Annual Report 2019
Fresh Thinking
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COMPANY PROFILE
Financial Highlights
Empire Company Limited
(TSX: EMP.A) is a Canadian
company headquartered in
Stellarton, Nova Scotia.
Empire’s key businesses are
food retailing and related real
estate. With approximately
$25.1 billion in annual sales
and $9.6 billion in assets,
Empire and its subsidiaries,
franchisees and affiliates
employ approximately
123,000 people.
SALES
($ IN BILLIONS)
ADJUSTED EBITDA (1)
($ IN MILLIONS)
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
2009
2019
1,350
1,125
900
675
450
225
0
CAGR (3)
5.3%
CAGR (3)
3.0%
2009
2019
ADJUSTED NET EARNINGS (1)(2)
($ IN MILLIONS)
DIVIDENDS
($ PER SHARE)
600
500
400
300
200
100
0
2009
2019
600
500
400
300
200
100
0
CAGR (3)
4.6%
CAGR (3)
6.6%
2009
2019
(1) See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures & Financial Metrics” section of the Management’s
Discussion and Analysis.
(2) Net of non-controlling interest.
($ in millions, except per share amounts)
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
May 6, 2017
52 weeks ended
Sales
Operating income
Adjusted operating income(1)
EBITDA(1)
Adjusted EBITDA(1)
Net earnings(2)
per share (fully diluted)
Adjusted net earnings(1)(2)
per share (fully diluted)
Book value per common share(1)
Dividends per share
$
25,142.0
$
24,214.6
$
23,806.2
652.3
683.6
1,069.5
1,076.2
387.3
1.42
410.0
1.50
14.72
0.44
346.5
601.7
785.7
1,014.7
159.5
0.59
344.3
1.27
13.62
0.42
333.0
378.5
777.2
796.9
158.5
0.58
191.3
0.70
13.40
0.41
FRESH THINKING
Two years into Empire Company
Limited’s three-year Project
Sunrise transformation plan,
the Company is surpassing
milestones and exceeding
targets. The team continues
to make tough decisions and
stand behind them. In every
area of its operations, Empire
is shifting from an inward focus
on fixing fundamentals to an
outward, customer-centric
focus on innovating with
purpose and executing with
much more velocity.
Message from
the Chair
During fiscal 2019, the second year of our
ambitious plan to transform Empire and
return the Company to a position of
strength, the Company delivered on its
commitments to shareholders. I am very
pleased to report that performance
exceeded the Board’s expectations,
particularly on key metrics such as Project
Sunrise savings, tonnage growth, sales
growth and margin expansion. Since our
CEO Michael Medline joined the Company,
Empire’s earnings per share and share price
have each increased by more than 100%.
Quarter by quarter, with tenacity and unyielding commitment
to our strategic plan, our Company has been setting in place
the building blocks of a new Empire – a stronger platform to
compete, to innovate and to win the next generation of grocery
retail in Canada.
Those building blocks include significant progress on key
strategic initiatives, such as the push west with our Company’s
FreshCo banner where our first stores in British Columbia and
Manitoba have opened to rave reviews from customers. Our
exclusive agreement with Ocado to bring the world’s very best
integrated grocery e-commerce platform to Canada – that we
have branded Voilà – is on track to deliver its first orders to
homes in the Greater Toronto Area in the spring of 2020, and
construction of our second e-commerce site is already underway
in Montreal.
These targeted strategic initiatives also included deliberate
and bold moves such as our purchase of Farm Boy which allows
us to close the urban gap we have in Ontario and turbo-charge
our growth in this key market.
We also made important progress on key building blocks that
may be somewhat less tangible, but are perhaps even more
critical to Empire’s future. The continuing evolution of the senior
leadership team under Michael Medline, the collaboration
and strong execution of colleagues working nationally, and
the renewed confidence and vigour of the broader team, have
shifted our organization from struggling to be competitive, to
playing a winning game.
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Annual Report 2019
Empire Company Limited
As part of that shift, we have re-energized our focus on
sustainability, where we are dedicating more resources
to finding practical solutions for our customers, our
Company and our business partners that will have long-
standing benefits and positive impacts for our generation
and the next.
As a small footnote to our progress, and a testament to
the tremendous efforts of the whole team at Empire, we
were thrilled to celebrate Michael Medline’s recognition in
December as Canada’s CEO of the Year for 2018, awarded
by The Globe and Mail’s Report on Business Magazine.
On the strength of a solid top line, margin discipline, and
success in capturing the benefits of Project Sunrise on the
bottom line in fiscal 2019, along with disciplined capital
management, our Company is once again experiencing
strong, consistent cash flow generation. This has allowed
us to increase Empire’s quarterly dividend in the fourth
quarter by nine per cent.
We have also announced a share buyback program and,
in fiscal 2020, we will execute a normal course issuer bid with
the intent to repurchase up to $100 million of Empire shares.
Effective Governance
With Project Sunrise progress well on track and ahead of
schedule in many respects, the Board has determined that
governance of the transformation should return to the
strong oversight provided by our full Board and standing
sub-committees. The work of our Transformation Oversight
Committee, which has been in place the last two years
and led extremely effectively by one of our Directors,
Sue Lee, has contributed greatly to the success of our
far-reaching transformation agenda. With the mandate
of the Transformation Oversight Committee very well
executed and essentially complete, the full Board,
supported by our Audit, HR, and Corporate Governance
committees, will provide guidance as management
brings Project Sunrise home.
We are extraordinarily fortunate to have a Board that is
highly engaged, experienced and diverse. The slate of
directors we are proposing for election at this year’s annual
general meeting consists of individuals with experience in
the food business, retail, finance, e-commerce, consumer
businesses and sustainability. All of our directors are
independent except for our CEO. Ten of our independent
directors have joined our Board within the past seven years.
We continue to be proud of the fact that five of our 14
directors are female, exceeding our goal of engaging
highly capable women in at least 30 per cent of Board seats.
In addition, we are fortunate to include five members of
the Sobey family, each of whom has, in the past, served in
senior level positions within Empire or Sobeys.
The strong engagement of every team member, franchisee
and affiliate in Empire’s and Sobeys’ operations, the
unrelenting focus of our CEO and leaders across the
Company to winning the future of grocery retail, and the
keen involvement and ongoing commitment of the
Sobey family to long-term value creation are the factors
that will continue to differentiate us. These are the pillars
of strength that have underpinned our success for the
last 112 years, and the ones on which we will continue
to build for the future.
Sincerely,
signed “James M. Dickson”
James M. Dickson
Chair, Empire Company Limited
June 26, 2019
Annual Report 2019
Empire Company Limited
3
Empire Company Limited
Message from
the CEO
Shifting to
Offence.
Embracing
the Future.
Empire has great momentum and we’re
gaining speed. Through stronger execution
and innovation, we are now in a position
to win.
Q You’ve said Empire is ahead of where you
expected to be at this point in the three-year
transformation. What accomplishments would
you highlight?
Our progress is evident on so many fronts. We added almost
$1 billion in sales in fiscal 2019 with strong same-store
sales. Our margins are solid and increasing. We’ve taken
$300 million in costs out of the business to date and will
exceed our Project Sunrise savings target. And we are closing
the EBITDA gap on our competitors.
Beyond these key metrics, the accomplishment I am most
encouraged by is the solid foundation we have created over
the past two years. This is not the Company of two years
ago – or even a year ago. We are national. We are brand
focused. We are moving fast to meet the evolving needs of
our customers. We are pursuing strategies to win the next
generation of retail.
We have created the foundation on which we can confidently
and purposefully grow our Company. We are already working
on our next three-year strategic plan which will be just as
audacious as our current plan. Canadians trust us and our
brand. And the foundation we have built today will ensure
innovation remains at the centre of everything we do in the
future. Our people have worked incredibly hard to transform
our great Company over the last few years. I am so proud to
be their teammate.
We have one more year of tying off our Project Sunrise
transformation goals, but we are already looking to the
future and are well poised for growth.
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Annual Report 2019
SENSORY FRIENDLY SHOPPING
Lori Rhyno, Sobeys District Operator for Pictou County &
Truro, stands to the right of Jenny Tyler from Autism Nova
Scotia, in the Nova Scotia Legislature Library following
recognition by the Province. Lori and Tammy MacPhee,
Sobeys District Operator for PEI, have received multiple
awards for launching sensory-friendly shopping where
store teams dim lights and minimize all sounds to provide
a more welcoming environment for individuals with sensory
challenges. The initiative is rolling out across the country.
Q How are you pursuing innovation to advance
Empire’s strategic priorities?
We have a responsibility to never stop striving to be the most
innovative and best executing retailer in Canada which is
central to our vision and needs to be part of every aspect of
our business. It’s happening on so many fronts. For example,
we are pursuing targeted initiatives in data analytics and
artificial intelligence to drive smarter merchandising decisions
and more relevant customer communications, directly
supporting our ability to win in our stores and bolster our
brand. We are leveraging innovations in sustainability to get
rid of plastics, reduce food waste and lower energy costs.
We are partnering with global leaders in innovation – leveraging
the world’s most advanced online grocery platform to launch
our Voilà e-commerce solution in the Greater Toronto Area
(GTA) in 2020 and then in Quebec. We are unleashing the
innovative spirit of our 123,000 employees, embracing and
elevating ideas such as sensory-friendly shopping – the
award-winning initiative developed by two store operations
leaders in Atlantic Canada, now rolling out nationally. This
will be a long journey of innovation, but we are on the path.
Q When you talk about filling the urban gap,
Farm Boy is part of the strategy in the GTA.
Is the performance of those stores and
Farm Boy expansion plans falling in line with
your expectations?
Yes and yes. Co-CEOs Jean-Louis Bellemare and Jeff York
have done an outstanding job driving Farm Boy expansion
plans in Ontario, and the GTA in particular. Farm Boy sales
in fiscal 2019 surpassed our expectations, validating the
exceptional fit of this banner within the Empire group of
companies. We have a winning format that will allow us to
accelerate our growth in urban and suburban markets in
Ontario. We continue to keep Farm Boy store operations very
separate from Sobeys, but legions of loyal fans in the GTA
will be able to order their much-loved Farm Boy private label
products through our Voilà e-commerce solution when
it launches next spring.
VOILÀ DELIVERY
Voilà delivery vehicles will be
busy on routes throughout the
GTA in the spring of 2020 when
Empire introduces the world’s best
e-commerce grocery platform to
Canada. The branding was unveiled
in May 2019 as the team continues
to prepare for launch.
Annual Report 2019
5
Empire Company Limited MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
LAKESHORE FARMBOY
Co-CEOs Jean Louis Bellemare and Jeff York of Farm Boy with
Michael Medline, centre, outside Farm Boy Lakeshore in Toronto.
To the far left and right are Farm Boy Senior Vice Presidents,
Donny Milito and Shaun Linton.
Q The FreshCo discount banner is also expanding –
in this case to Western Canada. How are plans
progressing on that front?
It is still early days, but we are extremely pleased with store
performance and customer reaction so far. We launched
our first FreshCo locations in Western Canada in April 2019,
opening three stores in British Columbia, followed by two
stores in Winnipeg in May, and our first two Chalo! FreshCo
stores opened in British Columbia in July. Eleven more
FreshCo stores are slated to open in Western Canada in fiscal
2020, as we continue on the path to converting 25% of our
poorer performing Safeway and Sobeys stores to FreshCo
locations in markets that are better suited to discount.
The Western Canadian stores are all branded with the
distinctive new FreshCo 2.0 look and feel, and updated
merchandising program, which are also being rolled out
to all 95 FreshCo stores in Ontario with consistently positive
customer response.
Q You are someone who places great importance
on brand and leveraging the strength of brand
to build strong ties to customers. What progress
has the team made this past year?
Since Sobeys was founded in 1907, we have remained
steadfast in our commitment to Canadians. And I believe
we are one of a few iconic Canadian brands that continues
to reflect the bonds and aspirations of modern families. This
summer, for example, we re-launched the Sobeys banner
brand with the new tagline “Canada’s family grocery store”
in TV and social media campaigns. It resonates with our
customers and falls in line with the innate characteristics
that differentiate Sobeys banner stores nationally from our
competitors. This same work is being done for all our major
banners, creating a family of unique brands but with shared
bonds – just like a family.
In virtually every community across this country, Canadians
look to us to be there for them. They have high expectations
of us and we will remain committed to meeting those
expectations across every one of our banners. We will continue
to evolve our brand, and ensure we are doing everything
possible to give customers compelling reasons
to shop us first.
Q Speaking of community, what stands out for you
in the way the Company invests in communities?
In Empire’s very fibre, support of the community is ingrained.
That feeling emanates from the great Sobey family over our
112-year history. I think first and foremost of the amazing
things our store, warehouse and office teammates do to give
back – raising and donating funds, never hesitating to lend a
helping hand. Proudly serving our communities is one of our
most cherished values. From our Quebec IGA franchisees,
customers and suppliers raising millions for the Fondation
Charles Bruneau, to our wonderful partnership with Special
Olympics Canada where our nutrition education programming
is the first of its kind in the global movement, to year-round,
community-by-community support for local food banks and
meal programs, there are thousands of ways we show up to
make a difference, week after week, year after year.
Q Do you have any final comments?
Innovation and execution are inextricably linked in our formula
for success. We can have all of the greatest ideas and innovation
in the world, but without equal emphasis on execution,
we simply won’t deliver. We are working hard to build the
infrastructure, the systems, the leaders, and the investments to
ensure we are executing with purpose and speed against our
vision. Now that we are positioned to grow, we are creating
a culture of continuous improvement with a laser-like focus on
the evolving needs of our customer. Our teams have never been
stronger and more ready to tackle the changes happening in
our industry. The future of grocery retail is at the end of that
path. At Empire, we are aiming to get there first.
It is my sincere belief that we have the finest Board and
Chairman, Jim Dickson, in the country. Their passion for our
business, their ability to hold us accountable, to support
the tough decisions we have had to make and their embrace
of innovation have paved the way to our recent success.
And thank you to our millions of loyal customers who shop us
every week – they are the reason we must continue to
execute and innovate.
signed “Michael Medline”
Michael Medline
President & Chief Executive Officer
Empire Company Limited
June 26, 2019
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Annual Report 2019 Directors of Empire Company Limited
Cynthia Devine(2)(5)(7)
Toronto, Ontario
Director since 2013
Chief Financial Officer,
Maple Leaf Sports &
Entertainment
James M. Dickson
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Director since 2015
Sharon Driscoll(1)
Vancouver, British Columbia
Director since 2018
Gregory Josefowicz(3)
Fennville, Michigan, USA
Director since 2016
Sue Lee(3)
Vancouver, British Columbia
Director since 2014
Chair of Empire
Company Limited
Counsel, Stewart
McKelvey
Chief Financial Officer,
Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers Inc.
Corporate Director
Corporate Director
William Linton(4)(5)(7)
Toronto, Ontario
Director since 2015
Corporate Director
Michael Medline
Toronto, Ontario
Director since 2017
Martine Reardon(1)(5)(7)
New York, New York, USA
Director since 2017
Frank C. Sobey(5)
Pictou County, Nova Scotia
Director since 2007
John R. Sobey(1)
Pictou County, Nova Scotia
Director since 1979
President & Chief Executive
Officer, Empire Company
Limited and Sobeys Inc.
Corporate Director
Corporate Director
Corporate Director
Karl R. Sobey(3)
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Director since 2001
Paul D. Sobey(5)
Pictou County, Nova Scotia
Director since 1993
Rob G.C. Sobey(3)(5)
Stellarton, Nova Scotia
Director since 1998
Corporate Director
Corporate Director
Corporate Director
Martine Turcotte(1)(6)(8)
Verdun, Québec
Director since 2012
Vice Chair, Québec, BCE
Inc. and Bell Canada
(1) Audit Committee member
(2) Audit Committee chair
(5) Corporate Governance Committee member
(6) Corporate Governance Committee chair
(3) Human Resources Committee member
(7) Nominating Committee member
(4) Human Resources Committee chair
(8) Nominating Committee chair
To learn more, please visit
www.empireco.ca/governance
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Empire Company Limited TABLE OF CONTENTS
Forward-Looking Information
Overview of the Business
Food Retailing
Investments and Other Operations
Summary Results – Fourth Quarter
Sales
Gross Profit
Operating Income
EBITDA
Finance Costs
Income Taxes
Net Earnings
Operating Results – Full Year
Sales
Gross Profit
Operating Income
EBITDA
Finance Costs
Income Taxes
Net Earnings
Financial Performance by Segment
Food Retailing
Investments and Other Operations
Quarterly Results of Operations
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Operating Activities
Investing Activities
Financing Activities
Free Cash Flow
Employee Future Benefit Obligations
Guarantees and Commitments
Consolidated Financial Condition
Key Financial Condition Measures
Shareholders’ Equity
Normal Course Issuer Bid (“NCIB”)
Accounting Standards and Policies
Changes to Accounting Standards
Adopted During Fiscal 2019
Future Standards
Critical Accounting Estimates
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Related Party Transactions
Key Management Personnel Compensation
Indemnities
Contingencies
Risk Management
Designation for Eligible Dividends
Non-GAAP Financial Measures & Financial Metrics
Financial Measures
Food Segment Reconciliations
Financial Metrics
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Management’s
Discussion
& Analysis
8
Annual Report 2019
The following is Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) of the consolidated financial results of Empire Company Limited
(“Empire” or the “Company”) (TSX EMP.A) and subsidiaries, including wholly-owned Sobeys Inc. (“Sobeys”) for the 13 and
52 weeks ended May 4, 2019 compared to the 13 and 52 weeks ended May 5, 2018. The MD&A should be read in conjunction with
the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the 52 weeks ended May 4, 2019, and the 52 weeks
ended May 5, 2018. Additional information about the Company, including the Company’s Annual Information Form, can be found
on SEDAR at www.sedar.com or on the Company’s website at www.empireco.ca.
The audited consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes are prepared in accordance with International Financial
Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”) and are reported in Canadian
dollars (“CAD”). These consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Empire and its subsidiaries and structured
entities which the Company is required to consolidate. The information contained in this MD&A is current to June 26, 2019,
unless otherwise noted.
Forward-Looking Information
This document contains forward-looking statements which are presented for the purpose of assisting the reader to contextualize
the Company’s financial position and understand management’s expectations regarding the Company’s strategic priorities,
objectives and plans. These forward-looking statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking statements
are identified by words or phrases such as “anticipates”, “expects”, “believes”, “estimates”, “intends”, “could”, “may”, “plans”,
“predicts”, “projects”, “will”, “would”, “foresees” and other similar expressions or the negative of these terms.
These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the following items:
• The Company’s expectations regarding the impact of Project Sunrise, including expected cost savings and efficiencies resulting
from this transformation initiative, the expected timing of the realization of overall and fiscal 2020 in-year incremental benefits,
and the expected $50 million overachievement of the initial $500 million target which could be impacted by several factors,
including the execution and completion of category resets, time required by the Company to complete the project as well as
the factors identified under the heading “Risk Management”;
• The FreshCo expansion in Western Canada, including the Company’s expectations regarding future operating results and
profitability, the amount and timing of expenses, and the number, location, feasibility and timing of conversions, all of which
may be impacted by construction schedules and permits, the economic environment and labour relations;
• The Company’s expectations regarding the implementation of its online grocery home delivery service which may be impacted
by the timing of launching the business, the overall customer response to the service and the performance of its business
partner, Ocado Group plc (“Ocado”);
• The Company’s plans to purchase for cancellation Non-Voting Class A shares under the normal course issuer bid which may be
impacted by market and economic conditions, availability of sellers, changes in laws and regulations, and the results of operations;
• The Company’s estimates regarding future capital expenditures which includes acquisitions of property, equipment and
investment properties as well as additions to intangibles, which may be impacted by operating results and the economic
environment; and
• The Company’s expectation that its cash and cash equivalents on hand, unutilized credit facilities and cash generated from
operating activities will enable the Company to fund future capital investments, pension plan contributions, working capital,
current funded debt obligations and ongoing business requirements, and its belief that it has sufficient funding in place
to meet these requirements and other short and long-term obligations, all of which could be impacted by changes in the
economic environment.
By its nature, forward-looking information requires the Company to make assumptions and is subject to inherent risks, uncertainties
and other factors which may cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements made. For more information
on risks, uncertainties and assumptions that may impact the Company’s forward-looking statements, please refer to the Company’s
materials filed with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities, including the “Risk Management” section.
Although the Company believes the predictions, forecasts, expectations or conclusions reflected in the forward-looking information
are reasonable, it can provide no assurance that such matters will prove correct. Readers are urged to consider the risks, uncertainties
and assumptions carefully in evaluating the forward-looking information and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such
forward-looking information. The forward-looking information in this document reflects the Company’s current expectations and is
subject to change. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements that may be made by or on behalf
of the Company other than as required by applicable securities laws.
9
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISEmpire Company Limited Overview of the Business
Empire’s key businesses and financial results are segmented into two reportable segments: (i) Food retailing; and (ii) Investments
and other operations. With approximately $25.1 billion in annual sales and $9.6 billion in assets, Empire and its subsidiaries,
franchisees and affiliates employ approximately 123,000 people.
FOOD RETAILING
Empire’s Food retailing segment is carried out through Sobeys, a wholly-owned subsidiary. Proudly Canadian, with headquarters
in Stellarton, Nova Scotia, Sobeys has been serving the food shopping needs of Canadians since 1907. Sobeys owns, affiliates or
franchises more than 1,500 stores in all 10 provinces under retail banners that include Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, Foodland, FreshCo,
Thrifty Foods, Farm Boy and Lawtons Drugs as well as more than 350 retail fuel locations.
Strategic Focus(1)
The Company has established a solid foundation and is putting in place the strategic building blocks to succeed in the medium to
long-term. The strategy will develop as the retail environment changes and as the Company continues to transform.
(i) Reset our Foundation
In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company launched Project Sunrise, a comprehensive three-year transformation intended
to simplify the organizational structure and reduce costs. The transformation was expected to yield $500 million in annualized
benefits by the end of fiscal 2020. The Company realized approximately $100 million of these benefits during fiscal 2018 through
organizational design and strategic sourcing cost reductions and improvements in store operations. In fiscal 2019, the Company
realized a further $200 million of benefits, driven by initial rollouts of category resets and cost reductions in other areas.
For fiscal 2020 – the final year of the transformation – management expects to achieve at least $250 million of in-year benefits for a
cumulative benefit of at least $550 million, putting the Company ahead of its original projections for the three-year program. These
in-year benefits for fiscal 2020 are expected to result from completion of the rollout of the category reset program in the early fall,
and continued cost reductions and operational improvements.
(ii) Bolster our Brand
The Company is focused on improving customer connection with its banner brands and differentiating these brands in a highly
competitive marketplace. During fiscal 2019, the new branding, décor packages and taglines were finalized for the Sobeys banner,
and during fiscal 2020, any required changes to the marketing and branding approach for Safeway stores will be complete.
(iii) Win in our Stores
The Company’s full service format stores are a key area of focus for management. Through category resets, a key element of Project
Sunrise, the Company has assessed all product categories nationally to ensure the stores have the items customers want most.
Category resets are well underway in the stores and are expected to be complete by the fall of 2019. Management has completed
many operational improvements in stores and the related supply chain during fiscal 2019 and expects this momentum to continue
in fiscal 2020, and result in further improvements to customer experience in the stores through improved execution, better in-stock,
shrink levels, merchandising and marketing.
(iv) Enhance Discount
The discount channel continues to be a growth area in food retailing. In fiscal 2018, Sobeys announced plans to expand its discount
format to Western Canada and expects to convert up to 25% of its 255 Safeway and Sobeys full service format stores in Western
Canada to its FreshCo discount format over the next five years. The first five Western Canada FreshCo stores opened in spring 2019
– three in British Columbia (“B.C.”) and two in Manitoba. An additional 13 stores are expected to open in B.C. throughout fiscal 2020.
(v) Win E-commerce
On May 9, 2019, the Company unveiled Voilà by Sobeys and Voilà par IGA, the name and brand for its online grocery home delivery
service for the Greater Toronto Area (“GTA”), Ottawa and cities in the province of Quebec. Sobeys, in partnership with Ocado, an
industry-leading grocery e-commerce company, is developing its first Customer Fulfillment Centre (“CFC”) in the GTA with delivery
to customers on track to test and soft launch in the spring of 2020.
Empire also announced plans to launch Voilà par IGA and its second CFC in Montreal in 2021. The Company will lease the location
from Crombie Real Estate Investment Trust (“Crombie REIT”) and Crombie REIT will build the site to Empire’s specifications.
Other Significant Items
Business Acquisition
On September 24, 2018, the Company, through a subsidiary, signed an agreement to acquire the business of Farm Boy, a food
retailer with a network of 26 stores in Ontario, for a total purchase price of $800 million. Following clearance of regulatory
conditions, the transaction closed on December 10, 2018.
(1) This section constitutes forward-looking information described under the “Forward-Looking Information” section of this MD&A.
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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISAnnual Report 2019 Farm Boy is managed as a separate company within Empire and Farm Boy’s co-CEOs, together with members of the Farm Boy
senior management team, have reinvested for a 12% interest of the continuing Farm Boy business. Concurrent with the reinvestment,
the parties entered into put and call options including the options for Sobeys to acquire the remaining 12% at any time after five
years following the acquisition date. As a result, a non-controlling interest has been recognized at the date of acquisition, as well as
a financial liability of $70 million, based on the present value of the amount payable on exercise of the non-controlling interest put
liability in accordance with IFRS 9 “Financial instruments” (“IFRS 9”). The non-controlling interest put liability is calculated based on
the amount payable upon exercise based on management’s best estimate of future earnings of Farm Boy at a predetermined date.
The initial and subsequent fair value measurement of the put liability is classified as Level 3 within the three-level hierarchy of IFRS
13 “Fair value measurement”. Subsequent remeasurement will be recorded through retained earnings.
The Company financed the transaction through a combination of cash on hand and a new $400 million senior, unsecured non-revolving
credit facility.
Labour Buyouts
On January 29, 2019, the Company implemented a labour decision provided by a Special Officer appointed by the Government in
B.C. The labour decision set terms that allow the Company to offer voluntary buyouts to B.C. Safeway employees. Employee buyouts
provide flexibility and stability for the Company to better manage labour and operational costs. As a result, the Company expensed
$35 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2019 related to the cost of employee buyouts through selling and administrative expenses.
INVESTMENTS AND OTHER OPERATIONS
Empire’s Investments and other operations segment, as of May 4, 2019, included:
1. A 41.5% (41.5% fully diluted) equity accounted interest in Crombie REIT, an Ontario registered, unincorporated, open-ended real
estate investment trust. Crombie REIT is one of the country’s leading national retail property landlords with a strategy to own,
operate and develop a portfolio of high quality grocery and drug store anchored shopping centres, freestanding stores and
mixed use developments primarily in Canada’s top urban and suburban markets; and
2. A 40.7% equity accounted interest in Genstar Development Partnership, a 48.6% equity accounted interest in Genstar Development
Partnership II, a 39.0% equity accounted interest in GDC Investments 4, L.P., a 42.1% equity accounted interest in GDC
Investments 6, L.P., a 39.0% equity accounted interest in GDC Investments 7, L.P., a 37.1% equity accounted interest in GDC
Investments 8, L.P., and a 49.0% equity accounted interest in The Fraipont Partnership (collectively referred to as “Genstar”).
Genstar is a residential property developer with operations in select markets in Ontario, Western Canada and the United States.
Summary Results – Fourth Quarter
($ in millions, except per share amounts)
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
Change
13 Weeks Ended
$
Sales
Gross profit(1)
Operating income
Adjusted operating income(1)
EBITDA(1)
Adjusted EBITDA(1)
Finance costs, net
Income tax expense
Non-controlling interest
Net earnings(2)
Adjusted net earnings(1)(2)
Basic earnings per share
Net earnings(2)
Adjusted net earnings(2)
$
6,220.4 $
1,577.5
194.2
200.3
300.1
300.1
21.2
44.1
6.8
122.1
126.5
5,886.1 $
1,451.3
110.6
139.7
217.8
240.4
25.4
11.7
2.5
71.0
93.0
334.3
126.2
83.6
60.6
82.3
59.7
(4.2)
32.4
4.3
51.1
33.5
$
$
0.45 $
0.47 $
Basic weighted average number of shares outstanding (in millions)
271.9
Diluted earnings per share
Net earnings(2)
Adjusted net earnings(2)
$
$
0.45 $
0.46 $
Diluted weighted average number of shares outstanding (in millions)
272.8
Dividend per share
$
0.1100 $
(1) See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures & Financial Metrics” section of this MD&A.
(2) Net of non-controlling interest.
0.26
0.35
271.8
0.26
0.35
272.2
0.1050
%
Change
5.7%
8.7%
75.6%
43.4%
37.8%
24.8%
(16.5)%
276.9%
172.0%
72.0%
36.0%
11
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISEmpire Company Limited
Consolidated operating results as a % of sales
Gross margin(1)
Adjusted operating income
EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted net earnings(2)
Same-store sales(1) growth
Same-store sales growth, excluding fuel
Same-store sales growth, excluding fuel and pharmacy
Effective income tax rate
(1) See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures & Financial Metrics” section of this MD&A.
(2) Net of non-controlling interest.
(3) In the current year, same-store sales growth metrics reflect the Farm Boy acquisition.
EMPIRE COMPANY LIMITED CONSOLIDATED OPERATING RESULTS
13 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
25.4%
3.2%
4.8%
4.8%
2.0%
24.7%
2.4%
3.7%
4.1%
1.6%
13 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019(3)
May 5, 2018
3.2%
3.8%
4.2%
25.5%
0.5%
0.0%
0.3%
13.7%
Empire’s results for the fourth quarter ended May 4, 2019 include Farm Boy operations. All metrics, including same-store sales,
include the consolidation of Farm Boy operations.
Sales
Sales for the quarter increased by 5.7% driven by stronger performance across the business and the incorporation of Farm Boy
results. Internal food inflation was positive and tonnage increased for the fourth consecutive quarter, the highest in almost nine
years. These increases were partially offset by store closures in Western Canada, the deflationary impact of healthcare reform on
pharmacy sales and lower fuel prices.
Gross Profit
Gross profit for the quarter increased by 8.7% primarily as a result of higher sales, the incorporation of Farm Boy results and
category reset benefits. This was partially offset by store closures in Western Canada and lower margins in the Company’s pharmacy
business. Gross margin for the quarter increased to 25.4% from 24.7% last year as a result of category reset benefits and positive
margin rate contributions from the inclusion of Farm Boy results.
Operating Income
($ in millions)
Consolidated operating income:
Food retailing
Investments and other operations:
Crombie REIT
Genstar
Other operations, net of corporate expenses
Operating income
Adjustments:
13 Weeks Ended
$
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
Change
$
164.0 $
95.2 $
68.8
22.9
1.5
5.8
30.2
10.8
3.3
1.3
15.4
$
194.2 $
110.6 $
12.1
(1.8)
4.5
14.8
83.6
(23.0)
60.6
Intangible amortization associated with the Canada Safeway acquisition
$
Costs related to Project Sunrise
Western Canada store closures
6.1 $
–
–
6.1
6.5
22.3
0.3
29.1
Adjusted operating income
$
200.3 $
139.7 $
For the quarter ended May 4, 2019, operating income increased mainly as a result of improved earnings from the food retailing
segment due to higher sales and improved margins, offset by higher selling and administrative expenses. Selling and administrative
expenses increased as a result of the inclusion of Farm Boy results, higher store and back office incentive compensation accruals
and increased marketing costs. Higher retail labour due to increased sales volume also increased selling and administrative
expenses year-over-year. These increases to selling and administrative expenses were partially offset by savings achieved by
Project Sunrise.
12
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISAnnual Report 2019
Operating income from the Investments and other operations segment increased due to the sale of a 26 property portfolio by
Crombie REIT, the related gain which resulted in an increase of $8.4 million recognized by the Company as a share of equity
earnings from Crombie REIT and $6.4 million in Other operations, reflecting reversal of previously deferred gains on disposal
on properties previously sold to Crombie REIT.
EBITDA
EBITDA increased in the fourth quarter mainly as a result of the same factors affecting operating income.
($ in millions)
EBITDA
Adjustments:
Costs related to Project Sunrise
Western Canada store closures
Adjusted EBITDA
Finance Costs
13 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
300.1 $
217.8 $
–
–
–
22.3
0.3
22.6
$
300.1 $
240.4 $
$
Change
82.3
(22.6)
59.7
For the fourth quarter ended May 4, 2019, net finance costs decreased due to increases in interest income as operating cash flows
increased, and a decrease in accretion expense on provisions. This decrease was partially offset by interest on a new $400.0 million
senior, unsecured non-revolving credit facility incurred from the closing date of the Farm Boy acquisition.
Income Taxes
The effective income tax rate for the fourth quarter ended May 4, 2019 was 25.5% compared to 13.7% in the same quarter last
year. The current quarter effective tax rate was lower than the statutory rate primarily due to capital gains on property dispositions,
including the tax impact of the disposition of a 26 property portfolio by Crombie REIT and differing tax rates of various entities.
The prior period’s effective rate was lower than the statutory rate due to an internal reorganization that the Company undertook
to simplify its corporate structure.
Net Earnings
The following is a reconciliation of net earnings to adjusted net earnings:
($ in millions, except per share amounts)
Net earnings(1)
EPS(2) (fully diluted)
Adjustments (net of income taxes):
Intangible amortization associated with the Canada Safeway acquisition
Costs related to Project Sunrise
Western Canada store closures
Adjusted net earnings(1)
Adjusted EPS(3) (fully diluted)
Diluted weighted average number of shares outstanding (in millions)
(1) Net of non-controlling interest.
(2) Earnings per share (“EPS”).
(3) See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures & Financial Metrics” section of this MD&A.
13 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
$
122.1 $
0.45 $
4.4
–
–
4.4
71.0 $
0.26
4.8
17.0
0.2
22.0
$
$
126.5 $
0.46 $
272.8
93.0 $
0.35
272.2
$
Change
51.1
(17.6)
33.5
13
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISEmpire Company Limited
Operating Results – Full Year
($ in millions, except per share amounts)
52 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019
52 Weeks Ended
May 5, 2018
52 Weeks Ended
May 6, 2017
2019 Compared to 2018
$ Change
% Change
$
25,142.0 $
24,214.6 $
23,806.2 $
6,083.6
652.3
683.6
1,069.5
1,076.2
91.6
144.3
29.1
387.3
410.0
5,900.5
346.5
601.7
785.7
1,014.7
110.5
56.2
20.3
159.5
344.3
5,707.2
333.0
378.5
777.2
796.9
118.0
42.5
14.0
158.5
191.3
927.4
183.1
305.8
81.9
283.8
61.5
(18.9)
88.1
8.8
227.8
65.7
3.8%
3.1%
88.3%
13.6%
36.1%
6.1%
(17.1)%
156.8%
43.3%
142.8%
19.1%
$
$
1.42 $
1.51 $
0.59 $
1.27 $
0.58
0.70
271.9
271.8
271.9
Sales
Gross profit
Operating income
Adjusted operating income
EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA
Finance costs, net
Income tax expense
Non-controlling interest
Net earnings(1)
Adjusted net earnings(1)
Basic earnings per share
Net earnings(1)
Adjusted net earnings(1)
Basic weighted average number
of shares outstanding (in millions)
Diluted earnings per share
Net earnings(1)
Adjusted net earnings(1)
Diluted weighted average number
of shares outstanding (in millions)
Dividend per share
$
0.44 $
0.42 $
$
$
1.42 $
1.50 $
0.59 $
1.27 $
272.6
272.1
0.58
0.70
272.0
0.41
Consolidated operating results as a % of sales
Gross margin
Adjusted operating income
EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted net earnings(1)
Same-store sales growth (decline)
Same-store sales growth (decline), excluding fuel
Same-store sales growth (decline), excluding fuel and pharmacy
Effective income tax rate
(1) Net of non-controlling interest.
(2) In the current year, same-store sales growth metrics reflect the Farm Boy acquisition.
EMPIRE COMPANY LIMITED CONSOLIDATED OPERATING RESULTS
52 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019
52 Weeks Ended
May 5, 2018
52 Weeks Ended
May 6, 2017
24.2%
2.7%
4.3%
4.3%
1.6%
24.4%
2.5%
3.2%
4.2%
1.4%
24.0%
1.6%
3.3%
3.3%
0.8%
52 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019(2)
52 Weeks Ended
May 5, 2018
52 Weeks Ended
May 6, 2017
2.8%
2.7%
3.2%
25.7%
0.8%
0.5%
0.7%
23.8%
(2.1)%
(2.2)%
(2.4)%
19.8%
Empire’s results for the fiscal year ended May 4, 2019 include Farm Boy operations as of December 10, 2018. All metrics, including
same-store sales, include the consolidation of Farm Boy operations.
Sales
Sales for the fiscal year ended May 4, 2019 increased by 3.8% driven by stronger performance across the business, the incorporation
of Farm Boy results and increased fuel prices. These increases were partially offset by the effects of store closures in Western
Canada and the deflationary impact of healthcare reform.
14
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISAnnual Report 2019
Gross Profit
Gross profit for the fiscal year ended May 4, 2019 increased by 3.1% primarily as a result of the increase in sales, the incorporation of
Farm Boy results and category reset benefits. This was partially offset by store closures in Western Canada and lower margins in the
Company’s pharmacy business due to the deflationary impact of healthcare reform. Gross margin decreased to 24.2% compared to
24.4% in the prior year as a result of lower margin fuel sales increases and the effect of sales mix between banners.
Operating Income
($ in millions)
Consolidated operating income:
Food retailing
Investments and other operations:
Crombie REIT
Genstar
Other operations, net of corporate expenses
Operating income
Adjustments:
52 Weeks Ended
$
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
Change
$
561.8 $
273.6 $
288.2
63.6
23.4
3.5
90.5
39.5
33.9
(0.5)
72.9
24.1
(10.5)
4.0
17.6
$
652.3 $
346.5 $
305.8
Intangible amortization associated with the Canada Safeway acquisition
$
24.6 $
Business acquisition costs
Costs related to Project Sunrise
Western Canada store closures
6.7
–
–
31.3
26.2
–
207.8
21.2
255.2
Adjusted operating income
$
683.6 $
601.7 $
(223.9)
81.9
Operating income from the food retailing segment increased for the fiscal year ended May 4, 2019 primarily as a result of
improvements in sales and margins, and lower selling and administrative expenses. Selling and administrative expenses were lower
due to higher costs incurred related to Project Sunrise in the prior year, the positive impact of Project Sunrise benefits achieved in
the current year, reversal of previously impaired assets in Western Canada, lower incentive compensation accruals, and a decrease
in depreciation expense. These positive impacts were partially offset by increases in minimum wage rates, the inclusion of Farm Boy
results and related acquisition costs, costs of voluntary buyouts of eligible B.C. Safeway employees and the costs associated with
the closure and conversion of stores as part of the ongoing expansion of the FreshCo discount format into Western Canada.
Operating income from the Investments and other operations segment also increased for the fiscal year ended May 4, 2019 mainly
as a result of the sale of a 26 property portfolio by Crombie REIT offset by lower equity earnings from real estate partnerships, as
subsequently discussed in the “Investment and Other Operations” section.
EBITDA
EBITDA increased for the fiscal year ended May 4, 2019 mainly as a result of the same factors affecting operating income with the
exception of the decrease in depreciation expense.
($ in millions)
EBITDA
Adjustments:
Business acquisition costs
Costs related to Project Sunrise
Western Canada store closures
52 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
1,069.5 $
785.7 $
6.7
–
–
6.7
–
207.8
21.2
229.0
Adjusted EBITDA
$
1,076.2 $
1,014.7 $
$
Change
283.8
(222.3)
61.5
15
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISEmpire Company Limited
Finance Costs
For the fiscal year ended May 4, 2019, net finance costs decreased primarily due to a decrease in interest expense and an increase
in interest income from cash and cash equivalents as operating cash flow increased, and higher coupon debt was paid down.
Interest expense decreased due to (i) the repayment of $500.0 million Series 2013-1 Notes utilizing Sobeys’ credit facility that carries
a lower interest rate, and (ii) the repayment of $100.0 million Series C Medium term notes during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2018.
This decrease in interest expense was partially offset by interest on a new $400.0 million senior, unsecured non-revolving credit
facility incurred from the closing date of the Farm Boy acquisition.
Income Taxes
The effective income tax rate for the fiscal year ended May 4, 2019 increased to 25.7% compared to 23.8% in the prior year. The
current year effective rate was lower than the statutory rate primarily due to capital gains on property dispositions, including the
tax impact of the disposition of a 26 property portfolio by Crombie REIT, and a decrease in tax liabilities related to unrecognized
tax benefits. The prior period’s effective rate was lower than the statutory rate due to an internal reorganization that the Company
undertook to simplify its corporate structure.
Net Earnings
The following is a reconciliation of net earnings to adjusted net earnings:
($ in millions, except per share amounts)
Net earnings(1)
EPS (fully diluted)
Adjustments (net of income taxes):
Intangible amortization associated with the Canada Safeway acquisition
Business acquisition costs
Costs related to Project Sunrise
Western Canada store closures
Adjusted net earnings(1)
Adjusted EPS (fully diluted)
Diluted weighted average number of shares outstanding (in millions)
(1) Net of non-controlling interest.
Financial Performance by Segment
FOOD RETAILING
52 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
$
387.3 $
159.5 $
1.42 $
0.59
$
Change
227.8
17.8
4.9
–
–
22.7
19.2
–
150.1
15.5
184.8
$
$
410.0 $
344.3 $
1.50 $
272.6
1.27
272.1
(162.1)
65.7
The following is a review of Empire’s Food retailing segment’s financial performance, comprising the consolidated results of Sobeys
Inc. for the fiscal years ended May 4, 2019, May 5, 2018 and May 6, 2017.
The following financial information is Sobeys’ contribution to Empire as the amounts are net of consolidation adjustments. For
further analysis of these adjustments, see the “Operating Results – Full Year” section.
($ in millions)
Sales
Gross profit
Operating income
Adjusted operating income
EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA
Net earnings(1)
Adjusted net earnings(1)
(1) Net of non-controlling interest.
52 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019
52 Weeks Ended
May 5, 2018
52 Weeks Ended
May 6, 2017
2019 Compared to 2018
$ Change
% Change
$
25,142.0 $
24,214.6 $
23,806.2 $
6,083.6
561.8
593.1
978.7
985.4
316.5
339.2
5,900.5
273.6
528.8
712.5
941.5
116.5
301.3
5,707.2
259.3
304.8
703.2
722.9
112.7
145.5
927.4
183.1
288.2
64.3
266.2
43.9
200.0
37.9
3.8%
3.1%
105.3%
12.2%
37.4%
4.7%
171.7%
12.6%
16
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISAnnual Report 2019
To assess its financial performance and condition, Sobeys’ management monitors a set of financial measures which evaluate sales
growth, profitability and financial condition, and are set out below.
($ in millions)
Sales growth (decline)
Same-store sales growth (decline)
Same-store sales growth (decline), excluding fuel
Same-store sales growth (decline), excluding fuel and pharmacy
Return on equity(3)
Funded debt to total capital(3)
Funded debt to adjusted EBITDA(3)
Acquisitions of property, equipment, investment property and intangibles(4)
52 Weeks Ended
52 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019(1)
May 5, 2018(2)
52 Weeks Ended
May 6, 2017
3.8%
2.8%
2.7%
3.2%
11.6%
40.2%
2.1x
1.7%
0.8%
0.5%
0.7%
5.4%
37.0%
1.7x
$
434.6 $
287.8 $
(3.3)%
(2.1)%
(2.2)%
(2.4)%
4.9%
39.5%
2.4x
524.6
(1) In the current year, same-store sales growth metrics reflect the Farm Boy acquisition.
(2) Some amounts have been adjusted as a result of the adoption of IFRS 9 on a retrospective basis. See “Accounting Standards and Policies” section for
more details.
(3) See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures & Financial Metrics” section of this MD&A.
(4) This amount reflects acquisitions of property, equipment, investment property and intangibles by Sobeys, excluding amounts purchased from the
Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries.
INVESTMENTS AND OTHER OPERATIONS
($ in millions)
Crombie REIT
Genstar
Other operations, net of corporate expenses
52 Weeks Ended
$
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
Change
$
$
63.6 $
23.4
3.5
90.5 $
39.5 $
33.9
(0.5)
72.9 $
24.1
(10.5)
4.0
17.6
For the fiscal year ended May 4, 2019, income from investments and other operations increased as a result of increased equity
earnings from Crombie REIT due to higher gains on disposal of investment properties compared to the prior year, specifically the
sale of a 26 property portfolio in the fourth quarter that contributed an additional $8.4 million to the Company’s equity earnings.
This was partially offset by lower residential lot sales in Western Canada and a prior year bulk sale of development property in the
U.S. that did not reoccur.
Investment Portfolio
At May 4, 2019, Empire’s investment portfolio, including equity accounted investments in Crombie REIT and Genstar, consisted of:
($ in millions)
Investment in associates
Crombie REIT(1)
Genstar Canadian real
estate partnerships(2)
Genstar U.S. real
estate partnerships(2)
Investment in joint ventures(2)
Fair
Value
May 4, 2019
Carrying
Value
Unrealized
Gain
Fair
Value
May 5, 2018
Carrying
Value
Unrealized
Gain
$
904.7 $
466.5 $
438.2 $
777.1 $
448.5 $
328.6
94.6
20.3
8.0
94.6
20.3
8.0
–
–
–
90.7
23.2
9.4
90.7
23.2
9.4
–
–
–
(1) Fair value is calculated based on the closing price of Crombie REIT units traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange as of May 3, 2019.
(2) Assumes fair value equals carrying value.
$
1,027.6 $
589.4 $
438.2 $
900.4 $
571.8 $
328.6
17
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISEmpire Company Limited
Quarterly Results of Operations
($ in millions, except
per share amounts)
Sales
Operating income
EBITDA(1)
Net earnings (loss)(2)
Per share information,
basic
Net earnings (loss)(2)(3)
Q4
(13 Weeks)
May 4, 2019
Q3
(13 Weeks)
Feb. 2, 2019
Q2
(13 Weeks)
Nov. 3, 2018
Q1
(13 Weeks)
Aug. 4, 2018
Q4
(13 Weeks)
May 5, 2018
Q3
(13 Weeks)
Feb. 3, 2018
Q2
(13 Weeks)
Nov. 4, 2017
Fiscal 2019
Fiscal 2018
Q1
(13 Weeks)
Aug. 5, 2017
$ 6,220.4 $ 6,247.3 $ 6,214.0 $ 6,460.3 $ 5,886.1 $ 6,029.2 $ 6,026.1 $ 6,273.2
125.2
238.8
54.0
2.6
113.0
(23.6)
108.1
216.1
58.1
110.0
214.6
65.8
110.6
217.8
71.0
173.4
276.1
103.8
174.7
278.7
95.6
194.2
300.1
122.1
$
0.45 $
0.24 $
0.38 $
0.35 $
0.26 $
0.21 $
(0.09) $
0.20
Basic weighted average
number of shares
outstanding (in millions)
271.9
271.9
271.8
271.8
271.8
271.7
271.8
271.5
Per share information,
diluted
Net earnings (loss)(2)(3)
$
0.45 $
0.24 $
0.38 $
0.35 $
0.26 $
0.21 $
(0.09) $
0.20
Diluted weighted average
number of shares
outstanding (in millions)
272.8
272.5
272.2
272.3
272.2
272.2
271.8
271.6
(1) EBITDA is reconciled to net earnings (loss) for the current and comparable period in the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures & Financial Metrics” section of
this MD&A.
(2) Net of non-controlling interest.
(3) For the 13 weeks ended November 4, 2017, the weighted average number of shares used for the purpose of basic and diluted loss per share is equal, as the
impact of all potential common shares would be anti-dilutive.
For the most recent eight quarters, results have fluctuated overall with sales consistently improving compared to the same period
in the prior year. Beginning on December 10, 2018, the Company’s results incorporate the results of Farm Boy.
Sales include fluctuations in quarter-to-quarter inflationary and deflationary market pressures. The Company does experience some
seasonality, as evidenced in the results presented above, in particular during the summer months and over the holidays when retail
sales trend higher and can result in stronger operating results. The sales, operating income, EBITDA and net earnings (loss), net of
non-controlling interest, have been influenced by one-time adjustments, other investing activities, the competitive environment, cost
management initiatives, food price and general industry trends and by other risk factors as outlined in the “Risk Management” section.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The table below highlights significant cash flow components for the relevant periods. For additional detail, please refer to the
consolidated statements of cash flows in the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended May 4, 2019.
($ in millions)
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
Change
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
Change
13 Weeks Ended
$
52 Weeks Ended
$
Cash flows from
operating activities
Cash flows (used in) from
investing activities
Cash flows (used in) from
financing activities
Increase (decrease) in
cash and cash equivalents
Operating Activities
$
373.8 $
313.5 $
60.3 $
885.6 $
879.7 $
5.9
(182.2)
33.1
(215.3)
(1,094.0)
(39.4)
(1,054.6)
(65.1)
(176.8)
111.7
133.8
(419.7)
553.5
$
126.5 $
169.8 $
(43.3) $
(74.6) $
420.6 $
(495.2)
Cash flows from operating activities for the fourth quarter increased as a result of higher cash flows from earnings and an increase in
non-cash working capital. This increase was partially offset by higher distributions in the prior year from Genstar real estate partnerships.
18
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISAnnual Report 2019
Cash flows from operating activities for the fiscal year increased as a result of higher cash flows from earnings. This increase was
partially offset by higher distributions in the prior year from Genstar real estate partnerships, a decrease in non-cash working
capital, and the drawdown of restructuring provisions due to Project Sunrise and store closures in Western Canada.
Investing Activities
The table below outlines details of investing activities of the Company for the 13 and 52 weeks ended May 4, 2019 compared to
the 13 and 52 weeks ended May 5, 2018:
($ in millions)
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
Change
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
Change
13 Weeks Ended
$
52 Weeks Ended
$
$
Acquisitions of property,
equipment, investment
property and intangibles
Proceeds on disposal of assets
Loans and other receivables
Other assets and other
long-term liabilities
Business acquisitions,
net of cash acquired
Interest received
Proceeds on redemption
of investment
Cash flows (used in)
(227.1) $
28.9
6.0
(84.0) $
113.2
(0.4)
(143.1) $
(84.3)
6.4
(434.6) $
89.7
12.0
(288.0) $
217.2
6.1
6.9
(0.8)
3.9
–
3.7
(0.6)
1.2
–
3.2
(0.2)
2.7
–
9.2
(778.6)
8.3
2.9
(3.8)
1.9
–
24.3
(24.3)
(146.6)
(127.5)
5.9
6.3
(774.8)
6.4
from investing activities
$
(182.2) $
33.1 $
(215.3) $
(1,094.0) $
(39.4) $
(1,054.6)
Cash used in investing activities for the fourth quarter increased primarily as a result of an increase in capital spending and a
decrease in proceeds on disposal of assets due to Sobeys entering into an agreement with Crombie REIT in the prior year to sell
a portfolio of 11 properties that did not reoccur in the current year.
For the fiscal year ended May 4, 2019, cash used in investing activities increased primarily due to an increase in cash used in
business acquisitions, including the acquisitions of Farm Boy and Kim Phat. The increase in cash used in investing activities was
further impacted by increased capital spending and a decline in proceeds on disposal of real estate assets from the prior year
as discussed above. Proceeds from the redemption of debentures held in Crombie REIT in the prior year of $24.3 million also
contributed to the negative cash flow trend year-over-year.
The Company invested $434.6 million in capital expenditures in fiscal 2019. Excluding the impact of capital expenditures by
companies acquired during the year, predominantly Farm Boy, the Company invested $427.3 million which was in line with
management’s previously disclosed estimate of $425.0 million. The Company expects to invest approximately $600.0 million
in its operations during fiscal 2020; this estimate includes capital estimates of approximately $70.0 million related to expansion
of the Farm Boy store network in Ontario.
The table below outlines details of investments by Sobeys in its store network during the 13 and 52 weeks ended May 4, 2019
compared to the 13 and 52 weeks ended May 5, 2018.
# of stores
Opened/relocated/acquired
Expanded
Rebannered/redeveloped
Closed
Opened – FreshCo(1)
Closed – converted or pending conversion to FreshCo(1)
Opened – Farm Boy
Acquired – Farm Boy
(1) Specific to converted Western Canada FreshCo stores.
13 Weeks Ended
52 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
11
–
1
6
3
–
–
–
9
3
2
8
–
–
–
–
37
1
5
28
3
7
2
26
41
11
24
40
–
–
–
–
In fiscal 2020, it was announced an additional 11 Safeway stores will close and be converted to the FreshCo discount format.
19
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISEmpire Company Limited
The following table shows Sobeys’ square footage changes for the quarter and fiscal year ended May 4, 2019 by type:
Square feet (in thousands)
Opened
Relocated
Acquired
Expanded
Closed
Net change before the impact of the Farm Boy acquisition & FreshCo expansion
Opened – FreshCo(1)
Opened – Farm Boy
Acquired – Farm Boy
Net change with the impact of the Farm Boy acquisition & FreshCo expansion
(1) Specific to converted Western Canada FreshCo stores.
13 Weeks Ended 52 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019
May 4, 2019
117
31
–
–
(40)
108
(33)
–
–
75
307
95
77
14
(375)
118
(33)
43
413
541
At May 4, 2019, Sobeys’ square footage totaled 40.0 million, a 1.5% increase over 39.4 million square feet operated at May 5, 2018.
Excluding the impact of Farm Boy, net store square footage increased by 0.3%.
Financing Activities
Cash used in financing activities for the fourth quarter decreased primarily due to repayment in the prior year of long-term debt,
specifically the repayment of $100.0 million Series C Medium term notes.
For the fiscal year ended May 4, 2019, cash from financing activities increased as a result of cash inflows from a new $400.0 million
senior, unsecured non-revolving credit facility to finance the acquisition of Farm Boy.
Free Cash Flow
Management uses free cash flow(1) as a measure to assess the amount of cash available for debt repayment, dividend payments and
other investing and financing activities.
($ in millions)
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
Change
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
Change
13 Weeks Ended
$
52 Weeks Ended
$
$
373.8 $
313.5 $
60.3 $
885.6 $
879.7 $
5.9
28.9
113.2
(84.3)
89.7
217.2
(127.5)
Cash flows from
operating activities
Add: proceeds on disposal
of property, equipment
and investment property
Less: acquisitions of property,
equipment, investment
property and intangibles
Free cash flow
$
175.6 $
342.7 $
(167.1) $
540.7 $
808.9 $
(227.1)
(84.0)
(143.1)
(434.6)
(288.0)
(146.6)
(268.2)
Free cash flow decreased for the quarter and fiscal year ended May 4, 2019 primarily due to an increase in capital spending
including renovations, construction of new stores, construction of an e-commerce fulfillment centre, the expansion of FreshCo into
Western Canada as well as a decrease in proceeds on the sale of property. This was offset by improved cash flows from operations.
(1) See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures & Financial Metrics” section of this MD&A.
Employee Future Benefit Obligations
For the fiscal year ended May 4, 2019, the Company contributed $19.5 million (2018 – $9.3 million) to its registered defined benefit
plans. The increase is a result of an actuarial valuation filed in the second quarter of fiscal 2019. The Company expects to contribute
approximately $12.1 million to these plans in fiscal 2020.
20
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISAnnual Report 2019
Guarantees and Commitments
The following table presents the Company’s commitments and other obligations that will come due over the next five fiscal years as
at May 4, 2019:
($ in millions)
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Thereafter
Total
Commitments
Long-term debt(1)
Finance lease liabilities(2)
Third-party operating leases, as lessee(3)
Related party operating leases,
as lessee(3)
$
Contractual obligations
Operating leases, as lessor
30.0 $
6.5
286.6
162.9
486.0
(10.5)
908.7 $
4.2
267.8
7.2 $
2.7
243.8
6.4 $
1.7
214.9
505.9 $
1.5
189.0
538.0 $ 1,996.2
29.1
2,406.6
12.5
1,204.5
163.6
1,344.3
(8.8)
164.0
417.7
(8.4)
164.7
387.7
(7.5)
166.6
863.0
(6.5)
1,596.8
2,418.6
3,351.8
(34.6)
6,850.5
(76.3)
Contractual obligations, net
$
475.5 $ 1,335.5 $
409.3 $
380.2 $
856.5 $ 3,317.2 $ 6,774.2
(1) Principal debt repayments.
(2) Present value of minimum lease payments (future minimum lease payments less interest).
(3) Net of sub-lease income.
For further information on guarantees and commitments, please see Note 15 and Note 24 of the Company’s audited annual
consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended May 4, 2019.
Consolidated Financial Condition
Key Financial Condition Measures
($ in millions, except per share and ratio calculations)
May 4, 2019(1)
May 5, 2018
May 6, 2017
Shareholders’ equity, net of non-controlling interest
Book value per common share(2)
Long-term debt, including current portion
Funded debt to total capital
Net funded debt to net total capital(2)
Funded debt to adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA to interest expense(2)
Current assets to current liabilities
Total assets
Total non-current financial liabilities
$
$
$
$
$
4,003.3 $
14.72 $
2,020.9 $
33.5%
26.8%
1.9x
12.4x
1.0x
9,602.4 $
2,838.1 $
3,702.8 $
13.62 $
1,666.9 $
31.0%
21.9%
1.6x
10.5x
0.8x
8,662.0 $
1,929.9 $
3,644.2
13.40
1,870.8
33.9%
31.3%
2.3x
7.7x
0.9x
8,695.5
2,502.1
(1) In the current year, Key Financial Condition Measures reflect the Farm Boy acquisition.
(2) See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures & Financial Metrics” section of this MD&A.
During fiscal 2019, Dominion Bond Rating Service (“DBRS”) upgraded Sobeys’ trend from stable to positive. Debt ratings assigned
by the two rating agencies at the end of the fiscal year are:
Rating Agency
DBRS
Standard & Poor’s (“S&P”)
Credit Rating (Issuer rating)
Trend/Outlook
BB (high)
BB+
Positive
Stable
On June 2, 2017, Sobeys established a senior, unsecured non-revolving credit facility for $500.0 million. The facility bears floating
interest tied to Canadian prime rate or bankers’ acceptance rates. The facility was fully utilized on August 8, 2018 to repay long-
term debt.
On December 5, 2018, Sobeys established a senior, unsecured non-revolving credit facility for $400.0 million. The facility bears
floating interest tied to Canadian prime rate or bankers’ acceptance rates. The facility was fully utilized from December 10, 2018,
with the proceeds used to fund part of the Farm Boy acquisition.
The Company believes that its cash and cash equivalents on hand, unutilized bank credit facilities and cash generated from
operating activities will enable the Company to fund future capital investments, pension plan contributions, working capital, current
funded debt obligations and ongoing business requirements. The Company also believes it has sufficient funding in place to meet
these requirements and other short and long-term financial obligations. The Company mitigates potential liquidity risk by ensuring
various sources of funds are diversified by term to maturity and source of credit.
For additional information on Empire’s long-term debt, see Note 15 of the Company’s audited annual consolidated financial
statements for the fiscal year ended May 4, 2019.
21
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISEmpire Company Limited
Shareholders’ Equity
The Company’s share capital was comprised of the following on May 4, 2019:
Authorized
2002 Preferred shares, par value of $25 each, issuable in series
Non-Voting Class A shares, without par value
Class B common shares, without par value, voting
Number of Shares
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
991,980,000
768,105,849
122,400,000
991,980,000
768,105,849
122,400,000
Issued and outstanding ($ in millions)
Number of Shares
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
Non-Voting Class A shares
Class B common shares
Shares held in trust
Total
173,661,495 $
98,138,079
(271,968)
2,040.6 $
7.3
(5.3)
2,038.2
7.3
(6.0)
$
2,042.6 $
2,039.5
The Company’s share capital on May 4, 2019 compared to the same period in the last fiscal year is shown in the table below:
(Number of Shares)
Non-Voting Class A shares
Issued and outstanding, beginning of year
Issued during year
Issued and outstanding, end of year
Shares held in trust, beginning of year
Issued for future settlement of equity settled plans
Purchased for future settlement of equity settled plans
Shares held in trust, end of year
52 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
173,547,591
113,904
173,537,901
9,690
173,661,495
173,547,591
(308,504)
40,313
(3,777)
(271,968)
(555,409)
252,588
(5,683)
(308,504)
Issued and outstanding, net of shares held in trust, end of year
173,389,527
173,239,087
Class B common shares
Issued and outstanding, beginning of year
Issued during year
Total issued and outstanding, end of year
98,138,079
–
98,138,079
–
98,138,079
98,138,079
22
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISAnnual Report 2019
The outstanding options at May 4, 2019 were granted at prices between $15.60 and $30.87 and expire between June 2021 and
June 2026 with a weighted average remaining contractual life of 4.88 years. Stock option transactions during fiscal 2019 and 2018
were as follows:
Balance, beginning of year
Granted
Exercised
Expired
Forfeited
Balance, end of year
Stock options exercisable, end of year
2019
2018
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
22.81
25.97
22.30
27.49
20.63
23.31
Number of
Options
4,686,155 $
800,573
(746,346)
(250,116)
(196,978)
4,293,288 $
2,201,160
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
24.27
19.43
22.26
25.92
23.45
22.81
Number of
Options
4,949,863 $
1,338,980
(122,805)
(749,971)
(729,912)
4,686,155 $
2,301,032
For the fiscal year ended May 4, 2019, the Company paid common dividends of $119.5 million (2018 – $114.0 million) to its equity
holders. This represents a payment of $0.44 per share (2018 – $0.42 per share) for common shareholders.
As at June 25, 2019, the Company had Non-Voting Class A and Class B common shares outstanding of 173,663,969 and 98,138,079,
respectively. Options to acquire 4,293,288 Non-Voting Class A shares were outstanding as of May 4, 2019 (May 5, 2018 – 4,686,155).
As at June 25, 2019, options to acquire 4,276,914 Non-Voting Class A shares were outstanding (June 26, 2018 – 4,659,355).
The Company established a trust fund to facilitate the purchase of Non-Voting Class A shares for the future settlement of vested
units under the Company’s equity settled stock-based compensation plans. Contributions to the trust fund and the Non-Voting
Class A shares purchased are held by AST Trust Company (Canada) as trustee. The trust fund is a structured entity and as such the
accounts of the trust fund are included on the consolidated financial statements of the Company. The following represents the
activity of shares held in trust:
Shares held in trust
Balance, beginning of year
Purchased
Issued
Balance, end of year
Normal Course Issuer Bid (“NCIB”)
Number of Shares
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
(308,504) $
(3,777)
40,313
(271,968) $
(6.0) $
(0.1)
0.8
(5.3) $
(10.7)
(0.1)
4.8
(6.0)
Subsequent to year end, on June 27, 2019 the Company filed a notice of intention with the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) to
purchase for cancellation up to 3.5 million Non-Voting Class A shares representing approximately 2.0% of those outstanding,
subject to obtaining regulatory approval. The purchases will be made through the facilities of the TSX and/or any alternative trading
systems, to the extent they are eligible. The price that Empire will pay for any such shares will be the market price at the time
of acquisition. Purchases may commence on July 2, 2019, and shall terminate not later than July 1, 2020. A copy of the notice of
intention may be obtained without charge by contacting the Company at investor.relations@empireco.ca.
The Board of Directors and senior management of Empire are of the opinion that from time to time the purchase of Non-Voting
Class A shares at the prevailing market prices is a worthwhile use of funds and in the best interests of Empire and its shareholders.
Empire acquired none of its Non-Voting Class A shares in the past 12 months under normal course issuer bids.
The average daily trading volume (the “ADTV”) of the Non-Voting Class A shares was 554,024 on the TSX over the last six
completed calendar months. Accordingly, under the policies of the TSX, Empire is entitled to purchase, during any one trading day
up to 138,506 Non-Voting Class A shares (being 25% of the ADTV of the Non-Voting Class A shares). Empire is entitled to purchase
a larger amount of Non-Voting Class A shares per calendar week, subject to the maximum number that may be acquired under the
normal course issuer bid, if the transaction meets the block purchase exception under the TSX rules.
23
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISEmpire Company Limited
Accounting Standards and Policies
The audited consolidated financial statements were prepared using the same accounting policies as disclosed in the Company’s
annual consolidated financial statements for the year ended May 5, 2018 with the exception of the following:
Changes to Accounting Standards Adopted During Fiscal 2019
(i) Revenue
The Company adopted IFRS 15 “Revenue from contracts with customers” (“IFRS 15”) effective in the first quarter of fiscal 2019.
IFRS 15 was issued in May 2014 and replaces International Accounting Standard (“IAS”) 18 “Revenue”, IAS 11 “Construction
contracts”, and related interpretations. IFRS 15 became effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018.
IFRS 15 establishes a new control-based revenue recognition model and provides a comprehensive five-step framework for
recognition, measurement, and disclosure of revenue from contracts with customers, excluding contracts within the scope of the
standards on leases, insurance contracts, and financial instruments. The Company has adopted the standard retrospectively, in
accordance with IFRS 15 transitional provisions. The implementation of IFRS 15 did not materially impact the amounts recognized
on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and no amounts have been reclassified or restated.
The Company has amended its accounting policies related to revenue recognition and revised the definition of sales as follows:
Revenue is recognized upon delivery and acceptance of the goods. Revenue is measured at the expected consideration net
of discounts and allowances. Sales include revenues from customers through corporate stores operated by the Company
and consolidated structured entities, and revenue from sales to non-structured entity franchised stores, affiliated stores and
independent accounts. Revenue received from non-structured entity franchised stores, affiliated stores and independent accounts is
mainly derived from the sale of product. The Company also collects franchise fees under two types of arrangements. Franchise fees
contractually due based on the dollar value of product shipped are recorded as revenue when the product is shipped. Franchise
fees contractually due based on the franchisee’s retail sales are recorded as revenue upon invoicing.
(ii) Financial Instruments
The Company adopted IFRS 9 which replaces the provisions of IAS 39 “Financial instruments: recognition and measurement”
(“IAS 39”), and related amendments to IFRS 7 “Financial instruments: disclosures” (“IFRS 7”) effective in the first quarter of fiscal
2019, on a retrospective basis. IFRS 9 became effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018.
The IAS 39 requirements for the classification and measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities, and impairment of
financial assets have been amended by IFRS 9. IFRS 9 also introduces a new hedge accounting model and a change in accounting
for debt modifications.
Classification and Measurement
IFRS 9 requires financial assets to be classified and measured based on both the business model for managing the asset, and the
nature of the cash flows. The classification and measurement categories for financial assets are amortized cost, fair value through
other comprehensive income (“FVOCI”), and fair value through profit or loss (“FVTPL”). The classification and measurement
categories for financial liabilities are amortized cost and FVTPL. The impacts on financial assets and liabilities upon adoption of
IFRS 9 are outlined below:
Asset/Liability
IAS 39 Classification
IAS 39 Measurement
Cash and cash equivalents
Receivables
Loans and other receivables
Derivative financial assets and liabilities
Non-derivative other assets
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Long-term debt
Loans and receivables
Loans and receivables
Loans and receivables
FVTPL
FVTPL
Other liabilities
Other liabilities
Amortized cost
Amortized cost
Amortized cost
Fair value
Fair value
Amortized cost
Amortized cost
IFRS 9 Classification
and Measurement
Amortized cost
Amortized cost
Amortized cost
FVTPL
FVTPL
Amortized cost
Amortized cost
The changes in classification and measurement did not result in changes to the carrying amounts of the Company’s financial
instruments on adoption of IFRS 9.
The Company has amended its accounting policies for the classification and measurement of financial instruments as follows:
Financial assets that are not designated as FVTPL on initial recognition are classified and measured at amortized cost if (i) they are
held within a business model whose objective is to hold assets to collect contractual cash flows, and (ii) the contractual terms give
rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest.
Debt investments that are not designated as FVTPL on initial recognition are classified and measured at FVOCI if (i) they are held
within a business model whose objective is achieved by both collecting contractual cash flows and selling financial assets, and
(ii) the contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest. Equity
investments held for trading are classified and measured at FVTPL.
Financial assets not classified at amortized cost or FVOCI are classified and measured at FVTPL.
The measurement of financial liabilities remains largely unchanged from IAS 39.
24
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISAnnual Report 2019
Impairment
IFRS 9 introduces a new expected credit loss (“ECL”) impairment model for financial assets measured at amortized cost or FVOCI,
except for equity investments. The ECL impairment model replaces the incurred loss model under IAS 39. It is no longer necessary
for a triggering event to have occurred before credit losses are recognized.
Under the IFRS 9 ECL impairment model, loss allowances are measured based on (i) ECLs that result from possible default events
within the 12 months after the reporting date (“12-month ECL”), or (ii) ECLs that result from all possible default events over the
expected life of a financial instrument (“lifetime ECLs”).
The adoption of the ECL impairment model did not have a quantitative impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
The Company has amended its accounting policies for the impairment of financial instruments as follows:
The Company recognizes loss allowances on its trade receivables based on lifetime ECLs. Loss allowances are recognized on loans
and other receivables for which the credit risk has not increased significantly since initial recognition based on the 12-month ECL.
Where there is a significant increase in the credit risk of loans and other receivables subsequent to initial recognition, the Company
recognizes loss allowances based on lifetime ECLs.
The Company considers past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts affecting collectability
when determining whether the credit risk of a financial asset has increased significantly since initial recognition, or in estimating
lifetime ECLs.
Hedge Accounting
IFRS 9 introduces a new hedge accounting model that aligns hedge accounting relationships with corresponding risk management
activities. The new hedge accounting requirements did not result in an adjustment to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Modification of Financial Liabilities
In October 2017, the IASB issued “Prepayment features with negative compensation” as an amendment to IFRS 9. The amendment
clarifies the accounting treatment for modifications of financial liabilities and requires a financial liability measured at amortized cost
to be remeasured when a modification occurs. Any resulting gain or loss is required to be recognized in profit or loss at the date of
modification. The amendment became effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. The Company adopted
the amendment on a retrospective basis effective in the first quarter of fiscal 2019, in accordance with IFRS 9 transitional provisions.
The adoption did not result in an adjustment to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Disclosure
Financial instrument disclosures continue to fall within the scope of IFRS 7. IFRS 7 has been amended by IFRS 9 to include
additional qualitative and quantitative disclosure requirements. The Company has adopted these amendments.
Future Standards
Leases
In January 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16, “Leases” (“IFRS 16”), which replaces IAS 17, “Leases” (“IAS 17”) and related interpretations.
IFRS 16 introduces a balance sheet recognition and measurement model for lessees, eliminating the distinction between operating
and finance leases except for short-term and low-value asset leases. Lessors will continue to classify leases as operating or finance
leases. The standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019.
In accordance with the transition provisions in IFRS 16, the Company will adopt the standard using the modified retrospective
approach, with the cumulative effect of initially applying the standard recognized as an adjustment to equity on transition. Prior
period comparatives will not be restated.
The adoption of IFRS 16 will have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements, given the current real
estate operating lease commitments held under IAS 17 as a lessee.
25
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISEmpire Company Limited The Company’s consolidated balance sheets will reflect current and long-term lease liabilities and right-of-use assets for property
and equipment leases where the Company is the lessee. These liabilities will be measured at the present value of the remaining
lease payments, discounted using the Company’s incremental borrowing rate on transition. The right-of-use assets will be measured
retrospectively using the Company’s incremental borrowing rate as of the date of transition. The expected range of impact on the
consolidated balance sheets is increased liabilities of $4.6 billion to $4.8 billion and increased assets of $4.0 billion to $4.2 billion.
These estimates have been updated from third quarter disclosures to reflect changes in market discount rates as well as new leases
and lease modifications incurred. Changes to the balance sheets are estimated to be as follows:
($ in millions unless otherwise stated)
Asset increases (decreases):
Current assets, excluding lease receivables
Fixed assets
Intangible assets
Deferred tax assets
Lease receivable
Right-of-use assets
Total asset estimated increase
Liability (increases) decreases:
Provisions
Debt
Other liabilities
Deferred tax liabilities
Lease liabilities
Total liability estimated increase
Retained earnings estimated decrease
$
(43.4)
(22.3)
(126.7)
(43.1)
520.0 to 570.0
3.7 to 3.9 billion
$
4.0 to 4.2 billion
$
32.1
29.1
164.4
34.5
(4.9) to (5.1) billion
$ (4.6) to (4.8) billion
$
0.5 to 0.9 billion
The Company continues to finalize estimates and inputs into the calculations. The discount rate applied is based on the Company’s
estimated incremental borrowing rate as of the transition date of May 5, 2019.
In the statements of earnings, the Company will recognize depreciation for right-of-use assets and finance expense on lease
liabilities, in place of the current straight-line operating lease expense. For finance subleases, finance income related to income
earned on lease receivables will be recognized in place of sublease income for these leases. Amortization related to off-market
lease intangibles will be replaced by depreciation expense over the term of the lease. Based on current estimates and information
available, the Company does not expect a material impact on net earnings and earnings per share in fiscal 2020.
There will be no change to the amount of cash exchanged related to lease transactions. Total expense recognized over the lease
term is equal to total cash paid over the lease term. However, expenses under IFRS 16 will be higher when leases are early in
the term as finance expense is recognized on an amortized cost basis and depreciation expense is recognized on a straight-line
basis over the lease term. The Company will classify lease payments consistently with payments on other financial liabilities in the
statement of cash flows, with lease payments for principal and interest on the lease liability classified as financing cash flows instead
of operating cash flows. Cash rent paid net for leases impacted by IFRS 16 was $500.6 million for fiscal 2019.
The Company is an intermediate lessor in several lease arrangements. Under the new standard, the Company has assessed its
classification of subleases by reference to the right-of-use asset on the head lease as required under IFRS 16, and not by reference
to the underlying asset. As a result of this change, the Company expects an increase in current and long-term lease receivables
recognized for subleases which are expected to be classified as finance leases.
The Company will apply the following practical expedients, as permitted by IFRS 16:
• applying a single discount rate to a portfolio of leases with similar characteristics;
•
relying on previous assessment of whether a lease is onerous;
• accounting for leases which end within 12 months of the date of initial application as short-term leases;
• excluding initial direct costs from the measurement of the right-of-use asset; and
• using hindsight (for example, in determining the lease term where the contract includes extension or termination options).
The Company has implemented a new national lease management system and continues to update processes and internal controls
to enable the implementation of IFRS 16, commencing in the first quarter of fiscal 2020.
26
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISAnnual Report 2019
As a result of the changes, the new standard will affect many commonly used financial ratios and performance metrics. The
following table presents a high level summary of IFRS 16 impacts on various Key Performance Indicators and financial ratios that are
discussed as non-GAAP measures:
Non-GAAP Measure
Gross profit
Adjusted operating income
EBITDA
Finance expense
Expected IFRS 16 Impact
Explanation
No impact
No IFRS 16 impact to sales or cost of sales
Increase
Increase
Increase
Rental expense removed from operating income
Lease expenses will be excluded
Interest expense on lease liability
Adjusted net earnings
Increase/Decrease
Dependent on time left on leases in portfolio and tax rate
Adjusted EPS
Free cash flow
Increase/Decrease
Dependent on net earnings impact
No impact
The Company expects the definition will be updated to
include cash rental payments
Funded debt; Net funded debt
Increase
Increases due to lease liability
Total capital; Net total capital
Increase/Decrease
Dependent on debt increases due to lease liability in
comparison to equity decreases on transition
Same-store sales
Gross margin
No impact
No impact
No IFRS 16 impact to sales
No IFRS 16 impact to sales or cost of sales
Funded debt to total capital ratio
Increase/Decrease
Net funded debt to net total capital ratio
Increase/Decrease
Dependent on debt increases due to lease liability and equity
decreases on transition
Dependent on debt increases due to lease liability and equity
decreases
Funded debt to adjusted EBITDA
Increase/Decrease
Dependent on how both debt and EBITDA increase
Adjusted EBITDA to interest expense
Increase
EBITDA increases by more than the increase in interest
Book value per common share
Decrease
Equity decreases on transition
Uncertainty Over Income Tax Treatments
The IASB issued IFRIC 23 “Uncertainty over income tax treatments” to clarify how to apply the recognition and measurement
requirements in IAS 12 “Income taxes” when there is uncertainty over tax treatments. These amendments are effective for annual
periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019. The Company does not expect a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
Critical Accounting Estimates
The preparation of consolidated financial statements, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”),
requires management to make estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated
financial statements and accompanying notes. Certain of these estimates require subjective or complex judgments by management
that may be uncertain. Some of these items include the valuation of inventories, goodwill, employee future benefits, stock-based
compensation, estimates of provisions, impairments, customer loyalty programs, useful lives of property, equipment, investment
property and intangibles for purposes of depreciation and amortization, and income taxes. Changes to these estimates could
materially impact the financial statements. These estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of current events and
actions the Company may undertake in the future. Management regularly evaluates the estimates and assumptions it uses. Actual
results could differ from these estimates.
Impairments of Goodwill and Long-Lived Assets
Management assesses impairment of non-financial assets such as investments in associates and joint ventures, goodwill, intangible
assets, property and equipment, and investment property. In assessing impairment, management estimates the recoverable amount
of each asset or cash-generating unit (“CGU”) based on expected future cash flows. When measuring expected future cash flows,
management makes assumptions about future growth of profits which relate to future events and circumstances. Actual results
could vary from these estimated future cash flows. Estimation uncertainty relates to assumptions about future operating results and
the application of an appropriate discount rate.
Goodwill is subject to impairment testing on an annual basis. The Company performed its annual assessment of goodwill
impairment during its third quarter. However, if indicators of impairment are present, the Company will review goodwill for
impairment when such indicators arise. In addition, at each reporting period, the Company reviews whether there are indicators
that the recoverable amount of long-lived assets may be less than their carrying amount.
27
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISEmpire Company Limited Goodwill and long-lived assets were reviewed for impairment by determining the recoverable amount of each CGU or groups of
CGUs to which the goodwill or long-lived assets relate. Management estimated the recoverable amount of the CGUs based on the
higher of value-in-use (“VIU”) and fair value less costs of disposal (“FVLCD”). The VIU calculations are based on expected future
cash flows. When measuring expected future cash flows, management makes key assumptions about future growth of profits which
relate to future events and circumstances. Estimation uncertainty relates to assumptions about future operating results and the
application of an appropriate discount rate. Actual results could vary from these estimates which may cause significant adjustments
to the Company’s goodwill or long-lived assets in subsequent reporting periods.
Pension Benefit Plans and Other Benefit Plans
The cost of the Company’s pension benefits for defined contribution plans are expensed at the time active employees are
compensated. The cost of defined benefit pension plans and other benefit plans is accrued based on actuarial valuations, which
are determined using the projected unit credit method pro-rated on service and management’s best estimate of salary escalation,
retirement ages, and expected growth rate of health care costs.
Current market values are used to value benefit plan assets. The obligation related to employee future benefits is measured using
current market interest rates, assuming a portfolio of Corporate AA bonds with terms to maturity that, on average, match the terms
of the obligation.
To the extent that plan amendments increase the obligation related to past service, the Company will recognize a past service cost
immediately as an expense.
In measuring its defined benefit liability, the Company will recognize all of its actuarial gains and losses immediately into other
comprehensive income. The key assumptions are disclosed in Note 17 of the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Income Taxes
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future income tax consequences attributable to temporary
differences between the financial statement carrying values of assets and liabilities and their respective income tax bases. Deferred
income tax assets or liabilities are measured using enacted or substantively enacted income tax rates expected to apply to taxable
income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The calculation of current and
deferred income taxes requires management to make estimates and assumptions and to exercise a certain amount of judgment.
The financial statement carrying values of assets and liabilities are subject to accounting estimates inherent in those balances. The
income tax bases of assets and liabilities are based upon the interpretation of income tax legislation across various jurisdictions.
The current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities are also impacted by expectations about future operating results and
the timing of reversal of temporary differences as well as possible audits of tax filings by the regulatory authorities. Management
believes it has adequately provided for income taxes based on current available information.
Changes or differences in these estimates or assumptions may result in changes to the current or deferred income tax balances on
the consolidated balance sheets.
Valuation of Inventories
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and estimated net realizable value. Significant estimation or judgment is required in
the determination of (i) estimated inventory provisions associated with vendor allowances and internal charges; (ii) estimated
inventory provisions due to spoilage and shrinkage occurring between the last physical inventory count and the balance sheet
dates; and (iii) inventories valued at retail and adjusted to cost. Changes or differences in any of these estimates may result
in changes to inventories on the consolidated balance sheets and a charge or credit to operating income in the consolidated
statements of earnings.
Provisions
Provisions are recognized when there is a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of a past event, for which it is probable
that a transfer of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation, and where a reliable estimate can be made of the
amount of the obligation. Provisions are discounted using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects the current market assessments of
the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability, if material.
Business Acquisitions
For business acquisitions, the Company applies judgment on the recognition and measurement of assets and liabilities assumed
and estimates are utilized to calculate and measure such adjustments. In measuring the fair value of an acquiree’s assets and
liabilities, management uses estimates about future cash flows and discount rates. Any measurement changes after initial
recognition would affect the measurement of goodwill, except for deferred taxes.
Supply Agreements
The Company has various long-term supply agreements for products, some of which contain minimum volume purchases.
Significant estimation and judgment is required in the determination of (i) future operating results; and (ii) forecasted purchase
volumes. When measuring whether a provision is required based on the expected future cash flows associated with fulfilling the
contract, management makes assumptions which relate to future events and circumstances. Actual results could vary from these
estimated future cash flows.
28
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISAnnual Report 2019 Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Management of the Company, which includes the President & Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Executive Vice President & Chief
Financial Officer (“CFO”), is responsible for establishing and maintaining Disclosure Controls and Procedures (“DC&P”) to provide
reasonable assurance that material information relating to the Company is made known to management by others, particularly
during the period in which the annual filings are being prepared, and that information required to be disclosed by the Company
and its annual filings, interim filings and other reports filed or submitted by it under securities legislation is recorded, processed,
summarized and reported within the time periods specified in securities legislation. The CEO and CFO have evaluated the
effectiveness of the Company’s DC&P and, based on that evaluation, the CEO and CFO have concluded that the Company’s
DC&P was effective as at May 4, 2019 and that there were no material weaknesses relating to the design or operation of the DC&P.
Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Management of the Company, which includes the CEO and CFO, is responsible for establishing and maintaining Internal Control
over Financial Reporting (“ICFR”), as that term is defined in National Instrument 52-109, “Certification of Disclosure in Issuers’
Annual and Interim Filings.” The control framework management used to design and assess the effectiveness of ICFR is “Internal
Control Integrated Framework (2013)” published by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
The CEO and CFO have evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s ICFR and, based on that evaluation, the CEO and CFO have
concluded that the Company’s ICFR was effective as at May 4, 2019 and that there were no material weaknesses relating to the
design or operation of the ICFR.
There have been no changes in the Company’s ICFR during the period beginning February 3, 2019 and ended May 4, 2019 that
have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s ICFR.
Related Party Transactions
The Company has related party transactions with Crombie REIT and key management personnel, including ongoing leases
and property management agreements. The Company holds a 41.5% ownership interest in Crombie REIT and accounts for its
investment using the equity method.
The Company leased certain real property from Crombie REIT during the year at amounts which in management’s opinion
approximate fair market value that would be incurred if leased from a third party. Management has determined these amounts
to be fair value based on the significant number of leases negotiated with third parties in each market it operates. The
aggregate net payments under these leases, which are measured at exchange amounts, totaled approximately $206.2 million
(2018 – $199.7 million).
Crombie REIT provides administrative and management services to the Company on a fee for service basis pursuant to a
Management Agreement effective January 1, 2016. The Management Agreement replaces the previous arrangement where
charges incurred were on a cost recovery basis.
On July 4, 2017, Crombie REIT redeemed its 5.00% Series D Convertible Unsecured Subordinate Debentures. In exchange for its
investment in the Series D convertible debentures, the Company received $24.3 million in principal and interest payments. There
was no gain or loss recognized on the redemption. During the year ended May 4, 2019, the Company received interest from
Crombie REIT of $ nil (2018 – $0.2 million).
On April 11, 2019, Crombie REIT announced an agreement to sell an 89% interest in a 26 property portfolio to a third-party
purchaser. Sobeys and Crombie REIT entered into lease amending agreements on properties disposed where Sobeys was a
lessee to secure longer contractual terms, as well as additional option terms on the sites. As consideration for these amendments,
Crombie REIT agreed to pay an aggregate amount to Sobeys over a period of three years. The lease amending agreements
became effective on April 25, 2019, the closing date of the property disposal. Sobeys has accrued a total of $9.5 million in current
and long-term receivables related to these amounts.
On September 28, 2018, Sobeys, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, sold one property to Crombie REIT for cash consideration
of $3.7 million, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $1.5 million.
On June 29, 2018, Sobeys, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, sold and leased back one property to Crombie REIT for cash
consideration of $12.5 million, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $5.6 million.
On April 6, 2018, Sobeys and its wholly-owned subsidiaries entered into an agreement with Crombie REIT to sell a portfolio of
eleven properties, nine of which were leased back. Total cash proceeds to the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries from
this transaction were $88.1 million, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $13.2 million.
On September 29, 2017, Sobeys sold one property to Crombie REIT for cash consideration of $6.4 million, resulting in a pre-tax
gain of $0.2 million.
29
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISEmpire Company Limited Key Management Personnel Compensation
Key management personnel include the Board of Directors and members of the Company’s executive team that have authority and
responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of the Company.
Key management personnel compensation is comprised of:
($ in millions)
Salaries, bonus and other short-term employment benefits
Post-employment benefits
Termination benefits
Share-based payments
52 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
13.4 $
3.4
2.8
8.6
$
28.2 $
13.3
1.5
0.8
9.8
25.4
Indemnities
The Company has agreed to indemnify its directors, officers and particular employees in accordance with the Company’s policies.
The Company maintains insurance policies that may provide coverage against certain claims.
Contingencies
The Company is subject to claims and litigation arising out of the ordinary course of business operations. The Company’s
management does not consider the exposure to such litigation to be material.
In the ordinary course of business, the Company is subject to ongoing audits by tax authorities. While the Company believes
that its tax filing positions are appropriate and supportable, from time to time certain matters are reviewed and challenged by
the tax authorities.
Risk Management
Through its operating companies and its equity-accounted investments, Empire is exposed to a number of risks in the normal
course of business that have the potential to affect operating performance.
Project Sunrise
On May 4, 2017, the Company announced a major transformation initiative to streamline the organization and enhance the
efficiency of its operations. Failure to execute change management during this transition could result in disruptions to the
operations of the business or the ability of the Company to implement and achieve its long-term strategic objectives. The
implementation of a major transformation initiative has the ability to create labour strife, negative publicity and business disruption.
There is the risk that the Company will not realize the projected annualized savings by the completion of the three year
reorganization in 2020.
Competition
Empire’s food retailing business, Sobeys, operates in a dynamic and competitive market. Other national and regional food
distribution companies, along with non-traditional competitors, such as mass merchandisers, warehouse clubs, and online retailers,
represent a competitive risk to Sobeys’ ability to attract customers and operate profitably in its markets.
Sobeys maintains a strong national presence in the Canadian retail food and food distribution industry, operating in over
900 communities in Canada. The most significant risk to Sobeys is the potential for reduced revenues and profit margins as a
result of increased competition. A failure to maintain geographic diversification to reduce the effects of localized competition
could have an adverse impact on Sobeys’ operating margins and results of operations. To successfully compete, Sobeys believes
it must be customer and market-driven, be focused on superior execution and have efficient, cost-effective operations. It also
believes it must invest in its existing store network, as well as its merchandising, marketing and operational execution to evolve its
strategic platform to better meet the needs of consumers looking for more affordable, better food options. The Company further
believes it must invest in merchandising initiatives to better forecast and respond to changing consumer trends. Any failure to
successfully execute in these areas could have a material adverse impact on Sobeys’ financial results.
30
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISAnnual Report 2019
Empire’s real estate operations, through its investment in Crombie REIT, compete with numerous other managers and owners
of real estate properties in seeking tenants and new properties to acquire. The existence of competing managers and owners
could affect their ability to: (i) acquire property in compliance with their investment criteria; (ii) lease space in their properties; and
(iii) maximize rents charged and minimize concessions granted. Commercial property revenue is also dependent on the renewal of
lease arrangements by key tenants. These factors could adversely affect the Company’s financial results and cash flows. A failure by
Crombie REIT to maintain strategic relationships with developers to ensure an adequate supply of prospective attractive properties
or to maintain strategic relationships with existing and potential tenants to help achieve high occupancy levels at each of its
properties could adversely affect the Company.
Product Safety and Security
Sobeys is subject to potential liabilities connected with its business operations, including potential liabilities and expenses
associated with product defects, food safety and product handling, including pharmaceuticals. Such liabilities may arise in
relation to the storage, distribution and display of products and, with respect to Sobeys’ private label products, in relation to
the production, packaging and design of products.
A large majority of Sobeys’ sales are generated from food products and Sobeys could be vulnerable in the event of a significant
outbreak of food-borne illness or increased public health concerns in connection with certain food products. Such an event could
materially affect Sobeys’ financial performance. Procedures are in place to manage food crises, should they occur. These procedures
are intended to identify risks, provide clear communication to employees and consumers and ensure that potentially harmful
products are removed from sale immediately. Food safety related liability exposures are insured by the Company’s insurance
program. In addition, Sobeys has food safety procedures and programs which address safe food handling and preparation
standards. However, there can be no assurance that such measures will prevent the occurrence of any such contamination, and
insurance may not be sufficient to cover any resulting financial liability or reputational harm.
Drug Regulation, Legislation and Healthcare Reform
The Company currently operates 352 in-store pharmacies and 74 freestanding pharmacies which are subject to federal, provincial,
territorial and local legislation as well as regulations governing the sale of prescription drugs. Changes to reimbursement models
used to fund prescription drugs, including the potential implementation of a national pharmacare model or failure to comply
with these laws and regulations could have a negative impact on financial performance, operations and reputation. These laws
and regulations typically regulate prescription drug coverage for public plans including patient and product eligibility as well as
elements of drug pricing and reimbursements including product cost, markup, dispensing fee, distribution allowances and in some
provinces the ability to negotiate manufacturers allowances. In some provinces, legislation requires the selling price for prescription
drugs to third-party insurance plans and cash customers will not be higher than the price established for the provincial drug plan.
In addition to reimbursement, these laws and regulations govern drug approval and distribution, allowable packaging and labeling,
marketing, handling, storage and disposal.
In fiscal 2019, provincial governments and private plans continued to implement measures to manage the cost of their drug plans,
the impact of which varied by province and by plan. The most significant of these measures implemented April 1, 2018 was the
significant price reduction of almost 70 high volume generic drugs which was the result of an agreement between the pan-Canadian
Pharmaceutical Alliance and the Canadian Generic Pharmaceutical Association on behalf of the federal, provincial and territorial
drug plans. The Council of the Federation, a joint collaboration created by the provincial premiers continues to work on cost
reduction initiatives within the pharmaceutical sector many of which are extended to the private sector. In the fall of 2017, actions by
the Alberta College of Pharmacy resulted in a ban on the ability of pharmacies to offer inducements on prescription drugs following
a number of other provinces who have implemented similar bans with the potential that more provinces will follow.
It is anticipated that healthcare reform and regulation will continue to put pressure on pharmacy reimbursement through changes
to patient and drug eligibility, prescription drug pricing including cost, dispensing fee, allowable markup, manufacturer allowance
funding, distribution as well as potential restriction around customer inducements and expanded use of preferred providers. The
Company has and will continue to identify opportunities to mitigate the negative impact these changes have on financial performance.
Free Trade
The Company is susceptible to risks associated with trade relationships between Canada and other countries including the United
States. Changes to trade agreements and tariffs between Canada and other countries could increase the costs of certain products
and some items could become unavailable thereby having a negative impact on customer experience. While the Company
can mitigate these risks to a certain extent through the use of alternative suppliers, international trade by its nature can be
unpredictable and the Company may not be able to fully mitigate the negative impact of changes in trade agreements and tariffs.
Loyalty Program
The Company utilizes a third-party loyalty program to provide additional value to customers. The decisions made by the third party
can adversely affect the reputation and financial operations of the Company. Promotional and other activities related to possible
changes in the loyalty programs must be effectively managed and coordinated to ensure a positive customer perception. Failure to
effectively manage and communicate changes to the loyalty program may negatively impact the Company’s reputation.
31
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISEmpire Company Limited Human Resources
A significant percentage of the Company’s store and distribution centre workforce, particularly in Western Canada, is unionized.
While overall the Company has and works to maintain good relationships with its employees and unions, the renegotiation of
collective agreements always presents the risk of labour disruption. The Company has consistently stated it will accept the
short-term costs of labour disruption to support a commitment to building and sustaining a competitive cost structure for the
long term. Any prolonged or widespread work stoppages or other labour disputes could have an adverse impact on the Company’s
financial results.
Effective leadership is very important to the growth and continued success of the Company. The Company develops and delivers
training programs at all levels across its various operating regions in order to improve employee knowledge and to better serve its
customers. The ability of the Company to properly develop, train and retain its employees with the appropriate skill set could affect
the Company’s future performance.
There is always a risk associated with the loss of key personnel. Succession plans have been identified for key roles including the
depth of management talent throughout the Company and its subsidiaries; these plans are overseen by the Human Resources
Committee and reviewed at least annually by the Board of Directors.
Workplace health and safety is a top priority for the Company, which has robust programs and reporting mechanisms in place
designed to ensure regulatory compliance and mitigate the risks associated with workplace injury and illness.
Operations
The success of Empire is closely tied to the performance of Sobeys’ network of retail stores. Franchisees and affiliates operate
approximately 52% of Sobeys’ retail stores. Sobeys relies on its franchisees, affiliates and corporate store management to
successfully execute retail strategies and programs.
To maintain controls over Sobeys’ brands and the quality and range of products and services offered at its stores, franchisees and
affiliates agree to purchase merchandise from Sobeys. In addition, each store agrees to comply with the policies, marketing plans
and operating standards prescribed by Sobeys. These obligations are specified under franchise and operating agreements which
expire at various times for individual franchisees and affiliates. Despite these franchise and operating agreements, Sobeys may
have limited ability to control a franchisees’ and affiliates’ business operations. A breach of these franchise and operating
agreements or operational failures by a significant number of franchisees and affiliates may adversely affect Sobeys’ reputation
and financial performance.
Technology
The Company operates extensive and complex information technology systems that are vital to the successful operation of
its business and marketing strategies. Any interruption to these systems or the information collected by them would have a
significant adverse impact on the Company, its operations and its financial results. The Company is committed to improving its
operating systems, tools and procedures in order to become more efficient and effective. The implementation of major information
technology projects carries with it various risks, including the risk of realization of functionality.
Information Management
The integrity, reliability and security of information in all its forms is critical to the Company’s daily and strategic operations.
Inaccurate, incomplete or unavailable information or inappropriate access to information could lead to incorrect financial and/
or operational reporting, poor decisions, privacy breaches or inappropriate disclosure or leaks of sensitive information. Gathering
and analyzing information regarding customers’ purchasing preferences is an important part of the Company’s strategy to attract
and retain customers and effectively compete. Any failure to maintain privacy of customer information or to comply with applicable
privacy laws or regulations could adversely affect the Company’s reputation, competitive position and results of operations.
The Company recognizes that information is a critical enterprise asset. Currently, the information management risk is managed
at the regional and national levels through the development of policies and procedures pertaining to security access, system
development, change management and problem and incident management.
Supply Chain
The Company is exposed to potential supply chain disruptions and errors that could result in obsolete merchandise or an excess
or shortage of merchandise in its retail store network. A failure to implement and maintain effective supplier selection and
procurement practices could adversely affect Sobeys’ ability to deliver desired products to customers and adversely affect the
Company’s ability to attract and retain customers. A failure to maintain an efficient supply and logistics chain may adversely affect
Sobeys’ ability to sustain and meet growth objectives and maintain margins.
Product Costs
Sobeys is a significant purchaser of food product which is at risk of cost inflation given rising commodity prices and other costs of
production to food manufacturers. Should rising costs of product materialize in excess of expectations and should Sobeys not be
able to offset such cost inflation through higher retail prices or other cost savings, there could be a negative impact on sales and
margin performance.
Economic Environment
Management continues to closely monitor economic conditions, including foreign exchange rates, interest rates, inflation,
employment rates and capital markets. Management believes that although a weakening economy has an impact on all businesses
and industries, the Company has an operational and capital structure that is sufficient to meet its ongoing business requirements.
32
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISAnnual Report 2019 Liquidity Risk
The Company’s business is dependent in part on having access to sufficient capital and financial resources to fund its growth
activities and investment in operations. Any failure to maintain adequate financial resources could impair the Company’s growth or
ability to satisfy financial obligations as they come due. The Company actively maintains committed credit facilities to ensure that it
has sufficient available funds to meet current and foreseeable future financial requirements. The Company monitors capital markets
and the related economic conditions and maintains access to debt capital markets for long-term debt issuances as deemed prudent
in order to minimize risk and optimize pricing. However, there can be no assurance that adequate capital resources will be available
in the future on acceptable terms or at all.
Interest Rate Fluctuation
The Company’s long-term debt objective is to maintain the majority of its debt at fixed interest rates. Any increase in the applicable
interest rates could increase interest expense and have a material adverse effect on the Company’s cash flow and results of
operations. There can be no assurance that risk management strategies, if any, undertaken by the Company will be effective.
Business Continuity
The Company may be subject to unexpected events and natural hazards, including severe weather events, interruption of utilities
and infrastructure or occurrence of pandemics, which could cause sudden or complete cessation of its day to day operations. The
Company has worked with industry and government sources to develop preparedness plans. However, no such plan can eliminate
the risks associated with events of this magnitude. Any failure to respond effectively or appropriately to such events could adversely
affect the Company’s operations, reputation and financial results.
Insurance
The Company and its subsidiaries are self-insured on a limited basis with respect to certain operational risks and also purchase
excess insurance coverage from financially stable third-party insurance companies. In addition to maintaining comprehensive loss
prevention programs, the Company maintains management programs to mitigate the financial impact of operational risks. Such
programs may not be effective to limit the Company’s exposure to these risks, and to the extent that the Company is self-insured
or liability exceeds applicable insurance limits, the Company’s financial position could be adversely affected.
Ethical Business Conduct
Any failure of the Company to adhere to its policies, the law or ethical business practices could significantly affect its reputation
and brands and could therefore negatively impact the Company’s financial performance. The Company’s framework for managing
ethical business conduct includes the adoption of a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics which directors and employees of the
Company are required to acknowledge and agree to on a regular basis and the Company maintains an anonymous, confidential
whistle blowing hotline. There can be no assurance that these measures will be effective to prevent violations of law or ethical
business practices.
Environmental
The Company operates its business locations across the country, including numerous fuel stations. Each of these sites has the
potential to experience environmental contamination or other issues as a result of the Company’s operations or the activities of
third parties, including neighbouring properties.
When environmental issues are identified, any required environmental site remediation is completed using appropriate, qualified
internal and external resources. The Company may be required to absorb all costs associated with such remediation, which may
be substantial.
Sobeys’ retail fuel locations operate underground storage tanks. Environmental contamination resulting from leaks or damages
to these tanks is possible. To mitigate this environmental risk, Sobeys engages in several monitoring procedures, as well as risk
assessment activities, to minimize potential environmental hazards.
These activities mitigate but do not eliminate the Company’s environmental risk, and as such, along with the risk of changes to
existing environmental protection regulatory requirements, there remains exposure for negative financial and operational impacts
to the Company in future years.
Occupational Health and Safety
The Company has developed programs to promote a healthy and safe workplace, as well as progressive employment policies
focused on the well being of the thousands of employees who work in its stores, distribution centres and offices. These policies
and programs are reviewed regularly by the Human Resources Committee of the Board of Directors.
Real Estate
The Company utilizes a capital allocation process which is focused on obtaining the most attractive real estate locations for its retail
stores, as well as for its commercial property and residential development operations, with direct or indirect Company ownership
being an important, but not overriding, consideration. The Company develops certain retail store locations on owned sites;
however, the majority of its store development is done in conjunction with external developers. The availability of high potential
new store sites and the ability to expand existing stores are therefore in large part contingent upon the successful negotiation of
operating leases with these developers and the Company’s ability to purchase high potential sites.
33
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISEmpire Company Limited Legal, Taxation and Accounting
Changes to any of the various federal and provincial laws, rules and regulations related to the Company’s business could have a
material impact on its financial results. Compliance with any proposed changes could also result in significant cost to the Company.
Failure to fully comply with various laws and rules and regulations may expose the Company to proceedings which may materially
affect its performance.
Similarly, income tax regulations and/or accounting pronouncements may be changed in ways which could negatively affect the
Company. The Company mitigates the risk of not being in compliance with the various laws and rules and regulations by monitoring
for newly adopted activities, improving technology systems and controls, improving internal controls to detect and prevent errors
and overall application of more scrutiny to ensure compliance. In the ordinary course of business, the Company is subject to
ongoing audits by tax authorities. While the Company believes that its tax filing positions are appropriate and supportable, from
time to time certain matters are reviewed and challenged by the tax authorities.
Utility and Fuel Prices
The Company is a significant consumer of electricity, other utilities and fuel. The costs of these items have been subject to
significant volatility. Unanticipated cost increases in these items could negatively affect the Company’s financial performance. A
failure to maintain effective consumption and procurement programs could adversely affect the Company’s financial results. In
addition, Sobeys operates a large number of fuel stations. Significant increases in wholesale prices or availability could adversely
affect operations and financial results of the fuel retailing business.
Credit Rating
There can be no assurance that the credit ratings assigned to the various debt instruments issued by Sobeys will remain in effect
for any given period of time or that the rating will not be lowered, withdrawn or revised by DBRS or S&P at any time. Real or
anticipated changes in credit ratings can affect the cost at which Sobeys can access the capital markets. The likelihood that Sobeys’
creditors will receive payments owing to them will depend on Sobeys’ financial health and creditworthiness. Credit ratings assigned
by a ratings agency provide an opinion of that ratings agency on the risk that an issuer will fail to satisfy its financial obligations in
accordance with the terms under which an obligation has been issued. Receipt of a credit rating provides no guarantee of Sobeys’
future creditworthiness.
Foreign Currency
The Company conducts the majority of its operating business in CAD and its foreign exchange risk is mainly limited to currency
fluctuations between the CAD, the Euro, the Great British Pound (“GBP”) and the United States Dollar (“USD”). USD purchases of
products represent approximately 4.5% of Sobeys’ total annual purchases. Euro and GBP purchases are primarily limited to specific
contracts for capital expenditures. A failure to adequately manage the risk of exchange rate changes could adversely affect the
Company’s financial results.
Capital Allocation
It is important that capital allocation decisions result in an appropriate return on capital. The Company has a number of strong
mitigation strategies in place regarding the allocation of capital, including the Board of Directors’ review of significant capital
allocation decisions.
Seasonality
The Company’s operations as they relate to food, specifically inventory levels, sales volume and product mix, are impacted to some
degree by certain holiday periods in the year.
Foreign Operations
The Company has certain foreign operations. The Company’s foreign operations are limited to a produce sourcing operation and
residential real estate partnerships based in the United States.
Pension Plans
The Company has certain retirement benefit obligations under its registered defined benefit plans. New regulations and market-
driven changes may result in the Company being required to make contributions that differ from estimates, which could have an
adverse affect on the financial performance of the Company.
The Company participates in various multi-employer pension plans, providing pension benefits to unionized employees pursuant
to provisions in collective bargaining agreements. Approximately 16% of the employees of Sobeys and its franchisees and affiliates
participate in these plans. The responsibility of Sobeys, its franchisees, and affiliates to make contributions to these plans is limited
to the amounts established in the collective bargaining agreements and other associated agreements, however poor performance
of these plans could have a negative effect on the participating employees or could result in changes to the terms and conditions
of participation in these plans, which in turn could negatively affect the financial performance of the Company.
34
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISAnnual Report 2019 Leverage Risk
The Company’s degree of leverage could have adverse consequences for the Company. These include limiting the Company’s
ability to obtain additional financing for working capital and activities such as capital expenditures, product development, debt
service requirements, and acquisitions. Higher leveraging restricts the Company’s flexibility and discretion to operate its business
by limiting the Company’s ability to declare dividends due to having to dedicate a portion of the Company’s cash flows from
operations to the payment of interest on its existing indebtedness. Utilizing cash flows for interest payments also limits capital
available for other purposes including operations, capital expenditures and future business opportunities. Increased levels of debt
expose the Company to increased interest expense on borrowings at variable rates thereby limiting the Company’s ability to adjust
to changing market conditions. This could place the Company at a competitive disadvantage compared to its competitors that have
less debt, by making the Company vulnerable during downturns in general economic conditions and limiting the Company’s ability
to make capital expenditures that are important to its growth and strategies.
Designation for Eligible Dividends
“Eligible dividends” receive favourable treatment for income tax purposes. To be considered an eligible dividend, a dividend must
be designated as such at the time of payment.
Empire has, in accordance with the administrative position of CRA, included the appropriate language on its website to designate
the dividends paid by Empire as eligible dividends unless otherwise designated.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures & Financial Metrics
There are measures and metrics included in this MD&A that do not have a standardized meaning under generally accepted
accounting principles (“GAAP”) and therefore may not be comparable to similarly titled measures and metrics presented by other
publicly traded companies. Management believes that certain of these measures and metrics, including gross profit and EBITDA,
are important indicators of the Company’s ability to generate liquidity through operating cash flow to fund future working capital
requirements, service outstanding debt and fund future capital expenditures and uses these metrics for these purposes.
In addition, management adjusts measures and metrics, including EBITDA and net earnings in an effort to provide investors and
analysts with a more comparable year-over-year performance metric than the basic measure by excluding certain items. These items
may impact the analysis of trends in performance and affect the comparability of the Company’s core financial results. By excluding
these items, management is not implying they are non-recurring.
Financial Measures
The intent of non-GAAP Financial Measures is to provide additional useful information to investors and analysts. Non-GAAP
Financial Measures should not be considered in isolation or used as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in
accordance with GAAP. The Company’s definitions of the non-GAAP terms included in this MD&A are as follows:
• Gross profit is calculated as sales less cost of sales.
• Adjusted operating income is operating income excluding certain items to better analyze trends in performance. These
adjustments result in a truer economic representation on a comparative basis. Adjusted operating income is reconciled to
operating income in its respective subsection of the “Summary Results – Fourth Quarter” and “Operating Results – Full Year”
sections. Adjusted operating income for the Food Retailing Segment is reconciled to operating income in the “Food Segment
Reconciliations” section of this MD&A.
• Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”), is calculated as net earnings, before finance costs
(net of finance income), income tax expense, depreciation and amortization of intangibles. The exclusion of depreciation and
amortization of intangibles partially eliminates the non-cash impact from operating income.
The following table reconciles net earnings to EBITDA:
($ in millions)
Net earnings
Income tax expense
Finance costs, net
Operating income
Depreciation
Amortization of intangibles
EBITDA
13 Weeks Ended
52 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
128.9 $
44.1
21.2
194.2
84.7
21.2
73.5 $
11.7
25.4
110.6
85.6
21.6
416.4 $
144.3
91.6
652.3
333.0
84.2
$
300.1 $
217.8 $
1,069.5 $
179.8
56.2
110.5
346.5
351.8
87.4
785.7
35
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISEmpire Company Limited
• Adjusted EBITDA is EBITDA excluding certain items to better analyze trends in performance. These adjustments result in a truer
economic representation on a comparative basis. Adjusted EBITDA is reconciled to EBITDA in its respective subsection of the
“Summary Results – Fourth Quarter” and “Operating Results – Full Year” sections. Adjusted EBITDA for the Food Retailing
Segment is reconciled to EBITDA in the “Food Segment Reconciliations” section of this MD&A.
• Management calculates interest expense as interest expense on financial liabilities measured at amortized cost plus losses
on cash flow hedges reclassified from other comprehensive income or losses. Management believes that interest expense
represents a true measure of the Company’s debt service expense, without the offsetting total finance income.
The following table reconciles finance costs, net to interest expense:
($ in millions)
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
13 Weeks Ended
52 Weeks Ended
Finance costs, net
Plus: finance income
Less: net pension finance costs
Less: accretion expense on provisions
Interest expense
$
21.2 $
25.4 $
5.3
(3.1)
(0.7)
2.3
(3.2)
(2.9)
$
22.7 $
21.6 $
91.6 $
12.6
(12.0)
(5.7)
86.5 $
110.5
6.0
(11.9)
(7.7)
96.9
• Adjusted net earnings is net earnings, net of non-controlling interest, excluding certain items to better analyze trends in
performance and financial results. These adjustments result in a truer economic representation of the underlying business
on a comparative basis. Adjusted net earnings is reconciled to net earnings in its respective subsection of the “Summary
Results – Fourth Quarter” and “Operating Results – Full Year” sections. Adjusted net earnings for the Food Retailing
Segment is reconciled to net earnings in the “Food Segment Reconciliations” section of this MD&A.
• Adjusted EPS (fully diluted) is calculated as adjusted net earnings divided by diluted weighted average number of
shares outstanding.
• Free cash flow is calculated as cash flows from operating activities, plus proceeds on disposal of property, equipment and
investment property, less acquisitions of property, equipment, investment property and intangibles. Management uses free
cash flow as a measure to assess the amount of cash available for debt repayment, dividend payments and other investing
and financing activities. Free cash flow is reconciled to GAAP measures as reported on the consolidated statements of cash
flows, and is presented in the “Free Cash Flow” section of this MD&A.
• Funded debt is all interest bearing debt, which includes bank loans, bankers’ acceptances and long-term debt. Management
believes that funded debt represents the best indicator of the Company’s total financial obligations on which interest payments
are made.
• Net funded debt is calculated as funded debt less cash and cash equivalents. Management believes that the deduction of cash
and cash equivalents from funded debt represents a more accurate measure of the Company’s financial obligations after 100%
of cash and cash equivalents are applied against the total obligation.
• Total capital is calculated as funded debt plus shareholders’ equity, net of non-controlling interest.
• Net total capital is total capital less cash and cash equivalents.
The following tables reconcile the Company’s funded debt, net funded debt, net total capital and total capital to GAAP measures
as reported on the balance sheets as at May 4, 2019, May 5, 2018 and May 6, 2017, respectively:
($ in millions)
Long-term debt due within one year
Long-term debt
Funded debt
Less: cash and cash equivalents
Net funded debt
Total shareholders’ equity, net of non-controlling interest
Net total capital
($ in millions)
Funded debt
Total shareholders’ equity, net of non-controlling interest
Total capital
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
May 6, 2017
$
36.5 $
527.4 $
1,984.4
2,020.9
(553.3)
1,467.6
4,003.3
1,139.5
1,666.9
(627.9)
1,039.0
3,702.8
$
5,470.9 $
4,741.8 $
134.0
1,736.8
1,870.8
(207.3)
1,663.5
3,644.2
5,307.7
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
May 6, 2017
$
2,020.9 $
4,003.3
1,666.9 $
3,702.8
$
6,024.2 $
5,369.7 $
1,870.8
3,644.2
5,515.0
36
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISAnnual Report 2019
Food Segment Reconciliations
The following tables adjust Sobeys’ contributed operating income, EBITDA, and net earnings, net of non-controlling interest,
for certain items to better analyze trends in performance. These adjustments result in a truer economic representation on a
comparative basis.
($ in millions)
Operating income
Adjustments:
Intangible amortization associated with the Canada Safeway acquisition
Business acquisition costs
Costs related to Project Sunrise
Western Canada store closures
52 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
561.8 $
273.6 $
$
Change
288.2
24.6
6.7
–
–
31.3
26.2
–
207.8
21.2
255.2
Adjusted operating income
$
593.1 $
528.8 $
($ in millions)
EBITDA
Adjustments:
Business acquisition costs
Costs related to Project Sunrise
Western Canada store closures
52 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
978.7 $
712.5 $
6.7
–
–
6.7
–
207.8
21.2
229.0
Adjusted EBITDA
$
985.4 $
941.5 $
($ in millions)
Net earnings
Adjustments (net of income taxes):
Intangible amortization associated with the Canada Safeway acquisition
Business acquisition costs
Costs related to Project Sunrise
Western Canada store closures
Adjusted net earnings
Financial Metrics
52 Weeks Ended
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
316.5 $
116.5 $
17.8
4.9
–
–
22.7
19.2
–
150.1
15.5
184.8
$
339.2 $
301.3 $
(223.9)
64.3
$
Change
266.2
(222.3)
43.9
$
Change
200.0
(162.1)
37.9
The intent of the following non-GAAP Financial Metrics is to provide additional useful information to investors and analysts.
Management uses financial metrics for decision making, internal reporting, budgeting and forecasting. The Company’s definitions
of the metrics included in this MD&A are as follows:
• Same-store sales are sales from stores in the same location in both reporting periods. The current year same-store sales growth
metrics reflect the acquisition of Farm Boy.
• Gross margin is gross profit divided by sales. Management believes that gross margin is an important indicator of cost control
and can help management, analysts and investors assess the competitive landscape and promotional environment of the
industry in which the Company operates. An increasing percentage indicates lower cost of sales as a percentage of sales.
• Return on equity, as reported by Sobeys, is net earnings for the year attributable to owners of the parent, divided by average
shareholder’s equity.
• Funded debt to total capital ratio is funded debt divided by total capital.
• Net funded debt to net total capital ratio is net funded debt divided by net total capital. Management believes that funded
debt to total capital and net funded debt to net total capital ratios represent measures upon which the Company’s changing
capital structure can be analyzed over time. Increasing ratios would indicate that the Company is using an increasing amount
of debt in its capital structure to fund its operations.
37
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISEmpire Company Limited
• Funded debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio is funded debt divided by trailing four-quarter adjusted EBITDA. Management uses this
ratio to partially assess the financial condition of the Company. An increasing ratio would indicate that the Company is utilizing
more debt per dollar of adjusted EBITDA generated.
• Adjusted EBITDA to interest expense ratio is trailing four-quarter adjusted EBITDA divided by trailing four-quarter interest
expense. Management uses this ratio to partially assess the coverage of its interest expense on financial obligations. An
increasing ratio would indicate that the Company is generating more adjusted EBITDA per dollar of interest expense, resulting
in greater interest coverage.
• Book value per common share is shareholders’ equity, net of non-controlling interest, divided by total common shares outstanding.
The following table shows the calculation of Empire’s book value per common share as at May 4, 2019, May 5, 2018 and May 6, 2017:
($ in millions, except per share information)
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
May 6, 2017
Shareholders’ equity, net of non-controlling interest
Shares outstanding (basic)
Book value per common share
$
4,003.3 $
271.9
3,702.8 $
271.8
$
14.72 $
13.62 $
3,644.2
271.9
13.40
Additional financial information relating to Empire, including the Company’s Annual Information Form, can be found on the
Company’s website www.empireco.ca or on the SEDAR website for Canadian regulatory filings at www.sedar.com.
Approved by Board of Directors: June 26, 2019
Stellarton, Nova Scotia, Canada
38
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSISAnnual Report 2019
Consolidated Financial Statements
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Management’s Statement of Responsibility
for Financial Reporting
Independent Auditor’s Report
Consolidated Financial Statements
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Consolidated Statements of Earnings
Consolidated Statements of
Comprehensive Income
Consolidated Statements of
Changes in Shareholders’ Equity
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
40
41
43
43
44
45
46
47
48
Empire Company Limited
39
Management’s Statement of Responsibility
for Financial Reporting
Preparation of the consolidated financial statements accompanying this annual report and the presentation of all other information
in the report is the responsibility of management. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with
International Financial Reporting Standards or Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and reflect management’s best estimates
and judgments.
All other financial information in the report is consistent with that contained in the consolidated financial statements.
Management of the Company has established and maintains a system of internal control that provides reasonable assurance as to
the integrity of the consolidated financial statements, the safeguarding of Company assets, and the prevention and detection of
fraudulent financial reporting.
The Board of Directors, through its Audit Committee, oversees management in carrying out its responsibilities for financial
reporting and systems of internal control. The Audit Committee, which is chaired by and composed solely of directors who are
unrelated to, and independent of, the Company, meet regularly with financial management and external auditors to satisfy itself as
to reliability and integrity of financial information and the safeguarding of assets. The Audit Committee reports its findings to the
Board of Directors for consideration in approving the annual consolidated financial statements to be issued to shareholders.
The external auditors have full and free access to the Audit Committee.
signed “Michael Medline”
Michael Medline
President and Chief Executive Officer
June 26, 2019
signed “Michael Vels”
Michael Vels
Chief Financial Officer
June 26, 2019
40
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019
Independent Auditor’s Report
To the Shareholders of Empire Company Limited
OUR OPINION
In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position
of Empire Company Limited and its subsidiaries (together, the Company) as at May 4, 2019 and May 5, 2018, and its financial
performance and its cash flows for the 52 weeks ended May 4, 2019 and May 5, 2018 in accordance with International Financial
Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).
What we have audited
The Company’s consolidated financial statements comprise:
•
•
•
•
•
•
the consolidated balance sheets as at May 4, 2019 and May 5, 2018;
the consolidated statements of earnings for the 52 weeks ended May 4, 2019 and May 5, 2018;
the consolidated statements of comprehensive income for the 52 weeks ended May 4, 2019 and May 5, 2018;
the consolidated statements of changes in shareholders’ equity for the 52 weeks ended May 4, 2019 and May 5, 2018;
the consolidated statements of cash flows for the 52 weeks ended May 4, 2019 and May 5, 2018; and
the notes to the consolidated financial statements, which include a summary of significant accounting policies.
BASIS FOR OPINION
We conducted our audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Our responsibilities under those
standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the consolidated financial statements section of
our report.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
Independence
We are independent of the Company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the consolidated
financial statements in Canada. We have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements.
OTHER INFORMATION
Management is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the Management’s Discussion and Analysis,
which we obtained prior to the date of this auditor’s report and the information, other than the consolidated financial statements
and our auditor’s report thereon, included in the annual report, which is expected to be made available to us after that date.
Our opinion on the consolidated financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not and will not express an
opinion or any form of assurance conclusion thereon.
In connection with our audit of the consolidated financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information identified
above and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the consolidated financial statements
or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated.
If, based on the work we have performed on the other information that we obtained prior to the date of this auditor’s report, we
conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing
to report in this regard. When we read the information, other than the consolidated financial statements and our auditor’s
report thereon, included in the annual report, if we conclude that there is a material misstatement therein, we are required to
communicate the matter to those charged with governance.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF MANAGEMENT AND THOSE CHARGED WITH GOVERNANCE FOR THE CONSOLIDATED
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements in accordance with
IFRS, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of consolidated financial
statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Company’s ability to continue as a
going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless
management either intends to liquidate the Company or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.
Those charged with governance are responsible for overseeing the Company’s financial reporting process.
41
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited AUDITOR’S RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE AUDIT OF THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements as a whole are free from
material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable
assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with Canadian generally
accepted auditing standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error
and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic
decisions of users taken on the basis of these consolidated financial statements.
As part of an audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards, we exercise professional judgment and
maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit. We also:
•
Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or error,
design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to
provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one
resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal
control.
• Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the
circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control.
• Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related
disclosures made by management.
• Conclude on the appropriateness of management’s use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit
evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the
Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw
attention in our auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the consolidated financial statements or, if such disclosures are
inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s
report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Company to cease to continue as a going concern.
• Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the consolidated financial statements, including the disclosures, and
whether the consolidated financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair
presentation.
• Obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities or business activities within the
Company to express an opinion on the consolidated financial statements. We are responsible for the direction, supervision and
performance of the group audit. We remain solely responsible for our audit opinion.
We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit
and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.
We also provide those charged with governance with a statement that we have complied with relevant ethical requirements
regarding independence, and to communicate with them all relationships and other matters that may reasonably be thought to
bear on our independence, and where applicable, related safeguards.
The engagement partner on the audit resulting in this independent auditor’s report is Donald M. Flinn.
signed ”PriceWaterhouseCoopers LLP“
Chartered Professional Accountants, Licensed Public Accountants
Halifax, Nova Scotia
June 26, 2019
42
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019 Consolidated Balance Sheets
As At
(in millions of Canadian dollars)
ASSETS
Current
Cash and cash equivalents
Receivables
Inventories (Note 4)
Prepaid expenses
Loans and other receivables (Note 5)
Income taxes receivable
Assets held for sale (Note 6)
Loans and other receivables (Note 5)
Investments, at equity (Note 7)
Other assets (Note 8)
Property and equipment (Note 9)
Investment property (Note 10)
Intangibles (Note 11)
Goodwill (Note 12)
Deferred tax assets (Note 13)
LIABILITIES
Current
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Income taxes payable
Provisions (Note 14)
Long-term debt due within one year (Note 15)
Provisions (Note 14)
Long-term debt (Note 15)
Other long-term liabilities (Note 16)
Employee future benefits (Note 17)
Deferred tax liabilities (Note 13)
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Capital stock (Note 18)
Contributed surplus
Retained earnings
Accumulated other comprehensive income
Non-controlling interest
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
On Behalf of the Board
signed “James Dickson”
signed “Michael Medline”
James Dickson
Director
Michael Medline
Director
May 4,
2019
May 5,
2018
$
553.3 $
444.2
1,441.8
134.1
18.7
27.9
19.5
2,639.5
70.8
589.4
43.4
2,911.5
100.0
1,062.0
1,571.5
614.3
$
9,602.4 $
$
2,496.4 $
29.0
119.4
36.5
2,681.3
93.1
1,984.4
269.0
286.1
205.5
5,519.4
2,042.6
25.2
1,920.8
14.7
4,003.3
79.7
4,083.0
$
9,602.4 $
627.9
433.2
1,251.6
126.8
20.9
15.2
20.4
2,496.0
80.6
571.8
34.1
2,787.3
93.9
842.0
1,001.9
754.4
8,662.0
2,253.8
53.5
127.6
527.4
2,962.3
129.3
1,139.5
158.6
361.2
141.3
4,892.2
2,039.5
22.9
1,627.9
12.5
3,702.8
67.0
3,769.8
8,662.0
43
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
Consolidated Statements of Earnings
52 Weeks Ended
(in millions of Canadian dollars, except share and per share amounts)
Sales
Other income (Note 19)
Share of earnings from investments, at equity (Note 7)
Operating expenses
Cost of sales
Selling and administrative expenses
Operating income
Finance costs, net (Note 21)
Earnings before income taxes
Income tax expense (Note 13)
Net earnings
Earnings for the year attributable to:
Non-controlling interest
Owners of the Company
Earnings per share (Note 22)
Basic
Diluted
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, in millions (Note 22)
Basic
Diluted
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
$
May 4,
2019
25,142.0 $
68.3
87.9
May 5,
2018
24,214.6
61.2
74.3
19,058.4
5,587.5
18,314.1
5,689.5
652.3
91.6
560.7
144.3
$
416.4 $
$
29.1 $
387.3
$
416.4 $
$
$
1.42 $
1.42 $
271.9
272.6
346.5
110.5
236.0
56.2
179.8
20.3
159.5
179.8
0.59
0.59
271.8
272.1
44
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019
Consolidated Statements
of Comprehensive Income
52 Weeks Ended
(in millions of Canadian dollars)
Net earnings
Other comprehensive income
Items that will be reclassified subsequently to net earnings
Unrealized gains on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges
(net of taxes of $(0.2) (2018 – $(0.3)))
Unrealized losses on financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
(net of taxes of $ nil (2018 – $0.2))
Share of other comprehensive income of investments, at equity
(net of taxes of $ nil (2018 – $(0.9)))
Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations
(net of taxes of $0.2 (2018 – $(0.4)))
Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to net earnings
Actuarial gains on defined benefit plans
(net of taxes of $(18.0) (2018 – $(4.9))) (Note 17)
Total comprehensive income
Total comprehensive income for the year attributable to:
Non-controlling interest
Owners of the Company
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
May 4,
2019
$
416.4 $
0.9
–
0.2
1.1
2.2
48.1
$
466.7 $
$
29.1 $
437.6
$
466.7 $
May 5,
2018
179.8
1.2
(0.8)
2.0
(1.6)
0.8
9.6
190.2
20.3
169.9
190.2
45
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
Consolidated Statements of Changes
in Shareholders’ Equity
Accumulated
Other
Contributed Comprehensive
Income
Surplus
Capital
Stock
Retained
Earnings
Total
Attributable
to Owners
of the
Company
Non-
controlling
Interest
Total
Equity
11.7 $ 1,572.8 $ 3,644.2 $
(in millions of Canadian dollars)
Balance at May 6, 2017
Dividends declared on common shares
Equity based compensation, net
Shares held in trust, net (Note 18)
Capital transactions
with structured entities
Transactions with owners
Net earnings
Other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive
income for the year
$ 2,034.4 $
–
0.4
4.7
–
5.1
–
–
–
25.3 $
–
(2.4)
–
–
(2.4)
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
0.8
0.8
(114.0)
–
–
(114.0)
(2.0)
4.7
–
–
(114.0)
(111.3)
159.5
9.6
159.5
10.4
58.5 $ 3,702.7
(114.0)
(2.0)
4.7
–
–
–
(11.8)
(11.8)
20.3
–
(11.8)
(123.1)
179.8
10.4
169.1
169.9
20.3
190.2
Balance at May 5, 2018
$ 2,039.5 $
22.9 $
12.5 $ 1,627.9 $ 3,702.8 $
67.0 $ 3,769.8
Dividends declared on common shares
Equity based compensation, net
Shares held in trust, net (Note 18)
Capital transactions
with structured entities
Non-controlling interest recognized
on business acquisitions (Note 23)
–
2.4
0.7
–
–
–
2.3
–
–
–
Transactions with owners
3.1
2.3
Net earnings
Revaluation of put options
Other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive
income for the year
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
2.2
(119.5)
–
–
(119.5)
4.7
0.7
–
–
–
(119.5)
4.7
0.7
–
–
(16.2)
(16.2)
(12.1)
(12.1)
–
(12.1)
(131.6)
(126.2)
(16.2)
(142.4)
387.3
(10.9)
48.1
387.3
(10.9)
50.3
29.1
(0.2)
–
416.4
(11.1)
50.3
2.2
424.5
426.7
28.9
455.6
Balance at May 4, 2019
$ 2,042.6 $
25.2 $
14.7 $ 1,920.8 $ 4,003.3 $
79.7 $ 4,083.0
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
46
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
52 Weeks Ended
(in millions of Canadian dollars)
Operations
Net earnings
Adjustments for:
Depreciation
Income tax expense
Finance costs, net (Note 21)
Amortization of intangibles
Net gain on disposal of assets
Impairment of non-financial assets, net
Amortization of deferred items
Equity in earnings of other entities, net of distributions received
Employee future benefits
Increase in long-term lease obligation
(Decrease) increase in long-term provisions
Equity based compensation, net
Net change in non-cash working capital
Income taxes paid, net
Cash flows from operating activities
Investment
Property, equipment and investment property purchases
Additions to intangibles
Proceeds on disposal of assets
Loans and other receivables
Other assets and other long-term liabilities
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired (Note 23)
Interest received
Proceeds on redemption of investment
Cash flows used in investing activities
Financing
Issue of long-term debt
Repayment of long-term debt and credit facility
Advances on credit facilities
Interest paid
Acquisition of shares held in trust (Note 18)
Dividends paid, common shares
Non-controlling interest
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
May 4,
2019
May 5,
2018
$
416.4 $
179.8
333.0
144.3
91.6
84.2
(48.9)
(31.3)
1.8
(8.6)
(8.8)
2.8
(41.9)
6.7
16.5
(72.2)
885.6
(411.1)
(23.5)
89.7
12.0
9.2
(778.6)
8.3
–
(1,094.0)
58.3
(605.2)
900.0
(90.9)
(0.1)
(119.5)
(8.8)
133.8
(74.6)
627.9
$
553.3 $
351.8
56.2
110.5
87.4
(37.3)
9.2
7.2
69.1
1.5
11.2
15.8
6.9
88.1
(77.7)
879.7
(239.8)
(48.2)
217.2
6.1
2.9
(3.8)
1.9
24.3
(39.4)
63.7
(313.2)
43.1
(87.4)
(0.1)
(114.0)
(11.8)
(419.7)
420.6
207.3
627.9
47
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
May 4, 2019 (in millions of Canadian dollars, except share and per share amounts)
1. Reporting Entity
Empire Company Limited (“Empire” or the “Company”) is a Canadian company whose key businesses are food retailing and
related real estate. The Company is incorporated in Canada and the address of its registered office of business is 115 King Street,
Stellarton, Nova Scotia, B0K 1S0, Canada. The consolidated financial statements for the period ended May 4, 2019 include the
accounts of Empire, all subsidiary companies, including 100% owned Sobeys Inc. (“Sobeys”), and certain enterprises considered
structured entities (“SEs”), where control is achieved on a basis other than through ownership of a majority of voting rights.
Investments in which the Company has significant influence and its joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method.
As at May 4, 2019, the Company’s business operations were conducted through its two reportable segments: Food retailing
and Investments and other operations, as further described in Note 26, Segmented Information. The Company’s Food retailing
business is affected by seasonality and the timing of holidays. Retail sales are traditionally higher in the Company’s first quarter.
The Company’s fiscal year ends on the first Saturday in May.
2. Basis of Preparation
STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards
(“IFRS” or “GAAP”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”).
The consolidated financial statements were authorized for issue by the Board of Directors on June 26, 2019.
BASIS OF MEASUREMENT
The consolidated financial statements are prepared on the historical cost basis, except the following assets and liabilities which are
stated at their fair value: certain financial instruments (including derivatives) at fair value through profit and loss (“FVTPL”) and cash
settled stock-based compensation plans. Assets held for sale are stated at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less
costs to sell.
USE OF ESTIMATES AND JUDGMENTS
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions
that affect the amounts reported on the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Estimates and underlying
assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the
estimates are revised and in any future periods affected.
The Company has applied judgment in its assessment of the appropriateness of consolidation of SEs, the appropriateness of equity
accounting for its investments in associates and joint ventures, the classification of leases and financial instruments, the level of
componentization of property and equipment, the determination of cash generating units (“CGUs”), the identification of indicators
of impairment for property and equipment, investment property, intangible assets and goodwill, the recognition and measurement
of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, and the recognition of provisions.
Estimates, judgments and assumptions that could have a significant impact to the amounts recognized on the consolidated
financial statements are summarized below. Estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of current events and actions
the Company may undertake in the future. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
(A) INVENTORIES
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and estimated net realizable value. Significant estimation or judgment is required in the
determination of (i) estimated inventory provisions associated with vendor allowances and internal charges; (ii) estimated inventory
provisions due to spoilage and shrinkage occurring between the last physical inventory count and the balance sheet dates; and
(iii) inventories valued at retail and adjusted to cost.
48
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019 (B) IMPAIRMENT
Management assesses impairment of non-financial assets such as investments in associates and joint ventures, goodwill, intangible
assets, property and equipment, and investment property. In assessing impairment, management estimates the recoverable amount
of each asset or CGU based on expected future cash flows. When measuring expected future cash flows, management makes
assumptions about future growth of profits which relate to future events and circumstances. Actual results could vary from these
estimated future cash flows. Estimation uncertainty relates to assumptions about future operating results and the application of an
appropriate discount rate. Impairment losses and reversals are disclosed on the consolidated financial statements in Notes 9, 10, 11
and 12.
Goodwill is subject to impairment testing on an annual basis. The Company performed its annual assessment of goodwill impairment
during its third quarter. However, if indicators of impairment are present, the Company will review goodwill for impairment when
such indicators arise. In addition, at each reporting period, the Company reviews whether there are indicators that the recoverable
amount of long-lived assets may be less than their carrying amount.
Goodwill and long-lived assets were reviewed for impairment by determining the recoverable amount of each CGU or groups of
CGUs to which the goodwill or long-lived assets relate. Management estimated the recoverable amount of the CGUs based on the
higher of value-in-use (“VIU”) and fair value less costs of disposal (“FVLCD”). The VIU calculations are based on expected future
cash flows. When measuring expected future cash flows, management makes key assumptions about future growth of profits which
relate to future events and circumstances. Estimation uncertainty relates to assumptions about future operating results and the
application of an appropriate discount rate. Actual results could vary from these estimates which may cause significant adjustments
to the Company’s goodwill or long-lived assets in subsequent reporting periods.
(C) EMPLOYEE FUTURE BENEFITS
Accounting for the costs of defined benefit pension plans and other post-employment benefits requires the use of several
assumptions. Pension obligations are based on current market conditions and actuarial determined data such as medical cost
trends, mortality rates, and future salary increases. A sensitivity analysis and more detail of key assumptions used in measuring the
pension and post-employment benefit obligations are disclosed in Note 17.
(D) INCOME TA XES
Assumptions are applied when management assesses the timing and reversal of temporary differences and estimates the
Company’s future earnings to determine the recognition of current and deferred income taxes. Judgments are also made by
management when interpreting the tax rules in jurisdictions where the Company operates. Note 13 details the current and deferred
income tax expense and deferred tax assets and liabilities.
(E) BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS
For business acquisitions, the Company applies judgment on the recognition and measurement of assets acquired and liabilities
assumed, and estimates are utilized to calculate and measure such adjustments. In measuring the fair value of an acquiree’s assets
and liabilities management uses estimates about future cash flows and discount rates. Any measurement changes after initial
recognition would affect the measurement of goodwill.
(F) PROVISIONS
Estimates and assumptions are used to calculate provisions when the Company estimates the expected future cash flows relating to
the obligation and applies an appropriate discount rate.
(G) SUPPLY AGREEMENTS
The Company has various long-term supply agreements for products, some of which contain minimum volume purchases.
Significant estimation and judgment is required in the determination of (i) future operating results; and (ii) forecasted purchase
volumes. When measuring whether a provision is required based on the expected future cash flows associated with fulfilling the
contract, management makes assumptions which relate to future events and circumstances. Actual results could vary from these
estimated future cash flows.
3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
(A) BASIS OF CONSOLIDATION
The financial statements for the Company include the accounts of the Company and all of its subsidiary undertakings up to the
reporting date. Subsidiaries, including SEs, are all entities the Company controls. All subsidiaries have a reporting date within
six weeks of the Company’s reporting date. Where necessary, adjustments have been made to reflect transactions between the
reporting dates of the Company and its subsidiaries.
49
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited Control exists when the Company has existing rights that give it the current ability to direct the activities that significantly affect the
entity’s returns. The Company reassesses control on an ongoing basis.
SEs are entities controlled by the Company which were designed so that voting or similar rights are not the dominant factor in
deciding who controls the entity. SEs are consolidated if, based on an evaluation of the substance of its relationship with the
Company, the Company concludes that it controls the SE. SEs controlled by the Company were established under terms that
impose strict limitations on the decision making powers of the SEs management and that results in the Company receiving the
majority of the benefits related to the SEs operations and net assets, being exposed to the majority of risks incident to the SEs
activities, and retaining the majority of the residual or ownership risks related to the SEs or their assets.
All intercompany transactions, balances, income and expenses are eliminated in preparing the consolidated financial statements.
Earnings or losses and other comprehensive income or losses of subsidiaries acquired or disposed of during the period are
recognized from the effective date of acquisition, or up to the effective date of disposal, as applicable.
Non-controlling interest represents the portion of a subsidiary’s earnings and losses and net assets that is not held by the Company.
If losses in a subsidiary applicable to a non-controlling interest exceed the non-controlling interest in the subsidiary’s equity, the
excess is allocated to the non-controlling interest except to the extent that the majority has a binding obligation and is able to
cover the losses, except as discussed in note 3(j).
(B) BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS
Business acquisitions are accounted for by applying the acquisition method. The acquisition method involves the recognition
of the acquiree’s identifiable assets and liabilities, including contingent liabilities, regardless of whether they were recorded on
the financial statements prior to acquisition. The acquiree’s identifiable assets, liabilities, and contingent liabilities that meet the
conditions for recognition under IFRS 3, “Business combinations”, are recognized at their fair value at the acquisition date, except
for: (i) deferred tax assets or liabilities and liabilities or assets related to employee benefit arrangements which are recognized and
measured in accordance with International Accounting Standard (“IAS”) 12, “Income taxes”, and IAS 19, “Employee benefits”,
respectively; and (ii) assets (or disposal groups) that are classified as held for sale in accordance with IFRS 5, “Non-current assets
held for sale and discontinued operations”, which are measured and recognized at fair value less costs to sell. Goodwill arising on
acquisition is recognized as an asset and represents the excess of acquisition cost over the fair value of the Company’s share of the
identifiable net assets of the acquiree at the date of the acquisition. Any excess of identifiable net assets over the acquisition cost
is recognized in net earnings or loss immediately after acquisition. Transaction costs related to the acquisition are expensed as they
are incurred.
(C) FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION
Assets and liabilities of foreign operations with a different functional currency than the Company are translated at exchange rates
in effect at each reporting period end date. The revenues and expenses are translated at average exchange rates for the period.
Cumulative gains and losses on translation are shown in accumulated other comprehensive income or loss.
Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into Canadian dollars at the foreign currency
exchange rate in effect at each reporting period end date. Non-monetary items are translated at the historical exchange rate at the
date of transaction. Exchange gains or losses arising from the translation of these balances denominated in foreign currencies are
recognized in operating income or loss. Revenues and expenses denominated in foreign currencies are translated into Canadian
dollars at the average foreign currency exchange rate for the period.
(D) CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Cash and cash equivalents are defined as cash and guaranteed investments with a maturity less than 90 days at date of acquisition.
(E) INVENTORIES
Warehouse inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realizable value with cost being determined on a weighted average
cost basis. Retail inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Cost is determined using a weighted average
cost using either the standard cost method or retail method. The retail method uses the anticipated selling price less normal
profit margins, on a weighted average cost basis. The cost of inventories is comprised of directly attributable costs and includes
the purchase price plus other costs incurred in bringing the inventories to their present location and condition, such as freight.
The cost is reduced by the value of rebates and allowances received from vendors. The Company estimates net realizable value
as the amount that inventories are expected to be sold taking into consideration fluctuations of retail price due to seasonality less
estimated costs necessary to make the sale. Inventories are written down to net realizable value when the cost of inventories is
not estimated to be recoverable due to obsolescence, damage or permanent declines in selling prices. When circumstances that
previously caused inventories to be written down below cost no longer exist or when there is clear evidence of an increase in retail
selling price, the amount of the write-down previously recorded is reversed. Costs that do not contribute to bringing inventories
to their present location and condition, such as storage and administrative overheads, are specifically excluded from the cost of
inventories and are expensed in the period incurred.
50
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019 (F) INCOME TA XES
Tax expense recognized in net earnings or loss comprises the sum of deferred income tax and current income tax not recognized in
other comprehensive income or loss.
Current income tax assets and liabilities are comprised of claims from, or obligations to, fiscal authorities relating to the current or
prior reporting periods, that are unpaid at the reporting date. Current tax is payable on taxable earnings, which differs from net
earnings or loss on the consolidated financial statements. The calculation of current income tax is based on tax rates and tax laws
that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the end of the reporting period.
Deferred income taxes are calculated using the asset and liability method on temporary differences between the carrying amounts
of assets and liabilities and their related tax bases. However, deferred tax is not provided on the initial recognition of goodwill or on
the initial recognition of an asset or liability unless the related transaction is a business acquisition or affects tax or accounting profit.
The deferred tax assets and liabilities have been measured using substantively enacted tax rates that will be in effect when the
amounts are expected to settle. Deferred tax assets are only recognized to the extent that it is probable that they will be able to be
utilized against future taxable income. The assessment of the probability of future taxable income in which deferred tax assets can
be utilized is based on the Company’s latest approved forecast, which is adjusted for significant non-taxable income and expenses
and specific limits to the use of any unused tax loss or credit. If a positive forecast of taxable income indicates the probable use of
a deferred tax asset, especially when it can be used without a time limit, that deferred tax asset is usually recognized in full. The
recognition of deferred tax assets that are subject to certain legal or economic limits or uncertainties are assessed individually by
management based on the specific facts and circumstances.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset only when the Company has a right and intention to offset current tax assets and
liabilities from the same taxation authority. Changes in deferred tax assets or liabilities are recognized as a component of income or
expense in net earnings or loss, except where they relate to items that are recognized in other comprehensive income or loss (such
as the unrealized gains and losses on cash flow hedges) or directly in equity.
(G) ASSETS HELD FOR SALE
Certain property and equipment have been listed for sale and reclassified as assets held for sale on the consolidated balance
sheets. These assets are expected to be sold within a twelve month period. Assets held for sale are valued at the lower of carrying
value and fair value less costs to sell.
(H) INVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATES
Associates are those entities over which the Company is able to exert significant influence but which it does not control and which
are not interests in a joint venture. Control is reassessed on an ongoing basis. Investments in associates are initially recognized at
cost and subsequently accounted for using the equity method.
Acquired investments in associates are also subject to the acquisition method as explained above. However, any goodwill or fair value
adjustment attributable to the Company’s share in the associate is included in the amount recognized as investments in associates.
All subsequent changes to the Company’s share of interest in the equity of the associate are recognized in the carrying amount of
the investment. Changes resulting from the earnings or losses generated by the associate are reported within share of earnings
from investments, at equity on the Company’s consolidated statements of earnings or loss. These changes include subsequent
depreciation, amortization or impairment of the fair value adjustments of assets and liabilities.
Changes resulting from earnings of the associate or items recognized directly in the associate’s equity are recognized in earnings or
losses or equity of the Company, as applicable. However, when the Company’s share of losses in an associate equals or exceeds its
interest in the associate, including any unsecured receivables, the Company does not recognize further losses, unless it has incurred
legal or constructive obligations or made payments on behalf of the associate. If the associate subsequently reports earnings, the
Company resumes recognizing its share of those earnings only after its share of the earnings exceeds the accumulated share of
losses that had previously not been recognized.
Unrealized gains and losses on transactions between the Company and its associates are eliminated to the extent of the Company’s
interest in those entities. Where unrealized losses are eliminated, the underlying asset is also tested for impairment losses from a
Company perspective.
At each reporting period end date, the Company assesses whether there are any indicators of impairment in its investment in
associates. For investments in publicly traded entities, carrying value of the investment is compared to the current market value
of the investment based on its quoted price at the balance sheet date. For entities which are not publicly traded, value-in-use of
the investment is determined by estimating the Company’s share of the present value of the estimated cash flows expected to be
generated by the investee. If impaired, the carrying value of the Company’s investment is written down to its estimated recoverable
amount, being the higher of fair value less cost to sell and value-in-use.
In the process of measuring future cash flows, management makes assumptions about future growth of profits. These assumptions
relate to future events and circumstances. The actual results may vary and may cause significant adjustments to the Company’s
investments in associates in the subsequent financial years.
51
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited Each of the associates identified by the Company has a reporting year end of December 31. For purposes of the Company’s
consolidated year end financial statements, each of the associates’ results are included based on financial statements prepared as
at March 31, with any changes occurring between March 31 and the Company’s year end that would materially affect the results
being taken into account.
(I) INVESTMENTS IN JOINT VENTURES
Investments in joint ventures are joint arrangements whereby the Company and the other parties to the arrangements have joint
control and therefore have rights to the net assets of the arrangement. Investments in joint ventures are initially recognized at cost
and subsequently accounted for using the equity method.
(J) FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Financial instruments are recognized on the consolidated balance sheets when the Company becomes a party to the contractual
provisions of a financial instrument. The classification and measurement categories for financial assets are amortized cost, fair
value through other comprehensive income (“FVOCI”), and FVTPL. Financial assets that are not designated as FVTPL on initial
recognition are classified and measured at amortized cost if (i) they are held within a business model whose objective is to hold
assets to collect contractual cash flows, and (ii) the contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely
payments of principal and interest. Debt investments that are not designated as FVTPL on initial recognition are classified and
measured at FVOCI if (i) they are held within a business model whose objective is achieved by both collecting contractual cash
flows and selling financial assets, and (ii) the contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments
of principal and interest. Equity investments held for trading are classified and measured at FVTPL. Financial assets not classified
at amortized cost or FVOCI are classified and measured at FVTPL. The classification and measurement categories for financial
liabilities are amortized cost and FVTPL.
The Company’s financial assets and liabilities are generally classified and measured as follows:
Asset/Liability
Cash and cash equivalents
Receivables
Loans and other receivables
Derivative financial assets and liabilities
Non-derivative other assets
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Long-term debt
Classification
and Measurement
Amortized cost
Amortized cost
Amortized cost
FVTPL
FVTPL
Amortized cost
Amortized cost
Sobeys has entered into put and call options with non-controlling interest shareholders of certain subsidiary companies such that
the Company may acquire their shareholdings under certain conditions on or after the exercise date. As a result, the Company
recognizes a financial liability at the present value of the amount payable on exercise of the applicable put option. Remeasurement
adjustments are recorded in retained earnings. At the end of each reporting period, non-controlling interests for these subsidiaries
that have been recognized, including the earnings attributable to these non-controlling interests, are derecognized against the
related non-controlling interest liability immediately before its period-end revaluation.
Impairment of financial assets are based on expected credit losses (“ECL”). The Company recognizes loss allowances on its trade
receivables based on lifetime ECLs. Loss allowances are recognized on loans and other receivables for which the credit risk has not
increased significantly since initial recognition based on the 12-month ECL. Where there is a significant increase in the credit risk of
loans and other receivables subsequent to initial recognition, the Company recognizes loss allowances based on lifetime ECLs. The
Company considers past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts affecting collectability when determining
whether the credit risk of a financial asset has increased significantly since initial recognition, or in estimating lifetime ECLs.
(K) HEDGES
The Company has cash flow hedges which are used to manage exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange and
energy prices. For cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the change in fair value of the hedging item is recorded in other
comprehensive income or loss. To the extent the change in fair value of the derivative does not completely offset the change in
fair value of the hedged item, the ineffective portion of the hedging relationship is recorded in net earnings or loss. Amounts
accumulated in other comprehensive income or loss are reclassified to net earnings or loss when the hedged item is recognized
in net earnings or loss. When a hedging instrument in a cash flow hedge expires or is sold, or when a hedge no longer meets the
criteria for hedge accounting, any cumulative gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income or loss relating to the hedge
is carried forward until the hedged item is recognized in net earnings or loss. When the hedged item ceases to exist as a result of
its expiry or sale, or if an anticipated transaction is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss in accumulated other
comprehensive income or loss is immediately reclassified to net earnings or loss.
52
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019
Financial derivatives assigned as part of a cash flow hedging relationship are classified on the consolidated balance sheets as either
an other asset or other long-term liability as required based on their fair value determination.
Significant derivatives include the following:
(i)
Foreign currency forward contracts and foreign currency swaps for the primary purpose of limiting exposure to exchange
rate fluctuations relating to the purchase of goods or expenditures denominated in foreign currencies. Certain contracts
are designated as hedging instruments for accounting purposes. Accordingly, the effective portion of the change in the fair
value of the contracts is accumulated in other comprehensive income or loss until the variability in cash flows being hedged is
recognized in earnings or loss in future accounting periods.
(ii)
Electricity forward contracts for the primary purpose of limiting exposure to fluctuations in the market prices of electricity. These
contracts are designated as hedging instruments for accounting purposes. Accordingly, the effective portion of the change in
fair value of the contracts is accumulated in other comprehensive income or loss until the variability in cash flows being hedged
is recognized in earnings or loss in future accounting periods.
(iii) Natural gas forward contracts for the primary purpose of limiting exposure to fluctuations in the market prices of natural gas.
These contracts are designated as hedging instruments for accounting purposes. Accordingly, the effective portion of the
change in fair value of the contracts is accumulated in other comprehensive income or loss until the variability in cash flows
being hedged is recognized in earnings or loss in future accounting periods.
(L) PROPERT Y AND EQUIPMENT
Owner-occupied land, buildings, equipment, leasehold improvements, and assets under construction are carried at acquisition cost
less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses.
Buildings that are leasehold property are also included in property and equipment if they are classified as a finance lease. Such
assets are depreciated over their expected useful lives (determined by reference to comparable owned assets) or over the term of
the lease, if shorter.
When significant parts of property and equipment have different useful lives, they are accounted for as separate components.
Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis from the time the asset is available or when assets under construction become
available for use over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:
Buildings
Equipment
Leasehold improvements
10 – 40 years
3 – 20 years
Lesser of lease term and 7 – 20 years
Depreciation has been included within selling and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of earnings. Material
residual value estimates and estimates of useful life are reviewed and updated as required, or annually at a minimum.
Gains or losses arising on the disposal of property and equipment are determined as the difference between the disposal proceeds
and the carrying amount of the assets and are recognized in net earnings or loss within other income. If the sale is to a Company’s
investment, at equity, a portion of the gain or loss is deferred and reduces the carrying value of the investment.
(M) INVESTMENT PROPERT Y
Investment properties are properties which are held either to earn rental income or for capital appreciation or for both, rather than
for the principal purpose of the Company’s operating activities. Investment properties are accounted for using the cost model. The
depreciation policies for investment property are consistent with those described for property and equipment.
Any gain or loss arising from the sale of an investment property is immediately recognized in net earnings or loss, unless the sale
is to an investment, at equity, in which case a portion of the gain or loss is deferred and would reduce the carrying value of the
Company’s investment. Rental income and operating expenses from investment property are reported within other income and
selling and administrative expenses, respectively, on the consolidated statements of earnings.
(N) LEASES
Leases are classified as finance leases whenever the terms of the lease transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to
the lessee. All other leases are classified as operating leases.
(i) The Company as lessor
Rental income from operating leases is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the relevant lease. Initial direct costs
incurred in negotiating and arranging an operating lease are added to the carrying amount of the leased asset and recognized on
a straight-line basis over the lease term.
(ii) The Company as lessee
Assets held under finance leases are initially recognized as assets of the Company at their fair value at the inception of the lease
or, if lower, at the present value of the minimum lease payments. The corresponding liability to the lessor is included on the
consolidated balance sheets as a finance lease obligation in long-term debt.
53
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
Lease payments are apportioned between finance charges and reduction of the lease obligation to achieve a constant rate of
interest on the remaining balance of the liability. Finance charges are recognized in net earnings or loss immediately. Contingent
rentals are recognized as expenses in the periods in which they are incurred.
Lease allowances and incentives are recognized as other long-term liabilities. The aggregate benefit of incentives is recognized as a
reduction of rental expense on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease.
Real estate lease expense is amortized on a straight-line basis over the entire term of the lease.
(iii) Sale and leaseback transactions
A sale and leaseback transaction involves the sale of an asset and the leasing back of the same asset. If a sale and leaseback
transaction results in a finance lease for the Company, any excess of sales proceeds over the carrying amount is recognized as
deferred revenue and amortized over the term of the new lease. Any profit or loss in a sale and leaseback transaction resulting in
an operating lease that is transacted at fair value is recognized immediately. If the sale price is above fair value, the excess over fair
value is deferred and amortized over the term of the new lease.
(O) INTANGIBLES
Intangibles arise on the purchase of a new business, existing franchises, software, and the acquisition of pharmacy prescription files.
They are accounted for using the cost model whereby capitalized costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated
useful lives, as these assets are considered finite. Useful lives are reviewed annually and intangibles are subject to impairment
testing. The following useful lives are applied:
Deferred purchase agreements
Franchise rights/agreements
Lease rights
Off market leases
Prescription files
Software
Other
5 – 10 years
10 years
5 – 10 years
Lesser of lease term and 40 years
15 years
3 – 7 years
5 – 10 years
Amortization has been included within selling and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of earnings. Subsequent
expenditures made by the Company relating to intangible assets that do not meet the capitalization criteria are expensed in the
period incurred.
Included in intangibles are brand names, loyalty programs, and private labels, the majority of which have indefinite useful lives.
Intangibles with indefinite useful lives are measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. These intangibles are tested
for impairment on an annual basis or more frequently if there are indicators that intangibles may be impaired.
(P) GOODWILL
Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price of the business acquired over the fair value of the underlying net tangible and
intangible assets acquired at the date of acquisition.
(Q) IMPAIRMENT OF NON-FINANCIAL ASSETS
Goodwill and indefinite life intangibles are reviewed for impairment at least annually by assessing the recoverable amount of
each CGU or groups of CGUs to which the goodwill or indefinite life intangible relates. The recoverable amount is the higher of
FVLCD and VIU. When the recoverable amount of the CGU(s) is less than the carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognized
immediately in net earnings or loss. Impairment losses related to goodwill cannot be reversed.
Long-lived tangible and intangible assets are reviewed each reporting period for impairment when events or changes in
circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the assets may not be recoverable. If such an indication exists, the recoverable
amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any). The recoverable amount is the
higher of FVLCD and VIU. Where the asset does not generate cash flows that are independent from other assets, the Company
estimates the recoverable amount of the CGU(s) to which the asset belongs. The Company has determined a CGU to be primarily
an individual store. Corporate assets such as head offices and distribution centres do not individually generate separate cash
inflows and are therefore aggregated for testing with the stores they service. When the recoverable amount of an asset (or CGU)
is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset (or CGU) is reduced to the recoverable amount.
An impairment loss is recognized immediately in selling and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of earnings.
Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, other than related to goodwill, the carrying amount of the asset (or CGU) is
increased to the revised estimate, but is limited to the carrying amount that would have been determined if no impairment loss
had been recognized in prior years. A reversal of impairment loss is recognized immediately in net earnings or loss.
54
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019
(R) CUSTOMER LOYALT Y PROGRAMS
The AIR MILES® loyalty program is used by the Company. AIR MILES® are earned by Sobeys customers based on purchases in
stores. The Company pays a per point fee under the terms of the agreement with AIR MILES®.
(S) PROVISIONS
Provisions are recognized when there is a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of a past event, for which it is probable
that a transfer of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation, and where a reliable estimate can be made of the
amount of the obligation. Provisions are discounted using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects the current market assessments of the
time value of money and the risks specific to the liability, if material. Where discounting is used, the increase in the provision due to
passage of time (“unwinding of the discount”) is recognized within finance costs, net on the consolidated statements of earnings.
(T) BORROWING COSTS
Borrowing costs are primarily comprised of interest on the Company’s debts. Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition,
construction or production of a qualifying asset are capitalized as a component of the cost of the asset to which it is related. All
other borrowing costs are expensed in the period in which they are incurred and are reported within finance costs.
(U) DEFERRED REVENUE
Deferred revenue consists of long-term supplier purchase agreements and gains on sale and leaseback transactions relating to
certain finance leases. Deferred revenue is included in other long-term liabilities and is taken into income on a straight-line basis
over the term of the related agreements.
(V) EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
(i) Short-term employment benefits
Short-term employee benefits include wages, salaries, compensated absences, profit-sharing and bonuses expected to be settled
within 12 months from the end of the reporting period. Short-term employee benefits are measured on an undiscounted basis and
are recorded as selling and administrative expenses as the related service is provided.
(ii) Post-employment benefits
The cost of the Company’s pension benefits for defined contribution plans are expensed at the time active employees are
compensated. The cost of defined benefit pension plans and other benefit plans is accrued based on actuarial valuations, which are
determined using the projected unit credit method pro-rated on service and management’s best estimate of salary escalation, and
retirement ages.
The liability recognized on the consolidated balance sheets for defined benefit plans is the present value of the defined benefit
obligation at the reporting date less the fair market value of plan assets. Current market values are used to value benefit plan
assets. The obligation related to employee future benefits is measured using current market interest rates, assuming a portfolio of
Corporate AA bonds with terms to maturity that, on average, match the terms of the obligation.
Remeasurements, comprising of actuarial gains and losses and the return on plan assets (excluding amounts in net interest), are
recognized immediately on the consolidated balance sheets with a corresponding charge to retained earnings through other
comprehensive income or loss in the period in which they occur. Remeasurements are not reclassified to net earnings or loss in
subsequent periods.
Past service costs are recognized in net earnings or loss on the earlier of the date of the plan amendment or curtailment, and the
date that the Company recognizes restructuring-related costs.
Service cost on the net defined benefit liability, comprising current service costs, past-service costs, gains and losses on curtailments
and non-routine settlements, is included in selling and administrative expenses. Net interest expense on the net defined benefit
liability is included in finance costs, net.
(iii) Termination benefits
Termination benefits are recognized as an expense at the earlier of when the Company recognizes related restructuring costs and
when the Company can no longer withdraw the offer of those benefits.
55
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited (W) REVENUE RECOGNITION
Revenue is recognized upon delivery and acceptance of the goods. Revenue is measured at the expected consideration net
of discounts and allowances. Sales include revenues from customers through corporate stores operated by the Company
and consolidated structured entities, and revenue from sales to non-structured entity franchised stores, affiliated stores and
independent accounts. Revenue received from non-structured entity franchised stores, affiliated stores and independent accounts
is mainly derived from the sale of product. The Company also collects franchise fees under two types of arrangements. Franchise
fees contractually due based on the dollar value of product shipped are recorded as revenue when the product is shipped.
Franchise fees contractually due based on the franchisee’s retail sales are recorded as revenue upon invoicing.
(X) VENDOR ALLOWANCES
The Company receives allowances from certain vendors whose products are purchased for resale. Included in these vendor
programs are allowances for volume purchases, exclusivity allowances, listing fees, and other allowances. The Company recognizes
these allowances as a reduction of cost of sales and related inventories. Certain allowances are contingent on the Company
achieving minimum purchase levels and these allowances are recognized when it is probable that the minimum purchase level
will be met, and the amount of allowance can be estimated.
(Y) INTEREST AND DIVIDEND INCOME
Interest income and expenses are reported on an accrual basis using the effective interest method. Dividend income is recognized
when the right to receive payment has been established.
(Z) EARNINGS PER SHARE
Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the earnings available to common shareholders by the weighted average number
of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is calculated by adjusting the weighted average
number of common shares outstanding for the dilutive effect of employee stock options and performance share units. When a loss
is recorded, the weighted average number of shares used for the purpose of basic and diluted loss per share is equal, as the impact
of all potential common shares would be anti-dilutive.
(A A) STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
The Company operates both equity and cash settled stock-based compensation plans for certain employees.
All goods and services received in exchange for the grant of any stock-based payments are measured at their fair values. Where
employees are rewarded using stock-based payments, the fair values of employees’ services are determined indirectly by reference
to the fair value of the equity instruments granted (Note 27).
(AB) CHANGES TO ACCOUNTING STANDARDS ADOPTED DURING FISCAL 2019
(i) Revenue
The Company adopted IFRS 15 “Revenue from contracts with customers” (“IFRS 15”) effective in the first quarter of fiscal 2019.
IFRS 15 was issued in May 2014 and replaces IAS 18 “Revenue”, IAS 11 “Construction contracts”, and related interpretations.
IFRS 15 became effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018.
IFRS 15 establishes a new control-based revenue recognition model and provides a comprehensive five-step framework for
recognition, measurement, and disclosure of revenue from contracts with customers, excluding contracts within the scope of the
standards on leases, insurance contracts, and financial instruments. The Company has adopted the standard retrospectively, in
accordance with IFRS 15 transitional provisions. The implementation of IFRS 15 did not materially impact the amounts recognized
on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and no amounts have been reclassified or restated.
The Company has amended its accounting policies related to revenue recognition and revised the definition of sales. Refer to note
3(w) above.
56
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019 (ii) Financial instruments
The Company adopted IFRS 9 “Financial instruments” (“IFRS 9”) which replaces the provisions of IAS 39 “Financial instruments:
recognition and measurement” (“IAS 39”), and related amendments to IFRS 7 “Financial instruments: disclosures” (“IFRS 7”)
effective in the first quarter of fiscal 2019, on a retrospective basis. IFRS 9 became effective for annual periods beginning on or
after January 1, 2018.
The IAS 39 requirements for the classification and measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities, and impairment of
financial assets have been amended by IFRS 9. IFRS 9 also introduces a new hedge accounting model and a change in accounting
for debt modifications.
Classification and measurement
IFRS 9 requires financial assets to be classified and measured based on both the business model for managing the asset, and the
nature of the cash flows. The classification and measurement categories for financial assets are amortized cost, FVOCI, and FVTPL.
The classification and measurement categories for financial liabilities are amortized cost and FVTPL. The impacts on financial assets
and liabilities upon adoption of IFRS 9 are outlined below:
Asset/Liability
IAS 39 Classification
IAS 39 Measurement
Cash and cash equivalents
Receivables
Loans and other receivables
Derivative financial assets and liabilities
Non-derivative other assets
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Long-term debt
Loans and receivables
Loans and receivables
Loans and receivables
FVTPL
FVTPL
Other liabilities
Other liabilities
Amortized cost
Amortized cost
Amortized cost
Fair value
Fair value
Amortized cost
Amortized cost
IFRS 9 Classification
and Measurement
Amortized cost
Amortized cost
Amortized cost
FVTPL
FVTPL
Amortized cost
Amortized cost
The changes in classification and measurement did not result in changes to the carrying amounts of the Company’s financial
instruments on adoption of IFRS 9.
The Company has amended its accounting policies for the classification and measurement of financial instruments. Refer to
note 3(j) above.
The measurement of financial liabilities remains largely unchanged from IAS 39.
Impairment
IFRS 9 introduces a new ECL impairment model for financial assets measured at amortized cost or FVOCI, except for equity
investments. The ECL impairment model replaces the incurred loss model under IAS 39. It is no longer necessary for a triggering
event to have occurred before credit losses are recognized.
Under the IFRS 9 ECL impairment model, loss allowances are measured based on (i) ECLs that result from possible default events
within the 12 months after the reporting date (“12-month ECL”), or (ii) ECLs that result from all possible default events over the
expected life of a financial instrument (“lifetime ECLs”).
The adoption of the ECL impairment model did not have a quantitative impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Hedge accounting
IFRS 9 introduces a new hedge accounting model that aligns hedge accounting relationships with corresponding risk management
activities. The new hedge accounting requirements did not result in an adjustment to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Modification of financial liabilities
In October 2017, the IASB issued “Prepayment features with negative compensation” as an amendment to IFRS 9. The amendment
clarifies the accounting treatment for modifications of financial liabilities and requires a financial liability measured at amortized cost
to be remeasured when a modification occurs. Any resulting gain or loss is required to be recognized in profit or loss at the date of
modification. The amendment became effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. The Company adopted
the amendment on a retrospective basis effective in the first quarter of fiscal 2019, in accordance with IFRS 9 transitional provisions.
The adoption did not result in an adjustment to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Disclosure
Financial instrument disclosures continue to fall within the scope of IFRS 7. IFRS 7 has been amended by IFRS 9 to include
additional qualitative and quantitative disclosure requirements. The Company has adopted these amendments.
57
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
(AC) FUTURE STANDARDS
(i) Leases
In January 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16, “Leases” (“IFRS 16”), which replaces IAS 17, “Leases” (“IAS 17”) and related
interpretations. IFRS 16 introduces a balance sheet recognition and measurement model for lessees, eliminating the distinction
between operating and finance leases except for short-term and low-value asset leases. Lessors will continue to classify leases
as operating or finance leases. The standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019. In accordance
with the transition provisions in IFRS 16, the Company will adopt the standard using the modified retrospective approach, with the
cumulative effect of initially applying the standard recognized as an adjustment to equity on transition. Prior period comparatives
will not be restated.
The adoption of IFRS 16 will have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements, given the current real
estate operating lease commitments held under IAS 17 as a lessee.
The Company’s consolidated balance sheets will reflect current and long-term lease liabilities and right-of-use assets for property
and equipment leases where the Company is the lessee. These liabilities will be measured at the present value of the remaining
lease payments, discounted using the Company’s incremental borrowing rate on transition. The right-of-use assets will be measured
retrospectively using the Company’s incremental borrowing rate as of the date of transition. The expected range of impact on the
consolidated balance sheets is increased liabilities of $4.6 billion to $4.8 billion and increased assets of $4.0 billion to $4.2 billion.
These estimates have been updated from third quarter disclosures to reflect changes in market discount rates as well as new leases
and lease modifications incurred. The Company continues to finalize estimates and inputs into the calculations. The discount rate
applied is based on the Company’s estimated incremental borrowing rate as of the transition date of May 5, 2019.
In the statements of earnings, the Company will recognize depreciation for right-of-use assets and finance expense on lease
liabilities, in place of the current straight-line operating lease expense. For finance subleases, finance income related to income
earned on lease receivables will be recognized in place of sublease income for these leases. Amortization related to off-market
lease intangibles will be replaced by depreciation expense over the term of the lease. Based on current estimates and information
available, the Company does not expect a material impact on net earnings and earnings per share in fiscal 2020.
There will be no change to the amount of cash exchanged related to lease transactions. Total expense recognized over the lease
term is equal to total cash paid over the lease term. However, expenses under IFRS 16 will be higher when leases are early in
the term as finance expense is recognized on an amortized cost basis and depreciation expense is recognized on a straight-line
basis over the lease term. The Company will classify lease payments consistently with payments on other financial liabilities in the
statement of cash flows, with lease payments for principal and interest on the lease liability classified as financing cash flows instead
of operating cash flows.
The Company is an intermediate lessor in several lease arrangements. Under the new standard, the Company has assessed its
classification of subleases by reference to the right-of-use asset on the head lease as required under IFRS 16, and not by reference
to the underlying asset. As a result of this change, the Company expects an increase in current and long-term lease receivables
recognized for subleases which are expected to be classified as finance leases.
The Company will apply the following practical expedients, as permitted by IFRS 16:
• applying a single discount rate to a portfolio of leases with similar characteristics
•
relying on previous assessment of whether a lease is onerous
• accounting for leases which end within 12 months of the date of initial application as short-term leases
• excluding initial direct costs from the measurement of the right-of-use asset, and
• using hindsight (for example, in determining the lease term where the contract includes extension or termination options)
The Company has implemented a new national lease management system and continues to update processes and internal controls
to enable the implementation of IFRS 16, commencing in the first quarter of fiscal 2020.
(ii) Uncertainty over income tax treatments
The IASB issued IFRIC 23 “Uncertainty over income tax treatments” to clarify how to apply the recognition and measurement
requirements in IAS 12 when there is uncertainty over tax treatments. These amendments are effective for annual periods
beginning on or after January 1, 2019. The Company does not expect a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
58
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019 4. Inventories
The cost of inventories recognized as an expense during the year was $19,058.4 (2018 – $18,314.1). The Company recorded
$1.9 (2018 – $1.5) as an expense for the write-down of inventories below cost to net realizable value for inventories on hand
as at May 4, 2019. There were no reversals of inventories written down previously (2018 – $ nil).
5. Loans and Other Receivables
Loans receivable
Notes receivable and other
Less amount due within one year
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
56.4 $
33.1
89.5
18.7
$
70.8 $
64.1
37.4
101.5
20.9
80.6
Loans receivable represent long-term financing to certain retail associates. These loans are primarily secured by inventory, fixtures
and equipment; bear various interest rates, and have repayment terms up to 10 years. The carrying amount of the loans receivable
approximates fair value based on the variable interest rates charged on the loans.
Included in notes receivable and other as at May 4, 2019, is $10.3 (2018 – $11.8) due from a third party related to equipment sales.
6. Assets Held for Sale
As at May 4, 2019, assets held for sale relates to land, buildings and equipment expected to be sold in the next 12 months.
These assets were previously used in the Company’s retail and retail support operations.
During fiscal 2019, Sobeys sold four properties to third parties. Total proceeds from these transactions were $18.6, resulting
in a pre-tax gain of $14.4.
During fiscal 2018, Sobeys sold nine properties to third parties. Total proceeds from these transactions were $56.7, resulting in
a pre-tax gain of $8.5.
7. Investments, at Equity
Investment in associates
Crombie Real Estate Investment Trust (“Crombie REIT”)
Canadian real estate partnerships
U.S. real estate partnerships
Joint ventures
Total
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
466.5 $
94.6
20.3
8.0
$
589.4 $
448.5
90.7
23.2
9.4
571.8
The fair value of the investment in Crombie REIT, which is based on a published price quoted on the Toronto Stock Exchange,
is as follows:
Crombie REIT
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
904.7 $
777.1
The Canadian and U.S. real estate partnerships and joint ventures are not publicly listed on a stock exchange and hence published
price quotes are not available.
The Company owns 62,007,513 Class B LP units and attached special voting units of Crombie REIT, along with 909,090 REIT units,
representing a 41.5% (2018 – 41.5%) economic and voting interest in Crombie REIT.
Crombie REIT has a distribution reinvestment plan (“DRIP”) whereby Canadian resident REIT unitholders may elect to have their
distributions automatically reinvested in additional REIT units. The Company is enrolled in the DRIP.
59
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
The Company’s carrying value of its investment in Crombie REIT is as follows:
Balance, beginning of year
Equity earnings
Share of comprehensive income
Distributions, net of DRIP
Deferral of gains on sale of property
Reversal of deferred gain on sale of property to unrelated party
$
448.5 $
63.6
–
(53.5)
(4.0)
11.9
Balance, end of year
$
466.5 $
The Company’s carrying value of its investment in Canadian real estate partnerships is as follows:
459.1
39.5
2.9
(43.7)
(9.3)
–
448.5
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
Balance, beginning of year
Equity earnings
Distributions
Balance, end of year
The Company’s carrying value of its investment in U.S. real estate partnerships is as follows:
Balance, beginning of year
Equity earnings
Distributions
Foreign currency translation adjustment
Balance, end of year
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
$
90.7 $
18.5
(14.6)
94.6 $
143.0
24.6
(76.9)
90.7
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
23.2 $
4.9
(8.7)
0.9
$
20.3 $
36.8
9.3
(21.7)
(1.2)
23.2
The following amounts represent the revenues, expenses, assets, and liabilities of Crombie REIT as at and for the 12 months ended
March 31, 2019, as well as a reconciliation of the carrying amount of the Company’s investment in Crombie REIT to the net assets
attributable to unitholders of Crombie REIT:
March 31, 2019
March 31, 2018
$
$
$
$
414.1 $
284.4
129.7 $
(5.2) $
(0.9)
(6.1) $
415.4
323.4
92.0
36.7
6.7
43.4
March 31, 2019
March 31, 2018
$
17.3 $
4,030.4
$
4,047.7 $
$
413.8 $
2,180.5
$
2,594.3 $
22.9
4,026.7
4,049.6
359.1
2,234.9
2,594.0
Revenues
Expenses
Earnings before income taxes
(Loss) income from continuing operations
Other comprehensive (loss) income
Total comprehensive (loss) income
Assets
Current
Non-current
Total
Liabilities
Current
Non-current
Total
60
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019
Unitholders’ net assets
REIT Units
Class B LP Units
Less total REIT Units outstanding as at March 31
Cumulative changes since acquisition of Crombie REIT
Variances in timing of distributions
Issue costs related to Class B LP Units
Deferred gains (net of depreciation addback and timing variances)
Dilution gains
Write off of portion of AOCI on dilution of interest in Crombie REIT
Crombie REIT tax reorganization – deferred tax adjustment
Carrying amount attributable to investment in Class B LP Units
REIT Units owned by Empire
Cumulative equity earnings on REIT Units
Cumulative distributions on REIT Units
March 31, 2019
March 31, 2018
$
870.7 $
582.7
1,453.4
(870.7)
872.3
583.3
1,455.6
(872.3)
4.6
12.6
(154.9)
38.6
0.7
(31.7)
452.6
13.8
5.3
(5.2)
4.6
12.6
(172.4)
38.6
0.7
(31.7)
435.7
13.8
3.4
(4.4)
448.5
Empire’s carrying amount of investment in Crombie REIT
$
466.5 $
The Company has interests in various Canadian real estate partnerships ranging from 40.7% to 49.0% which are involved in
residential property developments in Ontario and Western Canada.
The following amounts represent the revenues, expenses, assets, and liabilities of the Canadian real estate partnerships as at and
for the 12 months ended March 31, 2019:
Revenues
Expenses
Net earnings
Current assets
Current liabilities
Net assets
Carrying amount of investment
March 31, 2019
March 31, 2018
$
112.1 $
67.4
$
44.7 $
161.9
103.2
58.7
March 31, 2019
March 31, 2018
$
264.1 $
67.8
196.3 $
94.6 $
$
$
270.3
61.7
208.6
90.7
The Company has interests in various U.S. real estate partnerships ranging from 37.1% to 42.1% which are involved in residential
property developments in the United States.
The following amounts represent the revenues, expenses, assets, and liabilities of the U.S. real estate partnerships as at and for
the 12 months ended March 31, 2019:
Revenues
Expenses
Net earnings
Current assets
Current liabilities
Net assets
Carrying amount of investment
March 31, 2019
March 31, 2018
$
$
33.3 $
21.4
11.9 $
67.7
44.6
23.1
March 31, 2019
March 31, 2018
$
$
$
58.3 $
2.5
55.8 $
20.3 $
67.3
5.2
62.1
23.2
61
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
8. Other Assets
Deferred lease assets
Derivative assets
Deferred financing costs
Other
Total
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
25.0 $
1.4
2.1
14.9
$
43.4 $
18.5
–
1.8
13.8
34.1
9. Property and Equipment
May 4, 2019
Land
Buildings
Equipment
Leasehold
Improvements
Assets Under
Construction
Total
Cost
Opening balance
Additions
Additions from
business acquisitions
Transfers and adjustments
Disposals and write downs
$
511.2 $
1.6
1,309.3 $
4.7
2,547.4 $
120.2
700.9 $
78.8 $
16.9
268.1
5,147.6
411.5
–
(10.9)
(16.7)
–
3.9
(37.2)
36.4
34.5
(82.9)
36.1
43.4
(13.1)
13.2
(90.7)
(1.3)
85.7
(19.8)
(151.2)
Closing balance
$
485.2 $
1,280.7 $
2,655.6 $
784.2 $
268.1 $
5,473.8
$
Accumulated depreciation and impairment losses
Opening balance
Disposals and write downs
Transfers and adjustments
Depreciation
Impairment losses
Impairment reversals
– $
–
–
–
–
–
464.0 $
(18.5)
(4.3)
54.1
0.1
(0.4)
1,459.4 $
(76.5)
1.4
230.7
4.4
(18.1)
436.9 $
(12.8)
12.4
46.8
0.3
(17.6)
Closing balance
$
– $
495.0 $
1,601.3 $
466.0 $
– $
–
–
–
–
–
– $
2,360.3
(107.8)
9.5
331.6
4.8
(36.1)
2,562.3
Net carrying value
as at May 4, 2019
$
485.2 $
785.7 $
1,054.3 $
318.2 $
268.1 $
2,911.5
May 5, 2018
Land
Buildings
Equipment
Leasehold
Improvements
Assets Under
Construction
Total
Cost
Opening balance
Additions
Additions from
business acquisitions
Transfers and adjustments
Disposals and write downs
$
537.8 $
2.5
1,313.3 $
9.4
2,427.3 $
101.5
700.3 $
13.4
348.1 $
147.9
5,326.8
274.7
–
(16.6)
(12.5)
–
27.2
(40.6)
1.3
221.1
(203.8)
–
39.8
(52.6)
–
(417.2)
–
1.3
(145.7)
(309.5)
Closing balance
$
511.2 $
1,309.3 $
2,547.4 $
700.9 $
78.8 $
5,147.6
Accumulated depreciation
and impairment losses
Opening balance
Disposals and write downs
Transfers and adjustments
Depreciation
Impairment losses
$
Closing balance
$
– $
–
–
–
–
– $
448.9 $
(17.1)
(29.7)
59.5
2.4
1,411.3 $
(188.9)
(9.4)
239.8
6.6
464.0 $
1,459.4 $
433.3 $
(50.2)
2.4
50.9
0.5
436.9 $
– $
–
–
–
–
– $
2,293.5
(256.2)
(36.7)
350.2
9.5
2,360.3
Net carrying value
as at May 5, 2018
62
$
511.2 $
845.3 $
1,088.0 $
264.0 $
78.8 $
2,787.3
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019
FINANCE LEASES
The Company has various property leases for store locations classified as finance leases with a net carrying value of $14.7 as at
May 4, 2019 (2018 – $9.8). These leases are included in buildings.
The Company has equipment leases classified as finance leases with a net carrying value of $7.6 as at May 4, 2019 (2018 – $11.2).
These leases are included in equipment.
ASSETS UNDER CONSTRUCTION
During the year, the Company capitalized borrowing costs of $0.6 (2018 – $0.5) on indebtedness related to property and equipment
under construction. The Company used a capitalization rate of 4.4% (2018 – 4.7%).
SECURIT Y
As at May 4, 2019, the net carrying value of property pledged as security for borrowings is $54.1 (2018 – $57.1).
IMPAIRMENT OF PROPERT Y AND EQUIPMENT
The Company performed an impairment test for property and equipment and determined recoverable amounts based on VIU
calculations using cash flow projections from the Company’s latest internal forecasts. When the recoverable amount of a CGU is less
than the carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognized. When the recoverable amount of a previously impaired CGU is greater
than the value of its impaired assets, an impairment reversal is recognized. Key assumptions used in determining VIU include
discount rates, growth rates, and expected changes in cash flows. Management estimates discount rates using pre-tax rates that
reflect current market assessments of the time value of money and risks specific to the CGUs. Forecasts are projected beyond three
years based on long-term growth rates ranging from 2.0% to 5.0%. Discount rates are calculated on a pre-tax basis and range from
7.0% to 10.0%.
Impairment reversals of $36.1 and losses of $4.8 were recorded in selling and administrative expenses during the year ended
May 4, 2019 (2018 – $ nil and $9.5). The impairment reversals were a result of improved operating performance at previously
impaired stores in Western Canada.
All impairment losses and reversals relate to the food retailing segment.
63
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited 10. Investment Property
Investment property is primarily comprised of commercial properties owned by the Company held for income generating purposes,
rather than for the principal purpose of the Company’s operating activities.
Cost
Opening balance
Additions
Transfers and adjustments
Disposals and write downs
Closing balance
Accumulated depreciation
and impairment losses
Opening balance
Depreciation
Impairment expense
Transfers and adjustments
Disposals and write downs
Closing balance
Net carrying value
Fair value
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
$
112.8 $
0.3
8.4
(1.7)
119.8 $
$
18.9 $
1.4
–
–
(0.5)
19.8 $
100.0 $
161.0 $
$
$
$
119.0
3.0
(5.6)
(3.6)
112.8
16.0
1.6
0.4
0.9
–
18.9
93.9
158.2
The fair value of investment property is classified as Level 3 on the fair value hierarchy. The fair value represents the price that would
be received to sell the assets in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.
An external, independent valuation company, having appropriate recognized professional qualifications and experience, assisted
in determining the fair value of investment property at May 4, 2019 and May 5, 2018. Additions to investment property through
acquisition are transacted at fair value and therefore carrying value equals fair value at the time of acquisition. Properties reclassified
from property and equipment are valued for disclosure purposes using comparable market information or the use of an external
independent valuation company.
Rental income from investment property included on the consolidated statements of earnings amounted to $2.0 for the year ended
May 4, 2019 (2018 – $3.0).
Direct operating expenses (including repairs and maintenance but excluding depreciation expense) arising from investment
property that generated rental income amounted to $1.1 for the year ended May 4, 2019 (2018 – $2.0). Direct operating expenses
(including repairs and maintenance but excluding depreciation expense) arising from non-income producing investment property
amounted to $0.8 for the year ended May 4, 2019 (2018 – $1.9). All direct operating expenses for investment properties are included
in selling and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of earnings.
Impairment of investment property follows the same methodology as property and equipment (Note 3(q)). Impairment losses of
$ nil and reversals of $ nil were recorded during the year ended May 4, 2019 (2018 – $0.4 and $ nil).
64
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019
11. Intangibles
May 4, 2019
Cost
Opening balance
Additions, separately acquired
Additions from business acquisitions
Transfers and adjustments
Disposals and write downs
Deferred
Brand
Purchase
Names Agreements
Prescription
Files
Software
Off
Market
Leases
Other
Total
$
201.0 $
–
265.0
(0.1)
–
161.0 $
10.4
–
(2.5)
(4.4)
304.1 $
–
–
(0.1)
–
287.9 $
8.1
0.4
(7.6)
(21.2)
172.4 $
–
–
(13.8)
-
207.2 $ 1,333.6
27.2
274.2
(3.5)
(26.7)
8.7
8.8
20.6
(1.1)
Closing balance
$
465.9 $
164.5 $
304.0 $
267.6 $
158.6 $
244.2 $ 1,604.8
Accumulated amortization
and impairment losses
Opening balance
Amortization
Transfers and adjustments
Disposals and write downs
Closing balance
Net carrying value as at May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
Cost
Opening balance
Additions, separately acquired
Transfers and adjustments
Disposals and write downs
$
28.2 $
0.2
(0.1)
–
81.2 $
15.5
–
(5.0)
105.7 $
161.6 $
32.2 $
82.7 $
19.5
(0.1)
–
34.1
–
(21.3)
5.9
(6.2)
–
9.0
–
(0.3)
491.6
84.2
(6.4)
(26.6)
$
$
$
28.3 $
91.7 $
125.1 $
174.4 $
31.9 $
91.4 $
542.8
437.6 $
72.8 $
178.9 $
93.2 $
126.7 $
152.8 $ 1,062.0
Brand
Names
Deferred
Purchase
Agreements
Prescription
Files
Software
Off
Market
Leases
Other
Total
201.0 $
–
–
–
151.2 $
14.7
0.7
(5.6)
303.3 $
–
0.8
–
277.6 $
14.9
14.0
(18.6)
173.1 $
–
(0.2)
(0.5)
209.2 $ 1,315.4
31.7
15.5
(29.0)
2.1
0.2
(4.3)
Closing balance
$
201.0 $
161.0 $
304.1 $
287.9 $
172.4 $
207.2 $ 1,333.6
Accumulated amortization and impairment losses
Opening balance
Amortization
Impairment reversals
Transfers and adjustments
Disposals and write downs
0.1
–
–
–
$
28.1 $
72.5 $
15.9
–
(1.9)
(5.3)
86.6 $
19.5
(0.7)
1.4
(1.1)
146.2 $
25.2 $
76.3 $
35.6
–
(1.6)
(18.6)
7.5
–
–
(0.5)
8.8
–
1.9
(4.3)
434.9
87.4
(0.7)
(0.2)
(29.8)
Closing balance
Net carrying value as at May 5, 2018
$
$
28.2 $
81.2 $
105.7 $
161.6 $
32.2 $
82.7 $
491.6
172.8 $
79.8 $
198.4 $
126.3 $
140.2 $
124.5 $
842.0
Included in other intangibles at May 4, 2019 are liquor licenses of $5.2 (2018 – $5.4). These licenses have options to renew and
it is the Company’s intention to renew these licenses at each renewal date indefinitely. Therefore, cash inflows are expected to
be generated at each store location for which the license is valid, and these assets are considered to have indefinite useful lives.
Also included in other intangibles as at May 4, 2019 and May 5, 2018 are the following amounts with indefinite useful lives: Loyalty
programs – $11.4 (2018 – $11.4) and Private labels – $59.5 (2018 – $59.5). The Company has also determined that Brand names with
a net carrying value of $437.6 (2018 – $172.8) have indefinite useful lives. All intangibles with indefinite useful lives relate to the food
retailing segment. Impairment of these intangibles is assessed at least annually on the same basis as goodwill (Note 12).
Impairment of intangibles follows the same methodology as property and equipment (Note 3(q)). For the year ended May 4, 2019,
impairment losses of $ nil (2018 – $ nil) and reversals of $ nil were recorded (2018 – $0.7).
65
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
12. Goodwill
Opening balance
Additions from business acquisitions
Other adjustments
Closing balance
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
1,001.9 $
569.6
–
1,003.4
0.4
(1.9)
$
1,571.5 $
1,001.9
Goodwill arising from business acquisitions is allocated at the lowest level within the organization at which it is monitored by
management to make business decisions and should not be larger than an operating segment before aggregation. Therefore,
goodwill has been allocated to the following six food retailing operating segments:
Atlantic
Lawtons
Ontario
Quebec
West
Farm Boy
Total
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
193.8 $
17.1
174.3
641.2
3.5
541.6
193.8
17.1
173.0
615.6
2.4
–
$
1,571.5 $
1,001.9
Goodwill arising on business acquisitions is not amortized but is reviewed for impairment on an annual basis, or more frequently, if
indicators that goodwill may be impaired exist. The Company’s annual review of goodwill was performed during the third quarter of
fiscal 2019 and resulted in an impairment of $ nil being recorded (2018 – $ nil). In performing the review, the Company determined
the recoverable amount of the CGU to which goodwill relates based on FVLCD. The key assumptions used by management to
determine the fair value of the CGU includes industry earnings multiples in a range from 8.0 to 14.0 and is classified as Level 2 on
the fair value hierarchy.
13. Income Taxes
Income tax expense varies from the amount that would be computed by applying the combined federal and provincial statutory tax
rate as a result of the following:
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
Earnings before income taxes
Effective combined statutory income tax rate
Income tax expense according to combined statutory income tax rate
Income taxes resulting from:
Non-deductible items
Non-taxable items
Change in tax rates and subsidiary rate differential
Impact of Crombie REIT tax reorganization
Other
$
560.7 $
27.7%
155.3
0.3
(8.7)
(2.6)
–
–
Total income tax expense, combined effective tax rate of 25.7% (2018 – 23.8%)
$
144.3 $
Current year income tax expense attributable to net earnings consists of:
236.0
27.1%
64.0
0.1
(2.9)
(12.8)
5.0
2.8
56.2
Current tax expense
Deferred tax expense (recovery):
Origination and reversal of temporary differences
Change in tax rates
Total
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
35.5 $
109.5
111.4
(2.6)
$
144.3 $
(40.5)
(12.8)
56.2
66
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019
Deferred taxes arising from temporary differences and unused tax losses can be summarized as follows:
May 4, 2019
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Employee future benefits
Equity
Goodwill and intangibles
Inventory
Investments
Long-term debt
Other assets
Other long-term liabilities
Property, equipment, and investment property
Provisions
Partnership deferral reserve
Tax loss carry forwards
Other
Recognized as:
Deferred tax assets
Deferred tax liabilities
Other
Comprehensive
Income and
Equity
Opening
Balance
$
(8.8) $
– $
100.1
3.8
284.5
4.9
(39.9)
7.3
(0.3)
29.8
(105.2)
74.4
11.6
251.5
(0.6)
(18.0)
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
Recognized in:
Business
Acquisitions
Net
Earnings
Closing
Balance
– $
–
–
(77.2)
–
–
–
–
(0.3)
(4.6)
4.6
–
–
–
16.2 $
(2.5)
(3.8)
(95.9)
0.7
1.8
(1.5)
(1.4)
12.5
50.6
(3.0)
(1.2)
(81.1)
(0.2)
7.4
79.6
–
111.4
5.6
(38.1)
5.8
(1.7)
42.0
(59.2)
76.0
10.4
170.4
(0.8)
408.8
$
613.1 $
(18.0) $
(77.5) $
(108.8) $
$
$
754.4 $
(141.3) $
– $
(18.0) $
– $
(77.5) $
(140.1) $
31.3 $
614.3
(205.5)
May 5, 2018
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Employee future benefits
Equity
Goodwill and intangibles
Inventory
Investments
Long-term debt
Other assets
Other long-term liabilities
Property, equipment, and investment property
Provisions
Partnership deferral reserve
Tax loss carry forwards
Other
Other
Comprehensive
Income and
Equity
Opening
Balance
$
(3.7) $
– $
104.6
7.9
248.0
5.1
(34.0)
10.7
(0.4)
27.2
(38.1)
60.0
8.2
170.5
0.1
(5.2)
–
–
–
(1.1)
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
Recognized as:
Deferred tax assets
Deferred tax liabilities
$
566.1 $
(6.3) $
$
$
709.9 $
(143.8) $
– $
(6.3) $
Recognized in:
Business
Acquisitions
Net
Earnings
Closing
Balance
– $
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
– $
– $
– $
(5.1) $
0.7
(4.1)
36.5
(0.2)
(4.8)
(3.4)
0.1
2.6
(67.1)
14.4
3.4
81.0
(0.7)
53.3 $
44.5 $
8.8 $
(8.8)
100.1
3.8
284.5
4.9
(39.9)
7.3
(0.3)
29.8
(105.2)
74.4
11.6
251.5
(0.6)
613.1
754.4
(141.3)
As at May 4, 2019, the Company had approximately $614.0 of Canadian non-capital tax loss carry forwards, which expire between
fiscal 2033 and 2039. The remaining deductible temporary differences do not expire under current income tax legislation. All
deferred tax assets (including tax losses and other tax credits) have been recognized in the consolidated balance sheets as it is
probable that future taxable income will be available to the Company to utilize the benefits of those assets. The amount of deferred
tax assets and deferred tax liabilities that are expected to be recovered or settled beyond the next 12 months is $210.2.
67
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
14. Provisions
May 4, 2019
Opening balance
Provisions made
Provisions used
Provisions reversed
Change due to discounting
Closing balance
Current
Non-current
Total
LEASE CONTRACTS
Lease
Contracts
$
27.7 $
4.8
(11.6)
(2.3)
0.6
19.2 $
10.2 $
9.0
$
$
$
19.2 $
Legal
Environmental
Restructuring
Onerous
Contracts
8.0 $
7.8
(5.6)
(3.1)
–
7.1 $
7.1 $
–
7.1 $
49.4 $
163.2 $
0.8
(1.6)
(7.1)
0.9
72.5
(90.4)
(11.4)
4.2
42.4 $
138.1 $
1.8 $
40.6
97.2 $
40.9
42.4 $
138.1 $
8.5 $
–
(2.8)
–
–
5.7 $
3.1 $
2.6
5.7 $
Total
256.8
85.9
(112.0)
(23.9)
5.7
212.5
119.4
93.1
212.5
Lease contract provisions are recorded when the expected benefits to be derived by the Company from a contract are lower
than the unavoidable costs of meeting the obligations under the contract. The Company records onerous contract provisions for
closed store locations where it has entered into a lease contract. The provision is measured at the lower of the expected cost to
terminate the lease and the expected net cost of continuing the contract. The net cost is derived by considering both the lease
payment and sublease income received. Once the store is closed, a liability is recorded to reflect the present value of the expected
liability associated with any lease contract and other contractually obligated costs. Onerous contract provisions for planned store
or distribution centre closures as part of the Company’s rationalization activities are classified as restructuring provisions and are
measured and recorded using the same methodology. Discounting of provisions resulting from lease contracts has been calculated
using pre-tax discount rates ranging between 7.0% and 9.0%.
LEGAL COSTS
Legal provisions relate to claims of $7.1 (2018 – $8.0) that are outstanding as at May 4, 2019 that arose in the ordinary course of business.
ENVIRONMENTAL COSTS
In accordance with legal and environmental policy requirements, the Company has recorded provisions for locations requiring
environmental restoration. These provisions relate to decommissioning liabilities recorded for gas station locations owned by the
Company and other sites where restoration will be incurred at the net present value of the estimated future remediation costs.
Discounting of environmental related provisions has been calculated using pre-tax discount rates ranging between 4.0% and 6.0%.
RESTRUCTURING
Restructuring provisions made for fiscal year ended May 4, 2019 were $72.5. Of this amount, $35.0 relates to voluntary buyouts
of union employees in British Columbia and an additional $11.2 to store closures. These costs have been recorded in selling and
administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of earnings. Provisions used of $90.4 relate to the Company’s initiatives
to simplify organizational structures and reduce costs. Of this amount, $58.9 relates to a single organization restructuring initiative.
Discounting of restructuring provisions has been calculated using a pre-tax discount rate of 7.0%.
68
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019
15. Long-Term Debt
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
First mortgage loans, weighted average interest rate 5.84%, due 2021 – 2033
Medium term notes, Series D, interest rate 6.06%, due October 29, 2035
Medium term notes, Series E, interest rate 5.79%, due October 6, 2036
Medium term notes, Series F, interest rate 6.64%, due June 7, 2040
Series 2013-1 Notes, interest rate 3.52%, due August 8, 2018
Series 2013-2 Notes, interest rate 4.70%, due August 8, 2023
Notes payable and other debt primarily at interest rates fluctuating with the prime rate
Credit facility, expiring November 4, 2020, floating interest rate tied to bankers’ acceptance rates
Credit facility, expiring December 10, 2020, floating interest rate tied to bankers’ acceptance rates
Credit facility, expiring November 4, 2022, floating interest rate tied to bankers’ acceptance rates
$
Unamortized transaction costs
Finance lease obligations, weighted average interest rate 6.05%, due 2019 – 2040
Less amount due within one year
5.8 $
175.0
125.0
150.0
–
500.0
140.4
500.0
400.0
–
1,996.2
(4.4)
29.1
2,020.9
36.5
$
1,984.4 $
6.7
175.0
125.0
150.0
500.0
500.0
137.1
–
–
43.1
1,636.9
(6.0)
36.0
1,666.9
527.4
1,139.5
First mortgage loans are secured by land, buildings, and specific charges on certain assets. Finance lease obligations are secured
by the related finance lease asset. Medium term notes and Series 2013-1 and 2013-2 Notes are unsecured. Series 2013-1 Notes
matured on August 8, 2018.
The Company has a $250.0 credit facility with a maturity date of November 4, 2022. As of May 4, 2019, the outstanding amount of
the credit facility was $ nil (2018 – $43.1). Interest payable fluctuates with changes in the bankers’ acceptance rate, Canadian prime
rate, or the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”).
On June 2, 2017, Sobeys established a senior, unsecured non-revolving credit facility for $500.0. The facility bears floating interest
tied to Canadian prime rate or bankers’ acceptance rates. On August 8, 2018, Sobeys fully utilized the credit facility to repay long-
term debt.
On December 5, 2018, Sobeys established a senior, unsecured non-revolving credit facility for $400.0. The facility bears floating
interest tied to Canadian prime rate or bankers’ acceptance rates. The facility was fully utilized on December 10, 2018, with the
proceeds used to fund part of the Farm Boy acquisition.
Sobeys has a revolving term credit facility (“RT Facility”) with a $650.0 principal amount. As of May 4, 2019, the outstanding amount
of the RT Facility was $ nil (2018 – $ nil), and Sobeys has issued $65.9 in letters of credit against the RT Facility (2018 – $39.5). Interest
payable on the RT Facility fluctuates with changes in the bankers’ acceptance rate, Canadian prime rate, or LIBOR, and the facility
matures on November 4, 2022.
The following table reconciles the changes in cash flows from financing activities for long-term debt.
Opening balance
Issuance of debt
Repayments of long-term debt and credit facility
Advances on credit facilities
Total cash flow from (used in) long-term debt financing activities
Deferred financing costs
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
1,666.9 $
1,870.8
58.3
(605.2)
900.0
353.1
0.9
63.7
(313.2)
43.1
(206.4)
2.5
Closing balance
$
2,020.9 $
1,666.9
Principal debt retirement in each of the next five fiscal years is as follows:
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Thereafter
$
30.0
908.7
7.2
6.4
505.9
538.0
69
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
FINANCE LEASE LIABILITIES
Finance lease liabilities are payable in each of the next five fiscal years as follows:
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Thereafter
Total
Future Minimum
Lease Payments
Present Value of
Minimum Lease
Payments
Interest
$
$
8.0 $
5.4
3.7
2.5
2.2
17.4
39.2 $
1.5 $
1.2
1.0
0.8
0.7
4.9
10.1 $
6.5
4.2
2.7
1.7
1.5
12.5
29.1
During fiscal 2019, there were no additions to the Company’s finance lease obligation (2018 – $ nil).
16. Other Long-Term Liabilities
Deferred lease obligation
Deferred revenue
Non-controlling interest liabilities
Other
Total
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
$
165.4 $
6.6
90.1
6.9
269.0 $
148.2
7.0
–
3.4
158.6
17. Employee Future Benefits
The Company has several defined contribution, defined benefit, and multi-employer plans providing pension and other post-
retirement benefits to most of its employees.
DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PENSION PLANS
The contributions required by the employee and the employer are specified. The employee’s pension depends on what level
of retirement income can be achieved with the combined total of employee and employer contributions and investment income
over the period of plan membership, and annuity purchase rates at the time of the employee’s retirement.
DEFINED BENEFIT PENSION PLANS
The ultimate retirement benefit is defined by a formula that provides a unit of benefit for each year of service. Employee
contributions, if required, pay for part of the cost of the benefit, and employer contributions fund the balance. The employer
contributions are not specified or defined within the pension plan text, but are based on the result of actuarial valuations which
determine the level of funding required to meet the total obligation as estimated at the time of the valuation.
The defined benefit plan typically exposes the Company to actuarial risks such as interest rate risk, mortality risk and salary risk.
Interest rate risk
The present value of the defined benefit liability is calculated using a discount rate that reflects the average yield, as at the
measurement date, on high quality corporate bonds of similar duration to the plans’ liabilities. A decrease in the market yield on
high quality corporate bonds will increase the Company’s defined benefit liability.
Mortality risk
The present value of the defined benefit plan is calculated by reference to the best estimate of the mortality of plan participants
both during and after their employment. An increase in the life expectancy of the plan participants will increase the plan’s liability.
Salary risk
The present value of the defined benefit plan liability is calculated by reference to the future salary of the plan participants. As such,
an increase in the salary of plan participants will increase the plan’s liability.
70
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019
The Company uses either January 1 or December 31 as an actuarial valuation date and May 1 as a measurement date for accounting
purposes, for its defined benefit pension plans.
Retirement pension plans
Senior management pension plans
Other benefit plans
MULTI-EMPLOYER PLANS
Most Recent Valuation Date
Next Required Valuation Date
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
January 1, 2019
December 31, 2020
December 31, 2019
January 1, 2022
The Company participates in various multi-employer pension plans which are administered by independent boards of trustees
generally consisting of an equal number of union and employer representatives. Approximately 16% of employees in the Company
and of its franchisees and affiliates participate in these plans. Defined benefit multi-employer pension plans are accounted for as
defined contribution plans as adequate information to account for the Company’s participation in the plans is not available due to
the size and number of contributing employers in the plans. The Company’s responsibility to make contributions to these plans is
limited by amounts established pursuant to its collective agreements. The contributions made by the Company to multi-employer
plans are expensed as contributions are due.
During the year ended May 4, 2019, the Company recognized an expense of $44.1 (2018 – $46.3) in operating income, which
represents the contributions made in connection with multi-employer pension plans. During fiscal 2019, the Company expects to
continue to make contributions into these multi-employer pension plans.
OTHER BENEFIT PLANS
The Company also offers certain employee post-retirement and post-employment benefit plans which are not funded and include
health care, life insurance, and dental benefits.
DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLANS
The total expense, and cash contributions, for the Company’s defined contribution plans was $32.6 for the year ended May 4, 2019
(2018 – $32.1).
DEFINED BENEFIT PLANS
Information about the Company’s defined benefit plans, in aggregate, is as follows:
Pension Benefit Plans
Other Benefit Plans
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
Defined benefit obligation
Balance, beginning of year
Current service cost, net of employee contributions
Interest cost
Benefits paid
Past service costs – curtailments
Settlements
Remeasurement – actuarial losses (gains) included
in other comprehensive income
$
833.2 $
1.2
27.2
(55.4)
(2.2)
0.5
890.3 $
1.6
27.3
(58.7)
(2.9)
1.3
158.7 $
3.5
5.3
(5.9)
–
–
15.3
(25.7)
(48.4)
Balance, end of year
$
819.8 $
833.2 $
113.2 $
164.3
3.3
5.3
(5.6)
(0.4)
–
(8.2)
158.7
Plan assets
Fair value, beginning of year
Interest income on plan assets
Remeasurement return (loss) on plan assets
(excluding amount in net interest)
Employer contributions
Benefits paid
Administrative costs
Fair value, end of year
Pension Benefit Plans
Other Benefit Plans
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
630.7 $
680.6 $
20.5
33.0
19.5
(55.4)
(1.4)
20.7
(19.4)
9.3
(58.7)
(1.8)
– $
–
–
5.9
(5.9)
–
$
646.9 $
630.7 $
– $
–
–
–
5.6
(5.6)
–
–
71
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
Funded status
Total fair value of plan assets
Present value of unfunded obligations
Present value of partially funded obligations
Accrued benefit liabilities
Expenses
Current service cost, net of employee contributions
Net interest on net defined benefit liability
Administrative costs
Past service costs – curtailments
Settlement loss
Expenses
Pension Benefit Plans
Other Benefit Plans
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
646.9 $
(92.8)
(727.0)
630.7 $
(93.2)
(740.0)
– $
(113.2)
–
$
(172.9) $
(202.5) $
(113.2) $
–
(158.7)
–
(158.7)
Pension Benefit Plans
Other Benefit Plans
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
$
1.2 $
6.7
1.4
(2.2)
0.5
7.6 $
1.6 $
6.6
1.8
(2.9)
1.3
8.4 $
3.5 $
5.3
–
–
–
8.8 $
3.3
5.3
–
(0.4)
–
8.2
Current and past service costs have been recognized within selling and administrative expenses, whereas interest costs and
return on plan assets (excluding amounts in net interest costs) have been recognized within finance costs, net on the consolidated
statements of earnings.
Actuarial gains and losses recognized directly in other comprehensive income:
Pension Benefit Plans
Other Benefit Plans
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
Remeasurement effects recognized in
other comprehensive income
(Return) loss on plan assets (excluding amounts in net interest)
Actuarial gain – experience changes
Actuarial loss (gain) – financial assumptions
Remeasurement effects recognized in
other comprehensive income
$
(33.0) $
(6.9)
22.2
19.4 $
(4.1)
(21.6)
– $
(49.1)
0.7
$
17.7 $
6.3 $
48.4 $
–
–
(8.2)
8.2
The significant actuarial assumptions adopted in measuring the Company’s accrued benefit obligations are as follows (weighted-
average assumptions as of May 4, 2019):
Discount rate
Rate of compensation increase
Pension Benefit Plans
Other Benefit Plans
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
3.20%
3.50%
3.40%
3.50%
3.10%
3.40%
For measurement purposes, a 5.25% fiscal 2019 annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered health care benefits was
assumed (2018 – 5.50%). The cumulative rate expectation to 2020 and thereafter is 5.00%.
These assumptions were developed by management under consideration of expert advice provided by independent actuarial
appraisers. These assumptions are used in the determination of the Company’s defined benefit obligations and should be regarded
as management’s best estimate. However, the actual outcome may vary. Estimation uncertainties exist especially regarding medical
cost trends, which may vary significantly in future appraisals of the Company’s obligations.
72
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019
The table below outlines the sensitivity of the fiscal 2019 key economic assumptions used in measuring the accrued benefit plan
obligations and related expenses of the Company’s pension and other benefit plans. The sensitivity of each key assumption has
been calculated independently. Changes to more than one assumption simultaneously may amplify or reduce impact on the
accrued benefit obligations or benefit plan expenses.
Discount rate(2)
Impact of: 1% increase
Impact of: 1% decrease
Growth rate of health care costs(3)
Impact of: 1% increase
Impact of: 1% decrease
Pension Benefit Plans
Other Benefit Plans
Benefit
Obligations
$
$
3.20%
(100.9) $
120.5 $
Benefit
Cost(1)
3.20%
(2.7) $
1.2 $
$
$
Benefit
Obligations
3.10%
(13.1) $
16.1 $
5.25%
6.0 $
(5.2) $
Benefit
Cost(1)
3.10%
0.3
(0.4)
5.25%
1.2
(1.0)
(1) Reflects the impact on the current service cost, interest cost, and net interest on defined benefit liability (asset).
(2) Based on weighted average of discount rates related to all plans.
(3) Gradually decreasing to 5.00% in 2020 and remaining at that level thereafter.
The asset mix of the defined benefit pension plans as at year end is as follows:
Canadian equity funds
Foreign equity funds
Fixed income funds
Net working capital
Total investments
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
6.7%
14.9%
78.1%
0.3%
6.6%
14.1%
79.1%
0.2%
100.0%
100.0%
Within these securities are investments in Empire Non-Voting Class A shares. The pro-rata market value of these shares at year end
is as follows:
Empire Company Limited Non-Voting Class A shares
$
9.2
1.4% $
9.9
May 4, 2019
% of Plan
Assets
May 5, 2018
% of Plan
Assets
1.5%
All the securities are valued based on quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities or based on
inputs other than quoted prices in active markets that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly (as prices) or indirectly
(derived from prices).
The actual return (loss) on plan assets was $52.1 for the year ended May 4, 2019 (2018 – ($0.5)).
Management’s best estimate of contributions expected to be paid to the defined benefit pension plans during the annual period
beginning on May 5, 2019 and ending on May 2, 2020 is $12.1.
18. Capital Stock
Authorized
2002 Preferred shares, par value of $25 each, issuable in series
Non-Voting Class A shares, without par value
Class B common shares, without par value, voting
Number of Shares
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
991,980,000
768,105,849
122,400,000
991,980,000
768,105,849
122,400,000
Issued and outstanding
Non-Voting Class A shares, without par value
Class B common shares, without par value, voting
Shares held in trust
Total
Number of Shares
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
173,661,495 $
98,138,079
(271,968)
2,040.6 $
7.3
(5.3)
2,038.2
7.3
(6.0)
$
2,042.6 $
2,039.5
73
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
Under certain circumstances, where an offer (as defined in the share conditions) is made to purchase Class B common shares,
the holders of the Non-Voting Class A shares shall be entitled to receive a follow-up offer at the highest price per share paid,
pursuant to such offer to purchase Class B common shares.
During fiscal 2019, the Company paid common dividends of $119.5 (2018 – $114.0) to its equity holders. This represents a payment
of $0.44 per share (2018 – $0.42 per share) for common share holders.
The Company has established a trust fund to facilitate the purchase of Non-Voting Class A shares for the future settlement
of vested units under the Company’s equity settled stock-based compensation plans. Contributions to the trust fund and the
Non-Voting Class A shares purchased are held by AST Trust Company (Canada) as trustee. The trust fund is an SE and as such
the accounts of the trust fund are included on the consolidated financial statements of the Company. The following represents
the activity of shares held in trust:
Shares held in trust
Balance, beginning of year
Purchased
Issued
Balance, end of year
19. Other Income
Net gain on disposal of assets
Lease income from owned property
Total
20. Employee Benefits Expense
Wages, salaries and other short-term employment benefits
Post-employment benefits
Termination benefits
Total
21. Finance Costs, Net
Finance income
Interest income from cash and cash equivalents
Fair value gains on forward contracts
Investment income
Accretion income on loans and other receivables
Total finance income
Finance costs
Interest expense on financial liabilities measured at amortized cost
Net pension finance costs
Accretion expense on provisions
Total finance costs
Finance costs, net
74
Number of Shares
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
(308,504) $
(3,777)
40,313
(271,968) $
(6.0) $
(0.1)
0.8
(5.3) $
(10.7)
(0.1)
4.8
(6.0)
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
$
48.9 $
19.4
68.3 $
37.3
23.9
61.2
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
3,156.2 $
37.0
9.8
$
3,203.0 $
3,101.7
36.8
121.6
3,260.1
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
8.3 $
3.7
–
0.6
12.6
86.5
12.0
5.7
104.2
$
91.6 $
1.9
3.2
0.2
0.7
6.0
96.9
11.9
7.7
116.5
110.5
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019
22. Earnings per Share
Weighted average number of shares – basic (Note 18)
Shares deemed to be issued for no consideration in respect of stock-based payments
Weighted average number of shares – diluted
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
271,940,649
614,062
271,783,850
278,417
272,554,711
272,062,267
23. Business Acquisitions
During fiscal 2019, the Company completed the acquisition of Farm Boy, an Ontario-based grocery chain and acquired franchise
and non-franchise stores, including Kim Phat, an Asian food retailer. The results of these acquisitions have been included in
the consolidated financial results of the Company since their acquisition dates and were accounted for through the use of the
acquisition method. Goodwill recorded on the acquisitions of franchise and non-franchise stores relate to the acquired workforce
and customer base of the existing store location, along with the synergies expected from combining the efforts of the acquired
stores with existing stores.
The following table represents the amounts of identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and non-controlling interest resulting
from acquisitions, including Kim Phat, but excluding Farm Boy, during the year ended May 4, 2019. The estimated fair value of
identifiable net assets and goodwill acquired have been determined provisionally and are subject to adjustment pending the
finalization of the valuations and related accounting.
Receivables
Inventories
Prepaid expenses
Property and equipment
Intangibles
Goodwill
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Other assets and liabilities
Deferred tax liability
Non-controlling interest
Total consideration
$
$
1.7
8.4
0.5
5.5
8.8
28.0
(6.3)
(2.4)
(2.5)
(18.1)
23.6
From the date of acquisition, the above acquired businesses contributed sales of $75.1 and net losses of ($0.5) for the year ended
May 4, 2019.
In connection with Sobeys’ 51% acquisition of Kim Phat, the parties entered into put and call options such that Sobeys may acquire
the remaining 49% nine years after the date of acquisition. In addition to recognizing non-controlling interest, Sobeys recognized a
financial liability of $9.1 at the date of acquisition.
Farm Boy Acquisition
On September 24, 2018, Sobeys, through a subsidiary, signed an agreement to acquire the business of Farm Boy, a food retailer
with a network of 26 stores in Ontario, for a total purchase price of $800.0, subject to customary closing adjustments. The Company
financed the transaction through a combination of cash on hand and a new $400.0 senior, unsecured non-revolving credit facility.
The acquisition closed effective December 10, 2018.
The following table represents the amounts of identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and non-controlling interest resulting
from the acquisition of Farm Boy, at December 10, 2018. These amounts have been determined provisionally and are subject to
adjustment pending the finalization of the valuations and related accounting adjustments.
Receivables
Inventories
Prepaid expenses
Property and equipment
Intangibles
Goodwill
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Other assets and liabilities
Deferred tax liability
Non-controlling interest
Total consideration
$
$
3.2
16.1
2.0
80.2
265.4
541.6
(32.4)
5.0
(75.0)
(48.8)
757.3
75
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
From the date of acquisition, the business acquired contributed sales of $212.7 and net earnings of $7.9 for the year ended May 4, 2019.
Goodwill of $541.6 was recognized as the excess of the acquisition cost over the fair value of net identifiable assets at the date
of acquisition. The goodwill recognized is attributable mainly to the expected future growth potential of the business and the
customer base of the acquired retail store locations. The goodwill recognized is not expected to be deductible for tax purposes.
Intangibles of $265.0 relate to the fair value of Farm Boy’s banner and private label brand.
Acquisition costs of $6.5 for the year ended May 4, 2019, were incurred related to external legal, consulting, due diligence, financial
advisory and other closing costs. These costs have been included in selling and administrative expenses in the consolidated
statements of earnings.
As part of the Farm Boy acquisition, Farm Boy’s co-CEOs, together with members of their senior management team, have
reinvested for a combined 12% interest of the continuing Farm Boy business, resulting in non-controlling interest. Concurrent with
the reinvestment, all parties entered into put and call options such that Sobeys may acquire the remaining 12% at any time after
five years following the acquisition date. As a result, a non-controlling interest has been recognized at the date of acquisition, as
well as a financial liability of $70.0, based on the present value of the amount payable on exercise of the non-controlling interest
put liability in accordance with IFRS 9. The non-controlling interest put liability is calculated based on the amount payable
upon exercise based on management’s best estimate of future earnings of Farm Boy at a predetermined date. The initial and
subsequent fair value measurement of the put liability is classified as Level 3 within the three-level hierarchy of IFRS 13 “Fair value
measurement”. Subsequent remeasurement will be recorded through retained earnings.
24. Guarantees, Commitments and Contingent Liabilities
GUARANTEES
Franchisees and affiliates
Sobeys is party to several franchise and operating agreements as part of its business model. These agreements contain clauses
which require Sobeys to provide support to franchisee and affiliate operators to offset or mitigate retail store losses, reduce store
rental payments, minimize the impact of promotional pricing, and assist in covering other store related operating expenses. Not
all of the financial support noted above will apply in each instance as the provisions of the agreements vary. Sobeys will continue
to provide financial support pursuant to the franchise and operating agreements in future years.
During fiscal 2009, Sobeys entered into an additional credit enhancement contract in the form of a standby letter of credit for
certain franchisees and affiliates for the purchase and installation of equipment. Under the terms of the contract, should franchisees
and affiliates be unable to fulfill their lease obligations or provide an acceptable remedy, Sobeys would be required to fund the
greater of $6.0 or 10.0% (2018 – $6.0 or 10.0%) of the authorized and outstanding obligation annually. Under the terms of the
contract, Sobeys is required to provide a letter of credit in the amount of the outstanding guarantee, to be renewed each calendar
year. This credit enhancement allows Sobeys to provide favourable financing terms to certain franchisees and affiliates. As at May 4,
2019, the amount of the guarantee was $6.0 (2018 – $6.0).
Other
At May 4, 2019, the Company had entered into letters of credit issued in an aggregate amount of $79.5 (2018 – $52.7) to support
the Company’s obligations.
Sobeys, through its subsidiaries, has guaranteed the payment of obligations under certain commercial development agreements.
As at May 4, 2019, Sobeys has guaranteed $43.5 (2018 – $43.5) in obligations related to these agreements.
Upon entering into the lease of its Mississauga distribution centre, in March 2000, Sobeys guaranteed to the landlord the performance,
by SERCA Foodservice Inc. (formerly a subsidiary of Sobeys Inc.), of all its obligations under the lease. The remaining term of the
lease is one year with an aggregate obligation of $4.3 (2018 – $7.4). At the time of the sale of assets of SERCA Foodservice Inc.
to Sysco Corp., the lease of the Mississauga distribution centre was assigned to and assumed by the purchaser, and Sysco Corp.
agreed to indemnify and hold Sobeys harmless from any liability it may incur pursuant to its guarantee.
76
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019 COMMITMENTS
Operating leases, as lessee
The Company leases various retail stores, distribution centres, offices, and equipment under non-cancellable operating leases.
These leases have varying terms, escalation clauses, renewal options, and bases on which contingent rent is payable.
The total net, future minimum rent payable under the Company’s operating leases as of May 4, 2019 is approximately $4,825.2.
This reflects a gross lease obligation of $5,837.8 reduced by expected sub-lease income of $1,012.6. The net commitments over
the next five fiscal years are:
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Thereafter
$
Third Parties
Related Parties
Net Lease
Obligation
Gross Lease
Obligation
Net Lease
Obligation
Gross Lease
Obligation
286.6 $
267.8
243.8
214.9
189.0
1,204.5
411.8 $
384.9
353.3
316.1
276.4
1,676.7
162.9 $
163.6
164.0
164.7
166.6
1,596.8
162.9
163.6
164.0
164.7
166.6
1,596.8
The Company recorded $596.9 (2018 – $575.6) as an expense for minimum lease payments for the year ended May 4, 2019. The
expense was partly offset by sub-lease income of $125.2 (2018 – $118.3), and a further $12.1 (2018 – $5.3) of expense was recognized
for contingent rent.
Operating leases, as lessor
The Company leases most investment properties under operating leases. These leases have varying terms, escalation clauses,
renewal options and bases on which contingent rent is receivable.
Rental income for the year ended May 4, 2019 was $18.8 (2018 – $23.6) and was recognized within other income on the consolidated
statements of earnings. In addition, the Company recognized $0.2 of contingent rent for the year ended May 4, 2019 (2018 – $0.3).
The lease payments expected to be received over the next five fiscal years are:
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Thereafter
$
Third Parties
10.5
8.8
8.4
7.5
6.5
34.6
CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
On June 21, 2005, Sobeys received a notice of reassessment from Canada Revenue Agency (“CRA”) for fiscal years 1999 and 2000
related to Lumsden Brothers Limited, a wholesale subsidiary of Sobeys, and the Goods and Service Tax (“GST”). The reassessment
related to GST on sales of tobacco products to status Indians. CRA asserts that Sobeys was obliged to collect GST on sales of
tobacco products to status Indians. The total tax, interest and penalties in the reassessment was $13.6 (2018 – $13.6). Sobeys has
reviewed this matter, has received legal advice, and believes it was not required to collect GST. During fiscal 2006, Sobeys filed
a Notice of Objection with CRA. The matter is still under dispute and Sobeys has filed a Notice of Appeal with the Tax Court of
Canada. Accordingly, Sobeys has not recorded on its statements of earnings any of the tax, interest or penalties in the notice of
reassessment. Sobeys has deposited with CRA funds equal to the total tax, interest and penalties in the reassessment and has
recorded this amount as an other long-term receivable from CRA pending resolution of the matter.
There are various claims and litigation, with which the Company is involved, arising out of the ordinary course of business
operations. The Company’s management does not consider the exposure to such litigation to be material, although this cannot
be predicted with certainty.
In the ordinary course of business, the Company is subject to ongoing audits by tax authorities. While the Company believes
that its tax filing positions are appropriate and supportable, from time to time certain matters are reviewed and challenged by
the tax authorities.
77
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
25. Financial Instruments
CREDIT RISK
Credit risk is the risk of an unexpected loss if a customer or counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet its contractual
obligations. The Company’s financial instruments that are exposed to concentrations of credit risk are primarily cash and cash
equivalents, receivables, loans and other receivables, derivative contracts and guarantees.
The Company’s maximum exposure to credit risk corresponds to the carrying amount for all cash and cash equivalents, loans and
receivables, and guarantee contracts for franchisees and affiliates (Note 24).
The Company mitigates credit risk associated with its trade receivables and loans receivables through established credit approvals,
limits and a regular monitoring process. The Company generally considers the credit quality of its financial assets that are neither
past due or impaired to be solid. The Company regularly monitors collection performance and pledged security for all of its
receivables and loans and other receivables to ensure adequate payments are being received and adequate security is available.
Pledged security can vary by agreement, but generally includes inventory, fixed assets including land and/or building, as well as
personal guarantees. Credit risk is further mitigated due to the large number of customers and their dispersion across geographic
areas. The Company only enters into derivative contracts with counterparties that are dual rated by recognized credit rating
agencies and have a credit rating of “A” or better to minimize credit risk.
Receivables are substantially comprised of balances due from independent accounts, franchisee or affiliate locations as well as
rebates and allowances from vendors. The due date of these amounts can vary by agreement but in general balances over 30 days
are considered past due. The aging of the receivables is as follows:
0 – 30 days
31 – 90 days
Greater than 90 days
Total receivables before allowance for credit losses
Less: allowance for credit losses
Receivables
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
386.8 $
10.9
73.3
471.0
(26.8)
$
444.2 $
344.9
24.3
91.5
460.7
(27.5)
433.2
Interest earned on past due accounts is recorded as a reduction to selling and administrative expenses on the consolidated
statements of earnings. Receivables are classified as current on the consolidated balance sheets as of May 4, 2019.
Allowance for credit losses is reviewed at each balance sheet date. An allowance is taken on receivables from independent
accounts, as well as receivables, loans and other receivables from franchisee or affiliate locations and is recorded as a reduction
to its respective receivable account on the consolidated balance sheets. The change in allowance for credit losses is recorded as
selling and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of earnings and is presented as follows:
Allowance, beginning of year
Provision for losses
Recoveries
Write-offs
Allowance, end of year
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
27.5 $
7.4
(1.9)
(6.2)
$
26.8 $
27.6
4.1
(1.7)
(2.5)
27.5
78
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019
LIQUIDIT Y RISK
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company may not have cash available to satisfy financial liabilities as they come due. The Company
actively maintains a committed credit facility to ensure that it has sufficient available funds to meet current and foreseeable future
financial requirements at a reasonable cost.
The Company monitors capital markets and the related conditions, and monitors its cash flows in order to assist in optimizing its
cash position and evaluate longer term cash and funding requirements. Market conditions allowing, the Company will access debt
capital markets for various long-term debt maturities and as other liabilities come due or as assessed to be appropriate in order to
minimize risk and optimize pricing.
The following table summarizes the amount and the contractual maturities of both the interest and principal portion of significant
financial liabilities on an undiscounted basis as at May 4, 2019:
Derivative financial liabilities
Foreign currency swaps
Non-controlling interest liabilities
Non-derivative financial liabilities
Accounts payable and
accrued liabilities
Long-term debt
Total
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Thereafter
Total
$
24.1 $
–
13.3 $
–
– $
–
– $
–
– $
– $
81.0
9.1
37.4
90.1
2,496.4
123.8
–
977.2
–
65.0
–
63.0
–
541.8
–
942.4
2,496.4
2,713.2
$ 2,644.3 $
990.5 $
65.0 $
63.0 $
622.8 $
951.5 $ 5,337.1
FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The fair value of a financial instrument is the estimated amount that the Company would receive to sell financial assets or pay to
transfer financial liabilities in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.
The book value of cash and cash equivalents, receivables, current portion of loans and other receivables, and accounts payable and
accrued liabilities approximates fair value at the balance sheet dates due to the short-term maturity of these instruments.
The book value of the long-term portion of loans and other receivables approximate fair values at the balance sheet dates due to
the current market rates associated with these instruments.
The fair value of the variable rate long-term debt approximates its carrying amount based on current market rates and consistency
of credit spread. The fair value of long-term debt has been estimated by discounting future cash flows at a rate offered for
borrowings of similar maturities and credit quality.
The fair value of derivative financial assets and liabilities, classified as Level 2, is estimated using valuation models that utilize market
based observable inputs. Management believes that its valuation technique is appropriate.
The fair value of the non-controlling interest put liabilities associated with the acquisitions of Farm Boy and Kim Phat is equivalent
to the present value of the non-controlling interest buyout price which is based on the future earnings of these entities at a
predetermined date. The fair value of these options is classified as Level 3 within the three-level hierarchy of IFRS 13.
There were no transfers between classes of the fair value hierarchy during the year ended May 4, 2019.
The carrying amount of the Company’s financial instruments approximates their fair values with the following exception:
Long-term debt
Total carrying amount
Total fair value
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
$
2,020.9 $
2,086.8 $
1,666.9
1,707.6
As at May 4, 2019, the fair value hierarchy includes financial assets at fair value through profit or loss of $ nil, $1.4, and $ nil for Levels
1, 2 and 3 respectively (2018 – $ nil, $ nil, and $ nil).
As at May 4, 2019, the fair value hierarchy includes financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss of $ nil, $0.1, and $90.1 for
Levels 1, 2 and 3 respectively (2018 – $ nil, $0.2, and $ nil).
79
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Derivative financial instruments are recorded on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value unless the derivative instrument is
a contract to buy or sell a non-financial item in accordance with the Company’s expected purchase, sale or usage requirements,
referred to as a “normal purchase” or “normal sale”. Changes in the fair values of derivative financial instruments are recognized
in net earnings or loss unless it qualifies and is designated as an effective cash flow hedge or a normal purchase or normal sale.
Normal purchases and normal sales are exempt from the application of the standard and are accounted for as executory contracts.
Changes in fair value of a derivative financial instrument designated as a cash flow hedge are recorded in other assets and other
long-term liabilities with the effective portion recorded in other comprehensive income or loss.
CASH FLOW HEDGES
The Company’s cash flow hedges consist principally of foreign currency swaps, electricity sales agreements, and natural gas sales
agreements. Foreign exchange contracts are used to hedge future purchases or expenditures of foreign currency denominated
goods or services. Electricity and natural gas sales agreements are used to mitigate the risk of changes in market prices of electricity
and natural gas. Gains and losses are initially recognized directly in other comprehensive income or loss and are transferred to net
earnings or loss when the forecast cash flows affect income or expense for the year.
As of May 4, 2019, the fair values of the outstanding derivatives designated as cash flow hedges of forecast transactions were assets
of $1.4 (2018 – $ nil) and liabilities of $0.1 (2018 – $0.2).
Cash flows from cash flow hedges are expected to flow over the next two years until fiscal 2021, and are expected to be recognized
in net earnings or loss over this period, and, in the case of foreign currency swaps, over the life of the related debt in which a
portion of the initial cost is being hedged.
INTEREST RATE RISK
Interest rate risk is the potential for financial loss arising from changes in interest rates. Financial instruments that potentially subject
the Company to interest rate risk include financial liabilities with floating interest rates.
The Company manages interest rate risk by monitoring market conditions and the impact of interest rate fluctuations on its debt.
The majority of the Company’s long-term debt is at fixed interest rates. Approximately 30.3% (2018 – 8.4%) of the Company’s long-
term debt is exposed to interest rate risk due to floating rates.
Net earnings or loss is sensitive to the impact of a change in interest rates on the average balance of interest bearing financial
liabilities during the year. For the year ending May 4, 2019, the Company’s average outstanding unhedged floating rate debt was
$567.4 (2018 – $151.5). An increase (decrease) of 25 basis points would have impacted net earnings by $1.0 ($1.0) (2018 – $0.3 ($0.3))
as a result of the Company’s exposure to interest rate fluctuations on its unhedged floating rate debt.
FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE RISK
The Company conducts the vast majority of its business in Canadian dollars. The Company’s foreign currency exchange risk
principally relates to purchases made in U.S. dollars. In addition, the Company also uses forward contracts to fix the exchange
rate on some of its expected requirements for foreign currencies. Amounts received or paid related to instruments used to hedge
foreign exchange, including any gains and losses, are recognized in the cost of purchases. The Company does not consider its
exposure to foreign currency exchange risk to be material.
The Company has entered into foreign currency forward contracts and foreign currency swaps for the primary purpose of limiting
exposure to exchange rate fluctuations relating to expenditures denominated in foreign currencies. These contracts are designated
as hedging instruments for accounting purposes. Accordingly, the effective portion of the change in the fair value of the forward
contracts are accumulated in other comprehensive income or loss until the variability in cash flows being hedged is recognized in
net earnings or loss in future accounting periods.
The Company estimates that a 10% increase (decrease) in applicable foreign currency exchange rates would impact net earnings by
$ nil ($ nil) (2018 – $ nil ($ nil)) and other comprehensive income by $2.7 ($2.7) (2018 – $1.1 ($1.1)) for foreign currency derivatives in
place at year end.
80
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019 26. Segmented Information
The Company’s reportable segments are Food retailing and Investments and other operations. The Food retailing segment is
comprised of six operating segments: Sobeys West, Sobeys Ontario, Sobeys Quebec, Sobeys Atlantic, Lawtons, and Farm Boy.
These operating segments have been aggregated into one reportable segment, “Food retailing”, as they all share similar economic
characteristics such as: product offerings, customer base and distribution methods. The Investments and other operations segment
principally consists of investments, at equity, in Crombie REIT, real estate partnerships, and various other corporate operations.
Segment results and assets include items directly attributable to a segment as well as those that can be allocated on a reasonable basis.
All inter-segment transfers are carried out at arm’s length prices. The measurement policies the Company uses for segment
reporting under IFRS 8, “Operating segments”, are the same as those used on its consolidated financial statements.
No asymmetrical allocations of income, expense or assets have been applied between segments.
All sales are generated by the Food retailing segment. Operating income generated by each of the Company’s business segments
is summarized as follows:
Segmented operating income
Food retailing
Investments and other operations
Crombie REIT
Real estate partnerships
Other operations, net of corporate expenses
Total
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
561.8 $
273.6
63.6
23.4
3.5
90.5
39.5
33.9
(0.5)
72.9
$
652.3 $
346.5
Segment operating income can be reconciled to the Company’s earnings before income taxes as follows:
Total operating income
Finance costs, net
Total
Total assets by segment
Food retailing
Investments and other operations
Total
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
652.3 $
91.6
$
560.7 $
346.5
110.5
236.0
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
8,921.4 $
681.0
$
9,602.4 $
8,010.4
651.6
8,662.0
81
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
27. Stock-Based Compensation
PERFORMANCE SHARE UNIT PLAN
The Company awards performance share units (“PSUs”) to certain employees. The number of PSUs that vest under an award, for the
most part, is dependent on time and the achievement of specific performance measures. Upon vesting, each employee is entitled
to receive Non-Voting Class A shares equal to the number of their vested PSUs. The weighted average fair value of $24.48 per PSU
issued during the current year was determined using the Black Scholes model with the following weighted average assumptions:
Share price
Expected life
Risk-free interest rate
Expected volatility
Dividend yield
$25.16
1.58 years
1.93%
18.45%
1.75%
At May 4, 2019, there were 338,275 (2018 – 471,693) PSUs outstanding. The compensation expense for the year ended May 4, 2019
related to PSUs was $3.0 (2018 – $4.3).
STOCK OPTION PLAN
During fiscal 2019, the Company granted 800,573 options under the stock option plan for employees of the Company whereby
options are granted to purchase Non-Voting Class A shares. The weighted average fair value of $5.78 per option issued during the
year was determined using the Black Scholes model with the following weighted average assumptions:
Share price
Expected life
Risk-free interest rate
Expected volatility
Dividend yield
$25.97
7.97 years
1.95%
22.15%
1.70%
The compensation expense for the year ended May 4, 2019 related to the issuance of options was $3.7 (2018 – $2.6).
The outstanding options at May 4, 2019 were granted at prices between $15.60 and $30.87 and expire between June 2021 and
June 2026 with a weighted average remaining contractual life of 4.88 years. Stock option transactions during fiscal 2019 and 2018
were as follows:
Balance, beginning of year
Granted
Exercised
Expired
Forfeited
Balance, end of year
Stock options exercisable, end of year
2019
2018
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
22.81
25.97
22.30
27.49
20.63
23.31
Number of
Options
4,686,155 $
800,573
(746,346)
(250,116)
(196,978)
4,293,288 $
2,201,160
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
24.27
19.43
22.26
25.92
23.45
22.81
Number of
Options
4,949,863 $
1,338,980
(122,805)
(749,971)
(729,912)
4,686,155 $
2,301,032
82
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019
The following table summarizes information related to stock options outstanding at May 4, 2019:
Year Granted
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
Total
Options Outstanding
Options Exercisable
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life(1)
2.16 $
3.17
4.17
5.18
6.18
7.18
4.88 $
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
Number
Exercisable
at May 4,
2019
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
26.29
22.49
29.97
20.15
19.52
25.98
23.31
1,045,380 $
254,975
204,304
427,161
269,340
–
2,201,160 $
26.29
22.49
29.97
20.14
19.52
–
24.17
Number of
Outstanding
Options
1,045,380
254,975
272,405
859,023
1,077,358
784,147
4,293,288
(1) Weighted average remaining contractual life is expressed in years.
DEFERRED STOCK UNIT PLANS
Deferred stock units (“DSUs”) issued to employees, under the Executive DSU Plan, vest dependent on time and the achievement of
specific performance measures. At May 4, 2019, there were 1,063,299 (2018 – 803,777) DSUs outstanding related to this plan and the
total carrying amount of the liability was $20.8 (2018 – $8.2). The compensation expense for the year ended May 4, 2019 related to
DSUs was $14.2 (2018 – $7.4).
Members of the Board of Directors may elect to receive all or any portion of their fees in DSUs in lieu of cash. The number of DSUs
received is determined by the market value of the Company’s Non-Voting Class A shares on each directors’ or employees’ fee
payment date. At May 4, 2019, there were 247,605 (2018 – 198,240) DSUs outstanding and the total carrying amount of the liability
was $7.4 (2018 – $4.9). During the year ended May 4, 2019, the compensation expense recorded was $2.7 (2018 – $2.1).
Under both DSU plans, vested DSUs cannot be redeemed until the employee has left the Company or the holder is no longer a director
of the Company. The redemption value of a DSU equals the market value of an Empire Non-Voting Class A share at the time of
redemption. On an ongoing basis, the Company values the DSU obligation at the current market value of a corresponding number
of Non-Voting Class A shares and records any increase or decrease in the DSU obligation as selling and administrative expenses.
28. Related Party Transactions
The Company enters into related party transactions with Crombie REIT and key management personnel, including ongoing leases
and property management agreements. The Company holds a 41.5% ownership interest in Crombie REIT and accounts for its
investment using the equity method.
The Company leased certain real property from Crombie REIT during the year at amounts which in management’s opinion approximate
fair market value that would be incurred if leased from a third party. Management has determined these amounts to be fair value
based on the significant number of leases negotiated with third parties in each market it operates. The aggregate net payments
under these leases, which are measured at exchange amounts, totaled approximately $206.2 (2018 – $199.7).
Crombie REIT provides administrative and management services to the Company on a fee for service basis pursuant to a Management
Agreement effective January 1, 2016. The Management Agreement replaces the previous arrangement where charges incurred were
on a cost recovery basis.
On July 4, 2017, Crombie REIT redeemed its 5.00% Series D Convertible Unsecured Subordinate Debentures. In exchange for its
investment in the Series D convertible debentures, the Company received $24.3 in principal and interest payments. There was no
gain or loss recognized on the redemption. During the year ended May 4, 2019, the Company received interest from Crombie REIT
of $ nil (2018 – $0.2).
On April 11, 2019, Crombie REIT announced an agreement to sell an 89% interest in a 26 property portfolio to a third party
purchaser. Sobeys and Crombie REIT entered into lease amending agreements on properties disposed where Sobeys was a
lessee to secure longer contractual terms, as well as additional option terms on the sites. As consideration for these amendments,
83
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
Crombie REIT agreed to pay an aggregate amount to Sobeys over a period of three years. The lease amending agreements
became effective on April 25, 2019, the closing date of the property disposal. Sobeys has accrued a total of $9.5 in current and
long-term receivables related to these amounts.
On September 28, 2018, Sobeys, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, sold one property to Crombie REIT for cash consideration of
$3.7. This resulted in a pre-tax gain of $1.5, which has been recognized in other income on the consolidated statements of earnings.
On June 29, 2018, Sobeys, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, sold and leased back one property to Crombie REIT for cash
consideration of $12.5. This resulted in a pre-tax gain of $5.6, which has been recognized in other income on the consolidated
statements of earnings.
On April 6, 2018, Sobeys and its wholly-owned subsidiaries entered into an agreement with Crombie REIT to sell a portfolio of
11 properties, nine of which were leased back. Total cash proceeds to the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries from this
transaction were $88.1, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $13.2 which has been recognized on the consolidated statements of earnings.
On September 29, 2017, Sobeys sold one property to Crombie REIT for cash consideration of $6.4. This resulted in a pre-tax gain
of $0.2, which has been recognized in other income on the consolidated statements of earnings.
KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL COMPENSATION
Key management personnel include the Board of Directors and members of the Company’s executive team that have authority and
responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of the Company.
Key management personnel compensation is comprised of:
Salaries, bonus and other short-term employment benefits
Post-employment benefits
Termination benefits
Share-based payments
Total
INDEMNITIES
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
13.4 $
3.4
2.8
8.6
$
28.2 $
13.3
1.5
0.8
9.8
25.4
The Company has agreed to indemnify its directors, officers and particular employees in accordance with the Company’s policies.
The Company maintains insurance policies that may provide coverage against certain claims.
84
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSAnnual Report 2019
29. Capital Management
The Company’s objectives when managing capital are: (i) to ensure sufficient liquidity to support its financial obligations and
execute its operating and strategic plans; (ii) to minimize the cost of capital while taking into consideration current and future
industry, market and economic risks and conditions; (iii) to maintain an optimal capital structure that provides necessary financial
flexibility while also ensuring compliance with any financial covenants; and (iv) to maintain an investment grade credit rating with
each rating agency that assesses the credit worthiness of the Company. There have been no changes to the Company’s objectives
during the year ended May 4, 2019.
The Company monitors and makes adjustments to its capital structure, when necessary, in light of changes in economic conditions,
the objectives of its shareholders, the cash requirements of the business and the condition of capital markets.
The Company considers its total capitalization to include all interest-bearing debt, including bank loans, long-term debt (including the
current portion thereof) and shareholders’ equity, net of cash and cash equivalents. The calculation is set out in the following table:
Long-term debt due within one year
Long-term debt
Funded debt
Less cash and cash equivalents
Net funded debt
Shareholders’ equity, net of non-controlling interest
Capital under management
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
$
36.5 $
1,984.4
2,020.9
(553.3)
1,467.6
4,003.3
$
5,470.9 $
527.4
1,139.5
1,666.9
(627.9)
1,039.0
3,702.8
4,741.8
Although the Company does not include operating leases in its definition of capital, the Company does give consideration to its
obligations under operating leases when assessing its total capitalization.
The primary investments undertaken by the Company include additions to the selling square footage and renovations of its store
network via the construction, expansion, and improvements to existing stores. These additions and modifications to the store
network include related leasehold improvements and the purchase of land bank sites for future store construction. The Company
makes capital investments in information technology and its distribution capabilities to support an expanding store network. In
addition, the Company makes capital expenditures in support of its investments and other operations. The Company largely relies
on its cash flow from operations to fund its capital investment program and dividend distributions to its shareholders. The cash flow
is supplemented, when necessary, through the incurrence of additional debt or the issuance of additional capital stock.
Management monitors certain key ratios to effectively manage the capital structure and debt obligations of the Company:
Funded debt to total capital(1)
Funded debt to EBITDA(2)
EBITDA to interest expense(2)
May 4, 2019
May 5, 2018
33.5%
1.9 x
12.4 x
31.0%
2.1 x
8.1 x
(1) Total capital is funded debt plus shareholders’ equity, net of non-controlling interest.
(2) EBITDA and interest expense are comprised of EBITDA and interest expense for each of the 52 week periods then ended. EBITDA consists of operating
income plus depreciation and amortization of intangibles, while interest expense consists of interest expense on financial liabilities measured at amortized
cost plus losses on cash flow hedges reclassified from other comprehensive income or loss.
Under the terms of existing debt agreements, three financial covenants are monitored on a quarterly basis by management to
ensure compliance with the agreements. The covenants are: (i) adjusted total debt/EBITDA – calculated as net funded debt plus
letters of credit, guarantees and commitments divided by EBITDA (as defined by the credit agreements and for the previous
52 weeks); (ii) lease adjusted debt/EBITDAR – calculated as adjusted total debt plus eight times rent divided by EBITDAR (as
defined by the credit agreements and for the previous 52 weeks); and (iii) debt service coverage ratio – calculated as EBITDA
divided by interest expense plus repayments of long-term debt (as defined by the credit agreements and for the previous
52 weeks). The Company was in compliance with these covenants during the year.
85
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Eleven-Year Financial Review
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION – UNAUDITED
Year Ended(1)
Financial Results ($ in millions)
Sales
Operating income (loss)
Finance costs, net
Income tax expense (recovery)
Non-controlling interest
Net earnings (loss)(2)
Adjusted net earnings(2)
Financial Position ($ in millions)
Total assets
Long-term debt (excluding current portion)
Shareholders’ equity(2)
Per Share Data on a Fully Diluted Basis ($ per share)
Net earnings (loss)(2)
Adjusted net earnings(2)
Dividends
Non-Voting Class A shares
Class B common shares
Book value
Share Price, Non-Voting Class A Shares ($ per share)
High
Low
Close
2019
2018
2017
2016
$
$
25,142.0
652.3
91.6
144.3
29.1
387.3
410.0
9,602.4
1,984.4
4,003.3
$
24,214.6
346.5
110.5
56.2
20.3
159.5
344.3
8,662.0
1,139.5
3,702.8
$
23,806.2
333.0
118.0
42.5
14.0
158.5
191.3
8,695.5
1,736.8
3,644.2
1.42
1.50
0.440
0.440
14.72
31.11
22.69
29.94
272.6
0.59
1.27
0.420
0.420
13.62
26.15
18.74
25.01
272.1
0.58
0.70
0.410
0.410
13.40
22.56
15.00
21.50
272.0
24,618.8
(2,418.5)
137.4
(441.3)
16.4
(2,131.0)
410.2
9,138.5
2,017.0
3,623.9
(7.78)
1.50
0.400
0.400
13.23
30.79
20.23
21.09
274.0
Diluted weighted average number of shares outstanding (in millions)
(1) Fiscal years end the first Saturday in May, consistent with the fiscal year-end of Sobeys Inc. Financial data for fiscal 2009 to 2010, with the exception of the
balances noted for financial position for fiscal 2010, were prepared using CGAAP and have not been restated to IFRS. Fiscal 2011 and 2016 are 53-week years.
(2) Net of non-controlling interest.
86
Annual Report 2019
Eleven-Year Financial Review
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION – UNAUDITED
Year Ended(1)
Financial Results ($ in millions)
Sales
Operating income (loss)
Finance costs, net
Income tax expense (recovery)
Non-controlling interest
Net earnings (loss)(2)
Adjusted net earnings(2)
Financial Position ($ in millions)
Total assets
Net earnings (loss)(2)
Adjusted net earnings(2)
Dividends
Non-Voting Class A shares
Class B common shares
Book value
High
Low
Close
Share Price, Non-Voting Class A Shares ($ per share)
652.3
91.6
144.3
29.1
387.3
410.0
1.42
1.50
0.440
0.440
14.72
31.11
22.69
29.94
272.6
346.5
110.5
56.2
20.3
159.5
344.3
0.59
1.27
0.420
0.420
13.62
26.15
18.74
25.01
272.1
333.0
118.0
42.5
14.0
158.5
191.3
0.58
0.70
0.410
0.410
13.40
22.56
15.00
21.50
272.0
24,618.8
(2,418.5)
137.4
(441.3)
16.4
(2,131.0)
410.2
9,138.5
2,017.0
3,623.9
(7.78)
1.50
0.400
0.400
13.23
30.79
20.23
21.09
274.0
Long-term debt (excluding current portion)
Shareholders’ equity(2)
Per Share Data on a Fully Diluted Basis ($ per share)
9,602.4
1,984.4
4,003.3
8,662.0
1,139.5
3,702.8
8,695.5
1,736.8
3,644.2
Diluted weighted average number of shares outstanding (in millions)
(1) Fiscal years end the first Saturday in May, consistent with the fiscal year-end of Sobeys Inc. Financial data for fiscal 2009 to 2010, with the exception of the
balances noted for financial position for fiscal 2010, were prepared using CGAAP and have not been restated to IFRS. Fiscal 2011 and 2016 are 53-week years.
(2) Net of non-controlling interest.
2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2009
$
25,142.0
$
24,214.6
$
23,806.2
$
$
$
23,928.8
742.4
155.1
150.4
17.9
419.0
511.0
11,497.2
2,230.2
5,986.7
$
20,957.8
326.7
131.4
36.3
8.0
235.4
390.6
12,236.6
3,282.1
5,700.5
$
17,343.9
573.2
55.4
136.4
9.1
379.5
390.7
7,140.4
915.9
3,724.8
$
16,249.1
534.3
59.9
122.3
12.7
339.4
322.7
6,913.1
889.1
3,396.3
$
15,956.8
525.7
75.4
122.0
9.0
400.6
303.2
6,518.6
1,090.3
3,162.1
$
15,516.2
479.7
72.5
99.1
5.6
301.9
284.5
6,248.3
821.6
2,952.4
1.51
1.84
0.360
0.360
21.61
31.60
21.67
29.15
277.2
0.98
1.62
0.347
0.347
20.59
27.75
21.68
22.88
240.6
1.86
1.91
0.320
0.320
18.27
22.88
17.85
22.86
204.2
1.66
1.58
0.300
0.300
16.66
21.00
17.57
19.21
204.2
1.96
1.48
0.267
0.267
15.49
19.71
17.02
18.05
204.6
1.47
1.39
0.247
0.247
14.36
17.98
13.23
17.66
205.4
15,015.1
466.2
80.6
115.4
8.3
264.7
261.7
5,891.1
1,124.0
2,678.8
1.34
1.33
0.233
0.233
13.02
18.26
12.21
16.33
197.4
87
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSEmpire Company Limited
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Shareholder and Investor Information
Empire Company Limited
115 King Street
Stellarton, Nova Scotia
B0K 1S0
Telephone: (902) 752-8371
Fax: (902) 755-6477
www.empireco.ca
Dividend Record and Payment Dates for Fiscal 2020
Record Date
July 15, 2019
October 15, 2019*
January 15, 2020*
April 15, 2020*
Payment Date
July 31, 2019
October 31, 2019*
January 31, 2020*
April 30, 2020*
Investor Relations and Inquiries
Shareholders, analysts and investors should direct their financial
inquiries or requests to:
Outstanding Shares
As at June 25, 2019
*Subject to approval by the Board of Directors.
Non-Voting Class A shares
Class B common shares, voting
173,663,969
98,138,079
Stock Exchange Listing
The Toronto Stock Exchange
Stock Symbol
Non-Voting Class A shares – EMP.A
Solicitors
Stewart McKelvey
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Auditor
PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP
Halifax, Nova Scotia
E-mail: investor.relations@empireco.ca
Communication regarding investor records including changes
of address or ownership, lost certificates or tax forms, should
be directed to the Company’s transfer agent and registrar,
AST Trust Company (Canada).
Affiliated Company Web Address
www.sobeyscorporate.com
Transfer Agent
AST Trust Company (Canada)
Investor Correspondence
P.O. Box 700, Station B
Montreal, Québec
H3B 3K3
Telephone: 1-800-387-0825
E-mail: inquiries@astfinancial.com
Multiple Mailings
If you have more than one account, you may receive a separate
mailing for each. If this occurs, please contact AST Trust
Company (Canada) at 1-800-387-0825 to eliminate the
multiple mailings.
Shareholders’ Annual General Meeting
September 12, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. (ADT)
Cineplex Cinemas
612 East River Road
New Glasgow, Nova Scotia
88
Annual Report 2019
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