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DCC plc

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FY2011 Annual Report · DCC plc
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Annual Report and Accounts

2011

DCC is a sales, marketing, distribution and business support services Group, 
operating across five divisions:

Sales, marketing and distribution businesses (87% of profits) 

Business support services (13% of profits)

DCC Energy
• Oil
• LPG
• Fuel cards

DCC SerCom
SerCom Distribution  
IT & entertainment products to 
• Retailers 
• Resellers 
• Enterprise markets 

SerCom Solutions 
• Outsourced procurement and supply chain

management services

DCC Healthcare
•  Hospital supplies and services focussed 
  on the medical and pharmaceutical sectors

• Outsourced solutions to the health and beauty sector

DCC Environmental

• Waste management and recycling services

DCC Food & Beverage
• Healthfoods 
• Indulgence foods and beverages

• Chilled and frozen logistics

DCC currently employs approximately 8,000 people and is listed under Support Services on the 
Irish and London stock exchanges.

DCC’s strategy is to grow a sustainable, diversified business through concentrating on those 
activities where it has established, or has the opportunity to establish, leadership positions  
(i.e. typically number 1 or 2) in its chosen markets. 

Contents

Strategy

1  Highlights
2  Group at a Glance
3 
4  Board of Directors
6  Chairman’s Statement
10  Chief Executive’s Review
14  Senior Management
18  Business Reviews
38  Financial Review
46  Sustainability Report
52  Report of the Directors

54  Principal Risks and Uncertainties 
56  Corporate Governance
62  Report on Directors’ Remuneration and Interests
69  Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities
70  Report of the Independent Auditors
72  Financial Statements
132  Group Directory
136  Shareholder Information
138  Corporate Information
139  Index
140  Five Year Review

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Highlights 

Revenue
€8,680.6m
2010: €6,725.0m

Reported: +29.1% 
Constant currency†:+25.4%

Operating profit*
€229.6m
2010: €192.8m

Reported: +19.1% 
Constant currency†:+15.5%

Operating  
cash flow
€269.6m
2010: €297.8m

By Geography
     UK 
     ROI 
     Rest of World 

 72%
 15%
 13%

By Division
     Energy 
     SerCom 
     Healthcare 
     Environmental 
     Food & Beverage 

 60%
 20%
 10%
 5%
 5%

Dividend  
per share
74.18 cent
2010: 67.44 cent

Reported: +10.0% 

By Geography
     UK 
     ROI 
     Rest of World 

 72%
 15%
 13%

By Division
     Energy 
     SerCom 
     Healthcare 
     Environmental 
     Food & Beverage 

 60%
 20%
 10%
 5%
 5%

*   Excluding net exceptionals and amortisation of intangible assets. 

†   Constant currency figures quoted are based on retranslating 2010/11 

figures at prior year translation rates.

Adjusted earnings  
per share*
203.15 cent
2010: 177.98 cent
Reported: +14.1% 

Constant currency†: +10.5%

Return on total  
capital employed
19.9%
2010: 18.4%

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

1

 
 
Group at a Glance

DCC Energy
DCC Energy is the leading oil and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sales, 
marketing and distribution business in Britain and Ireland and one of the 
leading oil distribution businesses in Austria and Denmark.

DCC SerCom
SerCom Distribution markets and sells IT and entertainment products to 
the Retail, Reseller and Enterprise markets in Britain, Ireland, France, Spain, 
Portugal, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg.

SerCom Solutions provides outsourced procurement and supply chain 
management services in Ireland, Poland, China, Mexico and the USA. 

DCC Healthcare
DCC Healthcare provides sales, marketing, distribution and other services 
to healthcare providers and medical and pharmaceutical brand owners/
manufacturers in Britain and Ireland and outsourced product development, 
manufacturing and packing services to the health and beauty sector in 
Britain and continental Europe.

DCC Environmental
DCC Environmental provides a broad range of waste management and 
recycling services to the industrial, commercial, construction and public 
sectors in Britain and Ireland.

DCC Food & Beverage
DCC Food & Beverage markets and sells a wide range of owned and 
agency branded food and beverage products in Ireland, has a wine 
business in Britain and provides temperature controlled logistics services to 
the food industry in Ireland.

2

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

Strategy

DCC’s strategy is to grow a sustainable, diversified 
business through concentrating on those activities 
where it has established, or has the opportunity to 
establish, leadership positions (i.e. typically number 
1 or 2) in its chosen markets. In pursuit of this 
strategy, DCC will seek to grow:-

•  through a combination of organic growth and acquisitions which 
will strengthen existing market positions and carefully extend its 
geographic footprint;

•  through the deployment of a devolved management structure 

aimed at attracting and empowering entrepreneurial leadership 
teams capable of delivering outstanding performance in each of its 
businesses;

•  while maintaining the financial discipline necessary to invest only 

where it can drive returns well above its cost of capital; and

•  while retaining a strong balance sheet and a prudent capital 

structure which will enable DCC to take advantage of attractive 
commercial opportunities as they arise.

Successful delivery of the strategy will result in:-

•  the achievement of sustainable, superior returns for DCC’s 

shareholders;

•  increased employment opportunities and greater capacity for DCC to 

provide development opportunities for all its employees;

•  enhanced levels of customer service to DCC’s commercial, industrial, 

retail, domestic and public sector customers;

•  strengthening of the “partnership” nature of our relationships with 

our local, regional, national and global suppliers; and

•  increased opportunity for DCC to have a positive impact on the wider 

communities in which it operates.

Total Shareholder Return  
- 10 Years and 5 Years to 31 March 2011 

10 years ended 31 March 2011

179.5%
37.2%

5 years ended 31 March 2011

Average no. of employees  
- 10 Years to 31 March 2011 

11
10
09
08
07
06
05
04
03
02

7,925

7,396

7,182

6,638

5,653

5,109

4,746

3,768
3,685

3,361

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

3

Board of Directors

1

4

7

2

5

8

10

11

3

6

9

4

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

1. Michael Buckley
Non-executive Chairman
Michael Buckley, MA, LPh, MCSI, (66) was 
appointed non-executive Chairman in May 
2008. He is a non-executive director of M and 
T Bank Corporation, listed on the New York 
Stock Exchange, of Enterprise Ireland and 
of UK Asset Resolution Limited. Mr. Buckley 
is senior adviser to a number of privately 
owned Irish and international companies, 
is an adjunct professor at the Department 
of Economics in the National University of 
Ireland, University College Cork, and chairs the 
Board of the Irish Chamber Orchestra. He was 
Group Chief Executive of Allied Irish Banks plc 
from 2001 to 2005 having served as Managing 
Director of AIB Capital Markets and AIB 
Poland. Previously, he was Managing Director 
of NCB Group and a senior public servant in 
Ireland and the EU. Mr. Buckley joined the 
Board in September 2005.

2. Tommy Breen  
Chief Executive
Tommy Breen, B Sc (Econ), FCA, (52) was 
appointed Chief Executive in May 2008 
having been Group Managing Director from 
July 2007. He was previously Chief Operating 
Officer and has held a number of other senior 
management positions in the Group, including 
those of Managing Director of DCC’s Energy, 
SerCom and Environmental divisions. Mr. 
Breen joined DCC in 1985, having previously 
worked with KPMG. Mr. Breen joined the 
Board in February 2000.

Board 
Michael Buckley (Chairman) 
Tommy Breen 
Róisín Brennan 
David Byrne 
Kevin Melia 
John Moloney 
Donal Murphy 
Fergal O’Dwyer  
Bernard Somers 
Leslie Van de Walle 

Length of service 
on Board
5 years
11 years
5 years
2 years
2 years
2 years
2 years
11 years
7 years
0.5 years

Maurice Keane retired from the Board on  
5 April 2011

Audit Committee 
Bernard Somers (Chairman) 
Kevin Melia 
John Moloney 

Length of service
on Committee 
5 years
2 years
2 years

Nomination and Governance Committee
Michael Buckley (Chairman) 
Róisín Brennan 
David Byrne 
Leslie Van De Walle 

5 years
0.1 years
2 years
0.1 years

Remuneration Committee
Leslie Van De Walle (Chairman) 
Róisín Brennan 
Michael Buckley 
David Byrne 

0.5 years
5 years
5 years
2 years

6. John Moloney
Non-executive Director
John Moloney, B.Agr.Sc., MBA, (56) is Group 
Managing Director of Glanbia plc where he 
has been a board member since 1997. He 
joined Glanbia in 1987 and held a number 
of senior management positions including 
Chief Executive of the Food Ingredients and 
Agricultural Trading divisions. Previously, 
Mr. Moloney worked with the Department of 
Agriculture, Food and Forestry as well as in 
the meat industry in Ireland. He is a director of 
the Irish Dairy Board Co-operative Limited and 
a council member of the Irish Business and 
Employers Confederation. Mr. Moloney joined 
the Board in February 2009. 

10. Leslie Van De Walle
Non-executive Director
Leslie Van de Walle, (55) is non-executive 
Chairman of SIG plc and is a non-executive 
director of Aviva plc and of La Seda de 
Barcelona S.A. Mr. Van de Walle is a former 
Chief Executive Officer of Rexam plc and 
previously held a number of senior executive 
roles in Royal Dutch Shell plc, including 
Executive Vice President of Retail for Oil 
Products and Head of Oil Products, Shell 
Europe. He has also held a number of 
senior management positions with Cadbury 
Schweppes plc and United Biscuits plc. Mr. 
Van de Walle joined the Board in November 
2010.

11. Maurice Keane
Non-executive Director  
(retired on 5 April 2011)
Maurice Keane, B Comm, M Econ Sc, (69) 
was a member of the Court of Directors of 
Bank of Ireland from 1983 to 2005, and Chief 
Executive from 1998 to 2002. In January 
2009 he was appointed a director of Anglo 
Irish Bank Corporation Limited after it was 
nationalised. He is a director of Axis Capital 
Holdings Limited, listed on the New York 
Stock Exchange, and is a member of the 
National Pension Reserve Fund Commission. 
Previously, Mr. Keane was Chairman of BUPA 
Ireland and of Bristol & West plc. Mr. Keane 
joined the Board in March 2002 and retired 
from the Board on 5 April 2011.

7. Donal Murphy
Executive Director
Donal Murphy, B Comm, BFS, MBA, (45) 
joined DCC in 1998 having previously worked 
with Allied Irish Banks plc. He was appointed 
Managing Director of DCC Energy in 2006 
having been Managing Director of DCC 
SerCom for a number of years. Prior to this 
Mr. Murphy was Head of Group IT. Mr. Murphy 
joined the Board in December 2008. 

8. Fergal O’Dwyer
Executive Director 
Fergal O’Dwyer, FCA, (51) has been Chief 
Financial Officer since 1994. He joined DCC in 
1989 having previously worked with KPMG in 
Johannesburg and Price Waterhouse in Dublin. 
Mr. O’Dwyer joined the Board in February 
2000.

9. Bernard Somers
Non-executive Director
Bernard Somers, B Comm, FCA, (62) 
is the founder of Somers & Associates, 
which specialises in debt and corporate 
restructuring. He is a non-executive director of 
Irish Continental Group plc and has also been 
an investor in and a director of several start-up 
companies. Mr. Somers joined the Board in 
September 2003.

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

5

3. Róisín Brennan  
Non-executive Director
Róisín Brennan, BCL, FCA, (46) is a former 
Chief Executive of IBI Corporate Finance, 
where she had extensive experience advising 
public companies in Ireland. Ms. Brennan also 
served as a non-executive director of The Irish 
Takeover Panel during 2000/2001. Ms Brennan 
qualified as a chartered accountant with Arthur 
Andersen. Ms. Brennan joined the Board in 
September 2005.

4. David Byrne
Non-executive Deputy Chairman and 
Senior Independent Director
David Byrne, SC, (64) joined the Board 
and was appointed non-executive Deputy 
Chairman and Senior Independent Director in 
January 2009. He is a non-executive director 
of Kingspan Group plc and serves on a 
number of commercial international advisory 
boards. Mr. Byrne also chairs the National 
Treasury Management Agency Advisory 
Committee. Following 27 years of practice 
as a barrister, he was Attorney General of 
Ireland from 1997 to 1999. Mr. Byrne served 
as the first EU Commissioner for Health and 
Consumer Protection from 1999 to 2004. 
Following this, he served as Special Envoy 
of the Director-General of the World Health 
Organisation. 

5. Kevin Melia
Non-executive Director
Kevin Melia, FCMA, JDipMA, (63) is non-
executive Chairman of Vette Corp, he is a 
Joint Managing Director of Boulder Brook 
Partners, a private investment company and 
is non-executive director of Merrion Capital, 
Newtide Acquisitions, Analogic Corporation, 
Greatbatch Inc, RadiSys Corp and a member 
of the advisory Board of C&S Wholesale 
Grocers and Distributors. Mr. Melia is a former 
non-executive Chairman of Iona Technologies 
and Authorize.Net and was the Co-founder, 
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer 
of Manufacturers Services Ltd. Previous 
positions held include Chief Financial Officer 
and Executive Vice President of Operations 
of Sun Microsystems and President of 
its computer hardware division. Mr. Melia 
also held a number of senior management 
positions at Digital Equipment Corporation. Mr. 
Melia joined the Board in December 2008.

 
 
6

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

Chairman’s Statement

Consistent Profit Growth, Exceptional Return on Capital, Financial Strength
I am very pleased to be able to report to shareholders of DCC plc that in the year ended 31 
March 2011, profits again grew significantly - for the 17th year in a row. It was a year in which the 
economies that are currently most important to our business showed little growth, or remained in 
recession. Nonetheless, adjusted earnings per share increased by 14.1 % on a reported basis, the 
return achieved on capital employed was an exceptional 19.9 %, €123.6 million of free cash flow 
was generated and DCC ended the year with net debt of €45.2 million compared with equity of 
€931.9 million. This puts the Company in a very strong position to continue to progress its strategic 
agenda and, in particular, to take advantage of acquisition opportunities that will meet our 
financial return criteria and which will contribute to our drive to achieve or to consolidate leadership 
positions in our chosen fields of activity.

Dividend (cent)
- years ended 31 March

11
10
09
08
07
06
05
04
03
02

74.18

67.44

62.34

56.67

49.28

42.85

37.26

32.40

28.18

24.50

CAGR 10yrs 13.4%, CAGR 5yrs 11.6%

The financial results are summarised more 
completely in the Chief Executive’s Review 
and are set out in detail in the Business 
Review and in the Financial Review 
below. The Board warmly congratulates 
DCC’s Chief Executive, Tommy Breen, 
his management team and the more than 
8,000 employees who work in 13 countries 
for achieving such strong results, for the 
consistency and balance that have become 
hallmarks of DCC’s financial performance 
and for the exceptional efforts made to 
continue to serve customers during an 
extended period of severe weather during 
two crucial trading months in the financial 
year under review, particularly for our oil and 
gas distribution businesses.

DCC’s total shareholder return in the 10 
years to 31 March 2011 was 179.5%.

Dividend Increase of 10%
The Board is pleased to be in a position 
to recommend a final dividend of 48.07 
cent per share. When added to the interim 
dividend of 26.11 cent per share, this means 
that the total dividend for the year will be 
74.18 cent per share, an increase of 10% 
per share over the prior year. The dividend 
is covered 2.7 times by adjusted earnings 
per share. This means that the compound 
annual growth rate in DCC’s dividend over 
the last 5 years has been 11.6%. Subject to 
shareholder approval at the Annual General 
Meeting on 15 July 2011, the final dividend 
will be paid on 21 July 2011 to shareholders 
on the register at the close of business on 20 
May 2011.

DCC’s Business Model
DCC’s business model is distinctive, and can 
be summarised under four main headings.

First, over more than thirty years DCC has 
built up a set of skills in building agency 
relationships with product producers, in 
order to provide them with outsourced 
sales, marketing, distribution and business 
support services, as well as the supply chain 
management expertise that develops from 
combining those skills. We have proven 
that this skill-set can be applied to build 
sustainable businesses in a variety of sectors 
as long as they have good consolidation 
potential. Our environmental business stands 
somewhat apart from this model, but uses 
many of the same skill-sets.

Second, DCC has built a management 
model which seeks to combine 
entrepreneurial leadership teams at 
subsidiary level with a lean management 
team at the centre. It focuses on 
identifying and capitalising on development 
opportunities, on the successful integration 
of acquisitions and on ensuring that the 
businesses being built operate according 
to good business principles and embed 
best practice in relation to sustainability, risk 
management and compliance.

Third, DCC applies the same set of financial 
disciplines to each business line focussing, 
in particular, on efficiency in working capital, 
cash generation and return on capital 
employed.

Finally, we maintain a very strong balance 
sheet which gives DCC the capacity to avail 
of acquisition opportunities that meet our 
financial and strategic criteria, as they arise.

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

7

Chairman’s Statement (continued)

Strategy
During the year under review, there was 
steady progress in implementing DCC’s 
strategy of seeking over time to concentrate 
focus on those businesses in which it has 
already established, or has the opportunity 
to establish, leadership positions and which 
are most likely to generate attractive and 
substantial returns on capital, through 
a combination of organic growth and 
acquisitions. Some peripheral businesses 
in our healthcare division were disposed 
of for a good price. Our position in the 
UK oil distribution business was further 
strengthened by a number of additional 
acquisitions (the largest of which is subject 
to OFT clearance at the time of writing). 
Acquisitions in DCC’s SerCom division 
respectively broadened our product range 
and customer base into the French retail 
market and strengthened our position in 
the distribution of electronic office supplies 
into the UK reseller market. In all, over €130 
million was committed to acquisitions, 
while considerable effort was expended on, 
and much benefit was achieved from, the 
integration of acquisitions made in the prior 
year in the UK, Denmark and Austria.

Sustainability
I am glad to be able to say that good 
progress was made both in relation 
to defining and implementing the key 
components of a best practice sustainability 
agenda and in communicating our 
performance and plans, both internally 
and externally, to all stakeholders. An 
overall structure of policies, processes and 
performance indicators, focussed on the four 
material aspects of direct economic value 
added, climate change, health and safety 
and business ethics, has been approved at 
DCC Board level and is now being worked 
through at subsidiary level through local 
workshops.

During the year under review:

-  Direct economic value added was €557 

million.

-  CO2 emissions increased by 16%, primarily 
driven by acquisitions in the Energy 
Division. Our environmental compliance 
and the calibre of our responses to 
incidents has been high. Our subsidiary, 
the William Tracey Group, has launched a 
food and organic waste collection service 
for its customers, in support of the Scottish 
Government’s Zero Waste plan. A key 
part of the service will be an anaerobic 
digestion treatment plant which has been 
constructed by Scottish and Southern 
Energy at Tracey’s former landfill site at 
Barkip, where landfill gas is already being 
used to generate renewable energy.

-  On the health and safety front, the 

frequency of accidents that resulted in 
lost time fell from 2.8 per 200,000 hours 
worked to 2.5. However, due to some 
accidents that resulted in over 100 days 
lost, the number of calendar days lost per 
200,000 days worked increased from 42 
in the prior year to 48 in the year under 
review. The International Safety Rating 
System (ISRS) audit tool is being phased 
in across our energy and environmental 
subsidiaries.

-  In line with the commitment given last year, 
a set of DCC Business Conduct Guidelines 
has been circulated to all subsidiary 
employees. It sets out and gives guidance 
on the application of our common 
commitment to ethical behaviour, trust 
and accountability across what is a highly 
diversified business.

A detailed Sustainability Report, which meets 
the requirements of the Global Reporting 
Initiative C+ standard, is set out in the body 
of this Annual Report.

Board Membership and Board 
Evaluation
One new non-executive Director, Leslie 
Van De Walle, who is UK based, was 
appointed during the year, following a 
search conducted by an international firm 
specialising in board level appointments. 
Leslie broadens the sectoral experience 
base of the Board significantly, in areas such 
as energy and manufacturing, and brings 
a wealth of knowledge of doing business 
in the UK and in key European markets 
relevant to DCC’s strategy. He has taken 
the Chairmanship of the Remuneration 
Committee and is also a member of the 
Nomination and Governance Committee.

Maurice Keane retired as a non-executive 
Director on 5 April 2011, after 9 years’ 
service, during which he served on the 
Audit and Nomination and Governance 
Committees and chaired the Remuneration 
Committee at various stages. His strong, 
independent and constructive approach to a 
wide range of issues will be missed. 

The Nomination and Governance Committee 
has begun a search process with a view to 
appointing during the course of the current 
financial year a new non-executive Director, 
preferably UK based, who will become 
a member of the Audit Committee, on 
appointment.

In accordance with the Combined Code, at 
year end DCC’s annual, extensive evaluation 
of Board performance during the year 
was conducted. Under the supervision 
of David Byrne, Deputy Chairman and 
Senior Independent Director, a detailed 
questionnaire designed to elicit individual 
Directors’ views on Board performance 
was circulated to each Director. Completed 
questionnaires were sent by the Directors 
to Towers Watson, who coordinated and 
summarised the responses in conjunction 

8

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

I am glad to be able to say that good progress 
was made both in relation to defining and 
implementing the key components of a 
best practice sustainability agenda and in 
communicating our performance and plans, 
both internally and externally, to all stakeholders.

Board responsibility for risk oversight is 
given much heavier emphasis in the new 
Code. Board agendas from now on will 
allocate significant time to the risk oversight 
role of the Board in satisfying itself that risk 
management policies and procedures, 
and the risk management organisation 
structure operated by senior management 
and risk managers are consistent with 
the Group’s corporate strategy and risk 
appetite, that these policies are functioning 
as directed, and that the necessary steps 
are being taken to foster a culture of risk-
aware and risk-adjusted decision-making 
throughout DCC. The terms of reference of 
the Audit Committee have been amended 
to reflect the updated FRC Guidance on 
Audit Committees and, in particular, to put 
more emphasis on its role in reviewing the 
effectiveness of risk management systems 
and the conclusions of any testing carried 
out by internal and external auditors. The 
terms of reference of the Remuneration 
Committee have also been amended to 
ensure that the Committee gives appropriate 
weight to risk management performance 
in determining variable elements in overall 
remuneration schemes, and that the 
overall approach to remuneration does 
not encourage inappropriate risk-taking. 
The title of the Nomination Committee 
has been amended to ‘The Nomination 
and Governance Committee’ and its 
terms of reference have been expanded 
to give it the role of reviewing and making 
recommendations to the Board on 
developments in corporate governance law 
and best practice. 

with David Byrne. He presented the 
results to the Board for discussion. Useful 
suggestions in relation to key Board agenda 
items, time allocation at Board meetings and 
areas for further director education emerged, 
which I will act upon in the current year. 
David also conducted interviews with each 
Director, other than myself, to determine their 
views on my performance as Chairman. I 
separately conducted a review with each 
Director of his/her individual performance 
during the year under review. I am happy to 
report that I found that each Director had 
performed effectively in offering independent 
and constructive challenge to management, 
had made an appropriate contribution to 
strategy development and had committed 
sufficient time to DCC Board affairs. The 
other Directors found that I had discharged 
my responsibilities satisfactorily.

Next year, the entire Board evaluation 
process will be conducted by an 
independent consultant, in accordance with 
the requirements of the new UK Corporate 
Governance Code.

As has been the case for several years now, 
all Directors will offer themselves for re-
election at the Annual General Meeting.

The Combined Code and Other 
Corporate Governance Matters
The UK Corporate Governance Code 
(issued in May 2010) and the Irish Corporate 
Governance Annex (issued in December 
2010 ) come into effect, as far as DCC is 
concerned, from the current financial year 
beginning on 1 April 2011. I can report 
that DCC was in compliance with all of the 
requirements of the prior Combined Code 
in force in the financial year under review 
and is taking the necessary measures to be 
in compliance with all revised requirements 
during the year now started.

In light of the rapid expansion of the Group in 
recent years, the Chief Executive has initiated 
a Group wide review of risk management 
policies and structures, with a view to 
ensuring that risk organisation, resourcing, 
policies, process and practice meet the 
highest standards, while being appropriate 
to DCC’s specific diversified structures 
and business model. The results of the 
review and recommendations arising will be 
presented to the Board for approval during 
the third quarter of 2011.

External Audit
A formal process is being undertaken by the 
Audit Committee to select the firm which will 
carry out DCC’s external audit in the coming 
years. Five firms were asked to tender. The 
outcome of this process is not yet known.

Outlook
The economic environment in our most 
important markets remains uncertain. In 
assessing the outlook for the year to 31 
March 2012, it is wise to assume a return to 
a more normal weather pattern, compared 
to the last two winters. We are assuming 
also a 3% weakening of the average sterling/
euro exchange rate compared with last year. 
Organically, therefore, we are anticipating 
a modest decline in operating profit and 
adjusted earnings per share, on a reported 
basis. But, as I have outlined above, the 
DCC business model is based on seeking 
over time a good balance between organic 
and acquisition led growth. I am confident 
that our strong balance sheet and pipeline 
of acquisition opportunities provide us with 
a platform to continue to deliver value to our 
shareholders in the year ahead.

Michael Buckley
Chairman
9 May 2011

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

9

 
Chief Executive’s Review

“ Another year of profit growth and 
improved returns on capital”

It is pleasing to report that in another year which has seen ongoing difficult 
economic conditions in each of our principal geographic markets, DCC has 
generated operating profits of €229.6 million which represents growth, on a 
constant currency basis, of 15.5%. Approximately 77% of the Group’s operating 
profit was denominated in sterling in the year and the impact of a 4% 
favourable movement in the average sterling : euro exchange rate resulted in 
reported growth in operating profit of 19.1%.

Results Highlights

Revenue 
Operating profit* 
Profit before exceptional items, amortisation of intangible assets and tax 
Adjusted earnings per share* 
Dividend per share 
Operating cash flow 
Free cash flow** 
Net debt at 31 March 2011 
Total equity 
Return on total capital employed 

Change on Prior Year

Constant

Currency†

+25.4%
+15.5%
+14.3%
+10.5%

€ 

Reported 

8,680.6m 
229.6m 
214.8m 
203.15 cent 
74.18 cent 

+29.1% 
+19.1% 
+18.0% 
+14.1% 
+10.0% 

269.6m (2010: €297.8m) 
123.6m (2010: €229.1m) 
45.2m (2010: €53.5m) 
931.9m (2010: €836.9m) 
19.9% (2010: 18.4%) 

 All constant currency figures quoted in this report are based on retranslating 2010/11 figures at prior year translation rates

† 
*  Excluding net exceptionals and amortisation of intangible assets
**  After interest and tax payments

Adjusted earnings per share of 203.15 
cent was 10.5% ahead on a constant 
currency basis and 14.1% ahead on a 
reported basis.

Dividend per share is up 10% to 74.18 
cent with dividend cover at 2.7 times (2.6 
times in 2010).

In the two previous financial years the 
Group achieved a material reduction in 
working capital days – which fell from 
16.4 days at 31 March 2008 to 4.6 days 
at 31 March 2010. This reduction was 
largely maintained at 31 March 2011 
with working capital days at 4.9 days. 
Operating cash flow in the year was 
€269.6 million. Free cash flow was €123.6 
million after higher than normal capital 
expenditure and tax payments.

A focus on driving returns on total 
invested capital well in excess of its cost 
of capital has always been core to DCC’s 
strategy. It is therefore good to report that 
in the year to 31 March 2011, return on 
total invested capital increased to 19.9% 
from 18.4% in the prior year.

DCC employs just over 8,000 people and 
I have spoken previously of the talent 
and commitment that exists throughout 
the Group. These results are a reflection 
of that talent and commitment. In the 
year just past our people demonstrated 
that commitment to our customers 
in many ways – in particular there are 
many examples where significant effort 
and sacrifice was made to ensure the 
maintenance of customer deliveries and 
service through some very extreme winter 
weather conditions. I would again like to 
thank all of our people for their dedication.

10

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Adjusted earnings per share (cent)
- years ended 31 March

11
10
09
08
07
06
05
04
03
02

203.15

177.98

169.13

165.06

143.51

123.95

115.06

105.96
101.51

94.85

CAGR 10yrs 9.5%, CAGR 5yrs 10.4%

Group operating profit (€m)
- years ended 31 March

11
10
09
08
07
06
05
04
03
02

229.6

192.8

180.4

167.2

140.1

121.0
109.3

101.6

97.2
91.1

CAGR 10yrs 10.7%, CAGR 5yrs 13.7%

Divisional Highlights
Each of the five divisions reported 
operating profit growth for the year and 
detailed business reviews for the divisions 
are set out on pages 18 to 37. Key 
features of the year include:-

DCC Energy had another year of 
excellent profit growth, benefitting from 
the successful integration of a number 
of acquisitions completed in prior years 
and another extremely cold winter 
overall. Volumes increased by 15.5%, 
due to the impact of acquisitions and this 
resulted in DCC Energy selling 7.1 billion 
litres of product in the year. A number 
of small acquisitions were completed 
during the year and in February 2011, 
as previously announced, DCC Energy 
reached conditional agreement to acquire 
the entire issued share capital of Pace 
Fuelcare, a British based oil distribution 
business which sells over 500 million litres 
of fuel to independent retail petrol stations 
and a broad range of commercial, 
industrial, agricultural and domestic 
customers. This acquisition is subject, 
inter alia, to clearance from the UK Office 
of Fair Trading (OFT). 

DCC SerCom had a very good year 
of profit growth and development. The 
division benefitted from an excellent 
performance in SerCom Distribution 
which achieved constant currency 
operating profit growth of 16.6%. This 
result reflected very strong organic 
growth in the Reseller business, good 
organic growth in the Retail business 
and the benefit of acquisitions completed 
during the year. In October 2010, DCC 
SerCom completed the acquisition of 
Comtrade SA, a leading distributor of AV 
accessories and peripherals to the retail 
sector in France. This acquisition is a 
further step in DCC SerCom’s strategy 
to extend its product, customer and 

market coverage in Retail distribution. In 
March 2011 DCC SerCom completed 
the acquisition of Advent Data Limited, 
a leading distributor of electronic office 
supplies to a broad range of resellers, 
retailers and e-tailers in the UK. The 
acquisition of Advent Data is consistent 
with SerCom Distribution’s strategy to 
expand its Reseller distribution business 
in complementary product markets.

DCC Healthcare achieved strong 
constant currency operating profit 
growth in continuing activities against a 
challenging market background. Despite 
increased price pressure in public 
healthcare systems, the Hospital Supplies 
and Services business performed well 
while DCC Health and Beauty Solutions 
had a very good year, generating excellent 
revenue and operating profit growth, 
strengthening key customer relationships 
and expanding its customer base. In 
June 2010, DCC Healthcare disposed 
of its Mobility & Rehabilitation business 
which was consistent with our strategy 
to concentrate our focus on our larger 
healthcare businesses which have strong 
leadership positions and significant 
opportunities for organic and acquisition 
growth.

DCC Environmental traded satisfactorily 
in a market which saw a further decline 
in construction derived waste volumes 
and significant disruption by the extreme 
weather conditions in December 2010. 
The joint venture development of 
Scotland’s largest anaerobic digestion 
plant (with Scottish and Southern Energy 
plc) reached a significant milestone with 
the completion of construction and has 
commenced its commissioning phase. 

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

11

Chief Executive’s Review (continued)

DCC continues to make 
progress in evolving 
our understanding and 
use of the concept of 
sustainability to deliver 
benefits to our business 
and to our shareholders. 
We firmly believe that 
providing products and 
services which create 
social and environmental 
value also creates long 
term financial value 
for the benefit of our 
shareholders.

DCC Food & Beverage had a much 
improved year with a recovery in 
profitability and an improved return 
on capital, despite a continuing very 
challenging marketplace. This reflected 
good cost control, operating efficiencies 
and the introduction of new products. 
During the second half the business 
acquired the Goodalls and YR home 
cooking brands.

Acquisition and Capital Expenditure
Committed acquisition expenditure in 
the year amounted to €130.7 million. 
Net capital expenditure in the year of 
€77.2 million is significantly higher than 
the prior year amount of €35.7 million 
and also higher than the depreciation 
charge of €52.9 million. The excess over 
the depreciation charge is mainly driven 
by increased investment in DCC Energy 
to upgrade vehicles and support the 
ongoing development of the business 
and also a €17 million investment by DCC 
SerCom in a new 250,000 square feet 
warehouse near Wellingborough, north 
of London. This latter investment allows 
Gem Distribution to market its third party 
logistics services to software and DVD 
distributors.

Acquisition and Capital Expenditure

DCC Energy 
DCC SerCom 
DCC Healthcare 
DCC Environmental 
DCC Food & Beverage 

Financial Strength
At 31 March 2011 DCC had net debt 
of €45.2 million (2010 : €53.5 million) 
and total equity of €931.9 million (2010: 
€836.9 million). The Group’s net debt levels 
averaged €167 million during the year, 
compared to €155 million in the prior year.

Sustainability
DCC continues to make progress in 
evolving our understanding and use of 
the concept of sustainability to deliver 
benefits to our business and to our 
shareholders. We firmly believe that 
providing products and services which 
create social and environmental value also 
creates long term financial value for the 
benefit of our shareholders.

This year an external assessment of this 
Sustainability Report has been completed. 
Confirmation that our report meets the 
GRI level C+ criteria is a milestone in the 
ongoing development of our reporting 
processes. We are committed to 
increasing the quality of the Sustainability 
Report and, where appropriate, integrating 
it into the Annual Report. In this regard 
we welcome the views of all our 
stakeholders on how we can improve our 
communication in this area.

Acquisitions 
€’m 

68.0 
55.9 
1.9 
0.4 
4.5 
130.7 

Capex 
€’m 

40.8 
20.1 
4.1 
10.1 
2.1 
77.2 

Total
€’m

108.8
76.0
6.0
10.5
6.6
207.9

12

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
DCC’s strategy continues to be to grow a 
sustainable diversified business through 
concentrating on those businesses where it has 
established or has the opportunity to establish 
leadership positions

Consequently at this very early stage the 
Group anticipates that operating profit 
and adjusted earnings per share, both on 
a constant currency basis, will be broadly 
in line with the prior year. On a reported 
basis, assuming an exchange rate of 
Stg£0.8800 = €1 (which would represent 
a 3% weakening of the average rate from 
last year of Stg£0.8522 = €1), this would 
result in a modest decline in operating 
profit and adjusted earnings per share 
compared to the prior year.

This outlook excludes the potential benefit 
of acquisitions and the Group remains in 
a very strong financial position to pursue 
opportunities in the year ahead.

Tommy Breen
Chief Executive
9 May 2011

objective of driving long term returns 
for shareholders well above our cost 
of capital. The validity and success in 
execution of strategy in each of the 
businesses is monitored and reviewed 
regularly. 

Our strategy has been largely consistent 
for many years and we feel we have made 
progress in the last year in the pursuit of 
our strategic objectives, some of which is 
demonstrated in the profit growth, cash 
generation and return on capital which 
has been achieved. 

Outlook
The outlook for the year to 31 March 
2012 is framed against an uncertain 
economic environment, particularly in 
the UK, and the significant assumption 
that there will be a return to a more 
normal weather pattern compared to the 
extremely cold winter last year. In April 
DCC Energy has been impacted by what 
has been the mildest April on record, with 
temperatures significantly warmer than 
last year and this along with the impact 
of the number of public holidays in the 
UK has resulted in Group trading being 
well behind the prior year. However it is 
important to note that April represents 
only approximately 5% of the Group’s 
budgeted profit for the year.

Our ongoing objective of formally 
integrating sustainability into subsidiary 
decision making requires further progress. 
Dedicated sustainability workshops are 
being delivered to progress this objective. 
These will provide management teams 
with the fundamentals of sustainability 
and illustrate how changing social and 
environmental drivers can effect business 
performance in the longer term.

The publication of DCC’s Business 
Conduct Guidelines has been a positive 
development during the year. It provides 
a consistent set of standards that all 
subsidiary employees are expected to 
maintain in their professional conduct.

Strategy
DCC’s strategy continues to be to grow a 
sustainable diversified business through 
concentrating on those businesses where 
it has established or has the opportunity 
to establish leadership positions (i.e. 
typically number 1 or 2) in its chosen 
markets.

The Group has clear, well defined, longer 
term growth strategies for each of its 
five divisions which are reviewed on a 
regular basis. In building these strategies, 
the initial focus is on organic growth 
potential which is then supplemented 
by identifying suitable acquisition 
opportunities. Strategically, the objective 
of these acquisitions is to strengthen 
existing market positions and in some 
cases carefully extend the geographic 
footprint. It is our strong belief however 
that these acquisition opportunities 
should be pursued in a disciplined way 
which will not compromise our overriding 

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

13

Senior Management 
- Group and Divisional

Donal Murphy
Managing Director -DCC Energy

Frank Fenn
Managing Director - DCC Food & Beverage

Fergal O’Dwyer
Chief Financial Officer

Tommy Breen
Chief Executive

Niall Ennis
Managing Director -DCC SerCom

Conor Costigan
Managing Director - DCC Healthcare

14

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

15

Senior Management 
- Group and Divisional (continued)

Divisional

DCC Energy 
Finance Director 
Development Director 

DCC SerCom 
Finance & Development Director  

DCC Healthcare 
Finance & Development Director  

DCC Environmental 
Finance & Development Director  

DCC Food & Beverage 
Finance & Development Director  

Group

Conor Murphy
Clive Fitzharris

Kevin Lucey

Ian O’Donovan

Thomas Davy

Redmond McEvoy

Group Secretary & Head of Enterprise Risk Management  

Ger Whyte

Managing Director, DCC Corporate Finance 

Michael Scholefield

Head of Group EHS  

Head of Group Tax  

Head of Internal Audit  

Head of Group HR  

Head of Group Accounting  

Head of Group IT  

Head of Group Treasury  

John Barcroft

Yvonne Divilly

Stephen Johnston

Ann Keenan

Gavin O’Hara

Peter Quinn

Daphne Tease

16

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

Senior Management 
- Subsidiary and Joint Venture

DCC Energy
Oil  

LPG  

Fuel Card  

DCC SerCom
Retail  

Reseller  

Enterprise  
SCM  

GB Oils  
Emo Oil  
Great Gas  
DCC Energy NI - Oil  
DCC Energi Danmark  
Energie Direct - Austria 
Flogas UK  
Flogas Ireland  
Fuel Card Services 

Gem Distribution  
MSE  
Banque Magnetique 
Comtrade 
Micro Peripherals  
Sharptext 
Advent Data 
Altimate  
SerCom Solutions  

Managing Director  
Managing Director  
Managing Director 
Managing Director 
Managing Director 
Managing Director 
Managing Director  
Managing Director  
Chief Operations Officer  

Paul Vian
Gerry Wilson
Ray O’Sullivan
Pat O’Neill
Christian Heise
Hans-Peter Hintermayer
Henry Cubbon
Richard Martin
Ben Jordan

Managing Director  
Managing Director  
Directeur Général  
President 
Managing Director  
Managing Director  
Managing Director 
Directeur Général  
Chief Executive Officer  

Chris Peacock
Jim Morgan
Claude Dupont
Stefan Riesser
Gerry O’Keeffe
John Dunne
Raj Advani
Patrice Arzillier
Kevin Henry

DCC Healthcare
Hospital Supplies & Services  (and Fannin)  

Health & Beauty Solutions  

Squadron Medical  
TPS Healthcare 
Virtus 
(and Thompson & Capper)  
EuroCaps  
Laleham Healthcare 

Managing Director  
Managing Director 
Managing Director  
Managing Director 
Managing Director  
Managing Director  
Managing Director  

Andrew O’Connell
Peter Wyslych
Catherine McCallum
John Leonard
Stephen O’Connor
Adrian Williams
Tim O’Connor

DCC Environmental

DCC Environmental Britain and William Tracey  
Wastecycle  
Enva Ireland  

Managing Director  
Managing Director  
Managing Director  

Michael Tracey
Paul Needham
Declan Ryan

DCC Food & Beverage
Healthfood  
Indulgence  

Logistics  
Other  

*Joint venture 

Kelkin  
Robert Roberts  
Bottle Green  
Allied Foods  
Kylemore Foods Group *  

Managing Director  
Managing Director  
Managing Director  
Executive Chairman  
Managing Director  

Frank Fenn
Tom Gray
Jon Eagle
Mitchel Barry
Brian Hogan

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

17

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DCC Energy

DCC Energy is the leading oil and liquefied petroleum 
gas (LPG) sales, marketing and distribution business 
in Britain and Ireland and one of the leading oil 
distribution businesses in Austria and Denmark. In the 
year ended 31 March 2011, DCC sold 7.1 billion litres 
of product to c.800,000 customers from its extensive 
network of 261 facilities.

DCC Energy currently employs 3,524 people. 

Revenue

€6,129.8m
2010: €4,420.1m
Change on prior year
Reported: +38.7%
Constant currency: +34.3%

Operating profit

€137.3m
2010: €113.1m
Change on prior year
Reported: +21.4%
Constant currency: +17.2%

Return on total 
capital employed 
26.9%
2010: 26.5%

brands

Oil - Bayford*, Brogan*, Carlton Fuels*, CPL*, Emo Oil*, Gulf, Scottish Fuels*, Shell, Texaco.
LPG - Flogas*.
Fuel card - BP, Esso, Diesel Direct, Fastfuels, Shell, Total.

* DCC owned brand

18

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

no.1

• oil distributor in Britain
  •  oil distributor in Northern Ireland and a leading oil distributor in the Republic of Ireland
  •   in the “agency” fuel card business in Britain 

no.2

• oil distributor in Austria and Denmark
• LPG distributor in Britain and Ireland

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

19

DCC Energy
(continued)

Volume Split
     Oil                        86%
     LPG                           7%
7%
     Fuel Card        

Oil Volume Split
by Product
     Derv                   40%
     Gas Oil               30%
     Kero                    20%
     Petrol                     6%
     Fuel Oils                4%

Performance Management – key performance indicators 
Volumes 
Organic volume growth 
Operating profit per litre (constant currency) 
Operating cash flow  
Return on total capital employed 
10 year operating profit CAGR 

2011  
 7.1 bn litres 
-1.0% 
1.86 cent 
€147.1m 
26.9% 
19.9% 

2010
6.2 bn litres
-7.8%
1.84 cent 
€178.8m
26.5%
19.3%

Business and Markets
Oil
DCC Energy’s oil distribution business supplies transport 
fuels, heating oils and fuel oils to commercial, domestic, 
agricultural and industrial customers in Britain, Ireland, Austria 
and Denmark. DCC Energy sells oil under a portfolio of 
strong brands including Bayford, Brogan, Carlton Fuels, CPL, 
Emo Oil, Gulf, Scottish Fuels, Shell and Texaco. 

Texaco, Total and Diesel Direct brands. Fuel cards have 
become an essential tool for commercial organisations to 
manage their transport fuel costs. DCC Energy provides its 
customers with access to the breadth of the UK retail petrol 
station and bunker networks through its portfolio of branded 
fuel cards while giving them detailed information on their 
fuel utilisation to enable them to minimise their spend on 
transport fuels.

DCC is the largest oil distributor in Britain, selling 
approximately 4.4 billion litres of product per annum on a 
proforma basis which gives DCC approximately 14% of 
the market.* DCC has been a consolidator of the highly 
fragmented oil distribution market in Britain having first 
entered the market in September 2001 with the acquisition of 
BP’s business in Scotland. DCC Energy is one of the largest 
oil distributors in Austria and Denmark with respective market 
shares of 12% and 13%. In Northern Ireland, DCC Energy is 
the largest oil distributor with a market share of approximately 
20%, while in the Republic of Ireland DCC Energy has 
approximately 6% of the market. 

LPG
DCC Energy is the second largest LPG sales, marketing and 
distribution business in Britain and Ireland. The LPG business 
supplies propane and butane in both bulk and cylinders to 
domestic, commercial, agricultural and industrial customers 
for heating, cooking, transport and industrial processes. 
Trading under the Flogas brand, DCC has approximately 
19% of the market in Britain and approximately 37% of the 
market in Ireland. Unlike the oil market, which remains highly 
fragmented, the LPG market in both Britain and Ireland is 
relatively consolidated. The LPG business also distributes a 
wide range of LPG fuel appliances such as mobile heaters and 
barbecues.

Fuel Cards
DCC Energy is one of the leading sales and marketing 
businesses for branded fuel cards in Britain. The business 
now sells in excess of 500 million litres of motor fuel annually 
via its portfolio of fuel cards under the BP, Esso, Shell, 

Supply
DCC Energy purchases its oil and LPG from the major oil 
companies with which it has established excellent long 
standing relations. DCC Energy’s supply strategy is to 
maintain a portfolio approach to the sourcing of its oil and 
LPG products. DCC’s significant financial strength provides 
DCC Energy with a significant competitive advantage in 
building long term partnerships with its suppliers.

Performance for the Year Ended 31 March 2011
DCC Energy’s operating profit was 17.2% ahead of the 
prior year on a constant currency basis. This was another 
year of excellent growth and the business benefited from 
the successful integration of a number of acquisitions 
completed in prior years and another extremely cold winter 
overall, particularly in the last six weeks of the quarter ended 
31 December 2010. However, trading in the fourth quarter 
was adversely impacted by the milder weather conditions, 
particularly relative to the same period in the prior year.

DCC Energy sold 7.1 billion litres of product, an increase 
of 15.5% on the prior year. While the division achieved 
good organic volume growth in the nine months ended 31 
December 2010, this was negated in the fourth quarter 
primarily as a result of the mild weather conditions. For the full 
year, volumes were approximately 1% behind the prior year 
on an organic basis.

On a constant currency basis, the operating profit per 
litre for the year was 1.86 cent, broadly in line with  
the prior year of 1.84 cent. 

20

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
DCC Energy’s vision is to 
be the leading oil and 
LPG sales, marketing 
and distribution 
business in Europe

The Oil distribution business had another 
excellent performance in Britain, benefiting 
from the integration, consequent synergies 
and strong performance of recent 
acquisitions. DCC further strengthened its 
position within the British market through 
the acquisition of Pearts (a 190 million litre 
business in Northern England, completed 
in May 2010) and the acquisition of two 
oil importation and storage terminals 
in Inverness and Aberdeen in Scotland 
(completed in June 2010). In February 2011, 
as previously announced, DCC Energy 
reached conditional agreement to acquire 
the entire issued share capital of Pace 
Fuelcare, a British oil distribution business. In 
its last financial year Pace Fuelcare sold 515 
million litres of fuel to independent retail petrol 
stations and a broad range of commercial, 
industrial, agricultural and domestic 
customers. The acquisition is subject, inter 
alia, to clearance from the UK Office of Fair 
Trading. DCC is the clear market leader in oil 
distribution in Britain and on completion of 
the acquisition of Pace Fuelcare, would have 
a market share of approximately 15% and is 
well positioned to further consolidate what 
remains a very fragmented market.

DCC Energy’s oil distribution businesses in 
continental Europe (Denmark and Austria) 
performed strongly and made an important 
contribution to the division’s overall result. 
Having reached conditional agreement 
in February, the scale of the Group’s 
oil distribution business in Austria was 
increased when DCC Energy completed the 
acquisition in April of the trade and certain 
assets of Top Oil GmbH, a 140 million litre 
oil distributor based in Northern Austria for a 
modest consideration. Despite the continued 
weak economic environment in Ireland, there 
was a modest recovery in the profitability 
of the Irish oil business reflecting cost 
reductions achieved in the prior year. 

primarily due to the difficult Irish economy. 
The overall result was adversely impacted by 
a challenging product pricing environment, 
reducing the operating profit of the business. 

The Fuel Card business had another excellent 
year, driven by the additional contribution 
from the acquisition of the Brogan fuel card 
business (completed December 2009) and 
good organic volume growth. 

Strategy and Development
DCC Energy’s vision is to be the leading oil 
and LPG sales, marketing and distribution 
business in Europe:-

• with strong local market shares;

• operating under multiple brands;

• generating high levels of ROCE;

•  expanding into other geographic regions 
with attractive market characteristics; and

•  developing a presence over time in the 

green/renewable energy sector.

In oil distribution, DCC’s strategy is 
to achieve a 20% share of the British 
market. With a particular focus on the 
non heating dependent segments of the 
market (including dealer operated retail 
petrol stations, the marine market and the 
aviation sector) and on national accounts, 
DCC Energy aims to leverage its extensive 
nationwide operational infrastructure to 
drive high levels of organic profit growth. 
During the year DCC acquired two marine 
importation and storage terminals in 
Inverness and Aberdeen. These will support 
the strategic aim of growing in the marine 
market and will also provide a platform 
for further such development over time. 
DCC Energy is also focused on selling 
differentiated products and cross selling 
add-on products and services such as 
lubricants and boiler maintenance services to 
its extensive customer base. 

The LPG business performed satisfactorily 
in the year achieving market share growth 
in Britain, particularly in the commercial 
sector, although volumes in Ireland declined 

In the LPG market, DCC Energy will continue 
to leverage its strong market positions to 
drive organic profit growth on a sector by 
sector basis in both Britain and Ireland.

In fuel cards, DCC will continue to target high 
levels of organic growth through its extensive 
portfolio of branded fuel cards by investing 
in new telesales teams and cross selling 
fuel cards to its extensive oil distribution 
customer base. DCC Energy will continue to 
position itself as the partner of choice for all 
the providers of branded fuel cards in both 
the retail and bunker card networks. 

DCC Energy made the first important 
strategic steps in developing the business into 
continental Europe through the acquisition 
of Shell’s oil distribution businesses in Austria 
and Denmark in the year ended 31 March 
2010. The scale of the Austrian business was 
increased by the acquisition of the trade and 
certain assets of Top Oil GmbH in April 2011, 
while the Danish business acquired a small 
lubricant distribution business during the last 
financial year. 

DCC is developing a presence in the 
renewable energy sector with the focus 
being to provide energy solutions to 
customers across the division, allowing them 
to understand and maximise the benefits of 
investments in alternative energy products 
and to support them in reducing their carbon 
footprints. 

Outlook
The outlook for DCC Energy for the year 
to 31 March 2012 is set against the 
significant assumption that there will be a 
return to a more normal weather pattern 
compared to the extremely cold winter last 
year. Consequently it is anticipated, at this 
very early stage, that operating profit, on a 
constant currency basis, in DCC Energy for 
the year to 31 March 2012 will be behind the 
prior year. 

*  The market is defined as fuels sold to the domestic, 

commercial, agriculture, industrial and haulage sectors of 
the transport fuels market (i.e. excluding the retail petrol 
station market).

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

21

DCC SerCom

SerCom Distribution markets and sells IT and 
entertainment products to the Retail market, the 
Reseller market and the Enterprise market in Britain, 
Ireland, France, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, 
Belgium and Luxembourg. SerCom Solutions 
provides outsourced procurement and supply chain 
management services in Ireland, Poland, China, 
Mexico and the USA.

DCC SerCom currently employs 1,668 people.

Revenue

€1,868.9m
2010: €1,618.5m
Change on prior year
Reported: +15.5%
Constant currency: +12.9%

Operating profit

€46.0m
2010: €40.8m
Change on prior year
Reported: +12.7%
Constant currency: +9.9%

Operating margin
2.5%
2010: 2.5%

Return on total 
capital employed 
16.2%
2010: 16.1%

brands

Retail - Altec Lansing, D-Link, Electronic Arts, iHome, Logitech, Microsoft, 
Netgear, Nintendo, Paramount, Seagate, Take Two, Tom Tom, Warner 
Brothers, Western Digital.
Reseller - Acer, APC, Cisco, Dell, IBM, Lenovo, Microsoft, Netgear, 
Plantronics, Samsung, Sony, Toshiba, Western Digital.
Enterprise - Adobe, EMC, Fortinet, HP, IBM, Network Appliance, Oracle, 
Red Hat, SonicWall, Symantec, VMware. 
SCM - SerCom Solutions*

* DCC owned brand

22

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

no.1

•  specialist distributor of consumer IT & entertainment products to a broad 

range of retailers in Britain, Ireland and France 

•  specialist distributor of enterprise products to resellers and independent 

software vendors in France, Iberia, Benelux, UK and Ireland

a market leader

•  a leading distributor of IT products to a broad range of resellers in Britain 

and Ireland

•  a leading provider of outsourced procurement and supply chain 

management services

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

23

DCC SerCom
(continued)

Revenue by
Activity
     Retail                   41%
     Reseller                39%
     Enterprise             15%
     SerCom Solutions  5%

Revenue by
Geography
     Britain                 60%
     Europe                34%
     Ireland                  6%

Performance Management – key performance indicators 
Revenue growth (constant currency) 
Organic revenue growth (constant currency) 
Operating cash flow 
Return on total capital employed 
10 Year operating profit CAGR 

2011 
+12.9% 
+7.7% 
 €60.7m 
16.2% 
3.1% 

2010
+8.6%
+6.8%
 €51.8m
16.1%
5.4%

Business and Markets
Retail
DCC SerCom’s Retail distribution business sells a broad 
range of consumer products, including games consoles 
and software, consumer electronics, audio visual 
accessories and peripherals and home entertainment 
products, to the retail channel, including e-tailers, grocers 
and catalogue retailers in Britain, Ireland and France. 
DCC SerCom represents many of the leading brands 
in the computer games, entertainment and consumer 
electronics markets such as Altec Lansing, D-Link, 
Electronic Arts, iHome, Logitech, Microsoft, Netgear, 
Nintendo, Paramount, Seagate, Take Two, Tom Tom, 
Warner Brothers and Western Digital. The business is the 
leading specialist distributor of games hardware, software 
and accessories, consumer electronics and packaged 
software in Britain, the leading specialist distributor of 
IT peripherals, audio visual and consumer electronics 
products in France and the leading specialist distributor 
of home entertainment products in Ireland. The Retail 
distribution business provides a range of value added 
services to its customers and suppliers including end-
user fulfilment, third party logistics, category management 
and merchandising, security tagging and cross vendor 
bundling. The Retail distribution business employs 
582 people and in the year ended 31 March 2011 had 
revenues of €761 million.

Reseller
DCC SerCom’s Reseller distribution business sells a 
broad range of IT, communications and consumer 
products, focused on the SME and home markets, to 
a very wide customer base of IT resellers, dealers and 
retailers in Britain and Ireland. The products distributed 
include PCs, peripherals, printers, consumables and 
network products. The business is a distribution partner 
of many of the leading brands in the IT market, such as 
Acer, APC, Cisco, Dell, IBM, Lenovo, Microsoft, Netgear, 
Plantronics, Samsung, Sony, Toshiba and Western Digital, 
and provides its partners with an exceptionally broad 

customer reach and proactively markets IT products 
to the channel through product focused sales teams 
with strong technical expertise. The Reseller distribution 
business has strong market positions in its core markets 
in Britain and Ireland and is typically the No. 1 distributor 
for the brands it represents. The business employs 
640 people and in the year ended 31 March 2011 had 
revenues of €723 million.

Enterprise
DCC SerCom’s Enterprise distribution business sells a 
range of data management, security and virtualisation 
software, servers and storage products which are 
typically utilised in medium-sized and large organisations. 
The business’ customers are value added resellers, large 
account resellers and independent software vendors in 
France, Iberia, Benelux and Britain. The business has 
developed a supplier portfolio of the leading hardware 
and software vendors in the industry including Adobe, 
EMC, Fortinet, HP, IBM, Network Appliance, Oracle, Red 
Hat, SonicWall, Symantec and VMware. This portfolio 
allows its highly trained sales teams to offer integrated 
IT solutions and related services to its customers. 
The business is the leading independent specialist 
value-added distributor of enterprise and mid-market 
products in its core markets of France, Spain, Portugal, 
Belgium and Luxembourg, with a growing presence in 
the Netherlands and Britain. The Enterprise distribution 
business employs 286 people and in the year ended 31 
March 2011 had revenues of €292 million.

Supply Chain Management
DCC SerCom’s supply chain management business, 
SerCom Solutions, provides a range of specialist 
procurement and sourcing services from its operations 
in Ireland, Poland, China, the United States and Mexico, 
employing state of the art IT systems and procurement 
processes. The business is a strategic supply chain 
partner for some of the world’s leading technology and 
telecommunications companies. SerCom Solutions 

24

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

-  To extend its pan-European presence in 
the Enterprise distribution market with an 
increased focus on strategic brands in the 
server, software and security sectors

SerCom Solution’s primary strategic 
objectives are to expand its customer base 
in East Asia, Europe and North America 
through strategic partnership arrangements 
and the extension of its procurement and 
sourcing services and capability. 

Outlook
DCC SerCom anticipates very strong growth 
in operating profit, on a constant currency 
basis, for the year to 31 March 2012, through 
a combination of the benefit of acquisitions 
completed in the prior year and further 
organic growth, notwithstanding what is 
likely to be a less favourable environment for 
consumer demand.

DCC SerCom’s strategy is to deliver consistent 
long-term profit growth and industry leading 
returns on capital employed by building strong 
commercial and market positions in each of its 
focussed business units

delivers global supply chain solutions 
encompassing vendor hubbing, consignment 
stock programmes, supplier identification 
and qualification, quality assurance and 
compliance and supplier and customer 
fulfilment to effectively reduce its partners’ 
cost of production and reduce obsolescence 
and wastage. SerCom Solutions has 
developed partnerships with leading 
logistics firms to enable the business to 
deliver its services in a flexible, cost effective 
manner in its core markets in Europe, North 
America and the Far East. The Supply Chain 
Management business employs 160 people 
and in the year ended 31 March 2011 had 
revenues of €93 million.

Performance for the Year Ended 31 
March 2011 
DCC SerCom’s operating profit grew by 
9.9% on a constant currency basis. This 
was driven by an excellent performance 
in SerCom Distribution, which achieved 
constant currency operating profit growth of 
16.6% of which 6.3% was organic, reflecting 
very strong organic growth in the Reseller 
business, good organic growth in the Retail 
business and the benefit of acquisitions 
completed during the year. 

DCC SerCom’s Retail distribution business 
achieved very strong operating profit growth. 
The business in Britain performed well, 
growing market share with key suppliers 
while also investing in its logistics and 
ancillary services capability through the 
acquisition of a substantial new facility north 
of London. In France, the Retail business 
achieved good organic profit growth and 
significantly strengthened its market and 
service proposition through the acquisition of 
Comtrade SA, a leading distributor of audio 
visual accessories and peripherals, which 
was announced in August 2010. 

DCC SerCom’s Reseller distribution business 
had an excellent year, generating significant 
operating profit growth in both Britain 
and Ireland. The business gained market 
share in core product areas, particularly 

PCs, supported by the introduction of new 
suppliers. The continuing investment in 
strengthening its technical and commercial 
expertise in communications, audio visual 
and the converging IT and mobile telephony 
channels also generated a strong return. 
In March 2011 DCC acquired Advent Data 
Limited, a leading independent distributor of 
electronic office supplies in the UK. Advent 
is highly complementary to DCC’s Reseller 
business and significantly strengthens its 
customer and supplier breadth in this market.

DCC SerCom’s Enterprise distribution 
business had a challenging year in France. 
Profits declined modestly, despite good 
progress in Belgium and the Netherlands 
and extending its presence in the UK market 
during the year.

DCC SerCom’s Supply Chain Management 
business, which now accounts for less 
than 10% of DCC SerCom’s operating 
profit, continued to suffer from a decline 
in procurement volumes with its major 
customer, as a result of changes in its 
manufacturing strategy. 

Strategy and Development
DCC SerCom’s strategy is to deliver 
consistent long-term profit growth and 
industry leading returns on capital employed 
by building strong commercial and market 
positions in each of its focussed business 
units. 

SerCom Distribution’s principal medium term 
objectives are:
-  To establish its Retail distribution business 
as the leading specialist service provider to 
the European retail sector, with a particular 
focus on online, catalogue and supermarket 
channels, by extending its market and 
service coverage; 

-  To become the leading Reseller distribution 
business in the UK and Ireland through the 
continued expansion of its product and 
customer base, including expansion into 
complementary sectors such as audio 
visual, communications and mobile;

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

25

 
DCC Healthcare

DCC Healthcare is a broadly based healthcare services business 
principally focussed on:
•  the provision of sales, marketing and distribution services in 
Ireland and Britain to healthcare providers and medical and 
pharmaceutical brand owners/manufacturers;

•  the provision of outsourced product development, manufacturing 
and packing services to the health and beauty industry in Britain 
and continental Europe.

DCC Healthcare currently employs 1,113 people.

Revenue*

€311.1m
2010: €280.5m
Change on prior year
Reported: +10.9%
Constant currency: +7.9%

Operating margin*
7.2%
2010: 7.1%

Operating profit*

€22.5m
2010: €19.9m
Change on prior year
Reported: +13.1%
Constant currency: +10.5%

Return on total 
capital employed* 
16.3%
2010: 14.6%

*Continuing activities (excluding Mobility & Rehabilitation)

brands

Hospital Supplies & Services - Biorad, Boston Scientific, Diagnostica Stago, Fannin*, Fresenius, 
Grifols, ICU Medical, Martindale Pharma, Molnlycke, Oxoid, Sandoz, Smiths Medical, Zeiss.
Health & Beauty Solutions’ Customers - Body Shop, Elder Pharmaceuticals, GSK, Healthspan, 
Merck (Seven Seas, Natures Best, Lamberts), Reckitt Benckiser, Sara Lee, Unilever, Vitabiotics.

* DCC owned brands

26

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

no.1

•  provider of sales, marketing and distribution services in Ireland to healthcare 
providers and medical and pharmaceutical brand owners/manufacturers

• provider of outsourced pharma compounding services in Ireland
•  UK based provider of outsourced product development, manufacturing and packing 

services to the health and beauty sector in Europe

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

27

DCC Healthcare
(continued)

Revenue by 
Activity
     Hospital Supplies
     & Services               75%

     Health & Beauty     25%

Revenue by 
Geography
     Britain                      54%
     Ireland                     40%
     Continental Europe   6%

Performance Management - key performance indicators 
Revenue growth (constant currency) 
Operating cash flow 
Return on total capital employed 
10 year operating profit CAGR 

2011 
+7.9% 
€30.5m 
16.3% 
8.5% 

2010
+9.1%
€23.3m
14.6%
11.6%

Business and Markets
DCC Hospital Supplies & Services 
In Ireland, DCC Healthcare is the market leader in the 
provision of sales, marketing and distribution services 
to healthcare providers and to international healthcare 
brands/manufacturers in the areas of medical devices, 
consumables and pharmaceuticals. 

In the medical area, the business markets and sells a 
broad range of products in areas such as woundcare, 
urology, procedure packs, critical care (anaesthesia, endo-
vascular, cardiology, IV access) and diagnostics. Products 
are typically single use/consumable in nature. DCC 
represents leading medical, surgical and scientific brands 
including BioRad, Boston Scientific, Diagnostica Stago, 
ICU Medical, Molnlycke, Oxoid, Smiths Medical and Zeiss 
through its extensive field sales force of highly trained 
professionals. In Britain, DCC is also seeking to build a 
growth platform in the provision of stock management 
and distribution services to hospitals and healthcare brand 
owners/manufacturers. This is a potentially interesting 
sector as British acute care hospitals look for customised 
just-in-time distribution solutions to deliver cost savings 
and improve product availability.

In the pharma area, DCC Healthcare is involved in the 
sales, marketing and distribution of pharmaceuticals, 
primarily IV pharmaceuticals for the hospital sector 
in areas such as oncology, haematology, neurology 
and anaesthesia. DCC works with leading brands like 
Fresenius Kabi, Grifols, Martindale Pharma and Sandoz, 
as well as generic companies. The business is increasingly 
focussed on developing its range of pharma services 
including value added logistics in Britain and its growing 
business in the provision of IV compounding services 
to hospitals in Ireland. DCC has significantly expanded 
the capacity of its licensed compounding facility, 
which is involved in the aseptic filling of oncology, pain 

management, antibiotic and paediatric nutrition products 
into patient ready dosage forms, i.e. syringes or IV bags, 
and is leveraging this capacity to expand its service 
offering, including into the provision of pharma homecare 
services in Ireland.

DCC Healthcare is continually expanding its product 
portfolio in both the medical and pharma sectors 
organically and through bolt on acquisition. In the pharma 
sector, in addition to growing its compounding service 
business, DCC Healthcare is seeking to expand in other 
service areas and to further develop its pharma sales 
and marketing activities into new product formats and 
channels to market. 

DCC Health & Beauty Solutions 
DCC Health & Beauty Solutions is a leading provider of 
“source to shelf” outsourced solutions to the health and 
beauty industry, principally in the areas of nutraceuticals 
(vitamin and health supplements), skin care and hair care. 
Customers include leading premium brand owners, mail 
order companies, specialist health and beauty retailers 
and private label suppliers in Britain, continental Europe 
and other markets. DCC provides a wide range of 
product formats (tablets, soft gel and hard shell capsules, 
creams and liquids), packing and other services from its 
three MHRA licensed facilities in Britain. The quality of 
these facilities, together with the strength and depth of 
DCC’s business development and technical resources, 
enables DCC to assist its customers in rapidly bringing 
new products from marketing concept through to 
finished, shelf-ready products. DCC’s key strength is 
the highly responsive and flexible service it provides to 
its customers. This service typically involves product 
development, formulation, stability and other testing and 
regulatory compliance, as well as manufacturing and 
packing.

28

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

     
DCC Healthcare’s primary focus is the 
generation of strong organic profit growth and 
superior returns in its existing businesses by 
developing and expanding its service offerings 
to meet the changing needs of the healthcare 
and health & beauty sectors. In addition to 
driving continuing growth through existing 
channels to market, the business is also 
focussed on growing in developing channels 
such as homecare.

Outlook
While pressure on healthcare spending will 
impact DCC Hospital Supplies & Services, 
DCC Health & Beauty Solutions is budgeting 
for strong profit growth. Overall DCC 
Healthcare expects operating profit from 
continuing activities, on a constant currency 
basis, in the year to 31 March 2012 to be 
modestly ahead of the prior year. 

DCC Healthcare’s strategy is to build a 
substantial, broadly based, healthcare 
business principally focussed on the 
provision of value added services to the 
healthcare and health & beauty sectors

Strategy and Development
DCC Healthcare’s strategy is to build a 
substantial, broadly based, healthcare 
business principally focussed on the provision 
of value added services to the healthcare and 
health & beauty sectors.

In the markets in which DCC Hospital 
Supplies & Services operates, healthcare 
provision is primarily funded by governments. 
As fiscal budgets tighten and the burden of 
ageing populations increases, healthcare 
providers are increasing their focus on cost 
saving opportunities and value for money. 
Individual hospitals, hospital trusts and 
procurement groups and other healthcare 
providers are seeking to source equivalent 
quality, lower cost products and looking 
to outsource activities deemed to be 
non-core. DCC Healthcare is working to 
meet this demand by growing its portfolio 
of cost effective products, including 
generic pharmaceuticals and own brand 
medical products, and by providing value 
added outsourced services, including IV 
pharmaceutical compounding services and 
stock management and distribution services.

Outsourcing trends are also visible in the 
health and beauty sector, where brand 
owners are increasingly outsourcing non-sales 
and marketing activities (including product 
development) and streamlining their supply 
chains. DCC Health & Beauty Solutions, 
given its high quality licensed facilities and the 
depth of its technical, regulatory and financial 
resources, is well positioned to capitalise on 
these trends.

Performance for the Year Ended 31 
March 2011
DCC Healthcare achieved growth in operating 
profit from continuing activities of 10.5% on a 
constant currency basis, which represented 
a strong performance against a challenging 
market background. 

The successful disposal of its Mobility & 
Rehabilitation businesses in June 2010 has 
enabled DCC Healthcare to bring greater 
focus to the development of its Hospital 
Supplies & Services and Health & Beauty 
Solutions businesses, as well as improving the 
return on capital employed of the division. 

DCC Hospital Supplies & Services recorded 
good revenue and profit growth. In the 
Republic of Ireland, government austerity 
measures have reduced demand and 
increased price pressure in the public 
healthcare system, which impacted the gross 
margin in DCC Hospital Supplies & Services. 
This was offset by tight cost control, the full 
year benefit of bolt-on acquisitions completed 
in the prior year and other revenue growth 
driven by, inter alia, the expansion of DCC’s 
pharma compounding service capacity and 
new product introductions. The British value 
added distribution services business had a 
challenging year but contributed modestly to 
profits as it continued to invest in enhancing 
its management and operational capacity. 

DCC Health & Beauty Solutions generated 
excellent revenue and operating profit growth. 
Revenue growth was particularly strong 
in skincare and fish oil products across 
a range of customers, benefitting from 
continued business development with existing 
customers as well as new customer wins, 
including in continental Europe. Despite raw 
material cost inflation, the business managed 
its input costs and overheads very well. These 
measures, together with efficiency gains as 
a result of investments in infrastructure and 
skilled people in recent years, delivered strong 
operational leverage. 

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

29

 
DCC Environmental

DCC Environmental is a leading British and Irish 
provider of recycling and waste management services 
to the industrial, commercial, construction and public 
sectors, operating in both the non-hazardous and 
hazardous segments of the market. In the last year 
DCC Environmental handled approximately 1.3 million 
tonnes of waste through its twenty facilities in Britain 
and Ireland. 

DCC Environmental currently employs 761 people.

Revenue

€106.4m
2010: €77.4m
Change on prior year
Reported: +37.6%
Constant currency: +33.1%

Operating profit

€11.6m
2010: €9.3m
Change on prior year
Reported: +24.7%
Constant currency: +19.7%

Operating margin
10.9%
2010: 12.0%

Return on total 
capital employed 
10.0%
2010: 9.7%

brands

Enva*, Wastecycle*, Tracey*.

* DCC owned brands

30

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

no.1

• recycling and waste management business in Scotland
• hazardous waste treatment business in Ireland

a market leader

•  a leading Nottingham based recycling 

and waste management business

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

31

DCC Environmental
(continued)

Revenue by 
Geography
     Britain                 77%
     Ireland                   23%

Performance Management – key performance indicators 

2011 

 2010

Tonnages* 
Recycling % 
Operating cash flow  
Return on total capital employed 
10 year operating profit CAGR 

*2010 includes 50% of Tracey for 9 months

1,305k 
 69% 
€19.8m 
10.0% 
26.1% 

962k 
71%
€15.8m
9.7%
30.6%

Business and Markets 
Britain
DCC Environmental collects and processes a broad 
range of non hazardous and hazardous waste through 
its market leading Scottish business which owns the 
most comprehensive waste infrastructure in Scotland. In 
addition DCC Environmental owns the largest material 
recycling facility in the East Midlands. The business 
handles 1.2 million tonnes of material, the majority of which 
is collected by its fleet of 223 vehicles. 70% of all waste 
volumes are diverted from landfill.

With its comprehensive recycling infrastructure (the 
business doesn’t operate any active waste landfill sites), 
DCC Environmental is ideally positioned to benefit from 
society’s drive to reduce waste and to conserve natural 
resources. Strong legislative backing is being provided to 
support the shift to resource recovery from waste products 
– the most significant of which is the commitment by 
government to increase landfill tax which is now £56 per 
tonne to £80 a tonne over the next three years in equal 
annual increments. Another tangible example of this 
movement to the more efficient management of scarce 
resources is Scotland’s world leading Zero Waste Plan 
which, published in June 2010, includes a 50% recycling 
target for all waste by 2013 and 70% by 2025. Further 
evidence of Scotland leading the way is the more recent 
announcement that from 2013 Scotland will measure 
recycling in terms of carbon saving in order to prioritise 
the recycling of ‘high impact’ carbon materials such as 
textiles and plastics. Whilst Britain has made progress in 

increasing the proportion of waste diverted from landfill 
by way of recycling, it continues to significantly lag behind 
Europe in terms of organic waste processing. To address 
this deficit, the government has unveiled incentives 
such as the renewable heat incentive to encourage the 
development of new infrastructure such as anaerobic 
digestion plants. DCC Environmental is well positioned 
to capitalise on the increased treatment of organic 
waste with the recent completion of the construction of 
one of Britain’s largest anaerobic digestion facilities with 
project partner Scottish and Southern Energy Plc. DCC 
Environmental Britain’s business is well placed to benefit 
from these developments. 

Ireland
Enva is Ireland’s largest hazardous waste treatment 
company, providing technically innovative solutions 
to a wide range of commercial and industrial sectors. 
Operating from six EPA/EA licensed sites throughout 
Ireland Enva has an unrivalled national presence. The six 
Enva facilities process a broad range of hazardous wastes 
including waste oil, contaminated soils, bulk chemicals 
and contaminated packaging. Enva also continues to 
invest in new and innovative solutions for hazardous waste 
as illustrated by the recent commissioning of infrastructure 
to facilitate converting waste lubricant oils into processed 
fuel oil, an approved substitute for gas oil. In addition 
to treating a broad range of hazardous waste at Enva’s 
facilities in Ireland, Enva also works with a network of 
European based companies to provide a comprehensive 
range of solutions for hazardous waste. 

32

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

DCC Environmental’s strategy 
continues to be to grow its position 
as a leading broadly based waste 
management and recycling 
business in Britain and Ireland

There is growing recognition that there is 
value in waste material both as a commodity 
and energy source and DCC Environmental’s 
recycling led infrastructure is ideally positioned 
to capitalise on this. In addition to processing 
recyclable waste such as paper and plastic, 
DCC Environmental processes residual 
waste into a fuel for use in cement kilns 
as a direct substitute for fossil fuels. DCC 
Environmental will also shortly commence 
sending organic waste to Scotland’s largest 
anaerobic digestion plant and discussions are 
progressing to divert further residual waste, 
which cannot be recycled, from landfill into 
energy from waste facilities. 

Outlook
With its strong focus on recycling and 
resource recovery, DCC Environmental 
expects to achieve good growth in operating 
profit, on a constant currency basis, in 
the year to 31 March 2012 in spite of the 
challenging trading environment prevailing in 
Britain and Ireland.

Enva also operates a water treatment division 
providing specialty chemicals, equipment 
and professional services to the drinking, 
industrial and waste water sectors. The 
water treatment division directly operates an 
in-house manufacturing facility as well as an 
INAB accredited laboratory to support these 
services.

Regulation
DCC Environmental’s waste management 
business operates in a highly regulated 
environment. Each facility operates under 
conditions as set down in respective waste 
management licences. During the year 47 
inspections were carried out by environmental 
regulatory authorities, with only two minor 
non-conformances recorded. Any non-
compliance with licence requirements, 
however minor, is investigated immediately 
and corrective actions implemented. 

Performance for the Year Ended 31 
March 2011
DCC Environmental’s operating profit was 
19.7% ahead of the prior year on a constant 
currency basis. The results benefitted from the 
consolidation of 100% of the operating profit 
of the William Tracey Group for the full year. 
On a like for like basis, however, operating 
profit declined modestly. 

Market conditions in Britain were difficult, with 
a further decline in construction derived waste 
volumes, and operations were significantly 
disrupted by the extreme weather conditions 
in December, resulting in a like for like decline 

in operating profit in Britain. Some of this 
weakness was offset by the strong growth 
in recyclate prices and the commissioning of 
a new material recycling facility in Glasgow 
to process domestic recyclable waste. 
The development of Scotland’s largest 
anaerobic digestion plant (in partnership with 
Scottish and Southern Energy Plc) reached 
a significant milestone with the completion 
of construction and commencement of the 
commissioning phase.

The Irish business made progress during the 
year and recorded growth in operating profit 
despite the challenging market conditions. 

Strategy and Development
DCC Environmental’s strategy continues to be 
to grow its position as a leading broadly based 
waste management and recycling business in 
Britain and Ireland by positioning the business 
to take advantage of the trend towards 
more sustainable waste management with 
a particular emphasis on resource recovery 
and recycling. The strategy includes delivering 
superior value adding services to all its 
customers by way of a deep understanding 
of customer’s requirements and the 
development of innovative solutions to their 
problems. Furthermore DCC Environmental is 
aligning its business to support the transition 
to a low carbon economy through resource 
rather than waste focus, developing internal 
climate change expertise and ever improving 
its recycling capability.

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

33

DCC Food & Beverage

DCC Food & Beverage markets and sells a wide range 
of company owned and third party branded food and 
beverage products in Ireland and has a wine business 
in Britain. It is a market leader in a number of niche 
market segments in healthfoods, indulgence foods 
and frozen & chilled logistics.

DCC Food & Beverage currently employs 930 people.

Revenue

€252.2m
2010: €275.0m
Change on prior year
Reported: -8.3%
Constant currency: -9.2%

Operating margin
4.6%
2010: 3.1%

Operating profit

€11.5m
2010: €8.5m
Change on prior year
Reported: +36.0%
Constant currency: +35.6%

Return on total 
capital employed 
14.9%
2010: 10.2%

brands

Healthfood - Alpro, Biofreeze, Dorset Cereals, Filippo Berio, Hipp, Jakemans, Kallo, 
Kelkin*, Nairns, Ocean Spray, Olbas, Ortis, Pomegreat, St Dalfour, Vitabiotics, Whole Earth.
Indulgence - Andrew Peace, Antinori, Bollinger, Chapoutier, Cono Sur, Elizabeth Shaw, 
French Connection*, Freixenet, Glenfiddich, Goodalls, Hula Hoops, KP, Lemons*, 
Lindemans, Louis Jadot, McCoys, Masi, Mateus, Meanies, Moreau, Rancheros, Ritter, 
Robert Roberts*, Sacla, Skips, Sutter Home, Topps, Torres, Tullamore Dew, Wakefield, 
Wilton Candy*.
Logistics - Allied Foods*, Mr. Food.
Other - Kylemore.

* DCC owned brand

34

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

no.1

• ambient healthfood business in Ireland
• brand of fresh ground coffee in retail in Ireland
•  in frozen food logistics and distribution in Ireland with a significant chilled food business

no.2

•  brand of fresh ground coffee in foodservice in Ireland 
•  supplier of herbs and spices in Ireland

a market leader

•  a leading independent wine distributor in Ireland
•  the No.3 supplier in savoury snacks in Ireland

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

35

DCC Food & Beverage
(continued)

Revenue by 
Activity

     Indulgence             56%
     Logistics & Other   33%
     Healthfood             11%

Revenue by
Customer Group

40%
     Multiples 
     Symbols 
20%
     Food Service  19%
     Independents  12%
9%
     Wholesale 

Performance Management - key performance indicators 

2011 

2010

Operating cash flow 
Revenue per employee (constant currency) 
Return on total capital employed 
10 year operating profit CAGR 

Business and Markets
DCC Food & Beverage’s businesses have a strong 
track record in brand building and offer deep 
distribution reach with extensive customer service 
to the retail and foodservice sectors throughout 
Ireland. Services provided include marketing, category 
management, selling (key account management, 
direct sales representation and van sales), distribution 
and merchandising. The principal customers are 
grocery multiples, symbol and independent retailers, 
pharmacies, off licenses, hotels, restaurants and 
cafes. In Britain, wines are sold to multiple retailers and 
wholesale cash and carry customers.

Healthfoods
In Ireland, Kelkin is the leading and most comprehensive 
supplier of owned and agency brands of healthy foods 
and beverages, fine foods and vitamins, minerals & 
supplements (VMS), selling directly to both the grocery 
and pharmacy sectors. The Kelkin brand is recognised 
as the leading brand in the ambient health / “better for 
you” food sector and offers a healthy choice in many 
food categories. The Kelkin brand is also a strong and 
growing brand in the VMS sector. 

€12.6m 
€261k 
14.9% 
 4.3% 

 €21.9m 
€279k 
 10.2%
0.3%

Indulgence Foods
Robert Roberts is a value-added distributor of 
indulgence products in the grocery, impulse and 
food service sectors. The business has a strong, 
complementary range of owned and agency brands, 
specialising in wine, snacks, hot beverages, home 
cooking (herbs, spices and colourings), confectionery, 
and soft drinks. In the Irish market Robert Roberts 
is the number 1 supplier of freshly ground coffee to 
the retail sector and the number 2 supplier in the 
foodservice sector; the number 2 supplier of herbs 
and spices (following the successful acquisition and 
integration of the Goodall’s range during the year), the 
number 3 supplier of savoury snacks (through the KP 
range) and a leading independent distributor of sugar 
confectionery products. Through its wine distribution 
business, Findlater Wine & Spirit Group, Robert Roberts 
is a leading distributor of wine in Ireland to both the 
on and off trade, providing an extensive portfolio of 
international wine brands. Findlater Wine & Spirit Group 
offers its principals the largest on-trade reach in the Irish 
marketplace.

In Britain, Bottle Green is a leading supplier of branded 
(owned and agency) and exclusive retail solutions to the 
multiple off trade sector of the UK wine market. 

36

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
The Group’s strategy is 
to develop DCC Food & 
Beverage into a leading added 
value sales, marketing and 
distribution business

beverages, Robert Roberts coffee and 
speciality teas and Lemon’s confectionery as 
well as developing the newly acquired brands 
of Goodall’s and YR. The business will also 
continue to actively develop its extensive 
range of third party agency brands across 
its healthfoods and indulgence categories. 
Our wine and spirits business in Ireland will 
continue to develop its range and grow its 
market share, particularly in the on-trade. 
The UK wine business remains focussed on 
developing its own range of brands which 
include French Connection and Andrew 
Peace, along with selected agency brands.

Outlook
DCC Food & Beverage anticipates good 
operating profit growth, on a constant 
currency basis, in the year to 31 March 2012.

Logistics/Other
Allied Foods is the number one frozen food 
distributor in Ireland, with a developing chilled 
food distribution business. It offers a full 
range of temperature controlled supply chain 
solutions (procurement, brand management 
and selling, warehousing and distribution) 
to major retailers, manufacturers and food 
service customers.

company owned brands with the acquisition 
of the Goodall’s and YR brands (completed in 
December 2010), which contributed modestly 
in the fourth quarter. The Healthfoods 
business achieved strong sales growth in 
its Kelkin brand in both the grocery and 
pharmacy channels, however, this was offset 
somewhat by a decline in sales in certain of 
the third party grocery brands. 

Kylemore Foods Group (50% owned by DCC) 
is a leading operator of retail restaurants and 
contract catering services in Ireland, serving 
8 million customer meals annually throughout 
Ireland.

Performance for the Year Ended 31 
March 2011
DCC Food & Beverage reported a very strong 
increase in operating profit in the year of 
36.0%, despite the impact on the consumer 
of the Irish economy. This result was driven by 
good cost control following the actions taken 
in the prior year, operating efficiencies and the 
introduction of new products.

The Indulgence and Healthfoods businesses 
both delivered good operating profit growth. 
The Indulgence business experienced 
a decline in sales in Ireland, however, a 
deliberate policy of reduced promotional 
activity in certain categories allied with strong 
control of costs delivered operating profit 
growth. The business added to its portfolio of 

The Frozen and Chilled Logistics business 
performed well in a difficult market through 
its focus on operational efficiencies, however 
following a change in its supply chain strategy 
for Ireland an important customer has 
terminated its contract, which will impact the 
performance of the business in the year to 31 
March 2012.  

Strategy and Development
The Group’s strategy is to develop DCC Food 
& Beverage into a leading added value sales, 
marketing and distribution business, building 
number 1 or number 2 branded positions in 
focussed segments and delivering an above 
average return on capital. This will be achieved 
by building on current positions in the health, 
indulgence and logistics segments, both 
organically and through acquisition. 

The business will continue to increase its 
focus on brands, building on the progress that 
has been made to date with the company 
owned brands of Kelkin healthy foods and 

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

37

 
Financial Review

“ Another good year of  
growth and development”

DCC again achieved another year of growth and development, 
in a year when economic conditions in our main markets 
remained difficult. During the year the Group’s operating profits 
increased by 15.5%, on a constant currency basis, to €229.6 
million and we deployed an incremental €207.9 million on 
acquisitions and net capital expenditure. 

The return on invested capital improved 
again to 19.9% (2010: 18.4%). 

As the key financial performance indicators 
set out in Table 1 show, the Group 
performed strongly in 2011 delivering an 
improvement in revenues and operating 
profits and returns on capital employed 
whilst still retaining a strong, well funded 
and highly liquid balance sheet. 

Accounting Policies
The Group financial statements have been 
prepared in accordance with International 
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) 
as adopted by the European Union and 
their interpretations as issued by the 
International Accounting Standards Board 
(IASB) and the International Financial 
Reporting Interpretations Committee 
(IFRIC), applicable Irish law and the 
Listing Rules of the Irish and London 
Stock Exchanges. Details of the basis of 
preparation and the significant accounting 
policies of the Group are included on 
pages 80 to 88.

Table 1: Key financial performance indicators 

Revenue growth – constant currency 

Operating profit growth* – constant currency 

Interest cover (times) 

Net debt as a percentage of total equity 

Net debt/EBITDA (times) 

Working capital as a percentage of total revenue 

Working capital – days  

Debtors – days 

Operating cash flow (€’m) 

Free cash flow after interest and tax (€’m) 

Return on total capital employed 

* excluding exceptionals and amortisation of intangible assets.

38

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

2011 

2010 

25.4% 

15.5% 

15.8 

4.9% 

0.2 

1.6% 

4.9 

36.8 

269.6 

123.6 

19.9% 

5.1%

6.9%

17.7

6.4%

0.2

1.8%

4.6

35.3

297.8

229.1

18.4%

 
Group revenue increased by 25.4%, on 
a constant currency basis, primarily as a 
result of acquisitions and the impact of 
higher oil prices

Overview of Results

Summary Income Statement

2011 
€’m 

2010 
€’m 

Reported 

Constant
currency

Change on prior year

Revenue 

8,680.6 

6,725.0 

+29.1% 

+25.4%

Operating profit 
DCC Energy 
DCC SerCom 
DCC Healthcare 
DCC Environmental 
DCC Food & Beverage 
Group operating profit 
Share of associates’ (loss)/profit after tax 
Finance costs (net) 
Profit before exceptional items, amortisation of intangible assets and tax 
Amortisation of intangible assets 
Exceptional charge(net) 
Profit before tax 
Taxation 
Non-controlling interests 
Net earnings  

137.3 
46.0 
23.2 
11.6 
11.5 
229.6 
(0.2) 
(14.6) 
214.8 
 (10.9) 
 (14.3) 
189.6 
(43.8) 
(0.7) 
145.1 

113.1 
40.8 
21.1 
9.3 
 8.5 
192.8 
0.2
(10.9) 
182.1 
(6.2) 
 (11.0) 
164.9 
(33.2) 
(0.9)
130.8 

+21.4% 
+12.7% 
+9.7% 
+24.7% 
+36.0% 
+19.1% 

+17.2%
+9.9%
+7.2%
+19.7%
+35.6%
+15.5%

+18.0% 

+14.3%

15.0% 

+10.9%

+10.9% 

+6.9%

Adjusted earnings per share (cent) 

203.15 

177.98 

+14.1% 

+10.5%

Revenue
Group revenue increased by 25.4%, on 
a constant currency basis, primarily as a 
result of acquisitions and the impact of 
higher oil prices. DCC Energy had a 15.5% 
increase in sales volumes, however, on an 
organic basis, volumes declined by 1%. 
Excluding DCC Energy, Group revenue 
was 8.2% ahead of the prior year, on a 
constant currency basis, of which 5.4% 
was organic. 

Operating Profit
DCC had a very strong year with all 
five divisions reporting operating profit 
growth. Group operating profit increased 

by 15.5%, on a constant currency basis, 
to €229.6 million. Approximately two 
thirds of the growth was organic and 
the balance came from acquisitions 
completed in the current and prior year. 
The Group had a strong first half which 
was followed by an excellent third quarter, 
driven by the exceptionally cold weather 
conditions throughout northern Europe, 
particularly in the last six weeks of the 
quarter, which benefited DCC Energy, 
DCC’s largest division. However, trading 
in the fourth quarter in DCC Energy was 
adversely impacted by the milder weather 
conditions, particularly relative to the same 
period in the prior year.

Approximately 77% of the Group’s 
operating profit in the period was 
denominated in sterling. The average 
exchange rate at which sterling profits 
were translated during the year was 
Stg£0.8522 = €1, compared to an average 
translation rate of Stg£0.8873 = €1 for 
the prior year, an appreciation of 4% 
which resulted in a positive translation 
impact on Group operating profit of €6.9 
million. Consequently on a reported basis 
operating profit increased by 19.1%. 

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

39

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial Review (continued)

Interest was covered 
15.8 times by Group 
operating profit (17.7 
times in 2010)

DCC Energy, DCC’s largest division, had 
the benefit of another extremely cold winter 
overall and generated constant currency 
operating profit growth of 17.2%, driven by 
the 15.5% increase in volumes. 

the Group’s businesses and an increase 
in DCC Energy’s operating costs in 
November and December 2010 as it made 
significant efforts to service its customers 
during this extremely cold period.

DCC SerCom, DCC’s second largest 
division, delivered a strong performance 
with constant currency operating profit 
9.9% ahead of the prior year, reflecting 
another excellent result in SerCom 
Distribution (where operating profit, on 
a constant currency basis, was 16.6% 
ahead of the prior year). DCC Healthcare, 
DCC Environmental and DCC Food & 
Beverage each reported increases in 
operating profit.

The benefits of cost efficiencies achieved 
in the prior year were maintained, with 
operating costs 1% higher than the prior 
year (on a constant currency basis and 
adjusted for the impact of acquisitions and 
disposals) notwithstanding the organic 
increase in revenues in many of 

Although DCC’s operating margin 
(excluding exceptionals) was 2.6% (2.9% 
in 2010), it is important to note that this 
measurement of the overall Group margin 
is of limited relevance due to the influence 
of changes in oil product costs on the 
percentage. While changes in oil product 
costs will change percentage operating 
margins, this has little relevance in the 
downstream energy market in which 
DCC Energy operates, where profitability 
is driven by absolute contribution per 
litre (or tonne) of product sold and not 
by a percentage margin. Excluding DCC 
Energy, the operating margin (excluding 
exceptionals) for the Group’s other 
divisions was 3.6% (3.5% in 2010).

Table 2: Revenue - Constant Currency

H1 
€’m 

2011 
H2 
€’m 

FY 
€’m 

H1 
€’m 

2010 
H2 
€’m 

FY 
€’m 

H1 
% 

Change
H2 
% 

FY
%

DCC Energy 

2,722.4 

3,214.0 

5,936.4 

1,788.2 

2,631.9 

4,420.1 

+52.2% 

+22.1% 

+34.3%

DCC SerCom 

782.1 

1,044.5 

1,826.6 

665.1 

953.4 

1,618.5 

+17.6% 

+9.6% 

+12.9%

DCC Healthcare 

161.9 

152.5 

314.4 

163.8 

170.2 

334.0 

-1.1% 

-10.4% 

-5.9%

DCC Environmental 

51.7 

51.3 

103.0 

36.0 

41.4 

77.4 

+43.6% 

+24.0% 

+33.1%

DCC Food & Beverage 

137.2 

112.4 

249.6 

155.7 

119.3 

275.0 

-11.9% 

-5.8% 

-9.2%

Total 

  Weighting % 

3,855.3 
45.7% 

4,574.7 
54.3% 

8,430.0 
100.0% 

2,808.8 
41.8% 

3,916.2 
58.2% 

6,725.0 
100.0%

+37.3% 

+16.8% 

+25.4%

40

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
Profit before tax of €189.6 million increased 
by 10.9% on a constant currency basis 
(15.0% on a reported basis)

Excellent Second Half Performance
Overall, DCC’s results in the significantly 
more important second half of its financial 
year were excellent. An analysis of Group 
revenue and operating profit, on a constant 
currency basis, for the first half and the 
second half and the full year to 31 March 
2011 is set out in Tables 2 and 3.

Profit Before Net Exceptional Items, 
Amortisation of Intangible Assets 
and Tax
Profit before net exceptional items, 
amortisation of intangible assets and tax 
of €214.8 million increased by 14.3% on 
a constant currency basis (an increase of 
18.0% on a reported basis). 

A detailed review of the operating 
performance of each of DCC’s divisions is 
set out on pages 18 to 37.

Finance Costs (net) 
Net finance costs increased to €14.6 
million (2010: €10.9 million) primarily due 
to the additional interest costs associated 
with the €284 million of private placement 
debt which the Group raised in March 
2010 to fund future acquisitions and 
development. The Group’s net debt 
averaged €167 million, compared to €155 
million during the prior year. Interest was 
covered 15.8 times by Group operating 
profit before amortisation of intangible 
assets (17.7 times in 2010). 

Table 3: Operating Profit - Constant Currency

Net Exceptional Charge and 
Amortisation of Intangible Assets
The Group incurred a net exceptional charge 
before tax of €14.3 million as follows:

€’m

0.8

Gain on disposal of subsidiaries 
Cumulative foreign exchange 
translation losses relating to 
subsidiaries disposed of 
(3.1)
Restructuring of pension arrangements   5.0
Write down of property, plant  
and equipment 
Acquisition costs 
Reorganisation costs and other 

(6.1)
(3.6)
(7.3)

Total 

(14.3)

During the first half DCC Healthcare 
disposed of its Mobility & Rehabilitation 
businesses and DCC Food & Beverage 
disposed of one of its smaller Irish 
businesses. The net cash impact of these 
transactions (€28.4 million) resulted in a 
pre-tax gain on their book carrying values, 
including goodwill, of €0.8 million. These 
businesses accounted for less than 1% of 
DCC’s operating profit for the year ended 
31 March 2010. 

IAS 21 requires that any foreign exchange 
translation differences which have been 
written off directly to reserves in prior years 
be recycled through the Income Statement 
on the disposal of the related asset. The 
amount of such differences relating to the 
above disposals, which did not have any 
impact on the Group’s total equity, was 
€3.1 million. 

Restructuring of certain of the Group’s 
pension arrangements during the year 
gave rise to a net reduction in pension 
liabilities and an exceptional gain of €5.0 
million.

H1 
€’m 

2011 
H2 
€’m 

FY 
€’m 

H1 
€’m 

2010 
H2 
€’m 

FY 
€’m 

H1 
% 

Change
H2 
% 

FY
%

DCC Energy 

29.0 

103.5 

132.5 

25.2 

87.9 

113.1 

+14.8% 

+17.9% 

+17.2%

DCC SerCom 

13.9 

31.0 

44.9 

13.7 

27.1 

40.8 

+1.3% 

+14.2% 

+9.9%

DCC Healthcare 

10.9 

11.8 

22.7 

DCC Environmental 

DCC Food & Beverage 

6.7 

5.4 

4.4 

6.1 

11.1 

11.5 

8.7 

4.7 

4.3 

12.4 

21.1 

+25.8% 

-5.6 % 

+7.2%

4.6 

4.2 

9.3 

+43.9% 

-4.9% 

+19.7%

8.5 

+26.0% 

+45.2% 

+35.6%

Total 

  Weighting % 

65.9 
29.6% 

156.8 
70.4% 

222.7 
100.0% 

56.6 
29.4% 

136.2 
70.6% 

192.8 
100.0%

+16.5% 

+15.1% 

+15.5%

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

41

 
 
 
 
 
Financial Review (continued)

Return on Capital Employed
The creation of shareholder value through 
the delivery of consistent, long-term 
returns well in excess of the cost of capital 
is one of DCC’s core strengths. DCC 
again achieved excellent returns on total 
capital employed (as detailed in Table 
4), generating a return of 19.9% on total 
capital employed (18.4% in 2010).

DCC’s return on total capital employed 
has remained consistently high through 
a combination of good organic growth, 
well executed acquisitions and excellent 
integration synergies.

Table 4: Return on total capital employed

2011 
ROCE 

2010
ROCE

26.9%  26.5%
16.2%  16.1%
16.3%  14.6%
9.7%
10.0% 
14.9%  10.2%
19.9%  18.4%

DCC Energy 
DCC SerCom 
DCC Healthcare* 
DCC Environmental 
DCC Food & Beverage 
Group 

* Continuing activities

CAGR %

13.1%
9.5%
10.4%

The Group made a provision of €6.1 million 
against the carrying value of one of its 
buildings.

IFRS 3 (revised) requires that the 
professional (legal and financial due 
diligence) and tax (such as stamp duty) 
costs relating to the evaluation and 
completion of an acquisition are expensed 
in the Income Statement whereas 
previously they were capitalised as part of 
the acquisition cost. During the year these 
costs amounted to €3.6 million.

Adjusted Earnings Per Share
Adjusted earnings per share of 203.15 
cent increased by 10.5% on a constant 
currency basis (an increase of 14.1% on a 
reported basis). The increase was 11.5% 
in the first half and 10.2% in the seasonally 
more important second half.

The compound annual growth rate in 
DCC’s adjusted earnings per share over 
the last 15, 10 and 5 years is as follows;

The balance of the net exceptional charge 
relates primarily to restructuring costs 
arising from the integration of recently 
acquired businesses. 

15 years  
10 years  
5 years  

(i.e. since 1996)  
(i.e. since 2001)  
(i.e. since 2006)  

Dividend
The total dividend for the year of 74.18 
cent per share represents an increase of 
10.0% over the previous year. The dividend 
is covered 2.7 times (2.6 times in 2010) by 
adjusted earnings per share. Over the last 
17 years (i.e. since DCC’s flotation on the 
Irish and London stock exchanges), DCC’s 
dividend has grown at a compound annual 
rate of 15.6%.

The charge for the amortisation of 
intangible assets increased to €10.9 million 
(2010: €6.2 million).

Profit Before Tax
Profit before tax of €189.6 million 
increased by 10.9% on a constant 
currency basis (15.0% on a reported 
basis).

Taxation
The effective tax rate for the Group 
increased to 21% compared to 19% in 
the previous year, primarily due to the 
increased proportion of profits arising in 
Britain and continental Europe.

42

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
DCC again achieved excellent 
returns on capital employed, 
generating a return of 19.9% 
on total capital employed 
(18.4% in 2010)

Table 5: Summary of cash flows

Year ended 31 March  

Operating profit 

(Increase)/decrease in working capital: 

2011 
€’m 

2011 
€’m 

229.6 

2010 
€’m 

2010
€’m

192.8

DCC Energy 
DCC SerCom 
DCC Healthcare 
DCC Environmental 
DCC Food & Beverage 

Depreciation and other 

Operating cash flow 

Capital expenditure (net) 
Interest and tax paid 

Free cash flow 

Acquisitions 
Disposals 
Dividends 
Exceptional items 
Share issues 

Net inflow 
Opening net debt 
Translation 

Closing net debt 

(19.8) 
8.9 
2.1 
0.6 
(2.6) 

45.9 
8.7 
6.1 
1.0 
10.1 

71.8

 33.2

297.8

(35.7)
(33.0)

229.1

(133.6)
0.8
(52.5)
(12.8)
7.7

38.7
(90.7)
 (1.5)

(53.5)

(10.8) 

 50.8 

269.6 

(77.2) 
(68.8) 

123.6 

(78.3) 
28.4 
(58.3) 
(8.9) 
3.8 

10.3 
(53.5) 
 2.0 

(45.2) 

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

43

Cash Flow
In recent years the Group has achieved a 
significant reduction in net working capital 
days which reduced from 16.4 days at 
31 March 2008 to 4.6 days at 31 March 
2010. These gains were largely retained 
at 31 March 2011 when net working 
capital days were 4.9 days. The cash flow 
generated by the Group for the year ended 
31 March 2011 is summarised in Table 5.

Operating cash flow in 2011 was €269.6 
million compared to €297.8 million in 2010 
which benefited from a net reduction in 
working capital in that year. After higher 
than normal capital expenditure and tax 
payments, free cash flow was €123.6 million 
compared to €229.1 million in the prior year. 

The cash impact of acquisitions in the year 
was €78.3 million. Net capital expenditure 
in the year of €77.2 million is significantly 
higher than the prior year amount of €35.7 
million and compares to a depreciation 
charge of €52.9 million. DCC Energy’s 
net capital expenditure of €40.8 million is 
higher than its depreciation charge (€31.2 
million) due to increased investment to 
support the ongoing development of new 
business (predominantly the upgrading of 
the distribution fleet). In November 2010, 
DCC SerCom’s UK Retail distribution 
business purchased a 250,000 square feet 
warehouse near Wellingborough, north of 
London. The total cost of the warehouse 
including fit-out was €17 million. This 
investment allows Gem Distribution to 
market its third party logistics services 
to software and DVD publishers from a 
modern, customised facility within easy 
reach of the south east of England. 

The exceptional cash outflow of €8.9 
million primarily relates to restructuring 
costs. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial Review (continued)

DCC’s financial 
position remains very 
strong, well funded 
and highly liquid.

Balance Sheet and Group Financing
DCC’s financial position remains very 
strong, well funded and highly liquid. At 
31 March 2011 the Group had net debt 
of €45.2 million (2010: €53.5 million) 
and total equity of €931.9 million (2010: 
€836.9 million). This equates to gearing 
of 4.9% (2010: 6.4%) and a net debt 
to EBITDA ratio of 0.2 times (2010: 0.2 
times). DCC has significant cash resources 
and relatively long term debt maturities. 
Substantially all of the Group’s debt has 
been raised in the US private placement 
market with an average credit margin of 
1.23% over floating Euribor/Libor and 
an average maturity of 6.0 years from 31 
March 2011.

The Group’s strong funding and liquidity 
position at 31 March 2011 is summarised 
in Table 6.

Substantially all of the Group’s debt has 
been raised in the US private placement 
market. 

The composition of net debt at 31 March 
2011 and 2010 is analysed in Table 7. 
Further analysis of DCC’s cash, debt and 
financial instrument balances at 31 March 
2011 is set out in Notes 27 to 30 in the 
financial statements.

Financial Risk Management
Group financial risk management is 
governed by policies and guidelines which 
are reviewed and approved annually by 
the Board of Directors. These policies and 
guidelines primarily cover foreign exchange 
risk, commodity price risk, credit risk, 
liquidity risk and interest rate risk. The 
principal objective of these policies and 
guidelines is the minimisation of financial 
risk at reasonable cost. The Group does 

not trade in financial instruments nor 
does it enter into any leveraged derivative 
transactions. DCC’s Group Treasury 
function centrally manages the Group’s 
funding and liquidity requirements. 
Divisional and subsidiary management, in 
conjunction with Group Treasury, manage 
foreign exchange and commodity price 
exposures within approved policies and 
guidelines. Further detail in relation to the 
Group’s financial risk management and 
its derivative financial instrument position 
is contained in Note 46 to the financial 
statements.

Foreign Exchange Risk Management
DCC’s reporting currency and that in 
which its share capital is denominated is 
the euro. Exposures to other currencies, 
principally sterling and the US dollar, arise 
in the course of ordinary trading.

Table 6: Funding and liquidity position

Table 7: Analysis of net debt

Cash and short term bank deposits 
Overdrafts 
Cash and cash equivalents 

Bank debt repayable within 1 year 
US Private Placement debt repayable*: 
Y/e 31/3/2012 
Y/e 31/3/2014 
Y/e 31/3/2015 
Y/e 31/3/2016 
Y/e 31/3/2017 
Y/e 31/3/2018 
Y/e 31/3/2020 
Y/e 31/3/2022 

Other  
Debt 
Net debt 

* Inclusive of related swap derivatives

2011
€’m 

700.3
 (34.2)
666.1

(0.5)

(5.3)
(62.9)
 (216.2)
(14.4)
(112.5)
(52.9)
(205.2)
 (43.1)

 1.7
(711.3)
(45.2)

44

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

Non-current assets: 
Derivative financial instruments 

Current assets: 
Derivative financial instruments 
Cash and short term deposits 

Non-current liabilities: 
Borrowings  
Derivative financial instruments 
Unsecured Notes due 2013 to 2022 

Current liabilities: 
Borrowings 
Derivative financial instruments 
Unsecured Notes due 2011 

Net debt 

2011 
€’m 

2010
€’m

84.4 

101.9

3.5 
700.3 
703.8 

1.4
714.9
716.3

(0.7) 
(30.1) 
(761.5) 
(792.3) 

(35.3) 
(0.5) 
(5.3) 
(41.1) 
(45.2) 

(2.5)
(19.3)
(791.2)
(813.0)

(58.2)
(0.5)
 -
(58.7)
(53.5)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Credit Risk Management
DCC transacts with a variety of high credit 
rated financial institutions for the purpose 
of placing deposits and entering into 
derivative contracts. The Group actively 
monitors its credit exposure to each 
counterparty to ensure compliance with 
limits approved by the Board.

Interest Rate Risk and Debt/Liquidity 
Management
DCC maintains a strong balance sheet with 
long-term debt funding and cash balances 
with deposit maturities up to three 
months. In addition, the Group maintains 
both committed and uncommitted credit 
lines with its relationship banks. DCC 
borrows at both fixed and floating rates 
of interest. It has swapped its fixed rate 
borrowings to floating interest rates, using 
interest rate and cross currency interest 
rate swaps which qualify for fair value 
hedge accounting under IAS 39. The 
Group mitigates interest rate risk on its 
borrowings by matching, to the extent 
possible, the maturity of its cash balances 
with the interest rate reset periods on the 
swaps related to its borrowings.

A significant proportion of the Group’s 
profits and net assets are denominated in 
sterling. The sterling:euro exchange rate 
strengthened marginally from 0.8894 at 
31 March 2010 to 0.8837 at 31 March 
2011. The average rate at which the 
Group translates its UK operating profits 
strengthened by 4.0% from 0.8873 in 
2010 to 0.8522 in 2011.

Approximately 77% of the Group’s 
operating profit for the year ended 31 
March 2011 was denominated in sterling 
and this is offset to a limited degree by 
certain natural economic hedges that exist 
within the Group, for example, a proportion 
of the purchases by certain of its Irish 
businesses are sterling denominated. DCC 
does not hedge the remaining translation 
exposure on the profits of foreign currency 
subsidiaries on the basis and to the 
extent that they are not intended to be 
repatriated. The 4.0% strengthening in the 
average translation rate of sterling, referred 
to above, positively impacted the Group’s 
reported operating profit by €6.9 million in 
the year ended 31 March 2011. 

DCC has investments in sterling operations 
which are highly cash generative and 
cash generated from these operations 
is reinvested in sterling denominated 
development activities rather than being 
repatriated into euro. The Group seeks 
to manage the resultant foreign currency 
translation risk through borrowings 
denominated in or swapped (utilising 
currency swaps or cross currency interest 
rate swaps) into sterling, although this 
hedge is offset by the strong ongoing 
cash flow generated from the Group’s 
sterling operations leaving DCC with a net 
investment in sterling assets. The marginal 
strengthening in the value of sterling 
against the euro during the year ended 31 

March 2011, referred to above, gave rise 
to a translation gain of €4.6 million on the 
translation of DCC’s sterling denominated 
net asset position at 31 March 2011 as set 
out in the Group Statement of Changes in 
Equity in the financial statements.

Where sales or purchases are invoiced 
in other than the local currency, and 
there is not a natural hedge with other 
activities within the Group, DCC generally 
hedges between 50% and 90% of those 
transactions for the subsequent two 
months.

Commodity Price Risk Management
The Group is exposed to commodity 
cost price risk in its oil distribution and 
LPG businesses. Market dynamics are 
such that these commodity cost price 
movements are immediately reflected in 
oil commodity sales prices and, within 
a short period, in LPG commodity sales 
prices. Fixed price oil supply contracts 
are occasionally provided to certain 
customers for periods of less than one 
year. To manage this exposure, the Group 
enters into matching forward commodity 
contracts, not designated as hedges 
under IAS 39. While LPG price changes 
are being implemented, the Group 
hedges a proportion of its anticipated 
LPG commodity exposure, with such 
transactions qualifying as ‘highly probable’ 
forecast transactions for IAS 39 hedge 
accounting purposes. In addition, to cover 
certain customer segments for which it 
is commercially beneficial to avoid price 
increases, a proportion of LPG commodity 
price and related foreign exchange 
exposure is hedged. All commodity 
hedging counterparties are approved by 
the Board.

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

45

Sustainability Report

Following the introduction by the Chief Executive on 
page 12, details of our sustainability approach and 
activities are set out in this report. DCC is committed 
to evolving our sustainability reporting in line with 
best practice and communicating our performance 
in this area. 

Report Profile, Boundary and Scope 
This is DCC’s third Sustainability Report 
and follows the same reporting cycle and 
fiscal year as the Annual Report. The 
scope of this report includes subsidiaries 
which contribute in excess of 99% Group 
profitability1. 

The Corporate Sustainability Working 
Group (CSWG), which comprises 
senior Group, divisional and subsidiary 
management, was formed in 2009 
and reports to the Chief Executive. In 
determining report content the CSWG 
consulted with senior management to 
determine aspects that were material at 
a divisional level. These formed the basis 
for a Group level materiality matrix which 
identified four material aspects - direct 
economic value added, climate change, 
health & safety and business ethics - which 
are reported on below. 

Governance, Structures and Processes
The role of the CSWG is to develop 
appropriate corporate sustainability 
policies, processes and performance 
indicators across the DCC Group and to 
support the integration of sustainability 
into our business strategies to deliver 
competitive advantage. 

Presentations to the DCC plc Board and 
to divisional management have been 
completed and sustainability workshops 
involving all subsidiary management teams 
will be held in the first half of the current 
financial year. External experts have been 
invited to participate to provide industry 
examples of best practice. 

Stakeholder Engagement
In general, feedback from investors has 
been limited, though positive. During 
2011 we will, at a Group level, increase 
our engagement with investors and 
other stakeholders to identify any further 
informational requirements. At subsidiary 
level, management will formally identify and 
engage with key stakeholders including 
customers, suppliers, employees and the 
local community.

Our People
DCC employs 8,037 people across the 
Group, approximately 90% of whom are in 
permanent employment.

Employee numbers 
by division

Employee numbers 
by geography

3,524
DCC Energy 
1,668
DCC SerCom  
1,113
DCC Healthcare 
DCC Environmental 
761
DCC Food & Beverage  930
41 
DCC Corporate  

UK 
5,461 
1,725
Ireland 
Continental Europe  715
136
Other 

Graduate Recruitment Programme 
As a diverse and expanding business, it 
is critical to DCC’s long term sustainability 
to develop senior executives with multi-
sector, multi-functional and multi-country 
skill sets who can grow and develop into 
international business leaders in the future. 

46

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

One action in support of this during the 
year was the implementation of a new 
graduate recruitment programme, the 
DCC Future Leaders Programme. This was 
launched in October 2010 in Britain and 
Ireland to recruit a select cadre of young, 
high quality and mobile graduates. There 
was a strong response to the recruitment 
programme with over 1,300 applicants. 
Offers were made to the top performers 
from the programme and DCC will have 
10 graduates taking up an initial two year 
rotation programme in September 2011. 

Material Aspects
As noted earlier, the CSWG in conjunction 
with senior divisional management, 
determined four sustainability aspects 
to be material to the DCC Group. These 
CO2e emissions (tonnes) by division
aspects are common to all subsidiaries 
although additional aspects, for example 
sourcing of raw materials, may be 
identified as material to a particular 
business and addressed accordingly.

2010

2011

2010  %
55,244  55
16,546  17
13,409  13
9,772  10
5
5,133 

Total 

6,313  

1. Direct Economic Value Added
To be a sustainable company, we must 
2011*4  % 
create value for our shareholders and 
62,426   54 
DCC Energy 
DCC Environmental 
22,502   19 
other stakeholders. In the year ended 
DCC Food & Beverage  13,724   12 
March 2011, €557 million of added value 
11,340   10 
DCC Healthcare 
5 
DCC SerCom 
was created, taking account of the cost 
of inputs from suppliers of €8,124 million 
and revenue of €8,681 million. This 
value added is distributed in the form of 
remuneration to employees of €327 million, 
corporate taxes of €42 million, interest 
to lenders of €15 million and dividends2 
to shareholders, including many Group 
employees, of €62 million. €111 million 
is retained in the business to fund further 
growth. 

116,306  

100,104 

CO2e emissions (tonnes) by source

KPI  - LTIFR

Number of lost time injuries6 per  200,000 hours worked

2011

2010

KPI  - LTISR

Number of calendar days lost per  200,000 hours worked

2011*

2010

2011*

2010

2.5

2.8

48

42

Scope 1 
Company transport 
On site fuel use 
Scope 2 
Electricity 

2011*   % 

82,968   71 

9,070  

8 

2010  %

71,296  71

8,813 

9

24,268   21 

19,995  20

Total 

116,306  

100,104 

 
 
 
 
Revenue
€8,681m
(2010: €6,725m) 

DCC plc

Goods and
Services
€8,124m
(2010: €6,241m) 

Value Added
€557m
(2010: €484m)

Corporate 
Taxes
€42m
(2010: €33m) 

Employees
€327m
(2010: €291m) 

Lenders
€15m
(2010: €11m) 

Retained
€111m
(2010: €93m)

Dividends to
Shareholders
€62m
(2010: €56m)

 Following a review of our approach to 
corporate giving, DCC has entered into 
a three year partnership with Social 
Entrepreneurs Ireland (SEI), whereby we 
will contribute a total of €360,000 over 
the period

Corporate Giving
Following a review of our approach to 
corporate giving, DCC has entered into 
a three year partnership with Social 
Entrepreneurs Ireland (SEI), whereby we 
will contribute a total of €360,000 over 
the period. Established in 2004, SEI is a 
privately funded, not-for-profit organisation 
that supports social entrepreneurs in 
growing their ideas from concept to reality. 

“ In order for social entrepreneurs to turn 
their vision into reality and tackle some of 
our entrenched social and environmental 
problems they need high quality support 
and mentoring. In partnering with 
Social Entrepreneurs Ireland, DCC have 
shown real leadership in stepping up to 
the plate, providing both financial and 
mentor support to our network of social 
entrepreneurs and in doing so making a 
tangible and hugely positive difference to 
communities throughout Ireland.” 

Sean Coughlan, Chief Executive, Social 
Entrepreneurs Ireland. 

2. Climate Change
The reality and threat of climate change 
is clear. The response from policy makers 
and consumers is growing year by year 
and society is re-evaluating consumption 
patterns and use of natural resources. This 
in turn requires the business community to 
respond positively to new commercial risks 
and opportunities. 

The DCC Carbon Management Plan, 
established in 2008, sets out objectives for 
measuring, reducing and reporting carbon 
emissions. The plan is currently being 
revised to include medium and long term 
carbon reduction targets. 

In the UK the CRC Energy Efficiency 
Scheme has been significantly amended 
following the Comprehensive Spending 
Review initiated by the new government in 
October 2010. Originally designed to allow 
revenue to be recycled to the participants, 
the Scheme is now effectively a carbon 
levy on fuel and electricity consumption, 
payable annually from July 2012 onwards. 
Some uncertainty still surrounds the final 
details of the Scheme but DCC’s UK 
subsidiaries have robust reporting systems 
in place to provide the required energy 
consumption data to the Environment 
Agency in July 2011. 

DCC responds annually to the investor 
led Carbon Disclosure Project, providing 
detailed emissions data and explanations 
of our strategic approach and the 
management of risks and opportunities 
from climate change. 

Details of our energy use and carbon 
emissions are presented below. The DCC 
Energy and Carbon Reporting Guidelines, 
based on the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, 
set out in detail the sources included in 
the DCC Group carbon footprint3. Briefly 
these are:
• subsidiaries of DCC plc1 
•  the energy sources where DCC is the 
counter party to the contract to supply
•  direct usage of electricity and fuels to 

heat, light and operate buildings

•  fuels used to operate company owned 

vehicles, plant and machinery

•  electricity and gas purchased and 

recharged to subtenants

•  any new sites from the point at which 

they are operational

•  any new acquisitions from the point at 

which they are acquired

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

47

 
 
Sustainability Report (continued)

Employee numbers 

Employee numbers 

CO2e emissions (tonnes) by division

by division

by geography

2011

2010

DCC Energy 

DCC SerCom  

DCC Healthcare 

DCC Environmental 

3,524

1,668

1,113

761

DCC Food & Beverage  930

DCC Corporate  

41 

UK 

Ireland 

5,466 
1,725
Continental Europe  715
136

Other 

2011*4  % 
62,426   54 
DCC Energy 
DCC Environmental 
22,502   19 
DCC Food & Beverage  13,724   12 
11,340   10 
DCC Healthcare 
5 
DCC SerCom 

6,313  

2010  %
55,244  55
16,546  17
13,409  13
9,772  10
5
5,133 

Total 

116,306  

100,104 

Employee numbers 

Employee numbers 

CO2e emissions (tonnes) by division

CO2e emissions (tonnes) by source

by division

by geography

2011

2010

2011

2010

DCC Energy 

DCC SerCom  

DCC Healthcare 

DCC Environmental 

3,524

1,668

1,113

761

DCC Food & Beverage  930

DCC Corporate  

41 

UK 

Ireland 

Other 

Continental Europe  715

5,461 

1,725

136

DCC Energy 

DCC Environmental 

DCC Healthcare 

DCC SerCom 

2011*4  % 

62,426   54 

22,502   19 

11,340   10 

6,313  

5 

2010  %
55,244  55
16,546  17
13,409  13
9,772  10
5
5,133 

DCC Food & Beverage  13,724   12 

Total 

116,306  

100,104 

Scope 1 
Company transport 
On site fuel use 
Scope 2 
Electricity 

2011*   % 
82,968   71 
8 

9,070  

2010  %
71,296  71
9

8,813 

24,268   21 

19,995  20

Total 

116,306  

100,104 

All remedial actions identified in the notices 
have been completed to the satisfaction of 
the regulator. 

KPI  - LTIFR
Number of lost time injuries6 per  200,000 hours worked

KPI  - LTISR
Number of calendar days lost per  200,000 hours worked

2.5

2.8

48

42

2011

Transport and heating fuels make up 
CO2e emissions (tonnes) by source
the direct sources of primary energy 
purchased within the Group. In total they 
represented 1,454,813 Gigajoules (GJ) 
of energy. Indirect energy consumption 
amounted to 164,570 GJ from electricity 
purchased. While a number of subsidiaries 
purchase some of their electricity from 
renewable sources this has not been 
recorded during the year. Systems to 
record renewable energy purchases have 
8,813 
been introduced and will be reported in 
24,268   21 
next year’s Sustainability Report.

Scope 1 
Company transport 
On site fuel use 
Scope 2 
Electricity 

2011*   % 
82,968   71 
8 

2010

9,070  

2010  %
71,296  71
9

19,995  20

Total 

116,306  

100,104 

Total carbon emissions increased by 
16% over the prior year, primarily driven 
by acquisitions in the Energy division 
and increased processing capacity in the 
environmental and healthcare businesses.

2011*
2010
Outside of emissions generated by our 
own operations, as reported above, the 
use of fuel products sold within the Energy 
division represent the most significant 
2011*
source of indirect emissions beyond our 
2010
immediate control. The use of oil, LPG 
and natural gas sold by DCC Energy 
subsidiaries account for approximately 
19 million tonnes of CO2e emissions. 
Opportunities to reduce these emissions 
over time include the development of lower 
carbon fuels and the provision of energy 
efficiency advice to customers.

KPI  - LTIFR
Number of lost time injuries6 per  200,000 hours worked

KPI  - LTISR
Number of calendar days lost per  200,000 hours worked

2011*
2010

2011*
2010

During the year GB Oils was fined 
Stg£5,000 for polluting a tributary of 
the River Clyst in Devon in July 2009, 
contrary to Section 83(1) of the UK 
Water Resources Act 1991. The Court 
recognised the work undertaken by the 
company to remediate the environmental 
impact of the spill. Approximately 
20,000 litres of diesel was lost when an 
underground pipeline failed at a recently 
acquired depot. Underground pipework at 
our oil depots is pressure tested annually 
and, where possible, replaced with over 
ground pipework. There were no other 
significant releases of oil or chemicals 
during the period. 
2.8

2.5

42

48

In June 2010 the Scottish Government 
released its Zero Waste plan which 
establishes a goal of recycling 70% of 
Scotland’s waste by 2025. Supporting 
this agenda, the William Tracey Group 
has launched a food and organic waste 
collection service for customers. A key part 
of the service will be an anaerobic digestion 
treatment plant constructed by Scottish 
and Southern Energy (SEE) at Traceys 
former landfill site in Barkip, North Ayrshire 
where landfill gas is currently being used to 
generate renewable energy. The new SSE 
facility will be capable of processing around 
75,000 tonnes of organic waste annually 
and producing 2.5 MW of electricity 
which will contribute towards Scotland’s 
renewable energy targets.

Environmental compliance and spills
During the year 47 routine site inspections 
of our licenced facilities were completed by 
environmental regulators. Overall our level 
of compliance with permitting requirements 
was high. During one inspection, two non 
compliances, principally due to extreme 
weather conditions causing operational 
difficulties, were recorded and resulted in 
the issue of two enforcement notices. 

48

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Health and safety is a key priority 
for all divisional and subsidiary 
managing directors

Employee numbers 

Employee numbers 

CO2e emissions (tonnes) by division

CO2e emissions (tonnes) by source

by division

by geography

2011

2010

2011

2010

DCC Energy 

DCC SerCom  

DCC Healthcare 

DCC Environmental 

3,524

1,668

1,113

761

DCC Food & Beverage  930

DCC Corporate  

41 

UK 

Ireland 

Other 

Continental Europe  715

5,461 

1,725

136

DCC Energy 

DCC Environmental 

DCC Healthcare 

DCC SerCom 

2011*4  % 

62,426   54 

22,502   19 

11,340   10 

6,313  

5 

2010  %

55,244  55

16,546  17

13,409  13

9,772  10

5,133 

5

DCC Food & Beverage  13,724   12 

Total 

116,306  

100,104 

Scope 1 

Company transport 

On site fuel use 

2011*   % 

82,968   71 

9,070  

8 

2010  %

71,296  71

8,813 

9

Scope 2 

Electricity 

24,268   21 

19,995  20

Total 

116,306  

100,104 

KPI  - LTIFR
Number of lost time injuries6 per  200,000 hours worked

2011*
2010

2.5

2.8

KPI  - LTISR
Number of calendar days lost per  200,000 hours worked

2011*
2010

48

42

3. Health & Safety
Health and safety is a key priority for 
all divisional and subsidiary managing 
directors, in particular in the Energy and 
Environmental divisions where the potential 
impacts are significant given the nature of 
the businesses and the products handled. 
Health and safety resources in GB Oils 
have been strengthened following the 
acquisition of two oil terminals in Scotland 
during the year. A particular focus on 
process safety is ongoing to minimise the 
likelihood of a major incident and to meet 
increasing regulatory demands.

The International Safety Rating System 
(ISRS) audit tool, developed by DNV, a 
leading risk management company, is 
being phased in across our energy and 
environmental subsidiaries. The audit 
is demanding, requiring a high level of 
verification and covering fifteen health and 
safety management processes including 
leadership, learning from events and 
management review in addition to risk and 
asset management. The ISRS tool allows 
us to benchmark our performance, identify 
areas for improvement and measure 
progress objectively. 

Wastecycle’s health and safety 
management system was certified to the 
international OHSAS180017 standard 
in February 2011 – an independent 
recognition of the efforts by all employees 
to adopt a consistent and proactive 
approach to safety management. 

In addition to OHSAS18001 certifications 
in the Environmental subsidiaries, SerCom 
Solutions health and safety management 
systems in Ireland and Poland are also 
certified to the OHSAS18001 standard. 

Individual subsidiaries use a range of 
indicators to measure health and safety 
performance. Lost time injury rates (lagging 
indicators) are recorded at Group level 
for the operations within the scope of 
this report and this year the frequency of 
accidents that resulted in lost time fell from 
2.8 per 200,000 hours worked to 2.55. 
At the same time the lost time severity 
rate increased from 42 to 48 days lost 
per 200,000 hours worked reflecting, on 
average, more days lost per accident. 
This increase was driven by a number of 
accidents that resulted in over 100 days 
lost. No fatalities were recorded in the 
year ended 31 March 2011 (tragically 
one fatality was recorded in the prior 
year as reported previously). Absentee 
and occupational diseases rates are not 
compiled at Group level.

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

49

 
 
 
 
Sustainability Report (continued)

Report Application Level

C

C+

B

B+

A

A+

G3 Profile
Disclosures

G3 Management
Approach
Disclosures

G3 Performance 
Indicators & 
Sector Supplement
Performance 
Indicators

t
u
p
t
u
O

t
u
p
t
u
O

t
u
p
t
u
O

Report on:
1.1
2.1 - 2.10
3.1 - 3.8, 3.10 - 3.12
4.1 - 4.4, 4.14 - 4.15

Not required

Report on all criteria listed 
for Level C plus:
1.2
3.9, 3.13
4.5 - 4.13, 4.16 - 4.17

Management Approach 
Disclosures for each 
Indicator Category

Same a requirement for 
Level B 

Management Approach 
Disclosures for each 
Indicator Category

d
e
r
u
s
s
A
y

l
l

a
n
r
e
t
x
E

t
r
o
p
e
R

d
e
r
u
s
s
A
y

l
l

a
n
r
e
t
x
E

t
r
o
p
e
R

d
e
r
u
s
s
A
y

l
l

a
n
r
e
t
x
E

t
r
o
p
e
R

Report on a minimum of 
10 Performance 
Indicators, including at 
least one from each of: 
Economic, Social and 
Environmental.

Report on a minimum of 
20 Performance 
Indicators, least one from 
each of: Economic, 
Environmental, Human 
Rights, Labour Society, 
Product Responsibility.

Report on each core G3 
and Sector Supplement* 
Indicator with due regard to 
the Materiality Principle by 
either: a) reporting on the 
indicator or b) explaining 
the reason for its omission

l

i

s
e
r
u
s
o
c
s
D
d
r
a
d
n
a
t
S

* Sector supplement in final version

Reporting
This report meets the requirements of the 
Global Reporting Initiative level C+ standard, 
as identified in the content table below. 
Feedback on this Sustainability Report is 
welcome and should be addressed to John 
Barcroft, Head of Group Environment, Health 
& Safety or David Byrne, Senior Independent 
Director.

4. Business Ethics
In last year’s Sustainability Report we 
noted our decision to provide more 
practical support to our employees in 
the area of business ethics by formally 
articulating a set of guidelines which 
would enshrine principles for the everyday 
conduct of business. As a diversified 
Group, the freedom to manage and make 
decisions locally in our business, which 
has been critical to DCC’s success, has 
been underpinned by a common set 
of values of ethical behaviour, trust and 
accountability. These values have now 
been enshrined in a set of guidelines, 
the DCC Business Conduct Guidelines, 
which set out our common commitment 
to the highest standards of behaviour 
in the everyday carrying out of our 
responsibilities. 

Given the breadth of DCC’s operations 
and the different legal and regulatory 
environments in which all DCC’s 
businesses operate, the guidelines do not 
set out to address every situation. They 
are complementary to the employment 
practices and policies already set out for 
employees by each of DCC’s operating 
subsidiaries. As well as outlining basic legal 
and ethical principles, they offer guidance 
on behaviour, framed with useful examples 
in respect of the complex issues that can 
arise in the business environment in which 
we operate. 

The guidelines have been distributed to 
employees in all the Group’s subsidiaries. 
They have been translated into the local 
languages as required for DCC’s European 
businesses and also into Chinese for the 
employees based there.

Content table for GRI Level C
GRI Section No. 
1.1 
2.1 – 2.10 
3.1 – 3.8 
3.10 – 3.12 
4.1 – 4.4 
4.14 – 4.15 
EC1 
EN3 
EN4 
EN16 
EN17 
EN23 
EN28 
LA1 
LA7 
SO6 

Standard Disclosure 
Statement from Chief Executive 
Organisational Profile 
Profile, Boundary and Scope  
Restatement 
Governance 
Stakeholder Engagement 
Direct Economic Value 
Direct Energy Consumption 
Indirect Energy Consumption 
Greenhouse gases 
Other indirect sources 
Spillage 
Non-Compliance 
Workforce 
Rates of injury 
Political Contributions 

50

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

Report Page
12
Inside Front Cover
46
46
56
46
46
48
48
48
48
48
48
46
49
53

1  Virtus, a US healthcare subsidiary with 131 employees, 
in which DCC is a 51% shareholder, is not included 
within the scope of this report. It will be included in next 
year’s report.

2  Paid and proposed for the year ended 31 March 2011.

3  Carbon dioxide makes up over 98% of the Groups’ 
greenhouse gas emissions. Other greenhouse gas 
emissions include fugitive refrigerant gases from our 
chilled foods logistics business and methane emissions 
from a small capped landfill. Carbon dioxide emissions 
arising from our composting operations are considered 
to be part of the natural cycle and are not included in 
the reported figures.

4  Data marked with the symbol * is included in the scope 
of assurance provided by KPMG LLP. 

5  Company employees only, contractors are not included 
in lost time injury rates.

6  A Lost Time Injury is defined as any injury that results 
in at least one day off work following the day of the 
accident.

7  Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series 
standard.

8  International Standard on Assurance Engagements 
3000: Assurance engagements other than Audits 
or reviews of Historical information, issued by the 
International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Independent Assurance Report to DCC plc
KPMG LLP was engaged by DCC plc (‘DCC’) to provide limited assurance 
over selected aspects of the DCC’s Sustainability Report for the year 
ended 31 March 2011 (‘the Report’).

This report is solely made to DCC in accordance with the terms of our 
engagement. Our work has been undertaken so that we might state 
to DCC those matters we have been engaged to state within this report 
and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do 
not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than DCC for our 
work, this report, or for the conclusions we have reached.

What was included in the scope of our assurance engagement?
Assurance scope 
Reliability of performance data 
for year ending 31 March 2011 
marked with the symbol * 
on pages 48 and 49 of the Report.  

Level of assurance  Reporting and assurance criteria
Limited 
assurance 

Relevant internal reporting guidelines
for the selected environmental and
safety performance data as set out
on pages 47 and 50 of this report

DCC self-declared Global 
Reporting Initiative (GRI) 
application level on page 50 
of the Report. 

Limited 
assurance 

G3 Sustainability Reporting
Guidelines and application level
requirements

The extent of evidence-gathering procedures 
for a limited assurance engagement is 
less than for a reasonable assurance 
engagement, and therefore a lower level of 
assurance is provided. 

integrity, objectivity, professional competence 
and due care, confidentiality and professional 
behaviour. KPMG LLP has systems and 
processes in place to monitor compliance 
with the Code and to prevent conflicts 
regarding independence.

Which assurance standard 
did we use?
We conducted our work in accordance 
with ISAE 30008, with a team of specialists 
in auditing environmental information and 
with experience in similar engagements. 
This standard requires that we comply with 
applicable ethical requirements, including 
independence requirements, and plan and 
perform the engagement to obtain limited 
assurance about whether the data is free 
from material misstatement. 

Our conclusions are based on the 
appropriate application of the criteria outlined 
in the table above.

We conducted our engagement in 
compliance with the requirements of 
the IFAC Code of Ethics for Professional 
Accountants, which requires, among other 
requirements, that the members of the 
assurance team (practitioners) as well as 
the assurance firm (assurance provider) 
be independent of the assurance client, 
including not being involved in writing the 
Report. The Code also includes detailed 
requirements for practitioners regarding 

What did we do to reach our 
conclusions?
We planned and performed our work to 
obtain all the evidence, information and 
explanations that we considered necessary 
in relation to the above scope. Our work was 
limited to the following procedures using a 
range of evidence-gathering activities which 
are further explained below:
•  Conducting interviews with management 

and other personnel at DCC, to 
understand the systems and methods in 
place during the year ended 31 March 
2011;

•  An evaluation of the design, existence and 
operation of the systems and methods 
used to collect, process and aggregate 
the selected performance data as well 
as testing the reliability of underlying data 
across a risk-based selection of nine sites, 
including at least one site from each of the 
business divisions, in the UK and Republic 
of Ireland, covering 75% of the data for 
each data set;

•  Checking the content of the Report 
to ensure consistency with the GRI 
application level requirements of C+;

•  A review of drafts of the Report to 

ensure there are no disclosures that are 
misrepresented or inconsistent with our 
findings.

What are our conclusions?
The following conclusions should be read 
in conjunction with the work performed 
and scope of our assurance engagement 
described above.

Nothing has come to our attention to 
suggest that the performance data marked 
with the symbol *, on pages 48 and 49, 
are not fairly stated, in all material respects 
in accordance with the relevant internal 
reporting guidelines for the selected 
environmental and safety performance data.

Nothing has come to our attention to 
suggest that DCC’s self-declaration of GRI 
application level C+ on page 50 is not fairly 
stated, in all material respects in accordance 
with the G3 Sustainability Reporting 
Guidelines.

Responsibilities 
The Directors of DCC plc are responsible 
for preparing the Report and the information 
and statements within it. They are 
responsible for identification of stakeholders 
and material issues, for defining objectives 
with respect to sustainability performance, 
and for establishing and maintaining 
appropriate performance management and 
internal control systems from which reported 
information is derived.

Our responsibility is to express our 
conclusions in relation to the above scope. 

Lynton Richmond for and on behalf of 
KPMG LLP 
Chartered Accountants
London
9 May 2011

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

51

 
 
 
 
Report of the Directors

The Directors of DCC plc present their 
report and the audited financial statements 
for the year ended 31 March 2011. 

Results for the Year
Revenue for the year amounted to 
€8,680.6 million (2010: €6,725.0 million). 
The profit for the year attributable to 
owners of the Parent amounted to €145.1 
million (2010: €130.8 million). Adjusted 
earnings per share amounted to 203.15 
cent (2010: 177.98 cent). Further details 
of the results for the year are set out in the 
Group Income Statement on page 72. 

Dividends 
An interim dividend of 26.11 cent per 
share, amounting to €21.74 million, 
was paid on 3 December 2010. The 
Directors recommend the payment of a 
final dividend of 48.07 cent per share, 
amounting to €40.05 million. Subject 
to shareholders’ approval at the Annual 
General Meeting on 15 July 2011, this 
dividend will be paid on 21 July 2011 to 
shareholders on the register on 20 May 
2011. The total dividend for the year 
ended 31 March 2011 amounts to 74.18 
cent per share, a total of €61.79 million. 
This represents an increase of 10% on the 
prior year’s total dividend per share. 

The profit attributable to owners of the 
Parent, which has been transferred to 
reserves, and the dividends paid during the 
year ended 31 March 2011 are shown in 
note 39 on page 120. 

Share Capital and Treasury Shares 
DCC’s authorised share capital is 
152,368,568 ordinary shares of €0.25 
each, of which 88,229,404 shares 
(excluding treasury shares) and 4,911,407 
treasury shares were in issue at 31 March 
2011. All of these shares are of the same 
class. With the exception of treasury 
shares which have no voting rights and 
no entitlement to dividends, they all carry 
equal voting rights and rank for dividends. 

The number of shares held as treasury 
shares at the beginning of the year (and the 
maximum number held during the year) was 
5,224,345 (5.92% of the issued share capital) 
with a nominal value of €1.306 million. 

A total of 1,896,000 shares (2.15% of the 
issued share capital) with a nominal value 
of €0.474 million were re-issued during 
the year at prices ranging from €10.25 
to €18.05 consequent to the exercise of 
share options under the DCC plc 1998 

Employee Share Option Scheme and the 
DCC Sharesave Scheme 2001, leaving 
a balance held as treasury shares at 31 
March 2011 of 4,911,407 shares (5.57% 
of the issued share capital) with a nominal 
value of €1.228 million. 

At the Annual General Meeting held on 
16 July 2010, the Company was granted 
authority to purchase up to 8,822,940 
of its own shares (10% of the issued 
share capital) with a nominal value of 
€2.206 million. This authority has not 
been exercised and will expire on 15 July 
2011, the date of the next Annual General 
Meeting of the Company. A special 
resolution will be proposed at the Annual 
General Meeting to renew this authority. 

At each Annual General Meeting, in 
addition to the authority to buy back 
shares referred to above, the Directors 
seek authority to exercise all the powers 
of the Company to allot shares up to 
an aggregate amount of €7,352,400, 
representing approximately one third of the 
issued share capital of the Company. 

The Directors also seek authority to allot 
shares for cash, other than strictly pro-rata 
to existing shareholdings. This proposed 
authority is limited to the allotment of 
shares in specific circumstances relating 
to rights issues and other issues up to 
approximately 5% of the issued share 
capital of the Company. 

Review of Activities and Events since 
the Year End 
The Chairman’s Statement on pages 6 to 9, 
the Chief Executive’s Review on pages 10 
to 13, the Business Reviews on pages 18 
to 37 and the Financial Review on pages 38 
to 45 contain a review of the development 
and performance of the Group’s business 
during the year, of the state of affairs of 
the business at 31 March 2011, of recent 
events and of likely future developments. 
Information in respect of events since the 
year end as required by the Companies 
(Amendment) Act, 1986 is included in these 
sections and in note 48 on page 131. 

Principal Risks and Uncertainties 
Under Irish Company law (Regulation 37 of 
the European Communities (Companies: 
Group Accounts) Regulations 1992,  
as amended), DCC is required to give 
a description of the principal risks and 
uncertainties facing the Group. These 
are addressed in the Principal Risks & 
Uncertainties report on pages 54 to 55. 

52

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

Directors 
The names of the Directors and a short 
biographical note on each Director appear 
on pages 4 to 5. 

The Board has adopted the practice that 
all Directors will submit to re-election at 
each Annual General Meeting. 

With the exception of Tommy Breen, who 
has a service agreement with a notice 
period of twelve months, none of the 
other Directors has a service contract with 
the Company or with any member of the 
Group. 

Details of the Directors’ interests in the 
share capital of the Company are set out 
in the Report on Directors’ Remuneration 
and Interests on pages 62 to 68. 

Corporate Governance 
DCC has complied, throughout the year 
ended 31 March 2011, with the provisions 
set out in Section 1 of the Combined Code 
on Corporate Governance (June 2008), 
which applied to the Company for the year 
ended 31 March 2011. 

The UK Corporate Governance Code 
(issued in May 2010) and the Irish 
Corporate Governance Annex (issued in 
December 2010) come into effect, as far 
as DCC is concerned, for the financial year 
commencing on 1 April 2011.

DCC is taking the necessary measures 
to be in compliance with these revised 
requirements for the year to 31 March 
2012.

The Corporate Governance statement on 
pages 56 to 61 sets out the Company’s 
appliance of the principles and compliance 
with the provisions of the Combined Code 
on Corporate Governance, the Group’s 
system of internal control and the adoption 
of the going concern basis in preparing the 
financial statements. 

For the purposes of the European 
Communities (Takeover Bids (Directive 
2004/25/EC)) Regulations 2006, details 
concerning the appointment and the re-
election of Directors and the amendment 
of the Company’s Articles of Association 
are set out in the Corporate Governance 
statement. 

FMR LLC on behalf of certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries*  

10,118,365 

12.14%

No. of €0.25 
Ordinary Shares  

% of Issued
Share Capital
(excluding 
treasury shares) 

7,181,656 

5,833,119 

2,579,282 

2,520,100 

8.62%

7.00%

3.10%

3.02%

Auditors 
A formal tender process is being 
undertaken with regard to the audit of the 
Group’s financial statements for the year 
to 31 March 2012. The outcome of this 
tender process is not yet known.

Michael Buckley, Tommy Breen 
Directors
9 May 2011 

Prudential plc group of companies* 

Invesco Limited * 

T. Rowe Price Associates Inc.* 

Jim Flavin 

*Notified as non-beneficial interests 

Principal Subsidiaries and 
Joint Ventures 
Details of the Company’s principal 
operating subsidiaries and joint ventures 
are set out on pages 132 to 135. 

Research and Development 
Certain Group companies are involved 
in ongoing development work aimed at 
improving the quality, competitiveness, 
technology and range of their products. 

Political Contributions 
There were no political contributions which 
require to be disclosed under the Electoral 
Act, 1997. 

Accounting Records 
The Directors are responsible for ensuring 
that proper books and accounting 
records, as outlined in Section 202 of the 
Companies Act, 1990, are kept by the 
Company. The Directors believe that they 
have complied with this requirement by 

providing adequate resources to maintain 
proper books and accounting records 
throughout the Group including the 
appointment of personnel with appropriate 
qualifications, experience and expertise. 
The books and accounting records of 
the Company are maintained at the 
Company’s registered office, DCC House, 
Brewery Road, Stillorgan, Blackrock, Co. 
Dublin, Ireland. 

Takeover Regulations 
The Company has certain banking 
facilities which may require repayment in 
the event that a change in control occurs 
with respect to the Company. In addition, 
the Company’s long term incentive plans 
contain change of control provisions 
which can allow for the acceleration of the 
exercisability of share options or awards in 
the event that a change of control occurs 
with respect to the Company. 

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

53

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal Risks and Uncertainties

The Board of DCC is responsible for the Group’s risk management systems, 
which are designed to identify, manage and mitigate potential material risks to 
the achievement of the Group’s strategic and business objectives. Details of the 
Group’s risk management systems and internal controls are set out under ‘Internal 
Control’ in the Corporate Governance statement on pages 56 to 61. 

In light of the rapid expansion of the Group in recent years, a Group wide review of 
risk management policies and structures has been initiated by the Chief Executive 
to ensure they meet the highest standards while remaining appropriate to DCC's 
business model.

Further detail on the principal risks facing the Group is set out below.

Strategic Risks and Uncertainties 

Impact

Mitigation

Economic downturn 

Climate change

Acquisitions

Demand for goods and services in the 
Group’s businesses could be impacted 
by a continuing economic downturn, 
particularly in the UK, the Group’s key 
market. 

EU and national climate change policies 
and legislation could reduce demand for 
carbon based energy sources over the 
longer term.

Growth through acquisition is an integral 
part of DCC's strategy. A failure to identify 
acquisition targets, execute acquisitions 
or to properly integrate acquisitions could 
lead to operational and financial difficulties.

The Group’s operations are diversified 
across five different business sectors. 
Whilst a continuing economic downturn 
will affect all businesses the impact will 
vary according to the sectors in which they 
operate. The Group has an ongoing focus 
on operating efficiencies and business 
development.

In the Energy division, initiatives to address 
this risk include the introduction and 
marketing of lower carbon fuels, providing 
advice to customers on energy efficiency 
and the identification of commercial 
opportunities in renewable energy. 

Only acquisitions which add value and are 
a strategic fit are considered. The Group 
conducts a stringent internal evaluation 
process and external due diligence prior 
to completing an acquisition. Group and 
subsidiary management have significant 
expertise in and experience of integrating 
acquisitions.

54

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
Operational Risks and Uncertainties

Impact 

Mitigation

Management resources 

The Group's devolved management 
structure has been fundamental to the 
Group’s success. A failure to attract, retain 
or develop high quality entrepreneurial 
management throughout the Group will 
impede its strategic objectives.

Key supplier

Environmental, health & safety incident

The loss of a key supplier could have a 
serious operational and financial impact on 
the Group’s business.

A serious environmental, health & safety 
incident, particularly in the Energy or 
Environmental divisions, could endanger 
lives and seriously disrupt operations.

Loss of major site

Product quality

The loss or serious destruction of any one 
of the Group’s key sites would present 
significant financial and operational 
difficulties for the Group.

The Group has certain subsidiaries which 
operate manufacturing or processing 
facilities. Poor product quality could have 
significant consequences for customer 
or public safety and lead to financial, 
operational and reputational difficulties for 
the Group.

The Group maintains a constant focus 
on succession planning, remuneration 
programmes, including long and short 
term incentive initiatives, and management 
development. This focus is maintained 
through a structured review process 
in which Group Human Resources 
supports the Board, the Chief Executive 
and divisional management. A graduate 
recruitment programme is in place.

The Group trades with a broad supplier 
base. Excellent commercial relationships 
exist with suppliers and there is a constant 
focus on providing a value added service.

All Group subsidiaries operate EHS
management systems appropriate to the 
nature and scale of their EHS risk profile. 
Identification of hazards, assessment of 
the risks and the introduction of control
measures form the basis of these systems. 
Furthermore, both internal and external 
monitoring, measurement and review of 
the control measures ensures a continuous 
improvement cycle is maintained.

Group subsidiaries have implemented 
business continuity plans to manage 
disruptions. An insurance cover 
programme is in place for all significant 
insurable risks and major catastrophes to 
mitigate the financial consequences.

All manufacturing and processing facilities 
operate quality management systems 
appropriate and specific to the nature of 
the products they manufacture or process.

Compliance Risks

Impact

Mitigation

Regulation

Financial Risks

DCC has operations in 13 countries. 
Failure to comply with statutory obligations 
could result in regulatory action, legal 
liability and damage to the Group’s 
reputation.

Compliance with all statutory requirements 
is managed by local management and 
is subject to formal confirmation by the 
Compliance Officer of DCC plc. A review 
of compliance policies and processes is in 
progress, as part of the Group wide review 
of risk management as noted above.

The principal financial risks facing the Group are addressed in detail under ‘Financial Risk Management’ in the Financial Review on 
pages 38 to 45.

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

55

 
 
 
Corporate Governance

This statement describes how DCC has 
applied the principles set out in Section 
1 of the Combined Code on Corporate 
Governance (‘the 2008 Combined Code’) 
published in June 2008 by the Financial 
Reporting Council (‘FRC’) in the UK. 

This statement also deals with the 
provisions introduced by the UK Corporate 
Governance Code (‘the 2010 Code’), 
issued by the FRC in May 2010 which, for 
DCC, replaced the 2008 Combined Code 
with effect from 1 April 2011. The 2008 
Combined Code and the 2010 Code are 
collectively referred to as the Combined 
Code in this statement, where a provision 
is the same in both Codes. This statement 
also deals with the disclosure requirements 
set out in the Irish Corporate Governance 
Annex (‘the Irish Annex’), issued by the 
Irish Stock Exchange in December 2010, 
which supplements the 2010 Code with 
additional corporate governance provisions 
and is also effective, for DCC, from 1 April 
2011.

Copies of the 2008 Combined Code and 
the 2010 Combined Code can be obtained 
from the Financial Reporting Council’s 
website, www.frc.org.uk. The Irish Annex 
is available on the Irish Stock Exchange’s 
website, www.ise.ie.

The Board of Directors
Role
The Board of DCC is collectively 
responsible for the long term success of 
the Group. Its role is essentially threefold 
- to provide leadership, to oversee 
management and to ensure that the 
Company provides its stakeholders with a 
balanced and understandable assessment 
of the Group’s current position and 
prospects.

Its leadership responsibilities involve 
working with management to set corporate 
values and to develop strategy, including 
deciding which risks it is prepared to 
take in pursuing its strategic objectives. 
Its oversight responsibilities involve it 
in providing constructive challenge to 
the management team in relation to 
operational aspects of the business, 
including approval of budgets, and probing 
whether risk management and internal 
controls are sound. Its responsibility 
to ensure that accurate, timely and 
understandable information is provided 
about the Group is not only focussed on 
the contents of the Annual Report, the 

Interim Report at the half year and other 
statements, for instance in the context of 
the Annual General Meeting, but also in 
deciding whether it is appropriate at any 
given time to make a statement to the 
market, as well as in communications with 
regulators or in respect of other statutory 
obligations. 

The Board has delegated responsibility 
for management of the Group to the Chief 
Executive and his executive management 
team. There is a written statement of 
authorities delegated by the Board to 
management. It is reviewed periodically. 
The main areas where decisions remain 
with the Board include approval of the 
annual strategy statement, the financial 
statements, budgets (including capital 
expenditure), acquisitions and dividends. 

In parallel, a clear division of responsibility 
exists between the Chairman, who is non-
executive, and the Chief Executive. It is set 
out in writing and has been approved by 
the Board.

The Chairman’s Statement on page 7 
includes a specific comment in relation to 
the enhancement of the risk oversight role 
of the Board, in the light of the increased 
emphasis given to this in the 2010 Code 
and in the Irish Annex.

Chairman 
The Chairman’s primary responsibility is 
to lead the Board, to ensure that it has a 
common purpose, is effective as a group 
and at individual Director level and that 
it upholds and promotes high standards 
of integrity, probity and corporate 
governance. 

The Chairman is the link between 
the Board and the Company. He is 
specifically responsible for establishing 
and maintaining an effective working 
relationship with the Chief Executive, 
for ensuring effective and appropriate 
communications with shareholders and 
for ensuring that members of the Board 
develop and maintain an understanding 
of the views of shareholders. The latter 
responsibility has also been given 
increased emphasis in the 2010 Code.

At the beginning of the financial year, 
having consulted with the other Directors 
and the Company Secretary, the Chairman 
sets a schedule of Board and Committee 
meetings to be held in the following twelve 

56

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

months, which includes the key agenda 
items for each meeting. Further details on 
these agenda items are outlined under 
“Meetings” on page 57.

Deputy Chairman and Senior 
Independent Director
The duties of the Deputy Chairman (who is 
also the Senior Independent Director) are 
set out in writing and formally approved by 
the Board. The Deputy Chairman chairs 
meetings of the Board if the Chairman is 
unavailable or is conflicted in relation to 
any agenda item. He also leads the annual 
Board review of the performance of the 
Chairman. 

The Senior Independent Director is 
available to shareholders who have 
concerns that cannot be addressed 
through the Chairman or Chief Executive.

Membership and Composition
The Board currently consists of three 
executive and seven non-executive 
Directors, following the retirement of 
Maurice Keane as a non-executive Director 
on 5 April 2011. The composition of the 
Board and the principal Board Committees 
and brief biographies of the Directors are 
set out on pages 4 to 5.

The Board, with the assistance of the 
Nomination and Governance Committee, 
keeps Board composition under review to 
ensure that it includes the necessary mix 
of relevant skills and experience required to 
perform its role. 

The Board is satisfied that its size is right. 
There is a clear majority of non-executive 
Directors and of independent non-
executive Directors. Significant new and 
relevant experience has been added in the 
period since the end of 2008. Changes in 
the composition of Committees and the 
reshaping of the Board itself should not 
pose an issue over the coming few years.

Appointment
The process for making new appointments 
to the Board, which is detailed below, has 
been in place since 2009.

 
succession planning and Directors’ 
education). Risk issues are now a regular 
substantive agenda item. 

Each year, a number of the Board 
meetings are held at subsidiary locations, 
particularly in the UK, which allows 
Directors to meet with the subsidiary 
management teams.

The non-executive Directors meet a 
number of times each year without 
executives being present. 

During the year ended 31 March 2011, 
the Board held seven meetings. Individual 
attendance at these meetings is set out in 
the table on page 59. 

Remuneration
Details of remuneration paid to the 
Directors are set out in the Report on 
Directors’ Remuneration and Interests 
on pages 62 to 68. It has been the 
Company’s practice since 2009 to put 
the Report to an advisory, non-binding 
shareholder vote at the Annual General 
Meeting. 

Share Ownership and Dealing
Details of the Directors’ interests in DCC 
shares are set out in the Report on 
Directors’ Remuneration and Interests on 
pages 62 to 68. The Board has adopted 
The Model Code, as set out in the Listing 
Rules of the Irish Stock Exchange and 
the UK Listing Authority, as the code of 
dealings applicable to dealings in DCC 
shares by Directors and relevant Group 
employees. Under the policy, Directors and 
relevant Group employees are required 
to obtain clearance from the Chairman 
or Chief Executive before dealing in DCC 
shares and are prohibited from dealing in 
the shares during prohibited periods as 
defined by the Listing Rules.

The Nomination and Governance 
Committee formally agrees a specification 
of requirements covering sectoral business 
experience, professional qualifications, if 
relevant, and other relevant factors. An 
international professional search firm is 
employed to carry out a wide ranging, 
international search. At least two members 
of the Nomination and Governance 
Committee formally interview prospective 
candidates to arrive at a short list, which 
is reviewed by the Committee. Before any 
preferred candidate is proposed to the 
Board, he/she will have been met by each 
Director individually. If any Director has 
reservations about a candidate, the matter 
is reviewed again by the Committee with 
a view to deciding if an alternative should 
be found. When an agreed candidate is 
identified, a formal proposal is put to the 
Board.

Following appointment by the Board, 
non-executive Directors are, in accordance 
with the Articles of Association, subject 
to re-election at the next Annual General 
Meeting. The Board has adopted the 
practice that all Directors will submit to re-
election at each Annual General Meeting. 

The expectation is that non-executive 
Directors would serve for a term of six 
years and may also be invited to serve an 
additional period thereafter.

The terms and conditions of appointment of 
non-executive Directors are set out in their 
letters of appointment, which are available 
for inspection at the Company’s registered 
office during normal office hours and at the 
Annual General Meeting of the Company.

Each new appointee undertakes a 
rigorous induction process which includes 
a series of meetings with Group and 
divisional management, detailed divisional 
presentations and visits to key subsidiary 
locations.

Independence
The Board has carried out its annual 
evaluation of the independence of each of 
its non-executive Directors, taking account 
of the relevant provisions of the Combined 
Code, namely, whether the Directors are 
independent in character and judgment and 
free from relationships or circumstances 
which are likely to affect, or could appear 
to affect, the Directors’ judgment. Each of 
the current non-executive Directors fulfilled 
the independence requirements of the 
Combined Code. 

Michael Buckley has been Chairman of 
the Company since May 2008. On his 
appointment as Chairman, Mr Buckley met 
the independence criteria as set out in the 
Combined Code. Thereafter, as noted in 
the Code, the test of independence is not 
appropriate in relation to the Chairman.

While Mr Buckley holds several other 
directorships outside of the DCC Group, 
the Board considers that these do not 
interfere with the discharge of his duties to 
DCC. 

Board Procedures
There is an established procedure for 
Directors to take independent professional 
advice in the furtherance of their duties, 
if they consider this necessary. All 
Directors have access to the advice and 
services of the Company Secretary who 
is responsible to the Board for ensuring 
that Board procedures are followed and 
that applicable rules and regulations are 
complied with.

The Board recognises the need for 
Directors, in particular new Directors, to 
be aware of their legal responsibilities as 
directors. The Chairman invites external 
experts to attend certain Board meetings 
to address the Board on corporate 
governance developments and relevant 
sectoral issues to ensure that Directors 
are kept up to date on the latest corporate 
governance guidance and best practice. 
In addition, the Chairman and Company 
Secretary review Directors’ training needs, 
in conjunction with individual Directors, 
and match those needs with appropriate 
external seminars. 

Meetings
The Board holds eight scheduled meetings 
each year and additional meetings are held 
on specific issues as necessary. There 
is regular contact as required between 
meetings in order to progress the Group’s 
business. At the beginning of the financial 
year, having consulted with the other 
Directors and the Company Secretary, 
the Chairman sets a schedule of Board 
and Committee meetings to be held in the 
following calendar year, which includes the 
key agenda items for each meeting. 

The key recurrent Board agenda themes 
are divided into normal business (which 
includes financial statements, budgets 
and interim management statements) and 
developmental business (which includes 
strategy, sectoral and divisional reviews, 

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

57

Corporate Governance (continued) 

Board Committees
The terms of reference of all Committees 
have recently been refreshed, in particular 
to take account of new requirements and 
areas of emphasis in the 2010 Code and 
the Irish Annex.

Audit Committee
The Audit Committee comprises three 
independent non-executive Directors, 
Bernard Somers (Chairman), Kevin 
Melia and John Moloney. The Board 
has determined that Bernard Somers 
is the Committee’s financial expert. The 
Committee met five times during the 
year ended 31 March 2011. Individual 
attendance at these meetings is set out in 
the table on page 59.

The Chief Executive, Chief Financial Officer, 
Head of Enterprise Risk Management, 
Head of Internal Audit, other Directors 
and executives and representatives of the 
external auditors may be invited to attend 
all or part of any meeting. The Committee 
also meets separately a number of times 
each year with the external auditors and 
with the Head of Internal Audit without 
executive management being present.

The role and responsibilities of the Audit 
Committee are set out in its written terms 
of reference, which are available on the 
Company’s website www.dcc.ie, and 
include:

•  monitoring the integrity of the financial 
statements of the Company and any 
formal announcements relating to the 
Company’s financial performance and 
reviewing significant financial reporting 
judgments contained in them;

•  reviewing the half-year and annual 

financial statements before submission 
to the Board;

•  considering and making 

recommendations to the Board in relation 
to the appointment, reappointment and 
removal of the external auditors;

•  approving the terms of engagement of 

the external auditors;

•  approving the remuneration of the 

external auditors, whether fees for audit 
or non-audit services, and ensuring that 
the level of fees is appropriate to enable 
an adequate audit to be conducted;
•  assessing annually the independence 
and objectivity of the external auditors 
and the effectiveness of the audit 
process, taking into consideration 
relevant professional and regulatory 
requirements and the relationship 

with the external auditors as a whole, 
including the provision of any non-audit 
services;

•  reviewing the operation and the 

effectiveness of the Group Internal Audit 
function;

•  reviewing the Group’s internal control 
and risk management systems and 
making recommendations to the Board 
thereon;

•  reporting to the Board on its annual 
assessment of the operation of the 
Group’s system of internal control 
reviewing the Company’s statements on 
internal control and risk management 
prior to endorsement by the Board; and

•  reviewing the Group’s arrangements 

for its employees to raise concerns, in 
confidence, about possible wrongdoing 
in financial reporting or other matters 
and ensuring that these arrangements 
allow proportionate and independent 
investigation of such matters and 
appropriate follow up action. 

These responsibilities of the Committee are 
discharged as detailed below.

The Committee reviews the interim and 
annual reports as well as any formal 
announcements relating to the financial 
statements before submission to the Board. 
The review focuses in particular on any 
changes in accounting policy and practices, 
major judgmental areas and compliance 
with stock exchange, legal and regulatory 
requirements. The Committee reviews the 
external audit plan in advance of the audit 
and meets with the external auditors to 
review the findings from the audit of the 
financial statements.

The Committee has a process in place 
to ensure that the independence of the 
audit is not compromised, which includes 
monitoring the nature and extent of 
services provided by the external auditors 
through its annual review of fees paid to 
the external auditors for audit and non-
audit work, seeking confirmation from the 
external auditors that in their professional 
judgment they are independent from 
the Group and providing that the Chief 
Executive will consult with the Chairman 
of the Audit Committee prior to the 
appointment to a senior financial reporting 
position, to a senior management role or 
to a Company officer role of any employee 
or former employee of the external auditor, 
where such a person was a member of 
the external audit team in the previous two 
years.

58

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

The Committee has approved a policy on 
the engagement of the external auditors to 
provide non-audit services, which provides 
that the external auditor is permitted to 
provide non-audit services that are not, 
or are not perceived to be, in conflict with 
auditor independence, providing they have 
the skill, competence and integrity to carry 
out the work and are considered to be the 
most appropriate to undertake such work 
in the best interests of the DCC Group. The 
policy also provides that the aggregate of 
non-audit fees paid to the external auditor 
must not exceed 50% of annual audit fees. 

Details of the amounts paid to the external 
auditors during the year for audit and other 
services are set out in note 6 on page 95.

The Committee makes recommendations 
to the Board in relation to the appointment 
of the external auditor. The Committee 
is currently engaged in a formal tender 
process for the external audit of the 
Group’s financial statements with effect 
from the year ending 31 March 2012. 

The Committee receives regular reports 
from the Group Internal Audit and 
Group Environmental, Health and Safety 
functions, which include summaries of the 
key findings of each audit in the period 
and the planned work programme. On an 
ongoing basis the Committee ensures that 
these functions are adequately resourced 
and have appropriate standing within 
the Group. The Committee ensures co-
ordination between Group Internal Audit 
and the external auditors.

The Committee also receives regular 
reports from the Risk Committee and the 
Enterprise Risk Management function.

The Committee conducts, on behalf of 
the Board, an annual assessment of the 
operation of the Group’s system of internal 
control based on a detailed review carried 
out by Group Internal Audit. The results 
of this assessment are reviewed by the 
Committee and are reported to the Board.

Nomination and Governance 
Committee 
At 31 March 2011, the Nomination and 
Governance Committee comprised 
Michael Buckley (Chairman) and two 
independent non-executive Directors, 
David Byrne and Maurice Keane. The 
Committee met four times during the 
year ended 31 March 2011. Individual 
attendance at these meetings is set 
out in the table below. On 5 April 2011, 
Róisín Brennan and Leslie Van De Walle 
joined the Committee on Maurice Keane’s 
retirement.

The role and responsibilities of the 
Nomination and Governance Committee 
are set out in its updated written terms 
of reference, which are available on the 
Company’s website www.dcc.ie. The 
principal responsibilities of the Committee 
in relation to the composition of the Board 
are to keep Board renewal, structure, 
size and composition under constant 
review, including the skills, knowledge and 
experience required, taking account of the 
Group’s businesses and strategic direction. 
The Committee also actively manages 
the open and transparent process for 
appointment of new Directors as outlined 
under Appointment above. The principal 
duties in relation to Corporate Governance 
are to monitor the Company’s compliance 

with corporate governance best practice 
and with applicable legal, regulatory and 
listing requirements.

The Committee has particular regard to 
the leadership needs of the organisation 
and gives full consideration to succession 
planning for Directors and senior 
management, in particular the Chairman 
and Chief Executive, taking into account 
the challenges and opportunities facing the 
Group and the skills and expertise required. 

Remuneration Committee 
At 31 March 2011, the Remuneration 
Committee comprised four independent 
non-executive Directors, Maurice Keane 
(Chairman), Róisín Brennan, David 
Byrne and Leslie Van de Walle, and the 
Chairman of the Board, Michael Buckley. 
The Committee met four times during the 
year ended 31 March 2011. Individual 
attendance at these meetings is set out 
in the table below. On 5 April 2011, Leslie 
Van De Walle was appointed Chairman 
of the Committee on Maurice Keane’s 
retirement.

The role and responsibilities of the 
Remuneration Committee are set out 
in its written terms of reference, which 
are available on the Company’s website 
www.dcc.ie. The principal responsibilities 

of the Committee are determining 
the policy for the remuneration of the 
Chairman, the Chief Executive, the other 
executive Directors and certain senior 
Group management and determining 
their remuneration packages, including 
salary, bonuses, pension rights and 
compensation payments, the oversight 
of remuneration structures for other 
Group and subsidiary senior management 
and the granting of awards under the 
Company’s long term incentive schemes. 

The Committee is responsible for ensuring 
that risk is properly considered in setting 
remuneration policy and in determining 
remuneration packages. 

The Remuneration Committee consults 
with the Chief Executive on remuneration 
for the other executive Directors and for 
senior Group management. 

The Remuneration Committee maintains 
regular access to independent professional 
advice to keep up to date with market best 
practice and remuneration trends.

Details of the activities of the Remuneration 
Committee during the year are set out in 
the Report on Directors’ Remuneration 
and Interests on pages 62 to 68. 

Attendance at Board and Committee meetings during the year ended 31 March 2011:

Director 

Board 

Audit 
Committee 

Nomination and 
Governance 
Committee 

Remuneration
Committee

Michael Buckley 
Tommy Breen 
Róisín Brennan 
David Byrne 
Maurice Keane 
Kevin Melia 
John Moloney 
Donal Murphy 
Fergal O’Dwyer 
Bernard Somers 
Leslie Van De Walle1 

A 

7 
7 
7 
7 
7 
7 
7 
7 
7 
7 
3 

B 

7 
7 
7 
7 
7 
7 
6 
6 
7 
7 
3 

A 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
5 
5 
- 
- 
5 
- 

B 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
5 
5 
- 
- 
5 
- 

A 

4 
- 
- 
4 
4 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

B 

4 
- 
- 
4 
4 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

A 

4 
- 
4 
4 
4 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
2 

B

4
-
4
4
4
-
-
-
-
-
2

Column A indicates the number of meetings held during the period the Director was a member of the Board and/or Committee.
Column B indicates the number of meetings attended during the period the Director was a member of the Board and/or Committee.

Note 1 Appointed November 2010

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

59

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate Governance (continued) 

Performance Evaluation 
The Board undertakes a formal annual 
evaluation of its own performance, that 
of each of its principal committees, the 
Audit, Nomination and Governance and 
Remuneration committees, and that of 
individual Directors. 

As part of the 2010/2011 Board 
evaluation of its own performance, 
a questionnaire was circulated to all 
Directors by external advisors, Towers 
Watson. The questionnaire was designed 
to obtain Directors’ comments regarding 
the performance of the Board including 
any recommendations for improvement. 
Completed questionnaires were 
returned directly to Towers Watson who 
summarised the results of the exercise 
for the Senior Independent Director. He 
presented it to the Board at the April 2011 
Board meeting. 

The Chairman, on behalf of the Board, 
conducts evaluations of performance 
individually with each of the non-executive 
and the executive Directors on an annual 
basis. This process was conducted 
during March/April 2011 in respect of the 
year under review and the results were 
presented by the Chairman to the Board at 
its April 2011 meeting.

The non-executive Directors, led by the 
Senior Independent Director, meet annually 
without the Chairman present to evaluate 
his performance, having taken into account 
the views of the executive Directors. The 
non-executive Directors also evaluate the 
performance of each executive Director. 
These evaluations were conducted at the 
April 2011 Board meeting in respect of the 
year under review.

These evaluations are designed to 
determine whether each Director 
continues to contribute effectively and to 
demonstrate commitment to the role. 

The Audit, Nomination and Governance 
and Remuneration committees each 
carry out annual reviews of their own 
performance and terms of reference to 
ensure they are operating at maximum 
effectiveness and recommend any 
changes they consider necessary to the 
Board for approval. 

The Chairman and the Senior Independent 
Director meet to review in detail all issues 
raised and, finally, the Chairman reports to 

the Board on any suggestions for changes 
in Board practice. This process was 
concluded in respect of the year under 
review at the May 2011 Board meeting.

The entire performance evaluation process 
will be externally facilitated in 2012, in 
accordance with the requirements of the 
2010 Code.

Relations with Shareholders 
DCC recognises the importance of 
communications with shareholders. 
Presentations are made to both existing 
and prospective institutional shareholders, 
principally after the release of the interim 
and annual results. DCC issues an Interim 
Management Statement twice yearly in 
February and July. Major acquisitions 
are also notified to the market and the 
Company’s website www.dcc.ie provides 
the full text of all press releases. The 
website also contains annual and interim 
reports and incorporates audio and slide 
show investor presentations. 

The Board is kept informed of the views 
of shareholders through the executive 
Directors’ attendance at investor 
presentations and results presentations. 
Furthermore, relevant feedback from such 
meetings, investor relations reports and 
brokers notes are provided to the entire 
Board on a regular basis. The Chairman 
and the Senior Independent Director are 
available to communicate directly with 
shareholders on any specific issue on 
which discussion is required. If major 
shareholders request meetings with 
new non-executive Directors, this is also 
facilitated. If any of the non-executive 
Directors wishes to attend meetings with 
major shareholders, arrangements are 
made accordingly. The Chairman had a 
series of meetings with major investors 
during January/February 2011.

General Meetings 
The Company’s Annual General Meeting 
(‘AGM’) affords shareholders the opportunity 
to question the Chairman and the Board. 
The chairmen of the Audit, Nomination and 
Governance and Remuneration Committees 
are also available to answer questions at 
the AGM. The Chief Executive presents 
at the AGM on the Group’s business and 
its performance during the prior year and 
answers questions from shareholders. 
Shareholders can meet with the Chairman 
or the Senior Independent Director on 
request. 

60

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

Notice of the AGM, the Form of Proxy and 
the Annual Report are sent to shareholders 
at least 20 working days before the 
Meeting. At the Meeting, resolutions are 
voted on by a show of hands of those 
shareholders attending, in person or by 
proxy. After each resolution has been dealt 
with, details are given of the level of proxy 
votes cast on each resolution and the 
numbers for, against and withheld. 

If validly requested, resolutions can be 
voted by way of a poll. In a poll, the votes 
of shareholders present and voting at the 
Meeting are added to the proxy votes 
received in advance of the Meeting and 
the total number of votes for, against and 
withheld for each resolution are announced. 

All other general meetings are called 
Extraordinary General Meetings (‘EGM’). 
An EGM called for the passing of a special 
resolution must be called by at least 
twenty one clear days’ notice. Provided 
shareholders have passed a special 
resolution to that effect at the immediately 
preceding AGM and the Company 
continues to allow shareholders to vote 
by electronic means, an EGM to consider 
an ordinary resolution may be called at 
fourteen clear days’ notice. 

A quorum for an AGM or an EGM of 
the Company is constituted by three 
shareholders, present in person, by proxy 
or by a duly authorised representative 
in the case of a corporate member. 
The passing of resolutions at a general 
meeting, other than special resolutions, 
requires a simple majority. To be passed, a 
special resolution requires a majority of at 
least 75% of the votes cast. 

Shareholders have the right to attend, 
speak, ask questions and vote at general 
meetings. In accordance with Irish 
company law, the Company specifies 
record dates for general meetings, 
by which date shareholders must be 
registered in the Register of Members 
of the Company to be entitled to attend. 
Record dates are specified in the notes to 
the Notice convening the meeting. 

Shareholders may exercise their right 
to vote by appointing a proxy/proxies, 
by electronic means or in writing, to 
vote some or all of their shares. The 
requirements for the receipt of valid proxy 
forms are set out in the notes to the Notice 
convening the meeting. 

A shareholder or a group of shareholders, 
holding at least 5% of the issued share 
capital, has the right to requisition a 
general meeting. A shareholder or a group 
of shareholders, holding at least 3% of the 
issued share capital of the Company, has 
the right to put an item on the agenda of 
an AGM or to table a draft resolution for an 
item on the agenda of a general meeting. 

The 2011 AGM will be held at 11 a.m. on 
15 July 2011 at The Four Seasons Hotel, 
Simmonscourt Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 
4, Ireland. 

Internal Control 
The Board is responsible for the Group’s 
system of internal control and has 
delegated responsibility for the ongoing 
monitoring of its effectiveness to the Audit 
Committee. Details of the work undertaken 
by the Audit Committee in this regard 
are set out at page 58. Such a system is 
designed to manage rather than eliminate 
the risk of failure to achieve business 
objectives and can provide only reasonable 
and not absolute assurance against 
material misstatement or loss. 

In accordance with the revised FRC 
guidance for directors on internal control 
published in October 2005, ‘Internal 
Control: Revised Guidance for Directors on 
the Combined Code’, the Board confirms 
that there is an ongoing process for 
identifying, evaluating and managing any 
significant risks faced by the Group, that it 
has been in place for the year under review 
and up to the date of approval of the 
financial statements and that this process 
is regularly reviewed by the Board. The 
key risk management and internal control 
procedures, which are supported by 
detailed controls and processes, include: 

•  skilled and experienced Group and 

divisional management; 

•  an organisation structure with 

clearly defined lines of authority and 
accountability; 

•  a comprehensive system of financial 

reporting involving budgeting, monthly 
reporting and variance analysis; 

•  the operation of approved risk 

management policies (including treasury 
and IT); 

•  a Risk Committee, comprising senior 

Group management, whose main role is 
to keep under review and report to the 
Audit Committee on the principal risks 
facing the Group, the controls in place to 
manage those risks and the monitoring 
procedures; 

•  independent Enterprise Risk 

Management, Group Internal Audit and 
Group Environmental, Health and Safety 
functions; and 

• a formally constituted Audit Committee. 

The consolidated financial statements 
are prepared subject to the oversight 
and control of the Group Chief Financial 
Officer, ensuring correct data is 
captured from Group locations and all 
required information for disclosure in 
the consolidated financial statements 
is provided. A control framework has 
been put in place around the recording 
of appropriate eliminations and other 
adjustments. The consolidated financial 
statements are reviewed by the Audit 
Committee and approved by the Board of 
Directors.

The Board has reviewed the effectiveness 
of the Group’s system of internal control, 
up to and including the date of the 
financial statements, and confirms that 
necessary actions have been or are 
being taken to remedy any significant 
failings or weaknesses identified from that 
review. This review took account of the 
principal business risks facing the Group, 
the controls in place to manage those 
risks (including financial, operational and 
compliance controls and risk management) 
and the procedures in place to monitor 
them. 

As noted in the Chairman's Statement,  
the Chief Executive has initiated a Group 
wide review of risk management policies 
and structures to ensure they meet the 
highest standards while being appropriate 
to DCC's business model. The results of 
this review will be reported to the Board.

Memorandum and Articles of 
Association 
The Company’s Memorandum and Articles 
of Association sets out the objects and 
powers of the Company. The Articles of 
Association detail the rights attaching 
to shares, the method by which the 
Company’s shares can be purchased 
or re-issued, the provisions which apply 
to the holding of and voting at general 
meetings and the rules relating to the 
Directors, including their appointment, 
retirement, re-election, duties and powers. 

The Company’s Articles of Association 
may be amended by a special resolution 
passed by the shareholders at an annual 
or extraordinary general meeting of the 
Company. 

A copy of the Memorandum and Articles 
of Association can be obtained from the 
Company’s website www.dcc.ie. 

Report of the Directors 
For the purposes of the European 
Communities (Directive 2006/46/EC) 
Regulations 2009, details of substantial 
shareholdings in the Company and 
details in relation to the purchase of the 
Company’s own shares are set out in the 
Report of the Directors on pages 52 to 53. 

Going Concern 
After making enquiries, the Directors have 
formed a judgment, at the time of approving 
the financial statements, that there is a 
reasonable expectation that the Company 
and the Group as a whole have adequate 
resources to continue in operational 
existence for the foreseeable future. For this 
reason, they continue to adopt the going 
concern basis in preparing the financial 
statements. The Directors’ responsibility 
for preparing the financial statements is 
explained on page 69 and the reporting 
responsibilities of the auditors are set out in 
their report on page 70. 

Compliance Statement 
DCC has complied, throughout the year 
ended 31 March 2011, with the provisions 
set out in Section 1 of the 2008 Combined 
Code. 

Michael Buckley, Tommy Breen 
Directors
9 May 2011 

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

61

Report on Directors’ Remuneration and Interests

Composition and Role of the 
Remuneration Committee
The Remuneration Committee currently 
comprises three independent non-executive 
Directors, Leslie Van de Walle (Chairman), 
Róisín Brennan and David Byrne, and the 
Chairman of the Board, Michael Buckley. 
Mr. Van de Walle joined the Committee on 8 
November 2010 and became Chairman on 
5 April 2011, following Mr. Maurice Keane's 
retirement from the Committee.

The role and responsibilities of the 
Remuneration Committee are set out in 
its written terms of reference, which are 
available on request and on the Company’s 
website www.dcc.ie. The principal 
responsibilities of the Committee are: 
•  determining the policy for the 

remuneration of the Chairman, the Chief 
Executive, the other executive Directors 
and certain senior Group management; 

•  determining their remuneration 

packages, including salary, bonuses, 
pension rights and compensation 
payments;

•  the oversight of remuneration structures 
for other Group and subsidiary senior 
management; and 

•  the granting of awards under the 

Company’s long term incentive schemes. 

Group Remuneration Policy 
DCC’s remuneration policy is designed 
and managed to support a high 
performance and entrepreneurial 
culture, taking into account relevant 
benchmarking. The Board seeks to align 
the interests of executive Directors and 
other senior Group executives with those 
of shareholders, within the framework 
set out in the Combined Code on 
Corporate Governance. Central to this 
policy is the Group’s belief in long-term 
performance based incentivisation and the 
encouragement of share ownership. 

The Remuneration Committee seeks to 
ensure: 
•  that the Group will attract, motivate and 
retain individuals of the highest calibre; 
•  that executives are rewarded in a fair and 
balanced way for their individual and team 
contribution to the Group’s performance; 
•  that they receive a level of remuneration 

that is appropriate to their scale of 
responsibility and individual performance;
•  that the overall approach to remuneration 

has regard to the sectors and 
geographies within which the Group 
operates and the markets from which it 
draws its executives; and

•  that risk is properly considered in setting 
remuneration policy and in determining 
remuneration packages.

DCC’s strategy of fostering 
entrepreneurship requires well designed 
incentive plans that reward the creation 
of shareholder value through organic 
and acquisitive growth while maintaining 
high returns on capital employed, strong 
cash generation and a focus on good risk 
management. The typical elements of 
the remuneration package for executive 
Directors and other senior Group 
executives are base pay, pension and 
other benefits, annual performance related 
bonuses and participation in long term 
performance plans which promote the 
creation of sustainable shareholder value. 

The Remuneration Committee supports 
the objectives of the EU Commission’s 
recommendations on “fostering an 
appropriate regime for the remuneration 
of directors of listed companies” 
which were issued in December 2004 
and supplemented by additional 
recommendations in April 2009. This is 
reflected in the disclosures in this Report in 
relation to the Group’s remuneration policy, 
the remuneration of individual Directors 
and share-based remuneration. 

While the Remuneration Committee’s 
specific oversight of individual executive 
remuneration packages extends only to 
the Chief Executive, the other executive 
Directors and a number of senior Group 
executives, it aims to create a broad policy 
framework to be applied by management 
to senior executives throughout the Group. 

62

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

Since 2009, the Report on Directors’ 
Remuneration and Interests is put to a 
shareholder vote at the Annual General 
Meeting. There is no legal obligation to 
put such a resolution to shareholders, 
so it is an ‘advisory’ resolution and is 
not binding. However, DCC believes that 
such a resolution is good practice and 
is an appropriate acknowledgement of a 
shareholder’s right to have a ‘say on pay’. 

Review of Remuneration Policy and 
Structures 
Following a comprehensive review in the 
prior year of Group executive remuneration 
policy and remuneration structures, the 
Remuneration Committee established 
a framework for remuneration policy in 
respect of the senior executive cadre in the 
DCC Group. 
This framework was set out in last year’s 
Annual Report, as follows: 
(i)   

 That the key reference group for overall 
remuneration purposes would be the 
market capitalisation comparison group. 
The other comparator groups would be 
used as secondary reference points; 
 That the basic policy objective would be 
to have top quartile overall remuneration 
for top quartile performance; 

(ii)  

(iii)    That the aim would be to have basic 

pay rates and the short term element of 
incentive payments at the median of the 
market capitalisation comparator group; 
(iv)    That the aim would be to have long term 
incentive rewards at the top quartile of 
the market capitalisation comparator 
group for top quartile performance; 

(v)    That the overall policy aim would 
be, over time, to have the longer 
term elements of total remuneration 
constituting at least half of the total for 
maximum performance and somewhat 
less than half for on target performance; 

(vi)    That insofar as adjustments to existing 

policies are needed to achieve these 
aims, the adjustments would be carried 
out over the medium term; 

(vii)    That any increase in the maximum 

annual bonus potential would be 
accompanied by: 
•  appropriately stretched targets for 

qualifying for the increased element of 
the maximum potential bonus; 

•  the introduction of a deferral 

mechanism for part of the bonus 
payments awarded, with the deferral 
element being represented by 
shares held in trust (thus to increase 
the longer term element of total 
remuneration and to align with Group 
share ownership policy); 

 
 
 
•  a wider range of financial targets for 

qualification for various levels of bonus 
(threshold, target and maximum); and 

•  a general provision for subsequent 

The Remuneration Committee may modify 
the composition of these key reference 
points from time to time with a view to 
ensuring their relevance.

clawback of bonus, in certain 
circumstances. 

(viii)   That a formal shareholding policy would 

be introduced for the senior executive 
cadre. Because share ownership has 
been encouraged for many years in 
the Group, current executive Directors’ 
shareholdings are substantial and 
exceed the benchmarks used in 
comparable companies, but such a 
policy would be built with a view to a 
future cadre of senior managers. 

Those elements of the policy framework 
relating to base salary have been 
implemented. No changes to maximum 
annual bonus potential or the longer term 
elements of total remuneration have been 
implemented at this time but they will be 
kept under review by the Remuneration 
Committee. A formal bonus clawback 
policy and share ownership guidelines 
have been introduced and are set out later 
in this Report. 

Benchmarking
The Remuneration Committee uses annual 
benchmarking to ensure that remuneration 
structures continue to support the key 
remuneration policy objectives and to 
inform them regarding current trends and 
on actions as required from time to time. 

The primary comparator group for 
benchmarking is a group of 60 FTSE 
companies, 30 of whom have market 
capitalisations just below DCC’s and 30 
of whom have market capitalisations just 
above DCC’s (‘the market capitalisation 
comparator group’). 

The Remuneration Committee also 
considers it useful to use a set of other 
comparators as secondary references 
to ensure rigorous and comprehensive 
benchmarking, being:
• the FTSE 250;
•  the peer group for the DCC plc Long 

Term Incentive Plan 2009; and
•  a group of Irish listed industrial 

companies which can be taken to be 
broadly comparable to DCC, though in 
this group there are limitations on the 
amount of relevant information available, 
for instance on the definition of “target” 
and “maximum” bonus levels.

Executive Directors’ Remuneration 
The current remuneration package for 
executive Directors consists of fixed 
remuneration (base salary), pension and 
other benefits and performance related 
remuneration (annual bonus and long term 
incentives). 

Fixed Remuneration 
Base salaries 
With effect from 1 April 2012, the salaries 
of executive Directors will be reviewed 
annually on 1 April, rather than on 1 
January as was the practice, in order to 
align them with the Group’s financial year.

The reviews take account of personal 
performance, Company performance and 
competitive market practice.

No fees are payable to executive Directors. 

Pension Benefits 
A small number of senior Group 
executives, including the executive 
Directors, are participants in a defined 
benefit pension scheme which aims to 
provide, on the basis of actuarial advice, 
a pension of two thirds of pensionable 
salary at normal retirement date. 
Pensionable salary is calculated as 105% 
of basic salary and does not include any 
performance related bonuses or benefits. 

Other senior Group executives participate 
in a defined contribution pension scheme.

Performance Related Remuneration 
Annual bonuses 
Annual bonuses are payable to the 
executive Directors and to other senior 
Group executives in respect of the financial 
year to 31 March, subject, inter alia, to the 
achievement of performance targets. 

The maximum bonus potential, as a 
percentage of basic salary, for each 
executive Director and senior Group 
executive is reviewed and set annually and 
ranged between 40% and 100% of basic 
salary for the year ended 31 March 2011.

The performance targets for each 
executive Director and senior Group 
executive, which are set annually, are 
based on growth in Group earnings and 
in divisional operating profit, measured on 
a constant currency basis, against a pre-
determined range, and overall contribution 
and personal performance. The weighting 
of the performance targets varies 
according to the role of each individual, 
within the range of 60% to 80% of bonus 
potential for profit performance and 20% 
to 40% of bonus potential for personal 
contribution. 

The Remuneration Committee has 
implemented general provisions for 
subsequent clawback of bonus in certain 
circumstances, effective from 1 April 2011, 
which will apply to all annual performance 
bonuses paid to executive Directors and 
senior Group executives.

Long term incentives 
Executive Directors and other senior Group 
executives are eligible to participate in the 
Company’s long term incentive schemes. 

DCC plc Long Term Incentive Plan 2009
The DCC plc Long Term Incentive Plan 
2009 (‘the Plan’) was approved by 
shareholders at the 2009 Annual General 
Meeting, following the termination of the 
DCC plc 1998 Employee Share Option 
Scheme in 2008. The Plan reflects the 
Group’s culture of long term performance 
based incentivisation and seeks to align 
the interests of executives with those of 
the Group’s shareholders. 

The Plan provides for the Remuneration 
Committee to grant nominal cost options 
to acquire ordinary shares in the Company 
or to make contingent share awards 
only to those employees, including 
executive Directors, of the Company 
and its subsidiaries whose contribution 
can have a direct and significant impact 
on Group value or whom the Company 
wishes to retain in anticipation of direct 
and significant contribution to Group value 
in the future and to a small number of key 
support staff. 

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

63

 
 
Report on Directors’ Remuneration and Interests (continued)

The percentage of share capital which can 
be issued under the Plan, the phasing of 
the grant of awards and the limit on the 
value of awards which can be granted 
to any individual comply with guidelines 
published by the institutional investment 
associations. The Plan provides for the 
making of awards, up to a maximum 
of 10% of the Company’s issued share 
capital over a 10 year period, taking 
account of any other share award or share 
option plan operated by the Company. 

The market value of the shares which 
are the subject of any contingent award 
granted in any period of 12 months may 
not, at the date of the grant of award, in 
the case of the Chief Executive exceed 
120% of annual basic salary and in the 
case of other participants exceed a 
lower percentage, as determined by the 
Committee. 

Awards will normally vest no earlier than 
the third anniversary of the award date and 
in the case of options cannot be exercised 
later than the seventh anniversary of the 
award date. 

An award will not vest (and in the case 
of an award in the form of an option, the 
option will not be exercisable) unless the 
Committee is satisfied that the Company’s 
underlying financial performance has 
shown a sustained improvement in 
the period since the award date. If this 
condition is met, the extent of vesting for 
awards granted to participants will be 
determined by the performance conditions 
set out below. 

(a)   TSR performance condition: 
Up to 60% of the shares subject to 
the award will vest depending on the 
Company’s total shareholder return 
(‘TSR’) over a three-year performance 
period, starting on 1 April in the year in 
which the award is granted, compared 
with the TSR of a designated peer group. 
The peer group in respect of each award 
comprises the FTSE 250 on the first day 
of the performance period excluding 
financial services type companies and a 
small number of other companies that 
are not comparable to the Company, 
as determined by the Remuneration 
Committee. 

 The extent of vesting will be determined 
according to the following table:

Company’s  
TSR ranking 
Below median 
Median  
Between median  
and 75th percentile 
75th percentile or above 

Proportion of the 
total award vesting
0%
25%

25%-60% pro rata
60%

 TSR shall mean the return that a company 
has provided for its ordinary shareholders, 
reflecting share price movements and 
assuming reinvestment of dividends.

 The Remuneration Committee may from 
time to time and at their discretion modify 
the composition of the peer group with 
the agreement of the Irish Association 
of Investment Managers if by reason of 
any change in the business of any such 
company, or if any such company ceases 
to be publicly listed, they consider that it 
would no longer properly form part of such 
comparison group for the business of the 
Company or that any one or more other or 
additional companies would properly form 
part of such comparison group.

(b)   EPS performance condition: 
Up to 40% of the shares subject to the 
award will vest depending on the growth 
in the Company’s consolidated adjusted 
earnings per share (‘EPS’) over a three-
year performance period starting on 1 April 
in the year in which the award is granted 
compared with the change in the Irish 
Consumer Price Index (‘CPI’), determined 
according to the table below. EPS growth 
year on year will be calculated on a 
constant currency basis, as set out in the 
Company’s annual report. 

Company’s annualised 
EPS growth in excess of  
annualised CPI change 
Below 3 percentage points 
3 percentage points 
Between 3 and 7  
percentage points 
7 percentage points or more 

Proportion of the 
total award vesting
0%
15%

15%-40% pro rata
40%

Vesting under the EPS performance 
condition is also contingent on: 
(i)    the Company’s average share price 
over the 30 day period following 
the annual or half yearly results 
announcement date prior to vesting 
being higher than the average share 
price over the 30 day period following 
the annual or half yearly results 
announcement date prior to the award 
date (subject to any adjustment in 
accordance with Rule 11 of the Plan 
to reflect a variation in the Company’s 
share capital); and 

(ii)    the Company’s cumulative annualised 

EPS growth over the three year 
performance period being positive. 

No re-testing of the performance 
conditions is permitted. 

 The total number of awards granted under 
the Plan, in the form of nominal cost 
options, currently amounts to 0.52% of 
issued share capital. 

64

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 The Deputy Chairman and Senior 
Independent Director, David Byrne, 
received a total fee of €103,000, again 
inclusive of the basic fee and committee 
fees. 

Non-executives Directors do not 
participate in the Company’s long term 
incentive schemes and do not receive 
any pension benefits from the Company. 
An office is provided for the use of the 
Chairman. 

Directors’ Service Agreements 
 With the exception of Tommy Breen, Chief 
Executive, who has a service agreement 
with a notice period of twelve months, 
none of the other Directors has a service 
contract with the Company or with any 
member of the Group. 

DCC plc 1998 Employee Share Option 
Scheme 
 Executive Directors and other senior 
executives participated in the DCC plc 
1998 Employee Share Option Scheme. 
The ten year period during which share 
options could be granted under this 
Scheme expired in June 2008. 

 Over the life of the Scheme, the total 
number of basic and second tier options 
granted, net of options lapsed, amounted 
to 7.1% of issued share capital, of which 
2.15% is currently outstanding. 

 Basic tier options may not normally be 
exercised earlier than three years from 
the date of grant and second tier options 
not earlier than five years from the date of 
grant. Basic tier options may normally be 
exercised only if there has been growth 
in the adjusted earnings per share of 
the Company equivalent to the increase 
in the Consumer Price Index plus 2%, 
compound, per annum over a period of 
at least three years following the date of 
grant. 

 Second tier options may normally be 
exercised only if the growth in the adjusted 
earnings per share over a period of at 
least five years is such as would place 
the Company in the top quartile of 
companies on the ISEQ index in terms of 
comparison of growth in adjusted earnings 
per share and if there has been growth 
in the adjusted earnings per share of 
the Company equivalent to the increase 
in the Consumer Price Index plus 10%, 
compound, per annum in that period. 

Share Ownership Guidelines
 DCC’s remuneration policy has at its core 
a recognition that the spirit of ownership 
and entrepreneurship is essential to the 
creation of long term high performance 
and that share ownership is important in 
aligning the interests of executive Directors 
and other senior Group executives with 
those of shareholders.

 In support of this the Remuneration 
Committee has introduced a set of share 
ownership guidelines, effective from 1 April 
2011, under which the Chief Executive, 
other executive Directors and other senior 
Group executives are encouraged to build, 
over a five year period, a shareholding in 
the Company with a valuation relative to 
base salary as follows: 

Chief Executive  
3 times annual base salary

Other executive Directors 
2 times annual base salary

Senior Group executives 
1 times annual base salary

Non-Executive Directors’ 
Remuneration 
 The remuneration of the Chairman 
is determined by the Remuneration 
Committee. The Chairman absents himself 
from the Committee meeting while this 
matter is being considered. 

The remuneration of the other non-
executive Directors is determined by the 
Chairman and the Chief Executive.

The fees paid to non-executive Directors 
reflect their experience and ability and the 
time demands of their Board and Board 
committee duties. The fees are reviewed 
annually, taking account of any changes in 
responsibilities and external advice on the 
level of fees in comparable companies.

The basic non-executive Director fee 
amounts to €60,000 per annum and 
additional fees are paid to members and 
the Chairmen of Board committees. There 
have been no increases in these fees for 
the years commencing on 1 April 2009, 
1 April 2010 and 1 April 2011.

 The Chairman, Michael Buckley, received a 
total fee of €190,000 for the year ended 31 
March 2011, inclusive of the basic fee and 
committee fees. 

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

65

 
Report on Directors’ Remuneration and Interests (continued)

 The information set out at page 66 to 68 forms an integral part of the audited financial statements and is covered by the Report of the 
Independent Auditors. 

Executive and Non-Executive Directors’ Remuneration Details 
 The table below sets out the details of the remuneration payable in respect of Directors who held office for any part of the financial year. 

Salary and Fees1 
2010 
2011 
€’000 
€’000 

Bonus 

2011 
€’000 

2010 
€’000 

Benefits2 

2011 
€’000 

2010 
€’000 

Pension
Contribution3 

Total

2011 
€’000 

2010 
€’000 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

Executive Directors 
Tommy Breen 
Donal Murphy 
Fergal O’Dwyer 

700 
374 
374 

700 
316 
365 

434 
126 
227 

700 
274 
274 

Total for executive Directors 

1,448 

1,381 

787 

1,248 

Non-executive Directors 
Michael Buckley 
Róisín Brennan  
David Byrne 
Maurice Keane4  
Kevin Melia 
John Moloney 
Bernard Somers 
Leslie Van de Walle5 

190 
65 
103 
73 
68 
68 
80 
26 

225 
65 
103 
73 
68 
68 
80 
- 

Total for non-executive Directors 

 673 

682 

Ex gratia pension to dependant of retired Director 

Total    

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

- 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

- 

30 
22 
22 

74 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

- 

26 
22 
22 

70 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

- 

246 
129 
130 

248 
108 
131 

1,410 
651 
753 

1,674
720
792

505 

487 

2,814 

3,186

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

- 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

- 

190 
65 
103 
73 
68 
68 
80 
26 

225
65
103
73
68
68
80
-

 673 

682

10 

10

3,497 

3,878

Notes
1.  Fees are payable only to non-executive Directors and include Board Committee fees.
2.  In the case of the executive Directors, benefits relate principally to the use of a company car.
3.  Executive Director pension contributions in the year ended 31 March 2011 were made to a defined benefit scheme.
4.  Maurice Keane resigned as a Director on 5 April 2011. 
5.  Leslie Van de Walle was appointed as a Director on 8 November 2010.

Executive Directors’ Defined Benefit Pensions
The table below sets out the increase in the accrued pension benefits to which executive Directors have become entitled during the year 
ended 31 March 2011 and the transfer value of the increase in accrued benefit, under the Company’s defined benefit pension scheme:

Executive Directors
Tommy Breen  
Donal Murphy 
Fergal O’Dwyer 

Total 

Increase in accrued 
pension benefit (excl inflation) 
during the year1 
€’000 

Transfer value
equivalent to the 
increase in accrued 
pension benefit2 
€’000 

Total accrued
pension benefit
at year end3
€’000

4 
5 
7 

 16 

54 
43 
233 

330 

352
97
164

613

Notes
1.  Increases are after adjustment for inflation over the year, if applicable, and reflect additional pensionable service and salary.
2. 

 The transfer value equivalent to the increase in accrued pension benefit has been calculated on the basis of actuarial advice in 
accordance with Actuarial Guidance Note GN11. The transfer values do not represent sums paid to or due to the Directors named, but 
are the amounts that would transfer to another pension scheme in respect of the increase in accrued pension benefit during the year.
3.  Figures represent the total accrued pension payable from normal retirement date, based on pensionable service at 31 March 2011.

66

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Executive Directors’ and Company Secretary’s Long Term Incentives
DCC plc Long Term Incentive Plan 2009 
Details of the executive Directors’ and the Company Secretary’s awards, in the form of nominal cost options, under the DCC plc Long 
Term Incentive Plan 2009 are set out in the table below:

Executive Directors 
Tommy Breen 

Donal Murphy 

Fergal O’Dwyer 

Company Secretary 
Gerard Whyte 

At 31 
March 2010 

Number of options 
Granted 
in year 

At 31 
March 2011 

Performance period 

Earliest exercise date  Market price
on award
€

53,743 

53,743 

21,113 

21,113 

23,353 

23,353 

11,756 

11,756 

39,529 
39,529 

18,894 
18,894 

18,894 
18,894 

8,647 
8,647 

53,743 
39,529 
93,272 

21,113 
18,894 
40,007 

23,353 
18,894 
42,247 

11,756 
8,647 
20,403 

20 August 2012 
1 April 2009 – 31 March 2012 
1 April 2010 – 31 March 2013  15 November 2013 

15.63
21.25

20 August 2012 
1 April 2009 – 31 March 2012 
1 April 2010 – 31 March 2013  15 November 2013 

15.63
21.25

1 April 2009 – 31 March 2012 
20 August 2012 
1 April 2010 – 31 March 2013  15 November 2013 

15.63
21.25

20 August 2012 
1 April 2009 – 31 March 2012 
1 April 2010 – 31 March 2013  15 November 2013 

15.63
21.25

DCC plc 1998 Employee Share Option Scheme 
Details as at 31 March 2011 of the executive Directors’ and the Company Secretary’s options to subscribe for shares under the DCC 
plc 1998 Employee Share Option Scheme are set out in the table below.

Number of options 

At 31  
March 2010 

Granted 
in year 

Exercised 

At 31 
in year  March 2011 

Weighted
average 
option price 
at 31 
March 2011 
€ 

Normal Exercise Period 

Options exercised
in year

Market
price at
date of
exercise
€

Exercise 
price 
€ 

Executive Directors
Tommy Breen 
Basic Tier 
Second Tier 

Donal Murphy 
Basic Tier 
Second Tier  

Fergal O’Dwyer 
Basic Tier 
Second Tier 

Company Secretary 
Gerard Whyte 
Basic Tier 
Second Tier 

170,000 
95,000 

65,000 
35,000 

117,500 
70,000 

71,000 
41,000 

- 
- 

- 
- 

- 
- 

- 
- 

- 
- 

170,000 
95,000 

15.53 
10.31 

Nov 2004 – May 2018 
Nov 2004 – Nov 2012 

(5,000) 
(5,000) 

60,000 
30,000 

16.24 
10.33 

Nov 2004 – May 2018 
 Nov 2004 – Nov 2012 

11.25 
11.25 

20.31
20.31

- 
- 

117,500 
70,000 

15.37 
10.32 

Nov 2004 – May 2018 
 Nov 2004 – Nov 2012 

(11,000) 
(11,000) 

60,000 
30,000 

16.03 
10.34 

 Nov 2004 – May 2018 
 Nov 2004 – Nov 2012 

11.25 
11.25 

20.31
20.31

The market price of DCC shares on 31 March 2011 was €22.47 and the range during the year was €17.30 to €24.20.

Additional information in relation to the DCC plc Long Term Incentive Plan 2009 and the DCC plc 1998 Employee Share Option Scheme 
appears in note 10 on page 97.

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

67

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Report on Directors’ Remuneration and Interests (continued)

Executive and Non-Executive Directors’ and Company Secretary’s Interests
The interests of the Directors and the Company Secretary (including their respective family interests) in the share capital of DCC plc at 
31 March 2011 (together with their interests at 31 March 2010) are set out below:

Directors 
Michael Buckley 
Tommy Breen 
Róisín Brennan 
David Byrne 
Maurice Keane 
Kevin Melia 
John Moloney 
Donal Murphy 
Fergal O’Dwyer 
Bernard Somers 
Leslie Van de Walle 

Company Secretary 
Gerard Whyte  

  No. of Ordinary Shares 
At 31 March 2011 

No. of Ordinary Shares
At 31 March 2010

10,000 
279,395 
- 
- 
5,000 
1,250 
2,000 
82,313 
254,889 
1,000 
- 

10,000
279,395
-
-
5,000
1,250
2,000
80,113
254,889
1,000
-

142,200 

137,200

All of the above interests were beneficially owned. Apart from the interests disclosed above, the Directors and the Company Secretary 
had no interests in the share capital or loan stock of the Company or any other Group undertaking at 31 March 2011.

The Company’s Register of Directors Interests (which is open to inspection) contains full details of Directors’ shareholdings and share 
options.

Leslie Van de Walle
Chairman, Remuneration Committee
9 May 2011

68

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities

The Directors are responsible for keeping 
proper books of account which disclose 
with reasonable accuracy at any time the 
financial position of the Company and the 
Group and to enable them to ensure that 
the financial statements comply with the 
Companies Acts 1963 to 2009 and, as 
regards the Group financial statements, 
Article 4 of the IAS Regulation. They are 
also responsible for safeguarding the 
assets of the Company and the Group 
and for taking reasonable steps for the 
prevention and detection of fraud and 
other irregularities. 

The Directors are responsible for the 
maintenance and integrity of the corporate 
and financial information included on 
the Company’s website. Legislation in 
the Republic of Ireland governing the 
preparation and dissemination of financial 
statements may differ from legislation in 
other jurisdictions.

Directors’ Statement Pursuant to the 
Transparency Regulations
Each of the Directors, whose names and 
functions are listed on pages 4 and 5, 
confirms that, to the best of each person’s 
knowledge and belief:
•  the financial statements, prepared in 
accordance with IFRS as adopted by 
the European Union, give a true and fair 
view of the assets, liabilities, financial 
position and profit of the Company and 
the Group; and

•  the Report of the Directors includes 
a fair review of the development and 
performance of the Group’s business 
and the position of the Company and 
Group, together with a description of the 
principal risks and uncertainties that they 
face.

The Directors are responsible for preparing 
the Annual Report and the financial 
statements in accordance with applicable 
laws and regulations. 

Irish company law requires the Directors 
to prepare financial statements for each 
financial year, which are required to give a 
true and fair view of the state of affairs of 
the Company and the Group and of the 
profit or loss of the Group.

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 financial statements 

comply with IFRS as adopted by the 
European Union; and

•  prepare the financial statements on 
the going concern basis unless it is 
inappropriate to presume that the 
Group and the Company will continue in 
business. 

The Directors confirm that they have 
complied with the above requirements in 
preparing the financial statements.

The Directors have prepared the Group 
and Company financial statements in 
accordance with International Financial 
Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by 
the European Union. 

The Directors are also required by 
applicable law and the Listing Rules issued 
by the Irish Stock Exchange to prepare 
a Report of the Directors and reports 
relating to Directors’ remuneration and 
corporate governance. In accordance with 
the Transparency (Directive 2004/109/
EC) Regulations 2007 (‘the Transparency 
Regulations’), the Directors are required 
to include a management report 
containing a fair review of the business 
and a description of the principal risks and 
uncertainties facing the Group.

On behalf of the Board

Michael Buckley 
Chairman 

Tommy Breen
Chief Executive

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

69

Report of the Independent Auditors
For the year ended 31 March 2011

To the Members of DCC plc
We have audited the Group and Company 
financial statements (the ‘financial 
statements’) of DCC plc for the year ended 
31 March 2011 which comprise the Group 
Income Statement, the Group and Company 
Balance Sheets, the Group and Company 
Cash Flow Statements, the Group and 
Company Statements of Comprehensive 
Income, the Group and Company 
Statements of Changes in Equity and the 
related notes. These financial statements 
have been prepared under the accounting 
policies set out therein. 

•  whether the Company has kept proper 

books of account;

•  whether the Report of the Directors is 

consistent with the financial statements; 
and 

•  whether at the balance sheet date there 
existed a financial situation which may 
require the Company to convene an 
extraordinary general meeting of the 
Company; such a financial situation may 
exist if the net assets of the Company, as 
stated in the Company Balance Sheet, are 
not more than half of its called-up share 
capital.

Respective Responsibilities of Directors 
and Auditors
The Directors’ responsibilities for preparing 
the Annual Report and the financial 
statements, in accordance with applicable 
law and International Financial Reporting 
Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the 
European Union, are set out in the Statement 
of Directors’ Responsibilities.

Our responsibility is to audit the financial 
statements in accordance with relevant legal 
and regulatory requirements and International 
Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland). 
This report, including the opinion, has been 
prepared for and only for the Company’s 
members as a body in accordance with 
Section 193 of the Companies Act, 1990 
and for no other purpose. We do not, 
in giving this opinion, accept or assume 
responsibility for any other purpose or to any 
other person to whom this report is shown or 
into whose hands it may come save where 
expressly agreed by our prior consent in 
writing.

We report to you our opinion as to whether 
the Group financial statements give a true 
and fair view, in accordance with IFRS 
as adopted by the European Union. We 
report to you our opinion as to whether 
the Company financial statements give a 
true and fair view, in accordance with IFRS 
as adopted by the European Union, as 
applied in accordance with the provisions 
of the Companies Acts, 1963 to 2009. We 
also report to you whether the financial 
statements have been properly prepared in 
accordance with Irish statute comprising the 
Companies Acts, 1963 to 2009 and Article 
4 of the IAS Regulation. We state whether 
we have obtained all the information and 
explanations we consider necessary for 
the purposes of our audit, and whether the 
Company Balance Sheet is in agreement 
with the books of account. We also report to 
you our opinion as to: 

We also report to you if, in our opinion, any 
information specified by law or the Listing 
Rules of the Irish Stock Exchange regarding 
Directors’ remuneration and Directors’ 
transactions is not disclosed and, where 
practicable, include such information in our 
report.

We are required by law to report to you 
our opinion as to whether the description 
in the Corporate Governance Statement 
of the main features of the internal control 
and risk management systems in relation 
to the process for preparing the Group 
financial statements is consistent with the 
Group financial statements. In addition, we 
review whether the Corporate Governance 
Statement reflects the Company’s 
compliance with the nine provisions of the 
2008 Combined Code specified for our 
review by the Listing Rules of the Irish Stock 
Exchange, and we report if it does not. We 
are not required to consider whether the 
Board’s statements on internal control cover 
all risks and controls, or form an opinion on 
the effectiveness of the Group’s corporate 
governance procedures or its risk and control 
procedures.

We read the other information contained in 
the Annual Report and consider whether 
it is consistent with the audited financial 
statements. The other information comprises 
only the Highlights, Group at a Glance, 
Strategy, Chairman’s Statement, Chief 
Executive’s Review, Business Review, 
Financial Review, Sustainability Report, 
Report of the Directors, Principal Risks and 
Uncertainties, Corporate Governance, Report 
on Directors’ Remuneration and Interests, 
Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities and 
5 Year Review. We consider the implications 
for our report if we become aware of 
any apparent misstatements or material 
inconsistencies with the financial statements. 
Our responsibilities do not extend to any 
other information.

70

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
We have obtained all the information and 
explanations which we consider necessary 
for the purposes of our audit. In our 
opinion proper books of account have 
been kept by the Company. The Company 
Balance Sheet is in agreement with the 
books of account.

In our opinion the information given in 
the Report of the Directors is consistent 
with the financial statements and the 
description in the Corporate Governance 
Statement of the main features of the 
internal control and risk management 
systems in relation to the process for 
preparing the Group financial statements 
is consistent with the Group financial 
statements.

The net assets of the Company, as stated 
in the Company Balance Sheet are more 
than half of the amount of its called-up 
share capital and, in our opinion, on that 
basis there did not exist at 31 March 2011 
a financial situation which under Section 
40 (1) of the Companies (Amendment) 
Act, 1983 would require the convening of 
an extraordinary general meeting of the 
Company.

Basis of Audit Opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance 
with International Standards on Auditing 
(UK and Ireland) issued by the Auditing 
Practices Board. An audit includes 
examination, on a test basis, of evidence 
relevant to the amounts and disclosures 
in the financial statements. It also includes 
an assessment of the significant estimates 
and judgements made by the Directors in 
the preparation of the financial statements, 
and of whether the accounting policies are 
appropriate to the Group’s and Company’s 
circumstances, consistently applied and 
adequately disclosed.

We planned and performed our audit 
so as to obtain all the information and 
explanations which we considered 
necessary in order to provide us with 
sufficient evidence to give reasonable 
assurance that the financial statements are 
free from material misstatement, whether 
caused by fraud or other irregularity or 
error. In forming our opinion we also 
evaluated the overall adequacy of the 
presentation of information in the financial 
statements.

Opinion
In our opinion:
•  the Group financial statements give a 
true and fair view, in accordance with 
IFRS as adopted by the European Union, 
of the state of the Group’s affairs as at 
31 March 2011 and of its profit and cash 
flows for the year then ended;

•  the Company financial statements give 

a true and fair view, in accordance 
with IFRS as adopted by the European 
Union as applied in accordance with the 
provisions of the Companies Acts, 1963 
to 2009, of the state of the Company’s 
affairs as at 31 March 2011 and cash 
flows for the year then ended; and
•  the financial statements have been 

properly prepared in accordance with 
the Companies Acts, 1963 to 2009 and 
Article 4 of the IAS Regulation.

PricewaterhouseCoopers
Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors
Dublin, Ireland
9 May 2011 

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

71

Group Income Statement
For the year ended 31 March 2011

2011 

2010 

  exceptionals 
€’000 

Note 

Pre  Exceptionals 
(note 11) 
€’000 

Total 
€’000 

Pre 
exceptionals 
€’000 

Exceptionals 
(note 11) 
€’000 

Total
€’000

Revenue 
Cost of sales 
Gross profit 
Administration expenses 
Selling and distribution expenses 
Other operating income 
Other operating expenses 
Operating profit before 
amortisation of intangible assets 
Amortisation of intangible assets 
Operating profit 
Finance costs 
Finance income 
Share of associates’ (loss)/profit after tax 
Profit before tax 
Income tax expense 

4  8,680,573 
(7,925,798) 
754,775 
(257,899) 
(289,748) 
25,423 
(2,931) 

5 
5 

-  8,680,573  6,724,971 
(7,925,798)  (6,054,577) 
- 
670,394 
- 
(234,181) 
- 
(251,118) 
- 
9,703 
7,177 
(1,965) 
(19,827) 

754,775 
(257,899) 
(289,748) 
32,600 
(22,758) 

4 
4 

12 
12 
14 

15 

229,620 
(10,962) 
218,658 
(50,517) 
35,939 
(239) 
203,841 
(42,417) 

(12,650) 
- 
(12,650) 
(1,623) 
- 
- 
(14,273) 
(1,354) 

216,970 
(10,962) 
206,008 
(52,140) 
35,939 
(239) 
189,568 
(43,771) 

192,833 
(6,150) 
186,683 
(34,300) 
23,415 
152 
175,950 
(33,207) 

-  6,724,971
(6,054,577)
- 
670,394
- 
(234,181)
- 
(251,118)
- 
10,530
827 
(12,556)
(10,591) 

(9,764) 
- 
(9,764) 
(1,285) 
- 
- 
(11,049) 
- 

183,069
(6,150)
176,919
(35,585)
23,415
152
164,901
(33,207)

Profit after tax for the financial year 

161,424 

(15,627) 

145,797 

142,743 

(11,049) 

131,694

Profit attributable to: 
Owners of the Parent 
Non-controlling interests 

Earnings per ordinary share 
Basic 
Diluted 

18 
18 

Michael Buckley, Tommy Breen, Directors

145,109 
688 
145,797 

174.48c 
173.90c 

130,803
891
131,694

158.76c
157.92c

72

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Group Statement of Comprehensive Income
For the year ended 31 March 2011

Group profit for the financial year 

Other comprehensive income: 
Currency translation effects 
Group defined benefit pension obligations: 
- actuarial loss 
- movement in deferred tax asset 
Gains relating to cash flow hedges 
Movement in deferred tax liability on cash flow hedges   
Other comprehensive income for the financial year, net of tax  

Total comprehensive income for the financial year 

Attributable to: 
Owners of the Parent 
Non-controlling interests 

Michael Buckley, Tommy Breen, Directors

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

145,797 

131,694

4,636 

23,353

(2,590) 
336 
1,623 
(341) 
3,664 

(1,595)
861
986
(107)
23,498

149,461 

155,192

148,773 
688 
149,461 

154,212
980
155,192

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

73

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Group Balance Sheet
As at 31 March 2011

ASSETS 
Non-current assets 
Property, plant and equipment 
Intangible assets 
Investments in associates 
Deferred income tax assets 
Derivative financial instruments 

Current assets 
Inventories 
Trade and other receivables 
Derivative financial instruments 
Cash and cash equivalents 

Total assets 

EQUITY 
Capital and reserves attributable to owners of the Parent 
Share capital 
Share premium 
Other reserves - share options 
Cash flow hedge reserve 
Foreign currency translation reserve 
Other reserves 
Retained earnings 

Non-controlling interests 
Total equity 

LIABILITIES 
Non-current liabilities 
Borrowings 
Derivative financial instruments 
Deferred income tax liabilities 
Retirement benefit obligations 
Provisions for liabilities and charges 
Deferred and contingent acquisition consideration 
Government grants 

Current liabilities 
Trade and other payables 
Current income tax liabilities 
Borrowings 
Derivative financial instruments 
Provisions for liabilities and charges 
Deferred and contingent acquisition consideration 

Total liabilities 
Total equity and liabilities 

Michael Buckley, Tommy Breen, Directors

74

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

Note 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

19 
20 
21 
31 
28 

395,485 
636,114 
2,281 
9,328 
84,376 

358,096
595,090
2,393
12,166
101,921
  1,127,584  1,069,666

23 
248,129 
24  1,034,275 
3,562 
28 
700,340 
27 

234,898
922,019
1,343
714,917
  1,986,306  1,873,177
  3,113,890  2,942,843

36 
37 
38 
38 
38 
38 
39 

40 

29 
28 
31 
32 
34 
33 
35 

22,057 
124,687 
10,537 
987 
(125,136) 
1,400 
895,108 
929,640 
2,234 
931,874 

22,057
124,687
9,148
(295)
(129,772)
1,400
806,452
833,677
3,249
836,926

762,244 
30,142 
25,434 
19,335 
14,256 
65,188 
2,864 
919,463 

793,663
19,331
23,479
23,690
11,429
49,351
3,678
924,621

29 
28 
34 
33 

59,427 
40,542 
533 
3,109 
9,156 

25  1,149,786  1,039,641
71,699
58,169
557
6,372
4,858
  1,262,553  1,181,296
  2,182,016  2,105,917
  3,113,890  2,942,843

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Group Statement of Changes in Equity 

For the year ended 31 March 2011  

Attributable to owners of the Parent

Share 
capital 
€’000 

Share 
premium 
€’000 

Retained 
earnings 
€’000 

Other 
reserves 
(note 38) 
€’000 

Non- 
controlling 
interests 
€’000 

Total 
€’000 

Total
equity
€’000

At 1 April 2010 

22,057 

124,687 

806,452 

(119,519) 

833,677 

3,249 

836,926

Profit for the financial year 

Other comprehensive income/(expense): 
Currency translation 
Group defined benefit pension obligations: 
- actuarial loss 
- movement in deferred tax asset 
Gains relating to cash flow hedges 
Movement in deferred tax
liability on cash flow hedges 
Total comprehensive income 

- 

- 

- 
- 
- 

- 
- 

- 

145,109 

- 

145,109 

688 

145,797

- 

- 
- 
- 

- 
- 

- 

4,636 

4,636 

(2,590) 
336 
- 

- 
- 
1,623 

(2,590) 
336 
1,623 

- 

- 
- 
- 

4,636

(2,590)
336
1,623

- 
142,855 

(341) 
5,918 

(341) 
148,773 

- 
688 

(341)
149,461

Re-issue of treasury shares  
Share based payment 
Dividends 
Other movements in non-controlling interests 
At 31 March 2011 

- 
- 
- 
- 
22,057 

- 
- 
- 
- 
124,687 

3,835 
- 
(58,034) 
- 
895,108 

- 
1,389 
- 
- 
(112,212) 

3,835 
1,389 
(58,034) 
- 
929,640 

- 
- 
- 
(1,703) 
2,234 

3,835
1,389
(58,034)
(1,703)
931,874

For the year ended 31 March 2010 

Attributable to owners of the Parent

Share 
capital 
€’000 

Share 
premium 
€’000 

Retained 
earnings 
€’000 

Other 
reserves 
(note 38) 
€’000 

Non- 
controlling 
interests 
€’000 

Total 
€’000 

Total
equity
€’000

At 1 April 2009 

22,057 

124,687 

720,909 

(145,003) 

722,650 

3,581 

726,231

Profit for the financial year 

Other comprehensive income/(expense): 
Currency translation 
Group defined benefit pension obligations: 
- actuarial loss 
- movement in deferred tax asset 
Gains relating to cash flow hedges 
Movement in deferred tax
liability on cash flow hedges 
Total comprehensive income 

- 

- 

- 
- 
- 

- 
- 

- 

130,803 

- 

130,803 

891 

131,694

- 

- 
- 
- 

- 
- 

- 

23,264 

23,264 

89 

23,353

(1,595) 
861 
- 

- 
- 
986 

(1,595) 
861 
986 

- 
- 
- 

(1,595)
861
986

- 
130,069 

(107) 
24,143 

(107) 
154,212 

- 
980 

(107)
155,192

Re-issue of treasury shares  
Share based payment 
Dividends 
Other movements in non-controlling interests 
At 31 March 2010 

- 
- 
- 
- 
22,057 

- 
- 
- 
- 
124,687 

7,657 
- 
(52,183) 
- 
806,452 

- 
1,341 
- 
- 
(119,519) 

7,657 
1,341 
(52,183) 
- 
833,677 

- 
- 
- 
(1,312) 
3,249 

7,657
1,341
(52,183)
(1,312)
836,926

Michael Buckley, Tommy Breen, Directors

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

75

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 

41 

35 

45 

17 
40 

30 

27 
30 
30 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

269,572 
(8,935) 
(43,276) 
(56,343) 
161,018 

297,757
(12,842)
(32,297)
(20,548)
232,070

5,586 
626 
28,431 
- 
30,809 
65,452 

9,831
1,799
-
827
19,824
32,281

(83,381) 
(74,614) 
(3,709) 
(161,704) 
(96,252) 

(47,268)
(129,515)
(4,127)
(180,910)
(148,629)

3,835 
- 
658 
4,493 

(21,157) 
(1,234) 
(58,034) 
(219) 
(80,644) 
(76,151) 

7,657
1,035
293,568
302,260

(43,424)
(618)
(52,183)
(275)
(96,500)
205,760

(11,385) 
2,552 
674,961 
666,128 

289,201
10,243
375,517
674,961

700,340 
(34,212) 
666,128 

714,917
(39,956)
674,961

Group Cash Flow Statement
For the year ended 31 March 2011

Cash generated from operations 
Exceptionals 
Interest paid 
Income tax paid 
Net cash flows from operating activities 

Investing activities 
Inflows 
Proceeds from disposal of property, plant and equipment 
Government grants received 
Proceeds on disposal of subsidiaries 
Proceeds on disposal of associate 
Interest received 

Outflows 
Purchase of property, plant and equipment 
Acquisition of subsidiaries  
Deferred and contingent acquisition consideration paid  

Net cash flows from investing activities 

Financing activities 
Inflows 
Re-issue of treasury shares 
Increase in finance lease liabilities 
Increase in interest-bearing loans and borrowings 

Outflows 
Repayment of interest-bearing loans and borrowings 
Repayment of finance lease liabilities 
Dividends paid to owners of the Parent 
Dividends paid to non-controlling interests 

Net cash flows from financing activities 

Change in cash and cash equivalents 
Translation adjustment 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 

Cash and cash equivalents consists of: 
Cash and short term bank deposits 
Overdrafts 

Michael Buckley, Tommy Breen, Directors

76

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Company Statement of Comprehensive Income
For the year ended 31 March 2011

Profit for the financial year 
Total comprehensive income for the financial year 

Attributable to: 
Owners of the Parent 

Company Balance Sheet
As at 31 March 2011

ASSETS
Non-current assets 
Investments in associates 
Investments in subsidiary undertakings 

Current assets 
Trade and other receivables 
Cash and cash equivalents 

Total assets 

EQUITY 
Capital and reserves attributable to owners of the Parent 
Share capital 
Share premium 
Other reserves 
Retained earnings 
Total equity 

LIABILITIES 
Non-current liabilities 
Amounts due to subsidiary undertakings 

Current liabilities 
Trade and other payables 

Total liabilities 
Total equity and liabilities 

Michael Buckley, Tommy Breen, Directors

Note 

16 

2011 
€’000 

10,284 
10,284 

2010
€’000

3,852
3,852

10,284 

3,852

Note 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

21 
22 

24 
27 

36 
37 
38 
39 

25 

1,244 
168,065 
169,309 

414,314 
30 
414,344 
583,653 

1,244
168,065
169,309

421,462
6,232
427,694
597,003

22,057 
124,687 
344 
109,728 
256,816 

22,057
124,687
344
153,643
300,731

10,387 
10,387 

10,387
10,387

316,450 
316,450 
326,837 
583,653 

285,885
285,885
296,272
597,003

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

77

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Company Statement of Changes in Equity

For the year ended 31 March 2011 

Share 
capital 
€’000 

Share 
premium 
€’000 

Retained 
earnings 
€’000 

Other 
reserves 
(note 38) 
€’000 

Total
equity
€’000

At 1 April 2010 

22,057 

124,687 

153,643 

344 

300,731

Profit for the financial year 
Total comprehensive income 

Re-issue of treasury shares  
Dividends 
At 31 March 2011 

For the year ended 31 March 2010 

- 
- 

- 
- 

10,284 
10,284 

- 
- 

10,284
10,284

- 
- 
22,057 

- 
- 
124,687 

3,835 
(58,034) 
109,728 

- 
- 
344 

3,835
(58,034)
256,816

Share 
capital 
€’000 

Share 
premium 
€’000 

Retained 
earnings 
€’000 

Other 
reserves 
(note 38) 
€’000 

Total
equity
€’000

At 1 April 2009 

22,057 

124,687 

194,317 

344 

341,405

Profit for the financial year 
Total comprehensive income 

Re-issue of treasury shares  
Dividends 
At 31 March 2010 

Michael Buckley, Tommy Breen, Directors

- 
- 

- 
- 

3,852 
3,852 

- 
- 
22,057 

- 
- 
124,687 

7,657 
(52,183) 
153,643 

- 
- 

- 
- 
344 

3,852
3,852

7,657
(52,183)
300,731

78

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Company Cash Flow Statement
For the year ended 31 March 2011

Cash generated from operations 
Interest paid 
Income tax received 
Net cash flows from operating activities 

Investing activities 
Inflows 
Interest received 

Outflows 
Acquisition of subsidiaries 

Net cash flows from investing activities 

Financing activities 
Inflows 
Re-issue of treasury shares 

Outflows 
Dividends paid to owners of the Parent 

Net cash flows from financing activities 

Change in cash and cash equivalents 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 

Michael Buckley, Tommy Breen, Directors

Note 

41 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

34,756 
(1,052) 
- 
33,704 

51,388
(965)
2
50,425

14,293 
14,293 

- 
- 
14,293 

6,518
6,518

(7,000)
(7,000)
(482)

3,835 
3,835 

7,657
7,657

17 

(58,034) 
(58,034) 
(54,199) 

(52,183)
(52,183)
(44,526)

(6,202) 
6,232 
30 

5,417
815
6,232

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

79

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Statement of Compliance 
The consolidated financial statements of DCC plc have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards 
(IFRS) and their interpretations approved by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) as adopted by the European Union 
(EU) and those parts of the Companies Acts, 1963 to 2009 applicable to companies reporting under IFRS. Both the Parent Company 
and the Group financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the EU. In presenting the Parent 
Company financial statements together with the Group financial statements, the Company has availed of the exemption in Section 
148(8) of the Companies Act 1963 not to present its individual Income Statement and related notes that form part of the approved 
Company financial statements. The Company has also availed of the exemption from filing its individual Income Statement with the 
Registrar of Companies as permitted by Section 7(1A) of the Companies (Amendment) Act 1986.

DCC plc, the parent company, is a publicly traded limited company incorporated and domiciled in the Republic of Ireland.

Basis of Preparation
The consolidated financial statements, which are presented in euro, rounded to the nearest thousand, have been prepared under the 
historical cost convention, as modified by the measurement at fair value of share options and derivative financial instruments. The 
carrying values of recognised assets and liabilities that are hedged are adjusted to record changes in the fair values attributable to the 
risks that are being hedged.

The accounting policies applied in the preparation of the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2011 are set out below. 
These policies have been applied consistently by the Group’s subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates for all periods presented in 
these consolidated financial statements.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. In addition, it 
requires management to exercise judgement in the process of applying the Company’s accounting policies. The areas involving a high 
degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the consolidated financial statements 
are documented in note 3.

Adoption of IFRS and International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (‘IFRIC’) Interpretations
The Group has adopted the following standards, interpretations and amendments to existing standards during the financial year:

•   Improvements to IFRS (effective date: DCC financial year beginning 1 April 2010). The improvements include changes in presentation, 
recognition and measurement plus terminology and editorial changes. These improvements did not have a significant impact on the 
Group’s financial statements.

•  IFRS 1 Revised First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (effective date: DCC financial year beginning 1 April 
2010). This revised standard clarifies the requirements for first-time adoption of new and amended IFRS. This standard did not have a 
significant impact on the Group’s financial statements.

•  IFRS 3 Revised Business Combinations (effective date: DCC financial year beginning 1 April 2010). This standard establishes 

principles for how an acquirer recognises, measures and discloses in its financial statements the goodwill acquired in a business 
combination and the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interest in the acquiree. Contingent 
consideration is measured at fair value with subsequent changes recognised in the Income Statement and transaction costs, other 
than share and debt issue costs, are expensed as incurred.

•  Amendment to IAS 27 Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements (effective date: DCC financial year beginning 1 April 2010). 

The objective of this amendment is to enhance the relevance, reliability and comparability of the information that a parent entity 
provides in its separate financial statements and in its consolidated financial statements for a group of entities under its control. The 
introduction of this amendment has not had a material impact on Group reporting in the current year.

•  Amendment to IAS 39 Eligible Hedged Items (effective date: DCC financial year beginning 1 April 2010). This amendment clarifies 

how the principles that determine whether a hedged risk (or portions of cash flows) is eligible for designation should be applied. This 
amendment did not have a significant impact on the Group’s financial statements.

•  IFRIC Interpretation 17 Distributions of Non-cash Assets to Owners (effective date: DCC financial year beginning 1 April 2010). This 
interpretation gives guidance on measuring the distribution of assets, other than cash, when paying a dividend to the owners of the 
entity. This IFRIC had no effect on the Group’s financial statements.

•  IFRIC Interpretation 18 Transfers of Assets from Customers (effective date: DCC financial year beginning 1 April 2010). This 

interpretation gives guidance for utility companies on receipt from customers of property, plant and equipment that must be used to 
connect those customers to a utilities network. This IFRIC had no effect on the Group’s financial statements.

•  Amendment to IFRS 2 Share-based Payment: Group Cash-Settled Share-based Payment Transactions (effective date: DCC financial 

year beginning 1 April 2010). This amendment incorporates the changes previously applied under IFRIC 8 and IFRIC 11. This standard 
did not have a significant impact on the Group’s financial statements.

80

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Standards, interpretations and amendments to published standards that are not yet effective 
The Group has not applied certain new standards, amendments and interpretations to existing standards that have been issued but are 
not yet effective. These include the following:

•  IFRIC Interpretation 19 Extinguishing Financial Liabilities with Equity Instruments (effective date: DCC financial year beginning 1 April 

2011). This interpretation addresses the accounting by an entity when the terms of a financial liability are renegotiated and result in the 
entity issuing equity instruments to extinguish all or part of the liability. This IFRIC will have no effect on the Group’s financial statements.
•  IAS 24 Revised Related Party Disclosures (effective date: DCC financial year beginning 1 April 2011). This revised standard simplifies 

the definition of related parties and provides a partial exemption from the disclosure requirements for government-related entities. This 
standard will not have a significant impact on the Group’s financial statements.

•  IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (effective date: DCC financial year beginning 1 April 2013). This standard will eventually replace IAS 39 
Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement. It currently establishes principles for the financial reporting of financial assets 
in order for users of the financial statements to assess the amounts, timing and uncertainty of the entity’s future cash flows. This 
standard will not have a significant impact on the Group’s financial statements.

Basis of Consolidation
Subsidiaries
Subsidiaries are entities that are controlled by the Group. Control exists where the Group has the power, directly or indirectly, to govern 
the financial and operating policies of the entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities. In assessing control, potential voting rights 
that are currently exercisable or convertible are taken into account.

The results of subsidiary undertakings acquired or disposed of during the year are included in the Group Income Statement from the 
date of their acquisition or up to the date of their disposal. Where necessary, adjustments are made to the financial statements of 
subsidiaries to bring their accounting policies into line with those used by the Group.

Joint ventures 
In accordance with IAS 31 Interests in Joint Ventures, the Group’s share of results and net assets of joint ventures, which are entities in 
which the Group holds an interest on a long-term basis and which are jointly controlled by the Group and one or more other venturers 
under a contractual arrangement, are accounted for on the basis of proportionate consolidation from the date on which the contractual 
agreements stipulating joint control are finalised and are derecognised when joint control ceases. All of the Group’s joint ventures 
are jointly controlled entities within the meaning of IAS 31. The Group combines its share of the joint ventures’ individual income and 
expenses, assets and liabilities and cash flows on a line-by-line basis with similar items in the Group’s financial statements.

Associates
Associates are all entities over which the Group has significant influence but not control, generally accompanying a shareholding of 
between 20% and 50% of the voting rights. Investments in associates are accounted for using the equity method of accounting and 
are initially recognised at cost. The Group’s investment in associates includes goodwill identified on acquisition, net of any accumulated 
impairment loss. Goodwill attributable to investments in associates is treated in accordance with the accounting policy for goodwill.

The Group’s share of its associates’ post-acquisition profits or losses is recognised in the Group Income Statement, and its share of 
post-acquisition movements in reserves is recognised in reserves. The cumulative post-acquisition movements are adjusted against the 
carrying amount of the investment. When the Group’s share of losses in an associate equals or exceeds its interest in the associate, 
including any other unsecured receivables, the Group does not recognise further losses, unless it has incurred obligations or made 
payments on behalf of the associate.

The results of associates are included from the effective date on which the Group obtains significant influence and are excluded from the 
effective date on which the Group ceases to have significant influence.

Transactions eliminated on consolidation
Intra-group balances and transactions, and any unrealised gains arising from such transactions, are eliminated in preparing the 
consolidated financial statements. Unrealised gains arising from transactions with joint ventures and associates are eliminated to the 
extent of the Group’s interest in the entity. Unrealised losses are eliminated in the same manner as unrealised gains, but only to the 
extent that there is no evidence of impairment.

Comparative Amounts
The Group uses derivative financial instruments to hedge its exposure to interest expense risks arising from financing activities. In previous 
years in the Income Statement, the Group disclosed the net expense arising on Group borrowings and related swaps in Finance Costs. 
In the current year in the Income Statement, the Group has disclosed the interest expense on Group borrowings in Finance Costs and 
the net income receivable on swaps relating to those Group borrowings in Finance Income. Similarly in the Group Cash Flow Statement, 
disclosures reflect interest paid on Group borrowings and amounts received from swap counterparties. The comparative amounts have 
been presented on a consistent basis. This adjustment has no impact on the operating profit, net finance cost, profit before taxation, 
earnings per share or net cash flows previously reported for the year ended 31 March 2010.

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

81

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Revenue Recognition
Revenue comprises the fair value of the sale of goods and services to external customers net of value added tax, rebates and 
discounts. Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised when significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods are transferred 
to the buyer, which generally arises on delivery, or in accordance with specific terms and conditions agreed with customers. Revenue 
from the rendering of services is recognised in the period in which the services are rendered. 

Interest income is accrued on a time basis, by reference to the principal outstanding and at the effective interest rate applicable.

Dividend income from investments is recognised when shareholders’ rights to receive payment have been established.

Segment Reporting 
Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision maker who 
is responsible for allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating segments. The Group has determined that it has five 
reportable operating segments: DCC Energy, DCC SerCom, DCC Healthcare, DCC Environmental and DCC Food & Beverage.

Foreign Currency Translation
Functional and presentation currency
The consolidated financial statements are presented in euro which is the Company’s functional and the Group’s presentation currency. 
Items included in the financial statements of each of the Group’s entities are measured using the currency of the primary economic 
environment in which the entity operates. 

Transactions and balances 
Transactions in foreign currencies are recorded at the rate of exchange ruling at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and 
liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rate of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Currency translation 
differences on monetary assets and liabilities are taken to the Group Income Statement except when cash flow or net investment hedge 
accounting is applied. 

Group companies
Results and cash flows of subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates which do not have the euro as their functional currency are 
translated into euro at average exchange rates for the year. Average exchange rates are a reasonable approximation of the cumulative 
effect of the rates on the transaction dates. The related balance sheets are translated at the rates of exchange ruling at the balance 
sheet date. Adjustments arising on translation of the results of such subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates at average rates, and on 
the restatement of the opening net assets at closing rates, are dealt with in a separate translation reserve within equity, net of differences 
on related currency instruments designated as hedges of such investments.

On disposal of a foreign operation, such cumulative currency translation differences are recognised in the Income Statement as part of 
the overall gain or loss on disposal. In accordance with IFRS 1, cumulative currency translation differences arising prior to the transition 
date to IFRS (1 April 2004) have been set to zero for the purposes of ascertaining the gain or loss on disposal of a foreign operation. 

Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on acquisition of a foreign operation are regarded as assets and liabilities of the foreign 
operation, are expressed in the functional currency of the foreign operation and are recorded at the exchange rate at the date of the 
transaction and subsequently retranslated at the applicable closing rates.

Exceptional Items
The Group has adopted an Income Statement format which seeks to highlight significant items within the Group results for the year. 
Such items may include restructuring, profit or loss on disposal or termination of operations, litigation costs and settlements, profit 
or loss on disposal of investments, profit or loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment, IAS 39 ineffective mark to market 
movements together with gains or losses arising from currency swaps offset by gains or losses on related fixed rate debt, acquisition 
costs, profit or loss on defined benefit pension scheme restructuring and impairment of assets. Judgement is used by the Group in 
assessing the particular items, which by virtue of their scale and nature, should be presented in the Income Statement and disclosed in 
the related notes as exceptional items.

Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. Depreciation is 
provided on a straight-line basis at the rates stated below, which are estimated to reduce each item of property, plant and equipment to 
its residual value level by the end of its useful life:

Freehold and long term leasehold buildings 
Plant and machinery  
Cylinders 
Motor vehicles 
Fixtures, fittings & office equipment 

Annual Rate
2%
3%
3%
3%
3%

5 - 331/
62/
10 - 331/
10 - 331/

82

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Land is not depreciated. The residual values and useful lives of property, plant and equipment are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, 
at each balance sheet date.

In accordance with IAS 36 Impairment of Assets, the carrying amounts of items of property, plant and equipment are reviewed at each 
balance sheet date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. An impairment loss is recognised whenever the carrying 
amount of an asset or its cash-generating unit exceeds its recoverable amount.

Impairment losses are recognised in the Income Statement. Following the recognition of an impairment loss, the depreciation charge 
applicable to the asset or cash-generating unit is adjusted prospectively in order to systematically allocate the revised carrying amount, 
net of any residual value, over the remaining useful life.

Subsequent costs are included in an asset’s carrying amount or recognised as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable 
that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the Group and the cost of the replaced item can be measured reliably. All 
other repair and maintenance costs are charged to the Income Statement during the financial period in which they are incurred. 

Borrowing costs directly attributable to the construction of property, plant and equipment are capitalised as part of the cost of those assets.

Business Combinations
Business combinations from 1 April 2010
Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. The cost of an acquisition is measured as the aggregate of the 
consideration transferred, measured at acquisition date fair value and the amount of any non-controlling interest in the acquiree. For 
each business combination, the acquirer measures the non-controlling interest in the acquiree either at fair value or at the proportionate 
share of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets. Acquisition costs are expensed as incurred.

When the Group acquires a business it assesses the financial assets and liabilities assumed for appropriate classification and 
designation in accordance with the contractual terms, economic circumstances and pertinent conditions as at the acquisition date. 

If the business combination is achieved in stages, the acquisition date fair value of the acquirer’s previously held equity interest in the 
acquiree is re-measured to fair value at the acquisition date through the Income Statement.

Any contingent consideration to be transferred by the acquirer will be recognised at fair value at the acquisition date. Subsequent 
changes to the fair value of the contingent consideration which is deemed to be an asset or liability will be recognised in accordance 
with IAS39 in the Income Statement. 

Goodwill is initially measured at cost being the excess of the aggregate of the consideration transferred and the amount recognised 
for non-controlling interest over the net identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. If this consideration is lower than the fair 
value of the net assets of the subsidiary acquired in the case of a bargain purchase, the difference is recognised in the Statement of 
Comprehensive Income.

Business combinations prior to 1 April 2010
Business combinations were accounted for using the purchase method. Transaction costs directly attributable to the acquisition formed 
part of the acquisition costs. The non-controlling interest (formerly known as minority interest) was measured at the proportionate share 
of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets.

Business combinations achieved in stages were accounted for as separate steps. Any additional acquired share of interest did not affect 
previously recognised goodwill.

Contingent consideration was recognised if the Group had a present obligation, the economic outflow was more likely than not and a 
reliable estimate was determinable. Subsequent adjustments to the contingent consideration were recognised as part of goodwill.

Goodwill
Goodwill arising in respect of acquisitions completed prior to 1 April 2004 (being the transition date to IFRS) is included at its carrying 
amount, which equates to its net book value recorded under previous GAAP. In accordance with IFRS 1, the accounting treatment of 
business combinations undertaken prior to the transition date was not reconsidered and goodwill amortisation ceased with effect from 
the transition date. 

Goodwill on acquisitions is initially measured at cost being the excess of the cost of the business combination over the acquirer’s 
interest in the net fair value of the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities. Goodwill acquired in a business combination is 
allocated, from the acquisition date, to the cash-generating units or groups of cash-generating units that are expected to benefit from 
the business combination in which the goodwill arose.

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

83

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Following initial recognition, goodwill is measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill is reviewed for impairment 
annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired.

The carrying amount of goodwill in respect of associates, net of any impairment, is included in investments in associates under the 
equity method in the Group Balance Sheet.

Goodwill is subject to impairment testing on an annual basis and at any time during the year if an indicator of impairment is considered 
to exist; the goodwill impairment tests are undertaken at a consistent time in each annual period. Impairment is determined by 
assessing the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which the goodwill relates. Where the recoverable amount of the cash-
generating unit is less than the carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognised. Impairment losses arising in respect of goodwill are 
not reversed following recognition.

Where a subsidiary is sold, any goodwill arising on acquisition, net of any impairments, is included in determining the profit or loss 
arising on disposal. 

Where goodwill forms part of a cash-generating unit and part of the operations within that unit are disposed of, the goodwill associated 
with the operation disposed of is included in the carrying amount of the operation when determining the gain or loss on disposal of the 
operation. Goodwill disposed of in this circumstance is measured on the basis of the relative values of the operation disposed of and the 
proportion of the cash-generating unit retained.

Intangible Assets (other than Goodwill)
Intangible assets acquired separately are capitalised at cost. Intangible assets acquired in the course of a business combination are 
capitalised at fair value being their deemed cost as at the date of acquisition. 

Following initial recognition, intangible assets which have a finite life are carried at cost less any applicable accumulated amortisation 
and any accumulated impairment losses. Where amortisation is charged on assets with finite lives this expense is taken to the Income 
Statement.

The amortisation of intangible assets is calculated to write off the book value of intangible assets over their useful lives on a straight-line 
basis on the assumption of zero residual value. In general, finite-lived intangible assets are amortised over periods ranging from two to 
six years, depending on the nature of the intangible asset.

The carrying amount of finite-lived intangible assets are reviewed for indicators of impairment at each reporting date and are subject 
to impairment testing when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying values may not be recoverable. For the 
purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash flows (cash-
generating units).

Leases
Leases are classified as finance leases whenever the terms of the lease transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of 
the asset to the lessee. All other leases are classified as operating leases.

Assets held under finance leases are capitalised as assets of the Group at the inception of the lease at the lower of the fair value of the 
leased asset and the present value of the minimum lease payments. The corresponding liability to the lessor is included in the Balance 
Sheet as a short, medium or long term lease obligation as appropriate. Lease payments are apportioned between finance charges and 
reduction of the lease obligation so as to achieve a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability. Finance charges are 
recognised in the Income Statement.

Rentals payable under operating leases (net of any incentives received from the lessor) are charged to the Income Statement on a 
straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease. 

Inventories
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value.

Cost is determined on a first in first out basis and in the case of raw materials, bought-in goods and expense inventories, comprises 
purchase price plus transport and handling costs less trade discounts and subsidies. Cost, in the case of products manufactured by the 
Group, consists of direct material and labour costs together with the relevant production overheads based on normal levels of activity. Net 
realisable value represents the estimated selling price less costs to completion and appropriate selling and distribution costs.

Provision is made, where necessary, for slow moving, obsolete and defective inventories.

84

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Trade and Other Receivables
Trade and other receivables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest 
method less provision for impairment.

A provision for impairment of trade receivables is established when there is objective evidence that the Group will not be able to collect 
all amounts due according to the original terms of receivables. Significant financial difficulties of the debtor, probability that the debtor 
will enter bankruptcy or financial reorganisation, and default in payments are considered indicators that the trade receivable is impaired. 
The amount of the provision is the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows. 
The amount of the provision is recognised in the Income Statement.

Trade and Other Payables
Trade and other payables are initially recognised at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost, which approximates to fair 
value given the short-dated nature of these liabilities.

Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash at bank and in hand and short term deposits with an original maturity of three months or less. 

For the purpose of the Group Cash Flow Statement, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and cash equivalents as defined above 
net of bank overdrafts.

Derivative Financial Instruments 
The Group uses derivative financial instruments (principally interest rate, currency and cross currency interest rate swaps and forward 
foreign exchange and commodity contracts) to hedge its exposure to interest rate and foreign exchange risks and to changes in the 
prices of certain commodity products arising from operational, financing and investment activities.

Derivative financial instruments are recognised at inception at fair value, being the present value of estimated future cash flows. The 
method of recognising the resulting gain or loss depends on whether the derivative is designated as a hedging instrument, and if so, the 
nature of the item being hedged. 

Changes in the fair value of currency swaps that are hedging borrowings and for which the Group have not elected to apply hedge 
accounting are reflected in the Income Statement in ‘Finance Costs’ and presented in note 12. 

Changes in the fair value of other derivative financial instruments for which the Group have not elected to apply hedge accounting are 
reflected in the Income Statement, in ‘Other Operating Income’ or ‘Other Operating Expenses’ and presented in note 5. 

Hedging
For the purposes of hedge accounting, hedges are designated either as fair value hedges (which hedge the exposure to movements 
in the fair value of a recognised asset or liability or a firm commitment that are attributable to hedged risks) or cash flow hedges (which 
hedge exposure to fluctuations in future cash flows derived from a particular risk associated with a recognised asset or liability or a 
highly probable forecast transaction).

The Group documents at the inception of the transaction the relationship between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as 
its risk management objectives and strategy for undertaking various hedging transactions. The Group also documents its assessment, 
both at hedge inception and on an ongoing basis, of whether the derivatives that are used in hedging transactions are highly effective in 
offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of hedged items.

The fair values of various derivative instruments are disclosed in note 28 and the movements on the hedging reserve in shareholders’ 
equity are shown in note 38. The full fair value of a derivative is classified as a non-current asset or non-current liability if the remaining 
maturity of the derivative is more than twelve months, and as a current asset or current liability if the remaining maturity of the derivative 
is less than twelve months.

Fair value hedge
In the case of fair value hedges which satisfy the conditions for hedge accounting, any gain or loss arising from the re-measurement of the 
fair value of the hedging instrument is reported in the Income Statement, together with any changes in the fair value of the hedged asset or 
liability that are attributable to the hedged risk. As a result, the gain or loss on interest rate swaps and cross currency interest rate swaps 
that are in hedge relationships with borrowings are included within ‘Finance Income’ or ‘Finance Costs’. In the case of the related hedged 
borrowings any gain or loss on the hedged item which is attributable to the hedged risk is adjusted against the carrying amount of the 
hedged item and reflected in the Income Statement within ‘Finance Costs’ or ‘Finance Income’. The gain or loss on commodity derivatives 
that are fair value hedges of firm commitments are recognised in revenue. Any change in the fair value of the firm commitment attributable 
to the hedged risk is recognised as an asset or liability on the balance sheet with a corresponding gain or loss in Revenue.

If a hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, the adjustment to the carrying amount of the hedged item is amortised to 
the Income Statement over the period to maturity.

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

85

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Cash flow hedge
Where a derivative financial instrument is designated as a hedge of the variability in cash flows of a recognised asset or liability or a 
highly probable forecasted transaction, the effective part of any gain or loss on the derivative financial instrument is recognised as 
a separate component of equity with the ineffective portion being reported in the Income Statement in ‘Other Operating Income’ or 
‘Other Operating Expenses’. When a forecast transaction results in the recognition of an asset or a liability, the cumulative gain or loss is 
removed from equity and included in the initial measurement of the asset or liability. Otherwise, the associated gains or losses that had 
previously been recognised in equity are transferred to the Income Statement in the same reporting period as the hedged transaction in 
Revenue or Costs of Sales (depending on whether the hedge related to a forecasted sale or purchase). 

When a hedging instrument expires or is sold, or when a hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, any cumulative gain 
or loss existing in equity at that time remains in equity and is recognised when the forecast transaction is ultimately recognised in the 
Income Statement. When a forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss that was reported in equity 
is immediately transferred to the Income Statement.

Interest-Bearing Loans and Borrowings
All loans and borrowings are initially recorded at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred. Loans and borrowings are subsequently 
stated at amortised cost; any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the redemption value is recognised in the 
Income Statement over the period of the borrowings using the effective interest method.

Provisions
A provision is recognised in the Balance Sheet when the Group has a present obligation (either legal or constructive) as a result of a 
past event, and it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation. Provisions are measured at 
the Directors’ best estimate of the expenditure required to settle the obligation at the balance sheet date and are discounted to present 
value where the effect is material. 

A provision for restructuring is recognised when the Group has approved a detailed and formal restructuring plan and announced its 
main provisions.

Provisions arising on business combinations are only recognised to the extent that they would have qualified for recognition in the 
financial statements of the acquiree prior to the acquisition.

A contingent liability is not recognised but is disclosed where the existence of the obligation will only be confirmed by future events 
or where it is not probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation or where the amount of the obligation 
cannot be measured with reasonable reliability. Contingent assets are not recognised but are disclosed where an inflow of economic 
benefits is probable. 

Environmental Provisions
The Group’s waste management and recycling activities are subject to various laws and regulations governing the protection of the 
environment. Full provision is made for the net present value of the Group’s estimated costs in relation to restoration liabilities at its 
landfill sites. The net present value of the estimated costs is capitalised as property, plant and equipment and the unwinding of the 
discount element on the restoration provision is reflected in the Income Statement.

Finance Costs
Finance costs comprise interest payable on borrowings calculated using the effective interest rate method, gains and losses on 
hedging instruments that are recognised in the Income Statement and the unwinding of discounts on provisions. The interest expense 
component of finance lease payments is recognised in the Income Statement using the effective interest rate method. The finance cost 
on defined benefit pension scheme liabilities is recognised in the Income Statement in accordance with IAS 19.

Finance Income
Interest income is recognised in the Income Statement as it accrues, using the effective interest method. The expected return on 
defined benefit pension scheme assets is recognised in the Income Statement in accordance with IAS 19. 

Income Tax
Current tax
Current tax represents the expected tax payable or recoverable on the taxable profit for the year using tax rates enacted or substantively 
enacted at the balance sheet date and taking into account any adjustments stemming from prior years.

86

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Deferred tax
Deferred tax is provided using the liability method on all temporary differences at the balance sheet date which is defined as the 
difference between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial statements. Deferred tax assets 
and liabilities are not subject to discounting and are measured at the tax rates that have been enacted or substantially enacted by the 
balance sheet date in which the asset is realised or the liability is settled.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable temporary differences with the exception of the following:
(i) 

 where the deferred tax liability arises from the initial recognition of goodwill or the initial recognition of an asset or a liability in a 
transaction that is not a business combination and affects neither the accounting profit nor the taxable profit or loss at the time of 
the transaction; and

(ii)   where, in respect of taxable temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates, the 
timing of the reversal of the temporary difference is subject to control by the Group and it is probable that reversal will not occur in 
the foreseeable future.

Deferred tax assets are recognised in respect of all deductible temporary differences, carry-forward of unused tax credits and unused 
tax losses to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against which to offset these items except:
(i) 

 where the deferred tax asset arises from the initial recognition of an asset or a liability in a transaction that is not a business 
combination and affects neither the accounting profit nor the taxable profit or loss at the time of the transaction; and 

(ii)   where, in respect of deductible temporary differences associated with investment in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates, a 
deferred tax asset is recognised only if it is probable that the deductible temporary difference will reverse in the foreseeable future 
and that sufficient taxable profits will be available against which the temporary difference can be utilised.

The carrying amounts of deferred tax assets are reviewed at each balance sheet date and are reduced to the extent that it is no longer 
probable that sufficient taxable profits would be available to allow all or part of the deferred tax asset to be utilised.

Pension and other Post Employment Obligations
The Group operates defined contribution and defined benefit pension schemes.

The costs arising in respect of the Group’s defined contribution schemes are charged to the Income Statement in the period in which 
they are incurred. The Group has no legal or constructive obligation to pay further contributions after payment of fixed contributions.

The Group operates a number of defined benefit pension schemes which require contributions to be made to separately administered 
funds. The liabilities and costs associated with the Group’s defined benefit pension schemes are assessed on the basis of the projected 
unit credit method by professionally qualified actuaries and are arrived at using actuarial assumptions based on market expectations at 
the balance sheet date. The Group’s net obligation in respect of defined benefit pension schemes is calculated separately for each plan 
by estimating the amount of future benefits that employees have earned in return for their service in the current and prior periods. That 
benefit is discounted to determine its present value, and the fair value of any plan asset is deducted. Plan assets are measured at bid 
values.

The discount rate employed in determining the present value of the schemes’ liabilities is determined by reference to market yields at 
the balance sheet date on high quality corporate bonds of a currency and term consistent with the currency and term of the associated 
post-employment benefit obligations.

The net surplus or deficit arising in the Group’s defined benefit pension schemes are shown within either non-current assets or liabilities 
on the face of the Group Balance Sheet. The deferred tax impact of pension scheme surpluses and deficits is disclosed separately 
within deferred tax liabilities or assets as appropriate. In accordance with IAS 19 Employee Benefits the Group recognises actuarial 
gains and losses immediately in the Group Statement of Comprehensive Income.

When the benefits of a defined benefit plan are improved, the portion of the increased benefit relating to past service by employees is 
recognised as an expense in the Income Statement on a straight-line basis over the average period until the benefits become vested. To 
the extent that the benefits vest immediately, the expense is recognised immediately in the Income Statement.

Share-Based Payment Transactions
Employees (including Directors) of the Group receive remuneration in the form of share-based payment transactions, whereby 
employees render service in exchange for shares or rights over shares.

The fair value of share entitlements granted is recognised as an employee expense in the Income Statement with a corresponding 
increase in equity. The fair value at the grant date is determined using a Monte Carlo simulation technique for the DCC plc Long Term 
Incentive Plan 2009, a binomial model for the DCC plc 1998 Employee Share Option Scheme and the Black Scholes option valuation 
model for the DCC Sharesave Scheme. 

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

87

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
The DCC plc Long Term Incentive Plan 2009 contains market based vesting conditions and accordingly, the fair value assigned to the 
related equity instrument on initial application of IFRS 2 Share-based Payment is adjusted to reflect the anticipated likelihood at the 
grant date of achieving the market based vesting conditions.

The DCC plc 1998 Employee Share Option Scheme and the DCC Sharesave Scheme 2001 contain non-market based vesting 
conditions which are not taken into account when estimating the fair value of entitlements as at the grant date. The expense in the 
Income Statement represents the product of the total number of options anticipated to vest and the fair value of those options. This 
amount is allocated on a straight-line basis over the vesting period to the Income Statement with a corresponding credit to ‘Other 
Reserves - Share Options’. The cumulative charge to the Income Statement is only reversed where entitlements do not vest because 
non-market performance conditions have not been met or where an employee in receipt of share entitlements relinquishes service 
before the end of the vesting period.

The proceeds received by the Company on the exercise of share entitlements are credited to Share Capital (nominal value) and Share 
Premium when the share entitlements are exercised. When the share-based payments give rise to the re-issue of shares from treasury 
shares, the proceeds of issue are credited to shareholders equity. 

The measurement requirements of IFRS 2 have been implemented in respect of share options entitlements granted after 7 November 
2002. In accordance with the standard, the disclosure requirements of IFRS 2 have been applied to all outstanding share-based 
payments regardless of their grant date. The Group does not operate any cash-settled share-based payment schemes or share-based 
payment transactions with cash alternatives as defined in IFRS 2.

Government Grants
Grants are recognised at their fair value when there is a reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and all attaching conditions 
have been complied with.

Capital grants received and receivable by the Group are credited to government grants and are amortised to the Income Statement on a 
straight-line basis over the expected useful lives of the assets to which they relate.

Revenue grants are recognised as income over the periods necessary to match the grant on a systematic basis to the costs that it is 
intended to compensate.

Shareholders’ Equity
Treasury Shares
Where the Company purchases the Company’s equity share capital, the consideration paid is deducted from total shareholders’ equity 
and classified as treasury shares until they are cancelled. Where such shares are subsequently sold or reissued, any consideration 
received is included in total shareholders’ equity.

Dividends
Dividends on Ordinary Shares are recognised as a liability in the Group’s financial statements in the period in which they are approved by 
the shareholders of the Company. Proposed dividends that are approved after the balance sheet date are not recognised as a liability at 
that balance sheet date, but are disclosed in the dividends note.

2. Financial Risk Management
Financial Risk Factors
The Group uses derivative financial instruments (principally interest rate, currency and cross currency interest rate swaps and forward 
foreign exchange and commodity contracts) to hedge certain risk exposures, as detailed below, arising from operational, financing and 
investment activities. The Group does not trade in financial instruments nor does it enter into any leveraged derivative transactions. 

Financial risk management within the Group is governed by policies and guidelines reviewed and approved annually by the Board of 
Directors. These policies and guidelines primarily cover foreign exchange risk, commodity price risk, credit risk, liquidity risk and interest 
rate risk. Monitoring of compliance with the policies and guidelines is managed by the Group Risk Management function.

The Group’s financial risks are detailed in note 46.

Fair Value Estimation
The fair value of financial instruments traded in active markets is based on quoted market prices at the balance sheet date. The quoted 
market price used for financial assets held by the Group is the current bid price. 

88

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

2. Financial Risk Management (continued)
The fair value of financial instruments that are not traded in an active market (for example, over-the-counter derivatives) is determined 
by using valuation techniques. The Group uses a variety of techniques and makes assumptions that are based on market conditions 
existing at each balance sheet date. 

The fair value of interest rate and cross currency swaps is calculated as the present value of the estimated future cash flows. The fair 
value of forward foreign exchange contracts is determined using quoted forward exchange rates at the balance sheet date. The fair 
value of forward commodity contracts is determined using quoted forward commodity prices at the balance sheet date. The fair values 
of borrowings (none of which are listed) are measured by discounting cash flows at prevailing interest and exchange rates. 

The nominal value less impairment provision of trade receivables and payables approximate to their fair values, largely due to their short-
term maturities.

Fair values of the Group’s financial assets and financial liabilities are summarised in note 46.

3. Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgements
The Group’s main accounting policies affecting its results of operations and financial condition are set out on pages 80 to 88. In 
determining and applying accounting policies, judgement is often required in respect of items where the choice of specific policy, 
accounting estimate or assumption to be followed could materially affect the reported results or net asset position of the Group 
should it later be determined that a different choice would be more appropriate. Management considers the accounting estimates and 
assumptions discussed below to be its critical accounting estimates and judgements:

Goodwill
The Group has capitalised goodwill of €597.6 million at 31 March 2011. Goodwill is required to be tested for impairment at least 
annually or more frequently if changes in circumstances or the occurrence of events indicating potential impairment exist. The Group 
uses the present value of future cash flows to determine recoverable amount. In calculating the value in use, management judgement 
is required in forecasting cash flows of cash generating units, in determining terminal growth values and in selecting an appropriate 
discount rate. Sensitivities to changes in assumptions are detailed in note 20.

Post-Retirement Benefits
The Group operates a number of defined benefit retirement plans. The Group’s total obligation in respect of defined benefit plans is 
calculated by independent, qualified actuaries, updated at least annually and totals €103.0 million at 31 March 2011. At 31 March 2011 
the Group also has plan assets totalling €83.7 million, giving a net pension liability of €19.3 million. The size of the obligation is sensitive 
to actuarial assumptions. These include demographic assumptions covering mortality and longevity, and economic assumptions 
covering price inflation, benefit and salary increases together with the discount rate used. The size of the plan assets is also sensitive to 
asset return levels and the level of contributions from the Group. Sensitivities to changes in assumptions are detailed in note 32.

Taxation
The Group is subject to income taxes in a number of jurisdictions. Provisions for tax liabilities require management to make judgements 
and estimates in relation to tax issues and exposures. Amounts provided are based on management’s interpretation of country specific 
tax laws and the likelihood of settlement. Where the final tax outcome is different from the amounts that were initially recorded, such 
differences will impact the current tax and deferred tax provisions in the period in which such determination is made.

Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the unused 
tax losses and unused tax credits can be utilised. The Group estimates the most probable amount of future taxable profits, using 
assumptions consistent with those employed in impairment calculations, and taking into account applicable tax legislation in the relevant 
jurisdiction. These calculations require the use of estimates.

Business Combinations
Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method which requires that the assets and liabilities assumed are 
recorded at their respective fair values at the date of acquisition. The application of this method requires certain estimates and 
assumptions particularly concerning the determination of the fair values of the acquired assets and liabilities assumed at the date of 
acquisition. 

For intangible assets acquired, the Group bases valuations on expected future cash flows. This method employs a discounted cash flow 
analysis using the present value of the estimated after-tax cash flows expected to be generated from the purchased intangible asset 
using risk adjusted discount rates and revenue forecasts as appropriate. The period of expected cash flows is based on the expected 
useful life of the intangible asset acquired. 

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

89

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

3. Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgements (continued)
Provision for Impairment of Trade Receivables
The Group trades with a large and varied number of customers on credit terms. Some debts due will not be paid through the default of 
a small number of customers. The Group uses estimates based on historical experience and current information in determining the level 
of debts for which a provision for impairment is required. The level of provision required is reviewed on an ongoing basis.

Useful Lives for Property, Plant and Equipment and Intangible Assets
Long-lived assets comprising primarily of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets represent a significant portion of total 
assets. The annual depreciation and amortisation charge depends primarily on the estimated lives of each type of asset and, in certain 
circumstances, estimates of residual values. Management regularly review these useful lives and change them if necessary to reflect 
current conditions. In determining these useful lives management consider technological change, patterns of consumption, physical 
condition and expected economic utilisation of the assets. Changes in the useful lives can have a significant impact on the depreciation 
and amortisation charge for the period.

4. Segment Information
Analysis by operating segment and by geography
DCC is a sales, marketing, distribution and business support services group headquartered in Dublin, Ireland. Operating segments are 
reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision maker. The chief operating decision 
maker has been identified as Mr. Tommy Breen, Chief Executive. The Group is organised into five main operating segments: DCC 
Energy, DCC SerCom, DCC Healthcare, DCC Environmental and DCC Food & Beverage.

DCC Energy markets and sells oil products for commercial/industrial, transport and domestic use in Britain, Ireland and Continental 
Europe. DCC Energy markets and sells liquefied petroleum gas for similar uses in Britain and Ireland. DCC Energy also includes a fuel 
card services business.

DCC SerCom markets and sells a broad range of IT and consumer electronic products in Britain, Ireland and Continental Europe to 
computer resellers, high street retailers, computer superstores, on-line retailers and mail order companies. DCC SerCom also includes a 
supply chain management business.

DCC Healthcare markets and sells medical, surgical, laboratory and intravenous pharmaceutical products and provides related value 
added services to the acute care, community care and scientific sectors in Ireland and Britain. DCC Healthcare is also a provider of 
outsourced services to the health and beauty industry in Europe. 

DCC Environmental provides a broad range of waste management and recycling services to the industrial, commercial, construction 
and public sectors in Britain and Ireland.

DCC Food & Beverage markets and sells food and beverages in Ireland to a broad range of customers and wine in Britain. DCC Food 
& Beverage also has a frozen and chilled food distribution business in Ireland.

The chief operating decision maker monitors the operating results of segments separately in order to allocate resources between 
segments and to assess performance. Segment performance is predominantly evaluated based on operating profit before amortisation 
of intangible assets and net operating exceptional items. As performance is also evaluated based on return on capital employed, 
supplemental information on net tangible capital employed is also provided below. Net finance costs and income tax are managed on a 
centralised basis and therefore these items are not allocated between operating segments for the purpose of presenting information to 
the chief operating decision maker and accordingly are not included in the detailed segmental analysis below.

Intersegment revenue is not material and thus not subject to separate disclosure. 

90

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

4. Segment Information (continued)
The segment results for the year ended 31 March 2011 are as follows:

Income Statement items

Year ended 31 March 2011

DCC  
Energy 
€’000 

DCC 
SerCom 
€’000 

DCC 

DCC 
Healthcare  Environmental 
€’000 

€’000 

DCC Food
& Beverage 
€’000 

Total
€’000

Segment revenue 

  6,129,786  1,868,877 

323,291 

106,442 

252,177  8,680,573

Operating profit* 
Amortisation of intangible assets 
Net operating exceptionals (note 11) 

Operating profit 
Finance costs 
Finance income 
Share of associates’ loss after tax 
Profit before income tax 
Income tax expense 
Profit for the year 

137,307 
(7,145) 
(6,475) 

46,029 
(944) 
(2,120) 

23,203 
(800) 
(2,129) 

11,589 
(2,073) 
(6) 

11,492 
- 
(1,920) 

229,620
(10,962)
(12,650)

123,687 

42,965 

20,274 

9,510 

9,572 

206,008
(52,140)
35,939
(239)
189,568
(43,771)
145,797

* Operating profit before amortisation of intangible assets and net operating exceptionals

Year ended 31 March 2010

DCC  
Energy 
€’000 

DCC 
SerCom 
€’000 

DCC 

DCC 
Healthcare  Environmental 
€’000 

€’000 

DCC Food
& Beverage 
€’000 

Total
€’000

Segment revenue 

  4,420,122  1,618,455 

334,044 

77,366 

274,984  6,724,971

Operating profit* 
Amortisation of intangible assets 
Net operating exceptionals (note 11) 

Operating profit 
Finance costs 
Finance income 
Share of associates’ profit after tax 
Profit before income tax 
Income tax expense 
Profit for the year 

113,105 
(4,510) 
(4,195) 

40,835 
(318) 
(1,051) 

21,143 
(394) 
(897) 

9,297 
(799) 
- 

8,453 
(129) 
(3,621) 

192,833
(6,150)
(9,764)

104,400 

39,466 

19,852 

8,498 

4,703 

176,919
(35,585)
23,415
152
164,901
(33,207)
131,694

* Operating profit before amortisation of intangible assets and net operating exceptionals

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

91

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

4. Segment Information (continued)
Balance Sheet items

As at 31 March 2011

DCC  
Energy 
€’000 

DCC 
SerCom 
€’000 

DCC 

DCC 
Healthcare  Environmental 
€’000 

€’000 

DCC Food
& Beverage 
€’000 

Total
€’000

Segment assets 

  1,170,278 

674,449 

191,136 

151,474 

126,666  2,314,003

Reconciliation to total assets as reported in the Group Balance Sheet 
Investments in associates 
Derivative financial instruments (current and non-current) 
Deferred income tax assets 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Total assets as reported in the Group Balance Sheet 

2,281
87,938
9,328
700,340
  3,113,890

Segment liabilities 

666,423 

366,487 

61,102 

29,091 

63,256  1,186,359

Reconciliation to total liabilities as reported in the Group Balance Sheet 
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings (current and non-current) 
Derivative financial instruments (current and non-current) 
Income tax liabilities (current and deferred) 
Deferred and contingent acquisition consideration (current and non-current) 
Government grants (current and non-current) 
Total liabilities as reported in the Group Balance Sheet 

DCC  
Energy 
€’000 

DCC 
SerCom 
€’000 

802,786
30,675
84,861
74,344
2,991
  2,182,016

DCC Food
& Beverage 
€’000 

Total
€’000

As at 31 March 2010

DCC 

DCC 
Healthcare  Environmental 
€’000 

€’000 

Segment assets 

  1,062,927 

539,656 

231,622 

147,677 

128,221  2,110,103

Reconciliation to total assets as reported in the Group Balance Sheet 
Investments in associates 
Derivative financial instruments (current and non-current) 
Deferred income tax assets 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Total assets as reported in the Group Balance Sheet 

2,393
103,264
12,166
714,917
  2,942,843

Segment liabilities 

622,331 

294,337 

69,842 

26,622 

68,000  1,081,132

Reconciliation to total liabilities as reported in the Group Balance Sheet 
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings (current and non-current) 
Derivative financial instruments (current and non-current) 
Income tax liabilities (current and deferred) 
Deferred and contingent acquisition consideration (current and non-current) 
Government grants (current and non-current) 
Total liabilities as reported in the Group Balance Sheet   

851,832
19,888
95,178
54,209
3,678
  2,105,917

92

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

4. Segment Information (continued)
Net tangible capital employed
The denominator in the Group’s return on tangible capital employed calculations is the average of the Group’s opening and closing net 
tangible capital employed. The following tables provide an analysis of the net tangible capital employed positions at 31 March 2011 and 
31 March 2010.

As at 31 March 2011

DCC  
Energy 
€’000 

DCC 
SerCom 
€’000 

DCC 

DCC 
Healthcare  Environmental 
€’000 

€’000 

DCC Food
& Beverage 
€’000 

Total
€’000

Segment assets 
Intangible assets 
Deferred income tax assets 
Assets employed 

  1,170,278 
(336,191) 
2,122 
836,209 

674,449 
(113,672) 
3,319 
564,096 

191,136 
(87,526) 
2,211 
105,821 

151,474 
(64,252) 
234 
87,456 

126,666  2,314,003
(636,114)
(34,473) 
9,328
1,442 
93,635  1,687,217

Segment liabilities 
Income tax liabilities (current and deferred) 
Government grants 
Liabilities employed 

666,423 
29,852 
191 
696,466 

366,487 
28,636 
143 
395,266 

61,102 
11,068 
1,876 
74,046 

29,091 
9,968 
781 
39,840 

63,256  1,186,359
84,861
2,991
68,593  1,274,211

5,337 
- 

Net tangible capital employed 

139,743 

168,830 

31,775 

47,616 

25,042 

413,006

As at 31 March 2010

DCC  
Energy 
€’000 

DCC 
SerCom 
€’000 

DCC 

DCC 
Healthcare  Environmental 
€’000 

€’000 

DCC Food
& Beverage 
€’000 

Total
€’000

Segment assets 
Intangible assets 
Deferred income tax assets 
Assets employed 

  1,062,927 
(322,850) 
4,062 
744,139 

539,656 
(79,359) 
2,004 
462,301 

231,622 
(98,380) 
3,985 
137,227 

147,677 
(65,128) 
155 
82,704 

128,221  2,110,103
(595,090)
(29,373) 
12,166
1,960 
100,808  1,527,179

Segment liabilities 
Income tax liabilities (current and deferred) 
Government grants 
Liabilities employed 

622,331 
28,382 
300 
651,013 

294,337 
33,220 
137 
327,694 

69,842 
14,336 
2,526 
86,704 

26,622 
12,618 
715 
39,955 

68,000  1,081,132
95,178
3,678
74,622  1,179,988

6,622 
- 

Net tangible capital employed 

93,126 

134,607 

50,523 

42,749 

26,186 

347,191

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

93

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

4. Segment Information (continued)
Other segment information

Year ended 31 March 2011

DCC  
Energy 
€’000 

DCC 
SerCom 
€’000 

DCC 

DCC 
Healthcare  Environmental 
€’000 

€’000 

DCC Food
& Beverage 
€’000 

Total
€’000

Capital expenditure 

Depreciation 

44,645 

20,389 

4,910 

11,556 

2,523 

84,023

30,858 

5,141 

4,526 

8,427 

3,954 

52,906

Intangible assets acquired 

19,025 

35,230 

1,743 

797 

5,063 

61,858

Impairment of goodwill 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

-

Year ended 31 March 2010

DCC  
Energy 
€’000 

DCC 
SerCom 
€’000 

DCC 

DCC 
Healthcare  Environmental 
€’000 

€’000 

DCC Food
& Beverage 
€’000 

Total
€’000

Capital expenditure 

Depreciation 

23,097 

4,220 

11,643 

6,708 

1,261 

46,929

26,804 

4,101 

4,959 

6,599 

4,493 

46,956

Intangible assets acquired 

107,438 

6,279 

8,407 

26,358 

(57) 

148,425

Impairment of goodwill 

- 

- 

- 

- 

1,908 

1,908

Geographical analysis
The following is a geographical analysis of the segment information presented above. 

 Republic of Ireland 
2010 
2011 
€’000 
€’000 

UK 

2011 
€’000 

2010 
€’000 

Rest of the World 
2011 
€’000 

2010 
€’000 

Total

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

Year ended 31 March

Income Statement items 

Revenue 

919,966  1,107,364  6,388,742  4,748,268  1,371,865 

869,339  8,680,573  6,724,971

Operating profit* 
Amortisation of intangible assets 
Net operating exceptionals 
Segment result 

34,236 
(470) 
(3,076) 
30,690 

34,191 
(962) 
(3,175) 
30,054 

164,541 
(8,773) 
(8,582) 
147,186 

133,361 
(4,317) 
(5,429) 
123,615 

30,843 
(1,719) 
(992) 
28,132 

25,281 
(871) 
(1,160) 
23,250 

229,620 
(10,962) 
(12,650) 
206,008 

192,833
(6,150)
(9,764)
176,919

Balance Sheet items 

Segment assets 

393,223 

404,043  1,600,302  1,397,514 

320,478 

308,546  2,314,003  2,110,103

Segment liabilities 

177,859 

182,011 

778,365 

696,349 

230,135 

202,772  1,186,359  1,081,132

Other segment information 

Capital expenditure 

9,641 

9,245 

70,672 

34,213 

3,710 

3,471 

84,023 

46,929

Depreciation 

14,091 

15,385 

36,391 

30,145 

2,424 

1,426 

52,906 

46,956

Intangible assets acquired 

5,848 

10,363 

45,739 

106,281 

10,271 

31,781 

61,858 

148,425

Impairment of goodwill 

- 

- 

- 

1,908 

- 

- 

- 

1,908

* Operating profit before amortisation of intangible assets and net operating exceptionals

94

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

5. Other Operating Income/Expense

Other operating income and expense comprise the following credits/(charges): 

Other income 
Fair value gains on non-hedge accounted derivative financial instruments - commodities 
Fair value gains on non-hedge accounted derivative financial instruments - forward exchange contracts 
Throughput 
Haulage 
Rental income 
Other operating income 

Other expenses 
Expensing of employee share options (note 10) 
Fair value losses on non-hedge accounted derivative financial instruments - forward exchange contracts 
Other operating expenses 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

- 
206 
6,612 
7,139 
3,675 
7,791 
25,423 

(1,389) 
(742) 
(800) 
(2,931) 

300
-
2,751
2,444
1,968
2,240
9,703

(1,341)
(26)
(598)
(1,965)

6. Group Operating Profit
Group operating profit has been arrived at after charging/(crediting) the following amounts (including the Group’s share of joint ventures 
accounted for on the basis of proportionate consolidation):

Provision for impairment of trade receivables (note 46)   
Directors’ fees and salaries 
Amortisation of government grants (note 35) 
Operating lease rentals 
- land and buildings 
- plant and machinery 
- motor vehicles 

During the year the Group obtained the following services from the Group’s auditors (PricewaterhouseCoopers): 
Audit fees 
Acquisition related due diligence and litigation support   
Tax compliance and advisory services 

2011 
€’000 

5,317 
2,121 
(730) 

13,247 
873 
11,390 
25,510 

1,378 
58 
1,118 
2,554 

2010
€’000

8,946
2,063
(800)

12,665
717
11,017
24,399

1,487
326
1,507
3,320

Auditor statutory disclosure
The audit fee for the Parent Company is €20,000 (2010: €20,000). This amount is paid to PricewaterhouseCoopers, Ireland, the 
statutory auditor.

7. Directors’ Emoluments and Interests
Directors’ emoluments (which are included in operating costs) and interests are presented in the Report on Directors’ Remuneration and 
Interests on pages 62 to 68.

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

95

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

8. Proportionate Consolidation of Joint Ventures
Impact on Group Income Statement 
Year ended 31 March 
Group share of: 

Revenue 
Cost of sales 
Gross profit 
Operating costs 
Exceptional items 
Amortisation of intangible assets 
Operating profit 
Finance costs (net) 
Profit before income tax 
Income tax expense 
Profit for the financial year 

Impact on Group Balance Sheet 
As at 31 March 
Group share of: 

Non-current assets 
Current assets 
Total assets 

Total equity 
Non-current liabilities 
Current liabilities 
Total liabilities 
Total equity and liabilities 

Impact on Group Cash Flow Statement 
Year ended 31 March 
Group share of: 

Net cash flow from operating activities 
Net cash flow from investing activities 
Net cash flow from financing activities 
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 
Joint venture becoming a subsidiary 
Cash acquired on acquisition  
Translation adjustment 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 

Reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents to net cash 
Cash and cash equivalents as above 
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings (current and non-current) 
Net cash at 31 March 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

15,119 
(9,311) 
5,808 
(4,693) 
159 
- 
1,274 
(1) 
1,273 
(179) 
1,094 

33,635
(22,466)
11,169
(7,523)
(821)
(300)
2,525
(24)
2,501
(884)
1,617

2011 
€’000 

6,828 
3,171 
9,999 

6,508 
8 
3,483 
3,491 
9,999 

2011 
€’000 

1,000 
(536) 
- 
464 
- 
- 
- 
1,139 
1,603 

1,603 
- 
1,603 

2010
€’000

6,957
2,731
9,688

6,452
6
3,230
3,236
9,688

2010
€’000

4,356
(3,039)
(64)
1,253
(2,324)
65
107
2,038
1,139

1,139
-
1,139

The Group’s share of its joint ventures’ capital commitments for property, plant and equipment at 31 March 2011 is €0.371 million 
(2010: €0.415 million).

Details of the Group’s principal joint ventures are shown in the Group directory on pages 132 to 135. 

96

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

9. Employment
The average weekly number of persons (including executive Directors and the Group’s share of employees of joint ventures, applying 
proportionate consolidation) employed by the Group during the year analysed by class of business was:

DCC Energy 
DCC SerCom 
DCC Healthcare 
DCC Environmental 
DCC Food & Beverage 

The employee benefit expense (excluding termination payments - note 11) for the above were:   

Wages and salaries 
Social welfare costs 
Share based payment expense (note 10) 
Pension costs - defined contribution plans 
Pension costs - defined benefit plans (note 32) 

2011 
Number 

3,513 
1,554 
1,131 
759 
968 
7,925 

2011 
€’000 

2010
Number

3,098
1,421
1,324
550
1,003
7,396

2010
€’000

284,042 
32,132 
1,389 
6,884 
2,383 
326,830 

250,928
29,058
1,341
6,899
2,662
290,888

10. Employee Share Options
The Group’s employee share options are equity-settled share-based payments as defined in IFRS 2 Share-based Payment. The IFRS 
requires that a recognised valuation methodology be employed to determine the fair value of share options granted. The expense 
reported in the Income Statement of €1.389 million (2010: €1.341 million) has been arrived at by applying a Monte Carlo simulation 
technique for share awards issued under the DCC plc Long Term Incentive Plan 2009, a binomial model, which is a lattice option-pricing 
model, for options issued under the DCC plc 1998 Employee Share Option Scheme, and the Black Scholes option valuation model for 
options issued under the DCC Sharesave Scheme 2001.

Impact on Income Statement
In compliance with IFRS 2 Share-based Payment, the Group has implemented the measurement requirements of the IFRS in respect of 
share options that were granted after 7 November 2002 and had not vested by 1 April 2004.

The total share option expense is analysed as follows:

Date of grant 

DCC plc Long Term Incentive Plan 2009 
20 August 2009 
15 November 2010 

DCC Sharesave Scheme 2001 
10 December 2004 

Grant 
price 
€ 

15.63 
21.25 

Number of 
  share awards/ 
options 
granted 

Duration of 
vesting period 

Weighted 
average 
fair value 
€ 

Expense in
Income Statement
2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

3 years 
3 years 

255,406 
212,525 

8.97 
12.00 

742 
283 
1,025 

12.63 

3 and 5 years 

716,010 

4.67 

(161) 

DCC plc 1998 Employee Share Option Scheme 
12 November 2002 
18 May 2004 
9 November 2004 
15 December 2005 
23 June 2006 
23 July 2007 
20 December 2007 
20 May 2008 

10.38 
12.75 
15.65 
16.70 
18.05 
23.35 
19.50 
15.68 

3 and 5 years 
3 and 5 years 
3 and 5 years 
3 and 5 years 
3 years 
3 years 
3 years 
3 years 

609,500 
162,500 
219,500 
215,000 
223,500 
323,000 
25,000 
315,500 

2.81 
3.42 
4.15 
4.52 
4.54 
6.35 
5.22 
4.32 

Total expense 

(6) 
(7) 
- 
- 
(9) 
126 
33 
388 
525 
1,389 

439
-
439

90

(43)
(5)
18
(44)
13
435
44
394
812
1,341

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

97

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

10. Employee Share Options (continued)
Share options

DCC plc Long Term Incentive Plan 2009
At 31 March 2011, under the DCC plc Long Term Incentive Plan 2009, Group employees hold options to subscribe for 462,058 ordinary 
shares.

The general terms of the DCC plc Long Term Incentive Plan 2009 are set out in the Report on Directors’ Remuneration and Interests on 
pages 62 to 68.

 A summary of activity under the DCC plc Long Term Incentive Plan 2009 over the year is as follows:

At 1 April 
Granted 
Lapsed 
At 31 March 

2011 
Number of 
  share awards 

2010
Number of
share awards

251,887 
212,525 
(2,354) 
462,058 

-
255,406
(3,519)
251,887

The share awards outstanding at the year end have a weighted average remaining contractual life of 6.0 years (2010: 6.4 years).

The weighted average fair values assigned to share awards granted under the DCC plc Long Term Incentive Plan 2009, which were 
computed in accordance with the Monte Carlo valuation methodology, were as follows:

Granted during the year ended 31 March 2011 
Granted during the year ended 31 March 2010 

€
12.00
8.97

The fair values of share awards granted under the DCC plc Long Term Incentive Plan 2009 were determined taking account of peer 
group total share return volatilities and correlations together with the following assumptions:

Risk-free interest rate (%) 
Dividend yield (%) 
Expected volatility (%) 
Expected life in years 

2011 

1.91 
2.50 
30.0 
5.0 

2010

2.57
2.50
30.0
5.0

The expected volatility is based on historic volatility over the past 5 years. The expected life is the average expected period to exercise. 
The risk free rate of return is the yield on zero coupon government bonds of a term consistent with the assumed option life.

Analysis of closing balance - outstanding at end of year

Date of grant 

Date of expiry 

20 August 2009 
15 November 2010 
Total outstanding at 31 March 

20 August 2016 
15 November 2017   

2011 
Number of 
  share awards 

2010
Number of
share awards

249,533 
212,525 
462,058 

251,887
-
251,887

Analysis of closing balance - exercisable at end of year
As at 31 March 2011, none of the outstanding share awards under the DCC plc Long Term Incentive Plan 2009 were exercisable.

DCC plc 1998 Employee Share Option Scheme
At 31 March 2011, under the DCC plc 1998 Employee Share Option Scheme, Group employees hold basic tier options to subscribe for 
1,235,000 ordinary shares and second tier options to subscribe for 661,000 ordinary shares. 

The general terms of the DCC plc 1998 Employee Share Option Scheme are set out in the Report on Directors’ Remuneration and 
Interests on pages 62 to 68.

98

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

10. Employee Share Options (continued)
A summary of activity under the DCC plc 1998 Employee Share Option Scheme over the year is as follows:

At 1 April 
Exercised 
Lapsed 
At 31 March 

2011 

2010

Average 
exercise 
price in € 
per share 

Average 
exercise 
price in € 
per share 

Options 

Options

14.14  2,213,000 
(279,000) 
12.21 
(38,000) 
14.01 
14.42  1,896,000 

12.75  3,033,000
(718,500)
8.06 
(101,500)
15.76 
14.14  2,213,000

Total exercisable at 31 March 

16.44 

953,500 

12.58 

801,500

The weighted average share price at the dates of exercise for share options exercised during the year under the DCC plc 1998 
Employee Share Option Scheme was €20.15 (2010: €18.53). The share options outstanding at the year end have a weighted average 
remaining contractual life of 3.8 years (2010: 4.4 years).

Analysis of closing balance - outstanding at end of year

Date of grant 

Date of expiry 

16 May 2000 
21 November 2000 
13 November 2001 
12 November 2002 
22 December 2003 
18 May 2004 
9 November 2004 
15 December 2005 
23 June 2006 
23 July 2007 
20 December 2007 
20 May 2008 
Total outstanding at 31 March 

7 June 2010 
21 November 2010 
13 November 2011 
12 November 2012 
22 December 2013 
18 May 2014 
9 November 2014 
15 December 2015 
23 June 2016 
23 July 2017 
20 December 2017 
20 May 2018 

Analysis of closing balance - exercisable at end of year

Date of grant 

Date of expiry 

16 May 2000 
21 November 2000 
13 November 2001 
12 November 2002 
22 December 2003 
18 May 2004 
9 November 2004 
15 December 2005 
23 June 2006 
23 July 2007 
20 December 2007 
Total exercisable at 31 March 

7 June 2010 
21 November 2010 
13 November 2011 
12 November 2012 
22 December 2013 
18 May 2014 
9 November 2014 
15 December 2015 
23 June 2016 
23 July 2017 
20 December 2017 

2011 

2010

Exercise 
price in € 
per share 

Exercise 
price in € 
per share 

Options 

Options

- 
- 
10.25 
10.38 
10.70 
12.75 
15.65 
16.70 
18.05 
23.35 
19.50 
15.68 

- 
- 
395,500 
339,500 
84,000 
119,500 
140,500 
122,500 
162,000 
226,000 
25,000 
281,500 
  1,896,000 

10.65 
11.25 
10.25 
10.38 
10.70 
12.75 
15.65 
16.70 
18.05 
23.35 
19.50 
15.68 

25,000
128,500
431,500
350,000
114,000
133,000
160,500
143,500
177,500
232,000
25,000
292,500
  2,213,000

2011 

2010

Exercise 
price in € 
per share 

- 
- 
10.25 
10.38 
10.70 
12.75 
15.65 
16.70 
18.05 
23.35 
19.50 

Options 

- 
- 
173,000 
78,000 
16,500 
60,000 
90,500 
122,500 
162,000 
226,000 
25,000 
953,500 

Exercise 
price in € 
per share 

10.65 
11.25 
10.25 
10.38 
10.70 
12.75 
15.65 
16.70 
- 
- 
- 

Options

25,000
128,500
191,000
86,500
46,500
70,000
110,500
143,500
-
-
-
801,500

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

99

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

10. Employee Share Options (continued)
DCC Sharesave Scheme 2001
There are no remaining options to subscribe for ordinary shares under the DCC Sharesave Scheme 2001 (2010: Group employees held 
options to subscribe for 45,791 ordinary shares). Movements in the number of share options outstanding and their related weighted 
average exercise prices are as follows:

At 1 April 
Exercised 
Lapsed 
At 31 March 

2011 

2010

Average 
exercise 
price in € 
per share 

12.63 
12.63 
12.63 
- 

Average 
exercise 
price in € 
per share 

12.63 
12.63 
12.63 
12.63 

Options

223,398
(147,554)
(30,053)
45,791

Options 

45,791 
(33,432) 
(12,359) 
- 

The weighted average share price at the dates of exercise for share options exercised during the year under the DCC Sharesave 
Scheme 2001 was €19.21 (2010: €19.18). There were no share options outstanding at the year end (2010: share options outstanding 
at the year end had a weighted average remaining contractual life of 0.9 years).

Analysis of closing balance - outstanding at end of year

Date of grant 

10 December 2004 
Total outstanding at 31 March 

Date of expiry 

1 March 2011 

2011 

2010

Exercise 
price in € 
per share 

- 

Exercise 
price in € 
per share 

12.63 

Options 

- 
- 

Options

45,791
45,791

Analysis of closing balance - exercisable at end of year
As at 31 March 2011 there were no outstanding options under the DCC Sharesave Scheme 2001 (2010: 45,791 outstanding options 
were exercisable).

11. Exceptionals

Net profit on disposal of subsidiaries 
Cumulative foreign exchange translation losses relating to subsidiaries disposed of 
Restructuring of Group defined benefit pension schemes 
Impairment of property, plant and equipment 
Acquisition related fees 
Restructuring costs and other 
Impairment of goodwill 
Profit on disposal of associate 
Operating exceptional items 

Mark to market losses (included in interest) 
Net exceptional items before taxation 

Exceptional taxation charge 
Net exceptional items after taxation 

2011 
€’000 

894 
(3,145) 
4,976 
(6,074) 
(3,566) 
(5,735) 
- 
- 
(12,650) 

2010
€’000

-
-
-
-
-
(8,683)
(1,908)
827
(9,764)

(1,623) 
(14,273) 

(1,285)
(11,049)

(1,354) 
(15,627) 

-
(11,049)

During the first half of the financial year, DCC Healthcare disposed of its Mobility & Rehabilitation businesses and DCC Food & Beverage 
disposed of one of its smaller Irish businesses. The net cash impact of these transactions (€28.431 million) resulted in a pre-tax gain on 
their book carrying values, including goodwill, of €0.894 million. These businesses accounted for less than 1% of DCC’s operating profit 
for the year ended 31 March 2010. 

IAS 21 requires that any foreign exchange translation differences which have been written off directly to reserves in prior years be 
recycled through the Income Statement on the disposal of the related asset. The amount of such differences relating to the above 
disposals, which did not have any impact on the Group’s total equity, was €3.145 million. 

100

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

11. Exceptionals (continued)
Restructuring of certain of the Group’s pension arrangements during the year gave rise to a net reduction in pension liabilities and an 
exceptional gain of €4.976 million.

The Group made a provision of €6.074 million against the carrying value of one of its buildings.

IFRS 3 Revised requires that the professional (legal and financial due diligence) and tax costs (such as stamp duty) relating to the 
evaluation and completion of an acquisition are expensed in the Income Statement whereas previously they were capitalised as part of 
the acquisition cost. During the year these costs amounted to €3.566 million.

Most of the Group’s debt has been raised in the US Private Placement market and swapped, using long term interest, currency and 
cross currency derivatives, to floating rate sterling and euro. The level of ineffectiveness calculated under IAS 39 by marking to market 
swaps designated as fair value hedges and the related fixed rate debt, together with gains or losses arising from marking to market 
swaps not designated as fair value hedges offset by gains or losses on that related fixed rate debt, is charged or credited as an 
exceptional item. In the year to 31 March 2011 this amounted to a total exceptional charge of €1.623 million.

The balance of the net exceptional charge relates primarily to restructuring costs arising from the integration of recently acquired 
businesses. 

12. Finance Costs and Finance Income

Finance costs 
On bank loans, overdrafts and Unsecured Notes 
- repayable within 5 years, not by instalments 
- repayable within 5 years, by instalments 
- repayable wholly or partly in more than 5 years 
On loan notes 
- repayable within 5 years, not by instalments 
On finance leases 
Other interest 

Other finance costs: 
Interest on defined benefit pension scheme liabilities (note 32) 
Unwinding of discount applicable to deferred and contingent acquisition consideration (note 33) 
Mark-to-market of swaps and related debt* (note 11) 

Finance income 
Interest on cash and term deposits 
Net income on interest rate and currency swaps 
Other income receivable 
Expected return on defined benefit pension scheme assets (note 32 ) 

Net finance cost 

* Mark-to-market of swaps and related debt 
- interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges 
- cross currency interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges  
- adjusted hedged fixed rate debt 
- currency swaps not designated as hedges 

13. Foreign Currency
The exchange rates used in translating sterling Balance Sheets and Income Statement amounts were as follows:

Balance Sheet (closing rate) 
Income Statement (average rate) 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

(16,950) 
(87) 
(26,174) 

(30) 
(122) 
(861) 
(44,224) 

(5,347) 
(946) 
(1,623) 
(52,140) 

4,306 
26,813 
129 
4,691 
35,939 

(13,381)
(146)
(13,255)

(23)
(147)
(1,901)
(28,853)

(4,997)
(450)
(1,285)
(35,585)

3,537
16,317
105
3,456
23,415

(16,201) 

(12,170)

(986) 
(19,821) 
26,733 
(7,549) 
(1,623) 

(3,962)
(22,465)
27,066
(1,924)
(1,285)

2011 
€1=Stg£ 

2010
€1=Stg£

0.884 
0.852 

0.889
0.887

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

101

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

14. Share of Associates’ (Loss)/Profit after Tax
The Group’s share of associates’ (loss)/profit after tax is equity-accounted and is presented as a single line item in the Group Income 
Statement. The (loss)/profit after tax generated by the Group’s associates is analysed as follows: 

Group share of: 
Revenue 

(Loss)/profit before finance costs 
Finance costs (net) 
(Loss)/profit before income tax 
Income tax credit/(charge) 
(Loss)/profit after tax 

15. Income Tax Expense

(i) Income tax expense recognised in the Income Statement 

Current taxation 
Irish corporation tax at 12.5% 
Manufacturing relief 
Exceptional taxation charge (note 11) 
United Kingdom corporation tax at 28% 
Other overseas tax 
(Over)/under provision in respect of prior years 
Total current taxation 

Deferred tax 
Irish at 12.5% 
United Kingdom at 26%  
Other overseas deferred tax 
Under/(over) provision in respect of prior years 
Total deferred tax credit 

Total income tax expense 

(ii) Deferred tax recognised directly in Equity 

Defined benefit pension obligations 
Cash flow hedges 

(iii) Reconciliation of effective tax rate 

Profit on ordinary activities before taxation 
Share of associates’ profit after tax 
Amortisation of intangible assets 

Total income tax expense 
Deferred tax attaching to amortisation of intangible assets 

Taxation as a percentage of profit before share of associates’ 
(loss)/profit after tax, amortisation of intangible assets and net exceptionals 
Impact of net exceptionals 
Taxation as a percentage of profit before share of associates’ 
(loss)/profit after tax and amortisation of intangible assets 

102

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

10,977 

10,778

(225) 
(45) 
(270) 
31 
(239) 

203
(46)
157
(5)
152

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

4,395 
(113) 
1,354 
29,153 
9,444 
(401) 
43,832 

(3,329) 
1,797 
(1,140) 
2,611 
(61) 

9,097
(165)
-
15,332
7,778
3,870
35,912

(1,196)
3,321
85
(4,915)
(2,705)

43,771 

33,207

(336) 
341 
5 

(861)
107
(754)

189,568 
239 
10,962 
200,769 

164,901
(152)
6,150
170,899

43,771 
2,742 
46,513 

21.0% 
2.2% 

33,207
1,363
34,570

19.0%
1.2%

23.2% 

20.2%

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

15. Income Tax Expense (continued)
The following table relates the applicable Republic of Ireland statutory tax rate to the effective tax rate of the Group:

Irish corporation tax rate 
Manufacturing relief 
Effect of earnings taxed at different rates and other 

2011 
% 

12.5 
(0.1) 
10.8 
23.2 

2010
%

12.5
(0.1)
7.8
20.2

(iv) Factors that may affect future tax rates and other disclosures
No significant change is expected to the standard rate of corporation tax in the Republic of Ireland which is currently 12.5%. The 
standard rate of corporation tax in the UK reduced from 28% to 26% on 1 April 2011 and will reduce by a further 1% per annum up to 
April 2014 when the tax rate will be 23%.

No provision for tax has been recognised in respect of the unremitted earnings of subsidiaries as there is no commitment to remit 
earnings. Similarly, no deferred tax assets or liabilities have been recognised in respect of temporary differences associated with 
investments in subsidiaries.

16. Profit Attributable to DCC plc
Profit after taxation for the year attributable to equity shareholders amounting to €10.284 million (2010: €3.852 million) has been 
accounted for in the financial statements of the Company. In accordance with Section 148(8) of the Companies Act 1963, the Company 
is availing of the exemption from presenting its individual Income Statement to the Annual General Meeting. The Company has also 
availed of the exemption from filing its individual Income Statement with the Registrar of Companies as permitted by Section 7(1A) of the 
Companies (Amendment) Act 1986.

17. Dividends

Dividends paid per Ordinary Share are as follows: 

Final - paid 43.70 cent per share on 22 July 2010 
    (2010: paid 39.73 cent per share on 23 July 2009)    
Interim - paid 26.11 cent per share on 3 December 2010 
    (2010: paid 23.74 cent per share on 4 December 2009)  

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

36,296 

32,657

21,738 

19,526

58,034 

52,183

The Directors are proposing a final dividend in respect of the year ended 31 March 2011 of 48.07 cent per ordinary share (€40.051 
million). This proposed dividend is subject to approval by the shareholders at the Annual General Meeting.

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

103

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

18. Earnings per Ordinary Share

Profit attributable to owners of the Parent 
Amortisation of intangible assets after tax 
Exceptionals after tax (note 11) 
Adjusted profit after taxation and non-controlling interests 

Basic earnings per ordinary share 

Basic earnings per ordinary share 
Amortisation of intangible assets after tax 
Exceptionals after tax 
Adjusted basic earnings per ordinary share 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue (thousands) 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

145,109 
8,220 
15,627 
168,956 

130,803
4,787
11,049
146,639

2011 
cent 

2010
cent

174.48c 
9.88c 
18.79c 
203.15c 

158.76c
5.81c
13.41c
177.98c

83,167 

82,391

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the profit attributable to owners of the Parent by the weighted average number 
of ordinary shares in issue during the year, excluding ordinary shares purchased by the Company and held as treasury shares. The 
adjusted figures for basic earnings per ordinary share are intended to demonstrate the results of the Group after eliminating the impact 
of amortisation of intangible assets and net exceptionals.

Diluted earnings per ordinary share 

Diluted earnings per ordinary share 
Amortisation of intangible assets after tax 
Exceptionals after tax 
Adjusted diluted earnings per ordinary share 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue (thousands) 

2011 
cent 

2010
cent

173.90c 
9.85c 
18.73c 
202.48c 

157.92c
5.78c
13.34c
177.04c

83,445 

82,830

The earnings used for the purposes of the diluted earnings per share calculations were €145.109 million (2010: €130.803 million) and 
€168.956 million (2010: €146.639 million) for the purposes of the adjusted diluted earnings per share calculations.

The weighted average number of ordinary shares used in calculating the diluted earnings per share for the year ended 31 March 2011 
was 83.445 million (2010: 82.830 million). A reconciliation of the weighted average number of ordinary shares used for the purposes of 
calculating the diluted earnings per share amounts is as follows: 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue 
Dilutive effect of options 
Weighted average number of ordinary shares for diluted earnings per share 

2011 
‘000 

83,167 
278 
83,445 

2010
‘000

82,391
439
82,830

Diluted earnings per share is calculated by adjusting the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding to assume 
conversion of all dilutive potential ordinary shares. Share options are the Company’s only category of dilutive potential ordinary shares.

Employee share options, which are performance-based, are treated as contingently issuable shares because their issue is contingent 
upon satisfaction of specified performance conditions in addition to the passage of time. These contingently issuable shares are 
excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per ordinary share where the conditions governing exercisability have not been 
satisfied as at the end of the reporting period. 

The adjusted figures for diluted earnings per ordinary share are intended to demonstrate the results of the Group after eliminating the 
impact of amortisation of intangible assets and net exceptionals.

104

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

19. Property, Plant and Equipment

Group 

Year ended 31 March 2011 
Opening net book amount 
Exchange differences 
Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 45) 
Disposal of subsidiaries 
Additions 
Disposals 
Depreciation charge 
Impairment charge (note 11) 
Reclassifications 
Closing net book amount 

At 31 March 2011 
Cost 
Accumulated depreciation 
Net book amount 

Year ended 31 March 2010 
Opening net book amount 
Exchange differences 
Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 45) 
Additions 
Disposals 
Depreciation charge 
Reclassifications 
Closing net book amount 

At 31 March 2010 
Cost 
Accumulated depreciation 
Net book amount 

Land & 
buildings 
€’000 

Plant & 
machinery 
& cylinders 
€’000 

Fixtures & 
fittings & 
office 
equipment 
€’000 

Motor 
vehicles 
€’000 

Total
€’000

138,740 
(134) 
1,281 
(3,445) 
15,929 
(783) 
(3,097) 
(5,401) 
2,272 
145,362 

138,665 
(54) 
13,778 
(719) 
28,984 
(1,583) 
(25,036) 
(673) 
(2,382) 
150,980 

27,751 
(125) 
6,378 
(383) 
12,332 
(325) 
(9,849) 
- 
184 
35,963 

52,940 
(60) 
1,271 
(674) 
26,778 
(2,077) 
(14,924) 
- 
(74) 
63,180 

358,096
(373)
22,708
(5,221)
84,023
(4,768)
(52,906)
(6,074)
-
395,485

173,732 
(28,370) 
145,362 

392,678 
(241,698) 
150,980 

106,014 
(70,051) 
35,963 

135,954 
(72,774) 
63,180 

808,378
(412,893)
395,485

118,352 
2,657 
18,539 
3,661 
(1,926) 
(2,564) 
21 
138,740 

119,924 
3,894 
8,929 
30,580 
(2,631) 
(21,353) 
(678) 
138,665 

29,364 
901 
800 
7,033 
(884) 
(9,642) 
179 
27,751 

51,661 
2,031 
10,264 
5,655 
(3,752) 
(13,397) 
478 
52,940 

319,301
9,483
38,532
46,929
(9,193)
(46,956)
-
358,096

159,466 
(20,726) 
138,740 

362,245 
(223,580) 
138,665 

91,022 
(63,271) 
27,751 

124,548 
(71,608) 
52,940 

737,281
(379,185)
358,096

Assets held under finance leases
The net carrying amount and the depreciation charge during the year in respect of assets held under finance leases and accordingly 
capitalised in property, plant and equipment are as follows:

Cost 
Accumulated depreciation 
Net book amount 

Depreciation charge for the year 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

54,712 
(53,215) 
1,497 

55,712
(52,784)
2,928

607 

1,119

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

105

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

20. Intangible Assets

Group 

Year ended 31 March 2011 
Opening net book amount 
Exchange differences 
Arising on acquisition (note 45) 
Disposal of subsidiaries 
Other movements (note 33) 
Amortisation charge 
Closing net book amount 

At 31 March 2011 
Cost 
Accumulated amortisation 
Net book amount 

Year ended 31 March 2010 
Opening net book amount 
Exchange differences 
Arising on acquisition (note 45) 
Revisions to prior year acquisitions 
Impairment charge 
Amortisation charge 
Closing net book amount 

At 31 March 2010 
Cost 
Accumulated amortisation 
Net book amount 

Goodwill 
€’000 

Customer 
relationships 
€’000 

Total
€’000

561,077 
2,170 
46,783 
(9,394) 
(3,039) 
- 
597,597 

34,013 
391 
15,075 
- 
- 
(10,962) 
38,517 

595,090
2,561
61,858
(9,394)
(3,039)
(10,962)
636,114

624,397 
(26,800) 
597,597 

81,143 
(42,626) 
38,517 

705,540
(69,426)
636,114

429,299 
11,012 
123,094 
(420) 
(1,908) 
- 
561,077 

13,889 
943 
25,331 
- 
- 
(6,150) 
34,013 

443,188
11,955
148,425
(420)
(1,908)
(6,150)
595,090

588,695 
(27,618) 
561,077 

66,687 
(32,674) 
34,013 

655,382
(60,292)
595,090

Goodwill acquired in business combinations is allocated, at acquisition, to the cash-generating units (CGUs) that are expected to benefit 
from that business combination. A summary of the allocation of the carrying value of goodwill by segment is as follows:

DCC Energy 
DCC SerCom 
DCC Healthcare 
DCC Environmental 
DCC Food & Beverage 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

312,460 
105,003 
86,296 
63,865 
29,973 
597,597 

294,850
77,719
96,378
62,757
29,373
561,077

In accordance with IAS 36 Impairment of Assets, the cash generating units to which significant amounts of goodwill have been allocated 
are as follows:

GB Oils Group 
Fannin Healthcare Group 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

214,120 
68,924 

197,556
71,845

Impairment testing of goodwill
Goodwill acquired through business combinations has been allocated to CGUs for the purpose of impairment testing. Goodwill is tested 
for impairment by review of profit and cash flow forecasts and budgets.

The CGUs represent the lowest level within the Group at which the associated goodwill is monitored for management purposes and are 
not larger than the operating segments determined in accordance with IFRS 8 Operating Segments.

106

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

20. Intangible Assets (continued) 
The recoverable amount of each CGU is based on a value in use computation. The cash flow forecasts employed for this computation 
are extracted from a three year plan and specifically exclude future acquisition activity. Cash flows for a further two years are based on 
the assumptions underlying the three year plan. A terminal value reflecting inflation (2011: 2.5%; 2010: 2.5%) is applied to the year five 
cash flows. A present value of the future cash flows is calculated using a before-tax discount rate representing the Group’s estimated 
before-tax average cost of capital (2011: 8.0%; 2010: 8.0%). Applying these techniques, no impairment charge arose in 2011 (2010: 
€1.908 million). 

Key assumptions include management’s estimates of future profitability, capital expenditure requirements, working capital investment 
and tax considerations. Forecasts are generally based on historical performance together with management’s expectation of future 
trends affecting the industry and other developments and initiatives in the business.

Sensitivity analysis was performed using a discount rate of 10.0% and a terminal growth rate of 1.5% and resulted in an excess in 
the recoverable amount of all CGUs over their carrying amount. Management believes that any reasonable change in any of the key 
assumptions would not cause the carrying value of goodwill to exceed the recoverable amount.

21. Investments in Associates

At 1 April 
Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 45) 
Share of (loss)/profit less dividends 
Exchange adjustments and other 
At 31 March 

2011 
€’000 

2,393 
127 
(239) 
- 
2,281 

Investments in associates at 31 March 2011 includes goodwill of €0.534 million (2010: €0.534 million).

The Group’s geographical share of the assets (including goodwill) and liabilities of its associates is as follows:

As at 31 March 2011 
Ireland 
France 

As at 31 March 2010 
Ireland 
France 

  Non-current 
assets 
€’000 

Current  Non-current 
liabilities 
€’000 

assets 
€’000 

Current 
liabilities 
€’000 

787 
7 
794 

873 
- 
873 

3,338 
769 
4,107 

3,351 
- 
3,351 

(1,808) 
(534) 
(2,342) 

(1,609) 
- 
(1,609) 

(148) 
(130) 
(278) 

(222) 
- 
(222) 

2010
€’000

2,208
-
152
33
2,393

Net
assets
€’000

2,169
112
2,281

2,393
-
2,393

Details of the Group’s associates are as follows:

Name and Registered Office 

Nature of Business 

% Shareholding 

Relevant Share Capital

John Hinde International Limited, 
IDA Business Park, Southern Cross Road, 
Bray, Co Wicklow. 

Sale of tourism, gift and 
novelty products.

32.6% 

10,726 ordinary shares of €1.25 each.

Lee Oil (Cork) Limited,  
Clonminam Industrial Estate, Portlaoise,
Co Laois. 

SAS Blue Stork Industry 
300, rue du Président Salvador Allende, 
92700 Colombes, France. 

Company 

At 31 March 

Sale and distribution of oil products. 

50.0% 

100 ordinary shares of €1.26 each.

Sales and distribution of computer 
hardware, software and peripherals.

20.0% 

740 ordinary shares of €10 each.

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

1,244 

1,244

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

107

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

22. Investments in Subsidiary Undertakings

Company 

At 1 April 
Additions 
At 31 March 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

168,065 
- 
168,065 

161,065
7,000
168,065

Details of the Group’s principal operating subsidiaries are shown on pages 132 to 135. Non-wholly owned subsidiaries comprises DCC 
Environmental Britain Limited (70%) (which owns 100% of Wastecycle Limited and William Tracey Limited) where put and call options exist 
to acquire the remaining 30%, Comtrade SA (74%) where a deferred purchase agreement is in place to acquire the remaining 26% and 
Virtus Limited (51%).

The Group’s principal overseas holding company subsidiaries are DCC Limited, a company operating, incorporated and registered 
in England and Wales and DCC International Holdings B.V., a company operating, incorporated and registered in The Netherlands. 
The registered office of DCC Limited is at Hill House, 1 Little New Street, London EC4A 3TR, England. The registered office of DCC 
International Holdings B.V. is Teleport Boulevard 140, 1043 EJ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

23. Inventories

Group 

Raw materials 
Work in progress 
Finished goods 

24. Trade and Other Receivables

Group 

Trade receivables 
Provision for impairment of trade receivables (note 46)   
Prepayments and accrued income 
Value added tax recoverable 
Other debtors 

Company 

Amounts owed by subsidiary undertakings 
Prepayments and accrued income 
Value added tax recoverable 

25. Trade and Other Payables

Group 

Trade payables 
Other creditors and accruals 
PAYE and National Insurance 
Value added tax 
Government grants (note 35) 
Interest payable 
Amounts due in respect of property, plant and equipment 

Company 

Amounts due to subsidiary undertakings 
Other creditors and accruals 

108

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

9,601 
1,842 
236,686 
248,129 

9,073
2,047
223,778
234,898

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

979,553 
(31,202) 
43,708 
19,410 
22,806 
  1,034,275 

877,575
(30,590)
47,156
10,464
17,414
922,019

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

414,312 
2 
- 
414,314 

421,444
1
17
421,462

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

934,004 
156,628 
15,240 
38,142 
127 
4,950 
695 

852,794
139,706
11,744
31,167
175
4,002
53
  1,149,786  1,039,641

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

315,322 
1,128 
316,450 

284,734
1,151
285,885

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

26. Movement in Working Capital

Group 

Year ended 31 March 2011 
At 1 April 2010 
Translation adjustment 
Arising on acquisition (note 45) 
Disposal of subsidiaries 
Exceptional items, interest accruals and other 
Increase/(decrease) in working capital (note 41) 
At 31 March 2011 

Year ended 31 March 2010 
At 1 April 2009 
Translation adjustment 
Arising on acquisition (note 45) 
Exceptional items, interest accruals and other 
Increase/(decrease) in working capital (note 41) 
At 31 March 2010 

Company 

Year ended 31 March 2011 
At 1 April 2010 
Decrease in working capital (note 41) 
At 31 March 2011 

Year ended 31 March 2010 
At 1 April 2009 
Decrease in working capital (note 41) 
At 31 March 2010 

27. Cash and Cash Equivalents

Group 

Cash at bank and in hand 
Short-term bank deposits 

Trade 
and other 
receivables 
€’000 

Trade 
and other 
payables 
€’000 

Inventories 
€’000 

Total
€’000

234,898 
926 
19,214 
(11,578) 
- 
4,669 

922,019 
1,130 
47,272 
(12,147) 
439 
75,562 
248,129  1,034,275 

(1,039,641) 
(2,202) 
(44,224) 
7,436 
(1,792) 
(69,363) 
(1,149,786) 

117,276
(146)
22,262
(16,289)
(1,353)
10,868
132,618

208,759 
6,131 
9,917 
(959) 
11,050 
234,898 

672,782 
21,462 
86,765 
477 
140,533 
922,019 

(696,294) 
(20,908) 
(102,869) 
3,827 
(223,397) 
(1,039,641) 

185,247
6,685
(6,187)
3,345
(71,814)
117,276

Trade 
and other 
receivables 
€’000 

Trade 
and other 
payables 
€’000 

Total
€’000

421,462 
(7,148) 
414,314 

(296,272) 
(30,565) 
(326,837) 

125,190
(37,713)
87,477

452,817 
(31,355) 
421,462 

(274,536) 
(21,736) 
(296,272) 

178,281
(53,091)
125,190

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

185,106 
515,234 
700,340 

178,746
536,171
714,917

Cash at bank earns interest at floating rates based on daily bank deposit rates. The short-term deposits are for periods up to three 
months and earn interest at the respective short-term deposit rates.

Cash and cash equivalents include the following for the purposes of the Group Cash Flow Statement:

Cash and short-term bank deposits 
Bank overdrafts 

Bank overdrafts are included within current borrowings (note 29) in the Group Balance Sheet.

Company 

Cash at bank and in hand 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

700,340 
(34,212) 
666,128 

714,917
(39,956)
674,961

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

30 

6,232

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

109

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

28. Derivative Financial Instruments

Group 

Non-current assets 
Interest rate swaps - fair value hedges 
Cross currency interest rate swaps - fair value hedges   

Current assets 
Forward contracts - cash flow hedges 
Commodity contracts - cash flow hedges 
Commodity contracts - fair value hedges 
Forward contracts - not designated as hedges 
Commodity contracts - not designated as hedges 

Total assets 

Non-current liabilities 
Currency swaps - not designated as hedges 
Cross currency interest rate swaps - fair value hedges   
Interest rate swaps - fair value hedges 

Current liabilities 
Forward contracts - cash flow hedges 
Commodity contracts - cash flow hedges 
Forward contracts - not designated as hedges 

Total liabilities 
Net asset arising on derivative financial instruments 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

19,778 
64,598 
84,376 

161 
3,076 
319 
6 
- 
3,562 
87,938 

(26,845) 
(2,875) 
(422) 
(30,142) 

(375) 
(38) 
(120) 
(533) 
(30,675) 
57,263 

20,343
81,578
101,921

38
137
-
409
759
1,343
103,264

(19,296)
(34)
(1)
(19,331)

(231)
(293)
(33)
(557)
(19,888)
83,376

The full fair value of a hedging derivative is classified as a non-current asset or liability if the remaining maturity of the hedged item is 
more than twelve months and as a current asset or liability if the maturity of the hedged item is less than twelve months.

Interest rate swaps
The notional principal amounts of the outstanding interest rate swap contracts designated as fair value hedges under IAS 39 at 31 
March 2011 total US$200.0 million, Stg£55.0 million and €20.0 million. At 31 March 2011, the fixed interest rates vary from 4.58% to 
6.18% and the floating rates are based on US$ LIBOR, sterling LIBOR and EURIBOR.

Currency swaps
The Group utilises currency swaps in conjunction with interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges (as noted above) to swap 
fixed rate US$ denominated debt into floating rate euro debt. The currency swaps (which swap floating US$ denominated debt based 
on US$ LIBOR into floating euro denominated debt based on EURIBOR) have notional principal amounts of US$200.0 million/€167.113 
million and are not designated as hedges under IAS 39.

Cross currency interest rate swaps
The Group utilises cross currency interest rate swaps to swap fixed rate US$ denominated debt of US$683.0 million into floating rate 
sterling debt of Stg£306.967 million and floating rate euro debt of €110.051 million. At 31 March 2011 the fixed interest rates vary from 
4.37% to 6.19%. These swaps are designated as fair value hedges under IAS 39.

Forward foreign exchange contracts
The notional principal amounts of outstanding forward foreign exchange contracts at 31 March 2011 total €33.841 million (2010: 
€25.283 million). Gains and losses recognised in the cash flow hedge reserve in equity (note 38) at 31 March 2011 on forward foreign 
exchange contracts designated as cash flow hedges under IAS 39 will be released to the Income Statement at various dates up to 
twelve months after the balance sheet date.

Commodity price forward contracts
The notional principal amounts of outstanding forward commodity contracts at 31 March 2011 total €12.879 million (2010: €3.535 
million). Gains and losses recognised in the cash flow hedge reserve in equity (note 38) at 31 March 2011 on forward commodity 
contracts designated as cash flow hedges under IAS 39 will be released to the Income Statement at various dates up to twelve months 
after the balance sheet date.

110

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

29. Borrowings

Group 

Non-current 
Bank borrowings 
Finance leases* 
Unsecured Notes due 2013 to 2022 

Current 
Bank borrowings 
Finance leases* 
Loan notes 
Unsecured Notes due 2011 

Total borrowings 

*Secured on specific plant and equipment 

The maturity of non-current borrowings is as follows: 

Between 1 and 2 years 
Between 2 and 5 years 
Over 5 years 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

350 
413 
761,481 
762,244 

34,668 
475 
120 
5,279 
40,542 
802,786 

1,776
732
791,155
793,663

47,318
1,341
9,510
-
58,169
851,832

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

317 
297,940 
463,987 
762,244 

6,503
293,301
493,859
793,663

Bank borrowings, finance leases and loan notes
Interest on bank borrowings, finance leases and loan notes is at floating rates set in advance for periods ranging from overnight to six 
months by reference to inter-bank interest rates (EURIBOR, sterling LIBOR and US$ LIBOR) and consequently fair value approximates 
carrying amounts.

The Group had various bank borrowing facilities available at 31 March 2011.

Unsecured Notes due 2011 to 2022
The Group’s Unsecured Notes due 2011 to 2022 is comprised of fixed rate debt of US$7.5 million issued in 1996 and maturing in 
2011 (the ‘2011 Notes’), fixed rate debt of US$200.0 million and Stg£30.0 million issued in 2004 and maturing in 2014 and 2016 (the 
‘2014/16 Notes’), fixed rate debt of US$200.0 million and Stg£25.0 million issued in 2007 and maturing in 2017 and 2019 (the ‘2017/19 
Notes’), fixed rate debt of US$120.0 million issued in 2008 and maturing in 2013 and 2015 (the ‘2013/15 Notes’) and fixed rate debt of 
US$363.0 million and €20.0 million issued in 2010 and maturing in 2015, 2017, 2020 and 2022 (the ‘2015/17/20/22 Notes’). 

The 2013/15 Notes which are all denominated in US$ have been swapped (using cross currency interest rate swaps designated as fair 
value hedges under IAS 39) from fixed US$ to floating sterling rates, repricing quarterly based on sterling LIBOR.

The 2014/16 Notes denominated in US$ have been swapped from fixed to floating US$ rates (using interest rate swaps designated as 
fair value hedges under IAS 39) and further swapped (using currency swaps not designated as hedges under IAS 39) from floating US$ 
to floating euro rates, repricing semi-annually based on EURIBOR. The 2014/16 Notes denominated in sterling have been swapped 
from fixed to floating sterling rates (using an interest rate swap designated as a fair value hedge under IAS 39), repricing semi-annually 
based on sterling LIBOR. 

The 2017/19 Notes denominated in US$ have been swapped (using cross currency interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges 
under IAS 39) from fixed US$ to floating sterling rates, repricing quarterly based on sterling LIBOR. The 2017/19 Notes denominated in 
sterling have been swapped from fixed to floating sterling rates (using an interest rate swap designated as a fair value hedge under IAS 
39), repricing quarterly based on sterling LIBOR.

Of the 2015/17/20/22 Notes denominated in US$, $213.0 million has been swapped (using cross currency interest rate swaps 
designated as fair value hedges under IAS 39) from fixed US$ to floating sterling rates, repricing quarterly based on sterling LIBOR and 
$150.0 million has been swapped (using cross currency interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges under IAS 39) from fixed 
US$ to floating euro rates, repricing quarterly based on EURIBOR. The 2015/17/20/22 Notes denominated in euro have been swapped 
from fixed to floating euro rates (using an interest rate swap designated as a fair value hedge under IAS 39), repricing quarterly based on 
EURIBOR.

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

111

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

29. Borrowings (continued)
The maturity and interest profile of the Unsecured Notes is as follows:

Average maturity 

Average fixed interest rates* 
- US$ denominated 
- sterling denominated 
- euro denominated 

Average floating rate including swaps 
- sterling denominated  
- euro denominated 

* Issued and repayable at par

2011 

2010

6.0 years 

7.0 years

5.56% 
5.95% 
4.58% 

5.56%
5.95%
4.58%

2.08% 
2.24% 

1.94%
2.02%

30. Analysis of Net Debt
Reconciliation of opening to closing net debt 
The reconciliation of opening to closing net debt for the year ended 31 March 2011 is as follows:

Cash and short term bank deposits 
Overdrafts 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Bank loans and loan notes 
Finance leases 
Unsecured Notes due 2011 to 2022 
Derivative financial instruments (net) 
Group net debt (including share of net cash in joint ventures) 
Group net debt (excluding share of net cash in joint ventures) 

At 1 
April 2010 
€’000 

Cash flow 
€’000 

Fair value 
adjustment 
€’000 

At 31
Translation 
adjustment  March 2011
€’000

€’000 

714,917 
(39,956) 
674,961 
(18,648) 
(2,073) 
(791,155) 
83,376 
(53,539) 
(54,678) 

(17,536) 
6,151 
(11,385) 
18,168 
1,234 
- 
2,331 
10,348 
9,884 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
26,733 
(28,356) 
(1,623) 
(1,623) 

2,959 
(407) 
2,552 
(446) 
(49) 
(2,338) 
(88) 
(369) 
(369) 

700,340
(34,212)
666,128
(926)
(888)
(766,760)
57,263
(45,183)
(46,786)

The reconciliation of opening to closing net debt for the year ended 31 March 2010 is as follows:

Cash and short term bank deposits 
Overdrafts 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Bank loans and loan notes 
Finance leases 
Unsecured Notes due 2011 to 2022 
Derivative financial instruments (net) 
Group net debt (including share of net cash in joint ventures) 
Group net debt (excluding share of net cash in joint ventures) 

Currency profile
The currency profile of net debt at 31 March 2011 is as follows:

Cash and cash equivalents  
Borrowings 
Derivatives 

At 1 
April 2009 
€’000 

426,789 
(51,272) 
375,517 
(50,614) 
(1,599) 
(523,577) 
109,603 
(90,670) 
(92,647) 

Cash flow 
€’000 

276,773 
12,428 
289,201 
31,886 
(417) 
(284,031) 
2,001 
38,640 
39,582 

Fair value 
adjustment 
€’000 

Translation 
adjustment 
€’000 

At 31
March 2010
€’000

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
27,066 
(28,351) 
(1,285) 
(1,285) 

11,355 
(1,112) 
10,243 
80 
(57) 
(10,613) 
123 
(224) 
(328) 

714,917
(39,956)
674,961
(18,648)
(2,073)
(791,155)
83,376
(53,539)
(54,678)

Euro 
€’000 

Sterling 
€’000 

US Dollar 
€’000 

199,599 
(287,803) 
(16,073) 
(104,277) 

482,660 
(509,523) 
71,732 
44,869 

17,708 
(5,460) 
1,604 
13,852 

Other 
€’000 

373 
- 
- 
373 

Total
€’000

700,340
(802,786)
57,263
(45,183)

112

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

30. Analysis of Net Debt (continued)
The currency profile of net debt at 31 March 2010 is as follows:

Cash and cash equivalents  
Borrowings 
Derivatives 

Euro 
€’000 

Sterling 
€’000 

US Dollar 
€’000 

Other 
€’000 

Total
€’000

198,437 
(305,228) 
(6,028) 
(112,819) 

500,337 
(538,923) 
88,398 
49,812 

14,885 
(5,732) 
1,006 
10,159 

1,258 
(1,949) 
- 
(691) 

714,917
(851,832)
83,376
(53,539)

Interest rate profile
Cash and cash equivalents at 31 March 2011 and 31 March 2010 have maturity periods up to three months (note 27).

Bank borrowings are at floating interest rates for periods less than six months while the Group’s Unsecured Notes due 2013 to 2022 
have been swapped to floating rates which reset on a quarterly or semi-annual basis (note 29). The Group’s Unsecured Notes due 2011 
are at a fixed US Dollar rate and the majority of finance leases are at fixed rates.

31. Deferred Income Tax
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets against current 
tax liabilities and when the deferred income taxes relate to the same fiscal authority. The offset amounts are as follows:

Group 

Deferred income tax assets (deductible temporary differences): 
Deficits on Group defined benefit pension obligations 
Employee share options 
Other deductible temporary differences 

Deferred income tax liabilities (taxable temporary differences): 
Accelerated tax depreciation and fair value adjustments arising on acquisition 
Rolled-over capital gains 

The gross movement on the deferred income tax account is as follows: 

At 1 April 
Exchange differences 
Arising on acquisition 
Disposal of subsidiaries 
Income Statement credit (note 15) 
Tax recognised directly in equity (note 15) 
At 31 March 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

3,180 
515 
5,633 
9,328 

25,224 
210 
25,434 

3,961
515
7,690
12,166

23,266
213
23,479

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

11,313 
(248) 
4,536 
561 
(61) 
5 
16,106 

6,392
(348)
8,728
-
(2,705)
(754)
11,313

32. Retirement Benefit Obligations
Group
The Group operates defined benefit and defined contribution schemes. The pension scheme assets are held in separate trustee 
administered funds.

The Group operates eight defined benefit pension schemes in the Republic of Ireland and three in the UK. The projected unit credit 
method has been employed in determining the present value of the defined benefit obligation arising, the related current service cost 
and, where applicable, past service cost.

Full actuarial valuations were carried out between 1 April 2007 and 1 May 2010. In general, actuarial valuations are not available for 
public inspection, although the results of valuations are advised to the members of the various pension schemes. Actuarial valuations 
have been updated to 31 March 2011 for IAS 19 by a qualified actuary. 

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

113

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

32. Retirement Benefit Obligations (continued)
The principal actuarial assumptions used were as follows:

2011 

2010

Republic of Ireland schemes 
Rate of increase in salaries 
Rate of increase in pensions in payment 
Discount rate 
Inflation assumption 

UK schemes 
Rate of increase in salaries 
Rate of increase in pensions in payment 
Discount rate 
Inflation assumption 

The expected long term rates of return on the assets of the schemes were as follows:

Republic of Ireland schemes 
Equities 
Bonds 
Property 
Cash 

UK schemes 
Equities 
Bonds 
Property 
Cash 

2.25% - 4.00% 
0.00% - 3.00% 
5.50% 
2.25% 

3.60% - 4.60% 
3.60% 
5.45% 
3.60% 

2011 

7.25% 
3.75% 
5.75% 
2.00% 

7.85% 
4.35% 
6.85% 
0.50% 

4.00%
2.00% - 3.00%
5.40%
2.00%

4.65%
3.65%
5.55%
3.65%

2010

7.50%
4.00%
6.00%
2.00%

8.05%
4.55%
7.05%
0.50%

The expected rate of return for equities and property has been calculated assuming that equities and property will outperform bonds 
by 3.5% and 2.0% per annum respectively over the long term in the Republic of Ireland schemes and 3.5% and 2.5% per annum 
respectively over the long term in the UK schemes. The expected rate of return for bonds has been based on bond indices as at 31 
March.

Assumptions regarding future mortality experience are set based on advice from published statistics and experience in both geographic 
regions. The average life expectancy in years of a pensioner retiring at age 65 is as follows:

Current pensioners 
Male 
Female 

Future pensioners 
Male 
Female 

The Group does not operate any post-employment medical benefit schemes.

The net pension liability recognised in the Balance Sheet is analysed as follows:

Equities 
Bonds 
Property 
Cash 
Total market value at 31 March 2011 
Present value of scheme liabilities 
Net pension liability at 31 March 2011 

114

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

2011 

2010

23.2 
25.0 

26.3 
27.7 

22.0
25.1

23.3
26.4

ROI 
€’000 

27,273 
37,719 
1,691 
3,523 
70,206 
(83,885) 
(13,679) 

2011 

UK 
€’000 

5,168 
7,051 
1,064 
234 
13,517 
(19,173) 
(5,656) 

Total
€’000

32,441
44,770
2,755
3,757
83,723
(103,058)
(19,335)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

32. Retirement Benefit Obligations (continued)

Equities 
Bonds 
Property 
Cash 
Total market value at 31 March 2010 
Present value of scheme liabilities 
Net pension liability at 31 March 2010 

ROI 
€’000 

36,754 
17,028 
1,659 
10,491 
65,932 
(83,188) 
(17,256) 

2010

UK 
€’000 

6,103 
6,220 
980 
718 
14,021 
(20,455) 
(6,434) 

Total
€’000

42,857
23,248
2,639
11,209
79,953
(103,643)
(23,690)

The amounts recognised in the Group Income Statement in respect of defined benefit pension schemes is as follows:

Current service cost 
Total, included in employee benefit expenses (note 9) 

Curtailment and settlement gains  
Total, included in exceptional items (note 11) 

Interest cost, included in finance costs (note 12) 
Expected return on plan assets, included in finance income (note 12) 
Total 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

(2,383) 
(2,383) 

(2,662)
(2,662)

4,976 
4,976 

(5,347) 
4,691 
(656) 

-
-

(4,997)
3,456
(1,541)

Based on the assumptions employed for the valuation of assets and liabilities at 31 March 2011, the net charge in the Group Income 
Statement in the year ending 31 March 2012 is expected to be marginally lower than the current year figures.

The actuarial gain recognised in the Group Statement of Comprehensive Income is as follows:

Actual return less expected return on pension scheme assets 
Experience gains and losses arising on the scheme liabilities 
Changes in assumptions underlying the present value of the scheme liabilities 
Total, included in the Group Statement of Comprehensive Income 

The movement in the fair value of plan assets is as follows:

At 1 April 
Expected return on assets 
Actuarial (loss)/gain 
Contributions by employers 
Contributions by members 
Benefits paid 
Acquisition of subsidiary 
Exchange  
At 31 March 

The actual return on plan assets was a gain of €2.661 million (2010: gain of €16.634 million).

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

(2,030) 
1,344 
(1,904) 
(2,590) 

13,178
2,231
(17,004)
(1,595)

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

79,953 
4,691 
(2,030) 
5,080 
468 
(4,551) 
- 
112 
83,723 

52,265
3,456
13,178
11,665
368
(2,445)
1,011
455
79,953

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

115

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

32. Retirement Benefit Obligations (continued)
The movement in the present value of defined benefit obligations is as follows:

At 1 April 
Current service cost  
Interest cost 
Actuarial loss 
Contributions by members 
Benefits paid 
Acquisition of subsidiary 
Curtailment and settlement gains 
Exchange  
At 31 March 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

103,643 
2,383 
5,347 
560 
468 
(4,551) 
- 
(4,976) 
184 
103,058 

81,763
2,662
4,997
14,773
368
(2,445)
954
-
571
103,643

The level of contributions for the forthcoming financial year are expected to be broadly in line with the current year amounts.

History of scheme assets, liabilities and actuarial gains and losses
The five-year history in respect of assets, liabilities and actuarial gains and losses for the Group are as follows:

Fair value of assets 
Present value of liabilities  
Net pension liability 

2011 
€’000 

2010 
€’000 

2009 
€’000 

2008 
€’000 

2007
€’000

83,723 
(103,058) 
(19,335) 

79,953 
(103,643) 
(23,690) 

52,265 
(81,763) 
(29,498) 

67,907 
(89,758) 
(21,851) 

74,980
(91,352)
(16,372)

Difference between the expected and actual return on scheme assets 
As a percentage of scheme assets 

(2,030) 
(2.4%) 

13,178 
16.5% 

(21,904) 
(41.9%) 

(13,935) 
(20.5%) 

Experience gains and losses on scheme liabilities 
As a percentage of the present value of the scheme liabilities 

1,344 
(1.3%) 

2,231 
(2.2%) 

(589) 
0.7% 

(3,737) 
4.2% 

Total recognised in the Group Statement of Comprehensive Income   
As a percentage of the present value of the scheme liabilities 

(2,590) 
2.5% 

(1,595) 
1.5% 

(9,517) 
11.6% 

(9,086) 
10.1% 

904
1.2%

884
(1.0%)

1,576
(1.7%)

Cumulatively since transition to IFRS on 1 April 2004, €27.175 million has been recognised as a charge in the Group Statement of 
Comprehensive Income as follows:

Recognised in the financial year ended 31 March 2005  
Recognised in the financial year ended 31 March 2006  
Recognised in the financial year ended 31 March 2007  
Recognised in the financial year ended 31 March 2008  
Recognised in the financial year ended 31 March 2009  
Recognised in the financial year ended 31 March 2010  
Recognised in the financial year ended 31 March 2011  

€’000

(7,742)
1,779
1,576
(9,086)
(9,517)
(1,595)
(2,590)
(27,175)

Sensitivity analysis for principal assumptions used to measure scheme liabilities
There are inherent uncertainties surrounding the financial assumptions adopted in calculating the actuarial valuation of the Group’s 
defined benefit pension schemes. The following table analyses, for the Group’s Irish and UK pension schemes, the estimated impact on 
plan liabilities resulting from changes to key actuarial assumptions, whilst holding all other assumptions constant. 

Assumption 
Discount rate 
Price inflation 
Mortality 

Change in assumption 
Increase/decrease by 0.25% 
Increase/decrease by 0.25% 
Increase/decrease by one year 

Impact on Irish plan liabilities 
Decrease/increase by 5.4% 
Increase/decrease by 3.4% 
Increase/decrease by 2.1% 

Impact on UK plan liabilities 
Decrease/increase by 5.9%
Increase/decrease by 5.5%
Increase/decrease by 2.5%

116

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

33. Deferred and Contingent Acquisition Consideration
Group
The Group’s deferred and contingent acquisition consideration of €74.344 million (2010: €54.209 million) as stated on the Balance 
Sheet consists of €14.797 million of € floating rate provisions (2010: €12.885 million) and €59.547 million of Stg£ floating rate provisions 
(2010: €41.324 million) payable as follows:

Within one year 
Between one and two years 
Between two and five years 

Analysed as: 
Non-current liabilities 
Current liabilities 

The movement in the Group’s deferred and contingent acquisition consideration is as follows:

At 1 April 
Arising on acquisition 
Unwinding of discount applicable to deferred and contingent acquisition consideration 
Disposal of subsidiaries 
Amounts no longer required (note 20) 
Paid during the year 
Exchange 
At 31 March 

2011 
€’000 

9,156 
9,843 
55,345 
74,344 

65,188 
9,156 
74,344 

2010
€’000

4,858
5,059
44,292
54,209

49,351
4,858
54,209

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

54,209 
27,050 
946 
(1,106) 
(3,039) 
(3,709) 
(7) 
74,344 

21,147
36,198
450
-
-
(4,127)
541
54,209

34. Provisions for Liabilities and Charges
The reconciliation of the movement in provisions for liabilities and charges for the year ended 31 March 2011 is as follows:

Group 

At 1 April 2010 
Provided during the year 
Utilised during the year 
Arising on acquisition (note 45) 
Disposal of subsidiaries 
Exchange and other 
At 31 March 2011 

Analysed as: 
Non-current liabilities 
Current liabilities 

  Environmental 
and 
remediation 
€’000 

 Rationalisation, 
restructuring 
and 
redundancy 
€’000 

Insurance 
and other 
€’000 

8,545 
300 
(655) 
- 
- 
68 
8,258 

7,955 
303 
8,258 

4,220 
698 
(259) 
36 
(52) 
62 
4,705 

4,158 
547 
4,705 

Total
€’000

17,801
3,117
(3,315)
70
(400)
92
17,365

5,036 
2,119 
(2,401) 
34 
(348) 
(38) 
4,402 

2,143 
2,259 
4,402 

14,256
3,109
17,365

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

117

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

34. Provisions for Liabilities and Charges (continued)
The reconciliation of the movement in provisions for liabilities and charges for the year ended 31 March 2010 is as follows:

Group 

At 1 April 2009 
Provided during the year 
Utilised during the year 
Arising on acquisition (note 45) 
Exchange and other 
At 31 March 2010 

Analysed as: 
Non-current liabilities 
Current liabilities 

  Environmental 
and 
remediation 
€’000 

  Rationalisation, 
restructuring 
and 
redundancy 
€’000 

Insurance 
and other 
€’000 

4,168 
30 
(1,087) 
1,082 
27 
4,220 

10,664 
6,843 
(12,609) 
- 
138 
5,036 

Total
€’000

19,063
6,684
(13,696)
5,399
351
17,801

1,294 
2,926 
4,220 

2,015 
3,021 
5,036 

11,429
6,372
17,801

4,231 
(189) 
- 
4,317 
186 
8,545 

8,120 
425 
8,545 

Environmental and remediation
This provision relates to obligations governing site remediation and improvement costs to be incurred in compliance with environmental 
regulations. The net present value of the estimated costs is capitalised as property, plant and equipment. The unwinding of the discount 
element on the provision is reflected in the Income Statement. Provision is made for the net present value of post closure costs based 
on the quantity of waste input into the landfill during the year. Ongoing costs incurred during the operating life of the sites are written 
off directly to the Income Statement and are not charged to the provision. The majority of the obligations will unwind over a 30-year 
timeframe. 

Insurance and other
The insurance provision relates to employers liability and public and products liability and reflects an estimation of the excess not 
recoverable from insurers arising from claims against Group companies. A significant element of the provision is subject to external 
assessments. The claims triangles applied in valuation indicate that these provisions have an average life of four years (2010: four years). 

Rationalisation and redundancy
This provision relates to various rationalisation and restructuring programs across the Group. The majority of this provision falls due 
within one year.

35. Government Grants

Group 

At 1 April 
Amortisation in year 
Received in year 
Arising on acquisition (note 45) 
Disposal of subsidiaries 
Exchange and other adjustments 
At 31 March 
Disclosed as due within one year (note 25) 

36. Share Capital

Group and Company 

Authorised 
152,368,568 ordinary shares of €0.25 each 

Issued 
88,229,404 ordinary shares (including 4,911,407 ordinary shares held as Treasury Shares)
of €0.25 each, fully paid (2010: 88,229,404 ordinary shares (including 5,224,345 ordinary shares
held as Treasury Shares) of €0.25 each, fully paid) 

118

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

2011 
€’000 

3,853 
(730) 
626 
- 
(788) 
30 
2,991 
(127) 
2,864 

2010
€’000

2,136
(800)
1,799
650
-
68
3,853
(175)
3,678

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

38,092 

38,092

22,057 

22,057

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

36. Share Capital (continued)
As at 31 March 2011, the total authorised number of ordinary shares is 152,368,568 shares (2010: 152,368,568 shares) with a par 
value of €0.25 per share (2010: €0.25 per share).

During the year the Company re-issued 312,938 Treasury Shares for a consideration (net of expenses) of €3.835 million.

All shares, whether fully or partly paid, carry equal voting rights and rank for dividends to the extent to which the total amount payable 
on each share is paid up.

Details of share options granted under the Company’s share option schemes and the terms attaching thereto are provided in note 10 to 
the financial statements and in the Report on Directors’ Remuneration and Interests on pages 62 to 68.

37. Share Premium

Group and Company 

At 31 March 

38. Other Reserves

Group 

At 31 March 2009 
Currency translation 
Cash flow hedges 
- fair value gains in year 
- tax on fair value gains 
- transfers to sales 
- transfers to cost of sales 
- tax on transfers 
Share based payment 
At 31 March 2010 
Currency translation 
Cash flow hedges 
- fair value gains in year 
- tax on fair value gains 
- transfers to sales 
- transfers to cost of sales 
- tax on transfers 
Share based payment 
At 31 March 2011 

Company 

At 31 March 2011 and 31 March 2010 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

124,687 

124,687

Share 
options1 
€’000 

Cash flow 
hedge 
reserve2 
€’000 

Foreign 
currency 
translation 
reserve3 
€’000 

Other 
reserves4 
€’000 

Total
€’000

7,807 
- 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
1,341 
9,148 
- 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
1,389 
10,537 

(1,174) 
- 

(153,036) 
23,264 

1,400 
- 

(145,003)
23,264

4,062 
(926) 
(180) 
(2,896) 
819 
- 
(295) 
- 

9,038 
(1,935) 
(116) 
(7,299) 
1,594 
- 
987 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
(129,772) 
4,636 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
(125,136) 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
1,400 
- 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
1,400 

4,062
(926)
(180)
(2,896)
819
1,341
(119,519)
4,636

9,038
(1,935)
(116)
(7,299)
1,594
1,389
(112,212)

Other
reserves5
€’000

344

1  The share option reserve comprises the amounts expensed in the Income Statement in connection with share based payments.
2   The cash flow hedge reserve comprises the effective portion of the cumulative net change in the fair value of cash flow hedging 

instruments  related to hedged transactions that have not yet occurred.

3   The foreign currency translation reserve represents all foreign exchange differences from 1 April 2004 arising from the translation of 

the net  assets of the Group’s non-euro denominated operations, including the translation of the profits and losses of such operations 
from the  average rate for the year to the closing rate at the balance sheet date.

4  The Group’s other reserves comprise a capital conversion reserve fund and an unrealised gain on the disposal of an associate.
5  The Company’s other reserves is a capital conversion reserve fund.

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

119

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

39. Retained Earnings

Group 

At 1 April 
Net income recognised in Income Statement 
Net income recognised directly in equity 
- actuarial loss on Group defined benefit pension schemes 
- deferred tax on actuarial loss 
Re-issue of treasury shares (net of expenses) 
Dividends 
At 31 March 

Company 

At 1 April 
Total comprehensive income for the financial year 
Re-issue of treasury shares (net of expenses) 
Dividends 
At 31 March 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

806,452 
145,109 

720,909
130,803

(2,590) 
336 
3,835 
(58,034) 
895,108 

(1,595)
861
7,657
(52,183)
806,452

2011 

€’000 

2010

€’000

153,643 
10,284 
3,835 
(58,034) 
109,728 

194,317
3,852
7,657
(52,183)
153,643

The cost to the Group and the Company of €64.489 million to acquire the 4,911,407 shares held in Treasury has been deducted from 
the Group and Company Retained Earnings. These shares were acquired at prices ranging from €10.50 to €17.90 each (average: 
€13.13) between 12 November 2003 and 19 June 2006.

40. Non-Controlling Interests

Group 

At 1 April 
Acquisition of non-controlling interests in subsidiary undertaking (note 45) 
Share of profit for the financial year 
Dividends to non-controlling interests 
Disposal of subsidiaries 
Exchange and other adjustments 
At 31 March 

2011 
€’000 

3,249 
- 
688 
(219) 
(1,457) 
(27) 
2,234 

2010
€’000

3,581
(1,037)
891
(275)
-
89
3,249

120

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

41. Cash Generated from Operations

Group 

Profit for the financial year 
Add back non-operating (income)/expense 
- tax (note 15) 
- share of loss/(profit) from associates (note 14) 
- net operating exceptionals (note 11) 
- net finance costs (note 12) 
Operating profit before exceptionals 
- share-based payments expense (note 10) 
- depreciation (note 19) 
- amortisation (note 20) 
- profit on sale of property, plant and equipment 
- amortisation of government grants (note 35) 
- other 
Changes in working capital (excluding the effects of acquisition and exchange differences on consolidation):  
- inventories (note 26) 
- trade and other receivables (note 26) 
- trade and other payables (note 26) 
Cash generated from operations 

Company 

Profit for the financial year 
Add back non-operating income 
- tax 
- net finance costs  
Operating profit 
Changes in working capital: 
- trade and other receivables (note 26) 
- trade and other payables (note 26) 
Cash generated from operations 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

145,797 

131,694

43,771 
239 
12,650 
16,201 
218,658 
1,389 
52,906 
10,962 
(818) 
(730) 
(1,927) 

33,207
(152)
9,764
12,170
186,683
1,341
46,956
6,150
(1,515)
(800)
(12,872)

(4,669) 
(75,562) 
69,363 
269,572 

(11,050)
(140,533)
223,397
297,757

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

10,284 

3,852

- 
(13,241) 
(2,957) 

7,148 
30,565 
34,756 

(2)
(5,553)
(1,703)

31,355
21,736
51,388

42. Contingencies
Guarantees
The Company and certain subsidiaries have given guarantees of €1,173.393 million (2010: €1,042.033 million) in respect of borrowings 
and other obligations arising in the ordinary course of business of the Company and other Group undertakings. 

Other
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 17, Companies (Amendment) Act, 1986, the Company has guaranteed the liabilities of the 
following subsidiaries; Altimate Ireland Limited, Alvabay Limited, Arc Telecom Limited, DCC Business Expansion Fund Limited, DCC 
Corporate 2007 Limited, DCC Corporate Partners Limited, DCC Energy Limited, DCC Finance Limited, DCC Funding 2007 Limited, 
DCC Healthcare Limited, DCC Management Services Limited, DCC Nominees Limited, DCC SerCom Limited, Emo Oil Limited, Fannin 
Limited, Fannin Compounding Limited, Flogas Ireland Limited, Great Gas Petroleum (Ireland) Limited, Lotus Green Limited, SerCom 
(Holdings) Limited, SerCom Property Limited, Shannon Environmental Holdings Limited and Sharptext Limited. As a result, these 
companies will be exempted from the filing provisions of Section 7, Companies (Amendment) Act, 1986.

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

121

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

43. Capital Expenditure Commitments

Group 

Capital expenditure on property, plant and equipment that has been 
contracted for but has not been provided for in the financial statements 
Capital expenditure on property, plant and equipment that has been 
authorised by the Directors but has not yet been contracted for 

44. Commitments under Operating and Finance Leases

Group

Operating leases
Future minimum rentals payable under non-cancellable operating leases at 31 March are as follows:

Within one year 
After one year but not more than five years 
More than five years 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

4,109 

2,665

75,024 
79,133 

60,487
63,152

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

12,962 
41,050 
77,094 
131,106 

18,154
42,223
79,130
139,507

The Group leases a number of properties under operating leases. The leases typically run for a period of 10 to 25 years. Rents are 
generally reviewed every five years.

During the year ended 31 March 2011, €25.510 million (2010: €24.399 million) was recognised as an expense in the Income Statement 
in respect of operating leases.

Finance leases
Future minimum lease payments under finance leases together with the present value of the net minimum lease payments are as 
follows:

Within one year 
After one year but not more than five years 

Less: amounts allocated to future finance costs 
Present value of minimum lease payments 

2011 

2010

Minimum 
payments 
€’000 

Present 
value of 
payments 
€’000 

478 
423 
901 
(13) 
888 

475 
413 
888 
- 
888 

Minimum 
payments 
€’000 

1,347 
752 
2,099 
(26) 
2,073 

Present
value of
payments
€’000

1,341
732
2,073
-
2,073

45. Business Combinations
The principal acquisitions completed by the Group during the year, together with percentages acquired were as follows:
-  F. Peart (100%): a medium sized oil distribution business which operates from four locations in the north of England, announced on 4 

May 2010;

-  the acquisition of two oil importation and storage terminals in Scotland, announced on 16 July 2010; 
-  Comtrade SA (74%): a distributor of consumer electronic and audio visual products to the retail sector in France, announced on 23 

August 2010; and

- Advent Data Limited (100%): a UK based distributor of electronic office supplies, announced on 9 March 2011.

122

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

45. Business Combinations (continued)
The carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities acquired (excluding net debt/cash acquired), determined in accordance with IFRS 
before completion of the business combinations, together with the fair value adjustments made to those carrying values were as follows:

Assets 
Non-current assets 
Property, plant and equipment (note 19) 
Intangible assets - other intangible assets (note 20) 
Investments in associates (note 21) 
Deferred income tax assets  
Total non-current assets 

Current assets 
Inventories (note 26) 
Trade and other receivables (note 26) 
Total current assets 

Equity 
Non-controlling interests (note 40) 
Total equity 

Liabilities 
Non-current liabilities 
Deferred income tax liabilities  
Retirement benefit obligations 
Provisions for liabilities and charges (note 34) 
Deferred and contingent acquisition consideration 
Government grants (note 35) 
Total non-current liabilities 

Current liabilities 
Trade and other payables (note 26) 
Current income tax liabilities 
Total current liabilities 

Identifiable net assets acquired 
Intangible assets - goodwill (note 20) 
Total consideration (enterprise value) 

Satisfied by: 
Cash 
Net debt/(cash) acquired 
Net cash outflow 
Deferred and contingent acquisition consideration 
Total consideration 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

22,708 
15,075 
127 
47 
37,957 

38,532
25,331
-
479
64,342

19,214 
47,272 
66,486 

9,917
86,765
96,682

- 
- 

1,037
1,037

(4,583) 
- 
(70) 
- 
- 
(4,653) 

(9,207)
57
(5,399)
(450)
(650)
(15,649)

(44,224) 
(685) 
(44,909) 

(102,869)
(1,374)
(104,243)

54,881 
46,783 
101,664 

42,169
123,094
165,263

73,503 
1,111 
74,614 
27,050 
101,664 

142,439
(12,924)
129,515
35,748
165,263

None of the business combinations completed during the year were considered sufficiently material to warrant separate disclosure of 
the fair values attributable to those combinations. The carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities acquired, determined in accordance 
with IFRS, before completion of the combination together with the adjustments made to those carrying values disclosed above were as 
follows:

Total 

Non-current assets (excluding goodwill) 
Current assets 
Non-current liabilities and non-controlling interests 
Current liabilities 
Identifiable net assets acquired 
Goodwill arising on acquisition 
Total consideration (enterprise value) 

Book 
value 
€’000 

Fair value 
adjustments 
€’000 

Fair
value
€’000

22,882 
68,945 
(717) 
(44,909) 
46,201 
55,463 
101,664 

15,075 
(2,459) 
(3,936) 
- 
8,680 
(8,680) 
- 

37,957
66,486
(4,653)
(44,909)
54,881
46,783
101,664

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

123

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

45. Business Combinations (continued)
The initial assignment of fair values to identifiable net assets acquired has been performed on a provisional basis in respect of a number 
of the business combinations above given the timing of closure of these transactions. Any amendments to these fair values within the 
twelve month timeframe from the date of acquisition will be disclosable in the 2012 Annual Report as stipulated by IFRS 3.

The principal factors contributing to the recognition of goodwill on business combinations entered into by the Group are the expected 
profitability of the acquired business and the realisation of cost savings and synergies with existing Group entities.

None of the goodwill recognised in respect of acquisitions completed during the financial year is expected to be deductible for tax 
purposes.

The acquisition related costs for these acquisitions included in the Group Income Statement amounted to €3.566 million.

No contingent liabilities were recognised on the acquisitions completed during the financial year or the prior financial years.

The gross contractual value of trade and other receivables as at the respective dates of acquisition amounted to €49.731 million. The 
fair value of these receivables is €47.272 million (all of which is expected to be recoverable) and is inclusive of an aggregate allowance 
for impairment of €1.523 million.

The fair value of contingent consideration recognised at the date of acquisition is calculated by discounting the expected future payment 
to present value at the acquisition date. In general, for contingent consideration to become payable, pre-defined profit thresholds must 
be exceeded. On an undiscounted basis, the future payments for which the Group may be liable for acquisitions in the current year 
range from nil to €45.851 million.

There were no adjustments processed during the year to the fair value of business combinations completed during the year ended 31 
March 2010 where those fair values were not readily determinable as at 31 March 2010.

The post-acquisition impact of business combinations completed during the year on Group profit for the financial year was as follows:

Revenue 
Cost of sales 
Gross profit 
Operating costs 

Operating exceptional items 
Operating profit 
Finance costs (net) 
Profit before tax 
Income tax expense 
Profit for the financial year 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

255,142 
(234,710) 
20,432 
(9,560) 
10,872 
- 
10,872 
(54) 
10,818 
(2,943) 
7,875 

454,841
(415,701)
39,140
(22,606)
16,534
(117)
16,417
(512)
15,905
(3,891)
12,014

The revenue and profit of the Group for the financial year determined in accordance with IFRS as though the acquisition date for all 
business combinations effected during the year had been the beginning of that year would be as follows:

Revenue 
Group profit for the financial year 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

  8,867,654  7,559,862
139,020

150,412 

124

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

46. Financial Risk and Capital Management
Capital risk management
The Group’s objectives when managing its capital structure are to safeguard the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern in 
order to provide returns to shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders, while maintaining a strong balance sheet to support the 
continued organic and acquisitive growth of its businesses and to maintain investor, creditor and market confidence. 

In order to maintain or adjust the capital structure, the Group may adjust the amount of dividends paid to shareholders, issue new 
shares or buy back existing shares, increase or reduce debt or sell assets.

The policy for net debt is to ensure a structure of longer term debt funding and cash balances with deposit maturities up to three 
months.

The capital structure of the Group, which comprises capital and reserves attributable to the owners of the Parent, net debt and deferred 
and contingent acquisition consideration, may be summarised as follows:

Group 

Capital and reserves attributable to the owners of the Parent 
Net debt (note 30) 
Deferred and contingent acquisition consideration (note 33) 
At 31 March 

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

929,640 
45,183 
74,344 
  1,049,167 

833,677
53,539
54,209
941,425

Financial risk management
Group financial risk management is governed by policies and guidelines which are reviewed and approved annually by the Board of 
Directors, most recently in November 2010. These policies and guidelines primarily cover credit risk, liquidity risk, foreign exchange risk, 
interest rate risk and commodity price risk. The principal objective of these policies and guidelines is the minimisation of financial risk at 
reasonable cost. The Group does not trade in financial instruments nor does it enter into any leveraged derivative transactions. DCC’s 
Group Treasury function centrally manages the Group’s funding and liquidity requirements. Divisional and subsidiary management, in 
conjunction with Group Treasury, manage foreign exchange and commodity price exposures within approved policies and guidelines.

There are no significant concentrations of risk and there has been no significant change during the financial year, or since the end of the 
year, to the types of financial risks faced by the Group or the Group’s approach to the management of those risks.

(i) Credit risk management
Credit risk arises from credit exposure to trade debtors, cash and cash equivalents including deposits with banks and financial 
institutions and derivative and financial instruments.

Trade receivables arise from a wide and varied customer base spread throughout the Group’s operations and as such there is no 
significant concentration of credit risk. The Group’s credit risk management policy in relation to trade receivables involves periodically 
assessing the financial reliability of customers, taking into account their financial position, past experience and other factors. The 
utilisation of credit limits is regularly monitored and a significant element of credit risk is covered by credit insurance. 

Risk of counterparty default arising on cash and cash equivalents and derivative financial instruments is controlled within a framework of 
dealing with high quality institutions and, by policy, limiting the amount of credit exposure to any one bank or institution. DCC transacts 
with a variety of high credit quality financial institutions for the purpose of placing deposits and entering into derivative contracts. The 
Group actively monitors its credit exposure to each counterparty to ensure compliance with the counterparty risk limits of the Board 
approved treasury policy. Of the total cash and cash equivalents at 31 March 2011 of €700.340 million, 94.7% (€662.976 million) was 
with financial institutions with a minimum rating in the P-1 (short-term) category of Moodys. As at 31 March 2011 derivative transactions 
were with counterparties with ratings ranging from A- to BB (long-term) with Standard and Poors or Baa3 to Aa3 (long-term) with 
Moodys. In the normal course of business, the Group operates notional cash pooling systems, where a legal right of set-off applies.

Management does not expect any significant counterparty to fail to meet its obligations. The maximum exposure to credit risk is 
represented by the carrying amount of each asset. 

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

125

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

46. Financial Risk and Capital Management (continued)
Included in the Group’s trade and other receivables as at 31 March 2011 are balances of €96.191 million (2010: €94.127 million) which 
are past due at the reporting date but not impaired in the majority of cases. The aged analysis of these balances is as follows:

Group 

Less than 1 month overdue 
1 - 3 months overdue 
3 - 6 months overdue 
Over 6 months overdue 

The movement in the provision for impairment of trade receivables during the year is as follows:

Group 

At 1 April 
Provision for impairment recognised in the year 
Amounts recovered during the year 
Amounts written off during the year 
Arising on acquisition 
Disposal of subsidiaries 
Exchange differences 
At 31 March 

2011 
€’000 

63,213 
27,940 
3,173 
1,865 
96,191 

2010
€’000

69,087
16,055
5,130
3,855
94,127

2011 
€’000 

2010
€’000

30,590 
5,317 
237 
(6,159) 
1,523 
(392) 
86 
31,202 

30,753
8,946
343
(12,861)
1,522
-
1,887
30,590

Company
There were no past due or impaired trade receivables in the Company at 31 March 2011 (31 March 2010: none).

(ii) Liquidity risk management
The Group maintains a strong balance sheet with long term debt funding and cash balances with deposit maturities up to three 
months. Wherever possible, surplus funds in the Group are transferred to the centralised treasury department through the repayment 
of borrowings, deposits and dividends. These are then lent to Group companies or contributed as equity to fund Group operations, 
used to retire external debt or invested externally. The Group does not use off-balance sheet special purpose entities as a source of 
liquidity or for other financing purposes. In addition, the Group maintains significant uncommitted credit lines with its relationship banks. 
Compliance with the Group’s biannual debt covenants is monitored continuously based on the management accounts. Sensitivity 
analyses using various scenarios are applied to forecasts to assess their impact on covenants and net debt. During the year to 31 
March 2011 all covenants have been complied with and based on current forecasts it is expected that all covenants will continue to be 
complied with for the foreseeable future.

The tables below show the projected contractual undiscounted total cash outflows (principal and interest) arising from the Group’s trade 
and other payables, gross debt and derivative financial instruments. The tables also include the gross cash inflows projected to arise 
from derivative financial instruments. These projections are based on the interest and foreign exchange rates applying at the end of the 
relevant financial year.

126

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

46. Financial Risk and Capital Management (continued)
Group 

As at 31 March 2011 

Financial liabilities - cash outflows 
Trade and other payables  
Interest bearing loans and borrowings 
Interest payments on interest bearing loans and borrowings 
Cross currency swaps - gross cash outflows 
Other derivative financial instruments 

Derivative financial instruments - cash inflows  
Interest rate swaps - net cash inflows 
Cross currency swaps - gross cash inflows 

Group 

As at 31 March 2010 

Financial liabilities - cash outflows 
Trade and other payables  
Interest bearing loans and borrowings 
Interest payments on interest bearing loans and borrowings 
Cross currency swaps - gross cash outflows 
Other derivative financial instruments 

Derivative financial instruments - cash inflows  
Interest rate swaps - net cash inflows 
Cross currency swaps - gross cash inflows 

Less than 

Between 

Between 
1 year  1 and 2 years  2 and 5 years 
€’000 
€’000 
€’000 

Over 
5 years 
€’000 

Total
€’000

(1,149,786) 
(40,542) 
(40,117) 
(14,896) 
(533) 
(1,245,874) 

- 
(317) 
(39,061) 
(14,896) 
- 
(54,274) 

- 
(278,640) 
(89,959) 
(292,480) 
- 
(661,079) 

- 
(425,569) 
(68,357) 
(391,456) 
- 

(1,149,786)
(745,068)
(237,494)
(713,728)
(533)
(885,382)  (2,846,609)

3,070 
34,428 
37,498 

3,070 
34,428 
37,498 

6,582 
324,135 
330,717 

357 
444,249 
444,606 

13,079
837,240
850,319

Less than 
1 year 
€’000 

Between 
1 and 2 years 
€’000 

Between 
2 and 5 years 
€’000 

Over 
5 years 
€’000 

Total
€’000

(1,039,641) 
(58,169) 
(42,895) 
(12,610) 
(557) 
(1,153,872) 

- 
(6,503) 
(41,161) 
(12,610) 
- 
(60,274) 

- 
(276,099) 
(94,771) 
(277,614) 
- 
(648,484) 

- 
(462,549) 
(99,535) 
(409,687) 
- 

(1,039,641)
(803,320)
(278,362)
(712,521)
(557)
(971,771)  (2,834,401)

3,301 
36,296 
39,597 

3,301 
36,296 
39,597 

6,909 
325,511 
332,420 

4,148 
508,201 
512,349 

17,659
906,304
923,963

The Group has sufficient cash resources and liquid assets to enable it to meet its current borrowing obligations and trade and other 
payables.

Company 

As at 31 March 2011 

Financial liabilities - cash outflows 
Trade and other payables  

Company 

As at 31 March 2010 

Financial liabilities - cash outflows 
Trade and other payables  

Less than 

Between 

Between 
1 year  1 and 2 years  2 and 5 years 
€’000 
€’000 
€’000 

Over 
5 years 
€’000 

Total
€’000

316,450 

- 

10,387 

- 

326,837

Less than 
1 year 
€’000 

Between 
1 and 2 years 
€’000 

Between 
2 and 5 years 
€’000 

Over 
5 years 
€’000 

Total
€’000

285,885 

- 

10,387 

- 

296,272

The Company has sufficient cash resources and liquid assets to enable it to meet its trade and other payables.

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

127

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

46. Financial Risk and Capital Management (continued)
(iii) Market risk management
Foreign exchange risk management
DCC’s reporting currency and that in which its share capital is denominated is the euro. Foreign exchange risk arises from future 
commercial transactions, recognised assets and liabilities and net investments in foreign operations giving rise to exposure to other 
currencies, primarily sterling and the US dollar.

Divisional and subsidiary management, in conjunction with Group Treasury, manage foreign currency exposures within approved policies 
and guidelines using forward currency contracts.

The portion of the Group’s operating profits which are sterling denominated are offset to a limited degree by certain natural economic 
hedges that exist within the Group in that a proportion of the purchases by certain of its Irish businesses are sterling denominated. The 
Group does not hedge the remaining translation exposure on the translation of the profits of foreign currency subsidiaries on the basis 
that they are not intended to be repatriated. 

The Group has investments in sterling operations which are highly cash generative. Although the Group holds significant borrowings 
denominated or swapped into sterling, these sterling borrowings have been offset by the strong ongoing cash flow generated by the 
Group’s sterling operations leaving the Group with a net position in sterling assets. The marginal increase of 0.6% in the value of sterling 
against the euro during the year ended 31 March 2011 gave rise to a gain of €4.6 million on the translation of the Group’s sterling 
denominated net asset position at 31 March 2011 as set out in the Statement of Comprehensive Income. Included in this figure is €2.6 
million relating to the Group’s sterling denominated intangible assets. 

The Group has a moderate level of transactional currency exposure arising from sales or purchases by operating units in currencies 
other than their functional currencies. Where sales or purchases are invoiced in other then the local currency and there is not a natural 
hedge with other activities within the Group, DCC generally hedges between 50% and 90% of those transactions for the subsequent 
two months. The Group also hedges a proportion of anticipated transactions in certain subsidiaries for periods ranging up to fifteen 
months with such transactions qualifying as ‘highly probable’ forecast transactions for IAS 39 hedge accounting purposes.

Sensitivity to currency movements
Group
A change in the value of other currencies by 10% against the euro would have a €14.7 million (2010: €12.4 million) impact on the 
Group’s profit before tax, would change the Group’s equity by €65.2 million and change the Group’s net debt by €6.0 million (2010: 
€58.4 million and €5.9 million respectively). These amounts include an insignificant amount of transactional currency exposure.

Company
The Company does not have any material assets or liabilities denominated in any currency other than euro at 31 March 2011 or at 31 
March 2010 and consequently has no exposure to currency movements at 31 March 2011 (31 March 2010: nil).

Interest rate risk management
On a net debt basis, the Group is exposed to changes in interest rates, primarily changes in EURIBOR and sterling LIBOR. Having 
borrowed at both fixed and floating rates of interest, DCC has swapped its fixed rate borrowings to floating interest rates, using interest 
rate and cross currency interest rate swaps. Overall interest rate risk on gross borrowings is mitigated by matching, to the extent 
possible, the maturity of its cash balances with the interest rate reset periods on the swaps related to its borrowings. 

Sensitivity of interest charges to interest rate movements
Group
Based on the composition of net debt at 31 March 2011 a one percentage point (100 basis points) change in average floating interest 
rates would have a €1.5 million (2010: €1.5 million) impact on the Group’s profit before tax.

Further information on Group borrowings and the management of related interest rate risk is set out in notes 29 and 28 respectively.

128

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

46. Financial Risk and Capital Management (continued)
Company
The effective interest rates earned during the year on cash at bank ranged from 0.4% to 1.5%. Generally the Company holds very low 
levels of cash or debt throughout the year and consequently has a negligible exposure to movements in interest rates.

Commodity price risk management
The Group is exposed to commodity cost price risk in its oil distribution and LPG businesses. Market dynamics are such that 
these commodity cost price movements are immediately reflected in oil commodity sales prices and, within a short period, in LPG 
commodity sales prices. Fixed price oil supply contracts are occasionally provided to certain customers for periods of less than one 
year. To manage this exposure, the Group enters into matching forward commodity contracts which are designated as hedges under 
IAS 39. The Group hedges a proportion of its anticipated LPG commodity exposure, with such transactions qualifying as ‘highly 
probable’ forecast transactions for IAS 39 hedge accounting purposes. In addition, to cover certain customer segments for whom it 
is commercially beneficial to avoid price increases, a proportion of LPG commodity price and related foreign exchange exposure is 
hedged. All commodity hedging counterparties are approved by the Board.

Sensitivity to commodity price movements
Group
Due to pricing dynamics in the oil distribution market, an increase or decrease of 10% in the commodity cost price of oil would have a 
nil impact on the Group’s profit before tax (2010: nil) and a nil impact on the Group’s equity (2010: nil). 

The impact on the Group’s profit before tax and on the Group’s equity of an increase or decrease of 10% in the commodity cost price of 
LPG would be dependant on seasonal variations, competitive pressures and the underlying absolute cost of the commodity at the time 
and, as such, is difficult to quantify but would not be material.

Company
The Company has no exposure to commodity price risk.

Fair values of financial assets and financial liabilities
The fair values of borrowings (none of which are listed) and derivative financial instruments are measured by discounting cash flows at 
prevailing interest and exchange rates. The carrying value of non-interest bearing financial assets and financial liabilities and cash and 
cash equivalents approximates their fair values, largely due to their short-term maturities. The following is a comparison by category of 
book values and fair values of the Group’s and Company’s financial assets and financial liabilities:

Group 

Financial assets 
Derivative financial instruments 
Trade and other receivables 
Cash and cash equivalents 

Financial liabilities 
Borrowings 
Derivative financial instruments 
Trade and other payables 

Company 
Financial assets 
Trade and other receivables 
Cash and cash equivalents 

Financial liabilities 
Trade and other payables 

2011 

2010

Book value 
€’000 

Fair value 
€’000 

Book value 
€’000 

Fair value
€’000

87,938 

87,938 
  1,034,275  1,034,275 
700,340 

103,264
922,019
714,917
  1,822,553  1,822,553  1,740,200  1,740,200

103,264 
922,019 
714,917 

700,340 

802,786 
30,675 

778,222 
30,675 
  1,149,786  1,149,786 
  1,983,247  1,958,683 

(851,832) 
(19,888) 

(821,022)
(19,888)
(1,039,641)  (1,039,641)
(1,911,361)  (1,880,551)

414,314 
30 
414,344 

414,314 
30 
414,344 

421,462 
6,232 
427,694 

421,462
6,232
427,694

(326,837) 
(326,837) 

(326,837) 
(326,837) 

(296,272) 
(296,272) 

(296,272)
(296,272)

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

129

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

46. Financial Risk and Capital Management (continued)
Group
The Group has adopted the following fair value measurement hierarchy in relation to its financial assets and financial liabilities that are 
carried in the Balance Sheet at fair value as at the year end:
-  Level 1: quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
-  Level 2: inputs, other than quoted prices included within level 1, that are observable for the asset or liability either directly (as prices) or 

indirectly (derived from prices); and

-  Level 3: inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data (unobservable inputs).

Group 
Fair value measurement as at 31 March 2011 

Level 1 

€’000 

Level 2 

€’000 

Level 3 

€’000 

Total

€’000

Financial assets 
Derivative financial instruments  

Financial liabilities 
Derivative financial instruments  

Group 
Fair value measurement as at 31 March 2010 

Financial assets 
Derivative financial instruments  

Financial liabilities 
Derivative financial instruments  

- 
- 

- 
- 

87,938 
87,938 

30,675 
30,675 

- 
- 

- 
- 

Level 1 

€’000 

Level 2 

€’000 

Level 3 

€’000 

87,938
87,938

30,675
30,675

Total

€’000

- 
- 

- 
- 

103,264 
103,264 

19,888 
19,888 

- 
- 

- 
- 

103,264
103,264

19,888
19,888

Company
As at 31 March 2011 and 31 March 2010 the Company had no financial assets or financial liabilities which were carried at fair value.

130

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

47. Related Party Transactions
The principal related party relationships requiring disclosure in the consolidated financial statements of the Group under IAS 24 Related 
Party Disclosures relate to the existence of subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates and transactions with these entities entered into 
by the Group and the identification and compensation of key management personnel as addressed in more detail below:

Group
Subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates
The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries, joint ventures and 
associates as documented in the accounting policies on pages 80 to 88. A listing of the principal subsidiaries, joint ventures and 
associates is provided in the Group Directory on pages 132 to 135 of this Annual Report. 

Transactions are entered into in the normal course of business on an arm’s length basis.

Sales to and purchases from, together with outstanding payables and receivables to and from subsidiaries and joint ventures are 
eliminated in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements. 

Compensation of key management personnel
For the purposes of the disclosure requirements under IAS 24, the term ‘key management personnel’ (i.e. those persons having 
authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of the Company) comprises the Board of Directors which 
manages the business and affairs of the Company. Full disclosure in relation to the compensation entitlements of the Board of Directors 
is provided in the Report on Directors’ Remuneration and Interests on pages 62 to 68 of this Annual Report.

Company
Subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates
During the year the Company did not receive dividends from its subsidiaries or associates (2010: nil). Details of loan balances to/from 
subsidiaries are provided in the Company Balance Sheet on page 77, in note 24 ‘Trade and Other Receivables’ and in note 25 ‘Trade 
and Other Payables’.

During the year the Company was charged a management fee of €3.486 million (2010: €2.892 million) by its subsidiary, DCC 
Management Services Limited.

48. Events after the Balance Sheet Date
There have been no material events subsequent to 31 March 2011 which would require disclosure in this report.

49. Approval of Financial Statements
The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 9 May 2011.

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

131

Group Directory

Principal Subsidiaries and Joint Ventures

DCC Energy
Company name & address 

DCC Energy Limited 
DCC House, Brewery Road, 
Stillorgan, Blackrock, 
Co. Dublin, Ireland 

Oil
GB Oils Limited  
302 Bridgewater Place, 
Birchwood Park, 
Warrington WA3 6XG, England 

Emo Oil Limited 
Clonminam Industrial Estate, 
Portlaoise,  
Co. Laois, Ireland 

Principal activity 

Contact details

Holding and divisional management company 

Procurement, sales, marketing and distribution 
of petroleum products 

Procurement, sales, marketing and distribution 
of petroleum products 

Tel: +353 1 2799 400
Fax: +353 1 2831 017
Email: energy@dcc.ie
www.dcc.ie

Tel: +44 1925 858 500
Fax: +44 1925 858 501
Email: info@gb-oils.co.uk
www.gb-oils.co.uk

Tel: +353 578 674 700
Fax: +353 578 674 775
Email: info@emo.ie
www.emo.ie

Great Gas Petroleum (Ireland) Limited  Procurement, sales, marketing and distribution 
Market House 
Churchtown, Mallow, 
Co Cork, Ireland 

of petroleum products 

Tel: +353 22 23 989
Fax: +353 22 23 980
Email: info@greatgas.com
www.greatgas.com

DCC Energy Limited 
40 - 48 Airport Road West, 
Sydenham,  
Belfast BT3 9ED, Northern Ireland 

DCC Energi Danmark A/S 
Naerum Hovedgade 8, 
2850 Naerum, Danmark 

Procurement, sales, marketing and distribution 
of petroleum products 

Procurement, sales, marketing and distribution 
of petroleum products 

Tel: +44 28 9073 2611
Fax: +44 28 9045 0243
Email: enquiries@emooil.com
www.emooil.com

Tel: +45 7010 2010-04-21
Fax: +45 4558 0190
Email: info@kundeservice.dccenergi.dk
www.dccenergi.dk

Energie Direct MineralölhandelsgesmbH  Procurement, sales, marketing and distribution  
Alte Poststraße 400, 
A-8055 Graz, 
Austria   

of petroleum products 

Tel: +43 316 210
Fax: +43 316 210 20 
Email: info@energiedirect.at
www.energiedirect.at

LPG
Flogas UK Limited 
81 Raynsway, 
Syston,  
Leicester LE7 1PF, England 

Flogas Ireland Limited 
Knockbrack House, 
Matthews Lane,  
Donore Road,  
Drogheda, 
Co. Louth, Ireland

Fuel Card
Fuel Card Services Limited 
Alexandra House, 
Lawnswood Business Park, 
Redvers Close, 
Leeds LS16 6QY, England

Procurement, sales, marketing and distribution 
of liquefied petroleum gas 

Procurement, sales, marketing and distribution 
of liquefied petroleum gas 

Tel: +44 116 2649 000
Fax: +44 116 2649 001
Email: enquiries@flogas.co.uk
www.flogas.co.uk

Tel: +353 41 9831 041
Fax: +353 41 9834 652
Email: info@flogas.ie
www.flogas.ie

Sale of motor fuels through fuel cards 

Tel: +44 113 384 6264
Fax: +44 844 870 9827
Email: info@fuelcardservices.com
www.fuelcardservices.com

132

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DCC SerCom
Company name & address 

SerCom Distribution Limited 
DCC House, Brewery Road, 
Stillorgan, Blackrock, 
Co. Dublin, Ireland 

Retail
Gem Distribution Limited 
St. George House, Parkway,  
Harlow Business Park, Harlow, 
Essex CM19 5QF, England 

Multichannel Solutions  
for Entertainment (MSE) Limited 
Unit 2, Loughlinstown Industrial Estate, 
Ballybrack, Co. Dublin, Ireland

Banque Magnetique SAS 
Paris Nord 2, Parc des Reflets,  
99 Avenue de la Pyramide, 
95700, Roissy en France 

Principal activity 

Contact details

Holding and divisional management company 

Procurement, sales, marketing and distribution  
of computer software and peripherals 

Procurement, sales, marketing and distribution 
of DVDs and computer games and accessories 

Tel: +353 1 2799 400
Fax: +353 1 2831 017
Email: sercom@dcc.ie
www.sercomdistribution.com

Tel: +44 1279 822 800
Fax: +44 1279 416 228
Email: info@gem.co.uk
www.gem.co.uk

Tel: +353 1 2826 444
Fax: +353 1 2826 532
www.msegroup.ie

Procurement, sales, marketing and distribution 
of computer peripherals and accessories 

Tel: +33 1 49 90 93 93
Fax: + 33 1 49 90 93 07
Email: c.dupont@banquemagnetique.fr
www.banquemagnetique.fr

Comtrade SAS 
300 rue du Président Salvador Allende,   of audio visual and consumer electronics products  www.comtrade.fr
92700 Colombes, France

Procurement, sales, marketing and distribution 

Tel: +33 1 56 47 04 70

Reseller
Micro Peripherals Limited 
Shorten Brook Way,  
Altham Business Park, Altham,  
Accrington, Lancashire BB5 5YJ, England 

Procurement, sales, marketing and distribution 
of computer products 

Advent Data Limited 
Unit H4 Premier Way,  
Lowfields Business Park,  
Elland HX5 9HF, England 

Sharptext Limited 
M50 Business Park, 
Ballymount Road Upper,  
Dublin 12, Ireland 

Enterprise 
Altimate Group SAS 
Energy Park IV,  
34 Avenue de l’Europe 
78140 Velizy, France 

Supply Chain Management
SerCom Solutions Limited 
M50 Business Park,  
Ballymount Road Upper,  
Dublin 12, Ireland 

Procurement, sales, marketing and distribution 
of electronic office supplies 

Procurement, sales, marketing and distribution 
of computer products 

Distribution of enterprise infrastructure products 
in France, Iberia & Benelux 

Tel: +44 1282 776 776
Fax: +44 1282 770 001
Email: enquiries@micro-p.com
www.micro-p.com

Tel: +44 871 222 3844
Fax: +44 871 222 3855
Email: sales@adventdata.co.uk
www.adventdata.co.uk

Tel: +353 1 4087 171
Fax: +353 1 4193 111
Email: sharptext@sharptext.com
www.sharptext.com

Tel: +33 1 34 58 47 00
Fax: + 33 1 34 58 47 27
Email: info@altimate-group.com
www.altimate-group.com

Provision of supply chain management and 
procurement services 

Tel: +353 1 4056 500
Fax: +353 1 4056 555
Email: kevin.vaughan@sercomsolutions.com
www.sercomsolutions.com

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

133

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
Group Directory (continued)

DCC Healthcare
Company name & address 

DCC Healthcare Limited 
DCC House, Brewery Road, 
Stillorgan, Blackrock, 
Co. Dublin, Ireland 

Hospital Supplies & Services 
Fannin Limited 
Fannin House,  
South County Business Park, 
Leopardstown, Dublin 18, Ireland 

Fannin (UK) Limited 
42-46 Booth Drive, Park Farm South, 
Wellingborough, 
Northamptonshire, NN8 6GT 

Squadron Medical Limited 
Unit A, Griffen Close 
Ireland Industrial Estate, Staveley, 
Chesterfield S43 3LJ, England

Principal activity 

Contact details

Holding and divisional management company 

Sales, marketing, distribution and other services 
to healthcare providers and medical and 
pharma brand owners/manufacturers 

Sales, marketing, distribution and other services 
to healthcare providers and medical and 
pharma brand owners/manufacturers 

Tel: +353 1 2799 400
Fax: +353 1 2831 017
Email: healthcare@dcc.ie
www.dcc.ie

Tel: +353 1 2907 000
Fax: +353 1 2954 777
Email: information@fannin.ie
www.fannin.ie

Tel: +44 1189 305333
Fax: +44 1189 305111
Email: enquiries@fanninuk.com
www.fanninuk.com

Provision of value-added distribution services 
to healthcare providers and brand 
owners/manufacturers

Tel: +44 1246 470 999
Fax: +44 1246 284 030

The TPS Healthcare Group Limited 
27-35 Napier Place, 
Wardpark, North Cumbernauld, 
Glasgow G68 0LL, Scotland 

Provision of value-added distribution services 
to healthcare providers and brand 
owners/manufacturers 

Tel: +44 1236 739 668
Fax: +44 1236 738 376
Email: corporate@tpshealthcare.com
www.tpshealthcare.com

Virtus Inc. 
1896 Lammers Pike, Batesville,  
IN 47006-8637, United States 

Health & Beauty Solutions  
DCC Health & Beauty Solutions 
9-12 Hardwick Road, 
Astmoor Industrial Estate, Runcorn, 
Cheshire WA7 1PH, England 

Laleham Healthcare Limited 
Sycamore Park, 
Mill Lane, Alton, 
Hampshire GU34 2PR, England 

Thompson & Capper Limited 
9-12 Hardwick Road, 
Astmoor Industrial Estate, Runcorn, 
Cheshire WA7 1PH, England 

EuroCaps Limited 
Crown Business Park, 
Dukes Town, Tredegar, 
Gwent NP22 4EF, Wales 

DCC Environmental
Company name & address 

DCC Environmental Limited 
DCC House, Brewery Road, 
Stillorgan, Blackrock, 
Co. Dublin, Ireland 

Manufactures fabric health care products, 
primarily mattresses 

Tel: +1 812 933 1121

Outsourced solutions for the health 
and beauty industry 

Development, contract manufacture and packing 
of liquids and creams for the beauty and 
consumer healthcare sectors 

Development, contract manufacture and packing 
of tablet and hard gel capsule nutraceuticals 

Development and contract manufacture of 
soft gel capsule nutraceuticals 

Tel: +44 1928 573 734
Fax: +44 1420 566 566
Email: enquiries@dcchealthandbeauty.com
www.dcchealthandbeauty.com

Tel: +44 1420 566 500
Fax: +44 1420 566 566
Email: reception@laleham-healthcare.com
www.laleham-healthcare.com

Tel: +44 1928 573 734
Fax: +44 1928 580 694
Email: enquiries@tablets2buy.com
www.tablets2buy.com

Tel: +44 1495 308 900
Fax: +44 1495 308 990
Email: info@softgels.co.uk
www.softgels.co.uk

Principal activity 

Contact details

Holding and divisional management company 

Tel: +353 1 2799 400
Fax: +353 1 2831 017
Email: environmental@dcc.ie
www.dcc.ie

134

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DCC Environmental (continued)
Company name & address 

Enva Ireland Limited 
Clonminam Industrial Estate, 
Portlaoise,  
Co. Laois, Ireland 

Wastecycle Limited 
Enviro Building, Private Road No. 4, 
Colwick Industrial Estate, 
Nottingham NG4 2JT, England 

William Tracey Limited  
49 Burnbrae Road,  
Linwood Industrial Estate, Linwood,  
Renfrewshire, PA3 3BD, Scotland 

DCC Food & Beverage
Company name & address 

DCC Food & Beverage Limited 
DCC House, Brewery Road, 
Stillorgan, Blackrock, 
Co. Dublin, Ireland 

Healthfoods
Kelkin Limited 
Unit 1, Crosslands Industrial Park, 
Ballymount Cross,  
Dublin 12, Ireland 

Indulgence 
Robert Roberts Limited 
79 Broomhill Road, 
Tallaght,  
Dublin 24, Ireland 

Bottle Green Limited 
19 New Street, 
Horsforth,  
Leeds LS18 4BH, England 

KP (Ireland) Limited * 
79 Broomhill Road, 
Tallaght,
Dublin 24, Ireland

Logistics
Allied Foods Limited 
Second Avenue, 
Cookstown Industrial Estate, 
Dublin 24, Ireland

Other
Kylemore Foods Group * 
McKee Avenue,  
Finglas,  
Dublin 11, Ireland 

* 50% owned joint venture

Principal activity 

Contact details

Specialist waste treatment/management services 

Recycling and waste management company 

Recycling and waste management company 

Tel: +353 578 678 600
Fax: +353 578 678 699
Email: info@enva.ie
www.enva.ie

Tel: +44 115 9403 111
Fax: +44 115 940 4141
Email: enquiries@wastecycle.co.uk
www.wastecycle.co.uk

Tel: +44 1505 321 000
Fax: + 44 1505 335 555
Email: info@wmtracey.co.uk
www.wmtracey.co.uk

Principal activity 

Contact details

Holding and divisional management company 

Tel: +353 1 2799 400
Fax: +353 1 2831 017
Email: foods@dcc.ie
www.dcc.ie

Procurement, sales, marketing and distribution of 
Tel: +353 1 4600 400
branded healthy foods, beverages and vms products  Fax: +353 1 4600 411

Procurement, sales, marketing and distribution of 
food and beverages 

Procurement, sales, marketing 
and distribution of wine 

Manufacture of snack foods 

Chilled and frozen food distribution 

Operation of restaurants and contract catering 

Email: info@kelkin.ie
www.kelkin.ie

Tel: +353 1 4047 300
Fax: +353 1 4047 311
Email: info@robert-roberts.ie
www.robert-roberts.ie

Tel: +44 113 2054 500
Fax: +44 113 2054 501
Email: info@bottlegreen.com
www.bottlegreen.com

Tel: +353 1 4047 300
Fax: +353 1 4047 311

Tel: +353 1 466 2600
Fax: +353 1 466 2688
Email: info@alliedfoods.ie

Tel: +353 1 814 0600
Fax: + 353 1 814 0601
Email: info@kylemore.ie
www.kylemore.ie

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

135

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shareholder Information

Share Price Data 

Share price at 9 May 
Market capitalisation at 9 May 

Share price at 31 March 
Market capitalisation at 31 March 

Share price movement during the year

- High 
- Low 

2011 
€ 
22.25
1,854m

22.47 
1,872m 

24.20 
17.30 

2010
€

19.20
1,594m

21.10
11.65

Shareholdings as at 31 March 2011
Range of shares held 

Number of accounts 

% of accounts 

Number of shares¹ 

% of shares

Over 250,000 
100,001 – 250,000 
10,000 – 100,000 
Less than 10,000 
Total 

Geographic division² 
Ireland 
UK 
North America 
Europe/Other 
Retail³ 
Total 

44 
45 
188 
2,730 
3,007 

1.5 
1.5 
6.2 
90.8 
100.0 

66,362,786 
7,335,523 
6,536,181 
3,083,507 
83,317,997 

Number of Shares¹ 
7,767,171 
27,094,593 
24,649,166 
6,703,261 
17,103,806 
83,317,997 

79.7
8.8
7.8
3.7
100.0

% of shares
9.3
32.5
29.6
8.1
20.5
100.0

1 Excludes 4,911,407 shares held as Treasury Shares

2 This represents the best estimate of the number of shares controlled by fund managers resident in the relevant geographic regions

3 Retail includes private shareholders, management and broker holdings

Share listings
DCC plc is an Irish registered company 
whose shares are traded on the Irish 
Stock Exchange and the London Stock 
Exchange. 

CREST
DCC is a member of the CREST share 
settlement system. Shareholders have the 
choice of holding their shares in electronic 
form or in the form of paper share 
certificates. Shareholders should consult 
their stockbroker if they wish to hold 
shares in electronic form. 

Dividends
DCC normally pays dividends twice yearly, 
in July and in December. Dividends are 
paid in euro to all shareholders (other 
than shareholders with addresses in the 
United Kingdom who may elect to receive 
dividends in sterling). Shareholders may 
also elect to receive dividend payments 
by electronic funds transfer directly into 
their bank accounts, rather than by 

cheque. Shareholders should contact the 
Company’s Registrar for details of these 
options.

The Company is obliged to deduct 
Dividend Withholding Tax (“DWT”) at the 
standard rate of income tax in Ireland 
(currently 20%) from dividends paid 
to its shareholders, unless a particular 
shareholder is entitled to an exemption 
from DWT and has completed and 
returned to the Company’s Registrar a 
declaration form claiming entitlement to the 
particular exemption. Exemption from DWT 
may be available to shareholders resident 
in another EU Member State or in a 
country with which the Republic of Ireland 
has a double taxation agreement in place 
and to non-individual shareholders resident 
in Ireland (for example companies, pension 
funds and charities).

An explanatory leaflet entitled “Dividend 
Withholding Tax – General Information 
Leaflet” has been published by the Irish 

Revenue Commissioners and can be 
obtained by contacting the Company’s 
Registrar. This leaflet can also be 
downloaded from the Irish Revenue 
Commissioners’ website at www.
revenue.ie. Declaration forms for claiming 
an exemption are available from the 
Company’s Registrar.

Website
Through DCC’s website, www.dcc.ie, 
stakeholders and other interested parties 
can access information on DCC in an 
easy-to-follow and user-friendly format. 
As well as information on the Group’s 
activities, users can keep up to date on 
DCC’s financial results and share price 
performance through downloadable 
reports and interactive share price tools. 
The site also provides access to archived 
financial data, annual reports, stock 
exchange announcements and investor 
presentations.

136

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Electronic communications
Following the introduction of the 
Transparency Regulations 2007, and in 
order to adopt a more environmentally 
friendly and cost-effective approach, the 
Company provides information concerning 
the Company (such as the Annual 
Report, Interim Report and Notice of 
Annual General Meeting) to shareholders 
electronically via DCC’s website, www.
dcc.ie, and only sends a printed copy 
to those shareholders who specifically 
request a copy. Shareholders who receive 
information electronically will continue 
to receive certain communications by 
post (such as share certificates, dividend 
cheques, dividend payment vouchers and 
tax vouchers). Shareholders who wish to 
alter the method by which they receive 
communications should contact the 
Company’s Registrar.

Financial calendar

•  Preliminary results announced –  

10 May 2011

Annual General Meeting, electronic 
proxy voting and CREST voting
The 2011 Annual General Meeting will 
be held at The Four Seasons Hotel, 
Simmonscourt Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 
4, Ireland on Friday 15 July 2011 at 11.00 
a.m. The Notice of Meeting together with 
an explanatory letter from the Chairman 
and a Form of Proxy accompany this 
Report.

Shareholders may lodge a Form of Proxy 
for the 2011 Annual General Meeting via 
the internet. Shareholders who wish to 
submit their proxy in this manner may do 
so by accessing the Company’s Registrar’s 
website at www.eproxyappointment.com 
and following the instructions which are set 
out on the Form of Proxy.

CREST members who wish to appoint a 
proxy or proxies via the CREST electronic 
proxy appointment service should refer to 
the notes in the Notice of Annual General 
Meeting or on the Form of Proxy.

•  Ex-dividend date for the final dividend – 

18 May 2011

•  Record date for the final dividend –  

20 May 2011

•  Interim Management Statement –  

15 July 2011

Registrar
All administrative queries about the holding 
of DCC shares should be addressed to 
the Company’s Registrar, Computershare 
Investor Services (Ireland) Limited, Heron 
House, Corrig Road, Sandyford Industrial 
Estate, Dublin 18, Ireland.

• Annual General Meeting - 15 July 2011

•  Proposed payment date for final dividend 

– 21 July 2011

Tel: + 353 1 247 5698
Fax: + 353 1 216 3151
www.investorcentre.com/ie/contactus

•  Interim results to be announced –  

8 November 2011

•  Proposed payment date for the interim 

dividend – December 2011

•  Interim Management Statement – 

February 2012

Investor relations
For investor enquiries please contact 
Redmond McEvoy, Investor Relations 
Manager, DCC plc, DCC House, Brewery 
Road, Stillorgan, Blackrock, Co Dublin, 
Ireland.

Tel: + 353 1 2799 400
Fax: + 353 1 2831 017
email: investorrelations@dcc.ie

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

137

 
Corporate Information

Registered and Head Office
DCC House
Brewery Road
Stillorgan
Blackrock
Co. Dublin
Ireland 

Auditors 
PricewaterhouseCoopers  
Chartered Accountants  
& Registered Auditors 
One Spencer Dock 
North Wall Quay 
Dublin 1 
Ireland 

Registrar
Computershare Investor Services (Ireland) 
Limited
Heron House
Corrig Road
Sandyford Industrial Estate
Dublin 18
Ireland

Bankers
Allied Irish Banks
Bank of Ireland
Barclays
BNP Paribas
Danske Bank A/S 
Deutsche Bank
ING Bank N.V.
KBC Bank
Lloyds Banking Group
National Westminster Bank plc
Rabobank
Royal Bank of Scotland
Ulster Bank

Solicitors
William Fry
Fitzwilton House
Wilton Place
Dublin 2
Ireland 

Stockbrokers
Davy
49 Dawson Street
Dublin 2
Ireland

Goodbody Stockbrokers
Ballsbridge Park
Ballsbridge
Dublin 4
Ireland

JPMorgan Cazenove Limited
10 Aldermanbury
London 
EC2V 7RF
England

138

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

 
Index

Accounting Policies 
Accounting Records  
Acquisitions and Capital Expenditure 
Adjusted Earnings per Share  
Analysis of Net Debt  
Appointment of Directors  
Approval of Financial Statements  
Attendance at Meetings  
Audit Committee 
Auditors  

Balance Sheet and Group Financing  
Basis of Consolidation  
Basis of Preparation  
Board of Directors 
Board Committees  
Board Meetings  
Board Membership  
Board Procedures  
Borrowings  
Business Combinations  
Business Ethics  
Business Reviews  
   DCC Energy 
   DCC Environmental 
   DCC Food & Beverage 
   DCC Healthcare 
   DCC SerCom 

38, 80
53
12
42
112
56
131
59
58
53

44
81
80
4, 56
5, 58
57
56
57
111
83, 89, 122
50

18
30
34
26
22

122
Capital Expenditure Commitments  
85, 109
Cash and Cash Equivalents  
43
Cash Flow  
121
Cash Generated from Operations  
56
Chairman  
6
Chairman’s Statement  
10
Chief Executive’s Review  
47
Climate Change  
Combined Code 
9
Commitments Under Operating and Finance Leases  122
45
Commodity Price Risk Management  
77
Company Balance Sheet  
79
Company Cash Flow Statement  
78
Company Statement of Changes in Equity 
77
Company Statement of Comprehensive Income 
55
Compliance Risks  
Compliance Statement  
61
Inside Front Cover
Contents  
121
Contingencies  
47
Corporate Giving 
Corporate Governance  
56
138
Corporate Information  
45
Credit Risk Management  
89
Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgments  

Deferred and Contingent Acquisition Consideration   117
113
Deferred Income Tax  
Deputy Chairman and Senior Independent Director  56
85, 110
Derivative Financial Instruments  
46
Direct Economic Value Added 
4
Directors  
68
Directors’ and Company Secretary’s Interests  
95
Directors’ Emoluments and Interests  
63
Directors’ Remuneration  
Directors’ Service Agreements  
65
Directors’ Statement pursuant  
to the Transparency Regulations 
Dividend  
Dividend Increase  
Dividends  
Divisional Highlights  

69
42
7
52, 103
11

Earnings per Ordinary Share  
Employee Share Options  
Employment  
Environmental Provisions  
Events After the Balance Sheet Date 
Exceptional Items  
Exceptionals  
External Audit  

Fair Value Estimation  
Finance Costs  
Finance Costs (Net)  
Finance Costs and Finance Income  
Finance Income  
Financial Calendar 
Financial Review  
Financial Risk and Capital Management  
Financial Risk Factors  
Financial Risk Management  
Financial Risks  
Financial Strength  
Five Year Review  
Foreign Currency  
Foreign Currency Translation  
Foreign Exchange Risk Management  
Free Cash Flow 

General Meetings 
Going Concern  
Goodwill  
Government Grants  
Graduate Recruitment Programme 
Group at a Glance  
Group Balance Sheet  
Group Cash Flow Statement  
Group Directory  
Group Income Statement  
Group Operating Profit  
Group Statement of Changes in Equity 
Group Statement of Comprehensive Income  

Health & Safety 
Hedging  
Highlights  

104
97
97
86
131
82
100
9

88
86
41
101
86
137
38
44, 125
88
88
38, 55
12
140
101
82
44
43

60
61
83, 89
88, 118
46
2
74
76
132
72
95
75
73

49
85
1

86
Income Tax  
102
Income Tax Expense  
57
Independence of Non-Executive Directors  
106
Intangible Assets  
Intangible Assets (other than Goodwill)  
84
Interest Rate Risk and Debt/Liquidity Management  45
86
Interest-Bearing Loans and Borrowings  
61
Internal Control  
137
Investor Relations 
84, 108
Inventories  
107
Investments In Associates  
108
Investments In Subsidiary Undertakings  

Key Financial Performance Indicators 
Key Performance Indicators 
   DCC Energy 
   DCC Environmental 
   DCC Food & Beverage 
   DCC Healthcare 
   DCC SerCom 

Leases  

Memorandum and Articles of Association 
Movement in Working Capital  
Net Exceptional Charge 

38

20
32
36
28
24

84

61
109
41

59
120
65
80

55
95
119
9, 13
39

87
60
53
89
54
132
103

Nomination and Governance Committee  
Non-Controlling Interests 
Non-Executive Directors’ Remuneration  
Notes to the Financial Statements  

Operational Risks and Uncertainties 
Other Operating Income/Expense  
Other Reserves  
Outlook  
Overview of Results  

Pension and Other Post Employment Obligations 
Performance Evaluation  
Political Contributions  
Post-Retirement Benefits  
Principal Risks and Uncertainties  
Principal Subsidiaries and Joint Ventures  
Profit Attributable to DCC plc  
Profit before Net Exceptional Items,  
Amortisation of Intangible Assets and Tax 
Property, Plant and Equipment  
Proportionate Consolidation of Joint Ventures 
Provision for Impairment of Trade Receivables 
Provisions  
Provisions for Liabilities and Charges  

41
82, 105
96
90
86
117

Registrar 
Related Party Transactions  
Relations with Shareholders  
Remuneration Committee  
Remuneration Policy  
Report of the Directors  
Report of the Independent Auditors  
Report on Directors’ Remuneration and Interests 
Research and Development  
Results Highlights  
Retained Earnings  
Retirement Benefit Obligations  
Return on Capital Employed  
Revenue Recognition  
Review of Activities and Events Since Year End 
Review of Remuneration Policy and Structures  

137
131
60
59, 62
62
52
70
62
53
10
120
113
42
82
52
62

Segment Information  
Segment Reporting  
Senior Management  
Share Capital 
Share Capital and Treasury Shares  
Share of Associates’ (Loss)/Profit after Tax  
Share Premium  
Share-Based Payment Transactions 
Shareholder Information  
Shareholders’ Equity  
Statement of Compliance  
Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities  
Strategic Risks and Uncertainties 
Strategy  
Substantial Shareholdings  
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies  
Sustainability Report  

90
82
14
118
52
102
119
87
136
88
80
69
54
3
53
80
46

Takeover Regulations  
Taxation  
Trade and Other Payables  
Trade and Other Receivables  

53
42, 89
85, 108
85, 108

Useful Lives for Property, Plant and Equipment  
and Intangible Assets 

Website  

90

136

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

139

5 Year Review

Group Income Statement 
Year ended 31 March 

Revenue 

Operating profit before exceptional items
and amortisation of intangible assets 
Exceptional items 
Amortisation of intangible assets 
Operating profit 
Finance costs (net) 
Share of associates’ profit/(loss) after tax 
Profit before tax 
Income tax expense 
Minority interests 
Profit attributable to owners of the Parent 

Earnings per share 
- basic (cent) 
- basic adjusted (cent) 

Dividend per share (cent) 

Dividend cover (times) 

Interest cover (times)* 

* excludes exceptional items 

Group Balance Sheet 
As at 31 March 

Non-current and current assets 
Property, plant and equipment 
Intangible assets 
Investments in associates 
Cash/derivatives 
Other assets 
Total assets 

Equity 
Non-current and current liabilities 
Borrowings/derivatives 
Retirement benefit obligations 
Other liabilities 
Total liabilities 
Total equity and liabilities 

Net debt included above 

Group Cash Flow 
Year ended 31 March 

Operating cash flow 
Capital expenditure 
Acquisitions 

Other Information 

Return on total capital employed (%) 
Working capital (days) 
Average number of employees 

140

DCC ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2011

2007 

€’m 

2008 

€’m 

2009 

€’m 

2010 

€’m 

2011

€’m

4,046.1  

5,532.0  

6,400.1  

6,725.0  

8,680.6 

140.1  
24.5  
(6.7) 
157.9  
(10.8) 
14.7  
161.8  
(20.7) 
(0.9) 
140.2  

167.2  
39.6  
(7.9) 
198.9  
(17.8) 
0.6  
181.7  
(16.5) 
(0.7) 
164.5  

180.4  
(19.9) 
(5.7) 
154.8  
(17.2) 
0.2  
137.8  
(20.9) 
(0.6) 
116.3  

192.8  
(9.8) 
(6.1) 
176.9  
(12.2) 
0.2  
164.9  
(33.2) 
(0.9) 
130.8  

229.6 
(12.6)
(11.0)
206.0 
(16.2)
(0.2)
189.6 
(43.8)
(0.7)
145.1 

174.59 
160.02 

204.28 
165.06 

142.36 
169.13 

158.76 
177.98 

174.48
203.15

49.28 

56.67 

62.34 

67.44 

74.18

3.2  

12.9  

2.9  

9.4  

2.7  

8.5  

2.6  

2.7 

17.7  

15.8 

2007 

€’m 

2008 

€’m 

2009 

€’m 

2010 

€’m 

2011

€’m

319.6  
321.4  
90.3  
340.2  
783.1  
1,854.6  

337.1  
416.9  
4.7  
512.7  
1,037.3  
2,308.7  

319.3  
443.2  
2.2  
555.4  
891.0  
2,211.1  

358.1  
595.1  
2.4  
818.2  
1,169.0  
2,942.8  

395.5 
636.1 
2.3 
788.3 
1,291.7 
3,113.9 

687.7  

742.4  

726.2  

836.9  

931.9 

440.7  
16.4  
709.8  
1,166.9  
1,854.6  

636.4  
21.9  
908.0  
1,566.3  
2,308.7  

646.1  
29.5  
809.3  
1,484.9  
2,211.1  

871.7  
23.7  
1,210.5  
2,105.9  
2,942.8  

833.5 
19.3 
1,329.2 
2,182.0 
3,113.9 

(100.5) 

(123.7) 

(90.7) 

(53.5) 

(45.2)

2007 

€’m 

127.4  
60.7  
105.7  

2008 

€’m 

129.0  
87.5  
176.6  

2009 

€’m 

304.9  
57.0  
101.7  

2010 

€’m 

297.8  
47.3  
133.6  

2011

€’m

269.6 
83.4 
78.3

2007 

2008 

2009 

2010 

2011

17.9% 
14.0  
5,653 

17.5% 
16.4  
6,638 

17.8% 
11.9  
7,182 

18.4% 
4.6  
7,396 

19.9%
4.9 
7,925

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
e

i
.

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s
e
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e
c
r
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o
s
.
w
w
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DCC plc
DCC House, Brewery Road,
Stillorgan, Blackrock,
Co. Dublin, Ireland.
Tel: + 353 1 279 9400
Fax: + 353 1 283 1017
Email: info@dcc.ie
www.dcc.ie

Annual Report and Accounts

2011