another hugely significant milestone in the 
development of Britvic and is explained further on page 15

• Supply Chain Investment – the desire to improve operating margin 
has involved significant investment in existing production lines and 
the installation of a new flexible high speed PET bottling line in Leeds 
• Matters Reserved for the Board and Statement of Authorities –the 
General Counsel was tasked with ensuring that our governance 
framework was fit for purpose particularly given our international 
ambitions and resulting change in our operating structure. As a 
result, and after wide consultation with senior stakeholders, the 
Matters Reserved for Decision by the Board and Statement  
of Authorities were reviewed and adopted in line with our  
‘Be Disciplined’ value – we are disciplined in our adherence  
to process, governance and management of risk

• Succession Planning – subsequent to the announcement in May 
of John Gibney’s (Chief Financial Officer) retirement in April 2016, 
the Nomination Committee recommended to the board, which it 
subsequently approved, the appointment of Mathew Dunn as the 
new Chief Financial Officer and an executive member of the board 
with effect from 25 November 2015, together with the appointments 
of João Caetano de Mello Neto (Managing Director of Ebba) 
following the completion of the acquisition of Ebba on 30 September 
2015, and Hessel de Jong (who joined the company on 28 
September 2015 and succeeded Simon Stewart as International 
Marketing Director with effect from 30 October 2015) as members 
of the Executive Team.

Matters which the board consider suitable for delegation are 
contained in the terms of reference of its committees which, in line 
with the Code provisions, can be found on the company’s website 
(http://www.britvic.com/investor-centre/corporate-governance). 

36   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

Risk 
management 
and internal 
controls

Structure  
and capital

Strategy and 
management

Communication

Board 
membership

Corporate 
governance 
matters

Board responsibility

Contracts 
(including  
bank facilities, 
guarantees and 
indemnities)

Remuneration

Statement of 
authorities

Relationships 
with 
shareholders

Financial 
reporting  
and controls

Policies

Board meetings
The board met ten times during the year in accordance with its 
scheduled meeting calendar, excluding adhoc conference calls and 
committee meetings to approve the financial results. An additional 
five meetings were also convened to deal with key matters requiring 
the board’s attention and major projects, primarily related to the 
acquisition of Ebba. The board meetings were held at the head 
office in Hemel Hempstead, except two meetings which were held 
off-site in London and Miami. The attendance by each board 
member is shown on page 42. 

Executive management level committees

Executive 
Team

Sustainable 
Business 
Committee

Incident  
Management 
Committee*

Health Safety  
& Wellbeing 
Committee

Board

Architecture 
Group*

Treasury 
Committee

Share 
Allotment 
Committee*

Pensions 
Committee

*Meet as and when required

 
 
 
governance corporate governance report continued

Governance framework 

Shareholders

2,650 shareholders  
as at 27 September 2015

Board

Chairman 

Executive Directors 

Non-Executive Directors

Nomination 
Committee

Audit  
Committee

Remuneration 
Committee

Disclosure 
Committee

Chairman 
4 Non-Executive Directors

Primary responsibility for 
succession planning,  
board/director selection and 
board composition

4 Non-Executive Directors

4 Non-Executive Directors

Provides oversight and 
governance over the group’s 
annual reporting, internal 
controls, risk management 
and relationship with external 
auditors

Agrees remuneration policy 
and sets individual 
compensation levels for 
directors and senior 
management

Chairman  
CEO and CFO 
IR Director 
Director of Corporate Affairs 
Company Secretary

Provides assistance with 
disclosures required under 
the Listing Rules and to help 
ensure that disclosure 
controls and procedures are 
properly implemented

Committee Report pages  
46 to 47

Committee Report pages  
43 to 45

Committee and Directors’ 
Remuneration Reports pages  
48 to 49

Committee established on 
23 June 2015

The board
The board of directors currently has eight members, comprising the 
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, four 
independent Non-Executive Directors and the PepsiCo-nominated 
Non-Executive Director. At all times there has been at least half of 
the board, excluding the Chairman, who are independent Non-
Executive Directors, in compliance with the Code.

The board recognises that with the appointment of Mathew Dunn on 
25 November 2015 this will result in an increase in the number of 
Executive Directors on the board to three for the short period of time 
between Mathew’s appointment and John Gibney retiring from the 
board at the AGM on 27 January 2016, thereby increasing the ratio 
of independent to non-independent directors to 4:4. 

Further details on the company’s ongoing recruitment plans are set 
out in the Nomination Committee Report on page 47. 

The directors
The biographical details of the board members are set out on pages 
34 and 35. All of the directors bring strong judgement to the board’s 
deliberations. They have all occupied, or occupy, senior positions in 
UK and/or international companies (including listed companies) and 
have substantial experience across a range of businesses. Other 
than their fees, which are disclosed on page 56, the Non-Executive 
Directors received no remuneration from the company during the 
year. They also do not participate in any of the group’s pension 
schemes or in any of the group’s bonus, share option or other 
incentive schemes. 

Re-election of directors
The company’s articles of association provide that all directors will 
stand for re-election at least every three years but in order to comply 
with the Code, all of the directors submit themselves for re-election  
(or election following first appointment) at each annual general meeting. 

37 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governance  
governance corporate governance report continued

The different roles of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer are 
acknowledged. A responsibility statement for each of those roles 
has been agreed with the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, 
respectively, and adopted by the board. 

During the year the Chairman met with the Non-Executive Directors 
without the Executive Directors present to evaluate their 
performance and the Non-Executive Directors met without the 
Chairman present, to evaluate his performance. 

Executive team 
The board has delegated appropriate responsibilities to the 
executive team, the membership of which is shown below. The 
executive team meets 11 times a year and is responsible for the 
day-to-day running of the business, carrying out agreed strategy 
and implementing specific board decisions relating to the operation 
of the group.

In addition, there are a number of committees which meet to 
consider various issues involved in the day-to-day management  
of Britvic and matters for recommendation to the board and its 
committees. Details of these committees are set out on page 36. 

Simon Litherland 
Chief Executive Officer

See full biography on page 34.

John Gibney 
Chief Financial Officer  
(until 25 November 2015)

See full biography on page 34.

Mathew Dunn 
Chief Financial Officer  
(from 25 November 2015)

See full biography on page 34.

The role of the board
The board is responsible for the long-term success of the company, 
corporate governance, strategy, risk management and financial 
performance. The board normally meets ten times each financial 
year and has a formal schedule of matters reserved to it for decision 
making, including responsibility for the overall management and 
performance of the group, and the approval of its long-term 
objectives and commercial strategy, approval of annual and interim 
results, annual budgets, material acquisitions and disposals, material 
agreements and major capital commitments, approval of treasury 
policies, and assessment of its going concern position. 

Board members are given appropriate documentation in advance of 
each board or committee meeting. This includes a detailed report on 
current trading and comprehensive briefing papers on matters 
where the board will be required to reach a decision. Senior 
executives below board level attend board meetings where 
appropriate to present business updates. 

There is an established procedure for the preparation and review by 
the board of the annual budget. The business reports monthly on its 
performance against its agreed budget. The board receives a 
monthly update on performance and reviews any significant 
variances at each of its meetings. All major investment decisions are 
usually subject to post-completion reviews. At least one of the 
board’s regular meetings every year is devoted to reviewing and 
agreeing the company’s long-term strategy.

Board committees 
The board is assisted by four board committees (as shown on the 
governance framework diagram on page 37) to which it delegates 
specific responsibilities. Each committee has full terms of reference 
that have been approved by the board and which can be found on 
our website at http://www.britvic.com/investor-centre/corporate-
governance.

Company Secretary
The Company Secretary maintains a record of attendance at board 
meetings and committee meetings, further details of which are set 
out on page 42 and within the respective committee reports 
between pages 43 and 48. The Company Secretary’s other 
responsibilities include ensuring good information flows to the board 
and its committees and between senior management and the 
Non-Executive Directors, advising the board on all legal and 
corporate governance matters, and assisting the Chairman in 
ensuring that the directors have suitably tailored and detailed 
induction and ongoing professional development programmes. 

The role of the Chairman and Chief 
Executive Officer
The Chairman is primarily responsible for the workings of the board, 
to ensure that its strategic and supervisory role is achieved and for 
ensuring effective communication with shareholders. 

The Chairman works closely with the Chief Executive Officer to 
ensure that the strategies and actions agreed by the board are 
implemented and provides support and appropriate advice to the 
Chief Executive Officer. The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for 
the day-to-day management of the business, developing the group’s 
strategic direction for consideration and approval by the board, and 
implementing agreed strategy. He is supported by the other 
members of his executive team.

38   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

governance corporate governance report continued

Matt Barwell 
Chief Marketing Officer

Matt is responsible for all aspects of Britvic’s 
global brand strategy and execution, 
innovation, corporate affairs and the 
company’s sustainability agenda. He joined 
Britvic from Diageo in 2014 where he held a 
number of senior positions over 15 years 
including Marketing and Innovation Director 
for Diageo Africa and later, Diageo Europe. 
Matt started his career with Mars where he 
worked for ten years in both the confectionary 
and pet food businesses. Matt is Chairman of 
the Advertising Association’s Front Foot group 
and is a Fellow of The Marketing Society.

Kevin Donnelly
Country Director, Britvic Ireland 

Kevin joined Britvic Ireland in September 2008 
as Marketing Director and was appointed 
Country Director in June 2013. He has over 
25 years’ experience in sales, marketing and 
general management in FMCG companies, 
including Unilever and Dairygold. Kevin holds 
a First Class Honours Degree in Marketing 
from Trinity College Dublin and a Post 
Graduate Diploma in Digital Marketing.

Hessel de Jong  
International Managing Director 
(appointed on 28 September 2015 as 
successor to Simon Stewart who resigned  
on 30 October 2015)

Hessel de Jong joins Britvic with over 20 years 
of management experience in the FMCG 
industry. Prior to joining Britvic, Hessel worked 
as an advisor to a number of private equity 
companies, including Blackstone and Bencis 
Capital Partners. From 2008 through 2014, 
he was Managing Director of the Dutch and 
Benelux operations of the Coca Cola 
Company. Before 2008, Hessel held various 
regional and global leadership positions at 
Heineken and SCA Group in Europe and 
Asia. Hessel is based in Amsterdam and 
holds a Master of Business Administration 
from INSEAD and a Bachelor of Business 
Administration from Nyenrode University.

João Caetano de Mello Neto 
Managing Director, Ebba Brazil
(appointed on 30 September 2015)

João Caetano de Mello Neto joined Britvic 
following the acquisition of Ebba on 30 
September 2015. He brings with him over 30 
years of executive management experience in 
the consumer goods industry. Previously, 
João Caetano worked for Cia Müller de 
Bebidas (Caninha 51) where he spent 14 years 
and acted as Chief Executive Officer for seven. 
He then worked for J. Macedo for seven 
years as Chief Executive Officer of Hidracor 
before moving to Ebba.

Doug Frost 
Plc HR Director 

Doug Frost was appointed Human Resources 
Director in 2004. He has since also assumed 
responsibility for IT and the Programme 
Management Office. Doug previously worked 
for 15 years with Mars Incorporated in 
positions in manufacturing, sales and human 
resources. He started his career in the UK, 
then worked across several continental 
European markets and latterly spent several 
years in Brazil.

Paul Graham 
GB Managing Director

Paul was appointed GB Managing Director on 
13 April 2015, having joined the business in 
September 2012 as GB General Manager. 
Before joining Britvic, he worked in a range of 
commercial roles for companies including 
Mars Confectionery and United Biscuits. Paul 
has a BSc in Management Sciences from the 
University of Manchester and is a member of 
the Executive Council of The British Soft 
Drinks Association.

Clare Thomas
General Counsel and Company Secretary

Clare Thomas joined the group as General 
Counsel and Company Secretary in 
September 2013 and has responsibility for the 
legal, audit and risk, company secretarial, 
estates and plc quality, safety and environment 
teams. Clare has a corporate and commercial 
legal background, and prior to joining Britvic 
spent 15 years as a corporate/M&A lawyer at 
law firm Addleshaw Goddard LLP, including six 
years as a partner with a particular focus on 
FMCG clients.

Jean-Luc Tivolle
Managing Director, Britvic France

Jean-Luc Tivolle was appointed Managing 
Director of Britvic France in 2010, after 14 
years as Vice-Chairman of Fruité Entreprises 
SAS, which was acquired by Britvic at that 
time. Prior to this, he held senior roles in Tetra 
Pak and a variety of positions at Chocolat 
Poulain (Cadbury Schweppes Group).

39 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governancegovernance corporate governance report continued

Senior Independent Director
The Senior Independent Director is available to shareholders if they have 
concerns which are not resolved through the normal channels of Chairman, 
Chief Executive Officer or Chief Financial Officer, or for which such 
contact is inappropriate. 

Tenure of Non-Executive Directors
The Code provides that the length of tenure is a factor to consider when 
determining the independence of Non-Executive Directors. The table 
below shows the tenure and independence of each of our Non-Executive 
Directors since the date of their first election by shareholders.

Date first 
elected by 
shareholders

Years from  
first election  
to 2016 AGM

Considered 
to be  
independent by 
the board

Gerald Corbett

January 2007

Joanne Averiss

January 2007

John Daly

-

Ben Gordon

January 2009

Bob Ivell

January 2007

Ian McHoul

January 2015

9

9

-

7

9

1

1

No2

Yes3

Yes2

Yes2

Yes2

Notes:
1.   The company considers that, on appointment, the Chairman was independent 

for the purposes of provision A.3.1 of the Code. 

2.   Joanne Averiss is Senior Vice President Law, General Counsel, Europe of Pepsico 
and is the PepsiCo Non-Executive Director. Accordingly, she is not considered to 
be independent by the board. In addition to her fiduciary obligations to act in the 
best interests of the company, Joanne Averiss is required under her letter of 
appointment to discharge her duties in the interests of the company 
notwithstanding her connection with PepsiCo. With the exception of Joanne 
Averiss the Non-Executive Directors are all independent of management and free 
from any business or other relationship, including those relationships and 
circumstances referred to in provision B.1.1 of the Code that could materially 
interfere with the exercise of independent and objective judgement. 
3.  Appointed on 27 January 2015 and will stand for election at the AGM.

Service contracts and letters of appointment
Details of the Executive Directors’ service contracts and the Chairman’s 
and the Non-Executive Directors’ letters of appointment are set out 
in the Directors’ Remuneration Report on page 62. The letters of 
appointment of Gerald Corbett, Joanne Averiss and Bob Ivell run to 
14 December 2017. The letters of appointment of Gerald Corbett, 
Joanne Averiss and Bob Ivell run to 14 December 2017. The letters 
of appointment of Ian McHoul, Ben Gordon and John Daly run to  
10 March 2017, 14 April 2017 and 27 January 2018, respectively. 
These documents are available for inspection at the registered office 
of the company during normal business hours and at the AGM.

Conflicts of interest 
The company’s articles of association allow the board to authorise 
potential conflicts of interest that may arise and to impose limits or 
conditions, as appropriate. Any decision of the board to authorise  
a conflict of interest, whether matter-specific or situational, is only 
effective if it is agreed without the participation of the conflicted 
director(s), and in making such a decision, as always, the directors 
must act in a way they consider in good faith will be most likely to 
promote the success of the company. The company has an 
established procedure whereby actual or potential conflicts of interest 
are reviewed annually and for the appropriate authorisation to be 
sought prior to the appointment of any new director or if a new 
conflict arises. The board previously authorised, as a potential conflict 
of interest, the Chairman’s appointment as a member of the Advisory 
Committee of Spencer Stuart, with whom the Nomination Committee, 

40   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

engaged again during the year for the purpose of recruiting John Daly 
and, more recently, to assist with the search for a successor to John 
Gibney, (Chief Financial Officer), Silva Lagnado (Non-Executive 
Director) and Hessel De Jong (International Marketing Director). 

Induction and development
The Chairman is responsible for preparing and co-ordinating an 
induction programme for newly appointed directors, including 
presentations from senior management on different aspects of the 
business, as well as guidance on their duties, responsibilities and 
liabilities as a director of a listed company. Business familiarisation 
involves directors visiting sites in the UK, Ireland and France. The 
Non-Executive Directors are encouraged to visit group manufacturing 
sites to enable them to gain a greater understanding of the group’s 
activities and to meet senior managers throughout the business. Every 
director has access to appropriate training as required subsequent to 
his appointment and is encouraged to develop his understanding of the 
company. To strengthen the directors’ knowledge and understanding of 
the company, board meetings regularly include updates and briefings 
on specific areas of the company’s activities and board meetings, where 
possible, are held offsite at other Britvic sites.

Following John Daly’s appointment to the board, the Company 
Secretary arranged an appropriate induction programme. The 
programme was tailored based on his experience and background, 
and the requirements of his role. Acknowledging John’s in-depth 
understanding of the UK company listing regime, his induction 
focused primarily on his role as a director and the role of the board  
in general. His induction has included one-to-one meetings with 
individual members of the Executive Team and with the plc Finance 
and Investor Relation Director as well as trade visits.

Independent advice
The board has approved a procedure for directors to take independent 
professional advice at the company’s expense if necessary. No such 
advice was sought by any director during the year. In addition, the 
directors have direct access to the advice and services of the 
Company Secretary.

Indemnification of directors
In addition to the indemnity granted by the company to directors in 
respect of their liabilities incurred as a result of their office in accordance 
with our articles of association, we maintain a directors’ and officers’ 
liability insurance policy throughout the year. Neither our indemnity 
nor the insurance provides cover in the event that a director has 
proven to have acted dishonestly or fraudulently. 

Risk management and internal control 
The board has overall responsibility for the group’s system of internal 
control and risk management and for reviewing its effectiveness. In 
discharging that responsibility, the board confirms that it has established 
the procedures necessary to apply the Code, including clear operating 
procedures, lines of responsibility and delegated authority. These 
procedures have been in place since the company listed and are 
regularly reviewed by the board. 

Business performance is managed closely and the board and the 
executive team have established processes, as part of the normal 
good management of the business, to monitor:
• Strategic plan achievement, through a regular review of progress 

towards strategic objectives

• Monitoring and maintenance of insurance cover to insure all risk 

areas of the group

governance corporate governance report continued

• Financial performance, within a comprehensive financial planning 
and accounting framework, including budgeting and forecasting, 
financial reporting, analysing variances against plan and taking 
appropriate management action

• Capital investment and asset management performance, with 
detailed appraisal, authorisation and post investment reviews

• The principal risks facing the business ensuring that the significant 

risks faced by the group are being identified, evaluated and 
appropriately managed, giving consideration to the balance  
of risk, cost and opportunity. 

The board is supported by the Audit Committee in reviewing the 
effectiveness of the group’s risk process and internal control 
systems. The system of internal control is designed to manage, 
rather than eliminate, the risk of failure to achieve business 

objectives and it must be recognised that it can only provide 
reasonable and not absolute assurance against material 
misstatement or loss.

Management, with the assistance of the finance function, is 
responsible for the appropriate maintenance of financial records  
and processes. This ensures that all financial information is relevant, 
reliable, in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations, and 
distributed both internally and externally in a timely manner. A review 
of the consolidation and financial statements is completed by 
management to ensure that the financial position and results of the 
group are appropriately recorded, circulated to members of the 
board and published where appropriate. All financial information 
published by the group is subject to the approval of the board,  
on the recommendation of the Audit Committee.

Board performance evaluation

2015 evaluation

Recommendations

Actions agreed for 2015-16

Continue to focus on shorter-term succession 
planning and for a successor to the Chairman.

As indicated above, recruitment is ongoing to find successors  
for Bob Ivell and Silvia Lagnado. Similarly, the search for a suitable 
successor to the Chairman will be undertaken during the next  
12 months. Meanwhile, the board has asked the Chairman to 
remain in office until such time as the new membership of the 
board is established to ensure that the board and its committees 
continue to have the right balance of skills, experience, 
independence and knowledge of the company to discharge  
their respective duties and responsibilities effectively.

Implement a deeper succession plan and focus 
on talent management.

The board evaluation identified that there needed to be a stronger 
focus on the pipeline of talent covering the most senior executive 
positions in the business.

Increase the board’s visibility to external 
investor concerns and updates.

Arrange for the board to receive a formal briefing from brokers  
at least once per year. In addition use the new board portal to 
ensure directors have access to the latest sector and company 
related broker notes.

Continue with opportunities for the  
Non-Executive Directors to visit other sites  
and to meet informally outside of board 
meetings.

Recent changes to the plc meeting calendar include the 
opportunity for up to two board meetings per year to be held 
away from the head office. Informal board dinners to be arranged 
to enable discussions outside of the board room. 

Focus on strategy and risk management.

In light of the increased governance focus on risk, the board’s 
standard business agenda will include increased focus on risk  
and additional exposure on key strategic initiatives.

2014 evaluation

Recommendations

Actions agreed and delivered in 2014-15

Continue to focus on succession planning  
for a successor to the Senior Independent 
Director and other key positions and on  
talent management development.

Opportunities to develop relationships amongst 
board members and Non-Executive Directors 
to spend more time in the business, including 
trade visits.

The board has given its approval for John Daly to succeed 
Bob Ivell as Senior Independent Director and Chairman of the 
Remuneration Committee. This will take effect from the AGM on 
27 January 2016. Bob Ivell will remain on the board whilst the 
search for suitable replacement Non-Executive Directors for both 
Bob and Silvia Lagnado continues. Silvia stepped down  
from the board on 31 July 2015 following her appointment as 
CMO of McDonalds and associated relocation to the USA.

Informal occasions when the board can be together without the 
management present were arranged as well as trade visits for  
the Non-Executive Directors.

Request for more updates on the board 
committee activities.

More time has been given on board agendas to update members 
of the board on the activities of the committees.

41 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governancegovernance corporate governance report continued

The board scheduled ten meetings during the year and an additional 
five meetings were convened to deal with specific matters which 
required the board’s attention between scheduled meetings. These 
primarily related to the acquisition of Ebba. Therefore, excluding ad 
hoc conference calls and committee meetings to approve the 
financial results, in total the board met 15 times during the year.

Shareholder engagement
Investor relations
The board is committed to maintaining good communications with 
shareholders. Senior executives, including the Chairman, Chief 
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, have regular dialogue 
with individual institutional shareholders in order to develop an 
understanding of their views which is then discussed with the board. 
Similarly, the Chairman of the Remuneration Committee engages, at 
appropriate times, with shareholders on matters relating to 
Remuneration Policy (for more details see page 49 of the Directors’ 
Remuneration Report). All directors are offered the opportunity to 
meet with major shareholders to listen to their views and, in addition 
to a monthly report prepared by the Chief Financial Officer, receive 
regular reports prepared by an independent capital markets advisory 
firm which provides comprehensive information relating to the 
company’s major shareholders.

Presentations are made to analysts, investors and prospective 
investors covering the annual and interim results and the company 
seeks to maintain a dialogue with the various bodies which monitor 
the company’s governance policies and procedures. The Strategic 
Report set out on pages 2 to 29 details the financial performance of 
the company as well as setting out the risks it faces. 

Private investors
We are keen to hear the views of our private shareholders and  
we encourage them to use our shareholder mailbox (investors@
britvic.com) for detailed inquiries and to access our website for our 
company reports and business information. The website also 
provides direct access to Shareview (www.Shareview.co.uk) which 
enables shareholders to manage their shareholding account online. 
Specific inquiries to the Company Secretary can be sent to the 
Secretariat mailbox (company.secretariat@britvic.com) or posted  
to the registered office.

At the AGM, the Chief Executive Officer gives a regular update on 
the positioning and outlook for the business. Shareholders are 
invited to ask questions formally during the meeting and to follow up 
these discussions with directors on a one-to-one basis afterwards. 
The chairmen of the board committees and the Senior Independent 
Director are present and available to respond to questions at the 
AGM. We look forward to welcoming all our shareholders to our 
2016 AGM in January and to updating them on our business 
developments.

Each year the performance of the board, its committees and directors 
is evaluated. As required by the Code, every third year the evaluation 
should be conducted by an external advisor. Following the externally 
facilitated evaluation in 2013, the board felt it was appropriate to 
conduct an internal board and committee review in 2015. 

The 2015 evaluation was led by the Chairman with the assistance  
of the Company Secretary. The appraisal questionnaires used in the 
process were wide-ranging and based on questions outlined in the 
Code, covering both the performance of the board and its committees, 
and that of the Chairman. The questions were designed to encourage 
broad discussions on the performance and effectiveness of the board 
and its procedures, as well as the effectiveness of the Chairman. 
This year’s questionnaires incorporated two case studies to obtain 
the board’s feedback on the two-day strategy event and on the 
acquisition of Ebba.

The appraisal output is used to identify strengths and development 
areas, and confirmed that the board and its committees were 
operating effectively. Individual performance was also appraised by 
the Chairman following a meeting with each of the other directors.

The findings were presented to the board and the Nomination 
Committee together with a proposed action plan. The balance 
between the board and its committees was felt to be appropriate 
and no changes in this area were identified outside of the rotation of 
directors agreed as part of the board’s ongoing succession planning. 

A table of actions arising from this and the prior year’s performance 
evaluation is set out on page 41 and progress against these actions 
will be monitored by the board throughout the year.

In light of the review, the board considers the performance of each 
director to be effective and has concluded that the board and its 
committees provide the leadership and control required. The board 
will continue to review its procedures, effectiveness and development 
in the financial year ahead, particularly in relation to succession 
planning and in considering the balance of skills and expertise 
needed to support the company’s strategy, giving due consideration 
to all aspects of diversity, including gender.

Attendance at meetings of the board  
The attendance of directors at board meetings during the year was 
as follows: 

Membership and 
attendance

Number of scheduled 
meetings 
attended/held

Number of other 
meetings
attended/held

Gerald Corbett

Simon Litherland

John Gibney

Joanne Averiss

John Daly1

Ben Gordon 

Bob Ivell

Ian McHoul

Silvia Lagnado2

10/10

10/10

10/10

10/10

6/7

10/10

9/10

9/10

9/9

5/5

5/5

5/5

3/5

1/2

3/5

4/5

4/5

3/5

Notes:
1.   Meetings attended by John Daly subsequent to his appointment on 27 January 2015.
2.   Meetings attended by Silvia Lagnado up until her date of resignation on 31 July 2015.

42   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

governance

audit 
committee

Ian McHoul 
Audit Committee Chairman
The committee’s role is to ensure 
appropriate oversight and review of 
the presentation and integrity of the 
financial reporting and statements, 
internal control and risk management, 
internal audit programmes, changes in 
regulatory requirements, and the 
independence and appointment of 
external auditors.

To enable the committee to discharge its responsibilities, 
discussions on a broad range of topics and reports were 
held with management, internal audit and the external 
auditors throughout the year. This provided us with 
insight into the progress towards the company’s 
strategic goals and the challenges and risks and how 
they are being managed.

These include considering the requirements of the 2014 
Corporate Governance Code and assessing the impact on 
our processes so that we are ready to report against the 
new code for our year ending 2 October 2016 and 
discussions over the timing and approach to the external 
audit tender. The most significant matters discussed over 
the course of the year are described in the pages that follow. 

The committee has an open dialogue throughout the year with the 
Director of Audit and Risk and the external auditors to raise 
challenges and questions to support understanding whilst sharing 
experience and an independent perspective.

Objective
The objective of the committee is to provide independent scrutiny of 
the group’s financial reporting, the internal control environment and 
processes in place to monitor this, the adequacy of the risk 
management framework and the activities of the external auditors.

Responsibilities
• Reviewing the financial results announcements and financial 
statements and any significant financial reporting issues and 
judgements which they may contain

• Advising the board on whether the annual report and accounts, 
taken as a whole, are fair, balanced and understandable and 
provide the information necessary for shareholders to assess the 
company’s performance, business model and strategy

• Ensuring compliance with applicable accounting standards and 

reviewing the appropriateness of accounting policies and 
practices in place

• Assessing the adequacy of the internal control environment and 
the processes in place to monitor this, including reviewing the 
activities and performance of the internal audit team

• Reviewing risk management processes and considering the 

adequacy of the actions being taken to identify risks and reduce 
the exposure of the group to those risks

• Overseeing the relationship with the external auditors, reviewing 
their activities and performance and advising the board on their 
appointment and remuneration

• Ensuring appropriate safeguards are in place for individuals to 

raise issues with the board where a breach of conduct or 
compliance, including any financial reporting irregularity, is suspected.

Membership and meetings

Membership and Attendance

Number of Meetings
Attended/Held

Ian McHoul (Chairman)

John Daly1 

Bob Ivell

Ben Gordon

3/3

1/2

3/3

3/3

Notes: 
1.   Meetings attended by John Daly subsequent to his appointment on 27 January 2015.

The committee comprises independent Non-Executive Directors, 
John Daly, Ben Gordon, Bob Ivell and myself as Chairman. The 
board is satisfied that I have recent and relevant financial experience 
as required by the Code. 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

43 

 governance financial statements other information strategic reportgovernance governance 
 
 
governance audit committee continued

The committee meets three times a year; in November and May to 
review the annual report and accounts and interim report 
respectively and to consider the external audit findings, and in 
September to review the activities of the previous year, the plan for 
the year ahead and to consider any emerging issues. At each 
meeting the performance and findings of the internal audit team are 
reviewed and the most recent key risks are considered. 

Attendees at each of the meetings are the committee’s members as 
well as, by invitation, the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial 
Officer, the Group Financial Controller, the General Counsel, the Director 
of Audit and Risk and the external auditor, Ernst and Young LLP (EY). 

Each meeting allows time for the committee to speak with key 
people without the presence of the others, in particular the external 
auditor and the Director of Audit and Risk.

Main activities during the year 
The committee supports the board in carrying out its responsibilities 
in relation to financial reporting, risk management and assessing 
internal controls. It also reviews the effectiveness of the company’s 
internal audit function and manages the relationship with the external 
auditors. The committee ensures that the company has appropriate 
provision for confidential and impartial whistleblowing process in line 
with good practice. 

Committee meetings usually take place prior to a board meeting, 
where I report to the board on the activity of the committee and 
matters of particular relevance to the board.

The committee undertook the following activities during the course 
of the year to discharge its responsibilities:

Financial reporting 
At each committee meeting the Chief Financial Officer presents a 
review of key areas of judgement, any changes in accounting policy 
and key financial control activities in the year. In addition, the Audit 
Committee reviews both the interim and preliminary results 
announcement along with financial statements. Where requested by 
the committee, or recommended by management, further detailed 
updates are presented on key topics. 

The committee also considers reporting from the external auditor, 
EY, on the interim report and financial statements, the audit plan and 
the outcome of the external audit and looks for constructive 
challenge from the auditors in all discussions.

To form its opinion, the committee reflected on the information it 
received and discussions during the year to evaluate whether: 
• The financial statements comply with all applicable financial 

reporting standards and any other required regulations

• Material areas of significant judgement have been given due 
consideration by management and reviewed with external 
auditors

• The application of acceptable accounting policies and practices is 

consistent across the group 

• The disclosures provided are clear and as required by financial 

reporting standards

• Any correspondence from regulators has been received in relation 

to our financial reporting

• The annual report and financial accounts represent a fair, balanced 

and understandable view of information for shareholders.

The primary areas of focus and judgement considered by the 
committee in relation to the 2015 accounts were as follows:

Revenue recognition
The group recognises revenue when goods are delivered and accepted 
by customers, and significant risks and rewards of ownership have 
passed to the buyer and can be measured reliably. Revenue includes 
deductions for long-term discounts and promotional discounts and 
management makes an accrual where it is probable that a rebate or 
discount will be earned. Governance of this process has been 
reviewed by the committee with updates during the year. 

The committee discussed the balanced approach to judgements 
and completeness of accruals with management and external 
auditors and agreed that that the policy is applied appropriately  
and consistently in the group financial statements.

Valuation of goodwill and indefinite life assets
The review of goodwill and intangible assets is based on a calculation 
of value in use, using cash flow projections based on market measures 
and financial budgets prepared by senior management and approved 
by the board of directors. Key assumptions include weighted 
average cost of capital (WACC), inflation and volume growth rates. 
Any potential triggers of impairment are sensitivity tested to provide 
comfort to management that sufficient headroom is present.

The asset valuations have been reviewed and tested by management 
and reviewed by the external auditors, including assessment of any 
potential reversal to the previous impairment made to the Ballygowan 
brand in 2010. The committee was satisfied that the outcome of testing 
was no requirement for impairment or reversal of impairment in 2015.

Exceptional and other items
A group policy to identify and classify exceptional and other items 
was approved by the committee in September, and includes items 
of significant income and expense which due to their size, nature or 
frequency merit separate presentation to enable users of the 
accounts to better understand performance.

The committee reviewed items that management classified as 
exceptional and other in light of the group policy and FRC guidance, 
and agree with their appropriateness.

Derivative and hedging activities
The group has derivative instruments to which hedge accounting is 
applied and which swap principal and interest of the US Private 
Placement notes. Forward foreign currency contracts were also 
purchased to hedge against the cost of the Brazilian Real 
transaction to acquire Ebba. Updates on derivatives and hedging 
activities were presented in the Chief Financial Officer’s paper in 
each meeting in the year, and the committee agreed the approach 
and treatment in the financial statements.

Taxation
The process for reporting the group’s tax expense and liability was 
reviewed and reported on to the committee, along with any changes 
in uncertain tax positions. The completeness and appropriateness of 
balance sheet provisions and the effective tax rate was discussed 
and agreed with the committee.

Defined benefit pension scheme valuation
The committee reviewed the outcome of the actuarial valuation of 
the pension assets and liabilities for the three defined benefit 
schemes under IAS19 and agree with the approach taken by 
management, recognising the external auditor’s review of the key 
assumptions used for discount rate and inflation.

44   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

governance audit committee continued

Acquisition of Ebba
The acquisition of Ebba was completed on 30 September 2015, 
shortly after the group’s year end on 27 September. Management 
discussed and agreed with the committee that in the period from 
announcing the deal on 23 July to the year end, the group did not 
take control of Ebba management or decision making and therefore 
no consolidation is required in 2015. The committee also agreed 
that sufficient time was not available to conclude the purchase price 
allocation exercise for the 2015 annual report and a post balance 
sheet event note has been included in the financial statements.

Fair, balanced and understandable
As part of the review of the annual report the committee considered 
whether the report and preliminary results announcement is fair, 
balanced and understandable when taken as a whole, and provides 
the information necessary to assess the company’s performance, 
business model and strategy. On the basis of its review activities, the 
committee recommended to the board that the report is fair, 
balanced and understandable.

Internal audit and control
The committee agreed the audit plan to be undertaken by the internal 
audit team prior to the start of the year, and during each of the meetings 
throughout the year, progress against this plan was reviewed. The plan 
was assessed on the basis of providing appropriate coverage over the 
internal control environment, strategic priorities and key risks. 

Additional areas were added to the audit plan as required where 
circumstances gave rise to an increased level of risk and any changes 
to the agreed audit plan were agreed by the committee. In light of the 
international growth strategy of the group, during the year the 
committee spent time ensuring the appropriate control environment 
was in place to support that strategy. The committee received an 
update from the Director of Audit and Risk at each meeting 
summarising the findings of the internal audits undertaken and the 
progress made against actions agreed from previous audits. Detailed 
updates on specific areas are provided at the request of the committee. 

During the year, an evaluation of the performance of the internal 
audit function was carried out by an external company who deemed 
the function to be effective when compared with other FTSE 250 
companies; all specific matters arising from the review were discussed 
and the Director of Audit and Risk is addressing them as part of a 
three-year strategy for the function.

Risk management
The risk management process is reviewed annually by the 
committee to ensure that it is set up to deliver appropriate risk 
management across the group. The risk management process is 
continually improving, in particular in relation to embedding across 
new and developing areas of the business. 

The committee believe that the improvements will continue to 
strengthen the way that the business understands and manages risk. 

A summary of the key risks and uncertainties to which the business 
is exposed to can be found on pages 28 and 29.

External audit 
The committee oversees the relationship with the external auditor 
and reviews effectiveness, performance and the independence of 
the external auditor overall. To assess effectiveness, the committee 
held discussions with management on the audit process and based 

its assessment on the feedback provided. The committee also holds 
private meetings with the external auditor at each meeting to provide 
opportunity for further discussion.

External auditor performance
The external auditors, Ernst and Young LLP, provided the committee 
with their plan for undertaking the year end audit at the committee 
meeting in May 2015. This highlighted the proposed approach and 
scope of the audit for the coming year and identified the areas of 
audit risk, including the audit approach for these areas. The 
significant areas identified were revenue recognition and 
management override especially in relation to rebates and discounts. 
Other areas of focus included the carrying value of goodwill and 
indefinite life assets, the accounting for the group’s derivatives and 
hedging activities, the valuation of the defined benefit pension 
scheme and taxation. The committee reviewed and appropriately 
challenged the basis for these before agreeing the proposed 
approach and scope of the external audit. 

The external auditors prepared a detailed report of their audit 
findings at the year end, which they took the committee through at 
the meeting in November. The findings were reviewed and 
discussed in detail by the committee, particularly in relation to the 
areas highlighted above. A similar review of the external auditors’ 
report of their findings at the half year review is undertaken by the 
committee. As part of this review the committee questioned and 
challenged the work undertaken, the findings and the key assumptions 
made, with particular attention to the areas of audit risk identified.

EY’s external audit team was subject to an audit quality review by 
the UK external audit regulator in relation to its audit of the 2014 
financial statements. The results were shared with the chairman of 
the Audit Committee and have been discussed with the EY audit 
partner. Whilst some limited areas for improvement were identified, 
the results did not cause any concern for the committee in terms of 
the overall quality of the external audit process. 

Independence and reappointment
The committee reviews the independence of the auditors when 
considering their reappointment following the year end close each 
year, and during the year. The external auditor is required to rotate 
the lead audit partner every five years. The current lead audit partner 
began his tenure for the financial year ended 30 September 2013. 
EY have been the company’s auditors since its stock market listing 
in 2005 (ten years) and during that time the external audit has not 
been formally tendered. The committee has reviewed the recent EU 
legislation and response from the UK regulatory bodies and 
considered the impact on the reappointment of the external 
auditors. The committee agreed that it will tender its external audit 
services during 2016 and have the new or reappointed auditors in 
place ahead of the year ending September 2017. 

As Chairman of the committee, I have regular contact with the 
external audit partner outside of committee meetings and without 
the management of the business present. 

The group has a policy regarding the provision of non-audit services 
by the external auditors, based on common practice of a maximum 
audit to non-audit fee ratio of 1:1, except in exceptional 
circumstances. Control over non-audit fees is exercised by ensuring 
non-audit projects, where fees are expected to exceed £50,000, are 
subject to my prior approval and that of the Chief Financial Officer. If 
non-audit fees on a certain project are expected to exceed 
£150,000, prior approval of the committee is required. We can 
confirm that we are significantly below the 1:1 ratio in this financial 
year as disclosed in note 7 in the reports and accounts.

45 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governancegovernance

nomination 
committee 

Gerald Corbett 
Nomination Committee Chairman

46   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

Objective
To lead the process for board and senior management 
appointments and to make recommendations to the board.

Responsibilities
The committee is responsible for considering and recommending  
to the board candidates who are appropriate for appointment as 
Executive and Non-Executive Directors and for other senior 
management roles, so as to maintain an appropriate balance of skills 
and experience within the company and on the board and to ensure 
progressive refreshing of the board. 

Membership and meetings 

Membership and attendance

Gerald Corbett (Chairman)

John Daly1

Bob Ivell

Ben Gordon

Ian McHoul

Number of meetings 
attended/held

6/6

3/3

5/6

6/6

5/6

Notes: 
1.   Meetings attended by John Daly subsequent to his appointment on 27 January 

2015. 

The committee comprises independent Non-Executive Directors, 
John Daly, Ben Gordon, Bob Ivell, Ian McHoul and myself as 
Chairman of the committee. The Chief Executive Officer also attends 
by invitation.

The committee meets as necessary and at least twice a year.

Main activities during the year
The committee considered and has made recommendations to the 
board in respect of:
• The appointment of John Daly, Non-Executive Director
• The appointment of Mathew Dunn, Chief Financial Officer, who 

succeeds John Gibney and who will be appointed to the board on 
25 November following the announcement of our preliminary 
results

• The search for a successor to Silvia Lagnado, Non-Executive 

Director, who resigned from the board on 31 July 

• A review of the board and committee membership following the 

changes to the composition of the board

• The appointment of Hessel de Jong, International Managing 
Director, as successor to Simon Stewart who resigned on  
30 October, 2015

• Succession planning for my role as Chairman
• A review of the findings of the 2015 board evaluation (for more 

information see pages 41 to 42).

Details of the recruitment process are set out on the next page.

 
 
governance nomination committee continued

Diversity
The committee monitors diversity on behalf of the board. At Britvic, 
we see diversity as a wider topic than simply gender and the board 
recommend to the company that, in order to achieve its future 
growth aspirations, it should remain committed to building a pipeline 
of diverse talent and to regularly review its HR processes, including 
recruitment and performance management frameworks. 

I am pleased to say that we continue to have a number of women in 
senior management roles. The directors’ view, however, remains that 
we do not feel in a position to publish a target of the percentage of 
women on the board. Further details of the company’s statistics on 
gender diversity may be found on page 24 of the Strategic Report. 

Board evaluation
Details of the review of the board and its committees, including this 
committee and my effectiveness as Chairman, undertaken during 
the year can be found on pages 41 to 42.

Having reviewed the results of the evaluation, the committee has 
confirmed to the board that the present board and its committees 
continue to operate effectively and that all of the Non-Executive 
Directors remained independent, with the exception of Joanne 
Averiss (PepsiCo-nominated Director) in accordance of the Code 
and should stand for re-election (or election in the case John Daly)  
at the AGM. 

Appointment of directors
There is a formal, rigorous and transparent procedure for the 
appointment of new directors to the board, under which the 
committee interviews suitable candidates who are proposed either 
by existing board members or by an external search firm. Careful 
consideration is given to ensure proposed appointees have enough 
time available to devote to the role and that the balance of skills, 
knowledge and experience on the board is maintained. When 
discussions relate to the appointment of my successor, the Senior 
Independent Director chairs the committee instead of me. When the 
committee has found a suitable candidate, as Chairman of the 
committee, I make a proposal to the whole board, which has 
retained responsibility for all such appointments. I also report on the 
outcome of committee meetings to the board.

During the year, we welcomed John Daly to the board. Silvia 
Lagnado stepped down from the board.

Appointment processes
The recruitment procedure described above was undertaken during 
the year for the appointments of John Daly and Mathew Dunn, Chief 
Financial Officer, who joins the board on 25 November 2015. The 
committee engaged Spencer Stuart, which held no other relations 
with the company, as the search consultancy, and the following 
process was undertaken:

• Role profiles were prepared against which potential candidates 

were considered

• As Chairman, I interviewed an initial list of candidates, from which 

a shortlist of preferred candidates was selected

• Other Non-Executive and Executive board members interviewed 
the shortlist of candidates and provided feedback to the committee
• The committee considered these views in its deliberations before 

recommending a preferred candidate to the board

• The board approved the appointment as recommended.

Succession planning
Succession planning has continued to be an area of focus of the 
committee during the year. This has included the independence of 
longer standing members of the board, in particular, Bob Ivell, SID 
and my role as Chairman. Accordingly, it has been agreed that Bob, 
who reaches his tenure as an independent director at the AGM, will 
not retire from the board at the AGM but that John Daly will take on 
his role as SID and as Chairman of the Remuneration Committee. 
Whilst Bob will no longer be counted as independent in compliance 
with the Code from the conclusion of the AGM, the board is unanimous 
in its view that it would be in the best interests of the company and 
its shareholders that he should remain on the board until it is 
satisfied that a suitable successor has been identified to replace him. 

The committee is in the process of recruiting for a successor to Silvia 
Lagnado, Non-Executive Director, with appropriate international 
marketing experience. It also recently made a recommendation to 
the board which resulted in the appointment of a successor to 
Simon Stewart, International Managing Director.

Whilst these changes unfold and until the new membership of the 
board is established I have willingly agreed to stay on as Chairman 
to ensure that the board and its committees continues to 
demonstrate effective leadership and the right balance of skills, 
experience, independence and knowledge of the company to 
discharge their respective duties and responsibilities effectively.

47 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governancegovernance

governance

remuneration 
committee 

Bob Ivell 
Remuneration Committee Chairman

Objective
To agree remuneration policy and to set individual compensation 
for directors and senior management. 

Membership and meetings 

Membership and attendance

Number of meetings 
attended/held

Bob Ivell (Chairman)

Gerald Corbett

John Daly1

Ben Gordon

Ian McHoul

5/5

4/5

2/2

5/5

5/5

Notes:  
1. Meetings attended by John Daly subsequent to his  
appointment on 27 January 2015.

The committee comprises Gerald Corbett, John Daly, Ben 
Gordon, Ian McHoul and myself, as Chairman. The company’s 
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (who may attend by invitation) 
do not attend meetings when their individual remuneration is 
discussed. The committee meets as necessary and at least three 
times a year. As Chairman of the committee, I report on the 
outcome of the meetings to the board. 

Main activities during the year
Full details of the committee’s responsibilities and of its activities are 
set out in the Directors’ Remuneration Report which follows.

48   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

directors’ 
remuneration 
report

Annual Statement from the Chairman of the 
Remuneration Committee

I am pleased to present the Directors’ 
Remuneration Report for the year ended 
27 September 2015, which was another 
excellent year for Britvic despite some 
very challenging market conditions. 

The contents of this annual statement provide 
an overview of the remuneration outcomes for 
the period ended on 27 September 2015 and 
a summary of the business context in which 
those outcomes have been determined.

The remainder of the report sets out:
• An ‘at a glance’ summary of the key pay decisions taken over the 

year and an overview of how the Remuneration Policy for 
directors will be implemented in 2016

• The annual report on remuneration which is subject to an advisory 
shareholder vote at the January 2016 Annual General Meeting (AGM) 
and sets out the detail of payments made to directors in respect 
of the year ended 27 September 2015

• The current Remuneration Policy for directors approved by 

shareholders at the AGM in January 2015.

It is the intention of the Remuneration Committee (the committee) to 
operate the current remuneration policy that was approved at the 
January 2015 AGM for a period of three years. However it may be 
necessary to bring amendments to the Remuneration Policy back to 
shareholders for approval in advance of this in certain circumstances 
(e.g. such as a significant unanticipated strategic change to the 
company).

Business performance and remuneration 
outcomes over the year
Based on our Remuneration Policy approved at the last AGM both 
the outcomes under our short and long-term variable pay elements 
for Executive Directors reflect 2015’s strong profit, continued longer 
term earnings growth and ROIC performance:
• Annual bonus pay outs for Executive Directors are at 53.3% of the 

maximum opportunity

• Three-year EPS, TSR and ROIC performance conditions attaching 
to our long-term incentive awards made in March 2013 will both 
vest at 100% of the maximum opportunity.

In line with the remuneration reporting regulations, details of the 
performance targets and actual achievement against these are set 
out in the Annual Report on Remuneration.

 
governance directors’ remuneration report continued

Shareholder engagement 
The committee and I are committed to ensuring an open dialogue 
with our shareholders and recognise there are a number of divergent 
views across the various stakeholders. We were pleased to receive 
a very positive response at the January 2015 AGM with 97.9% 
votes “For” our Remuneration Policy and 99.1% votes “For” the 
annual report on remuneration. Should you have any questions 
relating to our approach to executive remuneration, please feel free 
to contact me at investors@britvic.com. 

Executive Director changes
John Gibney will step down from his role as Chief Financial Officer 
on 25 November 2015 and retire from the company in April 2016. I 
am delighted to welcome Mathew Dunn as his successor. Details of 
each individual’s remuneration are set out in the Annual Report on 
Remuneration, and a summary is provided in the remuneration at a 
glance section on the following page. Decisions on both individuals’ 
pay have been taken in line with our approved Remuneration Policy. 

Other board changes
Whilst I will be continuing my duties as a director on the board, I am 
pleased to confirm that John Daly, my fellow Non-Executive Director, 
will succeed me as Senior Independent Director and Remuneration 
Committee Chairman with effect from the conclusion of the AGM.

In the meantime, I look forward to receiving your support on the 
Annual Report on Remuneration at the January 2016 AGM.

Bob Ivell  
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee

Remuneration at a glance
This section summarises the remuneration outcomes for the 2015 financial year, including how the Remuneration Policy has been 
implemented during the year and the link between remuneration and our strategy.

Single total figure of remuneration for Executive Directors 2015

Executive Directors

Simon Litherland
John Gibney

Salary
£’000 £’000

574.4
370.4

Benefits

£’000

22.6
22.1

Bonus

£’000

428.6
236.9

LTIP

£’000

1,791.9
1,108.5

Pension

£’000

141.2
81.0

Total

£’000

2,958.7
1,818.9

Summary of incentive outcomes for 2015
Annual Bonus

Performance measure

PBT1
Revenue2
Free cash flow3
Total

Weighting 
(% of bonus 
maximum)

50%
20%
30%
100%

Threshold

Target

Maximum

Actual 
performance

2015 bonus awarded 
(% of maximum)

£m

140.1
1,377.3
61.8

£m

147.5
1,391.2
65.0

 £m

154.9
1,405.1
68.3

£m

147.0
1,327.6
89.3

CEO

23.3%
0.0%
30.0%
53.3%

CFO

23.3%
0.0%
30.0%
53.3%

Notes:
 1.  PBT – Profit before tax, exceptional and other items. 
2.  Revenue – Actual revenue performance translated at budgeted foreign exchange rates. 
3.  Free cash flow – Net cash flow excluding movements in borrowings, dividend payments, exceptional and other items and proceeds from the share placement in July 2015.
These measures and definitions are consistently used throughout this Remuneration Report

Long-term incentives

Plan

Performance conditions  
and targets set

Performance outcome

Level of award vesting  
for CEO and CFO 
(% of maximum)

2012 
ESOP
2012 
PSP

3-year EPS1 growth over RPI of +3% to +7%

3-year relative TSR (50% weighting): ranking 
between median and upper quartile against the 
comparator group 

3-year average ROIC (50% weighting): 20.7% to 21.5% 

EPS growth significantly above the performance 
range at RPI+18.1% p.a. was achieved
Relative TSR was in the upper quartile of the 
peer group

100%

100%

3-year average ROIC was above the 
performance range at 23.9% 

Notes:
 1.  EPS – adjusted diluted earnings per share as disclosed in note 11 on page 99, but excluding the impact of the share placement in July 2015, which increases the 

adjusted diluted EPS by 0.4pence.

This definition is used consistently throughout this Remuneration Report.

49 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governance 
 
governance directors’ remuneration report continued

Summary of implementation of the Remuneration Policy for 2016

Policy element

Base salary

Pension

Annual bonus

Annual bonus measures

ESOP

ESOP measures

PSP

PSP measures

Payment for threshold 
performance

Malus and clawback

Simon Litherland  
(CEO)

John Gibney  
(CFO)

£580,000 increasing to 
£600,000 from 1 January 2016

£374,400  
no increase

28%

25%

Mathew Dunn  
(CFO Designate)

£340,000 
no increase 

23%

Maximum 140% of salary

Maximum 120% of salary

Maximum 120% of salary

On target 70% of salary

On target 60% of salary

On target 60% of salary

For 2016 the following 
performance metrics and 
weightings apply to the bonus:

PBT 50%

Revenue 30%

Free cash flow 20%

Maximum 300% of salary

No ESOP award will be made

Maximum 200% of salary 

EPS compound growth: 
threshold performance of 6% 
p.a. increasing on a straight line 
basis to maximum vesting for 
EPS compound growth of 12% 
p.a.

Maximum 150% of salary

No PSP award will be made

Maximum 80% of salary 

75% weighting on EPS compound growth: threshold performance of 6% p.a. increasing on a straight 
line basis to maximum vesting for EPS compound growth of 12% p.a.

25% weighting on 3-year relative TSR: threshold performance of the median of the comparator group, 
increasing on a straight line basis to 100% vesting for upper quartile performance.

The committee will also consider underlying ROIC over the performance period to ensure it remains 
appropriate relative to the EPS growth delivered.

For the annual bonus, 0% of maximum will be awarded 

For the ESOP and PSP, 20% of maximum will be awarded

Malus and clawback may be applied to Annual Bonus or LTIP awards in certain conditions where the 
payment of the bonus resulted from a material misstatement in the company’s accounts or an error  
in the assessment of the satisfaction of a performance condition

Shareholding requirement

200% of salary

100% of salary

100% of salary

John Gibney’s pay on retirement 
John Gibney will retire from the company in April 2016. John will be paid up to his date of departure. John will receive a pro-rated bonus in 
respect of 2016 subject to performance conditions and his outstanding awards under the ESOP and PSP will vest at the normal vesting date 
on a pro-rated basis, subject to the achievement of the relevant performance conditions. John will not receive the 2015 ESOP or PSP award 
due to his upcoming departure, nor will he receive a salary increase on 1 January 2016. John has a deferred pension under the defined 
benefit pension and also the Britvic Executive Top Up Scheme (BETUS), the company’s unfunded retirement benefits scheme. Both of these 
were closed to future accrual on 10 April 2011. He will be eligible, if he chooses, to cash out early from these pension benefits on a 
discounted basis as per the Remuneration Policy. No additional payments will be made to John as a result of his departure. 

Mathew Dunn’s pay on appointment 
Mathew Dunn will be appointed to the position of Chief Financial Officer on 25 November 2015. Mathew’s pay is in line with the 
Remuneration Policy and is set out in the table above. As part of his recruitment, Mathew will receive a relocation allowance with a net value 
of £70,000 to assist in his move from South Africa to the UK (as previously communicated in the RNS announcement). No other payments 
were made to Mathew on his recruitment to compensate for awards forgone from his previous employer or otherwise. 

50   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

governance directors’ remuneration report continued

Illustrations of the application of Remuneration Policy
A key element of the company’s Remuneration Policy is to provide a significant part of potential reward through performance based incentive 
plans. Set out below is the reward mix for both Executive Directors at minimum performance, on-target performance and maximum 
performance under the current Remuneration Policy for the year ending 2 October 2016. The total rewards available to the Executive 
Directors, ignoring any change in share price and roll-up of dividends, are set out in the illustration below. 

3,500,000

3,000,000

2,500,000

2,000,000

1,500,000

£3,050

£2,054

41%

42%

31%

1,000,000

£770

20%

500,000

100%

38%

28%

0

  Min 

Target 
Simon Litherland 

Max 

This chart has been prepared using the 
following assumptions:

1  Base salaries as at 1 January 2016

  LTIP

  Short-term incentives

2   Benefits reflect those estimated to be paid in 

  Total fixed pay

the 2016 financial year

£1,311

£916

36%

31%

22%

47%

31%

33%

£420

20%
44%

£551

28%

31%

£427

100%

Target 
John Gibney 

Max 

  Min 

Target 
Mathew Dunn

Max

£289

100%

Min 

3   Target bonus is calculated at 50% of 

maximum opportunity 

4   Target vesting for the PSP is 60%, being the 
mid-point between threshold and maximum 
vesting level 

5   Options awarded under the ESOP are valued 
on the standard market value for options of 
30% of the face value of award. A target 
vesting of 60% values the ESOP award at 
18% of the maximum value

6   For John Gibney, all items of pay shown are 

pro-rated assuming he leaves the company in 
April 2016. LTIPs are not included as no 
awards will be made for 2015

Britvic’s remuneration principles and link to strategy
The Remuneration Policy is designed to support our overall vision to become the most dynamic, creative and admired soft drinks company 
in the world. Remuneration arrangements, therefore, are comprised of the following:

• Fixed pay: base salary, pension and benefits
• Performance pay: annual bonus and long-term incentives (share options and performance shares)

The remuneration principles which underpin the design and structure of our current arrangements in support of our vision are set out below:

Competitive market 
positioning and 
opportunity

Pay aligned with 
sustainable  
long-term 
performance

To attract, retain and engage the executive talent we need to realise our vision and deliver our strategy, 
remuneration arrangements need to be sufficiently competitive but not excessive.

The mix between both fixed and variable pay as well as the balance between rewarding short versus long-term 
performance are critical to ensure they are correctly balanced and rewarding those behaviours that will lead to the 
realisation of our long-term vision without compromise for short-term gain.

In addition, all forms of variable pay are only fully delivered in return for performance above the standards required 
by Britvic and our shareholders – in other words superior pay is only delivered for superior performance.

Incentive metrics 
aligned with our 
strategy

The performance measures selected to determine both annual bonus and long-term incentive plans have been 
carefully considered to focus on a simple and effective selection of those key drivers of our strategy and long-
term value creation for our shareholders (see below). 

Alignment of 
executive and 
shareholder  
interests

To ensure the continued alignment of executive and shareholder interests, the greatest potential pay opportunity 
for executives is via long-term incentive plans. Awards are based in shares and dependant on a balance 
of absolute and relative growth in long-term value creation for shareholders. In particular, the mix of share 
options and performance shares is designed to ensure that executives are only rewarded for superior market 
performance and the realisation of our vision. This is further reinforced by meaningful shareholding guidelines for 
executives so that their long-term wealth remains tied to Britvic’s long-term performance. 

Mindful of our 
wider stakeholder 
responsibilities 

In support of our vision our Executive Directors’ pay arrangement are not only focused on financial returns but 
also mindful of performance against our wider long-term stakeholder goals. The Remuneration Committee take 
great care to set appropriate targets that do not compromise our wider stakeholder aspirations. Both malus 
and clawback provisions are in place to address potential inappropriate actions or risk taking when determining 
incentive plan pay outs. 

51 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governancegovernance directors’ remuneration report continued

The table below sets out how Britvic’s key incentives and their supporting performance metrics link to our strategic priorities set out on page 10.

Incentive

Purpose

Metric

Link to strategy

Annual bonus

To motivate employees 
and incentivise delivery 
of annual performance 
targets.

Profit Before  
Tax (PBT)

PBT is a measure of the company’s financial performance and, in 
particular, how successful the company has been at accelerating its 
profitability from the various strategic initiatives in place. For bonus 
purposes PBT is pre-exceptional items and other items in order to 
reflect the underlying financial performance of the business.

Revenue

Reflects the core strategic objective of growing revenues in all the 
company’s markets, particularly in international markets.

Free cash flow

Free cash flow and improving cash conversion is key to allowing 
continued investment in international opportunities as well as 
maintaining our goal of a progressive dividend policy.

LTIPs (ESOP 
and PSP)

To motivate and 
incentivise delivery of 
sustainable, long-term 
performance and 
encourage share price 
and dividend growth 
over the performance 
period of the awards.

Three-year  
EPS growth

Three-year 
relative TSR

Adjusted diluted EPS is an important long-term financial metric linked 
to long-term value creation for our shareholders and also supports our 
continued goal of a progressive dividend policy.

Relative TSR strongly links share price growth and dividends to the 
rewards executives receive. The relative nature of the measure ensures 
participants only receive awards if outperformance is achieved against 
a basket of peers.

ROIC

Return on invested capital is an important financial discipline to ensure 
long-term investment returns to shareholders are value enhancing.

52   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

governance

annual report 
on remuneration

Consideration by the directors of matters 
relating to directors’ remuneration.

Membership of the Remuneration 
Committee
During the year, the committee consisted wholly of independent 
Non-Executive Directors:

• Bob Ivell (Chairman)
• Gerald Corbett
• John Daly1
• Ben Gordon 
• Ian McHoul 

At the invitation of the Chairman of the Committee, the Chief 
Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, plc Human Resources 
Director, Director of Compensation & Benefits and General Counsel 
& Company Secretary attend the meetings of the Committee to 
provide input to assist with the consideration of particular items, 
except when their own remuneration is under consideration. Details 
of the attendance by committee members at committee meetings 
are shown on page 48.

Note:   
1. John Daly was appointed on 27 January 2015. 

Composition and terms of reference 
The committee’s composition and terms of reference are in line with 
the 2012 UK Corporate Governance Code and are available on the 
company’s website or on request from the Company Secretary. 
While the Chairman, who was independent on initial appointment, is 
a member of the committee, he is not present when his own 
remuneration is under discussion.

The committee meets no less than three times a year and has 
responsibility for:

• Reviewing Executives’ remuneration in terms of the pay policy of 
the company as a whole, pay and conditions elsewhere in the 
group, and the overall cost to the shareholders

• Determining, within agreed terms of reference, and taking into 
account corporate performance on environmental, social and 
governance issues, the remuneration of the Chairman and specific 
remuneration packages for each of the Executive Directors and 
other members of the executive team, including pension rights, 
any compensation payments and benefits

• Approving the design and operation of the company’s incentive 
arrangements, both short and long-term. This includes agreeing 
the targets that are applied to awards made to senior executives
• Responsibility for all of the company’s employee share plans and 

the share dilution position

• Ensuring, via regular reviews, that the company’s pay policies 

remain appropriate and relevant.

Advisors 
In August 2014 the committee undertook a review of remuneration 
advisors and following a competitive tender process, PwC were 
appointed as the advisors to the committee. The company is also 
advised by PwC on other remuneration-related items and provided 
consulting support on non-remuneration related issues. PwC is a 
member of the Remuneration Consultants Group (the professional 
body for executive remuneration consultants). PwC’s fees in respect 
of advice to the committee in the year under review were £27,350 
and were charged on the basis of that firm’s standard terms of 
business for advice provided. PwC also provide advice to Internal 
Audit on specific projects.

The committee also received advice from Towers Watson during the 
year the fees for which were £2,050 and were charged on the basis 
of the firm’s standard terms of business for advice provided. Towers 
Watson also provides advice to the company on other remuneration-
related issues.

During the year, Addleshaw Goddard LLP was also engaged by the 
committee to provide legal advice on contractual arrangements and 
share schemes. Addleshaw Goddard LLP also provides legal advice 
to the company on other legal issues.

Unless otherwise stated, these advisors have no other connection 
with the company and the committee, based on its experience, is 
satisfied that the advice it received from these organisations was 
objective and independent. 

Statement of implementation of 
Remuneration Policy in the following year
The Remuneration Policy approved at the January 
2015 AGM will continue to be implemented from the 
commencement of the new financial year 2016 as 
follows:

Base salary
Following the year-end review, the committee made the following 
base salary decisions to take effect from 1 January 2016 which are 
in line with the disclosed policy in this report.

2016  
base salary
£’000

2015  
base salary
£’000

Simon Litherland

John Gibney

Mathew Dunn

600.0

374.4

340.0

580.0

374.4

340.0

Increase

3.4%

0%

0%

In reviewing the salary for the CEO for 2016 the Committee took into 
account a range of factors including the typical salary increase made 
for GB-based employees of 1.0% to 3.5%.

Benefits and pension
Benefits and pension arrangements will be implemented in line with 
the Remuneration Policy for 2016.

53 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governancegovernance annual report on remuneration continued

Annual bonus 
In line with the Remuneration Policy¹, the performance measures 
and weightings are: 
• Profit before tax2 (50%) 
• Revenue3 (30%)
• Free cash flow4 (20%)

In order to place greater focus on top line growth in 2016, the 
committee has increased the weighting of revenue to 30% of the total 
bonus and at the same time reduced the weighting for free cash flow 
to 20%. Profit before tax will remain at 50% of the total bonus.

Target award amounts for the CEO and CFO are 70% and 60% of 
base salary and maximum award values are 140% and 120% of 
base salary, respectively. Both the outgoing CFO and the incoming 
CFO will be entitled to an annual bonus, pro-rated to reflect their 
length of service with the company. 

The board is of the view that the performance targets under the 
bonus plan are commercially sensitive and that it would be 
detrimental to the interests of the company to disclose them before 
the start of the financial year. Disclosure of targets in advance could 
lead the company to be at a disadvantage as many competitors are 
not subject to the same levels of disclosure. Targets and the 
performance against them will be disclosed in the remuneration 
report following the end of the financial year.

Notes:
1.  These performance measures and weightings will also apply to the new 

incoming CFO (Mathew Dunn).

2. Profit before tax (PBT) – Profit before tax before exceptional and other items.
3.  Revenue – Actual revenue performance translated at budgeted foreign exchange rates.
4.  Free cash flow – net cash flow excluding movements in borrowings, dividend 

payments, exceptional and other items and proceeds from the share placement 
in July 2015.

Long-term incentive plans (PSP and ESOP)
Implemented in line with the Remuneration Policy for 2016. During the course of the year the committee will review the plans in respect of 
emerging best practice and the impact of the Ebba acquisition.

The committee has determined that the following awards be made in line with the disclosed policy of this report. 

John Gibney will not receive any LTIP awards for 2015 due to his planned retirement in April 2016. 

Award at 
threshold 
vesting, 20% 
of maximum 
(% salary)

Award at 
maximum 
vesting  
(% of salary)

Estimated 
face value of 
awards
£’000

Performance  
period

60%

300%

£1,740

30%

150%

£870

3 years 
commencing 28 
September 2015

3 years 
commencing 28 
September 2015

40%

200%

£680

16%

80%

£272

3 years 
commencing 28 
September 2015

3 years 
commencing 28th 
September 2015

Award type

Performance measure

Share options

Simon 
Litherland

Performance 
shares

Share options

Mathew 
Dunn

Performance 
shares

Threshold vesting for EPS 
compound growth of 6% p.a.
Maximum vesting for EPS 
compound growth of 12% p.a.
EPS growth (75% weighting):
Threshold vesting for EPS 
compound growth of 6% p.a.
Maximum vesting for EPS 
compound growth of 12% p.a.
Relative TSR (25% weighting): 
Threshold payout for ranking at 
median against the comparator 
group of 18 companies and 
maximum payout for ranking at  
or above the upper quartile.
Threshold vesting for EPS 
compound growth of 6% p.a.
Maximum vesting for EPS 
compound growth of 12% p.a.
EPS growth (75% weighting):
Threshold vesting for compound 
growth of 6% p.a.
Maximum vesting for EPS 
compound growth of 12% p.a.
Relative TSR (25% weighting): 
threshold payout for ranking at 
median against the comparator 
group of 18 companies and 
maximum payout for ranking at or 
above the upper quartile.

Notes:   
1.   EPS will be measured using adjusted diluted earnings per ordinary share.
2.  The option exercise price will be disclosed next year after the options have been granted under the ESOP.
3.   The committee will also consider underlying ROIC over the performance period when assessing the vesting of the PSP to ensure it remains satisfactory.
4.  The relative TSR comparator group is currently made up of the following 18 companies; AG Barr plc, Associated British Foods, C&C Group, Dairy Crest, Diageo, Fuller Smith & 
Turner, Glanbia, Greencore, Greene King, Marston’s, Nichols, Origin Enterprises, Premier Foods, Reckitt Benckiser, SABMiller, Smith & Nephew, Tate and Lyle, Wetherspoon.

54   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

governance annual report on remuneration continued

Details of remuneration package for Mathew Dunn 
Details of Mathew Dunn’s remuneration package are set out below. Mathew’s service contract, remuneration and benefits are in line with 
Remuneration Policy as approved by shareholders at the AGM in January 2015. The Remuneration Policy can be found on page 62. 

Item of remuneration 

Application for Mathew Dunn

Base salary

Element of fixed pay that reflects the 
individual’s role, position, experience 
and contribution to the group.

Mathew’s basic salary will be £340,000. This recognises his significant experience in the 
beverage sector and expertise in operational leadership.

In line with the Remuneration Policy it is the Remuneration Committee’s intention to move his 
base salary towards the market median rate over time, subject to performance and continued 
development in the role. This may result in salary increases higher than that of the wider 
employee population in the first three years following appointment.

Benefits

Benefits provided are as set out in the Remuneration Policy. 

To provide market typical benefits 
which are valued by recipients and 
allow Executives to carry out their 
duties efficiently.

Pension

Supports a market aligned 
compensation package and assists 
participants plan for retirement.

Annual bonus 

To motivate employees and 
incentivise delivery of annual 
performance targets.

LTIPs – Executive Share Option 
Plan (ESOP) and Performance 
Share Plan (PSP)

To motivate and incentivise 
delivery of sustained, long-term 
performance and encourage share 
price and dividend growth over the 
performance period of the awards

Contract

Additional awards

As Mathew was resident in South Africa at the time of his appointment, he will receive a 
relocation allowance with a net value of £70,000 to assist with his move to the UK. 

Mathew will receive a maximum annual pension contribution of 23% of basic salary. The 
balance above the annual allowance set by the HMRC will be delivered as a cash supplement 
on a cost neutral basis to the company. 

Mathew will be eligible for an annual bonus of up to 120% of basic salary. The performance 
measures will be consistent with those for the CEO. 

Under the company’s Executive Share Option Plan, Mathew will a receive a share award equal 
to 200% of his basic salary in respect of 2016 and he will also receive an award under the 
company’s Performance Share Plan equivalent to 80% of his basic salary in respect of 2016. 
These awards will be subject to the relevant Plan rules and the performance measures will be 
consistent with those for the CEO.

Mathew’s service contract requires six months’ notice of termination by him and 12 months’ 
notice by the company. 

The company is not making any payments to Mathew in lieu of any forfeited bonus, long-term 
incentives or benefits arising from his resignation from South African Breweries Ltd. 

55 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governancegovernance annual report on remuneration continued

Single total figure of directors remuneration (subject to audit)
Non-Executive Directors
Details of the total fees paid to Non-Executive Directors and the Chairman for the period ended 27 September 2015 and 28 September 
2014 are set out in the table below:

Basic fee
£’000

Remuneration 
Committee Chair fee
£’000

Audit  
Committee Chair fee
£’000

SID fee
£’000

Total fees paid
£’000

2015

Gerald Corbett

235.8

Joanne Averiss

John Daly1

Ben Gordon

Bob Ivell

Silvia Lagnado2

Ian McHoul

52.4

33.4

52.4

52.5

45.3

52.4

2014

230.0

50.7

-

50.7

50.9

15.7

27.5

Notes: 
1. John Daly was appointed on 27 January 2015.
2. Silvia Lagnado resigned on 31 July 2015.

2015

2014

2015

2014

2015

2014

-

-

-

-

8.0

-

-

-

-

-

-

8.0

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

8.0

4.3

-

-

-

-

8.0

-

-

-

-

-

-

8.0

-

-

2015

235.8

52.4

33.4

52.4

68.5

45.3

60.4

2014

230.0

50.7

-

50.7

66.9

15.7

31.8

Executive Directors
The table below sets out the total and a breakdown of the remuneration for each Executive for the financial year under review. Additional 
details of each component are set out below the table: 

Salary

Benefits

Annual Bonus

LTIP1

Pension or cash in lieu

Total

Simon Litherland

John Gibney

2015
£’000

574.4

22.6

428.6

1,791.9

141.2

2,958.7

2014
£’000

546.2

21.1

552.0

705.5

139.5

2015
£’000

370.4

22.1

236.9

1,108.5

81.0

2014
£’000

355.9

20.5

308.3

958.4

80.9

1,964.3

1,818.9

1,724.0

Notes: 
1. 2014 LTIP values re-stated based on the share price of £6.915 as at 8 December 2014.

i)  Base salary – Corresponds to the amounts received during the year.

 On retirement in April 2016, John Gibney will be treated in line with the approved Remuneration Policy. He will not receive a salary increase 
in January 2016 due to his imminent departure. John will receive a pro-rated bonus in respect of 2016 subject to performance conditions 
and awards under the ESOP and PSP will vest at the normal vesting date on a pro-rated basis, subject to the achievement of the relevant 
performance conditions. John will not receive the 2015 ESOP or PSP award due to his upcoming departure. He will not be eligible for any 
pay in lieu of notice or severance as a result of his departure. 

 During the year under review Simon Litherland’s salary was increased from £560,000 to £580,000 on 1 January 2015 and John Gibney’s 
salary was increased from £360,000 to £374,400 on 1 January 2015. 

ii)  Benefits – Corresponds to the taxable value of all benefits paid in respect of the year.

 Benefits comprise car allowance, private medical assurance, life assurance, annual free share award and matching shares under the Share 
Incentive Plan.

56   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

 
 
 
 
 
governance annual report on remuneration continued

iii) Annual bonus – Corresponds to the total bonus earned under the bonus plan in respect of 2015 performance.

The table below sets out the bonus outcome for each Executive and the respective performance targets and performance against these:

2015 maximum 
bonus  
opportunity

2015 bonus  
earned 
(£’000)

2015 bonus  
earned  
(% of maximum)

Performance 
measure

Weighting 
(% of bonus 
maximum)

Threshold 
£m

Target
£m

Maximum
£m

Actual  
performance

(% of 
salary)

CFO

CEO

CFO

CEO

CFO

PBT

Revenue

50%

140.1

147.5

154.9

147.0

20% 1,377.3

1,391.2

1,405.1

1,327.6

Free cash flow

Total

30%

100%

iv) Long-term incentives

61.8

65.0

68.3

89.3

70%

28%

42%

60%

24%

36%

140% 120%

187.4

103.6

23.3% 23.3%

0.0

241.2

428.6

0.0

0.0%

0.0%

133.3

30.0% 30.0%

236.9

53.3% 53.3%

Vesting outcome and estimated value of the ESOP and PSP with three-year performance periods ending on 27 September 2015.

ESOP

Performance  
conditions and  
targets set

Simon 
Litherland

Threshold vesting for EPS 
growth of RPI +3% p.a.

John 
Gibney

Maximum vesting for EPS 
growth of RPI +7% p.a.

Maximum  
potential 
value 

300% of 
salary 

250% of 
salary

Performance outcome

EPS growth significantly 
above the performance 
range at RPI+18.1% p.a 

Level of award 
vesting
(% of  
maximum)

Total value of 
vesting (£‘000)

Number of 
shares

100%

919.3

357,881

100%

518.2

201,747

PSP

Simon 
Litherland

John 
Gibney

Vesting is on a straight-line 
basis between threshold and 
maximum.

Exercise price for the options is 
427.52 pence.

Performance  
conditions and  
targets set

Relative TSR (50% weighting): 
Threshold payout for raking 
at median vs the comparator 
group of 18 companies and 
maximum payout for ranking at 
or above the upper quartile.

ROIC (50% weighting): Threshold 
payout for total ROIC of 20.7% 
over the three-year performance 
period and maximum payout for 
ROIC of 21.5%.

Vesting is on a straight-line 
basis between threshold and 
maximum. 

Level  
of award 
vesting

Total value  
of vesting 
£‘000

Number  
of shares

100%

872.6

127,493

100%

590.3

86,244

Maximum  
potential 
value 

100% of 
salary 

100% of 
salary 

Performance  
outcome

Britvic’s TSR was positioned 
in the upper quartile vs the 
comparator group resulting 
in a vesting of 50%. 

3 year average ROIC of 
23.9% p.a. was achieved 
resulting in 50% of the total 
award vesting.

Notes: 
1.  The combined PSP and ESOP vesting values were estimated at £1,791,958 for Simon Litherland and £1,108,542 for John Gibney.
2.  A share price estimate of 684.4p was used to calculate the value of the above awards which is based on the average share price over the last quarter of the financial year.
3.   The relative TSR comparator group is made up of the following 18 companies; AG Barr plc, Associated British Foods, C&C Group, Dairy Crest, Diageo, Fuller Smith & 

Turner, Glanbia, Greencore, Greene King, Marston’s, Nichols, Origin Enterprises, Premier Foods, Reckitt Benckiser, SABMiller, Smith & Nephew, Tate and Lyle, 
Wetherspoon.

4.  Threshold vesting is set at 25% of maximum for both PSP and ESOP.
5.  Rolled up dividends earned over the performance period are included within the total value of the vesting PSP award.

57 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governancegovernance annual report on remuneration continued

v) Total pension entitlements

The table below sets out the value of the cash allowance paid to Directors for the year under review and the increase in value of the accrued 
pension.

Value of cash allowance  
paid during year to  
27 September 2015
£’000

Value of pension accrued  
during the year to 
27 September 2015
£’000

Total value of pension for  
year ending 27 September 2015 
shown in total single figure table
£’000

Simon Litherland

John Gibney

141.2

81.0

nil

nil

141.2

81.0

Simon Litherland’s and John Gibney’s normal retirement age is 60.

John Gibney has a deferred pension in the defined benefit section of the Plan and is a member of the Britvic Executive Top Up Scheme 
(‘BETUS’), the company’s unfunded retirement benefits scheme.

Both the Plan and BETUS were closed to future accrual on 10 April 2011. The total accrued pension and transfer value in the combined Plan 
and BETUS are £204,300 p.a. and £6.9m respectively, as at 27 September 2015. They have been calculated based on entitlements accrued 
to 10 April 2011 but using market conditions at 27 September 2015. These figures also include increases to accrued pension since the date 
of leaving defined benefit service for this member, as required under the rules of the Plan and BETUS. The aim of these increases is to align 
the benefits with price inflation between the date of leaving pensionable service in the Plan and BETUS and the date when benefits are 
drawn. 

In line with all members of the defined benefits section of the Plan, John Gibney will benefit from the Enhanced Early Retirement Facility 
(‘EERF’) which allows the Plan members to retire within five years of reaching normal pension age without a reduction in their pension.  
The EERF includes benefits payable from BETUS and is non-contractual. Continuation of the EERF formed part of the agreement with the 
Plan trustee on the closure of the defined benefit section of the Plan. The company has given notice to all of the Plan members that the EERF 
will be withdrawn by 5 April 2016.

As stated earlier in the report, John Gibney will retire in April 2016. In accordance with the terms of the EERF the Remuneration Committee 
may consider offering a discounted one-off cash settlement to John Gibney in respect of his deferred benefits under the defined benefits 
pension and BETUS to reduce the company’s balance sheet exposure. Any payment will be made as a taxable lump sum and will extinguish 
all rights under the BETUS, and he will not be entitled to any further benefits from the scheme. Full details will be made available in next 
years’ Directors Remuneration Report. After this there will be no executives with a deferred defined benefit pension entitlement. 

The cash allowance payable to the executives:
• Reflects contributions the company would have made to the defined contribution section of the Plan had these individuals elected to join, 

less a deduction to ensure the cash allowance is cost neutral to the company from a National Insurance perspective 

• Is paid at a rate of 24.6% of pensionable pay (base salary only) for the CEO and 22.0% of pensionable pay (base salary only) to the CFO.

Outside appointments
Simon Litherland is the President and Chairman of Incorporated Society of British Advertisers (ISBA). John Gibney was Britvic’s nominated 
Director of Interactive Screen Media Limited, a joint venture company, until 10 November 2015, when he resigned.

58   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

governance annual report on remuneration continued

Scheme interests awarded during the year (subject to audit) 
The following tables set out the ESOP and PSP awards granted to Executive Directors under the LTIP during the year under review. All 
awards are subject to performance conditions:

ESOP

Performance conditions  
and targets set

Award at threshold vesting,  
20% of maximum (% salary)

Maximum  
potential value 

Performance period

Face value  
of awards
£’000

Simon 
Litherland

Threshold vesting for EPS 
compound growth of 6% p.a.

John 
Gibney

Maximum vesting for EPS 
compound growth of 12% p.a.

60%

50%

Vesting is on a straight-line 
basis between threshold and 
maximum.

Exercise price for the options is 
671pence.

300% of salary  1,680.0

250% of salary 900.0

3 years commencing 
29 September 2014

PSP

Performance conditions  
and targets set

Award at threshold vesting, 
20% of maximum (% salary)

Maximum  
potential value 

Performance period

Face value  
of awards
£’000

Simon 
Litherland

John 
Gibney

EPS growth (75% weighting):

30%

150% of salary  840.0

Threshold vesting for EPS 
compound growth of 6% p.a.

20%

100% of salary  360.0

Maximum vesting for EPS 
compound growth of 12% p.a.

Relative TSR (25% weighting): 

Threshold payout for ranking at 
median vs the comparator group 
of 18 companies and maximum 
payout for ranking at or above 
the upper quartile.

3 years commencing 
29 September 2014

Notes: 
1.  The share price used to determine the award levels for the PSP and ESOP was 671p, based on the opening share price at 12 December 2014.
2.   The relative TSR comparator group is made up of the following 18 companies; AG Barr plc, Associated British Foods, C&C Group, Dairy Crest, Diageo, Fuller Smith & Turner, 

Glanbia, Greencore, Greene King, Marston’s, Nichols, Origin Enterprises, Premier Foods, Reckitt Benckiser, SABMiller, Smith & Nephew, Tate and Lyle, Wetherspoon.

59 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governancegovernance annual report on remuneration continued

Directors’ shareholding requirements and interests in shares (subject to audit)
The table below sets out the shareholding and requirements as at 27 September 2015. A shareholding requirement of 200% of salary for the 
CEO and 100% for the CFO applies. The CEO was appointed to role in February 2013 and therefore currently has a shareholding of 42% of 
salary. As such he may not sell any vested shares from the company LTIPs (except to settle taxes and the payment of exercise prices) until 
the shareholding requirement has been satisfied. The CFO has a shareholding in the company of 461% which is in excess of the requirement.

Interest in shares in the Company as at 27 September 2015

Ordinary shares

Total shares

% of salary1

34,267

245,409

53,695

14,696

-

11,393

10,870

-

10,000

42%

461%

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Performance 
shares

Subject to 
performance 
conditions

333,565

194,319

Subject to 
performance 
conditions

838,501

465,672

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Share options

Vested but  
unexercised

Exercised in  
the period

159,903

504,740

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Simon Litherland

John Gibney 

Gerald Corbett

Joanne Averiss 

John Daly3

Ben Gordon 

Bob Ivell 

Silvia Lagnado4

Ian McHoul 

Notes:
1. Based on 12-month average share price of 702.8p and 100% of salary as at 27 September 2015.
2.  In the period from 28 September 2015 to 24 November 2015, there has been no change in the Directors’ interests above other than through the monthly purchases in 

October 2015 and November 2015 of partnership and matching shares under the Share Incentive Plan.

3. John Daly was appointed on 27 January 2015.
4. Silvia Lagnado resigned on 31 July 2015.

Performance graph and table 
The graph below shows the Total Shareholder Return (TSR) for Britvic plc and the FTSE 250 excluding investment trusts over the six year 
period ended 27 September 2015. The table overleaf shows total remuneration for the Chief Executive over the same period. 

Britvic’s historical TSR performance growth in the value of a hypothetical £100 

FTSE 250 excluding investment trusts

Britvic

£300

£250

£200

£150

£100

£50

£0

27 Sept 2009

03 Oct 2010

02 Oct 2011

30 Sept 2012

29 Sept 2013

28 Sept 2014 

27 Sep 2015

The committee considers the FTSE 250 (excluding Investment Trust Index) is a relevant index for total shareholder return as it represents a 
broad equity index in which the company is a constituent member.

60   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

governance annual report on remuneration continued

Remuneration history for Chief Executive from 2010 to 2015

£’000

Simon Litherland total single figure of 
remuneration

Paul Moody total single figure of 
remuneration

2010

n/a

2011

n/a

2012

n/a

2013

2014

2015

1,114.6

1,964.3

2,958.7

1,955.3

1,819.7

670.1

1,412.6

n/a

n/a

Bonus (% of maximum)

95%

0%

0%

LTIP (% of maximum)

100%
(ESOP 100%
PSP 100%)

89.6%
(ESOP 86%
PSP 91%)

0%
(ESOP 0%
PSP 0%)

72.2%

53.3%

63.6%
(ESOP 69.0%
PSP 50%)

100%
(ESOP 100%
PSP 100%)

98.6% 
for Simon 
Litherland
0% for 
Paul Moody

n/a for 
Simon
Litherland 
0% for 
Paul Moody
(ESOP 0%
PSP 0%)

Percentage change in remuneration for CEO
The table below shows how the percentage change in the Chief Executive’s salary, benefits and bonus between 2014 and 2015 compared 
with the percentage change in the average of each of those components for all full-time equivalent employees based in Great Britain (GB). 
The GB employee workforce was chosen as a suitable comparator group as the CEO is based in GB (albeit with a global role and 
responsibilities) and pay changes across the group vary widely depending on local market conditions.

Element

Base salary

Taxable benefits

Bonus

Chief Executive
% increase

GB employees
% increase

3.4%

7.1%

2.3%

4.2%

(22.4%)

(58.6)%

Relative importance of spend on pay 
The following chart sets out this information as it applies to the company, comparing figures for the year under review and the previous year. 
Profit after tax and capital expenditure are also shown below for context. For the purposes of this table capital expenditure is defined as net 
cash flow from the purchase and sale of both tangible and intangible assets: 

Distribution statement

% change

6.3%

FY14

FY15

% change

12.6%

FY14

FY15

x
e
p
a
C

r
e
t
f
a
t
fi
o
r
P

1
x
a
t

£57.3m

£60.9m

£99.9m

£112.5m

d
n
e
d
v
D

i

i

t
u
o
y
a
p

% change

13.0%

FY14

FY15

£46.8m

£52.9m

s
e
i
r
a
a
S

l

&
s
e
g
a
W

% change

(0.6%)

FY14

FY15

£127.9m

£127.1m

Notes: 
1. The profit after tax is before the deduction of exceptional and other items.

61 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governance 
 
 
 
 
governance annual report on remuneration continued

Payments made to past Directors (subject to audit)
No payments were made to past Directors during the year.

Payments made for loss of office (subject to audit)
No payments for loss of office were made during the year. 

The agreed treatment of John Gibney’s remuneration as a result of his departure in April 2016 is set out on page 50 in this report. Details of 
this will also be included in the 2016 Directors’ Remuneration Report. 

Directors’ contracts 
Details of the Executives’ service contracts and the Non-Executive Directors’ letters of appointment are set out below. All directors’ service 
contracts and letters of appointment are available for inspection at the company’s registered office and at the AGM up until the start of the 
meeting.

Directors

Simon Litherland

John Gibney

Gerald Corbett

Joanne Averiss

John Daly¹

Ben Gordon

Bob Ivell

Silvia Lagnado2

Ian McHoul

Effective date 
of contract 

14 February 2013

14 December 2005

14 December 2014

14 December 2014

 27 January 2015

16 April 2014

14 December 2014

 2 June 2014

10 March 2014

Unexpired term 
(approx. months)

12

12

24

24

28

16

24

-

18

Executive Directors’ contracts operate on a 12-month rolling basis.

Notes: 
1. John Daly was appointed on 27 January 2015. 
2. Silvia Lagnado resigned on 31 July 2015. 

Statement of voting outcomes at general meeting
The table below sets out the votes received for the binding vote on the Directors Remuneration Policy and the advisory vote on the Directors 
Remuneration Report at the AGM in 2015. 

Directors Remuneration Policy

 188,539,826 (97.93%)

3,994,950 (2.07%)

Directors’ Remuneration Report 2014

190,958,650 (99.05%)

1,828,072 (0.95%)

Votes for

Votes against

Withheld

586,370 

334,424

This Directors’ Remuneration Report will be subject to an advisory vote at the 2016 AGM. 

Correction to 2014 Directors’ Remuneration Report
In the 2014 remuneration report, the ROIC targets for the PSP granted in December 2013 were misstated as 21.5% to 22.3% (threshold to 
maximum performance). The correct targets (against which the performance of the 2014 PSP will be assessed and as originally disclosed in 
the 2013 remuneration report) are 23.4% to 24.2% (threshold to maximum performance). 

Directors’ Remuneration Policy
For reference, the following is an extract from Britvic’s Remuneration Policy approved at the AGM held on 27 January 2015. The full policy 
can be found in the 2014 remuneration report on www.britvic.com. 

There is no intention to revise the policy more frequently than every three years. However the committee will review the Remuneration Policy 
annually in order to ensure it remains aligned with the company’s strategy, appropriately positioned against the market and aligned with 
corporate governance requirements.

In the event a change to the policy is required, the committee will consult with Britvic’s major shareholders prior to submitting the policy for 
approval by all shareholders.

Please note that because the table on page 63 is an extract of the Remuneration Policy approved by shareholders at the 2015 AGM. As 
such, some of the text relates specifically to the 2015 financial year. 

62   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

 
governance annual report on remuneration continued

Our overall approach to remuneration
The principal objective of our executive Remuneration Policy is to support a performance-based culture that will help drive the successful 
execution of our business strategy. We aim to provide competitive levels of remuneration opportunity for our senior Executives and leadership 
team, a significant portion of which is in the form of variable pay.

In setting the Remuneration Policy the committee carefully considered corporate governance best practice and the company’s environmental 
and social responsibilities. 

Remuneration Policy table
The table below sets out the Remuneration Policy the committee will continue to apply to Directors in 2016 following its approval at the 2015 
AGM.

Operation 

Maximum opportunity  
and payment at target

Performance  
measures

n/a

Element and  
link to strategy

Base Salary 

Element of fixed pay that 
reflects the individual’s 
role, position, experience 
and contribution to the 
group.

Benefits

To provide market typical 
benefits which are valued 
by recipients and allow 
Executives to carry out 
their duties efficiently.

Base salaries are paid in cash and 
reviewed annually, with any changes 
normally taking effect from 1 January.

Out of cycle reviews may be conducted 
if considered appropriate by the 
Committee.

Base salaries are set with reference to 
comparator groups made up of similar 
sized UK listed companies (both pan-
sector and from the food and beverages 
sector).

The Committee also has reference 
to international food and beverages 
companies.

Alternative peer groups may be 
considered depending on the location 
and domicile of Directors based outside 
of the UK.

Benefits and allowances include but 
are not limited to: annual car benefit 
(or allowance), membership of the 
company’s private medical healthcare 
plan, and the ability to ‘buy’ or ’sell’ 
holiday under the company’s flexible 
benefits plan, payment of up to two 
subscriptions to recognised professional 
bodies, and life assurance.

There is also a relocation policy which 
provides for reasonable expenses to 
be paid subject to the Committee’s 
approval.

Other benefits may be provided from 
time to time if considered reasonable 
and appropriate by the Committee and 
will be explained in the Annual Report on 
Remuneration for the relevant year.

Whilst there is no prescribed formulaic 
maximum, annual increases will normally be in 
the context of overall business performance 
and the level awarded to the general GB-
based workforce.

Higher increases may be made where 
there have been significant changes in the 
responsibility and accountability in a role, 
where there are large variances to the market, 
for example in the case of a new Executive 
Director appointed on a salary below the 
market median, or where there is a significant 
change in the relationship of the company 
relative to the peer group. Any significant 
increases will be fully explained.

The maximum levels of benefit provision are:

n/a

•   Provision of a company car or car allowance 
paid in cash. The company car rental cost 
would not exceed £10,800 and a cash 
allowance would not exceed £10,634 per 
annum

•   Private medical insurance on a private basis

•   The value of any professional subscriptions 
paid by the company may vary but would 
not be excessive

•   Life assurance cover of 4 times base salary

The value of any relocation allowance provided 
is dependent on the relevant circumstances 
when the need arises. However the Committee 
would not pay more than necessary in such 
situations. 

Up to 5 days holiday may be sold at a prorated 
value of the individual’s salary.

63 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governancegovernance annual report on remuneration continued

Maximum opportunity  
and payment at target

For the defined contribution 
pension, the maximum annual 
contribution is:

•  28% of base salary for the CEO

•  25% of base salary for the CFO

For the cash allowance, the 
maximum contributions reflect 
those under the DC pension less 
a deduction to ensure the cash 
allowance is broadly cost neutral 
to the company from a National 
Insurance perspective.

A discounted one-off cash 
settlement of the BETUS may be 
offered to an eligible member of 
the legacy defined benefit plan 
who is leaving or retiring from the 
company. 

Target and maximum opportunities 
are:

•   70% and 140% of base salary 

for the CEO

•  60% and 120% for the CFO

The level of payment at threshold 
is set on an annual basis but will 
not exceed 25% of the maximum 
award value.

Element and  
link to strategy

Pension

Supports a market-aligned 
compensation package 
and assists participants 
plan for retirement.

Annual Bonus 

To motivate employees 
and incentivise delivery 
of annual performance 
targets.

Operation 

Pension provision is provided in 
the form of a defined contribution 
(DC) pension or a cash allowance 
where the individual opts out of 
the pension scheme as a result of 
exceeding the tax efficient pension 
savings limits set by HMRC.

A legacy defined benefit pension 
and Executive Top Up Scheme 
(BETUS), a securitised unfunded 
unregistered pension scheme, 
closed to future accrual on 10 
April 2011. Current Executive 
Directors have accrued benefits 
under these arrangements.

Annual bonuses are paid after the 
year end of the financial year to 
which they relate.

Targets are set at the beginning of 
the performance year which runs 
from the start to the end of each 
financial period. 

The committee has the discretion 
to adjust the bonus outcome if the 
pure application of a formula is 
not felt to produce an appropriate 
result in light of overall underlying 
performance. In particular the 
committee has the discretion to 
adjust payments downwards if 
profits have fallen. Any adjustment 
made using this discretion will be 
explained.

Malus and clawback may be 
applied in respect of the bonus 
in certain situations where the 
payment of the bonus resulted 
from a material misstatement in 
the company’s accounts or an 
error in the assessment of the 
satisfaction of a performance 
condition.

Performance  
measures

n/a 

The specific measures, targets 
and weighting may vary from year 
to year in order to align with the 
group’s strategy, but always with 
a substantial proportion based on 
key financial metrics.

For 2014/15 the annual bonus will 
be based 100% on key financial 
metrics.

The performance conditions are 
set annually based on the metrics 
the committee feels are most 
appropriate for the business and 
create value for shareholders. 
These may include, but are not 
limited to, profit, revenue and cash 
flow metrics. Strategic KPIs may 
be chosen to support particular 
objectives for the year. 

Annual bonus targets are set with 
reference to internal budgets and 
analyst consensus forecasts, 
with maximum payout requiring 
performance well ahead of budget.

64   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

governance annual report on remuneration continued

Element and  
link to strategy

Operation 

Maximum opportunity  
and payment at target

Performance  
measures

Long-term Incentives 
– Executive Share 
Option Plan (ESOP) 
and Performance 
Share Plan (PSP)

To motivate and 
incentivise delivery of 
sustained, long-term 
performance and 
encourage share price 
and dividend growth 
over the performance 
period of the awards.

The Committee believes 
that long-term incentive 
plan measures should 
be simple, aligned to 
sustainable long-term 
shareholder value 
creation as well as 
providing line of sight 
to management so that 
they are meaningful and 
incentivising. 

ESOP - The maximum 
opportunities are:

•   300% of base salary 

for the CEO

•   250% of base salary 

for the CFO

PSP - The maximum 
opportunities are:

•   150% of base salary 

for the CEO

•   100% of base salary 

for the CFO

Under the ESOP 
and PSP 20% of the 
maximum award vests 
for achieving threshold 
performance increasing 
to 100% of the 
maximum opportunity 
vesting for achieving 
maximum performance 
on a straight line basis.

ESOP - Allows for 
annual grants of market 
value options. Awards 
vest after three years, 
subject to performance 
conditions. Options 
expire 10 years following 
the grant date.

PSP - Allows for annual 
grants of performance 
share awards. Awards 
vest after three years, 
subject to performance 
conditions. 

Under the PSP 
participants are entitled 
to dividend equivalents 
between award and 
vesting in respect of 
awards that vest.

Malus and clawback 
may be applied in 
respect of LTIP awards in 
certain situations where 
the vesting of an LTIP 
award resulted from a 
material misstatement 
in the company’s 
accounts or an error 
in the assessment of 
the satisfaction of a 
performance condition.

The Committee chooses performance metrics 
measured over three years that support the company’s 
long-term strategic priorities, provide a direct link with 
shareholder value and ensure a clear line of sight for 
participants between performance and reward. 

For ESOP grants made in 2014/15, performance will be 
measured using an EPS performance condition.

For PSP grants made in 2014/2015, 75% of 
performance will be measured using the same EPS 
performance condition as for the ESOP, with the 
remaining 25% of performance measured using relative 
TSR. ROIC over the performance period will also be 
considered by the committee in determining the level of 
vesting at the end of the period. 

EPS growth is a key measure of our success in growing 
value for shareholders over time. The setting of the EPS 
targets takes into account analyst consensus forecasts, 
internal projections, and the levels of performance 
required over the long-term to deliver absolute value 
appreciation for shareholders.

Relative TSR strongly links share price growth and 
dividends to the rewards Executives receive. The relative 
nature of the measure ensures participants only receive 
awards if outperformance is achieved against a basket 
of investment comparables.

ROIC is an important financial discipline to ensure 
growth in the business continues to be value enhancing 
over the long-term.

The committee may adjust the performance measures 
for future awards and the weighting of these measures 
if it feels this will create greater alignment with business 
and strategic priorities.

A significant change to the measures used would 
only be adopted following consultation with major 
shareholders.

Shareholding 
guidelines

To encourage long-term 
share ownership by the 
Executive Directors so 
that interests are aligned 
with other long-term 
investors.

Executive Directors are 
to acquire and then hold 
a certain shareholding 
from the date of their 
appointment to the 
board. 

Shareholdings are set at 
200% of base salary for 
the CEO and 100% for 
the CFO from the date 
of appointment to the 
board. 

n/a 

The Committee will 
monitor progress on 
this requirement on an 
annual basis.

Until this holding is 
acquired, the Executive 
Directors may not sell 
any shares received 
through the long-term 
incentives operated by 
the company other than 
to finance the cost of 
exercising share options 
and any tax liabilities 
arising from the vesting 
of long-term incentive 
plans, unless approved 
by the Committee (for 
example, in cases of 
financial hardship).

65 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governancegovernance annual report on remuneration continued

Element and  
link to strategy

All-employee  
Share Plans

To allow Executives 
to participate in 
share plans on the 
same terms as other 
employees.

Chairman and  
Non-Executive 
Director (NED) fees

To attract and retain 
experienced and 
skilled NEDs.

Operation 

Maximum opportunity  
and payment at target

Performance  
measures

The Committee has the 
discretion to limit the free share 
awards in light of performance 
against internal profit targets.

•   Free share awards, up to a 

maximum of 4% of earnings, 
capped at £3,600 per annum 

•   Partnership shares, up to 

£1,800 per year

•   Matching shares, on a one for 
one basis up to a maximum of 
£650 per year

The maximum fee level for each 
NED is set by reference to fees 
paid in UK-listed companies of a 
similar size and scope to Britvic.

n/a

Any planned increases in fees 
will take into account general 
increases across the wider 
employee population.

Executive Directors may participate in 
the Britvic Share Incentive Plan, which is 
an all-employee HMRC approved share 
plan open to employees based in GB. 
The plan has three parts, all of which the 
Directors participate in:

•   Free share awards, which are made 
annually subject to the company’s 
performance and at the discretion of 
the Committee

•   Partnership shares, which are 

purchased by employees through 
payroll deductions

•   Matching shares, which are provided 

by the employer to individuals 
purchasing partnership shares

The Committee reserves the right to use 
its discretion to amend the operation of 
the all-employee share plan from time to 
time.

The fees paid to the Chairman are 
determined by the Committee, while the 
fees of the NEDs are determined by the 
Board with affected persons absenting 
themselves from the discussions as 
appropriate.

Annual fees are paid to the Chairman 
and other NEDs on a periodic basis. 

Additional fees are paid to NEDs 
who are members of and who chair 
a board committee and to the Senior 
Independent Director (SID).

NED fee levels are annually reviewed by 
the board (for NEDs) and the committee 
(for the Chairman). Any increases to fees 
are normally effective from 1 January. 

NEDs do not participate in company 
incentive arrangements, and do not 
receive any form of pension provision.

NEDs will be reimbursed by the company 
for all reasonable expenses incurred in 
performing their duties of office.

66   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

governance annual report on remuneration continued

Remuneration Policy notes
Differences in Remuneration Policy for all 
employees
All employees are entitled to base salary and benefits and may also 
receive bonus, pension and share awards the value of which vary 
according to the individual’s seniority and level of responsibility.

Share awards made prior to the implementation of 
approved Remuneration Policy
Unvested ESOP and PSP awards will continue to pay out in 
accordance with the relevant plan rules. Any payments under these 
plans will be disclosed in the Annual Report on Remuneration as 
required by the regulations. A summary of the operation of the 
outstanding awards is set out below:

Element 

Summary of  
operation 

ESOP awards made 
prior to the 2014/15 
financial year

PSP awards made 
prior to the 2014/15 
financial year

Maximum PSP 
opportunity is 100% of 
salary for the CEO and 
CFO. ESOP is as shown in 
the main policy table.

Threshold payout is 
25% of the maximum 
opportunity increasing to 
maximum on a straight-line 
basis.

Performance 
measures

100% EPS 
growth 

50% relative 
TSR

50% ROIC

Committee discretion
In addition to the discretion set out in this policy report, the 
Committee may apply discretion in operating the Remuneration 
Policy in certain matters including the following:

• The timing of any payments
• The impact of a change of control or restructuring
• Any adjustments to performance conditions or awards required as 
a result of a corporate event (such as a transaction, corporate 
restructuring event, special dividend or rights issue)

• The operation of malus and clawback provisions
• Minor administrative matters to improve the efficiency of operation 

of the plans or to comply with local tax law or regulation.

Discretion regarding the treatment of leavers is set out in service 
contracts and the policy on the payment for loss of office section.

The Committee also reserves the right to make a remuneration 
payment that originated from before the individual became an 
Executive Director.

In relation to the annual bonus and LTIP plans, the Committee 
retains the ability to amend the performance conditions and/or 
measures in respect of any award or payment if one or more event(s) 
have occurred which would lead the Committee to consider that it 
would be appropriate to do so, provided that such an amendment 
would not be materially less difficult to meet.

If the committee used any of the discretions set out above these 
would, where relevant, be disclosed in the next Annual Remuneration 
Report and the views of major shareholders may also be sought.

Statement of consideration of employment 
conditions elsewhere in Britvic
The Committee is kept regularly updated on pay and conditions 
across the group and has reference to average pay increases and 
the average salaries for the wider employee population. These 
metrics are considered by the Committee when reviewing the 
remuneration for Executive Directors.

The company did not consult with employees when drawing up the 
Remuneration Policy.

Statement of consideration of shareholder views
The Committee is committed to ongoing dialogue with the company’s 
shareholder base. This can take a variety of forms, such as: 

•   Meetings with major shareholders to consider significant potential 

changes to policy or specific issues of interest to particular 
shareholder groups

•   Other dialogue to update shareholders and take their feedback on 

planned refinements to arrangements.

In drawing up the Remuneration Policy approved at the last AGM, 
the Chairman of the Committee wrote to Britvic’s major shareholders 
and key institutional representative bodies and held several follow up 
meetings. The views expressed by our shareholders during this 
process have been considered in the development of the 
Remuneration Policy.

67 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governancegovernance annual report on remuneration continued

Approach to remuneration on recruitment
When hiring a new Executive Director, or making internal promotions to the Board, the Committee will in principle apply the same policy as 
for existing Executive Directors, as detailed in the Remuneration Policy. The rationale for the package offered will be explained in the next 
Annual Remuneration Report. 

For internal promotions any commitments made prior to appointment may continue to be honoured as the Executive is transitioned to the 
new remuneration arrangements.

Our recruitment Remuneration Policy aims to give the Committee sufficient flexibility to secure the appointment and promotion of high-calibre 
Executives to strengthen the management team and secure the skill sets to deliver our strategic objectives. The details are set out in the 
table below:

Area 

Base salary

Policy and operation 

•   Base salary would be set at an appropriate level to recruit the best candidate based on their skills, 

experience and current remuneration. In some instances it may be appropriate to recruit on a salary 
at the lower end of the typical market range and progress salary increases above the typical rate of 
increases provided to the wider employee workforce to align with performance and policy over time

Benefits and pension

•   Benefits and pension would be in line with normal policy and may include, where appropriate, 

relocation benefits or other benefits reflective of normal market practice in the territory in which the 
Executive Director is employed

Annual bonus

•  Awards would be made under the annual bonus plan in line with the Remuneration Policy

Normal LTIP awards  
(ESOP and PSP)

Additional LTIP awards 
(ESOP and PSP)

Replacement awards

Service contracts

•  Maximum opportunity would not exceed 140% of base salary

•  Awards would be made under the LTIP plans in line with the Remuneration Policy

•  Under the ESOP, maximum opportunity would not exceed 300% of base salary

•  Under the PSP, maximum opportunity would not exceed 150% of base salary

•   On the recruitment of a director the Committee may make a one-off performance linked award under 
the ESOP and PSP subject to the below limits. Under the ESOP an award of up to 500% of base 
salary may be made in a year to an Executive (inclusive of the normal annual award that would be 
granted to an Executive)

•   Under the PSP an award of up to 200% of base salary may be made in a year to an Executive 

(inclusive of the normal annual award that would be granted to an Executive)

•   The Committee will normally seek to avoid using replacement awards. However where, in exceptional 
circumstances, replacement awards are considered by the Committee to be necessary, they are not 
subject to a formal maximum, although would be designed to reflect only the value of remuneration 
forgone by the recruited Executive or less. In making any buyout awards the Committee would take 
into account any additional LTIP awards made as set out above

•   The Committee may agree a contractual notice period with the Executive which initially exceeds twelve 
months, as applies to other Executives, particularly if it is necessary to attract Executives who will be 
required to relocate their families

•   This will reduce to a twelve month rolling notice period once the individual is 12 months from the end 

of their initial notice period

68   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

governance annual report on remuneration continued

Service contracts and policy on payment for loss of office 
The table below sets out items that are contained within the service contracts for the Executive Directors. It is the policy that these will apply 
to any future Director.

Item

Policy

Notice period

•  12 months if given by the company

•  6 months if given by the Executive

Remuneration

•  Base salary and pension

Benefits

•  Provision of company car or cash alternative

•  Eligibility to participate in the annual bonus and LTIP and other share incentive plans

Contractual termination 
payment

•  Payment of professional subscriptions for up to two recognised professional bodies

•  Eligibility for private medical insurance

•   The company may terminate the Executive’s employment at any time and with immediate effect and 
will pay the Executive an after tax sum in lieu of notice equal to the basic salary which the Executive 
would have been entitled to receive during their notice period. A payment may also be made in 
respect of outstanding untaken holiday entitlement accrued up to and including the date of termination

•   Payments in lieu of notice would be paid monthly and are subject to mitigation if the Executive obtains 

alternative income during the period

•   If the Executive is terminated for reasons such as gross misconduct no payment in lieu of notice will be due

•   The Committee may at its discretion put the Executive on garden leave for any period provided that base 
salary and contractual benefits are paid during this period. The Committee would only use this discretion 
when appropriate and would seek to minimise the cost to the company if such discretion was required

Non-Executive Directors

•  The NEDs do not have service contracts but instead have letters of appointment for a three-year term

•  On termination NEDs shall only be entitled to accrued fees as at the date of termination

In the event of a settlement agreement, the Committee may agree payments it considers reasonable in settlement of legal claims. This may 
include reasonable reimbursement of professional fees in connection with such agreements.

The table below sets out details of how an Executive Directors incentives and pension would be treated on termination. Items of fixed pay are 
detailed in the previous table.

Incentives

Annual bonus

ESOP and PSP

Treatment

•   In the case of retirement with the agreement of the Committee, redundancy, death in service, or such 

other reason as the Committee may in its discretion approve, the bonus will be pro-rated to the date of 
termination and paid on the normal payment date

•  Executives leaving for any other reason will normally forfeit their awards

•   Awards for Executives who are treated as a ‘good leaver’ under the rules of the LTIPs (reasons include ill 
health, injury, disability, redundancy, change of control, retirement with the consent of the company and 
any other reason at the committee’s discretion) will vest at the normal vesting date unless the Committee 
determines the awards should vest at an alternative date taking into consideration the extent to which 
any performance conditions have been satisfied and time served over the performance period

•  If the Executive is not a ‘good leaver’, the awards will lapse immediately on termination

•   If the Executive ceases to be a director as a result of death, awards will vest as soon as practicable 

taking into consideration the extent to which any performance conditions have been satisfied and time 
served over the performance period

Pension

•   The Committee may consider offering a discounted one-off cash settlement to a member who is 

leaving the company to reduce the company’s balance sheet exposure to the BETUS liability. This is 
normally used at retirement

•   All members of the defined benefits section of the pension plan (Plan) may benefit from the Enhanced 
Early Retirement Facility (‘EERF’) which allows the Plan members to retire within five years of reaching 
normal pension age without a reduction in their pension. The EERF includes benefits payable from 
BETUS and is non-contractual. Continuation of the EERF formed part of the agreement with the Plan 
Trustee on the closure of the defined benefit section of the Plan. The company has given notice to all 
of the Plan members that the EERF will be withdrawn by 5 April 2016

Other appointments 
The Executive Directors are not permitted to have any engagement with any other company during the term of their appointment without the 
prior written consent of the board. 

On behalf of the board 

Bob Ivell  
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee

69 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governancedirectors’ report

The directors present their report and the 
audited consolidated financial statements 
of the company and the group for the 52 
weeks ended 27 September 2015.

Business review and future development
A review of the group’s operations during the year and its plans for 
the future is given in the Chairman’s introduction, the Chief Executive 
Officer’s Review and the Chief Financial Officer’s Review between 
pages 2 and 21.

Details of the group’s business model and strategy are summarised 
between pages 8 and 11. 

Results and dividends 
The group’s profit before taxation attributable to the equity 
shareholders amounted to £137.6m (2014: £120.1m) and the profit 
after taxation amounted to £103.8m (2014: £89.7m).

An interim dividend of 6.7p (2014: 6.1p) per ordinary share was paid 
on 10 July 2015. 

The directors have proposed a final dividend of 16.3p (2014: 14.8p) 
per ordinary share payable on 5 February 2016 to shareholders on 
the register at the close of business on 4 December 2015, giving a 
total dividend in respect of 2015 of 23.0p (2014: 20.9p). 

2016 annual general meeting
The AGM will be held at Nomura, One Angel Lane, London EC4R 
3AB at 11.00am on 27 January 2016. Details of the resolutions to 
be proposed at the AGM are set out in the separate circular which 
has been sent to all shareholders with this annual report.

Articles of association
The company’s articles may only be amended by a special resolution 
at a general meeting of shareholders. No amendments to the articles 
are being proposed at the AGM.

The articles give the directors power to appoint and replace 
directors. Under the terms of reference of the Nomination 
Committee, any appointment must be recommended by the 
Nomination Committee for approval by the board. The articles also 
require directors to retire and submit themselves for election to the 
first AGM following appointment and to retire at the AGM held in the 
third calendar year after election or last re-election, but to comply 
with the UK Corporate Governance Code all of the directors will 
submit themselves for election (John Daly and Mathew Dunn) or 
re-election at the AGM except for John Gibney who steps down 
from the board at the conclusion of the AGM. The biographical 
details of the directors are set out on pages 34 and 35 of this report. 

Directors’ interests 
The directors’ interests in ordinary shares of the company are shown 
within the Directors’ Remuneration Report on page 60. No director 
has any other interest in any shares or loan stock of any group 
company.

Other than Joanne Averiss, who is a director of a number of 
PepsiCo’s subsidiaries, no director was or is materially interested in 
any contract, other than his service contract, which was subsisting 
during or existing at the end of year and which was significant in 
relation to the group’s business. Further details of Joanne Averiss’ 
appointments are set out on page 35 in the Corporate Governance 
Report.

Directors’ liabilities
As at the date of this report, customary indemnities are in place 
under which the company has agreed, to the extent permitted by 
law and the company’s articles, to indemnify:

• The directors, in respect of all losses arising out of, or in 

connection with, the execution of their powers, duties and 
responsibilities as directors of the company or any of its 
subsidiaries; and 

• Directors of companies which are corporate trustees of the 

group’s pension schemes against liability incurred in connection 
with those companies’ activities as trustees of such schemes.

Directors 
The following were directors of the company during the year: Gerald 
Corbett, Simon Litherland, John Gibney, Joanne Averiss, John Daly 
(appointed 27 January 2015), Ben Gordon, Bob Ivell, Silvia Lagnado 
(resigned on 31 July 2015) and Ian McHoul. 

Directors’ remuneration
The Remuneration Committee, on behalf of the board, has adopted 
a policy that aims to attract and retain the directors needed to run 
the group effectively. The policy is contained within the Directors’ 
Remuneration Report on pages 48 to 69.  

Subject to company law and the company’s articles, the directors 
may exercise all of the powers of the company and may delegate 
their power and discretion to committees. The executive team is 
responsible for the day-to-day management of the group.

Employees
For full information on our employees, including the areas of learning 
and development, employee communication and engagement, 
health, safety and wellbeing and equal opportunities these are 
included in our Sustainable Business Review on pages 22 to 27.

70   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

governancegovernance directors’ report continued

Political donations
No political donations were made by the group and its subsidiaries 
(2014: nil).

The company is not aware of any agreements between shareholders 
that may result in restrictions on the transfer of securities and/or 
voting rights.

Greenhouse gas emissions
Details of the greenhouse gas emissions in tonnes of carbon dioxide 
equivalent (CO2e) for our office and manufacturing locations are set 
out in the Sustainable Business Review on page 25.

Major shareholders 
At 24 November 2015 the company has been notified, pursuant to 
DTR5 of the Financial Conduct Authority’s Disclosure and 
Transparency Rules, of the following notifiable voting rights in its 
ordinary share capital: 

Number of
ordinary 
shares

Percentage  
of voting  
rights

Nature  
of holding

12,873,383

4.935%

Direct

12,522,359

5.07%

Direct

TIAA-CREF 
Investment 
Management, LLC

APG Asset 
Management N.V.

Kames Capital

12,295,181

4.97% Direct/Indirect

Standard Life 
Investments Ltd

12,294,602

4.708% Direct/Indirect

PepsiCo, Inc.

11,813,032

4.88%

Direct

Share capital
The company’s issued share capital comprised a single class of shares 
divided into ordinary shares of 20 pence each (referred to as “ordinary 
shares”). An equity placing of 12,361,455 new ordinary shares was 
undertaken by the company on 23 July 2015 for the purpose of funding 
the Ebba acquisition. Full details of the ordinary shares in issue are given 
in note 21 to the financial statements on page 105.

Rights and restrictions attaching to shares
On a show of hands at a general meeting of the company, every 
holder of ordinary shares present in person and entitled to vote shall 
have one vote, and on a poll, every member present in person or by 
proxy and entitled to vote shall have one vote for every ordinary 
share held. Any notice of general meeting issued by the company 
will specify deadlines for exercising voting rights and in appointing a 
proxy or proxies in relation to resolutions to be proposed at the 
general meeting. All proxy votes are counted and the numbers for, 
against or withheld in relation to each resolution are announced at 
the general meeting and published on the company’s website after 
the meeting.

There are no restrictions on the transfer of ordinary shares in the 
company other than:

• Certain restrictions which may from time to time be imposed by 
laws and regulations (for example, insider trading laws); and

• Pursuant to the Listing Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority and 
Britvic’s share dealing code whereby certain employees of the group 
require the approval of the company to deal in its ordinary shares.

Shares held in employee benefit trusts
Under the rules of the Britvic Share Incentive Plan (‘the Plan’) eligible 
employees are entitled to acquire shares in the company. Plan 
shares are held in trust for participants by Equiniti Share Plan 
Trustees Limited (‘the Trustees’). Voting rights are exercised by the 
Trustees on receipt of participants’ instructions. If a participant does 
not submit an instruction to the Trustees no vote is registered. In 
addition, the Trustees do not vote on any unawarded shares held 
under the Plan as surplus assets. As at 24 November 2015, the 
Trustees held 0.08% (2014: 0.19%) of the issued share capital of the 
company.

Similarly, if First Names (Jersey) Limited, as Trustee of the Britvic 
Employee Benefit Trust (‘the Trustee’), holds ordinary shares on trust 
for the benefit of the executive directors, senior executives and 
managers of the group, a dividend waiver is in place. The Trustee is 
not permitted to vote on any unvested shares held in the trust unless 
expressly directed to do so by the company. The Trustees held 0.5% 
of the issued share capital as at 24 November 2015 (2014: nil).

Change of control provisions
There are no agreements between the company and its directors or 
employees providing for compensation for loss of office or 
employment (whether through resignation, purported redundancy or 
otherwise) that occurs because of a takeover bid. The company’s 
banking arrangements are terminable upon a change of control of 
the company. Certain other indebtedness becomes repayable if a 
change of control leads to a downgrade in the credit rating of the 
company. The company’s agreements with PepsiCo are terminable 
upon a change of control. Further details of these agreements can 
be found on page 28. 

Financial risk management
It is the group’s objective to manage its financial risk so as to 
minimise the adverse fluctuations in the financial markets on the 
group’s reported profitability and cash flows. The policies for 
managing each of the group’s main financial risk areas are referred 
to in the Treasury Management section of the Chief Financial 
Officer’s review on pages 17 to 21 and in more detail within  
note 25 of the consolidated financial statements.

Research and development
The group carries out research and development necessary to 
support its principal activities as a manufacturer and distributor  
of soft drinks.

Post balance sheet event
On 30 September 2015, the group acquired 100% of the issued 
share capital of Empresa Brasileira de Bebidas e Alimentos SA 
(Ebba), a soft drinks company in Brazil. Further details on the 
acquisition can be found in note 33 to the financial statements on 
page 127.

71 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report governancegovernance directors’ report continued

Directors’ statement as to disclosure of 
information to auditors
So far as each director is aware, there is no relevant audit 
information (as defined by the Companies Act 2006) of which the 
auditors are unaware. Each director has taken all steps that ought to 
be taken by a director to make themself aware of, and to establish, 
that the auditors are aware of any relevant audit information.

A copy of the financial statements is placed on the company’s 
website. The maintenance and integrity of this website is the 
responsibility of the directors. The work carried out by the auditors 
does not involve consideration of these matters and, accordingly, the 
auditors accept no responsibility for any changes that may have 
occurred to the financial statements since they were initially 
presented on the website.

Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and 
dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in 
other jurisdictions.

Going concern 
In presenting the financial statements on a going concern basis, the 
directors have considered both the business activities and principal 
risks and uncertainties as set out in the Strategic Report on pages  
2 to 29. In addition, the directors have considered the following 
factors: the group’s ability to generate cash flows, the financial 
resources available to it, headroom under bank covenants, and 

exposure to credit risk. Based on the group’s cash flow forecasts 
and projections, the board is satisfied that the group will be able to 
operate within the level of its facilities for the foreseeable future. For 
this reason, the group continues to apply the going concern basis in 
preparing its financial statements. 

Auditors
Ernst & Young LLP have indicated their willingness to accept 
re-appointment as auditors of the company and a resolution 
proposing their re-appointment is contained in the Notice of AGM 
and will be put to the shareholders at the forthcoming AGM. 

By order of the Board

Clare Thomas 
Company Secretary

24 November 2015

making  
life’s everyday 
moments more 
enjoyable

72   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

statement of directors’ 
responsibilities

The directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of 
the company’s website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing 
the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ 
from legislation in other jurisdictions.

Each of the directors, whose names and functions are listed on 
page 34 and 35, confirms that:
• To the best of their knowledge, the consolidated financial 

statements and the company financial statements, which have 
been prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB 
and IFRS as adopted by the EU and UK GAAP respectively, give a 
true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and 
profit of the company on a consolidated and individual basis
• To the bet of their knowledge, the Strategic Report contained in 
the Annual Report and Accounts includes a fair review of the 
development and performance of the business and the position of 
the company on a consolidated and individual basis, together with 
a description of the principal risks and uncertainties that it faces 

• They consider the Annual Report and Accounts, taken as a 

whole, is fair, balanced and understandable and provides the 
information necessary for shareholders to assess the company’s 
performance, business model and strategy.

Simon Litherland 
Chief Executive Officer 

John Gibney 
Chief Financial Officer

24 November 2015 

24 November 2015

The directors are responsible for preparing 
the Annual Report and Accounts, including 
the consolidated financial statements 
and the company financial statements, 
the directors’ report, including the 
remuneration report and the strategic 
report, in accordance with applicable law 
and regulations.
Company law requires the Directors to prepare financial statements 
for each financial year. Under that law the Directors have prepared 
the consolidated financial statements in accordance with International 
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the EU, and the 
Company financial statements and the Remuneration Report in 
accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting 
Standards (United Kingdom generally accepted accounting practice, 
UK GAAP). In preparing the consolidated financial statements, the 
Directors have also elected to comply with IFRS, issued by the 
International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). Under company 
law the Directors must not approve the financial statements unless 
they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs 
of the Company on a consolidated and individual basis and for the 
profit or loss of the Company on a consolidated basis for that period.

In preparing these financial statements, the directors are required to:
• Select suitable accounting policies and then apply them 

consistently

• Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent 
state that the consolidated financial statements comply with IFRS 
as issued by the IASB and IFRS adopted by the EU and, with 
regard to Company financial statements, that applicable UK 
Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material 
departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements
• Prepare the consolidated financial statements and Company 
financial statements on a going concern basis unless it is 
inappropriate to presume that the Company, on a consolidated 
and individual basis, will continue in business, in which case there 
should be supporting assumptions or qualifications as necessary.

The directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting 
records that are sufficient to show and explain the Company’s 
transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the 
financial position of the company on a consolidated and individual 
basis, and to enable them to ensure that the consolidated financial 
statements comply with the Companies Act 2006 and Article 4 of 
the IAS Regulation and the company financial statements and the 
Remuneration Report comply with the Companies Act 2006. They 
are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the company and 
its subsidiaries and hence for taking reasonable steps for the 
prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

73 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic reportgovernance governance Consolidated statement of comprehensive income/(expense)

 Independent auditor’s report to the members of Britvic plc

76 
79  Consolidated income statement
80 
81  Consolidated balance sheet
82  Consolidated statement of cash flows 
83 
84 
128  Company balance sheet
129  Notes to the company financial statements 

 Consolidated statement of changes in equity
 Notes to the consolidated financial statements

74   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

75 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements

independent auditor’s report to 
the members of Britvic plc  

Opinion on financial statements

In our opinion:

•  The financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of 

the group’s and of the parent company’s affairs as at 27 
September 2015 and of the group’s profit for the 52-week period 
then ended;

•  The group financial statements have been properly prepared in 
accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards 
(IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union; 

•  The parent company financial statements have been properly 

prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted 
Accounting Practice; and

•  The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with 
the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 and, as regards the 
group financial statements, Article 4 of the IAS Regulation. 

What we have audited
We have audited the financial statements of Britvic plc for the  
52-week period ended 27 September 2015 which comprise the 
consolidated income statement, the consolidated statement of 
comprehensive income/(expense), the consolidated balance sheet, 
the consolidated statement of cash flows, the consolidated 
statement of changes in equity, the company balance sheet and the 
related notes. The financial reporting framework that has been 
applied in the preparation of the group financial statements is 
applicable law and IFRSs as adopted by the European Union. The 
financial reporting framework that has been applied in the 
preparation of the parent company financial statements is applicable 
law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom 
Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

This report is made solely to the company’s members, as a body, in 
accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006.  
Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the 
company’s members those matters we are required to state to them 
in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent 
permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to 
anyone other than the company and the company’s members as a 
body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have 
formed.  

Respective responsibilities of directors and 
auditor
As explained more fully in the Directors’ Responsibilities Statement 
set out on page 73, the directors are responsible for the preparation 
of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a 
true and fair view. Our responsibility is to audit and express an 
opinion on the financial statements in accordance with applicable 
law and International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland). Those 
standards require us to comply with the Auditing Practices Board’s 
Ethical Standards for Auditors.

Scope of the audit of the financial 
statements
An audit involves obtaining evidence about the amounts and 
disclosures in the financial statements sufficient to give reasonable 
assurance that the financial statements are free from material 
misstatement, whether caused by fraud or error. This includes an 
assessment of: whether the accounting policies are appropriate to 
the group’s and the parent company’s circumstances and have 
been consistently applied and adequately disclosed; the 
reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by the 
directors; and the overall presentation of the financial statements. In 
addition, we read all the financial and non-financial information in the 
Annual Report to identify material inconsistencies with the audited 
financial statements and to identify any information that is apparently 
materially incorrect based on, or materially inconsistent with, the 
knowledge acquired by us in the course of performing the audit. If 
we become aware of any apparent material misstatements or 
inconsistencies we consider the implications for our report.

76   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements  independent auditor’s report to the members of Britvic plc 

continued

Our assessment of risk of material misstatement
We identify below the risks of material misstatement which had the greatest effect on the overall audit strategy, the allocation of resources in 
the audit, and directing the efforts of the engagement team. 

Risks

Our response to those risks

Revenue recognition – including the 
treatment of discounts given to 
customers in the form of long-term 
discounts or promotional discounts 
and the timing of revenue recognition 
(AC, AP*)

•  We tested controls over revenue recognition, including those relating to the timing of revenue 

recognition; 

•  We tested a sample of long-term discounts and promotional discounts by agreeing balances 

through to supporting documentation and ensured that the revenue recognition policies adopted 
complied with IFRS;

•  We performed journal entry testing and analytical procedures including correlation of revenue to 

discounts to assess completeness of discounts;

•  We performed revenue transaction testing, which included ensuring that, where necessary, the 

transaction had been appropriately recorded in the income statement;

•  We performed cut-off testing on customer delivery notes around the period end; 

•  We looked for and tested journal entries relating to revenue for transactions close to the period 
end to ensure they were valid entries. We also analysed and selected journals for testing which 
appeared unusual in nature either due to size, preparer or being manually posted. We verified 
the journals to originating documentation to confirm that the entry was valid; and

•  We ensured that the financial statement disclosures were in accordance with accounting standards.

Within International Standard on Auditing (UK&I) 240 there is a presumption that there are risks of fraud in revenue recognition. We therefore 
evaluated the revenue transactions or assertions which give rise to such risk in the current year as noted above.

The risk of management override of 
internal control 

•  We performed tailored procedures, including analytical procedures and journal entry testing, 

sufficient to address the identified risk in respect of subjective areas which were considered to 
be most susceptible to management override which we considered to be revenue discounts, 
customer claim accruals, bonus accruals and the classification of exceptional and other items. 

* These risks are discussed in other areas of the annual report as noted by the following key.

AC – See Audit Committee Report on pages 43 to 45 
AP – See note 3 accounting policies on page 84

In 2014 we also focused on:
•  The assessment of the carrying value of goodwill and indefinite 

lived assets. Although this has remained an area of audit focus in 
the current year, this has had a lesser effect on our overall audit 
strategy due to the continued growth in profitability of the group 
and a well-established methodology which supports the annual 
impairment review;

•  The valuation of the group’s derivatives and assessment of 

hedging activities. Whilst this remained an area of audit focus in 
the current year, the effective adoption of IFRS 7 in the prior year 
coupled with the implementation of a new derivatives valuation 
model meant this had a lesser effect on our overall audit strategy; 
and

•  The assessment of the assumptions used to assess the 

obligations for the defined benefit pension schemes. This has also 
remained an area of audit focus, but due to the well-established 
methodologies and processes used to derive the pension liabilities 
assumptions this had a lesser effect on our overall audit strategy.     

Our application of materiality 
We determined materiality for the group to be £7.5 million (2014: 
£6.3 million), which is approximately 5% (2014: 5%) of adjusted 
pre-tax profit because, in our view, this is the most relevant measure 
of the underlying financial performance of the group. For 2015, we 
used pre-tax profits adjusted for the transaction costs in relation to 
the purchase of Britvic Brazil (as disclosed in note 5) of the annual 
report. For 2014 we used adjusted pre-tax profits to exclude those 
items classified as “exceptional and other items” as disclosed in 
Note 5. This materiality provided the basis for determining the 
nature, timing and extent of our audit procedures, and identifying 
and assessing the risk of material misstatement.

On the basis of our risk assessments, together with our assessment 
of the group’s overall control environment, our judgement was that 
overall performance materiality (i.e. our tolerance for misstatement in 
an individual account or balance) for the group should be 75% 
(2014: 75%) of planning materiality, namely £5.6 million (2014: £4.7 
million). Our objective in adopting this approach was to ensure that 
the total corrected and uncorrected audit differences did not exceed 
our materiality of £7.5 million for the financial statements as a whole.

77 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements  independent auditor’s report to the members of Britvic plc 

continued

Our application of materiality (continued)

Audit work at individual components is undertaken based on a 
percentage of our total performance materiality. The performance 
materiality set for each component is based on the relative size of 
the component and our view of the risk of misstatement at that 
component. In the current year the range of performance materiality 
allocated to components was £0.6 million to £4.8 million (2014: £0.5 
million to £4.5 million). 

We agreed with the Audit Committee that we would report to the 
Committee all audit differences in excess of £0.38 million (2014: 
£0.32 million), as well as differences below that threshold that, in our 
view warranted reporting on qualitative grounds.

We evaluate any uncorrected misstatements against both the 
quantitative measures of materiality discussed above and in the light 
of other relevant qualitative considerations.

An overview of the scope of our audit 
In assessing the risk of material misstatement to the group financial 
statements, our group audit scope in addition to auditing the group 
level functions focused on four businesses, of which GB and France 
were subject to a full scope audit for the 52-week period ended 27 
September 2015. Certain operations of the remaining two businesses 
- Ireland (Britvic Ireland Limited) and International (Britvic Americas 
Limited and Britvic EMEA Limited) - were subject to a specific scope 
audit, where the extent of the audit work was based on our assessment 
of the risk of material misstatement in specific account balances and 
the materiality of those operations to the group’s business.

Together with the group functions, which were also subject to a full 
scope audit, these operations represent the principal business units 
of the group and account for 95% (2014: 98%) of the group’s total 
assets, 96% (2014: 100%) of the group’s revenue and 94% (2014: 
100%) of the group’s adjusted profit before tax. For 2015, the full 
scope components contributed 97% of the group’s adjusted profit 
before tax. The three specific scope components contributed 8% of 
the group’s revenue and (1%) of the group’s adjusted profit before 
tax. The audit scope of these components did not include testing of 
all significant accounts of the component but will have contributed to 
the coverage of significant accounts tested for the group. 

For the remaining locations, we performed other procedures, 
including analytical reviews, testing of consolidation journals and 
intercompany eliminations and foreign currency translation 
recalculations to respond to any potential risks of material 
misstatement to the group financial statements.

We have obtained an understanding of the entity-level controls of 
the group as a whole which assisted us in identifying and assessing 
risks of material misstatement due to fraud or error, as well as 
assisting us in determining the most appropriate audit strategy.

The Senior Statutory Auditor leads the audit of GB, the audit of both 
specific scope locations, and the group functions. The Senior 
Statutory Auditor visited France, the other full scope location, 
participated in the component teams planning including the 
discussion of fraud and error and attended the closing meeting. 

Opinion on other matters prescribed by the 
Companies Act 2006
In our opinion:

•  The part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited has 
been properly prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 
2006; 

•  The information given in the Strategic Report and the Directors’ 
Report for the financial period for which the financial statements 
are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and

•  The information given in the Corporate Governance Report set out 

on pages 33 to 73 with respect to internal control and risk 
management systems in relation to financial reporting processes 
and about share capital structures is consistent with the financial 
statements.

Matters on which we are required to report 
by exception
We have nothing to report in respect of the following: 

Under the ISAs (UK and Ireland) we are required to report to you if, in 
our opinion, information in the annual report is: 

•  Materially inconsistent with the information in the audited financial 

statements; or 

•  Apparently materially incorrect based on, or materially inconsistent 

with, our knowledge of the group acquired in the course of 
performing our audit; or 

•  Is otherwise misleading. 

In particular, we are required to consider whether we have identified 
any inconsistencies between our knowledge acquired during the 
audit and the directors’ statement that they consider the annual 
report is fair, balanced and understandable and whether the annual 
report appropriately discloses those matters that we communicated 
to the audit committee which we consider should have been disclosed. 

Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report to 
you if, in our opinion:

•  Adequate accounting records have not been kept by the parent 

company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been 
received from branches not visited by us; or

•  The parent company financial statements and the part of the 

Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited are not in 
agreement with the accounting records and returns; or

•  Certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration specified by law are 

not made; or

•  We have not received all the information and explanations we 

require for our audit; or

•  A Corporate Governance Report has not been prepared by the 

company.

Under the Listing Rules we are required to review:

•  The directors’ statement, set out on page 72, in relation to going 

concern; and

•  The part of the Corporate Governance Report relating to the 

company’s compliance with those provisions of the UK Corporate 
Governance Code specified for our review.

Simon O’Neill (Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of Ernst & Young LLP, Statutory Auditor 
Birmingham

78   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

24 November 2015

consolidated income statement

For the 52 weeks ended 27 September 2015

52 weeks ended  
27 September 2015

52 weeks ended  
28 September 2014

Before
exceptional 
& other items
£m

Exceptional
& other
items*
 £m

Note

Total

 £m

Before
exceptional 
& other items
£m

Exceptional
& other
items*
 £m

Revenue

Cost of sales

Gross profit

Selling and distribution costs

Administration expenses

Operating profit/(loss)

Finance income

Finance costs

Profit/(loss) before tax

Taxation

Profit/(loss) for the period 
attributable to the equity 
shareholders

Earnings per share

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

Adjusted basic earnings per 
share**

Adjusted diluted earnings per 
share**

*   See note 5.

6

9

9

10

11

11

11

11

1,300.1

(581.4)

718.7

(355.6)

(194.1)

169.0 

0.3

(22.3)

147.0 

(34.5)

112.5

-

-

-

-

(12.4)

(12.4)

3.6

(0.6)

(9.4)

0.7 

(8.7)

-

-

-

-

(12.8)

(12.8)

1.0

(1.0)

(12.8)

2.6

(10.2)

1,300.1 

1,344.4

(617.5)

726.9

(370.4)

(198.4)

158.1

0.2

(25.4)

132.9

(33.0)

99.9

(581.4)

718.7 

(355.6)

(206.5)

 156.6 

3.9

(22.9)

137.6 

(33.8)

 103.8 

 41.8p

 41.2p

46.3p

45.7p

Total

 £m

1,344.4

(617.5)

726.9

(370.4)

(211.2)

145.3

1.2

(26.4)

120.1

(30.4)

89.7

36.5p

36.2p

41.8p

41.5p

**   Adjusted basic and diluted earnings per share measures have been adjusted by adding back exceptional & other items (see notes 5 and 11) and amortisation relating to 

acquired intangible assets (see note 14).

All activities relate to continuing operations.

79 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic reportfinancial statements financial statementsconsolidated statement of 
comprehensive income/(expense)

For the 52 weeks ended 27 September 2015

52 weeks 
ended
27 September 
2015
£m

52 weeks 
ended
28 September 
2014
£m

Note

Profit for the period attributable to the equity shareholders

103.8

89.7

Other comprehensive income/(expense):

Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss

Remeasurement gains/(losses) on defined benefit pension schemes

Deferred tax on defined benefit pension schemes

Current tax on additional pension contributions

Items that may be subsequently reclassified to profit or loss

Gains/(losses) in the period in respect of cash flow hedges

Amounts recycled to the income statement in respect of cash flow hedges

Deferred tax in respect of cash flow hedges accounted for in the hedging reserve

Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations

Tax on exchange differences accounted for in the translation reserve

Deferred tax on other temporary differences

23

10a

10a

26

26

10a

26

10a

10a

3.2

(3.7)

3.1

2.6

10.1

(22.1)

2.5

(1.5)

-

-

(11.0)

(12.3)

(2.0)

4.5

(9.8)

(11.9)

10.5

0.1

(3.9)

0.7

0.1

(4.4)

Other comprehensive expense for the period, net of tax 

(8.4)

(14.2)

Total comprehensive income for the period attributable to the equity shareholders

95.4

75.5

80   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statementsconsolidated balance sheet

As at 27 September 2015

Assets
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Other receivables
Derivative financial instruments
Pension asset

Current assets
Inventories
Trade and other receivables
Derivative financial instruments
Cash and cash equivalents

Non-current assets held for sale
Total assets
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables
Bank overdrafts
Interest bearing loans and borrowings
Derivative financial instruments
Current income tax payable
Provisions
Other current liabilities

Non-current liabilities
Interest bearing loans and borrowings
Deferred tax liabilities
Pension liability
Derivative financial instruments
Provisions
Other non-current liabilities

Total liabilities
Net assets
Capital and reserves
Issued share capital
Share premium account
Own shares reserve
Hedging reserve
Translation reserve
Merger reserve
Retained losses
Total equity

Note

13
14
16
26
23

17
18
26
19

20

24
19
22
26

28
27

22
10d
23
26
28
27

21

2015
£m

244.2 
305.1 
2.4 
90.4 
22.4 
664.5 

86.7 
293.9 
10.9
239.6 
631.1 
3.5 
1,299.1

(417.4)
 - 
(2.9)
(13.8)
(24.0)
(1.3)
 - 
(459.4)

(572.4)
(46.4)
(5.1)
(1.3)
(1.2)
(1.5)
(627.9)
 (1,087.3)
211.8

52.2 
123.2 
(11.4)
(8.1)
14.9
87.3 
(46.3)
211.8

2014
£m

221.0
299.7
3.0
64.6
-
588.3

84.7
276.9
4.5
144.0
510.1
3.6
1,102.0

(379.7)
(0.7)
(22.4)
(1.6)
(25.4)
(4.1)
(0.4)
(434.3)

(539.9)
(23.3)
(8.4)
(9.9)
(1.6)
(1.5)
(584.6)
(1,018.9)
83.1

49.4
33.5
(2.9)
1.4
16.4
87.3
(102.0)
83.1

The financial statements were approved by the board of directors and authorised for issue on 24 November 2015. They were signed on its 
behalf by:

Simon Litherland 

John Gibney

81 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic reportfinancial statements financial statements 
consolidated statement 
of cash flows

For the 52 weeks ended 27 September 2015

52 weeks 
ended
27 September 
2015
£m

52 weeks 
ended
28 September 
2014
£m

Note

9

13

13

14

29

22

22

22

22

22

21

12

30

19

137.6

19.0

3.9

0.1

29.9

11.1

10.6

(22.2)

(4.4)

(21.5)

36.1

(3.1)

-

(30.2)

166.9

4.1

(54.1)

(7.0)

(57.0)

(21.6)

(0.9)

(18.0)

-

-

(2.2)

3.7

87.8

(9.2)

(52.9)

(13.3)

96.6

143.3

(0.3)

239.6

120.1

25.2

(1.3)

0.6

31.5

10.4

9.1

(22.9)

3.1

(15.8)

10.5

(4.8)

1.1

(20.2)

146.6

0.7

(49.2)

(8.8)

(57.3)

(24.2)

0.2

-

(76.8)

105.8

(0.4)

4.9

-

-

(46.8)

(37.3)

52.0

91.5

(0.2)

143.3

Cash flows from operating activities

Profit before tax

Finance costs

Other financial instruments

Impairment of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

Depreciation

Amortisation

Share based payments

Net pension charge less contributions

(Increase)/decrease in inventory

Increase in trade and other receivables

Increase/(decrease) in trade and other payables

Decrease in provisions

Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

Income tax paid

Net cash flows from operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

Purchases of property, plant and equipment

Purchases of intangible assets

Net cash flows used in investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities

Interest paid

Interest bearing loans drawndown/(repaid)

Repayment of 2009 USPP Notes

Repayment of 2007 USPP Notes

Issue of 2014 USPP Notes

Issue costs paid

Issue of shares relating to incentive schemes for employees

Issue of shares under a non pre-emptive placing

Purchase of own shares

Dividends paid to equity shareholders 

Net cash flows used in financing activities

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

Exchange rate differences

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period

82   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statementsconsolidated statement 
of changes in equity

For the 52 weeks ended 27 September 2015

Issued
share
capital
£m

49.0

Share
premium
account
£m

Own
shares
reserve
£m

25.0

(1.1)

-

-

-

-

-

-

At 29 September 2013

Profit for the period

Other comprehensive expense

Issue of shares

0.4

8.5

Own shares utilised for share 
schemes

Movement in share based 
schemes

Current tax on share based 
payments

Deferred tax on share based 
payments

Payment of dividend

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Hedging
reserve

Translation
reserve

 Merger
reserve

Retained
Losses*

£m

2.7

-

(1.3)

(1.3)

-

-

-

-

-

-

£m

19.6

-

(3.2)

(3.2)

-

-

-

-

-

-

£m

87.3

£m

(141.6)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

89.7

(9.7)

80.0

-

(2.2)

7.2

0.8

0.6

(46.8)

-

-

-

(5.4)

3.6

-

-

-

-

Total

£m

40.9

89.7

(14.2)

75.5

3.5

1.4

7.2

0.8

0.6

(46.8)

83.1

At 28 September 2014

49.4

33.5

(2.9)

1.4

16.4

87.3

(102.0)

Profit for the period

Other comprehensive expense

Issue of shares relating to 
incentive schemes for employees

Issue of shares under a non    
pre-emptive placing

Transaction costs relating to 
placement of ordinary shares

Own shares purchased for share 
schemes

Own shares utilised for share 
schemes

Movement in share based 
schemes

Current tax on share based 
payments

Deferred tax on share based 
payments

Payment of dividend

-

-

-

0.3

2.5

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(9.5)

(9.5)

-

(1.5)

(1.5)

5.5

(2.1)

85.3

(1.1)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(13.4)

7.0

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

At 27 September 2015

52.2

123.2

(11.4)

(8.1)

14.9

87.3

103.8 

103.8 

2.6

106.4 

-

-

-

-

(5.6)

8.2

0.6

(8.4)

95.4

3.7

87.8

 (1.1)

(13.4)

1.4

8.2

0.6

(1.0)

(1.0)

(52.9)

(46.3) 

 (52.9)

211.8 

* The retained losses balance has been amalgamated with the share scheme reserve in the consolidated statement of changes in equity and the consolidated balance sheet.

83 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic reportfinancial statements financial statementsnotes to the consolidated 
financial statements

1.  General information

Britvic plc (the ‘company’) is a company incorporated in the United Kingdom under the Companies Act 2006. It is a public limited company 
domiciled in England and Wales and its ordinary shares are traded on the London Stock Exchange. Britvic plc and its subsidiaries (together 
the ‘group’) operate in the soft drinks manufacturing and distribution industry, principally in the United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland and France.

The operating companies of the group are disclosed within note 32.

The financial statements were authorised for issue by the board of directors on 24 November 2015.

2.  Statement of compliance

The financial information has been prepared on the basis of applicable International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the 
European Union (IFRS), as they apply to the financial statements of the group. 

3.  Accounting policies
Basis of preparation
The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis.

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis except where measurement of balances at fair value is 
required as explained below. The consolidated financial statements of the group are presented in pounds sterling, which is also the functional 
currency of the company, and all values are rounded to the nearest 0.1 million except where otherwise indicated.

Finance income and finance cost have been split out on the face of the income statement in the current and prior period in order to assist 
users of the financial statements in understanding the finance costs and finance income of the group. 

Going concern
The directors are confident that it is appropriate for the going concern basis to be adopted in preparing the financial statements. As at 27 
September 2015, the consolidated balance sheet is showing a net assets position of £211.8m (28 September 2014: net assets of £83.1m).

Group reserves are low due to the capital restructuring undertaken at the time of flotation. This does not impact on Britvic plc’s ability to 
make dividend payments.

The liquidity of the group remains strong, an agreement was reached in November 2014 to refinance the group’s £400.0m bank facility with a 
revised maturity date of November 2019, which was subsequently revised further to November 2020, and £574.0m of private placement 
notes have maturity dates between 2016 and 2026. 

Basis of consolidation 
The consolidated financial statements of the group incorporate the financial information of the company and the entities controlled by the 
company (its subsidiaries) in accordance with IFRS 10 ‘Consolidated financial statements’. Control is achieved when the company:

•  Has the power over the investee;

•  Is exposed, or has rights, to variable return from its involvement with the investee; and

•  Has the ability to use its power to affect its returns.

The financial statements of subsidiaries are prepared for the same reporting period as the company, using consistent accounting policies. All 
intra-group transactions, balances, income and expenses are eliminated on consolidation. The results of subsidiary undertakings acquired or 
disposed of in the year are included in the consolidated income statement from the date the group gains control or up to the date control 
ceases respectively. 

Revenue recognition
Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the group and the revenue can be reliably 
measured, regardless of when payment is being made.

Revenue is recognised when goods are delivered and accepted by customers, when the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the 
goods have passed to the buyer and the amount can be measured reliably.

Revenue is the value of sales, excluding transactions with or between subsidiaries, after the deduction of sales-related discounts and 
rebates, value added tax and other sales-related taxes. Sales-related discounts comprise:

•  Long-term discounts and rebates – which are sales incentives to customers to encourage them to purchase increased volumes and are 

related to total volumes purchased and sales growth

•  Short-term promotional discounts – which are directly related to promotions run by customers.

Where sales-related rebates and discounts are earned, management make an accrual where it is probable that the rebate will be earned 
by the customer. Accruals are made for each individual promotion or rebate based on the specific terms and conditions of the customer 
agreement. Management make estimates on an ongoing basis to assess customer performance and sales volume to calculate total 
amounts earned to be recorded as deductions from revenue. 

84   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

3.  Accounting policies (continued)

Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and any impairment losses. Cost comprises the aggregate 
amount paid and the fair value of any other consideration given to acquire the asset and includes costs directly attributable to making the 
asset capable of operating as intended. 

Assets under construction are carried at cost. Depreciation of these assets commences when they are ready for use.

Depreciation is calculated so as to write off the cost of an asset, less its estimated residual value, on a straight-line basis, over the useful 
economic life of that asset as follows:

Plant and machinery

Vehicles (included in plant and machinery)

Equipment in retail outlets (included in fixtures, fittings, tools and equipment)

Other fixtures and fittings (included in fixtures, fittings, tools and equipment)

Land is not depreciated.

Freehold properties are depreciated over 50 years.

3 to 20 years

5 to 7 years

5 to 10 years

3 to 10 years

Leasehold properties are depreciated over 50 years, or over the unexpired lease term when this is less than 50 years.

An item of property, plant and equipment is derecognised upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected to arise from the 
continued use of the asset. Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds with carrying amount, and are included in 
the consolidated income statement in the period of derecognition.

The carrying values of property, plant and equipment are reviewed for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the 
carrying value may not be recoverable and are written down immediately to their recoverable amount. Useful lives and residual amounts are 
reviewed annually and where adjustments are required these are made prospectively.

Investment property
Investment property is property held to earn rentals and/or capital appreciation. The group has elected to use the cost model. Properties are 
stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and any impairment loss at the balance sheet date. Depreciation on investment property is 
calculated in the same way as for property, plant and equipment.

The carrying value of investment property is reviewed for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value 
may not be recoverable and is written down immediately to the recoverable amount. Useful lives and residual amounts are reviewed annually 
and where adjustments are required these are made prospectively.

Non-current assets held for sale
The group classifies non-current assets as held for sale if their carrying amounts will be recovered principally through a sale rather than 
continuing use. Such non-current assets as held for sale are measured at the lower of their carrying value and fair value less costs to sell. 

Property, plant and equipment and intangibles assets are not depreciated or amortised once classified as held for sale.

Assets classified as held for sale are presented separately beneath current items in the statement of financial position.

Goodwill
While the original acquisition of Britannia Soft Drinks Limited was accounted for under the merger method, business combinations on or after 
4 October 2004 have been accounted for under IFRS 3 ‘Business Combinations’ using the acquisition method. On acquisition, the assets, 
liabilities and contingent liabilities of a subsidiary are measured at their fair values at the date of acquisition. Any excess of the cost of 
acquisition over the fair values of the identifiable net assets acquired is recognised as goodwill. Any deficiency of the cost of acquisition below 
the fair values of the identifiable net assets acquired (discount on acquisition) is credited to the consolidated income statement in the period 
of acquisition.

Following initial recognition, goodwill is measured at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill is not amortised.

Goodwill is reviewed for impairment at least annually and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may 
be impaired. As at the acquisition date, any goodwill acquired is allocated to the group of cash-generating units expected to benefit from the 
combination’s synergies by management. Impairment is determined by assessing the recoverable amount of the group of cash-generating 
units to which the goodwill relates. Where the recoverable amount of the cash-generating units is less than the carrying amount, an 
impairment loss is recognised immediately in the consolidated income statement. 

On disposal of a subsidiary the attributable amount of goodwill is included in the determination of the profit or loss on disposal.

85 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

3.  Accounting policies (continued)

Intangible assets
Software costs
Software expenditure is recognised as an intangible asset only after its technical feasibility and commercial viability can be demonstrated. 
Acquired computer software licences and software developed in-house are capitalised on the basis of the costs incurred to acquire and 
bring to use the specific software. Costs include resources focussed on delivery of capital projects where the choice has been made to use 
internal resources rather than external resources. These costs are amortised over their estimated useful lives of three to seven years on a 
straight-line basis.

Trademarks, franchise rights and customer lists
Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at the fair value of consideration paid. Following initial recognition, 
intangible assets are carried at cost less any accumulated amortisation or impairment losses. An intangible asset acquired as part of a 
business combination is recognised outside goodwill, at fair value at the date of acquisition, if the asset is separable or arises from 
contractual or other legal rights and its fair value can be measured reliably.

The useful lives of intangible assets are assessed to be either finite or indefinite. Amortisation is charged on assets with finite lives on a 
straight-line basis over a period appropriate to the asset’s useful life.

The carrying values of intangible assets with finite and indefinite lives are reviewed for impairment when events or changes in circumstances 
indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.

Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are also tested for impairment annually either individually or, if the intangible asset does not 
generate cash flows that are largely independent of those from other assets or groups of assets, as part of the cash-generating unit to which 
it belongs. Such intangibles are not amortised. The useful life of an intangible asset with an indefinite life is reviewed annually to determine 
whether indefinite life assessment continues to be supportable. If not, the change in the useful life assessment from indefinite to finite is made 
on a prospective basis.

Research and development
Research costs are expensed as incurred. Development expenditure is recognised as an intangible asset when the group can demonstrate:

•  The technical feasibility of completing the intangible asset so that the asset will be available for use

•  Its intention to complete and its ability to use the asset

•  How the asset will generate future economic benefits

•  The availability of resources to complete the asset

•  The ability to measure reliably the expenditure during development

•  The ability to use the intangible asset generated

Following initial recognition of development expenditure as an asset, the asset is carried at cost less any accumulated amortisation and 
accumulated impairment losses. Amortisation of the asset begins when development is complete and available for use. It is amortised over 
the period of expected future benefit. During the period of development, the asset is tested for impairment annually.

Impairment of intangible assets
The group assesses at each reporting date whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. If any such indication exists, or 
when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the group makes an estimate of the asset’s recoverable amount or the recoverable 
amount of the Cash Generating Unit (“CGU”) to which the asset belongs if it does not generate largely independent cash flows. An asset’s 
recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs to sell and its value in use and is determined for an individual asset, unless 
the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets or groups of assets. Where the carrying 
amount of an asset exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount. In 
assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects senior 
management’s estimate of the cost of capital. Impairment losses of continuing operations are recognised in the consolidated income 
statement in those expense categories consistent with the function of the impaired asset.

An assessment is made at each reporting date as to whether there is any indication that previously recognised impairment losses may no 
longer exist or may have decreased. If such an indication exists, the recoverable amount is estimated. A previously recognised impairment 
loss is reversed only if there has been a change in the estimates used to determine the asset’s recoverable amount since the last impairment 
loss was recognised. If that is the case the carrying amount of the asset is increased to its recoverable amount. That increased amount 
cannot exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation, had no impairment loss been recognised for the 
asset in prior years. Goodwill impairment losses cannot subsequently be reversed.

Inventories and work in progress
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost comprises direct materials and, where applicable, direct labour costs 
and those overheads that have been incurred in bringing inventories to their present location and condition. Cost is determined using the 
weighted average cost method. Net realisable value represents the estimated selling price less all estimated costs of completion and costs to 
be incurred in marketing, selling and distribution.

86   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

3.  Accounting policies (continued)

Financial assets
The group determines the classification of its financial assets at initial recognition. When financial assets are recognised initially, they are 
measured at fair value, which is normally the transaction price, plus directly attributable transaction costs for those financial assets not 
subsequently measured at fair value through profit or loss. The group assesses at each reporting date whether a financial asset or group of 
financial assets is impaired.

Loans and receivables
The group has financial assets that are classified as loans and receivables. Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with 
fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market, do not qualify as trading assets and have not been designated as 
either fair value through profit or loss or available for sale. Such assets are carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method if the 
time value of money is significant. Gains and losses are recognised in the consolidated income statement when loans and receivables are 
derecognised or impaired, as well as through the amortisation process.

Trade and other receivables
Trade receivables, which generally have 30-90 day terms, are recognised at the lower of their original invoiced value and recoverable amount.

Provision is made when collection of the full amount is no longer considered probable. Balances are written off when the probability of 
recovery is assessed as being remote. 

Fair value
The group measures financial instruments, such as derivatives, at fair value at each balance sheet date.

Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants 
at the measurement date. The fair value measurement is based on the presumption that the transaction to sell the asset or transfer the 
liability takes place either:

•  In the principal market for the asset or liability; or

•  In the absence of a principal market, in the most advantageous market for the asset or liability.

The fair value of an asset or liability is measured using the assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability, 
assuming that market participants act in their economic best interest.

The group uses valuation techniques that are appropriate in the circumstance and for which sufficient data is available to measure fair value, 
maximising the use of relevant observable inputs and minimising the use of unobservable inputs.

All assets and liabilities for which fair value is measured or disclosed in the financial statements are categorised within the fair value hierarchy, 
described as follows, based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole:

Level 1:   quoted (unadjusted) prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2:    other techniques for which all inputs which have a significant effect on the recorded fair value are observable, either directly or indirectly.

Level 3:    techniques which use inputs which have a significant effect on the recorded fair value that are not based on observable market data.

For assets and liabilities that are recognised in the financial statements on a recurring basis, the group determines whether transfers have 
occurred between levels in the hierarchy by re-assessing categorisation at the end of each reporting period.

Derivative financial instruments and hedging
The group uses derivative financial instruments such as forward currency contracts and interest rate swaps to hedge its risks associated with 
foreign currency and interest rate fluctuations. All derivative financial instruments are initially recognised and subsequently remeasured at fair 
value. Derivatives are carried as assets when the fair value is positive and as liabilities when the fair value is negative.

The fair value of forward currency contracts is calculated by reference to current forward exchange rates for contracts with similar maturity 
profiles. The fair value of interest rate swap contracts is determined by reference to market values for similar instruments.

For those derivatives designated as hedges and for which hedge accounting is appropriate, the hedging relationship is documented at its 
inception. This documentation identifies the hedging instrument, the hedged item or transaction, the nature of the risk being hedged and 
how effectiveness will be measured throughout its duration. Such hedges are expected at inception to be highly effective.

Any gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value of derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are taken to the consolidated 
income statement. The treatment of gains and losses arising from revaluing derivatives designated as hedging instruments depends on the 
nature of the hedging relationship, as follows:

87 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

3.  Accounting policies (continued)

Derivative financial instruments and hedging (continued)

Cash flow hedges
Hedges are classified as cash flow hedges when hedging exposure to variability in cash flows that is either attributable to a particular risk 
associated with a recognised asset or liability or a highly probable forecast transaction. For cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the gain 
or loss on the hedging instrument is recognised in other comprehensive income, while the ineffective portion is recognised in the 
consolidated income statement. Amounts previously recognised in other comprehensive income are transferred to the consolidated income 
statement in the period in which the hedged item affects profit or loss, such as when a forecast sale occurs. However, when the forecast 
transaction results in the recognition of a non-financial asset or liability, the amounts previously recognised in other comprehensive income 
are included in the initial carrying amount of the asset or liability.

If a forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, amounts previously recognised in other comprehensive income are transferred to the 
consolidated income statement. If the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised without replacement or rollover, or if its 
designation as a hedge is revoked, amounts previously recognised in other comprehensive income remain in equity until the forecast 
transaction occurs and are then transferred to the consolidated income statement or included in the initial carrying amount of a non-financial 
asset or liability as above. 

Net investment hedges
Financial instruments are classified as net investment hedges when they hedge the group’s net investment in foreign operations. Some of the 
group’s foreign currency borrowings qualify as hedging instruments that hedge foreign currency net investment balances. The effective portion of 
gains or losses on translation of borrowings designated as net investment hedges is recognised in other comprehensive income. Any ineffective 
portion is recognised immediately in the consolidated income statement. Upon disposal of the associated investment in foreign operations any 
cumulative gain or loss previously recognised in other comprehensive income is recycled through the consolidated income statement.

Fair value hedges
Hedges of the change in fair value of recognised assets or liabilities are classified as fair value hedges. For fair value hedges, the gain or loss 
on the fair value of the hedging instrument is recognised in the consolidated income statement. The gain or loss on the hedged item 
attributable to the hedged risk adjusts the carrying amount of the hedged item and is also recognised in the consolidated income statement. 
If the hedge relationship no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, the hedged item would no longer be adjusted and the cumulative 
adjustment to its carrying amount would be amortised to the consolidated income statement based on a recalculated effective interest rate. 
The fair value gain or loss on the hedging instrument would continue to be recorded in the consolidated income statement.

Derecognition of financial instruments
The derecognition of a financial asset takes place when the contractual rights to the cash flows expire, or when the contractual rights to the 
cash flows have either been transferred or an obligation has been assumed to pass them through to a third party and the group does not 
retain substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset.

Financial liabilities are only derecognised when they are extinguished, that is, when the obligation is discharged, cancelled or expires.

Share-based payments
The cost of equity-settled transactions with employees is measured by reference to the fair value at the date at which they are granted. Fair 
value is determined by an external valuer using an appropriate pricing model. In valuing equity-settled transactions, no account is taken of 
any performance conditions, other than conditions linked to the price of the shares (‘market conditions’).

The cost of equity-settled transactions is recognised, together with a corresponding increase in equity, over the period in which the 
performance conditions are fulfilled, ending on the date on which the relevant employees become fully entitled to the award (‘vesting date’). 
The cumulative expense recognised for equity-settled transactions at each reporting date until the vesting date reflects the extent to which 
the vesting period has expired and the number of equity instruments that, in the opinion of the Directors and based on the best available 
estimate at that date, will ultimately vest (or in the case of an instrument subject to a market condition, be treated as vesting as described 
below). The consolidated income statement charge or credit for a period represents the movement in cumulative expense recognised as at 
the beginning and end of that period.

No expense is recognised for awards that do not ultimately vest, except for awards where vesting is conditional upon a market condition, which 
are treated as vesting irrespective of whether or not the market condition is satisfied, provided that all other performance conditions are satisfied.

Taxation
The current income tax expense is based on taxable profits for the period, after any adjustments in respect of prior periods. It is calculated 
using taxation rates enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date and is measured at the amount expected to be recovered 
from or paid to the taxation authorities.

Provision is made for deferred tax liabilities, or credit taken for deferred tax assets, on all material temporary differences between the tax base 
of assets and liabilities and their carrying values in the consolidated financial statements.

The principal temporary differences arise from accelerated capital allowances, intangible assets, provisions for pensions and other post-
retirement benefits, provisions for share-based payments and unutilised losses incurred in overseas jurisdiction.

Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is regarded as probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the 
temporary differences can be utilised.

Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the periods in which the asset or liability will be settled based on the 
tax rates enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date.

88   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

3.  Accounting policies (continued)

Provisions
Provisions are recognised when: the group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events; it is probable that an 
outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation; and the amount can be reliably estimated. Provisions are not recognised for 
future operating losses.

Provisions are measured at the present value of the expenditures expected to be required to settle the obligation using a pre-tax rate that 
reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the obligation. The increase in the provision due to 
passage of time is recognised as finance costs.

Pensions and post retirement benefits
The group operates a number of pension schemes. These include both defined benefit and defined contribution plans.

Defined benefit plans
The defined benefit pension liability or asset in the balance sheet comprises the total for each plan of the present value of the defined benefit 
obligation less the fair value of plan assets out of which the obligations are to be settled directly. The cost of providing benefits is determined 
using the projected unit credit method, with actuarial valuations being carried out at the end of each reporting period.

Remeasurement, comprising actuarial gains and losses, the effect of the asset ceiling and the return on plan assets (excluding interest), is 
reflected immediately in the statement of financial position with a charge or credit recognised in other comprehensive income in the period in 
which they occur. Remeasurement recognised in other comprehensive income is reflected immediately in retained earnings and will not be 
reclassified to profit or loss.

Past service cost is recognised in profit or loss in the period of a plan amendment. Net interest is calculated by applying the discount rate at 
the beginning of the period to the net defined liability or asset. 

Defined benefit costs are categorised as follows:

•  Service cost (including current service cost, past service cost, as well as gains and losses on curtailments and settlements);

•  Net interest expense or income; and

•  Remeasurement.

The retirement benefit obligation recognised in the consolidated statement of financial position represents the actual deficit or surplus in the 
group’s defined benefit plans. Any surplus resulting from this calculation is limited to the present value of any economic benefits available in 
the form of refunds from the plans or reductions in future contributions to the plans.

Defined contribution plans
Under defined contribution plans, contributions payable for the period are charged to the consolidated income statement as an operating 
expense.

Employee benefits
Wages, salaries, bonuses and paid annual leave are accrued in the period in which the associated services are rendered by the employees of 
the group.

Leases
Leases in which substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the leased asset are retained by the lessor are classified as operating 
leases by the group. Leases in which the group assumes substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership are classified as finance leases.

Rentals payable under operating leases are charged to income on a straight-line basis over the term of the relevant lease. Any lease 
incentives received are credited to the consolidated income statement on a straight-line basis over the term of the leases to which they 
relate.

Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents includes cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks and other short-term highly liquid investments with original 
maturities of three months or less, which are readily convertible into known amounts of cash and subject to insignificant risk of changes in 
value. For the purposes of the statement of cash flows, bank overdrafts repayable on demand are a component of cash and cash 
equivalents.

Interest bearing loans and borrowings
Interest bearing loans and borrowings are initially recognised in the balance sheet at fair value less directly attributable transaction costs and 
are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method.

Gains and losses arising on the repurchase, settlement or otherwise cancellation of liabilities are recognised respectively in finance income 
and finance cost.

On a refinancing any unamortised financing charges are accelerated through the consolidated income statement.

89 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

3.  Accounting policies (continued)

Foreign currencies
Functional and presentation currency
The consolidated financial statements of the group are presented in pounds sterling. The presentation currency of the consolidated financial 
statements is the same as the functional currency of the company. For each entity the group determines the functional currency and items, 
included in the financial statements of each entity, are measured using that functional currency.

Transactions and balances
Transactions in foreign currencies are recorded at the rate ruling at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in 
foreign currencies are translated at the rate of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. All differences are taken to the consolidated income 
statement, except when hedge accounting is applied and for differences in monetary assets and liabilities that form part of the group’s net 
investment in a foreign operation. These are taken in other comprehensive income until the disposal of the net investment, at which time they 
are recognised in profit and loss.

Foreign operations
The consolidated income statement and statement of cash flows of foreign operations are translated at the average rate of exchange during 
the period. The balance sheet is translated at the rate ruling at the reporting date. Exchange differences arising on opening net assets and 
arising on the translation of results at an average rate compared to a closing rate are both recognised in other comprehensive income. On 
disposal of a foreign operation, the accumulated exchange differences previously recognised in other comprehensive income are included in 
the consolidated income statement. 

Certain of the group’s financial instruments are classified as net investment hedges when they hedge the group’s net investment in foreign 
operations. See derivative financial instruments and hedging policy on page 87 and 88 for further detail.

Segmental reporting
Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision-maker. The chief 
operating decision-maker, who is responsible for allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating segments, has been 
identified as the board of directors of the company.

Issued share capital
Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or options are shown in equity as a 
deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds.

Other reserves
Share premium account
The share premium account is used to record the excess of proceeds over the nominal value on the issue of shares.

Own shares reserve
The own shares reserve is used to record purchases and issues by the group of its own shares, which will be distributed to employees as 
and when share awards made under the Britvic employee share plans vest.

Hedging reserve
The hedging reserve records the effective portion of movements in the fair value of forward exchange contracts, interest rate and cross-
currency swaps that have been designated as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges.

Translation reserve
The translation reserve includes cumulative net exchange differences on translation into the presentational currency of items recorded in 
group entities with a non-sterling functional currency net of amounts recognised in respect of net investment hedges.

Merger reserve
The merger reserve arose as a result of the non pre-emptive share placement which took place on 21 May 2010. It was executed using a 
structure which created a merger reserve under Section 612-3 of the Companies Act 2006. 

Own shares
The cost of own shares held in employee share trusts and in treasury is deducted from shareholders’ equity until the shares are cancelled, 
reissued or disposed. Where such shares are subsequently sold or reissued, the fair value of any consideration received is also included in 
shareholders’ equity.

Exceptional and other items
The group presents items as exceptional and other items on the face of the consolidated income statement to allow shareholders to 
understand better the elements of financial performance in the year, so as to facilitate comparison with prior periods and to assess trends in 
financial performance more readily. 

•  ‘Exceptional’ items include those significant items of income and expense which, because of the size, nature and infrequency of the events 

giving rise to them, merit separate presentation.

•  ‘Other’ items include fair value movements on financial instruments where hedge accounting cannot be applied on future transactions and 
also where hedge ineffectiveness is recognised. These items have been included within ‘exceptional and other items’ because they are 
non-cash and do not form part of how management assesses performance.

90   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

3.  Accounting policies (continued)

Key judgements and estimates
The preparation of financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts 
reported for assets and liabilities as at the balance sheet date and the amounts reported for revenues and expenses during the year. 
However, the nature of estimation means that the actual outcomes could differ from those estimates. In the process of applying the group’s 
accounting policies, management has made the following judgements and estimates which have the most significant effect on the amounts 
recognised in the financial statements.

Post-retirement benefits
The determination of the pension and other post-retirement benefits cost and obligation is based on assumptions determined with 
independent actuarial advice. The assumptions include discount rate, inflation, pension and salary increases, expected return on scheme 
assets, mortality and other demographic assumptions. These key assumptions are disclosed in note 23.

Franchise rights
Franchise rights represent franchise agreements acquired as part of the Britvic Ireland business combination which provides long-term rights 
to distribute certain soft drinks. These agreements were allocated a 35 year useful economic life. The franchise agreement has a contract life 
less than the useful economic life. The useful economic life has been determined on the basis that the renewal of the franchise agreements is 
highly probable. A significant emphasis is made on developing relationships with Pepsico, which includes maintaining an appropriate level of 
communication to deal with ongoing operational issues. This is further strengthened through the addition of Pepsico products to Britvic’s 
portfolio in recent years.

Intangible assets with indefinite lives
Management have made a judgement that intangible assets relating to brands have indefinite lives. This is based on their historical longevity, 
and a business model and strategy that is based on development and expansion of Britvic’s brands. 

Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives
Determining whether goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives are impaired requires an estimation of the value in use of the cash 
generating units to which the goodwill/intangible asset has been allocated. The value in use calculation requires an estimate of the future 
cash flows expected to arise from the cash-generating unit and a suitable discount rate in order to calculate present value. Further details are 
given in note 15.

New standards adopted in the current period
During the period, the group adopted a number of interpretations and amendments to standards including IFRS 10 ‘Consolidated financial 
statements’, IFRS 11 ‘Joint arrangements’ and IFRS 12 ‘Disclosure of interests in other entities’, all of which had an immaterial impact on the 
consolidated financial statements of the group.

New standards and interpretations not applied
The group has not applied the following IFRSs, which may be applicable to the group, that have been issued (although in some cases not yet 
adopted by the EU) but are not yet effective:

International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)

IFRS 9 

Financial Instruments 

IFRS 10, IFRS 12 and IAS 28 Amendments to IFRS10, IFRS12 and IAS 28 – Investment Entities 

IFRS 15

IFRS 11

IFRS 10 and IAS 28

Revenue from contracts with customers

Amendments to IFRS 11 – Accounting for Acquisition of Interests in 
Joint Operations

Amendments to IFRS 10 and IAS 28 – Sale or Contribution of Assets 
between an Investor and its Associate or Joint Venture

International Accounting Standards (IAS)

IAS 16 and IAS 38

Amendments to IAS 16 and IAS 38 – Clarification of Acceptable 
Methods of Depreciation and Amortisation 

IAS 1

IAS 27

Amendments to IAS 1 – Disclosure Initiatives

Amendments to IAS 27 – Equity Method in Separate Financial Statements

Annual IFRS Improvement Process

AIP IFRS 5

AIP IFRS 7 

AIP IAS 19

Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations – 
Changes in methods of disposal

Financial Instruments: Disclosure – Servicing contracts

Employee Benefits – Discount rate: regional market issue

Effective date – periods 
commencing on or after

1 January 2018

1 January 2016

1 January 2018

1 January 2016

1 January 2016

1 January 2016

1 January 2016

1 January 2016

1 January 2016

1 January 2016

1 January 2016

The group is currently confirming the impacts of the above new standards and interpretations on its results, financial position and cash flows, 
which are not expected to be material.

91 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

4.  Segmental reporting

For management purposes, the group is organised into business units and has five reportable segments as follows:

•  GB stills – United Kingdom excluding Northern Ireland

•  GB carbs – United Kingdom excluding Northern Ireland

•  Ireland – Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland

•  France

•  International

These business units sell soft drinks into their respective markets.

Management monitors the operating results of its business units separately for the purpose of making decisions about resource allocation 
and performance assessment. Segment performance is evaluated based on brand contribution. This is defined as revenue less material 
costs and all other marginal costs that management considers to be directly attributable to the sale of a given product. Such costs include 
brand specific advertising and promotion costs, raw materials and marginal production and distribution costs. However, group financing 
(including finance costs) and income taxes are managed on a group basis and are not allocated to reportable segments.

Transfer prices between reportable segments are on an arm’s length basis in a manner similar to transactions with third parties.

GB
stills
£m

321.6 

151.1 

GB
carbs
£m

565.7 

225.1 

Total
GB
£m

887.3 

376.2 

Ireland

France International

£m

120.4 

44.2 

£m

240.3 

75.6 

£m

52.1 

16.9 

52 weeks ended 27 September 2015

Revenue

Brand contribution

Non-brand advertising & promotion*

Fixed supply chain**

Selling costs**

Overheads and other costs*

Operating profit before exceptional & other items

Finance costs before exceptional & other items

Exceptional & other items

Profit before tax 

52 weeks ended 28 September 2014

Revenue 

Brand contribution 

Non-brand advertising & promotion*

Fixed supply chain**

Selling costs**

Overheads and other costs*

GB
stills
£m

335.2

159.4

GB
carbs
£m

567.8

222.4

Total
GB
£m

903.0

381.8

Ireland

France International

£m

128.3

47.0

£m

254.9

67.1

£m

58.2

21.0

Operating profit before exceptional & other items

Finance costs before exceptional & other items

Exceptional & other items

Profit before tax 

Total

£m

1,300.1 

512.9 

(9.7)

(92.6)

(118.6)

(123.0)

169.0 

(22.0)

(9.4) 

137.6 

Total

£m

1,344.4

516.9

(9.9)

(101.8)

(120.7)

(126.4)

158.1

(25.2)

(12.8)

120.1

* 

 Included within ‘administration expenses’ in the consolidated income statement. ‘Overheads and other costs’ relate to central expenses including salaries, IT 
maintenance, depreciation and amortisation.

**  Included within ‘selling and distribution costs’ in the consolidated income statement.

92   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

4.  Segmental reporting (continued)

Geographic information
Revenues from external customers
The analysis below is based on the location where the sale originated.

United Kingdom

Republic of Ireland

France

Other

Total revenue 

Non-current assets

United Kingdom

Republic of Ireland

France

Other

Total

2015
£m

939.4 

100.8 

252.7 

7.2 

2014
£m

966.7

109.2

268.2

0.3

1,300.1 

1,344.4

2015
£m

253.9 

102.0 

194.8 

1.0 

551.7 

2014
£m

233.7

105.3

183.6

1.1

523.7

Non-current assets for this purpose consist of property, plant and equipment, intangible assets and other receivables.

5.  Exceptional and other items

Unless otherwise stated, exceptional and other items are included within administration expenses in the consolidated income statement.

Asset impairments

Costs in relation to the acquisition of subsidiary

Gain on disposal of previously impaired assets

Gain on held for sale property in Britvic Ireland

Strategic restructuring - cost initiatives

Strategic restructuring - business capability programme

Fair value movements

Total included in administration expenses

Fair value movements

Total included in finance income

Fair value movements

Write-off of unamortised financing fees

Total included in finance costs 

Total exceptional and other items before tax

52 weeks ended
27 September 2015
£m

52 weeks ended
28 September 2014
£m

Note

(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

(e)

(e)

(e)

(f)

-

(6.5)

0.4

0.8

(3.6)

(1.4)

(2.1)

(12.4)

3.6

3.6

(0.6)

-

(0.6)

(9.4)

(0.7)

-

0.7

-

(14.1)

-

1.3

(12.8)

1.0

1.0

-

(1.0)

(1.0)

(12.8)

(a)  Asset impairments relates to the loss recognised on transfer of a property from property, plant and equipment to held for sale in Britvic GB 

following closure in 2014 as part of strategic cost initiatives announced in May 2013.

(b)  Costs relating to the purchase of Empresa Brasileira de Bebidas e Alimentos SA (Ebba). Primarily these costs relate to advisors fees (see note 33). 

(c)  Strategic restructuring - cost initiatives relate to the continuation of cost initiatives announced in May 2013, following the closure of two 

factories in Britvic GB and subsequent reorganisation as well as integration of GB and Ireland back office operations.

(d)   Strategic restructuring - business capability programme relates to a restructuring of supply chain to enhance commercial capabilities in Britvic GB. 

(e)  Fair value movements relate to the fair value movement of derivative financial instruments where either hedge accounting cannot be 

applied to future transactions or where there is ineffectiveness in the hedge relationship.

(f)   In 2014, following the decision to refinance the group’s committed bank facility, unamortised financing fees of £1.0m were written off to 

finance costs in the consolidated income statement (see note 9).

Details of the tax implications of exceptional and other items are given in note 10a.

93 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

6.  Operating profit/(loss)

This is stated after charging:

Cost of inventories recognised as an expense

Including: write-down of inventories to net realisable value

Research and development expenditure written off

Net foreign currency exchange differences

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment

Amortisation of intangible assets

Operating lease payments – minimum lease payments

7.  Auditor’s remuneration

Audit of the group financial statements 

Audit of subsidiaries

Total audit

Audit related assurance services

Other non-audit services not covered above

Total non-audit services

Total fees

8.   Staff costs

Wages and salaries

Social security costs

Net pension charge

Expense of share based compensation (note 29)

Directors’ emoluments

Aggregate gains made by directors on exercise of options

Number of directors accruing benefits under defined benefit schemes

The average monthly number of employees during the period was made up as follows:

Distribution

Production

Sales and marketing

Administration

94   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

2015
£m

581.4

2.4

3.5

1.0

29.9

11.1

13.5

2014
£m

617.5

1.1

2.6

1.6

31.5

10.4

11.7

2015
£m

2014
£m

0.1

0.5

0.6

0.1

0.2

0.3

0.9

2015
£m

127.0

19.6

12.8

10.6

170.0

2015
£m

2.4

-

2015
No.

-

2015
No.

290

1,386

911

530

3,117

0.2

0.4

0.6

-

1.4

1.4

2.0

2014
£m

127.9

19.8

11.1

9.1

167.9

2014
£m

2.5

1.5

2014
No.

-

2014
No.

300

1,389

911

559

3,159

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

9.  Finance costs

Finance income

  Bank deposits

  Fair value movement on interest rate swap (see note 26)

Ineffectiveness in respect of cash flow hedges

Total finance income

Finance costs

  Bank loans, overdrafts and loan notes

  Unwinding of discount in provisions

  Write off of unamortised financing fees (see note 5) 

Ineffectiveness in respect of fair value hedges

Total finance costs

Net finance costs

10. Taxation

a)  Tax on profit on continuing operations

Income statement

Current income tax

  Current income tax (charge)/credit

  Amounts over/(under) provided in previous years

Total current income tax (charge)/credit

Deferred income tax

  Origination and reversal of temporary differences

  Amounts (under)/over provided in previous years

Total deferred tax charge

Total tax (charge)/credit in the income statement

Statement of comprehensive income

Current tax on additional pension contributions

Deferred tax on defined benefit plans

Deferred tax in respect of cash flow hedges accounted for in the hedging reserve

Total tax credit in the statement of comprehensive income

Statement of changes in equity

Current tax on share options exercised

Deferred tax on share options granted to employees

Total tax charge in the statement of changes in equity

2015
£m

0.3

1.5

2.1

3.9

(22.2)

(0.1)

-

(0.6)

(22.9)

(19.0)

Before
exceptional
& other items
£m

Exceptional
& other 
items
£m

(34.4)

0.9

(33.5)

(0.6)

(0.4)

(1.0)

(34.5)

1.2

(0.2)

1.0

(0.3)

-

(0.3)

0.7

2014
£m

0.2

1.0

-

1.2

(25.3)

(0.1)

(1.0)

-

(26.4)

(25.2)

2015

Total

£m

(33.2)

0.7

(32.5)

(0.9)

(0.4)

(1.3)

(33.8)

3.1

(3.7)

2.5

1.9

0.6

(1.0)

(0.4)

95 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statements 
 
financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

10. Taxation (continued)

a)  Tax on profit on continuing operations (continued)

Income statement

Current income tax

  Current income tax (charge)/credit

  Amounts (under)/over provided in previous years

Total current income tax (charge)/credit

Deferred income tax

  Origination and reversal of temporary differences

  Amounts over/(under) provided in previous years

Total deferred tax credit/(charge)

Total tax (charge)/credit in the income statement

Statement of comprehensive income

Current tax on additional pension contributions

Deferred tax on defined benefit plans

Deferred tax in respect of cash flow hedges accounted for in the hedging reserve

Tax on exchange differences accounted for in the translation reserve

Deferred tax on other temporary differences

Total tax credit in the statement of comprehensive income

Statement of changes in equity

Current tax on share options exercised

Deferred tax on share options granted to employees

Total tax credit in the statement of changes in equity

Before 
exceptional
& other items
£m

Exceptional
& other 
items
£m

(36.2)

(2.0)

(38.2)

4.3

0.9

5.2

(33.0)

3.0

0.7

3.7

(0.4)

(0.7)

(1.1)

2.6

2014

Total

£m

(33.2)

(1.3)

(34.5)

3.9

0.2

4.1

(30.4)

4.5

(2.0)

0.1

0.7

0.1

3.4

0.8

0.6

1.4

b)  Reconciliation of the total tax charge
The tax expense in the consolidated income statement is higher (2014: higher) than the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 20.5% 
(2014: 22.0%). The differences are reconciled below:

Before
exceptional
& other items
£m

Exceptional
& other 
items
£m

147.0

(30.1)

0.5

(0.2)

0.5

(4.8)

(0.4)

(34.5)

23.5%

(9.4)

1.9

(0.7)

(0.1)

(0.2)

0.4

(0.6)

0.7

2015

Total

£m

137.6

(28.2)

(0.2)

(0.3)

0.3

(4.4)

(1.0)

(33.8)

24.6%

Profit/(loss) before tax

Profit/(loss) multiplied by the UK average rate of corporation tax of 20.5%

Permanent differences

Impact of change in tax rates on deferred tax liability

Tax over/(under) provided in previous years

Overseas tax rate differences

Losses not recognised

Effective income tax rate 

96   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

10. Taxation (continued)

b)  Reconciliation of the total tax charge (continued)

Profit/(loss) before tax

Profit/(loss) multiplied by the UK average rate of corporation tax of 22.0%

Permanent differences

Impact of change in tax rates on deferred tax liability

Tax underprovided in previous years

Overseas tax rate differences

Effective income tax rate 

Before
exceptional
& other items
£m

132.9

(29.2)

0.4

(0.2)

(0.9)

(3.1)

(33.0)

24.8%

Exceptional & 
other items

£m

(12.8)

2.8

0.1

0.1

(0.1)

(0.3)

2.6

2014

Total

£m

120.1

(26.4)

0.5

(0.1)

(1.0)

(3.4)

(30.4)

25.3%

c)  Unrecognised tax items
The temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries for which a deferred tax liability has not been recognised total £9.3m 
(2014: £7.5m). No deferred tax has been provided in respect of these differences, since the timing of the reversals can be controlled and it is 
probable that the temporary differences will not reverse in the future.

The group expects that future remittances of earnings from its overseas subsidiaries will be covered by the UK dividend exemption and so 
the un-remitted earnings of these subsidiaries are not disclosed above.

No deferred tax asset has been recognised in respect of unused tax losses of £8.8m (2014: £4.3m). Included in this amount are tax losses of 
£3.6m (2014: £2.8m) that will expire in 7-8 years. Other losses may be carried forward indefinitely. 

d)  Deferred tax
The deferred tax included in the balance sheet is as follows:

Deferred tax liability

  Accelerated capital allowances 

  Acquisition fair value adjustments*

  Other temporary differences

  Post employment benefits

Deferred tax liability

Deferred tax asset

  Employee incentive plan

  Unutilised losses incurred in overseas jurisdictions

  Other temporary differences

Deferred tax asset

Net deferred tax liability

2015
£m

(5.8)

(33.9)

(1.5)

(20.3)

(61.5)

5.8

4.2

5.1

15.1

(46.4)

2014
£m

(5.4)

(15.4)

-

(16.1)

(36.9)

5.7

6.6

1.3

13.6

(23.3)

* 

 Following a review, further non-current deferred tax liabilities of £20.3m were identified that should have been recognised in relation to acquired indefinite life brand 
intangibles upon acquisition of Britvic France which has resulted in an increase in goodwill.

97 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

10. Taxation (continued)

d)  Deferred tax (continued)

Certain deferred tax assets and liabilities have been offset. The following is the analysis of the deferred tax balances (after offset) for financial 
reporting purposes:

Net deferred tax assets 

Net deferred tax liabilities 

The deferred tax included in the consolidated income statement is as follows:

Employee incentive plan

Accelerated capital allowances

Post employment benefits

Acquisition fair value adjustments

(Utilised)/unutilised losses incurred in overseas jurisdictions

Other temporary differences

Deferred tax (charge)/credit 

2015
£m

-

(46.4)

(46.4)

2015
£m

0.9

(0.4)

(0.4)

0.9

(1.6)

(0.7)

(1.3)

2014
£m

-

(23.3)

(23.3)

2014
£m

1.4

1.5

(0.6)

1.0

1.3

(0.5)

4.1

In 2015, there is a £0.3m charge relating to exceptional items (2014: £1.1m charge) included within the overall £1.3m deferred tax charge 
(2014: overall £4.1m credit) in the consolidated income statement.

e) Impact of rate change
Finance Act 2015 enacted reductions in the UK corporation tax rate from 20% to 19% from 1 April 2017 and to 18% from 1 April 2020. The 
effect of the new rate is to reduce the deferred tax provision by a net £1.9m, comprising a credit of £1.7m to the income statement and a 
credit of £0.2m to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.

11. Earnings per share

Basic earnings per share amounts are calculated by dividing the net profit/(loss) for the period attributable to the equity shareholders of the 
parent by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period.

Diluted earnings per share amounts are calculated by dividing the net profit attributable to the ordinary equity shareholders of the parent by 
the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period plus the weighted average number of ordinary shares that 
would be issued on the conversion of all the dilutive potential ordinary shares into ordinary shares. 

The following table reflects the income and share data used in the basic and diluted earnings per share computations:

Basic earnings per share

Profit for the period attributable to equity shareholders

Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue for basic earnings per share 

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

Profit for the period attributable to equity shareholders

Effect of dilutive potential ordinary shares – share schemes

Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue for diluted earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share 

2015
£m

103.8

248.6

41.8p

103.8

3.1

251.7

41.2p

2014
£m

89.7

245.8

36.5p

89.7

1.7

247.5

36.2p

The group has granted share options to employees which have the potential to dilute basic EPS in the future which have not been included 
in the calculation of diluted EPS as they are antidilutive for the periods presented (see note 29).

The group presents as exceptional and other items on the face of the consolidated income statement, those significant items of income and 
expense which, because of the size, nature and infrequency of the events giving rise to them, merit separate presentation to allow 
shareholders to understand better the elements of financial performance in the period, so as to facilitate comparison with prior periods and to 
assess trends in financial performance more readily.

98   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

11. Earnings per share (continued)

To this end, basic and diluted earnings per share are also presented on this basis with the amortisation of acquisition related intangible assets 
also added back using the weighted average number of ordinary shares for both basic and diluted amounts as per the table below.

Adjusted basic earnings per share

Profit for the period attributable to equity shareholders

Add: Net impact of exceptional and other items

Add: Intangible assets amortisation (acquisition-related)

Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue for basic earnings per share

Adjusted basic earnings per share 

Adjusted diluted earnings per share

Profit for the period attributable to equity shareholders before exceptional items and 
other items and acquisition related intangible assets amortisation

Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue for diluted earnings per share

Adjusted diluted earnings per share

Note

14

2015
£m

103.8

8.7

2.6

115.1

248.6

46.3p

2014
£m

89.7

10.2

2.9

102.8

245.8

41.8p

115.1

102.8

251.7

45.7p

247.5

41.5p

The weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue for basic and diluted earnings per share includes 2.1 million shares in relation to the 
non pre-emptive share placement in July 2015 which was used for the acquisition of Ebba subsequent to the period end. The impact of this 
placement is a reduction in the adjusted basic and diluted earnings per share of 0.4p in the current period. 

12. Dividends paid and proposed

Declared and paid during the period

Equity dividends on ordinary shares

  Final dividend for 2014: 14.8p per share (2013: 13.0p per share)

Interim dividend for 2015: 6.7p per share (2014: 6.1p per share)

Dividends paid

Proposed 

  Final dividend for 2015: 16.3p per share (2014: 14.8p per share)

2015
£m

2014
£m

36.4

16.5

52.9

42.6

31.8

15.0

46.8

36.3

99 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statements 
financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

13. Property, plant and equipment

At 29 September 2013, net of accumulated 
depreciation and impairment

Exchange differences 

Additions

Disposals at cost 

Depreciation eliminated on disposals

Depreciation charge for the year

Assets transferred to held for sale (note 20)

Reclassification

(Impairment)*/impairment reversal

At 28 September 2014 net of accumulated 
depreciation and impairment

Exchange differences 

Additions

Disposals at cost 

Depreciation eliminated on disposals

Depreciation charge for the year

Assets transferred to held for sale (note 20)

Reclassification

Impairment*

At 27 September 2015 net of accumulated 
depreciation and impairment

At 27 September 2015

Cost (gross carrying amount)

Accumulated depreciation and impairment

Net carrying amount

At 28 September 2014

Cost (gross carrying amount)

Accumulated depreciation and impairment

Net carrying amount

Freehold
land and
buildings

Leasehold
land and
buildings

Plant and
machinery

£m

61.5

(2.1)

15.5

-

-

(2.5)

-

-

-

72.4

(1.8)

9.9

(0.2)

0.2

(2.8)

-

-

-

£m

29.0

(0.7)

0.9

-

-

(0.9)

(3.6)

-

(0.7)

24.0

(0.4)

1.7

-

-

(1.0)

(2.8)

-

-

£m

86.4

(2.6)

18.8

(2.9)

2.0

(17.6)

-

0.7

0.1

84.9

(2.0)

40.8

(2.8)

2.7

(16.2)

-

(0.3)

(0.1)

77.7

21.5

107.0

101.9

(24.2)

77.7

95.4

(23.0)

72.4

32.2

(10.7)

21.5

35.9

(11.9)

24.0

310.0

(203.0)

107.0

279.7

(194.8)

84.9

Fixtures,
fittings,
 tools and
equipment
£m

38.8

(0.1)

12.9

(15.2)

14.5

(10.5)

-

(0.7)

-

39.7

-

8.9

(15.1)

14.1

(9.9)

-

0.3

-

38.0

149.7

(111.7)

38.0

157.5

(117.8)

39.7

Total

£m

215.7

(5.5)

48.1

(18.1)

16.5

(31.5)

(3.6)

-

(0.6)

221.0

(4.2)

61.3

(18.1)

17.0

(29.9)

(2.8)

-

(0.1)

244.2

593.8

 (349.6)

244.2

568.5

(347.5)

221.0

* 

 The impairment in 2015 relates to assets impaired in France. The impairment in 2014 relates to a loss on transfer of a property held in the GB stills segment to 
non-current assets held for sale (see note 20), and has been included within exceptional and other items (see note 5). 

Assets under construction
The net book value of property, plant and equipment includes the following balances in respect of assets under construction where no 
depreciation is charged until these assets are ready to be used; freehold land and buildings £1.1m (2014: £0.9m), plant and machinery 
£28.0m (2014: £8.0m), and fixtures, fittings, tools and equipment £9.9m (2014: £12.6m).

Finance leases
The net book value of freehold land and buildings includes £0.1m (2014: £0.1m) in respect of assets held under finance leases. The assets 
are pledged as security for the finance lease liabilities.

Investment property
The net book value of freehold land and buildings includes £2.6m (2014: £nil) in respect of assets classified as investment property. The 
investment property was purchased during the current period at fair value and comprises £2.5m in relation to the freehold land and buildings 
and £0.1m of associated purchase costs. The property rental income earned by the group from its investment property, all of which is leased 
out under operating leases, amounted to £0.1m (2014: £nil). 

100   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

14. Intangible assets

Trademarks

Cost as at 29 September 2013, net of 
accumulated amortisation

Exchange differences 

Additions

Disposals at cost

Amortisation eliminated on disposals

Amortisation charge for the period

At 28 September 2014

Exchange differences 

Additions

Disposals at cost

Amortisation eliminated on disposals

Amortisation charge for the period

Other movement**

At 27 September 2015

At 27 September 2015

Cost (gross carrying amount)

Accumulated amortisation and 
impairment

Net carrying amount

At 28 September 2014

Cost (gross carrying amount)

Accumulated amortisation and 
impairment

Net carrying amount

*   Acquisition related amortisation (see note 11).

£m

97.5

(6.5)

-

-

-

-

91.0

(5.1)

-

-

-

-

-

85.9

111.3

(25.4)

85.9

117.9

(26.9)

91.0

Franchise
rights
£m

Customer
lists
£m

Software
costs
£m

34.8

(2.2)

-

-

-

(2.2)*

30.4

(1.6)

-

-

-

(2.0)*

-

26.8

43.9

(17.1)

25.0

(0.1)

8.8

(0.4)

0.2

(7.5)

26.0

-

8.2

(6.6)

6.4

(8.5)

-

25.5

73.6

(48.1)

Goodwill

£m

139.1

(5.2)

-

-

-

-

133.9

(4.1)

-

-

-

-

20.3

150.1

210.0

(59.9)

Total

£m

317.0

(15.5)

8.8

(0.4)

0.2

(10.4)

299.7

(11.8)

8.2

(6.6)

6.4

(11.1)

20.3

305.1

460.6

(155.5)

26.8

25.5

150.1

305.1

46.5

(16.1)

72.8

(46.8)

196.6

(62.7)

456.9

(157.2)

30.4

26.0

133.9

299.7

20.6

(1.5)

-

-

-

(0.7)*

18.4

(1.0)

-

-

-

(0.6)*

-

16.8

21.8

(5.0)

16.8

23.1

(4.7)

18.4

**   Following a review, further non-current deferred tax liabilities were identified that should have been recognised in relation to acquired indefinite life brand intangibles upon 

acquisition of Britvic France which has resulted in an increase in goodwill.

Trademarks
Britvic Ireland and Britvic France
Trademarks represent those trade names acquired which the group plans to maintain. All trademarks have been allocated an indefinite life by 
management. A list of the trademarks held in respect of the Britvic Ireland and Britvic France segments is shown in note 15.

It is expected, and in line with existing well-established trademarks within the group, that the trademarks with indefinite lives in respect of 
Britvic France and Britvic Ireland will be held and supported for an indefinite period of time and are expected to generate economic benefits. 
The group is committed to supporting its trademarks and invests in significant consumer marketing promotional spend.

Franchise rights 
Franchise rights represent the franchise agreements acquired as part of the Britvic Ireland business combination which provide the long-term 
right to bottle and distribute certain soft drinks. These agreements were allocated a 35-year useful economic life. As at 27 September 2015 
these intangible assets have a remaining useful life of 27 years. The franchise agreement itself has a contract life less than the useful 
economic life. The useful economic life has been determined on the basis that the renewal of the contract is highly probable.

Customer lists
Britvic France
Customer lists recognised on the acquisition of Britvic France relate to those customer relationships acquired. These intangible assets have 
been allocated useful economic lives of 20 years. At 27 September 2015 these intangible assets have a remaining useful life of 15 years.

Britvic Ireland
Customer lists represent those customer relationships acquired which are valued in respect of the grocery and wholesale businesses. These 
customer lists have been allocated useful economic lives of between ten and twenty years. At 27 September 2015 these intangible assets 
have a remaining useful life of between two and twelve years. 

101 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued
financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

14. Intangible assets (continued)

Software costs
Software is capitalised at cost. These intangible assets have been assessed as having finite lives and are amortised using the straight-line 
method over a period of 3 to 7 years. As at 27 September 2015 these intangible assets have a remaining useful life of up to 7 years.

Goodwill
Goodwill is subject to an impairment review at each reporting date in accordance with IAS 36 ‘Impairment of Assets’. Further detail is 
provided in note 15.

Intangible assets recognised on the acquisition of Britvic Ireland and Britvic France are valued in euros and translated to sterling at the 
reporting date.

15. Impairment testing of intangible assets

Carrying amount of goodwill and trademarks with indefinite lives
The carrying amount of goodwill acquired through business combinations, and trademarks with indefinite lives recognised as part of fair 
value exercises on acquisitions, are attributable to the following cash-generating units:

Goodwill CGUs

  Britvic GB

Orchid

Tango

Robinsons

Britvic Soft Drinks business (BSD)

  Britvic Ireland

  Britvic France

Trademarks with indefinite lives

  Britvic Ireland CGUs

Britvic

Cidona

Mi Wadi

Ballygowan

Club

  Britvic France CGUs

Teisseire

Moulin de Valdonne

Pressade

Fruité 

Total Trademarks

2015
£m

2014
£m

6.0

8.9

38.6

7.8

14.7

74.1

6.0

8.9

38.6

7.8

15.5

57.1

150.1

133.9

2015
£m

2014
£m

5.5

4.9

7.6

2.1

12.5

32.6

42.1

3.5

4.0

3.7

53.3

85.9

5.9

5.2

8.0

2.2

13.2

34.5

44.7

3.7

4.2

3.9

56.5

91.0

The Britvic Ireland and Britvic France goodwill and trademarks with indefinite lives are valued in euros and translated into sterling at the 
reporting date. The movements in the carrying amount of goodwill from the prior year relate to translation movements.

With the exception of Britvic Ireland and Britvic France goodwill, all other goodwill amounts were recognised on acquisitions made within 
Britvic GB.

Trademarks with indefinite lives were recognised as part of the fair value exercises relating to the 2007 acquisition of Britvic Ireland and the 
2010 acquisition of Britvic France. They were allocated by senior management to the individual cash-generating units for impairment testing 
as shown in the table above.

102   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued
financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

15. Impairment testing of intangible assets (continued)

Method of impairment testing
Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives
Impairment reviews of goodwill and intangible assets are undertaken by senior management annually. Value in use calculations are performed 
for each cash-generating unit using cash flow projections and are based on the latest annual financial budgets prepared by senior 
management and approved by the board of directors. Senior management expectations are formed in line with performance to date and 
experience, as well as available external market data.

The group has considered the impact of the current economic climate in determining the appropriate discount rate to use in impairment 
testing. The same discount rate is relevant to all CGUs in each country as the group only operates in the soft drinks manufacturing and 
distribution market sector. The applicable pre-tax discount rate for cash flow projections is:

Britvic GB

Britvic Ireland

Britvic France

At 27 September 2015

At 28 September 2014

10.9%

9.3%

12.8%

9.6%

9.7%

10.5%

Key assumptions used in value in use calculations
Cash flows beyond a one-year period are extrapolated based on growth and discount rates as described below.

The following describes each key assumption on which management has based its cash flow projections to undertake impairment testing of 
goodwill.

Volume growth rates – reflect senior management expectations of volume growth based on growth achieved to date, current strategy and 
expected market trends.

Discount rates – reflect senior management’s estimate of the pre-tax cost of capital adjusted where necessary to reflect the different risks of 
different countries in which the group operates. The estimated pre-tax cost of capital is the benchmark used by management to assess 
operating performance and to evaluate future capital investment proposals.

Marginal contribution – being revenue less material costs and all other marginal costs that management considers to be directly attributable 
to the sale of a given product. Marginal contribution is based on financial budgets approved by the Britvic plc board. Key assumptions are 
made within these budgets about pricing, discounts and costs based on historical data, current strategy and expected market trends.

Advertising and promotional spend – financial budgets approved by senior management are used to determine the value assigned to 
advertising and promotional spend. This is based on the planned spend for year one and strategic intent thereafter.

Raw materials price, production and distribution costs, selling costs and other overhead inflation – the basis used to determine the value 
assigned to inflation is the forecast increase in consumer price indices in the relevant market. This has been used in all value in use 
calculations performed.

Intangible assets with finite lives
No indicators of impairment were identified on intangible assets with finite lives and no impairment was recognised against these assets.

Results and conclusions
No impairments have been identified during the 52 week period ended 27 September 2015. In 2014 no impairments were identified.

Other than for the Britvic trademark within Britvic Ireland where the recoverable amount is equal to its carrying value, the directors do not 
consider that a reasonably possible change in the assumptions used to calculate the value in use of remaining goodwill and intangible assets 
would result in any impairment. The key assumption to which the calculation of value in use for the Britvic trademark within Britvic Ireland is 
most sensitive is the discount rate where an increase in the discount rate from 9.3% to 10.3% would result in an impairment charge of 
£0.5m.

16. Other receivables (non-current)

Operating lease premiums

Other

Total other receivables (non-current)

2015
£m

2.4

-

2.4

Operating lease premiums relates to the un-amortised element of lease premiums paid on inception of operating leases.

2014
£m

2.4

0.6

3.0

103 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

17. Inventories

Raw materials

Finished goods

Consumable stores

Returnable packaging

Total inventories at lower of cost and net realisable value

18. Trade and other receivables (current)  

Trade receivables

Other receivables

Prepayments

2015
£m

24.6

54.0

7.2

0.9

86.7

2015
£m

269.2

9.4

15.3

293.9

2014
£m

27.5

49.1

6.7

1.4

84.7

2014
£m

250.0

9.0

17.9

276.9

Trade receivables are non-interest bearing and are generally on credit terms usual for the markets in which the group operates. As at 27 
September 2015, trade receivables at nominal value of £1.8m (2014: £1.2m) were impaired and fully provided against. Movements in the 
provision for impairment of receivables were as follows:

At 29 September 2013

Charge for period

Utilised

Unused amounts reversed

At 28 September 2014

Charge for period

Utilised

Unused amounts reversed

At 27 September 2015

Total
£m

 1.6

2.5

(0.5)

(2.4)

1.2

2.5

(0.2)

(1.7)

1.8

The group takes the following factors into account when considering whether a provision for impairment should be made for trade 
receivables:

•  Payment performance history; and 

•  External information available regarding credit ratings.

The ageing analysis of trade receivables is as follows:

Total

£m

269.2

250.0

Neither
past due
nor impaired
£m

224.9

222.7

< 30 days

30 – 60
days

60 – 90
days

90 – 120
days

> 120 days

Past due but not impaired

£m

23.8

13.1

£m

5.8

3.1

£m

5.3

1.3

£m

1.2

0.4

£m

8.2

9.4

2015

2014

The credit quality of trade receivables that are neither past due nor impaired is considered good. Refer to note 25 for details of the group’s 
credit risk policy. The group monitors the credit quality of trade receivables by reference to credit ratings available externally.

104   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

19. Cash and cash equivalents

Cash at bank and in hand

Deposits

Cash and cash equivalents

Bank overdrafts

Cash and cash equivalents in the statement of cash flows

2015
£m

14.3

225.3

239.6

-

239.6

2014
£m

25.3

118.7

144.0

(0.7)

143.3

During the year, short-term deposits are made for varying periods depending on the immediate cash requirements of the group, and earn 
interest at the respective short-term deposit rates. The fair value of cash and cash equivalents is equal to the book value.

At 27 September 2015 the group had available £400.0m (2014: £400.0m) of un-drawn committed borrowing facilities in respect of which all 
conditions precedent had been met. Following the refinancing of this agreement during the year these facilities now have a maturity date of 
November 2020.

Where available, the group operates cash pooling arrangements whereby the net cash position across a number of accounts is recognised 
for interest purposes.

20. Non-current assets held for sale

At 29 September 2013

Net transfer from property, plant and equipment

At 28 September 2014

Disposal

Net transfer from property, plant and equipment

Impairment in value during the period

At 27 September 2015

Total
£m

-

3.6

3.6

(2.8)

2.8

(0.1)

3.5

The disposal relates to a property previously held for sale in Britvic Ireland. The sale of the property completed on 2 October 2014 and 
resulted in a gain on disposal of £0.8m.

21. Issued share capital

The issued share capital is wholly comprised of ordinary shares carrying one voting right each. The nominal value of each ordinary share is 
£0.20. There are no restrictions placed on the distribution of dividends, or the return of capital on a winding up or otherwise.

Issued, called up and fully paid ordinary shares 

At 29 September 2013

Shares issued relating to incentive schemes for employees

At 28 September 2014

Shares issued relating to incentive schemes for employees

Shares issued under a non pre-emptive placing

At 27 September 2015

No. of shares

Value
£

245,091,028

49,018,205

2,138,087

427,618

247,229,115

49,445,823

1,549,282

309,856

12,361,455

2,472,291

261,139,852

52,227,970

Consideration received from the non pre-emptive placing was £87.8m which was used for the acquisition of Ebba subsequent to the period 
end. In addition fees relating to the raising of equity of £1.1m have been offset in share premium. 

Of the issued and fully paid ordinary shares, 1,678,637 shares (2014: 409,725 shares) are own shares held by an employee benefit trust. 
This equates to £335,727 (2014: £81,945) at £0.20 par value of each ordinary share. These shares are held for the purpose of satisfying the 
share schemes detailed in note 29.

An explanation of the group’s capital management process and objectives is set out in note 25.

105 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

22. Interest bearing loans and borrowings

Current

Finance leases

Bank loans

Private placement notes

Less: un-amortised issue costs

Total current

Non-current

Finance leases

Bank loans

Private placement notes

Less: un-amortised issue costs

Total non-current

Total interest bearing loans and borrowings

Total interest bearing loans and borrowings comprise the following:

Finance leases

2007 Notes

2009 Notes

2010 Notes

2014 Notes

Accrued interest

Bank loans

Capitalised issue costs

Analysis of changes in interest-bearing loans and borrowings

At the beginning of the period 

Net bank loans repaid/(drawndown)

Partial repayment of 2007 Notes

Partial repayment of 2009 Notes

Issue of 2014 Notes

Issue costs

Repayment of finance leases

Amortisation of issue costs and write off of financing fees

Net translation (loss)/gain and fair value adjustment

Accrued interest

At the end of the period 

Derivatives hedging balance sheet debt *

Debt translated at contracted rate

2015
£m

(0.1)

(0.1)

(3.4)

0.7

(2.9)

2015
£m

(0.1)

(0.4)

(574.0)

2.1

(572.4)

(575.3)

2015
£m

(0.2)

(192.8)

(151.3)

(119.8)

(110.1)

(3.4)

(0.5)

2.8

2014
£m

(0.1)

(0.8)

(21.8)

0.3

(22.4)

2014
£m

(0.2)

(0.6)

(540.1)

1.0

(539.9)

(562.3)

2014
£m

(0.3)

(180.9)

(160.5)

(111.7)

(105.2)

(3.6)

(1.4)

1.3

(575.3)

(562.3)

2015
£m

2014
£m

(562.3)

(549.9)

0.9

-

18.0

-

2.2

0.1

(0.7)

(33.7)

0.2

(575.3)

71.8

(503.5)

(0.4)

76.8

-

(105.8)

0.4

0.2

(1.9)

18.0

0.3

(562.3)

38.1

(524.2)

* 

 Represents the element of the fair value of interest rate currency swaps hedging the balance sheet value of the private placement notes. This amount has been 
disclosed separately to demonstrate the impact of foreign exchange movements which are included in interest bearing loans and borrowings. 

106   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

 
financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

22. Interest bearing loans and borrowings (continued)

Bank loans
The bank loans classified as non-current are repayable by December 2018 (2014: December 2018).

Loans outstanding at 27 September 2015 attract interest at an average rate of 4.52% for euro denominated loans (2014: 4.21% for euro 
denominated loans and 11.00% for Indian Rupee denominated loans). There were no sterling denominated bank loans outstanding at 27 
September 2015 (2014: £nil).

Private placement notes
The group holds loan notes with coupons and maturities as shown in the following table:

Year issued

Maturity date

Amount

Interest terms

2007

2007

2009

2010

2010

2014

2014

February 2019

February 2017 – February 2019

December 2016 – December 2019

December 2017

December 2017 – December 2022

February 2021 – February 2024

February 2024 – February 2026

£13m

$273m

$220m

£7.5m

$163m

£35m

$114m

UK£ fixed at 5.94%

US$ fixed at 5.90% - 6.00%

US$ fixed at 4.77% - 5.24%

UK£ fixed at 3.74%

US$ fixed at 3.45% - 4.14%

UK£ fixed at 3.40% - 3.92%

US$ fixed at 4.09% - 4.24%

The group entered into a number of cross-currency swap agreements in relation to the loan notes to manage any foreign exchange risk on 
interest rates or on the repayment of the principal borrowed. These swaps expire in line with the loan notes and are discussed in note 26.

See note 25 for an analysis of the interest rate profile and the maturity of the borrowings and related interest rate swaps.

Partial repayment of 2009 Notes
On 17 December 2014, in line with the maturity profile of the 2009 Notes, Britvic plc repaid US$30m (equivalent to £18.0m) in the United 
States private placement market (USPP).

23. Pensions

The group’s principal pension scheme for GB employees, the Britvic Pension Plan (‘BPP’) has both a defined benefit and contribution 
section. The defined benefit section was closed to new members from 1 August 2002 and closed to future accrual for active members from 
1 April 2011, with new members moving to the defined contribution section for future service benefits.

Contributions are paid into the defined benefit section of the BPP as determined by the Trustee, agreed by the company and certified by an 
independent actuary in the Schedule of Contributions. The latest formal actuarial valuation for contribution purposes was carried out as at 31 
March 2013. No additional employer contributions have been requested as the funding level has improved since the 2010 actuarial valuation.

The BPP is a limited partner of Britvic Scottish Limited Partnership (‘Britvic SLP’), which in turn is a limited partner in both Britvic Property 
Partnership (‘Britvic PP’) and Britvic Brands LLP (‘Britvic Brands’). Britvic SLP, Britvic PP and Britvic Brands are all consolidated by the group. The 
investment held by BPP does not represent a plan asset for accounting purposes and is therefore not included in the fair value of the plan assets.

In 2010/11 properties were transferred to Britvic PP at a value of £28.6m and in 2011/12 certain group brands to the value of £72.4m were 
transferred to Britvic Brands, all of which are leased back to Britvic Soft Drinks Limited. The group retains operational flexibility over the 
properties and brands including the ability to substitute the properties and brands held by Britvic PP and Britvic Brands respectively.

The BPP is entitled to a share of the profits in Britvic SLP until 2026. At the end of this period, the partnership capital allocated to the BPP will 
be changed to an amount equal to any funding deficit of the BPP at this time, up to a maximum of £105m.

In addition to the expected partnership income of at least £5m per annum, the group will make payments to the BPP of £15m per annum by 
31 December each year, from 2014 to 2017. Additional contributions of £15m per annum by 31 December in the years 2018 and 2019 will 
be made should the formal actuarial valuation in 2016 reveal that these contributions are necessary to return the BPP to full funding on a 
self-sufficiency basis by 31 March 2020. During this year £20.4m of additional contributions were paid to the BPP, of which £15.4m was paid 
by the group and £5.0m relates to income received from the pension funding partnership (‘PFP’) structure.

All members of the defined benefit section of the BPP may benefit from the Enhanced Early Retirement Facility (‘EERF’), which is a non-
contractual benefit that allows members to retire within five years of reaching the normal pension age without a reduction in their pension, 
and to benefit from smaller reductions in their pension if they retire more than five years before reaching normal pension age. The company 
has given notice to all Plan members that the EERF will be withdrawn from 5 April 2016.

The amount recognised as an expense in relation to the BPP defined contribution scheme in the consolidated income statement for 2015 
was £11.4m (2014: £10.8m).

Britvic’s business in GB also has a secured unfunded unregistered retirement benefit scheme called The Britvic Executive Top Up Scheme 
(‘BETUS’) which provides benefits for members who have historically exceeded the Earnings Cap, or the Lifetime Allowance whilst members 
of the defined benefit section of the BPP. BETUS closed to future accrual on 10 April 2011 which coincided with the closure of the defined 
benefit section of the BPP. 

107 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

23. Pensions (continued)

The Britvic Northern Ireland Pension Plan (‘BNIPP’) is a defined benefit pension plan which was closed to new members on 28 February 
2006, and since this date new employees have been eligible to join a Stakeholder plan with Legal & General. The latest formal actuarial 
valuation for contribution purposes was carried out as at 31 December 2011. The 31 December 2014 valuation is currently underway and is 
expected to be completed by 31 March 2016.

The Britvic Ireland Pension Plan (‘BIPP’) is a defined benefit pension plan. Following legislative changes made in 2012 no deficit recovery 
contributions are currently required. The 1 January 2015 triennial valuation is underway and will be completed by 1 April 2016. The Trustee 
has been undertaking investment de-risking to protect the ongoing funding position achieved as a result of the 2012 changes. 

The amount recognised as an expense in relation to the Irish defined contribution schemes in the consolidated income statement for 2015 
was £0.6m (2014: £0.8m).

Britvic France operates two defined benefit schemes: in the first, employees receive long-service cash payments at various stages 
throughout their careers. From the second, employees receive a lump sum at retirement. Payment amounts are dependent upon salary and 
service with the company. The schemes are unfunded therefore these benefits are paid directly as they fall due.

All group pension schemes are administered by trustees who are independent of the group’s finances, except for the Britvic France schemes 
which are operated directly by the company.

The assets and liabilities of the pension schemes were valued on an IAS 19 (Revised) basis at 27 September 2015 by Towers Watson (BPP 
and the French schemes), Invesco (BIPP) and Buck (BNIPP).

Risks
For defined contribution sections and plans, the group’s liability is limited to the requirement to pay contributions on behalf of each employee. 
In these arrangements the associated risks are borne by the members.

For defined benefit sections and plans, the group bears the risks of operation. The main risk that the group runs in respect of the defined 
benefit schemes is that additional contributions are required to pay for the benefits if investment returns are not sufficient. The contributions 
required for the schemes are in general determined at each triennial actuarial funding valuation. The key factors that will affect the need for 
additional contributions include levels of long-term inflation and interest rates and the assessment of how long members are expected to live, 
along with the level of investment return achieved. The level of investment return achieved is subject to a range of risks typical of the asset 
classes held, in particular market risk on equities, credit risk on corporate bonds and exposure to the property market. The discount rates 
used to calculate the liabilities are set by reference to yields on high quality corporate bonds. There is therefore a mismatch between the 
assets held and the way that the liabilities are calculated, meaning that the net balance sheet position disclosed under IAS 19 could fluctuate.

For the BPP, the trustee holds the power to determine the contribution rates that the group should pay, although the group fully uses the 
opportunity to make representation to the trustee on this point.

The trustee of the BPP agreed to implement a revised investment strategy following the completion of the 31 March 2013 valuation. The 
revised investment strategy will consist of a diverse range of fixed interest and index-linked securities, which will provide a partial hedge 
against inflation and interest rate risk. The removal of equities from the investment portfolio will also reduce investment risk.

The BPP is exposed to specific non-financial risks in respect of the non-contractual EERF benefit available to all members of its defined benefit section. 
If more members than expected choose to exercise this option, it will serve to increase the pension liability. An allowance for some members to exercise 
this option has already been made within the liabilities and the facility will be withdrawn from 5 April 2016, at which point this risk will be removed.

The funding partnership mitigates the risk that additional cash contributions will be required after 31 March 2026, as the partnership will pay 
up to £105m to remove any funding deficit at 31 March 2026. 

Principal assumptions 

Financial assumptions

Discount rate

Rate of compensation increase

Pension increases 

Inflation assumption

Discount rate

Rate of compensation increase

Pension increases 

Inflation assumption

* Rate dependent on employee and business unit.

108   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

ROI
%

2.60

2.00

-

1.40

ROI
%

3.00

2.75

-

1.75

NI
%

3.60

3.60

2.10-2.30

2.30

France
%

2.00

2.00-3.00*

-

2.00

NI
%

3.90

3.60

France
%

1.86

1.00-4.00*

2015

GB
%

3.80

n/a

1.85-2.95

3.15

2014

GB
%

4.00

n/a

2.10-2.30

2.30

-

-

1.90-2.95

3.20

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

23. Pensions (continued)

Principal assumptions (continued)

Demographic assumptions
The most significant non-financial assumption is the assumed rate of longevity. This is based on standard actuarial tables, which for the BPP 
are known as SAPS Series 1. An allowance for future improvements in longevity has also been included. The following life expectancy 
assumptions have been used:

Current pensioners (at age 65) – males

Current pensioners (at age 65) – females

Future pensioners currently aged 45  
(at age 65) – males

Future pensioners currently aged 45  
(at age 65) – females

2015
ROI
Years

20.9

23.4

23.3

25.5

2015
NI
Years

22.2

25.0

24.0

26.6

2015
GB
Years

21.4

24.4

23.2

26.3

2014
ROI
Years

20.9

23.4

23.3

25.5

2014
NI
Years

22.2

24.9

24.0

26.4

2014 
GB
Years

21.3

24.3

23.1

26.2

The mortality assumptions used to calculate the GB pension obligation were revised in 2014 following a mortality analysis carried out as part 
of the actuarial valuation of the BPP at 31 March 2013.

For the French arrangements mortality follows the INSEE 2012 tables. As benefits are paid on retirement, the mortality assumption is of 
much less significance for these arrangements than for the GB and Irish arrangements.

Sensitivities
Changes in assumptions used for determining retirement benefit costs and obligations may have a material impact on the consolidated 
income statement and balance sheet. The main assumptions are the discount rate, the rate of inflation and the assumed mortality rate. The 
following table provides an estimate of the potential impact of each of these variables on the principal pension plans.

Assumption

Change in
assumption

Impact on ROI
liabilities

Impact on NI
liabilities

Impact on France
liabilities

Impact on GB
liabilities

Discount rate

Increase by 0.5%

Decrease by £8.1m Decrease by £2.5m Decrease by £0.2m Decrease by £55.8m

Decrease by 0.5%

Increase by £9.4m

Increase by £2.8m

Increase by £0.2m

Increase by £64.3m

Inflation rate

Increase by 0.25%*

Increase by £2.1m

Increase by £1.3m

Increase by £0.1m

Increase by £20.7m

Decrease by 0.25%* Decrease by £2.1m Decrease by £1.3m Decrease by £0.1m Decrease by £24.2m

Longevity rates

Increase by 1 year

Increase by £1.3m

Increase by £0.7m

n/a

Increase by £21.0m

* The sensitivity to inflation assumption includes corresponding changes to future salary (applicable only to France) and future pension increase assumptions.

Net benefit income/(expense)

Current service cost

Net interest on net defined benefit asset/(liability)

Curtailment gain

Net income/(expense)

Current service cost

Net interest on net defined benefit asset/(liability)

Curtailment gain

Settlement gain

Net income/(expense)

ROI
£m

(0.9)

(0.1)

0.1

(0.9)

ROI
£m

(0.8)

(0.1)

0.4

-

(0.5)

NI
£m

(0.1)

0.1

-

-

NI
£m

(0.1)

-

-

-

France
£m

(0.2)

(0.1)

-

(0.3)

France
£m

(0.1)

(0.1)

-

-

(0.1)

(0.2)

GB
£m

-

0.5

-

0.5

GB
£m

-

-

-

1.3

1.3

2015

Total
£m

(1.2)

0.4

0.1

(0.7)

2014

Total
£m

(1.0)

(0.2)

0.4

1.3

0.5

Other than stated below, the net income detailed above is recognised in arriving at net profit from continuing operations before tax and 
finance costs/income, and is included within cost of sales, selling and distribution costs and administration expenses.

109 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

ROI
£m

4.4

(1.7)

2.7

(1.2)

(1.0)

(0.4)

0.1

ROI
£m

8.5

(2.2)

6.3

4.3

(12.5)

0.4

(1.5)

ROI
£m

(61.2)

58.9

(2.3)

ROI
£m

(60.5)

58.0

(2.5)

NI
£m

1.5

(1.2)

0.3

0.9

(1.7)

1.6

1.1

NI
£m

2.8

(1.2)

1.6

(0.2)

(3.3)

0.2

(1.7)

NI
£m

(30.1)

32.6

2.5

NI
£m

(30.5)

30.4

(0.1)

France
£m

-

-

-

(0.4)

-

0.3

(0.1)

France
£m

-

-

-

-

(0.4)

-

(0.4)

France
£m

(2.8)

-

(2.8)

France
£m

(2.7)

-

(2.7)

GB
£m

42.2

(24.1)

18.1

-

(16.0)

-

2.1

GB
£m

48.0

(25.1)

22.9

16.8

(48.4)

-

(8.7)

GB
£m

(619.4)

639.3

19.9

GB
£m

(598.7)

595.6

(3.1)

2015

Total
£m

48.1

(27.0)

21.1

(0.7)

(18.7)

1.5

3.2

2014

Total
£m

59.3

(28.5)

30.8

20.9

(64.6)

0.6

(12.3)

2015

Total
£m

(713.5)

730.8

17.3

2014

Total
£m

(692.4)

684.0

(8.4)

23. Pensions (continued)

Taken to the statement of comprehensive income

Actual return on scheme assets

Less: Amounts included in net interest expense

Return on plan assets (excluding amounts included in 
net interest expense)

Gains/(losses) due to demographic assumptions

Losses due to financial assumptions

Experience gains

Remeasurement losses taken to the statement of 
comprehensive income

Actual return on scheme assets

Less: Amounts included in net interest expense

Return on plan assets (excluding amounts included in 
net interest expense)

Gains/(losses) due to demographic assumptions

Losses due to financial assumptions

Experience gains

Remeasurement losses taken to the statement of 
comprehensive income

Net (liability)/asset

Present value of benefit obligation

Fair value of plan assets

Net (liability)/asset

Present value of benefit obligation

Fair value of plan assets

Net liability

110   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

23. Pensions (continued)

Movements in present value of benefit obligation

At 28 September 2014

Exchange differences

Curtailment gain

Current service cost

Member contributions 

Interest cost on benefit obligation

Benefits paid

Remeasurement gains/(losses)

At 27 September 2015

ROI
£m

(60.5)

3.5

0.1

(0.9)

(0.2)

(1.7)

1.1

(2.6)

NI
£m

(30.5)

-

-

(0.1)

-

(1.2)

0.9

0.8

(61.2)

(30.1)

(2.7)

0.1

-

(0.2)

-

-

0.1

(0.1)

(2.8)

Weighted average duration of the liabilities 

21 years

20 years

15 years

22 years

France
£m

GB
£m

2015

Total
£m

(598.7)

(692.4)

At 29 September 2013

Exchange differences

Curtailment gain

Settlement gain

Current service cost

Member contributions 

Interest cost on benefit obligation

Benefits paid

Remeasurement gains/(losses)

At 28 September 2014

ROI
£m

(54.8)

3.7

0.4

-

(0.8)

(0.2)

(2.2)

1.2

(7.8)

NI
£m

(26.6)

-

-

-

(0.1)

-

(1.2)

0.7

(3.3)

(60.5)

(30.5)

France
£m

(2.2)

-

-

-

(0.1)

-

(0.1)

0.1

(0.4)

(2.7)

Weighted average duration of the liabilities

23 years

20 years

14 years

Movements in fair value of plan assets

At 28 September 2014

Exchange differences

Interest income on plan assets

Return on scheme assets excluding interest income

Employer contributions

Member contributions 

Benefits paid

At 27 September 2015

At 29 September 2013

Exchange differences

Interest income on plan assets

Return on scheme assets excluding interest income

Employer contributions

Member contributions 

Benefits paid

At 28 September 2014

ROI
£m

58.0

(3.4)

1.7

2.7

0.8

0.2

(1.1)

58.9

ROI
£m

53.2

(3.4)

2.1

6.3

0.8

0.2

(1.2)

58.0

NI
£m

30.4

-

1.2

0.3

1.6

-

(0.9)

32.6

NI
£m

26.7

-

1.2

1.6

1.6

-

(0.7)

30.4

France
£m

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

France
£m

0.1

-

-

-

-

-

(0.1)

-

-

-

-

-

(23.6)

18.9

(16.0)

(619.4)

GB
£m

3.6

0.1

(1.2)

(0.2)

(26.5)

21.0

(17.9)

(713.5)

2014

Total
£m

(562.4)

(646.0)

-

-

1.3

-

-

(25.1)

19.1

(31.6)

(598.7)

22 years

GB
£m

595.6

-

24.1

18.1

20.4

-

(18.9)

639.3

GB
£m

546.7

-

25.1

22.9

20.0

-

(19.1)

595.6

3.7

0.4

1.3

(1.0)

(0.2)

(28.6)

21.1

(43.1)

(692.4)

2015

Total
£m

684.0

(3.4)

27.0

21.1

22.8

0.2

(20.9)

730.8

2014

Total
£m

626.7

(3.4)

28.4

30.8

22.4

0.2

(21.1)

684.0

111 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

23. Pensions (continued)

Categories of scheme assets as a percentage of the fair value of total scheme assets

UK equities

Overseas equities

Properties

Corporate bonds

Fixed interest gilts

Index linked gilts

Cash and other assets

Total

UK equities

Overseas equities

Properties

Corporate bonds

Fixed interest gilts

Index linked gilts

Cash and other assets

Total

ROI
£m

1.9

23.2

-

-

30.1

-

3.7

58.9

ROI
£m

0.9

23.9

-

-

29.3

-

3.9

58.0

NI
£m

7.7

7.8

-

5.0

5.1

6.5

0.5

32.6

NI
£m

7.4

7.6

-

4.6

4.6

6.1

0.1

30.4

France
£m

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

France
£m

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

GB
£m

51.1

20.4

4.4

283.4

-

273.5

6.5

639.3

GB
£m

98.8

47.5

5.5

196.2

-

245.7

1.9

595.6

2015

Total
£m

60.7

51.4

4.4

288.4

35.2

280.0

10.7

730.8

2014

Total
£m

107.1

79.0

5.5

200.8

33.9

251.8

5.9

684.0

2015

Total
%

8

7

1

40

5

38

1

100

2014

Total
%

16

11

1

29

5

37

1

100

The fair values of the above equity and debt instruments are determined based on quoted market prices in active markets whereas the fair 
values of properties are not based on quoted market prices.

Normal contributions of £0.8m are expected to be paid into the defined benefit pension schemes during the 2016 financial year.

Additional contributions of £21.5m are expected to be paid into the defined benefit pension schemes during the 2016 financial year, of which 
£16.5m is expected to be paid by the group and £5.0m by the partnership.

24. Trade and other payables (current) 

Trade payables

Other payables

Accruals and deferred income

Other taxes and social security

Trade payables are non-interest bearing and are normally settled on 60-90 day terms.

2015
£m

261.9

23.6

80.7

51.2

417.4

2014
£m

248.4

4.5

81.5

45.3

379.7

112   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

25. Financial risk management objectives and policies

Overview
The group’s principal financial instruments comprise derivatives, borrowings and overdrafts, and cash and cash equivalents. These financial 
instruments are used to manage interest rate and currency exposures, funding and liquidity requirements and share price exposure arising 
under the group’s employee incentive schemes. Other financial instruments which arise directly from the group’s operations include trade 
receivables and payables (see notes 18 and 24 respectively).

It is, and has always been, the group’s policy that no derivative is entered into for trading or speculative purposes.

The main risks arising from the group’s financial instruments are interest rate risk, foreign currency risk, credit risk and liquidity risk. 
Additionally, the group is exposed to commodity price risk and share price risk. The board of directors review and agree policies for 
managing these risks as summarised below.

Interest rate risk
The group’s policy is to manage its interest cost by maintaining a mix of fixed and variable rate debt. The group’s policy is to have an average 
over the next three years of between 25% and 80% of its borrowings at fixed rates of interest. To manage this, the group enters into interest 
rate swaps, cross-currency swaps and forward rate agreements to hedge underlying debt obligations. At 27 September 2015 after taking 
into account the effect of these instruments, approximately 77% of the group’s borrowings are at a fixed rate of interest (2014: 75%).

Interest rate risk table
The following table demonstrates the sensitivity to a reasonably possible change in interest rates, with all other variables held constant, on 
the group’s profit before tax (through the impact on floating rate borrowings) and equity (through the change in fair values of applicable 
derivative instruments). 

2015

Sterling

Euro

2014

Sterling

Euro

Increase/
(decrease) in
basis points

Effect on
profit/(loss)
before tax
£m

Effect on
equity

£m

200

(200)

200

(200)

200

(200)

200

(200)

0.6

(0.6)

(1.4)

1.4

0.1

(0.1)

(0.2)

0.1

25.7

(28.8)

3.9

(4.4)

25.0

(29.1)

5.6

(6.5)

Foreign currency risk
Foreign currency risk is primarily in respect of exposure to fluctuations to the sterling/euro, sterling/US dollar and euro/US dollar rates of 
exchange. The group has operations in euro-denominated countries and finances these partly through the use of foreign currency 
borrowings and cross-currency swaps which hedge the translation risk of net investments in foreign operations. Additionally cash generation 
from euro-denominated operations can be utilised to meet euro payment obligations in sterling denominated companies, providing a natural 
hedge.

The group also has transactional exposures arising from purchases of prime materials, capital expenditure and interest costs in currencies 
other than the functional currency of the individual group entities. Non functional currency purchases and interest costs are mainly in the 
currencies of US dollars and euros. As at 27 September 2015 the group has hedged 62% (2014: 72%) of forecast net exposures 12 months 
in advance using forward foreign exchange contracts.

Where funding is raised in a currency other than the currency ultimately required by the group, cross-currency interest rate swaps are used to 
convert the cash flows to the required currency. These swaps have the same duration and other critical terms as the underlying borrowing.

The following table demonstrates the sensitivity to a reasonably possible change in the US dollar and euro exchange rates, with all other 
variables held constant, of the group’s profit before tax (due to changes in the fair value of monetary assets and liabilities) and the group’s 
equity (due to changes in fair value of forward exchange contracts).

113 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

25. Financial risk management objectives and policies (continued)

Overview (continued)

2015

Sterling/euro

Sterling/US dollar

Euro/US dollar

2014

Sterling/euro

Sterling/US dollar

Euro/US dollar

Increase/
(decrease) in
currency rate
%

Effect on
profit
before tax
£m

10

(10)

10

(10)

10

(10)

10

(10)

10

(10)

10

(10)

(1.9)

1.9

(0.4)

0.4

(0.4)

0.4

(2.1)

2.1

(0.4)

0.4

(0.5)

0.5

Effect on
equity

£m

4.5

(4.5)

1.1

(1.1)

1.4

(1.4)

4.0

(4.0)

1.0

(1.0)

1.9

(1.9)

Credit risk
The group trades only with recognised creditworthy third parties. It is the group’s policy that all customers who wish to trade on credit terms 
are subject to credit verification procedures. In addition, receivable balances are monitored on an ongoing basis with the result that the 
group’s exposure to bad debts is not significant. The maximum exposure is the carrying amount disclosed in note 18. For transactions that 
do not occur in the country of the relevant operating unit, the group does not offer credit terms without the approval of the Director of 
Finance Shared Services. There are no significant concentrations of credit risk within the group.

The group maintains a policy on counterparty credit exposures with banks and financial institutions arising from the use of derivatives and 
financial instruments. This policy restricts the investment of surplus funds and entering into derivatives to counterparties with a minimum 
credit rating maintained by either Moody’s, Standard & Poors or Fitch. The level of exposure with counterparties at various ratings levels is 
also restricted under this policy. The level of exposure and the credit worthiness of the group’s banking counterparties is reviewed regularly to 
ensure compliance with this policy.

Commodity price risk
The main commodity price risk arises in the purchases of prime materials, being polyethylene terephthalate (PET), sugar, steel and frozen 
concentrated orange juice. Where it is considered commercially advantageous, the group enters into fixed price contracts with suppliers to 
hedge against unfavourable commodity price changes.

Share schemes equity price risk
The group operates several employee incentive share schemes. It has an exposure to the share price for the schemes in which shares are 
purchased in the market to satisfy the requirements of the plan. To hedge this risk the group has entered into equity derivatives against future 
scheme maturities.

The following table demonstrates the sensitivity to a reasonably possible change in the Britvic plc share price, with all other variables held 
constant, of the group’s profit before tax (due to changes in the fair value of the equity derivatives).

2015

2014

114   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

Increase/
(decrease) in
share price
%

Effect on
profit
before tax
£m

10

(10)

10

(10)

1.0

(1.0)

0.9

(0.9)

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

25. Financial risk management objectives and policies (continued)

Overview (continued)

Liquidity risk
The group monitors its risk of a shortage of funds using rolling cash flow forecasts. These forecasts consider the maturity of both its financial 
investments and financial assets (e.g. accounts receivable, other financial assets) and projected cash flows from operations. The objective of 
the group’s liquidity policy is to maintain a balance between continuity of funds and flexibility through the use of bank loans and overdrafts 
and long-term private placement issuance. 

As part of securing the group’s medium term funding platform a £400m bank facility has been successfully refinanced during the year. The 
bank facility has a maturity of November 2020 and is unsecured. As at 27 September 2015, the group had drawn down £nil (2014: £nil) 
under this facility. In addition to this facility the group had £0.5m of outstanding external borrowings all of which were secured (2014: £1.4m 
of which £0.8m were secured).

The table below summarises the maturity profile of the group’s financial liabilities at 27 September 2015 based on contractual undiscounted 
payments and receipts including interest:

> 5 years

Total

2015

Bank loans 

Private placement notes

Derivatives hedging private placement notes - payments

Derivatives hedging private placement notes - receipts

Interest rate swap - payments

Interest rate swap - receipts

Trade and other payables (excluding other taxes and social security)

Finance leases

Other financial liabilities

Total financial liabilities

2014

Bank loans 

Private placement notes

Derivatives hedging private placement notes - payments

Derivatives hedging private placement notes - receipts

Interest rate swap - payments

Interest rate swap - receipts

Trade and other payables (excluding other taxes and social security)

Finance leases

Other financial liabilities

Total financial liabilities

Less than
1 year
£m

0.2

27.6

16.2

(25.3)

18.5

0.6

-

0.6

366.2

0.1

13.5

399.1

Less than
1 year
£m

0.8

44.8

34.9

(42.0)

37.7

1.3

(0.2)

1.1

334.4

0.1

1.6

1 to 5
years
£m

0.4

444.3

315.2

(361.5)

398.0

-

-

-

-

0.2

1.0

£m

-

206.0

156.7

(163.0)

199.7

-

-

-

-

-

-

399.6

199.7

1 to 5
years
£m

0.6

360.0

272.1

(301.7)

330.4

0.4

-

0.4

-

0.2

-

> 5 years

£m

-

277.7

226.8

(241.4)

263.1

-

-

-

-

-

-

£m

0.6

677.9

488.1

(549.8)

616.2

0.6

-

0.6

366.2

0.3

14.5

998.4

Total

£m

1.4

682.5

533.8

(585.1)

631.2

1.7

(0.2)

1.5

334.4

0.3

1.6

375.7

331.6

263.1

970.4

In respect of the private placement notes, the periods when the cash flows are expected to occur (as shown by the tables above) and when 
they are expected to affect the consolidated income statement are the same.

Details with regard to derivative contracts are included in note 26.

115 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

25. Financial risk management objectives and policies (continued)

Fair values of financial assets and financial liabilities

Hierarchy
The group uses the following valuation hierarchy to determine the carrying value of financial instruments that are measured at fair value:

Level 1:    quoted (unadjusted) prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2:    other techniques for which all inputs which have a significant effect on the recorded fair value are observable, either directly or 

indirectly.

Level 3:    techniques which use inputs which have a significant effect on the recorded fair value that are not based on observable market data.

Unless otherwise stated, the valuation basis used to calculate fair value is level 2.

Financial assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Loans and receivables

Derivative financial instruments in hedging relationships

Derivative financial instruments through profit or loss

Financial liabilities

Fixed rate borrowings

Derivative financial instruments in hedging relationships

Derivative financial instruments through profit or loss

Other financial liabilities

Fair value

Carrying value

2015
£m

239.6

268.4

101.3

-

609.3

(596.8)

(11.2)

(3.9)

(264.1)

(876.0)

2014
£m

144.0

250.0

66.5

2.6

463.1

(584.5)

(9.5)

(1.9)

(252.0)

(847.9)

2015
£m

239.6

268.4

101.3

-

609.3

(575.3)

(11.2)

(3.9)

(264.1)

(854.5)

2014
£m

144.0

250.0

66.5

2.6

463.1

(561.9)

(9.5)

(1.9)

(252.0)

(825.3)

Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market, do not 
qualify as trading assets and have not been designated as either fair value through profit or loss or available for sale. Non-derivative financial 
liabilities are carried at amortised cost.

All derivatives are valued using discounted cash flow analysis using the applicable yield curve for the duration of the instruments. Forward 
currency contracts are measured using quoted forward exchange rates and yield curves derived from quoted interest rates matching 
maturities of the contracts. Cross-currency interest rate swaps are measured at the present value of future cash flows estimated and 
discounted based on quoted forward exchange rates and the applicable yield curves derived from quoted interest rates. Equity derivatives 
are measured using share prices and yield curves derived from quoted interest rates matching maturities of the contracts. The fair value of 
derivatives also includes the non-performance risk of both Britvic and its derivatives trading counterparties. 

As in the prior year, the carrying value of financial assets and liabilities are considered to be reasonable approximations of their fair values, 
except for fixed rate borrowings.

The fair value of the group’s fixed rate interest-bearing borrowings and loans are determined by using discounted cash flow methods using 
discount rates that reflect the group’s borrowing rate as at the end of the reporting period. 

116   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

25. Financial risk management objectives and policies (continued)

Fair values of financial assets and financial liabilities (continued)

Capital management
The group defines ‘capital’ as being net debt plus equity. The group’s objectives when managing capital are to safeguard the group’s ability 
to continue as a going concern and maintain an appropriate capital structure to balance the needs of the group to grow, whilst operating 
with sufficient headroom within its bank covenants.

The following table summarises the capital of the group:

Financial assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Derivatives hedging balance sheet debt

Financial liabilities

Financial liabilities held at amortised cost

Adjusted net debt

Equity

Capital

2015
£m

(239.6)

(71.8)

575.3

263.9

211.8

475.7

2014
£m

(144.0)

(38.1)

563.0

380.9

83.1

464.0

The group’s objectives when managing capital are to safeguard the group’s ability to continue as a going concern and maintain an 
appropriate capital structure to balance the needs of the group to grow, whilst operating with sufficient headroom within its bank covenants.

The group manages its capital structure and makes adjustments to it, in light of changes in economic conditions or in order to facilitate 
acquisitions. To maintain or adjust the capital structure, the group has a number of options available to it including modifying dividend 
payments to shareholders, returning capital to shareholders or issuing new shares. In this way, the group balances returns to shareholders 
between long-term growth and current returns whilst maintaining capital discipline in relation to investing activities and taking any necessary 
action on costs to respond to the current environment.

The group monitors capital on the basis of the adjusted net debt/EBITDA ratio. Adjusted net debt is calculated as being the net of cash and 
cash equivalents, interest bearing loans and borrowings and the element of the fair value of interest rate currency swaps hedging the balance 
sheet value of the US private placement notes. Adjusted net debt is shown in note 30. The adjusted net debt/EBITDA ratio enables the 
group to plan its capital requirements in the medium term. The group uses this measure to provide useful information to financial institutions 
and investors.

117 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

26. Derivatives and hedge relationships

As at the 27 September 2015 the group had entered into the following derivative contracts.

Consolidated balance sheet

Non-current assets: derivative financial instruments

Fair value of the USD GBP cross-currency fixed interest rate swaps¹

Fair value of the USD GBP cross-currency floating interest rate swaps ³

Fair value of the GBP euro cross-currency floating interest rate swaps ²

Current assets: derivative financial instruments

Fair value of the USD GBP cross-currency fixed interest rate swaps¹

Fair value of the USD GBP cross-currency floating interest rate swaps ³

Fair value of the GBP euro cross-currency floating interest rate swaps ²

Fair value of forward currency contracts ¹

Fair value of share swaps

Current liabilities: derivative financial instruments

Fair value of forward currency contracts ¹

Fair value of forward currency contracts

Fair value of foreign exchange swaps

Fair value of interest rate swaps

Non-current liabilities: derivative financial instruments

Fair value of the USD GBP cross-currency fixed interest rate swaps¹

Fair value of the GBP euro cross-currency fixed interest rate swaps ²

Fair value of the USD GBP cross-currency floating interest rate swaps ³

Fair value of equity forwards

Fair value of interest rate swaps

¹ Instruments designated as part of a cash flow hedge relationship.
² Instruments designated as part of a net investment hedge relationship.
³ Instruments designated as part of a fair value hedge relationship. 

2015
£m

2014
£m

44.8

21.5

24.1

90.4

3.4

4.6

1.1

1.8

-

10.9

(10.9)

(1.3)

(1.3)

(0.3)

(13.8)

(0.3)

-

-

(1.0)

-

(1.3)

34.4

15.1

15.1

64.6

-

0.7

-

1.2

2.6

4.5

(1.5)

-

(0.1)

-

(1.6)

(7.0)

(0.2)

(0.9)

-

(1.8)

(9.9)

Derivatives not designated as part of hedge relationships
Interest rate swaps
The 2009 USPP cross-currency swaps converted an amount of US dollar borrowings into a floating rate euro liability. To mitigate exposure to 
changes in euro interest rates on this liability, €75.0m of interest rate swaps were transacted. These five-year fixed rate swaps had an 
effective start date of December 2010.

Equity derivatives – share swaps and equity forwards
The group operates several employee incentive share schemes. It has an exposure to the share price for the schemes in which shares are 
purchased in the market to satisfy the requirements of the plan. To hedge this risk the group entered into a number of total return share 
swaps against schemes that matured in 2014. During the current year the group entered into equity forwards against schemes that mature in 
2016 and 2017.

FX swaps
As part of operational cash management €110.8m of euro/sterling FX swaps were in existence at 27 September 2015 (2014: €127.4m).

118   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

26. Derivatives and hedge relationships (continued)

Derivatives not designated as part of hedge relationships (continued)

Forward currency contracts – Ebba 
As part of operational cash management for expected future payments BR$50.0m of BR$/sterling FX forwards were in existence at 27 
September 2015 (2014: BR$nil).

Derivatives designated as part of hedge relationships
As at the 27 September 2015 these hedging relationships are categorised as follows:

Cash flow hedges

Forward currency contracts 
The forward currency contracts hedge the expected future purchases in the period to September 2016 and have been assessed as part of 
effective cash flow hedge relationships as at 27 September 2015. All cash flows under forward currency contracts fall due within one year.

Forward currency contracts – Ebba
As part of the transaction to purchase Ebba on 30 September 2015, the group purchased forward currency contracts to hedge the FX 
movement on the purchase of the company in Brazilian Real. 

Cross-currency interest rate swaps 
USD GBP cross-currency interest rate swaps
The group has a number of cross-currency interest rate swaps relating to the 2007, 2010 and 2014 USPP Notes. These cross-currency 
interest rate swaps have the effect of fixing both the value of the USD borrowings into sterling and the rate of interest payable. The cross-
currency interest rate swaps are designated as part of a cash flow hedge relationship with the Notes.

Cash flows due under these cross-currency interest rate swaps match the interest payment dates and maturity profile of the USPP Notes. 
The maturity profile of the USPP Notes can be seen in note 22.

During the year the cash flow hedge has been tested for effectiveness and as a result a £2.1m gain (2014: £nil) has been recognised in the 
income statement in respect of ineffectiveness.

Cash flow hedge net unrealised gains/(losses) and related deferred tax assets/(liabilities):

2015

Forward currency contracts

2007 cross-currency swaps

2010 cross-currency swaps

2014 cross-currency swaps

2014

Forward currency contracts

2007 cross-currency swaps

2010 cross-currency swaps

2014 cross-currency swaps

Fair value hedges

Net unrealised
gain/(loss) within equity
£m

Related deferred tax
asset/(liability)
£m

(9.2)

3.9

(2.7)

(2.1)

1.7

(0.8)

0.5

0.4

Net unrealised
gain/(loss) within equity
£m

Related deferred tax
asset/(liability)
£m

(0.3)

5.1

(1.4)

(1.4)

(0.1)

(1.0)

0.3

0.3

Cross-currency interest rate swaps
The group has a number of cross-currency interest rate swaps in respect of the 2009 and 2010 USPP Notes. These instruments swap the 
principal and interest from fixed rate US dollar into floating rate sterling (the ‘2009 and 2010 USD GBP cross-currency interest rate swaps’). 
The cross-currency interest rate swaps are designated as part of a fair value hedge relationship with the Notes.

The fair value movements on the 2009 and 2010 USD GBP cross-currency interest rate instruments are recorded in the consolidated income 
statement, with a corresponding adjustment to the carrying value of the Notes where the hedge is deemed effective. 

The increase in fair value of the cross-currency interest rate swaps, excluding maturities, of £11.9m (2014: £4.5m decrease) has been 
recognised in finance costs and offset with a similar loss on the borrowings of £12.5m (2014: £4.5m gain). The net loss of £0.6m (2014: £nil) 
represents the ineffective portion on the hedges of the debt.

119 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

26. Derivatives and hedge relationships (continued)

Net investment hedges

2009 and 2010 GBP EUR cross-currency interest rate swaps
These instruments swap sterling liabilities arising from the 2009 and 2010 USD GBP cross-currency interest rate swaps into euro liabilities 
and have been designated as part of effective hedges of the net investments in Britvic France and Britvic Ireland.

The GBP EUR cross-currency interest rate swaps, along with the underlying loan instruments, are being used to hedge the group’s exposure 
to foreign exchange risk on these euro investments. Movements in the fair value of the GBP EUR cross-currency interest rate swaps are 
taken to equity where they offset foreign exchange movements on the translation of the net investments in Britvic France and Britvic Ireland.

No ineffectiveness has been recognised in the consolidated income statement (2014: £nil).

Impact of derivatives and hedge relationships on the consolidated statement of comprehensive income

2015
£m

2014
£m

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income

Amounts recycled to the income statement in respect of cash flow hedges

Forward currency contracts*

2007 cross-currency interest rate swaps**

2010 cross-currency interest rate swaps**

2014 cross-currency interest rate swaps**

Ineffectiveness recognised in the income statement in respect of cash flow hedges

2010 cross-currency interest rate swaps**

2014 cross-currency interest rate swaps**

Gains/(losses) in the period in respect of cash flow hedges

Forward currency contracts

2007 cross-currency interest rate swaps

2010 cross-currency interest rate swaps

2014 cross-currency interest rate swaps

Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations

Movement on 2009 GBP euro cross-currency interest rate swaps

Movement on 2010 GBP euro cross-currency interest rate swaps

Exchange movements on translation of foreign operations

* Offsetting amounts recorded in cost of sales.

** Offsetting amounts recorded in finance costs.

27. Other liabilities

Current

Non-current

Firm commitment

Other liabilities comprise of a firm commitment that arose on the receipt of the 2009 and 2010 Notes. 

120   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

(0.7)

(11.8)

(4.7)

(4.9)

(22.1)

1.5

0.6

2.1

(8.2)

10.7

3.4

4.2

10.1

6.3

3.9

(11.7)

(1.5)

2015
£m

-

1.5

1.5

(3.2)

12.5

0.5

0.7

10.5

-

-

-

4.1

(14.0)

-

(2.0)

(11.9)

9.7

1.4

(15.0)

(3.9)

2014
£m

0.4

1.5

1.9

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

28. Provisions

At 29 September 2013

Provisions made during the year

Provisions utilised during the year

Unused amounts reversed

Unwinding of discount

Exchange differences

At 28 September 2014

Provisions made during the year

Provisions utilised during the year

Unused amounts reversed

Unwinding of discount

Exchange differences

At 27 September 2015

Current

Non-current

Total

Restructuring
£m

Other
£m

8.4

6.7

(10.8)

(0.5)

-

-

3.8

0.6

(1.9)

(1.4)

-

-

1.1

1.1

-

1.1

2.1

-

(0.2)

-

0.1

(0.1)

1.9

-

(0.3)

(0.1)

0.1

(0.2)

1.4

0.2

1.2

1.4

Total
£m

10.5

6.7

(11.0)

(0.5)

0.1

(0.1)

5.7

0.6

(2.2)

(1.5)

0.1

(0.2)

2.5

1.3

1.2

2.5

Restructuring provisions
Restructuring provisions at 27 September 2015 and 28 September 2014, primarily relate to contract termination costs, consultation fees and 
employee termination benefits, recognised by the group following the implementation of cost initiatives announced in May 2013.

Other provisions
Other provisions at 27 September 2015 and 28 September 2014, primarily relate to onerous lease provisions that have arisen due to the exit 
of certain group premises, and the period over which these will be settled ranges from one to eight years.

29. Share-based payments

Britvic operates a broad base of employee plans as well as executive plans. In GB Britvic operates SIP plans for all employees, whereas 
outside of GB Britvic operates both share-settled and cash-settled plans. Executives participate in ESOP and PSP plans and senior 
leadership team participates in PSP plans.

The expense recognised for share-based payments in respect of employee services received during the 52 weeks ended 27 September 
2015, including national insurance of £2.4m (2014: £1.8m) is £10.6m (2014: £9.1m). This expense arises from transactions which are 
expected to be equity-settled share-based payment transactions. 

The Britvic Share Incentive Plan (‘SIP’)
The SIP is an all-employee HMRC approved share plan open to employees based in GB. Employees are entitled to receive the annual free 
share award, where granted by the group, provided they are employed by the company on the last day of each financial year and on the 
award date. Employees cannot sell these shares for three years from their date of award. There are no cash settlement alternatives. 
Employees also have the opportunity to invest up to £138 every four weeks (£1,800 per year) through the partnership share scheme. This is 
deducted from their gross salary. Matching shares are offered on the basis of one free matching share for each ordinary share purchased 
with a participant’s savings, up to a maximum of £50 (2014: £50) per four weeks pay period.

Awards made during the period are shown in the table below. The fair value of these awards is equivalent to the intrinsic value of the shares.

Annual free shares award

Matching shares award – 1 free share for every ordinary share purchased

2015
No. of 
shares

2015
Weighted 
average fair 
value

2014
No. of  
shares

316,288

108,421

655.1p

700.1p

290,882

115,377

2014
Weighted 
average fair 
value

692.1p

689.0p

121 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

29. Share-based payments (continued)

The Britvic Executive Share Option Plan (‘ESOP’)
The ESOP allows for options to buy ordinary shares to be granted to executives. The option price is the average market price of Britvic plc’s 
shares on the three business days before the date of grant. Options become exercisable on the satisfaction of the performance condition 
and remain exercisable until ten years after the date of grant.

Options granted in 2015
The performance condition requires the increase in EPS of 6%-12% pa compound over a three-year performance period for the options to vest. 
If the EPS growth is 6%, 20% of the options will vest, with full vesting at 12% EPS growth. Straight-line apportionment will be applied between 
these two levels to determine the number of options that vest and no options will vest if the EPS growth is below the lower threshold.

Options granted in 2014 and 2013
The performance condition requires the growth in EPS of 3%-7% pa compound over a three-year performance period in excess of the 
average growth in RPI over the same period for the options to vest. If EPS growth is 3% per annum in excess of RPI growth, 25% of the 
options will vest, with full vesting at 7% EPS growth. Straight-line apportionment will be applied between these two levels to determine the 
number of options that vest, and no options will vest if the EPS growth is below the lower threshold.

In some circumstances, at the discretion of the company, an option holder who exercises his/her option may receive a cash payment rather 
than the ordinary shares under option. The cash payment would be equal to the amount by which the market value of the ordinary shares 
under option exceeds the option price. However, it is expected that this plan will be equity-settled and as a consequence has been 
accounted for as such.

The following table illustrates the movements in the number of share options during the period:

Number of
share options

Weighted average
exercise price
(pence)

Outstanding at 29 September 2013

Granted 

Exercised 

Forfeited 

Lapsed 

Outstanding at 28 September 2014

Granted 

Exercised 

Forfeited 

Lapsed 

Outstanding at 27 September 2015

Exercisable at 27 September 2015

7,235,772

858,126

(1,249,325)

(195,906)

(1,306,732)

5,341,935

1,007,632

(1,232,994)

(31,844)

(466,483)

4,618,246

1,506,121

347.1

664.5

281.9

400.2

464.6

383.9

671.0

303.2

639.1

331.6

471.5

268.9

The weighted average share price for share options exercised during the period was 711.8p (2014: 656.2p).

The share options outstanding as at 27 September 2015 had a weighted average remaining contractual life of 6.9 years (2014: 6.9 years) 
and the range of exercise prices was 221.0p – 671.0p (2014: 221.0p – 664.5p).

The weighted average fair value of options granted during the period was 101.3p (2014: 127.6p).

The fair value of equity-settled share options granted is estimated as at the date of grant using a binomial model, taking account of the terms 
and conditions upon which the options were granted.

The Britvic Performance Share Plan (‘PSP’)
The PSP allows for awards of ordinary shares or nil cost options to be made to selected employees with vesting subject to the satisfaction of 
performance conditions, where different performance conditions apply to different groups of employees. Awards up to and including 2008, 
and 2013 and later were made in respect of ordinary shares. Awards granted between 2009 and 2011 were nil cost options. Nil cost options 
remain exercisable until seven or ten years after the date of grant for employees based in Ireland and UK respectively, whereas awards of 
ordinary shares are exercised when vested.

Awards granted in 2015
The performance condition applied to awards granted to members of the senior leadership team is divided 75% and 25% between EPS and 
the total shareholder return (TSR) performance conditions respectively. EPS is the only condition applied to awards granted to senior 
management team. The EPS condition is the same as described in the ESOP section for options granted in 2015. 

The TSR condition measures the company’s TSR relative to a comparator group (consisting of 18 companies) over a three-year performance 
period. The awards will not vest unless the company’s position in the comparator group is at least median. At median 20% will vest, rising on 
a straight-line basis to 100% vesting at upper quartile.

122   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

29. Share-based payments (continued)

The Britvic Performance Share Plan (‘PSP’) (continued)

Awards granted in 2014
The performance condition applied to awards granted to members of the senior leadership team is divided equally between return on 
invested capital (ROIC) and TSR performance conditions. EPS is the only condition applied to awards granted to senior management team. 
The EPS condition is the same as described in the ESOP section for options granted in 2014.

The ROIC performance condition requires the company’s three-year average ROIC to be at least 23.8% for the award to vest in full. If ROIC 
is 23.4% over the performance period, 25% of the award will vest. Straight-line apportionment will be applied between these two levels to 
determine the percentage of awards that vest and no awards will vest if ROIC is below the lower threshold. 

In some circumstances, at the discretion of the company, vested awards may be satisfied by a cash payment rather than a transfer of 
ordinary shares. However, it is expected that this plan will be equity-settled and as a consequence has been accounted for as such.

The following tables illustrate the movements in the number of PSP shares and nil cost options during the period.

Number of shares and nil cost 
options subject to specific 
conditions

TSR condition

EPS condition

ROIC condition

Outstanding at 29 September 2013

1,073,682

Granted 

Forfeited 

Lapsed 

Outstanding at 28 September 2014

Granted 

Exercised

Forfeited 

Lapsed 

Outstanding at 27 September 2015

191,610

(49,450)

(299,594)

916,248

174,142

(292,376)

(7,086)

-

790,928

2,148,089

516,014

(148,530)

(479,426)

2,036,147

861,161

(337,124)

(55,990)

(263,209)

2,240,985

1,073,679

191,610

(49,450)

(299,594)

916,245

10,365

(22,455)

(4,376)

(398,169)

501,610

Weighted average remaining contracted life in years for nil cost options outstanding at:

27 September 2015

28 September 2014

Weighted average fair value of nil cost options granted during the period:

2015

2014

 6.2

8.0

5.7

7.8

-

8.0

361.3p

355.9p

648.0p

624.2p

-

624.2p

Key assumptions used to determine the fair value of ESOP and PSP
The fair value of options and awards granted is estimated as at the date of grant, taking account of the terms and conditions upon which 
shares options were granted. The fair value of the award subject to the TSR condition is determined using a Monte Carlo simulation. The fair 
value of all other awards is calculated using the share price at the date of grant, adjusted for dividends not received during the vesting period.

The following table lists the inputs to the model used in respect of the PSP awards and ESOP options granted during the financial year:

Dividend yield (%)

Expected volatility (%)

Risk-free interest rate (%)

Expected life of option (years)

Share price at date of grant (pence)

Exercise price (pence)

2015

3.84

26.5

0.7 – 1.2

3 - 5

648.0

671.0

2014

4.15

29.8

0.8

3 - 5

664.0

664.5

The expected volatility reflects the assumption that the historical volatility is indicative of future trends, which may also not necessarily be the 
actual outcome.

123 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

30. Notes to the consolidated cash flow statement

Analysis of net debt

Cash and cash equivalents

Bank overdrafts

Debt due within one year

Debt due after more than one year

Derivatives hedging the balance sheet debt *

Adjusted net debt

Cash and cash equivalents

Bank overdrafts

Debt due within one year

Debt due after more than one year

Derivatives hedging the balance sheet debt *

Adjusted net debt

2014

Cash flows

£m

144.0

(0.7)

(22.4)

(539.9)

(419.0)

38.1

(380.9)

£m

96.0

0.6

19.0

-

115.6

-

115.6

Exchange
differences
£m

Other
movement
£m

(0.4)

0.1

0.3

(34.0)

(34.0)

33.7

(0.3)

-

-

0.2

1.5

1.7

-

1.7

2013

Cash flows

£m

94.0

(2.5)

(91.6)

(458.3)

(458.4)

56.1

(402.3)

£m

50.4

1.6

76.6

(105.8)

22.8

-

22.8

Exchange
differences
£m

Other
movement
£m

(0.4)

0.2

11.4

6.6

17.8

(18.0)

(0.2)

-

-

(18.8)

17.6

(1.2)

-

(1.2)

2015

£m

239.6

-

(2.9)

(572.4)

(335.7)

71.8

(263.9)

2014

£m

144.0

(0.7)

(22.4)

(539.9)

(419.0)

38.1

(380.9)

*    Represents the element of the fair value of interest rate currency swaps hedging the balance sheet value of the Notes. This amount has been disclosed separately to 

demonstrate the impact of foreign exchange movements which are included in debt due after more than one year.

31. Commitments and contingencies

Operating lease commitments
Future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases are as follows:

Land and
buildings
£m

2.4

11.0

29.5

42.9

Land and
buildings
£m

2.3

10.0

39.0

51.3

Other

£m

8.2

6.9

0.1

15.2

Other

£m

8.6

14.6

-

23.2

2015

Total

£m

10.6

17.9

29.6

58.1

2014

Total

£m

10.9

24.6

39.0

74.5

Within one year

After one year but not more than five years

After more than five years

Within one year

After one year but not more than five years

After more than five years

124   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

31. Commitments and contingencies (continued)

Finance lease commitments
Future minimum lease payments under finance leases are as follows:

Within one year

After one year but not more than five years

2015
£m

0.1

0.2

0.3

2014
£m

0.1

0.2

0.3

Due to the timing of the expiry of the finance lease commitments, there is no material difference between the total future minimum lease 
payments and their fair value.

Capital commitments
At 27 September 2015, the group had commitments of £8.9m (2014: £3.6m) relating to the acquisition of new plant and machinery.

Contingent liabilities
The group had no material contingent liabilities at 27 September 2015 (2014: none).

125 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

32. Related party disclosures

The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of Britvic plc and the subsidiaries listed in the table below. 

Name

Principal activity

Country of 
incorporation

% equity 
interest

Directly held
Britannia Soft Drinks Limited
Britvic Finance No 2 Limited
Indirectly held
Britvic EMEA Limited
Britvic Soft Drinks Limited
Robinsons Soft Drinks Limited
Orchid Drinks Limited
Red Devil Energy Drinks Limited
Britvic International Investments Limited
Britvic Overseas Limited
Britvic Pensions Limited
Britvic Property Partnership
Britvic Brands LLP
Britvic Asset Company No.1 Limited
Britvic Asset Company No.2 Limited
Britvic Asset Company No.3 Limited
Britvic Asset Company No.4 Limited
Britvic Finance Partnership LLP
Robinsons (Finance) No.2 Limited
Britvic Scottish Limited Partnership
Britvic Finance Limited
Britvic Irish Holdings Limited
Britvic Ireland Limited
Britvic Northern Ireland Limited
Aquaporte Limited
Britvic Americas Limited
Britvic Ireland Pension Trust Limited
Robinsons (Finance) Limited
Counterpoint Wholesale (Ireland) Limited
Counterpoint Wholesale (NI) Limited
Britvic Northern Ireland Pensions Trust Ltd
Britvic North America LLC
Britvic France SNC
Fruité Entreprises SAS
Fruité SAS
Bricfruit SAS
Unisource SAS
Teisseire SAS
Teisseire Benelux SA
Britvic Asia PTE. Ltd
Britvic India Manufacturing Private Ltd.
Britvic International Support Services Ltd
Greenbank Drinks Company Limited
The Really Wild Drinks Company Limited
H. D. Rawlings Limited
R. White & Sons Limited
Idris Limited
The Southern Table Water Company Ltd
Britvic Corona Limited
Britvic Beverages Limited
Sunfresh Soft Drinks Limited 
The London Essence Company Limited
Hooper, Struve & Company Limited
British Vitamin Products Limited
Britvic Healthcare Trustee Limited
Britvic Licensed Wholesale Limited
Britvic Munster Limited
Britannia Brasil Holdings Limitada

126   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

Holding company
Financing company

Marketing and distribution of soft drinks
Manufacture and sale of soft drinks
Holding company
Brand licence holder
Brand licence holder
Holding company
Holding company
Dormant
Pension funding vehicle
Pension funding vehicle
Pension funding vehicle
Pension funding vehicle
Pension funding vehicle
Pension funding vehicle
Financing company
Financing company
Pension funding vehicle
Financing company
Holding company
Manufacture and marketing of soft drinks
Marketing and distribution of soft drinks
Supply of water-coolers and bottled water
Marketing and distribution of soft drinks
Pension trust company
Financing company
Wholesale of soft drinks to the licensed trade
Wholesale of soft drinks to the licensed trade
Pension trust company
Marketing and distribution of soft drinks
Holding partnership
Holding company
Manufacture and sale of soft drinks
Manufacture and sale of soft drinks
Manufacture and sale of soft drinks
Manufacture and sale of soft drinks
Marketing and distribution of soft drinks
Holding company
Manufacture and sale of soft drinks
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Holding company

England and Wales
Jersey

England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
Scotland
Jersey
Republic of Ireland
Republic of Ireland
Republic of Ireland
Republic of Ireland
Republic of Ireland
Republic of Ireland
Republic of Ireland
Republic of Ireland
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland
USA
France
France
France
France
France
France
France
Singapore
India
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
Republic of Ireland
Republic of Ireland
Brazil

100
100

100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100

financial statements notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

32. Related party disclosures (continued)

Key management personnel are deemed to be the executive and non-executive directors of the company and members of the Executive 
Committee. The compensation payable to key management in the period is detailed below.

Short-term employee benefits

Post-employment benefits

Share-based payments

2015
£m

6.1

0.1

2.0

8.2

2014
£m

6.7

0.2

1.5

8.4

See note 8 for details of directors’ emoluments.

There were no other related party transactions requiring disclosure in these financial statements.

33. Acquisition of subsidiary

Subsequent to the period end, on 30 September 2015, the group acquired 100% of the issued share capital of the company detailed below. 
The acquisition is in line with the strategic direction of the group, specifically to pursue international expansion by capitalising on global 
opportunities in the kids, family and adult categories, where Britvic has the leading brands in its core markets.

Name

Status

Principal activity

Empresa Brasileira de Bebidas e Alimentos SA (Ebba)

Trading

Manufacture and sale of soft drinks

The consideration for the acquisition comprises an initial cash consideration of BR$193.8m (£32.4m) and a deferred consideration of 
BR$193.8m (£32.4m) due on 30 September 2017. In addition there was a repayment of Ebba debt of BR$192.5m (£32.1m) subsequent to 
acquisition.

Due to the recent nature of the acquisition, control of Ebba only passed to Britvic after the year end and therefore the exercise to determine 
the initial fair value/acquisition accounting has not yet been completed.

In addition to the cost of investment outlined above, acquisition costs of £6.5m have been incurred in the current period. These have been 
included within exceptional and other items (see note 5).

127 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementscompany balance sheet

For the 52 weeks ended 28 September 2014

Non-current assets

Investments in group undertakings

Derivative financial instruments

Current assets

Trade and other receivables

Derivative financial instruments

Cash and cash equivalents

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Interest bearing loans and borrowings

Derivative financial instruments

Other current liabilities

Net current assets

Total assets less current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Interest bearing loans and borrowings

Derivative financial instruments

Other non-current liabilities

Net assets

Capital and reserves

Issued share capital

Share premium account

Own shares reserve

Hedging reserve

Merger reserve

Retained earnings

Equity shareholders’ funds

Note

6

11

8

11

9

10

11

12

10

11

12

13,14

14

14

14

14

14

2015
£m

768.4

90.4

858.8

163.9

9.2

87.8

260.9

(81.1)

(37.2)

(11.8)

-

(130.1)

130.8

989.6

2014
£m

757.8

64.6

822.4

160.1

0.7

-

160.8

(65.3)

(26.1)

(0.1)

(0.4)

(91.9)

68.9

891.3

(571.9)

(539.1)

(0.3)

(1.5)

(9.9)

(1.5)

(573.7)

(550.5)

415.9

340.8

52.2

123.2

(11.4)

(0.8)

87.3

165.4

415.9

49.4

33.5

(2.9)

2.2

87.3

171.3

340.8

The financial statements were approved by the board of directors and authorised for issue on 24 November 2015. They were signed on its 
behalf by:

Simon Litherland 

John Gibney

128   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements 
notes to the company 
financial statements

1.  Parent undertaking

The financial statements are prepared under the historical cost convention except for the measurement of derivative instruments at fair value. 
They have been drawn up to comply with applicable accounting standards in accordance with the Companies Act 2006. 

These accounts have been prepared under UK Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and present information about the company as an 
individual undertaking, and not about its group.

The company has taken advantage of the exemption permitted by section 408 of the Companies Act 2006 not to publish its individual profit 
and loss account and related notes.

The company is exempt from the requirements of Financial Reporting Standard No.1 (Revised) ‘Cash Flow Statements’.

2.  Accounting policies

Investments
The company recognises its investments in subsidiaries at cost less any provisions made for impairment.

In respect of FRS 20 ‘Share-based payment’, the company records an increase in its investment in subsidiaries to reflect the share-based 
compensation expense recorded by its subsidiaries.

Interest bearing loans and borrowings
Interest bearing loans and borrowings are initially recognised at fair value less directly attributable transaction costs and are subsequently 
measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method or at fair value.

Finance costs arising from the outstanding loan balance and finance charges are charged to the profit and loss account using an effective 
interest rate method.

Foreign currencies
Transactions in foreign currencies are recorded at the rate ruling at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in 
foreign currencies are translated at the rate of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. All differences are taken to the profit and loss 
account.

Issued share capital
Ordinary shares are classified as equity.

Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or options are shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax, from the 
proceeds.

Dividends
Dividend income is recognised when the company’s right to receive payment is established. Final dividends are recorded in the financial 
statements in the period in which they are approved by the company’s shareholders. Interim dividends are recorded in the period in which 
they are declared.

Deferred taxation
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognised, subject to certain exceptions, in respect of all material timing differences between the 
recognition of gains and losses in the financial statements and for tax purposes. Those timing differences recognised include accelerated 
capital allowances, unrelieved tax losses and short-term timing differences. Timing differences not recognised include those relating to the 
revaluation of fixed assets in the absence of a commitment to sell the assets, the gain on sale of assets rolled into replacement assets and 
the distribution of profits from overseas subsidiaries in the absence of any commitment by the subsidiary to make the distribution.

Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is regarded as more likely than not that they will be recovered and to the extent that it 
is regarded as probable that future taxable profits will be available against which temporary differences can be utilised.

Deferred tax is measured on a non-discounted basis at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the periods in which timing differences 
reverse, based on tax rates and laws enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.

129 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic reportfinancial statements financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the company financial statements continued

2.  Accounting policies (continued)

Derivative financial instruments and hedging 
The company uses cross-currency interest rate swaps to hedge its risks associated with foreign currency and interest rate fluctuations 
classified as cash flow hedges (when hedging exposure to variability in cash flows that is either attributable to a particular risk associated with 
a recognised asset or liability or a highly probable forecast transaction). All derivative financial instruments are initially recognised and 
subsequently remeasured at fair value. Derivatives are carried as assets when the fair value is positive and as liabilities when the fair value is 
negative. 

For those derivatives designated as hedges and for which hedge accounting is desired, the hedging relationship is documented at its 
inception. This documentation identifies the hedging instrument, the hedged item or transaction, the nature of the risk being hedged and 
how effectiveness will be measured throughout its duration. Such hedges are expected at inception to be highly effective.

Any gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value of derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are taken to the profit and 
loss account. The treatment of gains and losses arising from revaluing interest rate swaps designated as hedging instruments is as follows: 

For cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the hedging instrument is recognised directly in equity, while the ineffective 
portion is recognised in the profit and loss account. Amounts taken to equity are transferred to the profit and loss account when the hedged 
transaction affects profit or loss, such as when a forecast sale or purchase occurs.

If a forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, amounts previously recognised in equity are transferred to the profit and loss 
account. If the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised without replacement or rollover, or if its designation as a hedge 
is revoked, amounts previously recognised in equity remain in equity until the forecast transaction occurs and are transferred to the profit and 
loss account. If the related transaction is not expected to occur, the amount is taken to the profit and loss account. 

For fair value hedges, the gain or loss on the fair value of the hedging instrument is recognised in the profit and loss account. The gain or loss 
on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk shall adjust the carrying amount of the hedged item and be recognised in the profit and 
loss account. If the hedge relationship was ineffective the hedged item would no longer be adjusted and the fair value gain or loss on the 
hedging instrument would continue to be recorded in the profit and loss account.

3.  Auditor’s remuneration

Auditor’s remuneration has been borne by another group undertaking. For further details, refer to note 7 of the consolidated financial 
statements.

4.  Profit of the company

The company made a profit of £44.4m in the period (2014: profit £152.3m).

5.  Directors’ remuneration

The remuneration of the directors of the company is borne by another group company.

Directors’ emoluments

Aggregate gains made by directors on exercise of options

Number of directors accruing benefits under defined benefit schemes

6.  Investments in group undertakings

Cost and net book value at the beginning of the period

Capital contribution

Cost and net book value at the end of the period

2015
£m

2.4

-

2015
No.

-

2015
£m

757.8

10.6

768.4

2014
£m

2.5

1.5

2014
No.

-

2014
£m

748.7

9.1

757.8

The list of the subsidiary undertakings of which Britvic plc is, either directly or through subsidiary companies, the beneficial owner of the 
whole of the equity share capital is given in note 32 of the consolidated financial statements. 

130   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements notes to the company financial statements continued

7.  Deferred tax

Opening balance

Profit and loss account

Closing balance

8.  Trade and other receivables

Amounts due from subsidiary undertakings

9.  Trade and other payables

Amounts due to subsidiary undertakings

Accruals and deferred income

10. Interest bearing loans and borrowings

Current

Bank overdrafts

Private placement notes

Un-amortised issue costs

Total current

Non-current

Private placement notes

Un-amortised issue costs

Total non-current

2015
£m

-

-

-

2015
£m

163.9

2015
£m

75.2

5.9

81.1

2015
£m

(34.5)

(3.4)

0.7

(37.2)

(574.0)

2.1

(571.9)

2014
£m

0.7

(0.7)

-

2014
£m

160.1

2014
£m

62.9

2.4

65.3

2014
£m

(4.6)

(21.8)

0.3

(26.1)

(540.1)

1.0

(539.1)

Private placement notes
The group holds loan notes with coupons and maturities as shown in the following table:

Year issued

Maturity date

Amount

Interest terms

2007

2007

2009

2010

2010

2014

2014

February 2019

February 2017 – February 2019

December 2016 – December 2019

December 2017

December 2017 – December 2022

February 2021 – February 2024

February 2024 – February 2026

£13m

$273m

$220m

£7.5m

$163m

£35m

$114m

UK£ fixed at 5.94%

US$ fixed at 5.90% - 6.00%

US$ fixed at 4.77% - 5.24%

UK£ fixed at 3.74%

US$ fixed at 3.45% - 4.14%

UK£ fixed at 3.40% - 3.92%

US$ fixed at 4.09% - 4.24%

The group entered into a number of cross-currency swap agreements in relation to the loan notes to manage any foreign exchange risk on 
interest rates or on the repayment of the principal borrowed. These swaps expire in line with the loan notes and are discussed in note 26 of 
the consolidated financial statements.

See note 25 of the consolidated financial statements for an analysis of the interest rate profile and the maturity of the borrowings and related 
interest rate swaps.

Partial repayment of 2009 Notes
On 17 December 2014, in line with the maturity profile of the 2009 Notes, Britvic plc repaid US$30m (equivalent to £18.0m) in the United 
States private placement market (USPP).

131 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statementsfinancial statements notes to the company financial statements continued

11.  Derivative financial instruments

Derivative financial instruments: non-current

USD GBP cross-currency fixed interest rate swaps

USD GBP cross-currency floating interest rate swaps 

GBP euro cross-currency floating interest rate swaps 

Derivative financial instruments: current

USD GBP cross-currency fixed interest rate swaps

USD GBP cross-currency floating interest rate swaps 

GBP euro cross-currency floating interest rate swaps 

Forward currency contracts

Derivative financial instruments: current

Foreign exchange swaps

Forward currency contracts

Interest rate swaps

Derivative financial instruments: non-current

USD GBP cross-currency fixed interest rate swaps

GBP euro cross-currency fixed interest rate swaps

USD GBP cross-currency floating interest rate swaps

Interest rate swaps

12.  Other non-current liabilities

Current

Non-current

Firm commitment

A firm commitment exists in respect of the receipt of the 2009 and 2010 Notes. 

13. Issued share capital

2015
£m

44.8

21.5

24.1

90.4

3.4

4.6

1.1

0.1

9.2

(0.1)

(11.4)

(0.3)

(11.8)

(0.3)

-

-

-

(0.3)

2014
£m

34.4

15.1

15.1

64.6

-

0.7

-

-

0.7

(0.1)

-

-

(0.1)

(7.0)

(0.2)

(0.9)

(1.8)

(9.9)

2015

2014

£m

-

1.5

1.5

£m

0.4

1.5

1.9

The issued share capital is wholly comprised of ordinary shares carrying one voting right each. The nominal value of each ordinary share is 
£0.20. There are no restrictions placed on the distribution of dividends, or the return of capital on a winding up or otherwise. 

Issued, called up and fully paid
ordinary shares 

At 29 September 2013

Shares issued

At 28 September 2014

Shares issued 

At 27 September 2015

No. of shares

245,091,028

2,138,087

247,229,115 

13,910,737

261,139,852

Value
£

49,018,205

427,618

49,445,823 

2,782,147

52,227,970

Of the issued and fully paid ordinary shares, 1,678,637 shares (2014: 409,725 shares) are own shares held by an employee benefit trust. 
This equates to £335,727 (2014: £81,945) at £0.20 par value of each ordinary share. These shares are held for the purpose of satisfying the 
share schemes detailed in note 29 of the consolidated financial statements.

An explanation of the group’s capital management process and objectives is set out in note 25 of the consolidated financial statements.

132   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

financial statements notes to the company financial statements continued

14. Reconciliation of movement in equity shareholders’ funds

At 28 September 2014

Profit for the year

Issue of shares

Own shares purchased for share schemes

Own shares utilised for share schemes

Movement in share based schemes

Movement in cash flow hedges

Payment of dividend

At 27 September 2015

Issued 
share 
capital
£m

Share 
premium 
account
£m

Own 
shares 
reserve
£m

49.4

-

2.8

-

-

-

-

-

33.5

-

89.7

-

-

-

-

-

(2.9)

-

(2.1)

(13.4)

7.0

-

-

-

52.2

123.2

(11.4)

Hedging 
reserve

 Merger 
reserve

Retained 
earnings*

£m

2.2

-

-

-

-

-

(3.0)

-

(0.8)

£m

87.3

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

87.3

£m

171.3

44.4

-

-

(5.6)

8.2

-

(52.9)

165.4

Total

£m

340.8

44.4

90.4

(13.4)

1.4

8.2

(3.0)

(52.9)

415.9

* The retained earnings balance has been amalgamated with the share scheme reserve.

15. Dividends paid and proposed

Declared and paid during the period

Equity dividends on ordinary shares

  Final dividend for 2014: 14.8p per share (2013: 13.0p per share)

Interim dividend for 2015: 6.7p per share (2014: 6.1p per share)

Dividends paid

Proposed 

  Final dividend for 2015: 16.3p per share (2014: 14.8p per share)

16. Contingent liabilities

The company is co-guarantor of the group’s bank loan and overdraft facilities.

17. Related party transactions

2015
£m

2014
£m

36.4

16.5

52.9

42.6

31.8

15.0

46.8

36.3

The company has taken advantage of the exemption under FRS 8 available to a parent company not to disclose transactions with its wholly 
owned subsidiaries within its financial statements.

133 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report financial statements 
136  Shareholder information
138  Glossary

134   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

135 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report other informationother information 

shareholder information 
Shareholder profile as at 27 September 2015 

Range of holdings

1-199

200-499

500-999

1,000-4,999

5,000-9,999

10,000-49,999

50,000-99,999

100,000-499,999

500,000-999,999

1,000,000 plus

Number of  
shareholders

Percentage of total 
shareholders

Ordinary shares  
(million)

Percentage of  
issued share capital

224

287

443

1,002

216

189

74

127

39

49

8.45%

10.83%

16.72%

37.81%

8.15%

7.13%

2.79%

4.80%

1.47%

1.85%

2,650

100.00%

14,972

94,708

308,632

2,118,858

1,424,848

4,330,781

5,271,650

29,271,351

28,241,148

190,062,904

261,139,852

0.01%

0.04%

0.12%

0.81%

0.54%

1.66%

2.02%

11.21%

10.81%

72.78%

100.00%

Category

Private individuals

Nominee companies

Limited and public limited companies

Other corporate bodies

Pension funds, insurance companies and banks

Number of  
shareholders

Percentage of total 
shareholders

Ordinary shares  
(million)

Percentage of  
issued share capital

1,554

546

503

44

3

58.64%

20.61%

18.98%

1.66%

0.11%

4,492,269

213,608,620

25,829,102

17,160,987

48,874

1.72%

81.80%

9.89%

6.57%

0.02%

2,650

100.00%

261,139,852

100.00%

Interim

Final

Dividend mandates
Shareholders who wish dividends to be paid directly into a bank or 
building society account should contact the Registrar for a dividend 
mandate form or the form can be downloaded from the company’s 
website: www.britvic.com/investors/shareholder-centre/dividends 

This method of payment removes the risk of delay or loss of 
dividend cheques in the post and ensures that your account is 
credited on the due date. 

Dividend reinvestment plan (DRIP) 
Shareholders can choose to reinvest dividends received to purchase 
further shares in the company through the company’s DRIP. A DRIP 
application form is available via the Registrar or for download from 
the company’s website 

Payment date

10 July 2015

5 February 2016

Amount per share

6.7p

16.3p

Share dealing services
The company’s Registrar, Equiniti Financial Services Limited, offer a 
telephone and internet dealing service, Shareview, which provides  
a simple and convenient way of buying and selling shares.  
For telephone dealings call 03456 037 037 between 8.00am and 
4.30pm, Monday to Friday, and for internet dealings log onto  
www.shareview.co.uk/dealing 

Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) 
ISAs in Britvic plc ordinary shares are available through Equiniti 
Financial Services Limited. Further information may be obtained 
through their ISA helpline, telephone 0345 300 0430. 

136   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

 
 
other information shareholder information continued

Contacts
The Company Secretary is Clare Thomas. 

The registered office is:  
Breakspear Park  
Breakspear Way  
Hemel Hempstead  
Hertfordshire  
HP2 4TZ 

Telephone:   +44 (0)1442 284411
+44 (0)1442 284402
Fax:  

website www.britvic.com 

Shareholder inquiries to the Company Secretary can also 
be submitted to company.secretariat@britvic.com

Investor Relations enquiries can be submitted to:  
investors@britvic.com 

This report is available to download via the company’s website 
http://www.britvic.com/investors/results-and-presentations/2015 

The company’s Registrar is:  
Equiniti 
Aspect House 
Spencer Road 
Lancing 
West Sussex  
BN99 6DA

Telephone:    0371 384 2550* (UK callers)  

+44 121 415 7019 (non-UK callers)

*  For those with hearing difficulties, a textphone is available on 
0371 384 2255 for UK callers with compatible equipment. 

American Depository Receipts (ADRs)
Britvic American Depository Receipts are traded on the Over The 
Counter (OTC) market under the symbol BTVCY. One ADR 
represents two Britvic plc ordinary shares. This is a sponsored Level 
1 ADR programme for which The Bank of New York Mellon acts as 
both Depositary Bank and Registrar. For the issuance and management 
of ADRs and any general ADR questions, please contact:

The Bank of New York Mellon 
Investor Services 
P.O. Box 11258 
Church Street Station 
New York, NY 10286-1258  
USA

Investor helpline:   +1-888-BNY-ADRs (USA caller, toll free) 

Email:   

+1 201 680 6825 (non-USA caller)
shrrelations@bnymellon.com

Website:  

http://www.bnymellon.com/shareowner

Warning to shareholders – boiler room 
fraud and other investment scams
Share or investment scams are often run from ‘boiler rooms’ where 
fraudsters cold call investors offering them worthless, overpriced or 
even non-existent shares, or offer to buy their shares in a company 
at a higher price than the market value. Shareholders are advised to 
be very wary of any unsolicited advice, offers to buy shares at a 
discount, or offers of free reports about the company. Even 
seasoned investors have been caught out by such fraudsters and it 
is estimated that £200m is lost in this way in the UK each year.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) have some helpful information 
about such scams on their website, including tips to protect your 
savings and how to report a suspected investment scam. Britvic 
encourages shareholders to read the information on the site which can 
be accessed at www.fca.org.uk/consumers/scams/investment-scams

Financial calendar 

Ex-dividend date

Record date

3 December 2015 

4 December 2015 

Annual general meeting

27 January 2016

Payment of final dividend

5 February 2016 

Interim results announcement

19 May 2016

Electronic communications
Shareholders can elect to receive shareholder documents electronically 
by registering with Shareview at www.shareview.co.uk This will save 
on printing and distribution costs, creating environmental benefits. 
When you register, you will be sent an email notification to say when 
shareholder documents are available on our website and you will be 
provided with a link to that information. When registering, you will 
need your shareholder reference number which can be found on 
your share certificate or proxy form. Please contact Equiniti if you 
require any assistance or further information.

137 

Britvic plc Annual Report 2015 governance financial statements other information strategic report other information 
other information 

glossary 

Key performance indicators
•  Volume is defined as number of litres sold, excluding factored 

Others
•  Where appropriate, comparisons are quoted using constant 

exchange rates. Constant currency change removes the impact of 
exchange rate movements during the period by retranslating prior 
year foreign currency denominated results of the group at current 
period exchange rates to aid comparability.

•  All numbers quoted are pre-exceptional and other items, unless 

otherwise stated.

brands sold by Counterpoint in Ireland. No volume is recorded  
in respect of international concentrate sales.

•  ARP is defined as average revenue per litre sold, excluding 

factored brands and concentrate sales.

•  Revenue is defined as sales achieved by the group net of price 

promotional investment and retailer discounts.

•  Brand contribution is defined as revenue less material costs and 

all other marginal costs that management considers to be directly 
attributable to the sale of a given product. Such costs include 
brand specific advertising and promotion costs, raw materials, 
and marginal production and distribution costs.

•  Brand contribution margin is a percentage measure calculated as 

brand contribution, divided by revenue. Each business unit’s 
performance is reported down to the brand contribution level.

•  EBITA is defined as operating profit before exceptional and other 

items and amortisation. Only amortisation attributable to intangibles 
related to acquisitions is added back, in the period this is £2.6m 
(2014: £2.9m). EBITA margin is EBITA as a proportion of group 
revenues.

•  EBIT is defined as operating profit before exceptional and other 
items. EBIT margin is EBIT as a proportion of group revenues.

•  Adjusted earnings per share amounts are calculated by dividing 
adjusted earnings by the average number of shares during the 
period. Adjusted earnings is defined as the profit/(loss) attributable 
to ordinary equity shareholders before exceptional and other items 
adjusted for the adding back of acquisition related amortisation. 
Average number of shares during the period is defined as the 
weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during 
the period excluding any own shares held by Britvic that are used 
to satisfy various employee share-based incentive programmes. 
The weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue for adjusted 
earnings per share for the period was 248.6m (2014: 245.8m). 

•  Free cash flow is defined as net cash flow excluding movements 
in borrowings, dividend payments, exceptional and other items 
and proceeds from the share placement in July 2015.

•  Adjusted net debt is defined as group net debt, adding back the 

impact of derivatives hedging the balance sheet debt.

•  Underlying return on invested capital (ROIC) is defined as 

operating profit after applying the tax rate for the period, stated 
before exceptional and other items, as a percentage of invested 
capital. Invested capital is defined as non-current assets plus 
current assets less current liabilities, excluding all balances relating 
to interest bearing liabilities and all other assets or liabilities 
associated with the financing and capital structure of the group 
and excluding any deferred tax balances and effective hedges 
relating to interest-bearing liabilities.

138   Britvic plc Annual Report 2015

welcome 
to Britvic’s 
2015 annual 
report for the 
financial year 
ended 27 
September 
2015

In this report you can read an overview of our 
business and what we do, find information 
on our strategy and how we deliver it, how 
we have performed in the financial year and 
how we govern our business.

  01 Strategic report 

01   Performance highlights

  Sustainable business highlights

02   Chairman’s introduction
 04  Britvic at a glance
06   Our brands  
08   Our business model
 09  Our geographies
10   Our strategy 
12   Key performance indicators
14   Chief Executive Officer’s review
17   Chief Financial Officer’s review
22   Sustainable business review
28   Our risks

  02 Governance

32   Corporate governance report
34   Board of directors
43   Audit Committee
46   Nomination Committee
48   Remuneration Committee
48   Directors’ remuneration report 
53   Annual report on remuneration
70   Directors’ report
73   Statement of directors’ responsibilities

  03 Financial statements

76     Independent auditor’s report to the members of Britvic plc
79   Consolidated income statement
80     Consolidated statement of comprehensive income/(expense)
81   Consolidated balance sheet
82   Consolidated statement of cash flows 
83   Consolidated statement of changes in equity
84   Notes to the consolidated financial statements
128 Company balance sheet
129 Notes to the company financial statements

  04 Other information

136 Shareholder information
 138 Glossary

Cautionary note regarding forward-looking 
statements
This announcement includes statements that are forward-looking 
in nature. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown 
risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual 
results, performance or achievements of the group to be materially 
different from any future results, performance or achievements 
expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. 
Except as required by the Listing Rules and applicable law, Britvic 
undertakes no obligation to update or change any forward-
looking statements to reflect events occurring after the date such 
statements are published.

NOTE TO PRINTER 
INSERT FSC LOGO

Britvic takes care of the environment by choosing pureprint® environmental print 
technology. All the electricity used in the production of this report was generated from 
renewable sources and vegetable oil based inks were used throughout. The printer is a 
CarbonNeutral® company and certificated to Environmental Management System, ISO 
14001 and registered to EMAS, the Eco Management and Audit Scheme. 

The paper used in this production is made from 100% recycled waste with FSC® 
certification.

Designed by SG Design [sg-design.co.uk]

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
annual report 2015

a
n
n
u
a

l

r
e
p
o
r
t
2
0
1
5

Britvic plc 
Breakspear Park 
Breakspear Way 
Hemel Hempstead 
HP2 4TZ

Tel: +44 (0)121 711 1102

www.britvic.com