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Smith & Nephew

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FY2012 Annual Report · Smith & Nephew
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Annual Report 2012

Smith & Nephew plc
15 Adam Street
London WC2N 6LA
United Kingdom

T +44 (0) 20 7401 7646
F +44 (0) 20 7960 2356

www.smith-nephew.com

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012

Contents

1

Overview

Our business today 

Financial highlights 

Chairman’s statement 

2

4

5

2

3

4

5

6

7

Strategy and performance

Creating sustainable value 
Chief Executive Officer’s review of strategy 
How the group measures its strategic performance 

7
8
16

Marketplace and  
Business segment review

Our marketplace 
Business segment review 
Advanced Surgical Devices 
Advanced Wound Management 

Sustainability  
review

Sustainability strategy  
Healthy economic performance 
Healthy social performance 
Healthy environmental performance 
Sustainability progress 

Financial review  
and principal risks

Financial review  
Outlook and trend information 
Principal risks and risk management 

Corporate 
Governance

Accounts and  
other information

Governance introduction 
Our Board of Directors 
Our Executive Officers 
Corporate governance statement 
Directors’ remuneration report 

Directors’ responsibilities for the accounts 
Independent auditor’s UK report 
Independent auditor’s US report 
Group accounts 
Notes to the Group accounts 
Independent auditor’s report for the Company 
Company accounts 
Notes to the Company accounts 
Group information 
Investor information 

19
22
22
28

35
36
37
40
41

43
53
54

57
58
60
62
74

89
90
91
92
96
139
140
141
144
151

About Smith & Nephew
The Smith & Nephew Group (the ‘Group’) is a global medical devices business 
operating in the markets for advanced surgical devices comprising orthopaedic 
reconstruction, trauma and sports medicine and advanced wound 
management, with revenue of approximately $4 billion in 2012. Smith & 
Nephew plc (the ‘Company’) is the parent company of the Group. It is an English 
public limited company with its shares listed on the premium list of the UK 
Listing Authority and traded on the London Stock Exchange. Shares are also 
traded on the New York Stock Exchange in the form of American Depositary 
Shares (‘ADSs’).

This is the Annual Report of Smith & Nephew plc for the year ended 31 December 
2012. It comprises, in a single document, the Annual Report and Accounts of 
the company in accordance with UK requirements and the Annual Report on 
Form 20-F in accordance with the regulations of the United States Securities 
and Exchange Commission (‘SEC’).

Smith & Nephew operates on a worldwide basis and has distribution channels 
in over 90 countries. In the more established countries by revenue, the Group’s 
business operations are organised by divisions. In the majority of the remaining 
markets, operations are managed by country managers who are responsible 
for sales and distribution of the Group’s entire product range. These comprise 
the Emerging Markets and International Markets.

Smith & Nephew’s corporate website, www.smith-nephew.com, gives additional 
information on the Group, including an electronic version of this Annual Report. 
Information made available on this website, or other websites mentioned in this 
Annual Report, are not, and should not be regarded as being, part of or 
incorporated into this Annual Report.

For the convenience of the reader, a Glossary of technical and financial terms 
used in this document is included on pages 162 to 163. The product names 
referred to in this document are identified by use of capital letters and are 
trademarks owned by or licensed to members of the Group.

Special note regarding forward-looking statements
The Group’s reports filed with, or furnished to, the US Securities and Exchange 
Commission (‘SEC’), including this document and written information released, 
or oral statements made, to the public in the future by or on behalf of the Group, 
contain ‘forward-looking statements’ within the meaning of the US Private 
Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, that may or may not prove accurate. In 
particular, statements regarding expected revenue growth and trading profit 
margins discussed under ‘Outlook and Trend Information’, market trends and 
our product pipeline are forward-looking statements. Phrases such as ‘aim’, 
‘plan’, ‘intend’, ‘anticipate’, ‘well-placed’, ‘believe’, ‘estimate’, ‘expect’, ‘target’, 
‘consider’ and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward-
looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown 
risks, uncertainties and other important factors that could cause actual results, 
to differ materially from what is expressed or implied by the statements.

For Smith & Nephew, these factors include: economic and financial conditions 
in the markets we serve, especially those affecting health care providers, 
payers and customers; price levels for established and innovative medical 
devices; developments in medical technology; regulatory approvals, 
reimbursement decisions or other government actions; product defects or 
recalls; litigation relating to patent or other claims; legal compliance risks and 
related investigative, remedial or enforcement actions; strategic actions, 
including acquisitions and dispositions and our success in integrating acquired 
businesses; and numerous other matters that affect us or our markets, 
including those of a political, economic, business or competitive nature. 
Specific risks faced by the Group are described under ‘Risk factors’ on pages 
146 to 148 of this Annual Report. Any forward-looking statement is based on 
information available to Smith & Nephew as of the date of the statement. All 
written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to Smith & Nephew are 
qualified by this caution. Smith & Nephew does not undertake any obligation to 
update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect any change in 
circumstances or in Smith & Nephew’s expectations.

Presentation
The Group’s fiscal year end is 31 December. References in this Annual Report to 
a particular year are to the fiscal year unless otherwise indicated. Except as the 
context otherwise requires, ‘Ordinary Share’ or ‘share’ refer to the Ordinary 
Shares of Smith & Nephew plc of 20 US cents each.

The Group Accounts of Smith & Nephew in this Annual Report are presented in 
US Dollars. Solely for the convenience of the reader, certain parts of this Annual 
Report contain translations of amounts in US Dollars into Sterling at specified 
rates. These translations should not be construed as representations that the 
US Dollar amounts actually represent such Sterling amounts or could be 
converted into Sterling at the rate indicated.

Unless stated otherwise, the translation of US Dollars and cents to Sterling and 
pence in this Annual Report has been made at the Bank of England exchange 
rate on the date indicated. On 19 February 2013, the Bank of England rate was 
US$1.5443 per £1.

The results of the Group, as reported in US Dollars, are affected by movements 
in exchange rates between US Dollars and other currencies. The Group applied 
the average exchange rates prevailing during the year to translate the results of 
companies with functional currency other than US Dollars. The currencies 
which most influenced these translations in the years covered by this report 
were Sterling, Swiss Franc and the Euro.

The Accounts of the Group in this Annual Report are presented in millions (‘m’) 
unless otherwise indicated.

Division data
Division data and division share estimates throughout this report are derived 
from a variety of sources including publicly available competitors’ information, 
internal management information and independent market research reports.

Documents on display
It is possible to read and copy documents referred to in this Annual Report at 
the Registered Office of the Company. Documents referred to in this Annual 
Report that have been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in 
the US may be read and copied at the SEC’s public reference room located at 
450 Fifth Street, NW, Washington DC 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-
0330 for further information on the public reference rooms and their copy 
charges. The SEC also maintains a web site at www.sec.gov that contains 
reports and other information regarding registrants that file electronically with 
the SEC. This Annual Report and some of the other information submitted by 
the Group to the SEC may be accessed through the SEC website.

The inks used are renewable, biodegradable and emit fewer Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) than mineral-oil inks. 
They are based on high levels of renewable raw materials such as vegetable oils and naturally occuring resin.
The inks do not contin any toxic heavy metals and therefore, do not pose a problem if placed in landfill.
Designed by Radley Yeldar.
Printed by RR Donnelley 472599.

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Reshaping Smith & Nephew

1

 “Smith & Nephew delivered good underlying 
revenue and profit growth and a strong 
trading profit margin in 2012. 

 “There is no doubt that we are benefiting 
from implementing our Strategic Priorities. 
Our choices to invest in higher growth 
products, franchises and geographies 
are enabling us to drive greater value 
for our Company and stakeholders.” 

Olivier Bohuon 
Chief Executive Officer

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Our business today

Smith & Nephew is a global medical 
technology business dedicated to 
helping improve people’s lives.

Group

Revenue2

$4.1bn  

Revenue by geography $m

1,651
A  United States 
B  Other Established markets  2,003
C  Emerging and International 
  markets 

483

Average number of employees3

+2%

10,477 

C

B

Employees by geography3

A  United States 
B  Continental Europe
C  UK 
D  China 
E  Other 

A

4,000
2,098
1,706
801
1,872

E

D

C

A

B

Key

Established markets
Emerging markets
International markets

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
3

A

We have leadership positions in Orthopaedic 
Reconstruction, Advanced Wound Management, 
Sports Medicine and Trauma. We group these product 
franchise areas into two global divisions; Advanced 
Surgical Devices and Advanced Wound Management.

Revenue by business division $bn

A  Advanced Surgical Devices 
B  Advanced Wound 
  Management 

3.1

1.0

B

Advanced Surgical 
Devices

Advanced Wound 
Management

Smith & Nephew’s Advanced Surgical Devices 
global business has leadership positions in 
Orthopaedic Reconstruction, Sports Medicine 
and Trauma. It is headquartered in the USA in 
Andover, MA and Memphis, TN. 

Smith & Nephew’s Advanced Wound Management 
global business is a leader in advanced wound care 
dressings, negative pressure wound therapy and 
other advanced wound management technologies. 
It is headquartered in Hull, UK.

Revenue2

$3.1bn  

2011: $3.3bn

Revenue by franchise $m

874
A  Knee Implants 
666
B  Hip Implants 
C  Sports Medicine Joint Repair  521
D  Arthroscopic Enabling 

Technologies 

E  Trauma 
F  Other ASD 

409
462
176

D

Revenue by geography $m

A  United States 
B  Other Established 
  markets 
C  Emerging and 

1,449

1,298

Revenue2

+2%

$1.0bn  

2011: $1.0bn

F

E

A

Revenue by franchise $m

A  Infection management 
B  Exudate management 
C  Other AWM 

127
269
633

+4%

A

B

C

C

A

B

C

C

Revenue by geography $m

A  United States 
B  Other Established 
  markets 
C  Emerging and 

202

705

122

International markets 

361

A

International markets 

B

B

Operating profit2

Trading profit1,2

Operating profit2

Trading profit1,2

$0.6bn  
2011: $0.6bn

Employees

7,194  

2011: 7,611

+7%

$0.7bn 
2011: $0.7bn

+8%

$0.2bn  
2011: $0.2bn

nil%

$0.2bn  
2011: $0.2bn

-1%

-5%

Employees3

3,283  
2011: 3,132

+5%

1 Explanations of these non-GAAP financial measures are provided on pages 44 to 46.
2 Underlying growth percentage after adjusting for the effect of currency translation and disposals.
3 Healthpoint was acquired in December 2012. The average employee number does not include the 460 Healthpoint employees who joined us through this acquisition.

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4

Financial highlights

Revenue2

$4.137bn
2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

Trading profit1,2

+2%

$965m
2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

3.801

3.772

3.962

4.270

4.137

+6%

776

857

969

961

965

Adjusted earnings per share1 (EPSA)

Trading profit margin1

75.7 cents 
2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

55.6

65.6

73.6

74.5

75.7

+2%

23.3%

+80bps

Trading profit to cash conversion

104%

Earnings per share (EPS)

81.3 cents
2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

42.6

53.4

Operating profit

2

+25%

$846m 
2008

69.3

65.3

81.3

2009

2010

2011

2012

+5%

630

723

920

862

846

Dividend per share

26.10 cents
2008

13.08

2009

2010

2011

2012

14.39

15.82

17.40

26.10

Research & development expenditure

Operating profit margin

+50%

20.4%

+20bps

Operating profit as a percentage 
of cash generated from operations

71% 

$171m 
2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

+2%

152

155

151

167

171

1 Explanations of these non-GAAP financial measures are provided on pages 44 to 46.
2 Underlying growth percentage after adjusting for the effect of currency translation and disposals.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Chairman’s statement

5

“ Our financial strength – and confidence in continued  
strategic progress – enabled the Board to review the  
dividend policy during the year.”

Board changes
We were very pleased that Julie Brown joined us as Chief 
Financial Officer in February 2013. She brings top-level 
financial expertise, commercial experience and a deep 
knowledge of the healthcare sector. Julie replaces Adrian 
Hennah who left with our very best wishes and thanks for 
his significant contribution to Smith & Nephew. 

We have also welcomed two new Non-Executive Directors 
during 2012. Ajay Piramal is one of India’s most impressive 
businessmen and Baroness Bottomley brings a wealth of 
experience from her successful career across both private 
and public sectors. We said farewell to Rolf Stomberg and 
Geneviève Berger, who we also thank for their valuable 
input.

In April, we shall welcome Michael Friedman to our 
Board who is renowned for his US healthcare expertise, 
in particular gained leading the prestigious City of Hope 
cancer institution in California. 

Thank you
My Board colleagues and I visited a number of our global 
sites during the year. We welcome these opportunities to 
meet our employees, and would like to thank everyone at 
Smith & Nephew for their continued dedication to serving 
our customers.

We are also fortunate to meet and hear from shareholders 
regularly, both institutional and private. Your support and 
feedback are both appreciated, and continue to inform 
our thinking. 

Smith & Nephew is evolving. We are already seeing the 
material benefits of our choices and actions. There is 
much more to come and we look forward to continuing 
to build ever more value for you into the future.

Sir John Buchanan
Chairman

Dear shareholder,
Smith & Nephew made good progress in 2012, both 
financially and strategically, as we delivered on our 
commitments to reshape the Company. 

Our underlying revenues were up 2% to $4,137m, with 
reported revenue reflecting the successful transaction 
to create Bioventus. Trading profit was up 6% underlying 
at $965m, giving an 80 basis points increase in trading 
profit margin, which was up at 23.3%. Free cash flow, at 
$637m, was again healthy, demonstrating the vitality of 
our business.

This performance shows the effects of the major strategic 
programme announced last year to make Smith & 
Nephew fit and effective for the future. Throughout the 
year we made great progress driving efficiencies and 
liberating resources. This has allowed us to invest to 
realise the opportunities we see in our higher growth 
markets and sectors. 

We have achieved all this and maintained our commitment 
to health and safety, ethics and the environment. 

Enhanced returns for shareholders
Our financial strength – and confidence in continued 
strategic progress – enabled the Board to review the 
dividend policy during the year. 

As a result, we increased the level of the Interim Dividend 
payment by 50% to 9.9¢ per share. The Board is pleased 
to propose a Final Dividend for the year of 16.2¢ per share, 
also up 50% on 2011. We intend to pursue a progressive 
dividend policy going forward.

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2

Strategy and performance 

This section outlines the Group’s 
growth strategy, and what has been 
done to deliver against this strategy.

Creating sustainable value 

Chief Executive Officer’s review of strategy 

How the Group measures its strategic performance 

7

8

16

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 20127

Creating sustainable value

At Smith & Nephew we believe that being a sustainable company, in every sense of 
the word, truly sets us apart. Positively contributing to the needs of our stakeholders at the 
economic, social and environmental level is important. This is seen in our values, in how 
we support our customers, and the way our products improve the quality of life of patients.

Smith & Nephew’s quality products are selected 
because it has built trusted relationships.

Smith & Nephew continues 
to create value through our 
core values:

The decision to use our 
products can be influenced 
by many parties, including:

The value of our products 
is recognised by many, 
including:

Perform

Innovate

Trust

Healthcare professionals

Surgeons

Hospitals

Government spending

Nurses

Patients

Procurement

Caregivers

Distributors

Healthcare systems

Health departments

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Chief Executive Officer’s review of strategy

Our strategy

Smith & Nephew’s strategic priorities are about making 
choices for the long term benefit of the Group, delivering 
higher returns to shareholders than its peer group.

Established markets

1

In Established markets (US, Europe, Japan, Australia, New Zealand 
and Canada), Smith & Nephew sees opportunities to build upon 
existing strong positions, to win market share through greater 
innovation and drive efficiencies to liberate resources. Through 
these actions the Group seeks to meet the challenges of subdued 
markets and maximise both revenue growth and profit margins.

2 Emerging and 

International markets

3 Innovate for value

4 Simplify and improve 
our operating model

5 Supplement organic 
growth through 
acquisitions

Smith & Nephew believes it can secure market leadership 
in the Emerging markets, building upon its initial success in 
China and expanding to create sustainable businesses in 
India, Brazil and Russia. In particular, the Group sees significant 
opportunities to build value through augmenting its existing portfolio 
with new products specifically designed for, and manufactured in, 
these markets.

The Group’s future success depends upon continuing to offer 
new technologies and innovative business models to customers 
around the world. Smith & Nephew is accelerating its rate of 
innovation by increasing the research & development budget 
and identifying and investing in the projects that will deliver 
maximum value.

Smith & Nephew will work to ensure the business structure and 
processes support our innovation agenda, and the Group seeks  
to maximise efficiency in everything it does. There are opportunities 
to streamline the Group’s operations and manufacturing processes 
and to remove duplication. Smith & Nephew is building strong 
global functions – human capital, regulatory, quality, compliance, 
sustainability, finance and legal affairs – to support its 
management teams in their quest to serve the Group’s markets 
and customers better.

The Group aims to augment its organic growth through acquisitions. 
Smith & Nephew will continue with its successful strategy of 
acquiring complementary technologies, seek to support our 
Emerging markets ambitions by acquiring local manufacturing  
and distribution businesses and remain alert to larger opportunities 
to support expansion in attractive sectors, such as advanced 
woundcare, extremities or minimally invasive surgery.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 20129

“ We are investing in higher-growth products, franchises and geographies 
and adapting our commercial models and cost structure.” 

Dear Shareholder,
In August 2011, we announced an ambitious set of 
Strategic Priorities to make Smith & Nephew stronger, 
faster growing, better balanced and fit and effective for 
the future. Across the Group we are implementing this 
programme. We are investing in higher-growth products, 
franchises and geographies and adapting our commercial 
models and cost structure.

Emerging markets
In the Emerging markets we are delivering strong revenue 
growth, benefitting from our investments to strengthen the 
management team and sales force, and the successful 
registration of more of our existing products for sale. 

Our strategy is to build upon this platform by expanding 
our distribution capability and delivering portfolios for the 
mid-tier segments. We will develop these through our own 
R&D, and by acquisition, and we expect to bring our first 
products to market in 2013. 

We are also investing to ensure that all employees and 
third party representatives follow our Code of Conduct and 
local requirements. We have, what I believe to be, a world-
class compliance programme. Sharing this expertise is 
integral to building a sustainable business everywhere we 
operate. 

Investing for growth
In the Established markets we continue to successfully 
deliver a high rate of innovation. In 2012 we launched 
new hip, knee and trauma systems and more than 30 
advanced wound management products.  We increased 
our R&D budget, and expect to do so again in 2013. 

We are also putting more resources into our higher-growth 
franchises and geographies. In trauma and extremities 
our actions to refine the commercial model and build the 
sales force is delivering good results. In Japan we are 
strengthening our leadership position in advanced wound 
management following the launch of Negative Pressure 
Wound Therapy.  

These, and other investments like them, are possible 
because we are making Smith & Nephew more efficient. 
We generated annualised savings of around $100 million 
by the end of 2012 and are continuing to implement 
further improvements.  

Healthpoint Biotherapeutics
The acquisition of Healthpoint Biotherapeutics 
expands our platform by giving us a strong position in 
bioactives, the fastest growing area of advanced wound 
management. This perfectly complements our exudate 
and infection management and negative pressure 
expertise. The integration is proceeding to plan. 

Corporate social responsibility
Whilst working to transform Smith & Nephew, we have 
not lost sight of the importance of our social, ethical and 
environmental obligations. Our commitment to customers, 
patients, employees, shareholders and communities 
remains strong. In 2012 we again earned the distinction of 
being featured in both the FTSE4Good Index and the Dow 
Jones Sustainability Index. 

Delivering value 
In 2013 we are continuing to build, delivering efficiency 
improvements and accelerating investment – in our 
higher-growth portfolios, in geographic expansion, in 
more R&D and in further acquisitions. I am pleased at the 
progress we have made, excited about the opportunities 
that we see, and confident we will continue to deliver 
greater value for our company and stakeholders.

Olivier Bohuon
Chief Executive Officer

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Chief Executive Officer’s review of strategy 
continued

1
Established  
markets

Focused on success
Within the Established markets we have dedicated 
management teams in Advanced Surgical Devices and 
Advanced Wound Management who are focused on 
meeting the needs of our customers. 

The formation of the Advanced Surgical Devices division 
– created through the combination of our endoscopy 
and orthopaedics businesses – delivered benefits at a 
slightly faster rate than expected. This new structure has 
allowed us to better share the benefits of our experience 
and scale, whilst supporting the sales force in utilising 
their local market knowledge and relationships to secure 
and service customers in each and every market. 

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012Section 2 Strategy and performance

11
11

2
Emerging  
markets

New markets, new products
We have recruited experienced leadership to drive 
us into the Emerging markets and invested in new 
headquarters and infrastructure. 

Throughout 2012 we made progress registering and 
selling more of our existing products in our Emerging 
markets – with many new introductions across our 
franchises. 

We are also developing specific products for the 
middle tier in these countries, investing in determining 
both the right product categories, and the right 
business model, to serve these customers effectively.

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Chief Executive Officer’s review of strategy continued

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201213

3
innovate  
for value

centre of innovation
in April, we opened a new innovation centre in 
Memphis, which we are using to deliver best-in-class 
surgeon training programmes. 

This is a world-class, multi-disciplinary facility (joint 
reconstruction, sports medicine and trauma) that 
allows surgeons from different specialties and 
locations to share learning and innovation. its 140-seat 
auditorium, five conference rooms, two classrooms 
and 17 labs have already hosted multiple groups of 
surgeons from around the world keen to experience 
the latest products and surgical techniques. 

Designed for real life
in June, we launched AllEvyN life, a unique new 
foam dressing that extends our AllEvyN family of 
foam products. This product innovation addresses the 
findings of new Smith & Nephew research into the real 
life concerns of patients living with wounds. 

ALLEVYN Life offers multiple benefits for the patient and 
clinician. These innovative features include: a change 
indicator to avoid unnecessary dressing changes; a 
hyper-absorbent core to prevent leakage of exudate; 
and masking to prevent patient embarrassment caused 
by visible exudate through the dressing. This is all 
combined with unique shapes to ensure better 
dressing retention and our ‘Gentle Border’ silicone 
adhesive to minimise pain at dressing change.

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overviewstrategy and performanceSection 2 Strategy and performance 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
14

Chief Executive Officer’s review of strategy continued

4

Simplify and improve 
our operating model

Efficient manufacturing
We have been successful in reducing our cost of goods 
to combat the effects of continued price pressure. in 
manufacturing, we have refined our footprint, especially 
in china. During 2012, the Group closed the old linhe 
orthopaedic plant, moving it to our new facility in beijing 
ahead of schedule. We completed the extension to our 
Wound factory in Suzhou – on time and on budget – 
and have started equipping the plant.

The European process optimisation programme 
will rationalise and upgrade our commercial and 
IT platforms allowing us to drive efficiencies while 
better serving our customers.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201215

5
Growth through 
acquisitions

Augment organic growth  
through acquisitions 
In December 2012 Smith & Nephew completed 
the acquisition of Healthpoint Biotherapeutics, 
a leader in bioactive debridement, dermal repair and 
regeneration wound care treatments, for $782m 
in cash. 

This acquisition had compelling strategic and financial 
rationale for Smith & Nephew. 

it gives us a strong position in bioactives, the fastest 
growing area of advanced wound management. it 
brought a complementary range of bioactive 
debridement, dermal repair and regeneration products 
led by collagenase SANTyl Ointment (‘SANTYL’), an 
enzymatic debrider for dermal ulcers and burns. it 
added an established R&D capability in next-generation 
bioactive therapies for the treatment of chronic wounds 
and will double our uS AWM sales and strengthen our 
commercial scale and capabilities. 

The combination creates a wound business which is 
unique – having leadership positions across exudate 
and infection management, negative pressure and 
bioactive wound care.

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How the Group measures its strategic performance

Strategic priority

Measurement

1. Established markets

Revenue from Established markets2

$3.654bn +1%

2011

2012

3,816

3,654

2011 Clinical Therapies revenue of $237m
2012 Clinical Therapies revenue of $107m

2.  Emerging and 

International markets

Revenue from Emerging and 
International markets2

$483m  +11%

As a % of Group revenue

2011

2012

454

483

2011

2012

11%

12%

3. Innovate for value

R&D expense as a percentage  
of Group revenue

2011

2012

3.9%

4.1%

R&D expenditure

$171m  (2011: $167m)

4.  Simplify and improve 
our operating model

Trading profit2

Trading profit margin

$965m  +6%

23.3% +80bps

2011

2012

961

965

2011

2012

2011 Clinical Therapies trading profit of $48m
2012 Clinical Therapies trading profit of $16m

22.5

23.3

5.  Supplement organic 
growth through 
acquisitions

Acquisition spend4

$813m 

2011 106

2012

813

2 Underlying growth percentage after adjusting for the effect of currency translation and disposals.
4 Includes complementary technology spend.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201217

Performance

Global outlook

Why we measure

Smith & Nephew businesses in the Established markets grew 
by 2% in the US and 1% in the Other Established markets, 
where a weak macro environment in Europe partially offset 
strong results in Japan and Australia.
 – By franchise, our performance relative to estimated global 

market growth was below in hip reconstruction, at market in 
knee reconstruction, sports medicine and trauma and above 
in advanced wound management

 – For more detail on the market and competition (see pages 19 

to 33)

Established markets for Smith 
& Nephew are the US, Europe, 
Japan, Australia, New Zealand 
and Canada. In these markets we 
expect the challenging economic 
conditions to continue, requiring 
realigned business models and 
focused investment.

 – Track the relative strength  
of our market positions

Emerging/International markets grew at 11%, exceeding 
Established markets rates and contributing over 40% of 
annual revenue growth for the Group. These geographies 
now represent 12% of the Group’s overall revenue.
During 2012:
 – China, successful model, revenues above $120m
 – Significant infrastructure, operational and talent investment
 – Refined new R&D model to develop mid-tier product portfolio

Emerging/International markets 
represent those outside of the 
Established markets including 
Brazil, China, India and Russia. 
The healthcare environment in 
these markets is rapidly expanding 
and with the right investments 
offers significant opportunities for 
the Group.

 – Track underlying growth  

of Emerging markets to global 
growth

 – Monitor progress in key 

market segments

R&D investment now represents 4.1% of revenue, an increase 
in spending of 2%. We have maintained our momentum of 
introducing new products:
 – Over 30 new AWM products launched
 – In ASD, extensions to our established LEGION knee and 
PERI-LOC plate ranges, a new Hip revision system and 
further innovation in sports medicine

 – Over 230 existing products now available for Emerging/

Innovation offers the key to 
meeting the realities of healthcare 
and economic paradigm in both 
Established and Emerging markets. 
New products, technologies and 
surgical techniques hold the 
promise and potential of reducing 
the overall cost of healthcare.

 – Monitor the impact from 

innovation

 – Monitor the underlying 
investment in R&D

International markets

 – Innovation Centre opened in Memphis

Trading profit grew by 6%, aided by targeted efficiency and 
cost initiatives, which offset market pressures and enabled 
continued targeted organic investments. Trading profit margin 
was 23.3%, an 80bps improvement. Key initiatives included:
 – On track to deliver $150m efficiency savings by end of 2014
 – Reorganisation of ASD and realignment of AWM
 – Refining our manufacturing footprint (expansion of the 

Suzhou facility; move and closure of Linhe plant, both in 
China)

 – Reduction in cost of goods
 – Reduction in energy use and increased waste recycling

2012 has been an active year from a business development 
perspective. We have invested in talent and capability, which 
has delivered several exciting opportunities including:
 – Acquisition of Healthpoint Biotherapeutics
 – Acquisition of complementary technology businesses 
(LifeModeler Inc, Kalypto Medical Inc, Aderma range of 
Dermal Pads)

 – Bioventus venture formed and divestment of Biologics 

and Clinical Therapies business

By simplifying and improving our 
operating model we can liberate 
resources to invest in growth 
opportunities and meet the 
persistent price pressure. A simpler 
and more efficient organisation 
allows us to make faster and better 
decisions.

 – Track our underlying trading 
profit growth and trading 
profitability

 – Reduce the amount of energy 
and waste for the Group, our 
customers and the environment

Acquisition and partnerships 
are important elements which 
supplement the organic investment 
and provide increased opportunity 
for high growth and value.

 – Monitor value created 

for shareholders

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3

Marketplace and 
Business segment review

We look at our business in relation 
to issues in the wider marketplace 
in which we operate.

Our marketplace 

Business segment review 

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

19

22

22

28

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012Our marketplace

19

Smith & Nephew operates in a complex marketplace. 
Spending is heavily influenced by governments, who are 
seeking to balance the demands placed upon healthcare 
systems from long-term trends, such as ageing populations 
and obesity, with requirements to restrain budgets. Patients 
are becoming more discerning and demanding, and 
healthcare providers are increasingly making choices based 
on both clinical outcomes and cost. 

Smith & Nephew’s sales and marketing models reflect 
these factors. The Group invests in developing innovative 
products and services and in marketing these through 
the most appropriate direct or in-direct channels. Sales 
trends reveal a number of longer-term forces at work within 
our markets. The importance of government funding to 
our business remains and there is a need to meet ever 
more stringent regulation. Global manufacturing, supply 
and distribution operations seek to maximise their efficiency 
whilst supporting the sales and marketing process. 
Innovative new products are brought to market through 
highly focused research and development, and there is a 
robust policy of protecting intellectual property. The Group 
seeks to minimise the impact of currency on its business.

Sales and marketing
Smith & Nephew’s customers are the providers of medical and 
surgical services worldwide.

Competition exists among healthcare providers to gain patients on 
the basis of quality, service and price. Providers are under pressure 
to reduce the total cost of healthcare delivery. There has been some 
consolidation in the Group’s customer base, as well as amongst the 
Group’s competitors, and these trends are expected to continue in 
the long term. Smith & Nephew competes against both local and 
multinational corporations, including some with greater financial, 
marketing and other resources.

The Group’s business reflects a wide range of distribution channels, 
purchasing agents and buying entities in over 90 countries 
worldwide. The largest single customer worldwide is a purchasing 
group based in the UK that represented 6% of the Group’s worldwide 
revenue in 2012.

In certain parts of the world, including the UK, much of Continental 
Europe, Canada and Japan, the healthcare providers are largely 
government organisations funded by tax revenues. In the US, the 
Group’s major customers are public and private hospitals, which 
receive revenue from private health insurance and government 
reimbursement programmes. Medicare is the major source 
of reimbursement in the US, for knee and hip reconstruction 
procedures and for wound healing treatment regimes.

In the US, the Group’s products are marketed directly to healthcare 
providers, hospitals and other healthcare facilities with each 
business segment operating dedicated sales forces. The US 
sales forces consist of a mixture of independent contract workers 
and employees. Sales agents are contractually prohibited from 
selling products that compete with Smith & Nephew products. Our 
Advanced Surgical devices are principally shipped and invoiced 
to healthcare providers, hospitals and other healthcare facilities. 
Certain Advanced Wound Management products are shipped 
and invoiced to wholesale distributors and others are consigned 
to distributors that lease the devices to healthcare providers, 
hospitals and other healthcare facilities and end-users. In most 
other Established markets, each division typically manages 
employee sales forces directly, and also ships and invoices products 
both directly to healthcare providers, hospitals and other healthcare 
facilities and to wholesale distributors.

In Emerging markets and International markets the Group operates 
through direct selling and marketing operations, and through 
distributors. In these markets, Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine 
frequently share sales resources. The Advanced Wound Management 
sales force may be separate where it calls on different customers.

Sales trends
Smith & Nephew’s divisions participate in the global medical devices 
market and share a common focus on the repair of the human body. 
Smith & Nephew’s principal geographic markets are in our Established 
markets healthcare economies of the US, Europe, Japan, Canada, 
Australia and New Zealand. In addition, we are building our business 
in the Emerging markets (Brazil, Russia, India and China) and our 
International markets such as South Africa, Mexico and Turkey.

Global population

1950
2.5bn
Population by age % 

2000
6.0bn

0-19

20-64

65+

7

39

5

44

51

54

1950

2000

Global obesity %

2050
9.0bn

16

27

57

2050

0-5

5-10

10-15

15-20

20-25

25-30

30-35

35+

No data

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Our marketplace continued

Smith & Nephew’s markets are characterised by increased longevity, 
more active lifestyles, obesity, increased affluence and an increase 
in the average age of the population caused by the immediate post-
World War II ‘baby boomer’ generation approaching retirement.

Together these factors have created significant demand for more 
effective healthcare products which deliver improved outcomes 
through technology advances. Furthermore, pressure to resist 
increases in overall healthcare spending has led healthcare 
providers to demand products which minimise the length of hospital 
stays and use of surgeon and nursing resources.

Increasing patient awareness of available healthcare treatments 
through the internet and direct-to-customer advertising has led 
to some increased patient influence over product purchasing 
decisions.

For a description of the impact on each division refer to the ‘Business 
Segment reviews’ on pages 22 to 33.

Dependence on government  
and other funding
In most markets throughout the world, expenditure on medical 
devices is ultimately controlled to a large extent by governments. 
Funds may be made available or withdrawn from healthcare 
budgets depending on government policy. The Group is therefore 
largely dependent on future governments providing increased 
funds commensurate with the increased demand arising from 
demographic trends.

Pricing of the Group’s products is largely governed in most 
Established markets by governmental reimbursement authorities. 
Initiatives sponsored by government agencies, legislative bodies 
and the private sector to limit the growth of healthcare costs, 
including price regulation, excise taxes and competitive pricing, are 
ongoing in markets where the Group has operations. This control 
may be exercised by determining prices for an individual product 
or for an entire procedure. The Group is exposed to changes in 
reimbursement policy, tax policy and pricing which may have an 
adverse impact on sales and operating profit. In particular, changes 
to the healthcare legislation in the US are due to impose significant 
taxes on medical device manufacturers from 2013. There may be an 
increased risk of adverse changes to government funding policies 
arising from the deterioration in macro-economic conditions in some 
of the Group’s markets.

Regulatory standards and compliance in the 
healthcare industry
The international medical device industry is highly regulated. 
Regulatory requirements are a major factor in determining whether 
substances and materials can be developed into marketable 
products and the amount of time and expense that should be 
allotted to such development.

The trend is towards more stringent regulation and higher standards 
of technical appraisal. Such controls have become increasingly 
demanding to comply with and management believes that this trend 
will continue.

National regulatory authorities administer and enforce a complex 
series of laws and regulations that govern the design, development, 
approval, manufacture, labelling, marketing and sale of healthcare 
products. They also review data supporting the safety and efficacy 
of such products. Of particular importance is the requirement in 
many countries that products be authorised or registered prior 
to manufacture, marketing or sale and that such authorisation or 
registration be subsequently maintained. The major regulatory 
agencies for Smith & Nephew’s products include the Food and 
Drug Administration (‘FDA’) in the US, the Medicines and Healthcare 
products Regulatory Agency in the UK, the Ministry of Health, Labour 
and Welfare in Japan and the State Food and Drug Administration in 
China.

Business practices in the healthcare industry are subject to 
regulation and review by various government authorities. In general, 
the trend in many countries in which the Group does business is 
towards higher expectations and increased enforcement activity by 
governmental authorities.

While the Group is committed to doing business with integrity and 
welcomes the trend to higher standards in the healthcare industry, 
the Group and other companies in the industry have been subject to 
investigations and other enforcement activity that have incurred and 
may continue to incur significant expense. See ‘Legal proceedings’ 
on page 52.

Manufacturing, supply & distribution
The Group’s manufacturing production is concentrated at 12 main 
facilities in Memphis, Mansfield and Oklahoma City in the US, Hull, 
Warwick and Gilberdyke in the UK, Aarau in Switzerland, Tuttlingen 
in Germany, Fort Saskatchewan and Calgary in Canada and Suzhou 
and Beijing in China.

The Group operates a number of central distribution facilities in the 
key geographical areas in which it operates. Products are shipped to 
Group companies which hold small amounts of inventory locally for 
immediate or urgent customer requirements. 

The Advanced Surgical Devices division operates a distribution 
facility in Baar, Switzerland which acts as the main holding and 
consolidation point for markets in Europe. In the US, the Advanced 
Surgical Devices distribution hub is located in Memphis.

Advanced Wound Management distribution hubs are located in 
Neunkirchen, Germany; Derby, UK; and Atlanta, US.

The Group has a central Operations function which continues to 
implement Lean Manufacturing throughout the factories and the 
supply chain which is designed to improve and sustain higher levels 
of service, quality, productivity and efficiency.

Core competencies include: materials technology; high precision 
machining in Advanced Surgical Devices; and high-volume, 
automated manufacturing in Advanced Wound Management.

Each business segment purchases raw materials, components, 
finished products and packaging materials from certain key 
suppliers. These principally include metal forgings and stampings 
for orthopaedic products, optical and electronic sub-components 
and finished goods for Sports Medicine products, active ingredients 
and finished goods for Advanced Wound Management and 
packaging materials across all businesses. Suppliers are selected, 
and contracts negotiated, by a centralised Group procurement team 
wherever possible, with a view to ensure value for money based on 
the total spending across the Group.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201221

Intellectual property
Smith & Nephew has a policy of protecting the results of research 
and development carried out by the Group. Patents have 
been obtained in a wide range of fields, including orthopaedic 
reconstruction and trauma, sports medicine and advanced wound 
management. Patent protection for Group products is sought 
routinely in the Group’s principal markets. Currently, the Group’s 
patent portfolio stands at approximately 4,700 patents in force and 
patent applications pending.

Smith & Nephew also has a policy of protecting the Group’s products 
by registering trademarks under local laws of markets in which such 
products are sold. The Group vigorously protects its trademarks 
against infringement.

In addition to protecting its market position by filing and enforcing 
patents and trademarks, Smith & Nephew may oppose third-party 
patents and trademark filings where appropriate in those areas that 
might conflict with the Group’s business interests.

In the ordinary course of its business, the Group enters into a 
number of licensing arrangements with respect to its products. None 
of these arrangements individually is considered material to the 
current operations and the financial results of the Group.

Currency fluctuations
Smith & Nephew operates across many jurisdictions and therefore 
the Group’s operations are affected by transactional exchange 
rate movements in that they are subject to exposures arising from 
revenue in a currency different from the related costs and expenses. 
The Group’s manufacturing cost base is situated principally in the 
US, the UK, China and Switzerland, from which finished products 
are exported to the Group’s selling operations worldwide. Thus, 
the Group is exposed to fluctuations in exchange rates between 
the US Dollar, Sterling and Swiss Franc and the currency of the 
Group’s selling operations, particularly the Euro, Australian Dollar 
and Japanese Yen. If the US Dollar, Sterling or Swiss Franc should 
strengthen against the Euro, Australian Dollar and the Japanese Yen, 
the Group’s trading margin could be adversely affected.

The Group manages the impact of exchange rate movements on 
intra-group sales and cost of goods sold by a policy of transacting 
forward foreign currency commitments when firm purchase orders 
are placed. In addition, the Group’s policy is for forecast transactions 
to be covered between 50% and 90% for up to one year.

The Group uses the US Dollar as its reporting currency and the US 
Dollar is the functional currency of Smith & Nephew plc. The Group’s 
revenues, profits and earnings are also affected by exchange rate 
movements on the translation of results of operations in foreign 
subsidiaries for financial reporting purposes. See ‘Financial position, 
liquidity and capital resources’ on page 50.

The Group outsources manufacturing where necessary to obtain 
specialised expertise or where it is possible to gain lower cost 
without undue risk to intellectual property. Suppliers of outsourced 
products and services are selected based on their ability to deliver 
products and services to specification, and establish and maintain 
a quality system. Suppliers are trained and are monitored through 
on-site assessments and performance audits that include quality, 
service and delivery. Finished goods purchased for resale include 
screen displays, optical and electrical devices in the Advanced 
Surgical Devices division and skincare products in the Advanced 
Wound Management division.

Research and development
Smith & Nephew manages a portfolio of short and long-term 
product development projects designed to meet the future needs 
of customers and continue to provide growth opportunities for 
the business. The Group’s research and development is directed 
towards each business segment. Expenditure on research and 
development amounted to $171m in 2012 (2011 – $167m, 2010 – 
$151m), representing approximately 4.1% of Group revenue (2011 – 
3.9%, 2010 – 3.8%).

The Group continues to invest in future technology opportunities 
for clinical needs identified from across the Smith & Nephew 
businesses.

Research and development expenditure $m

$171m 
2010 

2011 

2012 

151

167

171

The medical devices industry has a rapid rate of new product 
introduction. In order to remain competitive, each of the Group’s 
business segments must continue to develop innovative products 
that satisfy customer needs and preferences or provide cost or 
other advantages. Developing new products is a costly, lengthy and 
uncertain process. A potential product may not be brought to market 
or not succeed in the market for any number of reasons, including 
failure to work optimally, failure to receive regulatory approval, failure 
to be cost-competitive, infringement of patents or other intellectual 
property rights and changes in consumer demand. The Group’s 
products and technologies are also subject to marketing attack by 
competitors. Furthermore, new products that are developed and 
marketed by the Group’s competitors may affect price levels in the 
various markets in which the Group’s business segments operate. 
If the Group’s new products do not remain competitive with those of 
competitors, the Group’s revenue could decline.

Research and development is primarily carried out at the Group’s 
principal locations, notably in Memphis, US (Orthopaedics), 
Mansfield, US (Endoscopy) and Hull, UK (Advanced Wound 
Management). There are a number of other smaller research and 
development units situated at other locations around the Group. 
In-house research is supplemented by work performed by academic 
institutions and other external research organisations in Europe, 
America and Asia.

Following the acquisition of Healthpoint Biotherapeutics the Group 
has a research and development capability in next-generation 
bioactive therapies for the treatment of chronic wounds.  The 
principal pipeline product is HP802-247 for the treatment of venous 
leg ulcers which has entered Phase 3 trials.

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Business segment review

Advanced Surgical Devices

Smith & Nephew has leadership 
positions in Orthopaedic Reconstruction, 
Sports Medicine and Trauma.

Revenue2

$3,108m 
2010 

2011  

2012 

Trading profit1,2

+2%

$728m 
2010 

2011  

2012 

3,050

3,251

3,108

Operating profit2

Trading profit margin1

$632m 
2010 

2011  

2012 

+7%

23.4% 
2010 

2011  

2012 

700

630

632

+8%

736

714

728

+150 bps

24.1

21.9

23.4

Revenue by franchise $m

874
A  Knee Implants 
B  Hip Implants 
666
C  Sports Medicine Joint Repair  521
D  Arthroscopic Enabling 

Technologies 

E  Trauma 
F  Other ASD 

409
462
176

D

Product franchise growth2 %

F

E

Knee Implants

A

Hip Implants

Sports Medicine Joint Repair

Arthroscopic Enabling Technologies

C

B

Trauma

Other

-3

-2

+3

+3

+8

+5

1 Explanations of these non-GAAP financial measures are provided on pages 44 to 46.
2 Underlying growth percentage after adjusting for the effect of currency translation and disposals.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
23

Overview
In 2012, the Advanced Surgical Devices global division 
(ASD) developed, manufactured and sold products in the 
following franchise areas: 
– Knee Implants

– Hip Implants

– Sports Medicine Joint Repair

– Arthroscopic Enabling Technologies

– Trauma
Products are manufactured at sites around the world. The 
main facilities are located in Memphis, TN, Mansfield, 
MA and Oklahoma City, OK in the US. Products are also 
manufactured in Aarau, Switzerland, Tuttlingen, Germany, 
Leamington Spa (Warwick), UK, Beijing, China and Calgary, 
Canada, as well as by third-party manufacturers. Major 
service centres are located in the US, UK, Germany, Japan 
and Australia.

Strategy
ASD was created in 2011 with the merger of the orthopaedic 
and endoscopy business units. The momentum gained 
from this merger continued in 2012. The division continues 
to take a disciplined and objective approach to resource 
allocation among its core (Hip Implant, Knee Implant and 
Arthroscopic Enabling Technologies) and growth (Sports 
Medicine Joint Repair, Trauma and Other, including 
Gynaecology) franchises. In the core franchise areas, 
ASD will continue to position itself through innovation 
and process improvement to grow with the market and 
deliver earnings. In the growth franchises, the division 
is investing increasing amounts in innovation, rapid 
iterations and market development to take both share 
and leadership positions.

The Emerging and International markets have become an 
increasingly important opportunity for Advanced Surgical 
Device products. Significant progress was made in these 
markets in 2012 with investment in division management, 
local management, sales teams and products.

In April, ASD, along with the Advanced Wound 
Management division, announced the start of a major 
initiative to align and optimise the infrastructure and 
operational activities across Smith & Nephew in Europe. 
Known as the European Process Optimisation, this multi-
year commitment will deliver a standard and simplified 
set of processes underpinned by a common enterprise 
resource planning platform and business intelligence 
system.

ASD also began phasing out slow and non-moving 
product components in 2012. The division has plans to 
address the number of product components further by 
reducing the number of platforms.

ASD provides medical education through a variety of 
training and education services tailored to individual 
surgeon needs. The Group also focuses on knowledge 
sharing, utilising the world’s top specialists and key 
opinion leaders. The ASD business supports its medical 
education strategy with investment in surgeon education 
programmes, global fellowship support initiatives, 
partnerships with professional associations and surgeon 
advisory boards.

In January 2012, the Group announced its intention to 
sell its Biologics and Clinical Therapies business (CT) to 
Bioventus LLC (‘Bioventus’). The creation of Bioventus gave 
CT the resources to address longer term development 
projects. Smith & Nephew has a 49% shareholding 
in the new venture, maintaining access to the area of 
orthobiologics, whilst realising value for reinvestment in 
nearer term opportunities. This transaction was completed 
on 4 May 2012 for a total consideration of $367m and 
resulted in a profit before taxation of $251m. CT’s revenue 
in the four month period to disposal was $69m and profit 
before taxation was $12m. CT was reported within the 
Other franchise.

Acquisitions
In 2012, the Group acquired LifeModeler, Inc. (LMI). 

LMI is the leading provider of biomechanical human body 
simulation tools and services and the developer of the 
groundbreaking software used in creating the JOURNEY 
BCS knee system. With this new software, orthopaedic 
innovations can be tested and validated faster and more 
cost effectively prior to the production of a physical 
prototype, potentially shortening the time it takes to 
develop new products and take to market.

Market and competition
In 2012, weaker economic conditions worldwide continued 
to create several challenges for the overall surgical devices 
market, including continued deferrals of joint replacement 
procedures and heightened pricing pressures.

These factors contributed to the lower overall growth of 
the worldwide surgical devices market versus historic 
comparables. However, over the medium term, several 
catalysts are expected to continue to drive sustainable 
growth in surgical device procedures, including the 
growing and ageing population with active lifestyles, 
rising rates of co-morbidities such as obesity and 
diabetes, patient desire for minimally invasive procedures, 
technology improvements allowing surgeons to treat 
younger, more active patients, and the increasing strength 
of the demand for healthcare in Emerging markets.

Global orthopaedic reconstruction segment
Smith & Nephew estimates that the global orthopaedic 
reconstruction segment is worth approximately 
$13.6bn and the segment served by Smith & Nephew 
grew by approximately 3% in 2012. Competitors in the 
orthopaedics reconstruction segment include Zimmer, 
Stryker, Johnson & Johnson and Biomet.

Global orthopaedic trauma segment
Smith & Nephew estimates that the global orthopaedic 
trauma segment is worth approximately $4.5bn 
and the segment served by Smith & Nephew grew 
by approximately 3% in 2012. Competitors in the 
orthopaedics trauma segment include Zimmer, Stryker 
and Johnson & Johnson.

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Business segment review continued

Giving surgeons access 
to innovative design  
LEGION HK Hinge Knee

The LEGION HK Hinge Knee 
gives surgeons access to an 
innovative design that transforms 
a complex salvage procedure into 
an anatomically-based joint rescue 
procedure. 

Global Sports Medicine segment
Smith & Nephew estimates that the global sports 
medicine segment (representing access, resection 
and repair products) is worth approximately $4.1bn 
and the segment served by Smith & Nephew grew by 
approximately 7% in 2012. Competitors in the sports 
medicine segment include Arthrex, Johnson & Johnson 
and Stryker.

Financial performance
Revenue
2012
Revenue $m

874
A  Knee Implants 
B  Hip Implants 
666
C  Sports Medicine Joint Repair  521
D  Arthroscopic Enabling 

Technologies 

E  Trauma 
F  Other ASD 

409
462
176

D

F

E

A

C

B

ASD revenue decreased by -4% to $3,108m from $3,251m 
in 2011. Of this decrease, underlying growth of 2% is offset 
by -2% due to unfavourable currency movements and 
-4% due to the effect of disposal of the Clinical Therapies 
business. 

The underlying increase in ASD revenue reconciles to 
reported growth, the most directly comparable financial 
measure calculated in accordance with IFRS, as follows:

Reported growth
Constant currency exchange effect
Disposals effect
Underlying growth

2012 
%

2011 
%

(4)
2
4
2

8
(4)
–
4

In the Established markets, revenue decreased by $163m 
to $2,747m (-6%). 

In the US, revenue decreased by $118m to $1,449m (-8%). 
This movement is attributable to underlying growth of 1% 
and -9% due to the effect of the disposal of the Clinical 
Therapies business. In the Established markets outside 
of the US revenue decreased by $45m to $1,298m (-3%). 
Underlying growth was 1% with -4% due to unfavourable 
currency movements.

In Emerging and International markets, revenue increased 
by $20m to $361m (6%). Underlying growth was 10% with 
-4% due to unfavourable currency.

2011
ASD revenue increased by 7% to $3,251m from $3,050m 
in 2010. Of this increase, 3% was attributable to 
underlying growth and 4% was due to favourable currency 
movements.

In the Established markets, revenue was $2,910m. This 
represented an underlying increase of 2% from 2010.

In the US, revenue was $1,567m, which represents an 
underlying growth of 2% from 2010. In the Established 
markets outside of the US, revenue was $1,343m which 
represented an underlying increase of 1% from 2010.

In the Emerging and International markets revenue was 
$341m which represents an underlying increase of 21% 
from 2010.

Trading profit
2012
Trading profit increased by $14m (2%) to $728m from 
$714m in 2011. Trading profit margin increased from 
21.9% to 23.4%. These increases reflect the early benefits 
of implementing the Strategic Priorities, in particular, 
restructuring the Group to provide the right commercial 
models and cost structure.

2011
Trading profit decreased by $22m (8%) to $714m from 
$736m in 2010. Trading profit margin decreased from 
24.1% to 21.9%. This decrease was due to continuing 
pricing pressure, adverse mix and some delay in the 
execution of our efficiency programme.

Operating profit
2012
Operating profit increased by $2m from $630m in 2011 
to $632m in 2012. This comprises the increase in trading 
profit of $14m discussed above and the recognition of 
a legal claim of $23m in 2011, offset by an increase of 
$10m in the amortisation of acquisition intangibles and 
a $25m increase in restructuring and rationalisation 
costs. Operating profit, the most directly comparable 
financial measure calculated in accordance with IFRS, 
reconciles to trading profit as follows:

Operating profit
Restructuring and rationalisation costs
Amortisation of acquisition intangibles 
Legal settlement
Trading profit

2012 
$m

2011 
$m

632
57
39
–
728

630
32
29
23
714

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
25

ASD Revenue2

Trading profit1,2

$3.1bn  +2%

$728m  +8%

2011: $3.3bn

2011: $714m

Advanced Surgical Devices trading profit and operating 
profit as a percentage of Group trading profit and 
operating profit was as follows:

Franchises
Underlying revenue growth for key product lines are:

Trading profit
Operating profit

2012 
%

75
75

2011 
%

74
73

2010 
%

76
76

2011
Operating profit decreased by $70m to $630m from 
$700m in 2010. This comprised of a decrease in trading 
profit of $22m discussed above, an increase of $3m in the 
amortisation of acquisition intangibles, a $22m increase 
in restructuring and rationalisation costs and $23m in 
respect of the legal provision.

Regulatory approvals
In 2012, the Advanced Surgical Devices division obtained 
regulatory clearances/approvals for several key products 
and instrumentations.

In the US, 510(k) clearance was obtained for Hip, Knee and 
Trauma franchise products including POLARCUP with Ti/
HA Coating, REDAPT Revision Femoral System, JOURNEY 
II CR Knee System and JOURNEY II Deep Dished Articular 
Inserts. In addition, 510(k) clearance was obtained 
for Twinfix Ultra PK, TI, HA gluteal tendon indications; 
Footprint Ultra PK gluteal tendon indications; BIORAPTOR, 
OSTEORAPTOR labral reconstruction indications; and 
allograft transplant indications.

Several products were approved in Japan including 
ANTHOLOGY Hip Stems, LEGION VERILAST CR, PS and 
Revision Knee Systems, BIOLOX Delta Ceramic Femoral 
Heads, GENESIS II Constrained Articular Inserts and 
TRIGEN Low Profile Bone Screws.

In Europe, the division renewed approval for JOURNEY 
BCS Knee System and obtained approval for JOURNEY 
II BCS Knee System. In Canada, POLARCUP XLPE 
Acetabular Liners were approved.

Reconstruction

– Knee implants
– Hip implants
Sports Medicine
Arthroscopic Enabling Technologies
Trauma

2012 
%

2011 
%

3
(3)
8
(2)
3

5
(1)
11
–
3

Orthopaedic and sports medicine procedures tend to be 
higher in the winter months (quarter one and quarter four) 
when accidents and sports related injuries are highest. 
Conversely, elective procedures tend to slow down in 
the summer months due to holidays.

Orthopaedic reconstruction
The division offers a range of specialist products for 
orthopaedic reconstruction through its Hip implant and 
Knee implant franchises. 

Both the knee and hip implant markets continue to 
experience economic pressure. Knee implant franchise 
revenue increased by 1% to $874m in 2012 which 
represented an underlying revenue growth of 3% and 
unfavourable foreign currency translation of -2%. This 
compared to a market growth rate of 3%. Growth slowed 
in the second half of 2012 as a result of a weakening of 
the overall knee market in Europe and the division’s knee 
product cycle. Between 2009 and 2011, when the division 
materially outperformed the knee market, it benefited 
from the launch of VERILAST Technology and VISIONAIRE 
Patient Matched Instrumentation. This benefit has now 
been annualised. 

In the global Hip implant franchise revenue decreased 
by $39m to $666m (-6%) in 2012, representing a -3% 
underlying revenue decline in the face of the continuing 
metal-on-metal headwinds and -2% due to unfavourable 
foreign currency translation. The Hip implant franchise, led 
by the ANTHOLOGY Hip with VERILAST Technology, has 
also continued to perform well in its focus product areas. 

Sales of our BIRMINGHAM Hip Resurfacing system 
continued to decline during the year. The BIRMINGHAM 
HIP Resurfacing System is a clinically proven system for 
hip resurfacing which preserves bone and is particularly 
suited for younger, more active male patients.

ASD launched several new products across its 
Orthopaedic Reconstruction portfolio in 2012.

1 Explanations of these non-GAAP financial measures are provided on pages 44 to 46.
2 Underlying growth percentage after adjusting for the effect of currency translation and disposals.

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Business segment review continued

Giving advantages to both 
the patient and the surgeon.  
REDAPT Revision Hip System

The REDAPT Revision Hip System 
gives advantages to both the patient 
– through more anatomic function – 
and the surgeon who benefits from 
a versatile product and a shorter 
learning curve.

Trauma
The division’s Trauma franchise offers both internal and 
external devices, as well as other products such as 
orthobiological materials used in the stabilisation of severe 
fractures and deformity correction procedures.

In the US the division is implementing a refined 
commercial model that increases the focus and resources 
needed to address the opportunities in the high-growth 
trauma and extremities markets. 

Global Trauma revenue increased by $5m to $462m (1%), 
representing underlying revenue growth of 3% and -2% 
unfavourable foreign currency translation. 

In 2012, both the VLP FOOT Percutaneous Calcaneus 
Plating System and the PERI-LOC Ankle Fusion Plating 
System were launched as part of the Group’s ALL 28 
Foot and Ankle Portfolio. Both systems are available 
to surgeons in North America, Europe and Australia 
and offer solutions for increasingly popular surgical 
approaches. The VLP FOOT Percutaneous Calcaneus 
System is designed for the percutaneous approach and 
is the only plating system to offer variable-angle locking 
technology. The PERI-LOC Ankle Fusion Plating System 
is the only system to offer surgeons options for the 
posterior approach which minimises soft tissue irritation 
and preserves the fibula.

For trauma, the principal internal fixation products are 
the TRIGEN family of IM nails (TRIGEN META-NAIL System, 
TRIGEN Humeral Nail System, TRIGEN SURESHOT, and 
TRIGEN INTERTAN). For extremities and limb restoration, 
the franchise offers the TAYLOR SPATIAL FRAME Circular 
Fixation System as well as a range of plates, screws, 
arthroscopes, instrumentation, resection, and suture 
anchor products for foot & ankle surgeons and hand & 
wrist surgeons. 

In the Hip implant franchise, the REDAPT Revision 
Femoral Hip System was launched, offering surgeons one 
reproducible system for any type of hip revision. Also, the 
POLARCUP Dual Mobility Hip System, widely available 
in Europe, was introduced in the US. In Knee implants, 
the launch of the LEGION HK Hinge Knee System and 
the LEGION Narrow Femoral Components continue to 
expand the versatility of the LEGION Total Knee System. 
In Japan, the LEGION Revision knee system and VERILAST 
Technology for primary knee replacements were approved 
to market. 

Implant bearing surfaces such as the proprietary 
OXINIUM Oxidized Zirconium continue to be a point of 
differentiation for Smith & Nephew. OXINIUM Technology 
combines the enhanced wear resistance of a ceramic 
bearing with the superior toughness of a metallic bearing. 
When combined with highly cross-linked polyethylene 
(XLPE) it results in ASD’s proprietary VERILAST Technology. 
In hip implants, the combination of a ceramicised 
metal head and a polyethylene lined cup have been 
shown in joint registry data to have superior five-year 
survivorship (97.9%) compared to implants made from 
any other material. In knees, the LEGION Primary Knee 
with VERILAST Technology is the only knee implant with 
a 30-year wear performance claim – more than double 
the length of wear performance testing of conventional 
technologies.

Another driver of Knee implant growth has been 
VISIONAIRE Patient Matched Instrumentation. With 
VISIONAIRE Instrumentation, a patient’s MRI and X-rays 
are used to create customised cutting blocks that allow the 
surgeon to achieve optimal mechanical axis alignment of 
the new implant. In addition, VISIONAIRE also helps save 
time by reducing the number of steps and instruments 
needed in the operating room.

The LEGION/GENESIS II Total Knee System is a 
comprehensive system designed to allow surgeons to 
address a wide range of knee procedures from primary 
to revision. The JOURNEY Active Knee Solutions is a family 
of advanced, customised products designed to treat 
early to mid-stage osteoarthritis patients, and provide 
more normal feeling and motion through bone ligament 
preservation and anatomic replication. In 2012, the second 
iteration of the JOURNEY Knee System, the JOURNEY II 
BCS, commenced a limited commercial release. 

For Hip implants, core systems include the ANTHOLOGY 
Hip System, SYNERGY Hip System, the SMF Short Modular 
Femoral Hip System, the R3 Acetabular System, the 
POLARCUP Dual Mobility Hip System and the SL-PLUS Hip 
Family System.  

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201227

Arthroscopic Enabling Technologies (AET)
The division’s Arthroscopic Enabling Technologies 
franchise offers healthcare providers a variety of 
technologies such as fluid management equipment for 
surgical access; high definition cameras, digital image 
capture, scopes, light sources and monitors to assist with 
visualisation inside the joints; radiofrequency (RF) probes, 
electromechanical and mechanical blades, and hand 
instruments for removing damaged tissue. 

AET revenue decreased by $16m to $409m (-4%) in 2012, 
which represented an underlying revenue decline of -2% 
and -2% of unfavourable foreign currency translation. 

Key AET products include the wide range of DYONICS 
shaver blades, ACUFEX handheld instruments, and a 
wide range of radiofrequency probes. Launched in 2011, 
the DYONICS Platinum Series Shaver Blades are single-
use blades that provide superior resection due to their 
unequalled sharpness and virtually eliminate clogging 
due to their improved debris evacuation capabilities. 

In 2012, the AET business obtained regulatory clearance 
in the United States and Europe for the DYONICS Platinum 
Blades 4.5/5.5mm.

Other
The division’s Other franchise includes smaller 
businesses such as Gynaecology, and the Clinical 
Therapies business, the latter of which was transferred to 
Bioventus in May 2012. 

The revenue in this Other franchise (excluding Clinical 
Therapies) increased by $2m to $69m (5%), which 
represented an underlying revenue growth of 7% and -2% 
of unfavourable foreign currency translation.

The franchise’s key gynaecology product is the TRUCLEAR 
System, a first-of-its-kind hysteroscopic morcellator that 
pairs continuous visualisation capabilities with minimally 
invasive tissue removal providing safe and efficient 
removal of endometrial polyps and submucousal fibroids. 
The Group also sells a hysteroscopic fluid management 
system, which provides uterine distension and clear 
visualisation during hysteroscopic procedures.

In 2012, the franchise introduced two additions to 
the TRUCLEAR System, the smaller-sized TRUCLEAR 
5.0 System and the TRUCLEAR ULTRA Reciprocating 
Morcellator 4.0. 

Sports Medicine Joint Repair
The division’s Sports Medicine Joint Repair franchise 
offers surgeons a broad array of instruments, technologies 
and implants necessary to perform minimally invasive 
surgery of the joints, including knee, hip and shoulder 
repair.

Global revenue from Sports Medicine Joint Repair 
increased by $30m to $521m (6%), of which 8% was 
underlying growth and -2% unfavourable foreign currency 
translation. 

The franchise benefited from the launch of several class-
leading products during the year. These included The 
HEALICOIL PK Suture Anchor for both shoulder and hip 
repair, ENDOBUTTON CL Ultra 10mm Fixation Device, 
CLANCY Flexible Drill System and ACUFEX PINPOINT 
Anatomic ACL Guide System. The Group also obtained 
US FDA clearance for expanding the indications of the 
HEALICOIL PK Suture Anchor and the OSTEORAPTOR 
Suture Anchor for use in hip arthroscopy.

The HEALICOIL PK Suture Anchor features a revolutionary 
open-architecture design that uses less material than 
traditional, solid-core anchors while still providing 
significantly more thread engagement and greater pullout 
strength than its competitors. The ENDOBUTTON CL 
Ultra 10mm Fixation Device is the franchise’s shortest 
continuous loop. It is designed for the growing number 
of surgeons who want to maximise the interface between 
the graft and the femoral tunnel, a feature especially 
important when using the anatomic technique to repair 
the ACL.

Joining other offerings such as the ACUFEX PINPOINT 
Anatomic ACL Guide System, CLANCY Anatomic 
Cruciate Guide, and BIOSURE Interference Screws, the 
ENDOBUTTON CL Ultra 10mm Fixation Device is part of a 
complete portfolio of options for surgeons performing a 
wide variety of anatomic ACL reconstructions. 

A major advance for  
non-invasive surgeons  
HEALICOIL PK Suture Anchor

The HEALICOIL PK Suture Anchor 
is a major advance for non-invasive 
surgeons as its unique open 
architecture provides significantly 
more thread engagement and greater 
pullout strength. 

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Advanced Wound Management

Smith & Nephew has leadership 
positions in Exudate and Infection 
management, Negative Pressure 
Wound Therapy and Bioactives

Revenue2

$1,029m
2010 

2011 

2012 

Operating profit2

$214m 
2010 

2011 

2012 

Trading profit1,2

+4%

$237m 
2010 

2011 

2012 

912

1,019

1,029

Trading profit margin1

nil%

23.1% 
2010 

2011 

2012 

220

232

214

-1%

233

247

237

-120 bps

25.6

24.3

23.1

Revenue by franchise $m

A  Infection management 
B  Exudate management 
C  Other AWM 

127
269
633

Product franchise growth2 %

A

Infection management

-2

Exudate management

+1

Other AWM 

B

+7

C

1 Explanations of these non-GAAP financial measures are provided on pages 44 to 46.
2 Underlying growth percentage after adjusting for the effect of currency translation.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
29

Overview
Smith & Nephew’s Advanced Wound Management 
division (AWM) offers a range of products from initial 
wound bed preparation through to full wound closure. 
These products are targeted at chronic wounds 
associated with the older population, such as pressure 
sores and venous leg ulcers. There are also products 
for the treatment of wounds such as burns and invasive 
surgery that impact the wider population. 

The main products within the AWM business are for 
Exudate management (predominantly the ALLEVYN brand 
and the recently added DURAFIBER products), Infection 
management (including the ACTICOAT brand) and 
Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT). 

At the end of 2012, Smith & Nephew announced the 
completion of the acquisition of substantially all the 
assets of Healthpoint Biotherapeutics (‘Healthpoint’). The 
acquisition gives Smith & Nephew a leading position in 
bioactives, the fastest growing area of advanced wound 
management. The purchase price of $782m in cash has 
been financed from Smith & Nephew’s existing cash 
resources and bank facilities.

The AWM business has its global headquarters in Hull, 
UK and its North American headquarters in St Petersburg, 
Florida. The products are manufactured at facilities in Hull 
and Gilberdyke, UK, Suzhou in China, Fort Saskatchewan 
in Canada and also by third-party manufacturers around 
the world.

Strategy
AWM’s strategy is to be customer-led and invest for 
growth by focusing on high growth, high value segments, 
in particular exudate and infection management, through 
improved wound bed preparation, moist and active 
healing; further penetration of the NPWT market; and 
building its bioactives platform. 

There has been a continued focus on operational 
efficiency and excellence. Since 2007, efficiency 
improvements have been delivered through various 
projects including support function consolidation, 
outsourcing of manufacturing to low cost suppliers, 
distribution rationalisation projects and the start of 
manufacturing in Suzhou, China. 

Our strategic focus builds from an understanding of 
the increasing tensions between clinical and financial 
imperatives – and looks for the optimistic ground that 
resolves them. Our commitment is to improve wound 
outcomes for patients, and at the same time conserve 
resources for healthcare systems.

An aligned approach across AWM is designed to ensure 
that our employees are developed and work on common 
objectives to deliver consistent execution of the Group’s 
plan. 

Acquisitions
Healthpoint
In December 2012, Smith & Nephew completed the 
acquisition of substantially all the assets of Healthpoint 
for $782m in cash. Healthpoint is a leader in bioactive 
debridement, dermal repair and regeneration wound 
care treatments. Its headquarters are in Fort Worth, Texas 
and it has approximately 460 employees, including an 
established sales force of 215. 

This acquisition had compelling strategic and financial 
rationale for Smith & Nephew. 

It gives the Group a strong position in bioactives, the 
fastest growing area of advanced wound management. 
Bioactives offer novel treatments for a range of hard- 
to-heal wounds, including the large and increasing 
prevalence of diabetic foot ulcers.

It brought a complementary range of bioactive 
debridement, dermal repair and regeneration products. 
Its principal marketed product is Collagenase SANTYL 
Ointment (‘SANTYL’), an enzymatic debrider for dermal 
ulcers and burns. Healthpoint’s offering also includes 
the OASIS family of leading acellular skin substitutes 
for venous leg ulcers and diabetic foot ulcers and 
REGRANEX, a growth factor for treating diabetic foot 
ulcers. These products generated revenues of around 
$190m in 2012 (not included in Smith & Nephew revenues 
for 2012). Its revenues are growing at a double digit 
percentage rate, driven by SANTYL ointment.

It added an established R&D capability in next-generation 
bioactive therapies for the treatment of chronic wounds. 
The principal pipeline product is HP802-247 for the 
treatment of venous leg ulcers, using cell-based therapy 
containing keratinocytes and fibroblasts. In August 2011, 
Healthpoint reported positive data from a Phase 2b clinical 
trial for HP802-247 in the treatment of venous leg ulcers, 
demonstrating that the compound met both its primary 
and secondary endpoints. The compound has recently 
entered Phase 3 trials for this indication and commercial 
launch could occur as early as 2017.

The Healthpoint acquisition will double our US AWM sales 
and strengthen our commercial scale and capabilities. 

The combination creates a wound business which is 
unique – having leadership positions across exudate and 
infection management, negative pressure and bioactive 
wound care.

The agreement for the acquisition of Healthpoint’s assets 
contains customary representations and warranties by the 
parties.

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A leading position 
in the market  
ADERMA Dermal Pads

The purchase of the ADERMA Dermal 
Pads range gave us a leading position 
in the market to treat pressure ulcers, 
which cost the NHS approximately 
£2.1bn per year.

ADERMA
The purchase of the ADERMA Dermal Pads range in 
January 2012 gave us a leading position in the market to 
treat pressure ulcers. Up to one in 10 patients admitted to 
hospitals in the UK will suffer this debilitative condition, 
costing approximately £2.1bn per year. Developing skin 
damage causes great discomfort to the patient and 
depending on the grade of the ulcer can take many 
weeks to heal whilst the majority of pressure ulcers can 
be prevented. ADERMA Dermal Pads are made from a 
unique polymer gel that redistributes pressure, allowing 
clinicians to protect bony prominences to help prevent 
skin damage. 

Kalypto
In 2012, the Company acquired Kalypto Medical, securing 
innovative complementary technology to expand our 
NPWT platform. 

Market and competition
In 2012, weaker economic conditions worldwide continued 
to create several challenges for the overall advanced 
wound management market including significant price 
pressures and increased austerity measures in Europe.

The AWM market is focused on the treatment of chronic 
wounds of the older population and other hard-to-heal 
wounds such as burns and certain surgical wounds and 
is therefore also expected to benefit from demographic 
trends. Growth is driven by an ageing population and by a 
steady advance in technology and products that are more 
clinically efficient and cost effective than their conventional 
counterparts. The market for advanced wound treatments 
is relatively unpenetrated and it is estimated that the 
potential market is significantly larger than the current 
market. Management believes that the market will 
continue the trend towards advanced wound products 
with its ability to accelerate healing rates, reduce hospital 
stay times and cut the cost of clinician and nursing time as 
well as aftercare in the home.

Smith & Nephew estimates that the global wound 
management segment is worth approximately $6.0bn and 
the segment served by Smith & Nephew grew by 1% in 
2012. Global competitors vary across the various product 
areas and include Kinetic Concepts, Molnlycke, Convatec 
and Coloplast.

Financial performance
Revenue
2012
AWM continues to outperform the market, with revenue 
growing at 4% in 2012 on an underlying basis (excluding 
a -3% unfavourable currency impact) to $1,029m. 
Management estimates that the overall market grew at 1%. 

Underlying growth in Advanced Wound Management 
revenue reconciles to reported growth, the most directly 
comparable financial measure calculated in accordance 
with IFRS, as follows:

Reported growth
Constant currency exchange effect
Underlying growth

2012 
%
1
3
4

2011 
%
12
(5)
7

In the Established markets, revenue increased from 
$906m to $907m in 2012. This represents an underlying 
growth of 3% which was offset by unfavourable currency 
movements of -3%.

In the US, revenue increased by 7% from $189m to $202m. 
In the Established markets outside of the US, revenues 
decreased -2% from $717m in 2011 to $705m in 2012. This 
represents an underlying growth of 2% after adjusting for 
-4% of unfavourable currency movements. 

Revenue in the Emerging and International markets 
increased from $113m in 2011 to $122m in 2012 (8%). 
The underlying movement was 11% offset by -3% of 
unfavourable currency movements. Exudate management 
grew at 1% and Infection management was down -2%, 
impacted by a distributor consolidation project in Canada.

2011
Revenue increased by $107m, or 12%, to $1,019m from 
$912m in 2010, comprising 5% favourable currency 
translation and 7% underlying growth. Exudate 
management grew in underlying terms by 2% and 
infection management by 4%, as targeted marketing 
investments in Europe delivered good returns. The Group’s 
NPWT portfolio has had another good year with excellent 
feedback since the launch of PICO during 2011. This was 
launched in the US during January 2012.

In the US, revenue increased by $11m to $189m (6%), all of 
which is attributable to underlying revenue growth.

Outside the US, revenue increased by $96m to $830m 
(13%). This is represented by an underlying growth of 
7% and 6% of favourable foreign currency translation. 
European revenue increased by $39m to $493m (9%) 
of which 4% was underlying growth coupled with 5% of 
favourable currency translation.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201231

AWM Revenue2

Trading profit1,2

$1.0bn  +4%

$237m 

-1%

2011: $1.0bn

2011: $247m

Trading profit
2012
Trading profit reduced by $10m to $237m from $247m 
and trading profit margin decreased from 24.3% to 23.1%. 
The decrease in the year is primarily attributable to the 
additional costs arising from investment in new products 
throughout the year.

2011
Trading profit increased by $14m (6%) to $247m from 
$233m in 2010 and trading profit margin decreased from 
25.6% to 24.3%. The comparative was assisted by a $25m 
settlement in respect of BlueSky. Ignoring the impact of 
this in the comparatives, the equivalent margin for 2010 
was 22.8%. The increase in margin in 2011 was driven by 
the increase in underlying revenues. 

Operating profit
2012
Operating profit decreased by $18m to $214m in 2012. This 
comprises a decrease in trading profit of $10m discussed 
above and an increase of $11m in connection with the 
acquisition related costs on the purchase of Healthpoint. 
These costs were partially offset by a reduction of $3m in 
the amortisation of acquisition intangibles.

Operating profit, the most directly comparable financial 
measure calculated in accordance with IFRS, reconciles to 
trading profit as follows:

Operating profit
Acquisition related costs
Restructuring and rationalisation costs
Amortisation of acquisition intangibles
Trading profit

2012 
$m
214
11
8
4
237

2011 
$m
232
-
8
7
247

Advanced Wound Management trading profit and 
operating profit as a percentage of Group trading profit 
and operating profit was as follows:

Trading profit
Operating profit

2011

2012 
%
25
25

2011 
%
26
27

2010 
%
24
24

Operating profit increased by $12m to $232m. This 
comprises an increase in trading profit of $14m and 
a reduction of $1m in the amortisation of acquisition 
intangibles. These were offset by an increase of $3m in 
restructuring and rationalisation costs.

Regulatory approvals
In 2012 regulatory clearance for sale was obtained for 
ALLEVYN Life in the EU, US, Canada and Australia and for 
the introduction of a range of German specific ALLEVYN 
variants.

DURAFIBER Ag was approved as a Class III medical device 
in the EU.

VERSAJET and the RENASYS product range were both 
approved in Japan enabling Smith & Nephew to extend 
its operations into this important space. The RENASYS Go 
pump also received regulatory approval in China. In 2012 
sterile pump versions of the PICO product launched in 
2011 obtained regulatory approval in the US, EU, Canada & 
Australia.

PICO and VERSAJET II were both certified as compliant 
with the 3rd Edition of IEC 60601 an important new 
standard for the safety of electro-medical devices which is 
now required to comply with regulations in the EU.

Additional AWM products approved in the Emerging 
markets in 2012 include OPSITE Flexifix and LEUKOSTRIP 
in China and eight new products in India (ALLEVYN and 
ALLEVYN Ag variants, DURAFIBER and ACTICOAT Flex).

1 Explanations of these non-GAAP financial measures are provided on pages 44 to 46.
2 Underlying growth percentage after adjusting for the effect of currency translation and disposals.

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Business segment review continued

Enhanced wound healing  
and improved patient comfort  
RENASYS Negative Pressure

RENASYS Negative Pressure Wound 
Therapy system, which offers 
enhanced wound healing and 
improved patient comfort, launched 
in Japan in August.

Franchises
Underlying revenue growth for key product lines are:

Exudate management

Infection management
Other AWM

2012 
%

2011 
%

1

(2)
7

2

4
10

Due to the nature of its product range there is little 
seasonal impact on the Advanced Wound Management 
business.

Advanced Wound Care 
Exudate management
Exudate management revenues decreased by -2% from 
$275m in 2011 to $269m in 2012. This represents an 
underlying growth of 1% offset by -3% in unfavourable 
currency exchange.

Exudate management products focus on efficient fluid 
management and creating the optimal moist wound 
environment that helps promote faster healing of the 
wound and reduces the risk of maceration. The principal 
technologies in this franchise are foam (ALLEVYN family) 
and gelling fibre dressings (DURAFIBER).

The ALLEVYN Gentle Border success story has continued 
with above market growth in 2012, becoming the 
largest variant of the ALLEVYN family this year. This 
was possible through focus on market share gains and 
further expansion of the range through new product 
development. In particular, the lite and shaped versions 
have further enhanced our ability to offer customers 
unique products that meet their clinical and economic 
needs. DURAFIBER commercialisation has also gained 
momentum in 2012. 

ALLEVYN Life was launched in 2012. This is the latest 
generation of ALLEVYN products offering unique benefits 
and a significant advancement in managing wounds that 
diminish the quality of life of hundreds of thousands of 
patients every year. The product was born out of extensive 
international ethnographic research to understand how 
product design and performance can improve patient 
wellbeing, leading to improvements in concordance, 
clinical outcomes and, as a result, improved economic 
outcomes. Both clinician and patient feedback have been 
overwhelmingly positive.

Infection management

Infection management revenues have fallen from $133m 
in 2011 to $127m in 2012 (-5%). This also represents an 
underlying decline of -2% along with -3% of unfavourable 
currency exchange.

AWM has two significant technologies in its infection 
management portfolio, silver (ACTICOAT and ALLEVYN 
Ag) and iodine (IODOSORB). Market conditions for silver 
containing products have continued to be difficult in 
Europe but our focus on appropriate use, evidence based 
outcomes and cost effectiveness have demonstrated 
the differentiation within our products and stabilised our 
business in 2012. The iodine-based IODOSORB product 
has benefited from new evidence, claims and geography 
expansion, adding growth to our infection management 
portfolio.

ACTICOAT Flex continues to perform well following its 
introduction in 2009 by offering the customer benefits of 
ease of use, class leading efficacy and patient comfort. 
The ACTICOAT brand was further expanded in 2012 
with ACTICOAT Surgical, delivering the antimicrobial 
performance of ACTICOAT in a specialist format designed 
for incision management – for use as part of strategies to 
reduce surgical site infections – a significant and costly 
post-surgical complication.

Other
Advanced Wound Management also offers a wide range 
of other wound care products, which means we offer 
one of the most comprehensive ranges of wound care 
solutions in the industry. These other products include 
our film and post-operative dressing offerings, skincare 
products and gels.

IV3000, AWM’s specialist IV dressing, utilises REACTIC 
film technology and a unique patterned adhesive to 
create a highly breathable product which by keeping the 
IV site dry helps to reduce the risk of bacterial growth 
and infection. IV3000 has continued to grow, especially 
through expansion into our Emerging markets and a 
continued focus on product training and education in 
2012.

OPSITE Post Op visible is an incision management 
dressing innovation that combines the attributes of the 
ideal dressing with the ability to see the incision without 
having to remove the dressing. This unique product has 
gone from strength to strength since its introduction, 
bringing it to new customers and countries, significantly 
contributing to the Advanced Wound Care brands growth 
in 2012.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201233

The Group continues to invest in medical education 
across the therapy category. Investment in clinical trials, 
consensus papers and general customer education 
and training remains a component to the overall value 
the Group brings to the advanced wound device 
market space.

During 2012, Smith & Nephew entered into a global 
settlement agreement with Wake Forest University that 
resolved all existing NPWT patent litigation between the 
two parties. 

VERSAJET (hydro-surgery debridement) system 
sales were slightly down for 2012 over 2011. Revenue 
performance is a reflection of business model changes 
transitioning customers from a loaner to purchase 
equipment which positions the product line for better 
future growth. The transition phasing is effected by capital 
budget cycles, but allows for improved therapy adoption 
within facilities and thus providing a better platform for 
future growth. In addition, the economic conditions within 
health systems to pay for higher price capital equipment 
limits the ability to effect the change in business models.

New in 2012, was the introduction of RENASYS and 
VERSAJET systems to the Japan market. Japan is one 
of the world’s largest healthcare markets, where the 
NPWT and hydrosurgery segments are relatively new 
and growing. The early presence of the Group product 
offerings in these growing market segments provide a 
platform from which to sustain future growth.

Throughout 2012, the Group continued to invest and 
introduce a range of product improvements across the 
portfolio designed to improve adoption and customer 
satisfaction. The PICO range was extended to include new 
incision site shapes and RENASYS system adaptions were 
introduced, to make the pumps easier to operate in the 
hospital environment.

Advanced Wound Devices 
Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) delivers 
vacuum-assisted pressure to help promote healing. 
It consists of a wound dressing, a drainage tube, and 
a transparent film that is connected to a suction device. 
Smith & Nephew offers the RENASYS EZ and RENASYS 
GO pump systems together with a range of foam and 
gauze dressing kits. The NPWT range was enhanced 
with the introduction of PICO, the first of its kind – a fully 
disposable NPWT system.

The NPWT strategy is to be customer-led and invest for 
growth by offering the flexibility and simplicity within the 
product range to help address both the clinical and cost 
considerations of the customer. Within the traditional 
NPWT segment the Group is focusing on gaining share 
through offering a flexible RENASYS portfolio range of 
NPWT product offerings including foam, gauze, speciality 
kits, and portable and institutional pump systems. Within 
the disposable NPWT segment, the Group offers the 
simplified PICO portfolio range and is investing in creating 
this new market segment.

Smith & Nephew’s NPWT business continued strong 
growth in 2012, reflecting share gains continuing 
across North America and Europe, and new product 
introductions in Japan and Emerging markets. In 
addition, the recently launched PICO system (disposable 
NPWT) accelerated sales growth as the product gained 
awareness and adoption across a range of therapeutic 
areas (incision sites, chronic indications) and care settings 
(OR, discharge environment and community care).

The global NPWT market growth for 2012 showed modest 
decline compared to 2011. The increase in patient therapy 
and volumes was offset by price declines in most markets.

Within North America, market price declines are a 
reflection of business model changes to a single purchase 
transaction and away from the rental revenue model. 
In addition, unit price pressure continues in various care 
settings in response to pay or pressure and changing 
healthcare delivery dynamics. Therapy days increased 
slightly as a result of new technology offerings to provide 
greater therapy availability in transition care and discharge 
environment – offset by general trends in reduced hospital 
stay. For Europe, price pressure is a reflection of increased 
competition in key markets and the general economic 
environment across most markets. NPWT therapy was 
introduced in Japan in 2010 and the market continues to 
reflect strong growth as the therapy adoption increases 
across the market.

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4 Sustainability review

As a business dedicated to 
helping improve people’s lives, our 
approach to sustainability focuses on 
positively contributing to the needs 
of stakeholders through improved 
environmental, social and economic 
performance.

Sustainability strategy 

Healthy economic performance 

Healthy social performance 

Healthy environmental performance 

Sustainability progress 

35

36

37

40

41

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
Sustainability strategy 

3535

Smith & Nephew continues to make progress 
in achieving the objectives in our sustainability strategy, 
which seeks to meet stakeholder expectations of a 
sustainable business. 

Smith & Nephew has been measuring, reporting and 
improving on its sustainability performance since 2001. 
During this time, the Group has made good progress and 
has been looking for ways to align sustainability more 
closely with our overall strategic priorities. 

With this objective in mind, and under the leadership of 
Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Bohuon, Smith & Nephew 
developed a new sustainability strategy in 2011 as 
described below. The strategy aims to reinforce a healthy 
brand and strengthen corporate reputation by focusing on 
three distinct priorities:
 – Healthy economic performance
 – Healthy social performance
 – Healthy environmental performance

Objectives
Smith & Nephew developed a comprehensive set of 2015 
targets across each of these areas. These are outlined 
below:

Sustainability vision
Smith & Nephew will continue to build a sustainable 
business based on a global commitment to healthy 
environmental, social and economic performance. 
By working with stakeholders and inspiring employees, 
the vision will create shared value for all people that 
come into contact with the business by:
 –  Reducing risk and cost
 – Building a better place to work
 –  Innovating differentiated products and services, 
and increasing engagement with customers

 – Increasing shareholder value

Sustainability is a healthy business – the journey to 2015

Our sustainability aim

Build on our brand and corporate reputation

 Be an industry leader incorporating sustainability  
objectives to reduce costs, innovate and differentiate  
our products and solutions.

 Better engage with our customers.
Be a ‘best place to work’.
Increase our shareholder value.

Our sustainability priorities

Healthy economic  
performance

Healthy social  
performance

Healthy environmental 
performance 

Delivering revenue growth and shareholder 
value through efficiency, performance and 
innovation. 

Delivering a safe and healthy work 
environment with strong ethics and values, 
which embraces diversity and plays a 
leadership role in the communities where 
the Group operates.

Minimising environmental impact by 
reducing use of energy, carbon, water 
and other key resources. 

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Sustainability review continued

Research & Development expenditure

Research & Development % of revenue

$171m 

2011: $167m

4.1%

2011: 3.9%

Smith & Nephew also introduced the REDAPT Femoral 
Revision System which was specifically designed to bring 
the concept of personalised patient treatments to the 
revision hip market. The REDAPT system allows surgeons 
to recreate a patient’s specific functionality effectively 
while quickly and easily addressing issues such as poor 
bone quality and proximal/distal mismatch. The REDAPT 
instruments maximise surgical efficiency and improve 
accuracy and reproducibility of implant position.

Business continuity
By creating a more sustainable business, Smith & 
Nephew is building resilience and flexibility to adapt to 
change. With the demand for medical technology set 
to increase well into the future, we are applying more 
sustainable ways of behaving to ensure long-term 
business continuity.

Product Development is driven by three specific 
considerations on healthcare systems and patients: 
Cost, Outcomes and Access. Design teams look at the 
overall cost of a product and how it impacts healthcare 
stakeholders, consider the benefits or outcome of new 
products and question how to enable new patients access 
to our new products and capabilities.

Supply chain
Our major supply chain partners have clearly spelled out 
sustainability targets, mostly around reducing carbon 
footprint. In addition we are working on initiatives that will 
deliver further improvements by switching distribution 
freight services where possible to lower carbon emissions 
such as from air to road and deep sea container service.

We now require sustainability reports to be provided for 
new suppliers and for each contract renewal and these 
are weighted in our assessments. There are challenges 
with small local suppliers in some countries but we are 
making progress.

Healthy economic performance 
Our sustainability targets

Achieving Healthy Economic Performance will also yield cost 
savings and increased revenue
Deliver a higher return to our shareholders than our peer group 
over the longer term
Incorporate sustainability considerations into 100% of new 
product design by 2015
Incorporate sustainability considerations with 100% of our major 
supply chain partners by 2015

Smith & Nephew makes a major contribution to the health 
and well-being of individuals and communities across 
the world. Our pioneering technologies enable nurses, 
surgeons and other medical practitioners to provide 
effective treatment quickly and affordably. More than this, 
they help increase accessibility and save and improve the 
quality of people’s lives – all while helping the business 
thrive.

Product design
Revenue growth through innovation
In order to grow, thrive and combat some of the world’s 
most widespread health issues Smith & Nephew place 
a strong emphasis on new product development and 
innovation.

By designing products, instruments and techniques that 
provide both clinical and cost benefits, the Group’s work in 
this area has a major impact on improving the efficiency of 
health services. From reducing the frequency of dressing 
changes and shortening operating room time, to reducing 
infection rates and length of time spent in hospital – the 
Group’s efforts in this area have a significant impact on the 
lives of people across more than 90 countries.

In 2012, Smith & Nephew launched an entirely new 
concept in advanced wound care management with 
ALLEVYN Life, which focuses on the patient’s overall 
quality of life. Patient-centric in design, and considering 
the entire healthcare chain from provider to patient, 
ALLEVYN Life allows more healthcare providers the 
opportunity to help patients with hard to heal or hard to 
manage wounds. Research has shown that improving 
patient well-being is fundamental to reducing the 
economic cost of wound care. ALLEVYN Life offers 
unique benefits that help deliver this and is a significant 
advancement in preventing wounds that diminish the 
quality of life of many patients every year.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201237

Lost time injury rate 

Corporate citizenship/philanthropy spend

-17%

2011: +1%

$14m 

2011: $14m

Healthy social performance
Our sustainability targets

 A safe and healthy work environment. Strive for zero injuries 
and attain a position in top quartile of industry for safety 
performance through 2015

 A healthy workforce. Implement wellness programmes 
in at least 60% of our major facilities by 2015

 A diverse workforce. At least 40% of our global talent pool will 
be women by 2015

 An ethical work environment. Employees must continue to 
complete annually assigned compliance training and certify 
adherence to our Code of Conduct and Business Principles

 A responsible leader in the community. Contribute more 
than 1% of adjusted pre-tax profits annually towards corporate 
citizenship/philanthropy through 2015

Smith & Nephew touches the lives of millions of customers, 
communities and people across 90 countries. To deliver 
our technological innovations, we rely on the commitment 
and hard work of a network of more than 10,000 
employees. 

A safe and healthy working environment
Smith & Nephew has a longstanding commitment 
to the safety and health of employees, visitors and 
contractors. By reinforcing the responsibility of employees 
and contractors to work safely and follow our policies, 
standards and procedures, we are building a safe and 
healthy place to work.

In 2012 we achieved a 9% improvement in the 
Occupational Safety and Health Administration Total 
Recordable Incident Rate (TIR) and a 17% improvement 
in the Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR). In addition 
the severity of lost time injuries, as measured by number 
of days lost reduced by 10%. These improvements were 
achieved through determined management leadership 
and engagement of our employees.

Group safety rates

2011 TIR

2012 TIR

2011 LTIFR

2012 LTIFR

0.58

0.48

1.16

1.06

Wellness programmes
By the end of 2012 structured wellness programmes were 
in place at eight out of 18 of our major facilities covering 46% 
of our employees. Smith & Nephew defines major facilities 
as those in which more than 100 people report to work. 
Wellness programmes typically include lifestyle screenings 
and health assessments and preventative programmes 
based on nutrition and fitness advice. In some locations 
there are on site fitness facilities and classes.

Diversity at Smith & Nephew
Smith & Nephew believes that diversity fuels innovation. 
We focus on creating an inclusive, engaging environment 
where employees are valued and drive achievement of 
our goals. Such an environment fosters strength in our 
business because the variety of perspectives, experiences 
and work styles enhance creativity and innovation. We are 
committed to employment practices based on equality 
of opportunity, regardless of colour, creed, race, national 
origin, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation or mental 
or physical disability unrelated to the ability of the person to 
perform the essential functions of the job. 

The Board and Executive continue to recognise the 
importance of diversity and over the last two years have 
expanded their own diversity profile. 

An ethical work environment
We earn trust
Trust is the foundation on which Smith & Nephew is built 
and it is the hallmark of its interactions with stakeholders 
both inside and outside the Group. A Code of Conduct 
and Business Principles defines the standards of 
behaviour for the Group’s employees as well as suppliers, 
contractors and distributors authorised to do business on 
the Group’s behalf.

Smith & Nephew fosters trust through open 
communication and a collaborative environment where 
ideas are encouraged, recognised and rewarded. 
Communication channels include group-wide newsletters 
and intranet platforms as well as a variety of forums for 
open dialogue including quarterly reports from the CEO 
and quarterly employee meetings on the state of the 
Group and important initiatives.

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Code of Conduct and Business Principles
Smith & Nephew aims to be honest and fair in all aspects 
of its operations and expects the same from those 
with whom it does business. Our Code of Conduct and 
Business Principles governs the way we operate so that 
we respect stakeholders and seek to build open, honest 
and constructive relationships.

Smith & Nephew takes account of ethical, social, 
environmental, legal and financial considerations as part of 
its operating methods. We have a robust whistle-blowing 
system in all jurisdictions in which Smith & Nephew operates 
and where we have the necessary regulatory approvals. 
Our Code also states that we have a non-retaliation policy 
against anyone who makes a report in good faith.

New employees receive training on our Code of Conduct 
and Business Principles. We also assign annual 
compliance training to employees. In 2012, we created 
two courses: ‘I earn trust’ and ‘Data privacy’ to use for our 
annual training. The ‘I earn trust’ module focused on the 
key elements that make up trust – goodwill, ability and 
integrity – and gave employees an opportunity to practice 
earning trust in different scenarios.

Global Compliance Programme
Smith & Nephew aims to have a world-class, Global 
Compliance Programme that helps our business mitigate 
risk and comply with global laws. In 2012, Smith & 
Nephew continued to strengthen its comprehensive 
compliance programme which includes global policies 
and procedures, on-boarding and annual training for its 
employees and managers around the world, monitoring 
and auditing processes, and reporting channels. We 
provide resources and tools to guide employees through 
a global intranet web site. We require approvals for any 
significant interactions with healthcare professionals or 
government officials. New distributors are subject to due 
diligence, required to commit to compliance with our Code 
and take training.

In 2012, under the terms of the Company’s FCPA 
settlement (see Legal Proceedings), we retained an 
independent monitor to review the effectiveness of our 
compliance programme and make recommendations, as 
appropriate, for further enhancements to the programme. 
The monitor completed his initial review in August, 
and we are now in the process of implementing the 
recommended enhancements.

A responsible leader in the community
For Smith & Nephew, corporate citizenship and 
philanthropy play an integral role in the achievement of 
the Group’s strategic objectives of creating commercial 
value, building a strong reputation and creating deeper 
engagement for employees.

Smith & Nephew adopts a shared value approach to 
philanthropy and citizenship which focuses on leveraging 
the Group’s resources to be a force for good. The principal 
focus is on support for research, prevention, treatment 
and recovery of joint and bone health and wound care. 
In 2012, a new philanthropy policy was agreed and will 
be deployed in 2013. Details of this will be given in the full 
Sustainability Report to be published later this year.

In 2012, Smith & Nephew’s support for community 
charitable causes, grants, sponsorships and medical 
education was approximately $14m including $2m in 
product donations. As a matter of policy, Smith & Nephew 
makes no political contributions.

Smith & Nephew has developed relationships through 
healthcare professionals around the globe to support 
medical missions and medical education. In 2012 this 
charitable outreach included mission work in Vietnam 
through the Prosthetics Outreach Foundation, in Ecuador 
and Guatemala and the US through Operation Walk and 
Canvasback Missions in Majuro, Republic of the Marshall 
Islands. 

Our initiatives into medical education included being the 
first sole sponsor of an Orthopaedic facility when the 
KwaZulu-Natal Orthopaedic Training Centre at the Inkosi 
Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, South Africa opened 
its doors in June 2012. This Centre provides training 
and education opportunities for surgeons from across 
Africa looking to learn minimally-invasive arthroscopic 
techniques.

Employees help raise community 
awareness for Child Survival Programme

Our employees participated in many volunteer 
programmes during 2012 including the Manly-Manado 
Walk to raise funds for Compassion’s Child Survival 
Programme in Manado, Indonesia. Employees from our 
offices in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia joined 
others in the community to help raise awareness 
of why water, sanitation and hygiene matter in a 
developing community.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201239

Our people and communities
Our people strategy, which outlines our approach to 
leading our workforce and supports the delivery of our 
business strategy, is built on three key pillars: attract, 
recruit and retain talent; develop leaders; and engage 
employees through value driven strategies.

Smith & Nephew’s vision is to be the best at improving 
people’s lives and this vision extends to our employees. 
Our employees are dedicated to our core values of 
Performance, Innovation and Trust which represent the 
foundation of our culture. 

Investing in our people and communities will help us 
ensure the long-term sustainability of our business. 
In 2012, our workforce included more than 10,000 
employees, based in 32 countries. Our employment 
practices are designed to help us create the right 
workplace culture in which all employees feel valued, 
respected, empowered and inspired.

We strive to have the communities in which we work 
prosper as our business grows. Our community 
investment strengthens our business by supporting the 
local economies where we operate, helping us build 
strong relationships and capitalising on the philanthropic 
spirit of our workforce. 

Attracting the best talent and developing and engaging 
our employees is critical to achieving and sustaining 
our business objectives and overall performance. Our 
appointments are made on merit and in alignment with a 
core set of competencies and values of which ethics and 
integrity are central. Our priority lies in the development 
and promotion of our employees whenever possible. 

Each year, Smith & Nephew conducts a comprehensive 
global development and capability review process 
to identify high potential employees and ensure they 
have solid development plans. We continue to work on 
succession plans for critical positions across our business 
and have taken proactive steps to recruit specialist and 
leadership talent to augment our current team. We pride 
ourselves in maintaining a robust leadership strategy to 
identify and develop our leaders and offer a wide range 
of learning opportunities to our employees. Current 
programmes include the CEO forum designed to develop 
talent and provide exposure to the broader business and 
the General Managers Meeting held annually to align 
these key leaders with the Group’s strategy and goals. 
In addition the Board reviews succession plans for key 
executive roles.

Our performance management process means 
employees are set business aligned objectives and 
behavioural goals that are rewarded on high performance. 
Reward systems are focused on promoting high 
performance and helping to attract and retain the 
best people.

Smith & Nephew strives to create a more engaged and 
productive workforce and focuses on four measures 
to drive employee engagement. These include an 
understanding of the Group’s mission and direction, 
sense of employee involvement, focus and adaptability to 
customers and market place. We continue to listen to our 
employees and value their opinions. In 2012, more than 
90% of our workforce responded to our Global Survey.

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Energy usage

-1.5%

Water consumption

+2.6%

Healthy environmental performance
Our sustainability targets

 Reduce non-renewable energy use by 15% by 2015

 Reduce CO2 emissions by 15% by 2015
Reduce water use by 15% by 2015

 Reduce packaging materials by 15% by 2015

Reduce total waste by 15% by 2015
Increase the percentage of total waste recycled by 15%  
by 2015 (all normalised for growth)

Smith & Nephew is committed to reducing the impact 
of its activities on the environment to create a healthier 
planet. By focusing on energy and waste reduction, the 
Group is also reducing costs and becoming more efficient. 

2012 Key performance compared 
to normalised 2011 baseline %*

-1.5

-1.8

Energy

CO2

Water

Total Group waste

2.6

5.1

Change in % waste sent for recycling

21.3

* Smith & Nephew uses a normalisation process based on cost of 

production which is defined as the cost of goods sold adjusted for opening 
and closing inventory levels. As production efficiencies are realised the 
cost of goods sold reduces and this can distort the effects of real 
environmental benefits making them appear less than actually achieved. 
Smith & Nephew will include a longer commentary on the normalisation 
process in its full Sustainability Report published later this year.

Reduction in CO2 emissions of 100  
metric tonnes: by re-routing vehicles  
for improved efficiency

Our Advanced Surgical Devices facility in Alberta, 
Canada has reduced the number of miles that 
materials and products are transported by re-routing 
some vehicles for improved efficiency. This initiative 
has reduced the number of journeys and therefore 
the overall distances driven by 120,000 miles per 
year. This equates to an approximate reduction in CO2 
emissions of 100 metric tonnes.

Energy and carbon reduction
Smith & Nephew recognises that emissions resulting 
from its global operations represent one of the key 
environmental impacts arising from the business. In 
2012, initiatives to reduce our energy consumption and 
associated carbon emissions have resulted in a reduction 
in energy usage of -1.5% and -1.8% reduction in carbon 
emissions.

There has been tracking of energy savings initiatives at all 
of the major facilities. These range from lighting to heating 
and air handling to water cooling.

Lighting upgrades in warehousing and manufacturing 
centres have contributed to significant energy savings. 
Improvements to equipment and processes have resulted 
in reduced power consumption across a number of 
production facilities.

Water
Water consumption has risen by 2.6% in 2012. Achieving a 
reduction in water usage is particularly challenging as the 
majority of the water used wthin the Group is consumed 
at one individual facility where water is used for many key 
processes. This will be reviewed in 2013.

Packaging, waste and recycling
Waste reduction, including that related to product 
packaging, is a priority for Smith & Nephew. Given that 
a large amount of medical products are shipped and 
transported it is vital to ensure that these are protected 
from the point of manufacture through to the point of 
delivery. Product packaging plays a critical role in ensuring 
this safe delivery. 

Establishing an effective strategy to meet our target 
for reduction in packaging materials is challenging 
due to the highly regulated environment and long lead 
times for change approvals. However by considering 
design, exploring ways to reduce and using new, more 
sustainable materials we are making progress in this area. 

In 2012, one of our supply chain teams developed a 
specific process to optimise how our products are 
shipped and reduce shipping ‘air around the world’. 
By implementing this process for outbound packaging 
operations, corrugated cardboard usage was reduced by 
over 6 tonnes and CO2 emissions reduced by 6,148kg in 
2012. These reductions will have a further positive impact 
in 2013 when the process is fully implemented.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201241

Waste recycled

+21.3%

Total waste produced

+5.1%

In 2012, our overall waste rose by 5.1% largely due to 
equipment and layout changes, inventory adjustments 
arising from relocations and some building and demolition 
work. We are not satisfied with this and in 2013 we will 
increase our focus on the waste hierarchy, in particular 
prevention at source.

Significant improvements have been made in recycling 
waste which rose in 2012 by 21.3% and now stands 
at 58%.

Sustainability progress
Smith & Nephew retained its membership of the 
FTSE4Good. The FTSE4Good Index and Ratings have 
been designed to measure the performance of companies 
that meet or exceed globally recognised standards.

The Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI World) was 
established to track the performance of the world’s 
largest companies that lead the field in terms of corporate 
sustainability. Smith & Nephew’s score improved this year 
and our inclusion in the Index was maintained.

Suzhou: 55% energy saving for 
facility lighting

Smith & Nephew has been commended by the 
Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), which represents 655 
institutional investors with $78 trillion in assets, for its 
approach to the disclosure of climate change information. 
For the first time in 2012 Smith & Nephew is featured in 
CDP’s ‘Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index.’ This index, 
a key component of CDP’s annual FTSE 350 report, 
highlights the constituent companies within the FTSE 
350 Index which have displayed a strong approach 
to information disclosure regarding climate change. 
Companies are scored on their climate change disclosure 
and high scores indicate good internal data management 
and understanding of climate change related issues 
affecting the Company.

Our Goodlett Farms Innovation Centre in Memphis, 
TN, USA, achieved the internationally recognised LEED 
(Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold 
Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. This 
is the first LEED certified building in the global Smith & 
Nephew portfolio. 

Looking ahead
A more detailed review of Smith & Nephew’s 2012 
sustainability performance will be featured in our 2012 
Sustainability Report to be published later this year.

The lighting in the warehouse at the Advanced Wound 
Management facility in Suzhou, China has been 
upgraded by fitting electrodeless lamps resulting in 
a 55% energy saving. This equates to a reduction in 
use of over 85,000 kWh per annum and associated 
annual cost savings. The advantages also include 
extended lamp life and therefore lower maintenance 
and replacement costs.

Since 2001, Smith & Nephew  
has proudly reported on corporate 
sustainability. You may access our  
past and current Sustainability Reports 
through our corporate website  
www.smith-nephew.com 

Contact us directly regarding Sustainability 
at sustainability@smith-nephew.com 

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5 Financial review and principal risks

The Group remains in a strong cash 
generative position, with a healthy 
balance sheet to fund further growth.

Financial review 

Outlook and trend information 

Principal risks and risk management  

43

53

54

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
Financial review

43

Group revenue2

Basic earnings per Ordinary Share

$4.1bn  +2%

81.3c  +24.5%

2011: $4.3bn

2011: 65.3c

Financial highlights

Group revenue was $4,137m for the year ended 
31 December 2012, representing a -3% decline compared 
to 2011. This comprised of underlying revenue growth of 2%, 
unfavourable currency translation of -2% and the disposal 
impact from the sale of the Clinical Therapies business 
totalling -3%.

Attributable profit in 2012 was $729m compared to $582m 
in 2011. Adjusted attributable profit (calculated as set out in 
‘Selected financial data’ on pages 156 to 157) increased 2% 
to $679m in 2012, from $664m in 2011.

Basic earnings per Ordinary Share were 81.3¢, compared to 
65.3¢ for 2011. EPSA (as set out in ‘Selected financial data’) 
was 75.7¢ in 2012 compared to 74.5¢ for 2011, representing a 
2% increase.

Financial highlights (i) (iii)

Revenue

Underlying growth in revenue (%)

Trading profit

Underlying growth in trading profit (%)

Trading profit margin (%)

Operating profit

Attributable profit for the year

Adjusted attributable profit

Basic earnings per Ordinary Share

EPSA 

Growth in EPSA (%)

Dividends per Ordinary Share (ii)

Cash generated from operations

Trading cash flow

Trading profit to cash conversion (%)

2012 
$m

2011 
$m

2010 
$m

4,137

4,270

3,962

2%

965

6%

4%

961

(4)%

4%

969

11%

23.3%

22.5%

24.5%

846

729

679

81.3¢

75.7¢

2%

26.1¢

1,184

999

104%

862

582

664

65.3¢

74.5¢

1%

920

615

654

69.3¢

73.6¢

12%

17.40¢

15.82¢

1,135

838

87%

1,111

825

85%

(i) 

(ii) 

 Items shown in italics are non-GAAP measures. Reconciliations to reported figures 
are on pages 44 to 46.
 The Board has proposed a final dividend of 16.2 US cents per share which together 
with the first interim dividend of 9.9 US cents makes a total for 2012 of 26.1 US cents. 
The final dividend is expected to be paid, subject to shareholder approval, on 
8 May 2013 to shareholders on the Register of Members at the close of business 
on 19 April 2013.

(iii)  All items are $m unless otherwise indicated.

2 Underlying growth percentage after adjusting for the effect of a currency translation and disposal.

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Financial review continued

Measuring performance
Revenue
‘Underlying growth in revenue’ is used to compare the revenue 
in a given year to the previous year on a like-for-like basis. This is 
achieved by adjusting for the impact of sales of products acquired 
in material business combinations and for movements in exchange 
rates. Underlying growth in revenue is not presented in the accounts 
prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting 
Standards (‘IFRS’) and is therefore a measure not in accordance with 
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (a ‘non-GAAP’ measure).

The Group believes that the tabular presentation and reconciliation 
of reported revenue growth to underlying revenue growth assists 
investors in their assessment of the Group’s performance in each 
business segment and for the Group as a whole.

Underlying growth in revenue is considered by the Group to be 
an important measure of performance in terms of local functional 
currency since it excludes those items considered to be outside the 
influence of local management. The Group’s management uses this 
non-GAAP measure in its internal financial reporting, budgeting and 
planning to assess performance on both a business segment and 
a consolidated Group basis. Revenue growth at constant currency 
is important in measuring business performance compared to 
competitors and compared to the growth of the market itself.

The Group considers that revenue from sales of products acquired 
in material business combinations results in a step-up in growth in 
revenue in the year of acquisition that cannot be wholly attributed 
to local management’s efforts with respect to the business in the 
year of acquisition. Depending on the timing of the acquisition, 
there will usually be a further step change in the following year. 
A measure of growth excluding the effects of business combinations 
also allows senior management to evaluate the performance and 
relative impact of growth from the existing business and growth 
from acquisitions. The process of making business acquisitions 
is directed, approved and funded from the Group corporate centre 
in line with strategic objectives.

The material limitation of the underlying growth in revenue measure 
is that it excludes certain factors, described above, which ultimately 
have a significant impact on total revenues. The Group compensates 
for this limitation by taking into account relative movements in 
exchange rates in its investment, strategic planning and resource 
allocation. In addition, as the evaluation and assessment of 
business acquisitions is not within the control of local management, 
performance of acquisitions is monitored centrally until the business 
is integrated.

The Group’s management considers that the non-GAAP measure 
of underlying growth in revenue and the GAAP measure of 
growth in revenue are complementary measures, neither of which 
management uses exclusively.

‘Underlying growth in revenue’ reconciles to growth in revenue 
reported, the most directly comparable financial measure calculated 
in accordance with IFRS by making two adjustments, the ‘constant 
currency exchange effect’ and the ‘acquisitions effect’, described 
below.

The ‘constant currency exchange effect’ is a measure of the 
increase/decrease in revenue resulting from currency movements 
on non-US Dollar sales. This is measured as the difference between 
the increase in revenue translated into US Dollars on a GAAP basis 
(ie current year revenue translated at the current year average rate, 
prior year revenue translated at the prior year average rate) and the 
increase measured by translating current and prior year revenue into 
US Dollars using the prior year closing rate.

The ‘acquisitions effect’ is the measure of the impact on revenue 
from newly acquired business combinations. This is calculated by 
excluding the revenue from sales of products acquired as a result of 
a business combination consummated in the current year, with non-
US Dollar sales translated at the prior year average rate. Additionally, 
prior year revenue is adjusted to include a full year of revenue from 
the sales of products acquired in those business combinations 
consummated in the previous year, calculated by adding back 
revenue from sales of products in the period prior to the Group’s 
ownership. These sales are separately tracked in the Group’s internal 
reporting systems and are readily identifiable.

The ‘disposals effect’ is the measure of the impact on revenue 
from the disposal of business operations during the year. This is 
calculated by excluding the revenue from sales of products the 
Group no longer sells as a result of the disposal in the current year, 
with non-US Dollar sales translated at the prior year average rate. 
Additionally, prior year revenue is adjusted to remove a full year 
of revenue from the sales of products disposed. These sales are 
separately tracked in the Group’s internal reporting systems and are 
readily identifiable.

Reported revenue growth, the most directly comparable financial 
measure calculated in accordance with IFRS, reconciles to underlying 
growth in revenue as follows:

Reported revenue growth
Constant currency exchange effect
Disposals effect
Underlying revenue growth

2012 
%
(3)
2 
3
2

2011 
%
8
(4) 
–
4

2010 
%
5
(1)
–
4

Operating profit, the most directly comparable financial measure 
calculated in accordance with IFRS, reconciles to trading profit as 
follows:

Operating profit
Acquisition related costs
Restructuring and rationalisation costs
Amortisation of acquisition intangibles and 
impairments
Legal claim (see page 53)
Trading profit

2012 
$m
846
11
65

43
–
965

2011 
$m
862
–
40

36
23
961

2010 
$m
920
–
15

34
–
969

A reconciliation of reported revenue growth to underlying revenue 
growth, by business segment, can be found on pages 22 to 33.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201245

Trading profit
Trading profit is a trend measure which presents the long-term 
profitability of the Group excluding the impact of specific transactions 
that management considers affects the Group’s short-term 
profitability. The Group presents this measure to assist investors in 
their understanding of trends. The Group has identified the following 
items, where material, as those to be excluded from operating profit 
when arriving at trading profit: acquisition and disposal related 
items including amortisation of acquisition intangible assets and 
impairments; significant restructuring events; acquisition costs; and 
gains and losses resulting from legal disputes and uninsured losses.

A reconciliation of operating profit to trading profit, by business 
segment, can be found on pages 22 to 33.

Adjusted earnings per Ordinary Share
Growth in ‘adjusted earnings per Ordinary Share (‘EPSA’)’ is another 
measure which presents the trend in the long-term profitability 
of the Group. EPSA is not a recognised measure under IFRS and 
is therefore a non-GAAP financial measure. The most directly 
comparable financial measure calculated in accordance with IFRS is 
earnings per Ordinary Share.

EPSA excludes the same impact of specific transactions or 
events that management considers affect the Group’s short-term 
profitability, is used by the Group for similar purposes, and is subject 
to the same material limitations, as set out and discussed in the 
above section on trading profit.

Adjusted attributable profit represents the numerator used in 
the EPSA calculation. Adjusted attributable profit is reconciled to 
attributable profit, the most directly comparable financial measure in 
accordance with IFRS, as follows:

Growth in ‘trading profit’ and ‘trading profit margin’ (trading profit 
expressed as a percentage of revenue) are measures which present 
the growth trend in the long-term profitability of the Group excluding 
the impact of specific transactions or events that management 
considers affect the Group’s short-term profitability. The Group 
presents these measures to assist investors in their understanding 
of the trends. The Group’s international financial reporting (budgets, 
monthly reporting, forecasts, long-term planning and incentive plans) 
focuses primarily on profit and earnings before these items. Trading 
profit and trading profit margin are not recognised measures under 
IFRS and are therefore non-GAAP financial measures.

Attributable profit for the year
Acquisition related costs
Restructuring and rationalisation expenses
Amortisation of acquisition intangibles and 
impairments
Profit on disposal of net assets held for sale
Legal claim (see page 53)
Taxation on excluded items (see page 104) 
Adjusted attributable profit

2012 
$m 
729
11
65

43
(251)
–
82
679

2011 
$m
582
–
40

36
–
23
(17)
664

2010 
$m
615
–
15

34
–
–
(10)
654

The material limitation of these measures is that they exclude 
significant income and costs that have a direct impact on current and 
prior years’ profit attributable to shareholders. They do not, therefore, 
measure the overall performance of the Group presented by the 
GAAP financial measure of operating profit. The Group considers 
that no single measure enables it to assess overall performance 
and therefore it compensates for the limitation of the trading profit 
measure by considering it in conjunction with its GAAP equivalent. 
The gains or losses which are identified separately arise from 
irregular events or transactions. Such events or transactions are 
authorised centrally and require a strategic assessment which 
includes consideration of financial returns and generation of 
shareholder value. Amortisation of acquisition intangibles will occur 
each year, whilst other excluded items arise irregularly depending on 
the events that give rise to such items.

Earnings per Ordinary share
Basic 
Diluted
Adjusted: Basic
Adjusted: Diluted

2012 
81.3¢
80.9¢
75.7¢
75.4¢

2011
65.3¢
65.0¢
74.5¢
74.2¢

 2010
69.3¢ 
69.2¢
73.6¢
73.6¢

Trading cash flow and trading profit to cash 
conversion ratio
Growth in trading cash flow and improvement in the trading profit to 
cash conversion ratio are measures which present the trend growth 
in the long-term cash generation of the Group excluding the impact 
of specific transactions or events that management considers affect 
the Group’s short-term performance.

Trading cash flow is defined as cash generated from operations less 
net capital expenditure but before acquisition related cash flows, 
restructuring and rationalisation cash flows and cash flows arising 
from legal disputes and uninsured losses. Trading profit to cash 
conversion ratio is trading cash flow expressed as a percentage of 
trading profit. The nature and material limitations of these adjusted 
items are discussed above.

The Group presents those measures to assist investors in their 
understanding of trends. The Group’s internal financial reporting 
(budgets, monthly reporting, forecasts, long-term planning and 
incentive plans) focuses on cash generation before these items. 
Trading cash flow and trading profit to cash conversion ratio are not 
recognised measures under IFRS and are therefore considered non-
GAAP financial measures.

The material limitation of this measure is that it could exclude 
significant cash flows that have had a direct impact on the current 
and prior years’ financial performance of the Group. It does 
not, therefore, measure the financial performance of the Group 
presented by the GAAP measure of cash generated from operations. 
The Group considers that no single measure enables it to assess 
financial performance and therefore it compensates for the limitation 
of the trading cash flow measure by considering it in conjunction with 
the GAAP equivalents. Cash flows excluded relate to irregular events 
or transactions including acquisition related costs, restructuring and 
rationalisation costs and cash flows arising from legal disputes and 
uninsured losses.

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Financial review continued

Trading cash flow reconciles to cash generated from operations, 
the most directly comparable financial measure calculated in 
accordance with IFRS, as follows:

A more detailed analysis is included within the ‘Revenue’ sections of 
the individual business segments that follow on pages 22 and 33.

Cash generated from operations
Less: Capital expenditure
Add: Cash received on disposal 
of fixed assets
Add: Acquisition related costs

Add: Restructuring and rationalisation 
related expenditure
Add: Legal settlement
Add: Macrotexture expenditure
Trading cash flow
Trading profit
Trading profit to cash conversion ratio

2012 
$m
1,184
(265)

–
3

55
22
–
999
965
104%

2011 
$m
1,135
(321)

–
1

20
–
3
838
961
87%

2010 
$m
1,111
(315)

8
–

16
–
5
825
969
85%

2012 Financial highlights
The following table sets out certain income statement data for the 
periods indicated:

Revenue (i)
Cost of goods sold (ii)
Gross profit
Marketing, selling and distribution expenses
Administrative expenses (iii), (iv), (v)
Research and development expenses
Operating profit (i)
Net interest receivable/(payable)
Other finance costs
Share of profit from associates
Profit on disposal of net assets held for sale
Profit before taxation
Taxation 
Attributable profit for the year

2012 
$m
4,137
(1,070)
3,067
(1,440)
(610)
(171)
846
2
(3)
4
251
1,100
(371)
729

2011 
$m
4,270
(1,140)
3,130
(1,526)
(575)
(167)
862
(8)
(6)
–
–
848
(266)
582

(i) 

(ii) 

 Group revenue and operating profit are derived wholly from continuing operations 
and discussed on a segment basis on pages 22 to 33.
 In 2012, $3m of restructuring and rationalisation expenses were charged to cost of 
goods sold (2011 – $7m).

(iii)   2012 includes $51m of amortisation of other intangible assets (2011 – $42m).
(iv)  2012 includes $nil relating to legal provision (2011 – $23m).
(v) 

 2012 includes $62m of restructuring and rationalisation expenses, $43m relating 
to amortisation of acquisition intangibles and $11m acquisition related costs 
(2011 – $33m of restructuring and rationalisation expenses and $36m relating to 
amortisation of acquisition intangibles).

Revenue
Group revenue decreased by $133m (-3%) from $4,270m in 2011 to 
$4,137m in 2012. Underlying revenue growth was 2% of which -2% 
growth was attributable to unfavourable currency translation and -3% 
was attributable to the effect of disposing of the Clinical Therapies 
business. Advanced Surgical Devices revenues decreased by 
$143m (-4%), underlying growth was 2% of which -2% was due to 
unfavourable currency translation and -4% due to the disposal of 
the Clinical Therapies business. Advanced Wound Management 
revenues increased by $10m (1%), underlying growth was 4% with 
-3% due to unfavourable currency translation.

Cost of goods sold
Cost of goods sold decreased by $70m to $1,070m from $1,140m 
in 2011 which represents a 6% decrease. Of this movement, 1% is 
due to favourable currency translation movements. The remaining 
movement is largely attributable to the continued focus on costs, and 
partly attributable to the sale of the Clinical Therapies business in 
May 2012 which impacted both sales and cost of sales.

Further margin analysis is included within the ‘Trading profit’ sections 
of the individual business segments that follow on pages 22 to 33.

Marketing, selling and distribution expenses
Marketing, selling and distribution expenses decreased by $86m 
(-6%) to $1,440m from $1,526m in 2011. The underlying movement 
of -4% is after adjusting for favourable currency movement of -2%. 
Increased cost savings in Established markets were partly offset by 
investment in Emerging and International markets and promotion of 
new products particularly in Advanced Wound Management.

Administrative expenses
Administrative expenses increased by $35m (6%) to $610m from 
$575m in 2011. Favourable currency movements offset 2% of this 
increase. The main factors contributing to the underlying movement 
of 8% were an increase of $16m in amortisation on acquisition and 
other intangibles and an increase of $11m in acquisition costs.

Research and development expenses
Expenditure as a percentage of revenue increased by 0.2% to 4.1% in 
2012 (2011 – 3.9%). Actual expenditure was $171m in 2012 compared 
to $167m in 2011. The Group continues to invest in innovative 
technologies and products to differentiate it from competitors.

Operating profit
Operating profit decreased by $16m to $846m from $862m in 
2011. This comprised an increase of $2m in Advanced Surgical 
Devices and a decrease of $18m in Advanced Wound Management. 
Advanced Surgical Devices started to see the benefits of its focus 
on costs (more than offsetting the additional restructuring expense) 
whilst Advanced Wound Management has continued to invest in 
new products throughout the year and also acquired Healthpoint 
Biotherapeutics in December 2012, both increasing costs.

Net interest receivable/(payable)
Net interest payable reduced by $10m from $8m payable in 2011 to 
a receivable of $2m in 2012. This is a consequence of the overall 
reduction of borrowings within the Group, a reduction in the 
applicable interest rates and the $7m interest receivable on the 
Bioventus loan note issued following the disposal of the Clinical 
Therapies business.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201247

Current assets
Current assets increased by $64m to $2,144m from $2,080m in 2011. 
The movement relates to the following:

 –  Inventories rose by $42m to $901m in 2012 from $859m in 2011. Of 
this movement, $46m arose on the Healthpoint acquisition and it 
includes $9m relating to favourable currency movements. 

 –  The level of trade and other receivables increased by $28m to 

$1,065m in 2012 from $1,037m in 2011. This movement includes 
$31m arising on the Healthpoint acquisition and $8m related to 
favourable currency movements. 

 –  Cash and cash equivalents have fallen by $6m to $178m from $184m 

in 2011.

Non-current liabilities
Non-current liabilities increased by $406m from $422m in 2011 to 
$828m in 2012. This movement relates to the following items:

 –  Long-term borrowings have risen from $16m in 2011 to $430m in 
2012. This increase of $414m is attributable to the acqusition of 
Healthpoint for $782m cash in December 2012.

 –  The net retirement benefit obligation decreased by $21m to $266m 
in 2012 from $287m in 2011. This was largely due to the Group’s 
additional pension contributions which were partialy offset by net 
actuarial losses for the year.

 –  Deferred acquisition consideration remains at $8m at the end of 
2012. This relates to the acquisition of Tenet Medical Engineering 
during 2011.

 –  Provisions increased from $45m in 2011 to $63m in 2012. The 
pricipal component of this movement is $13m arising on the 
Healthpoint acquisition.

 –  Deferred tax liabilities decreased by $5m in the year.

Current liabilities
Current liabilities decreased by $189m from $1,119m in 2011 to $930m 
in 2012. This movement is attributable to:

 –  Bank overdrafts and current borrowings have decreased by $268m 

from $306m in 2011 to $38m in 2012.

 –  Trade and other payables have increased by $92m to $656m in 2012 

from $564m in 2011. The primary cause of this increase is the 
acqusition of Healthpoint which increased trade and other payables 
by $49m.

 –  Provisions have decreased by $19m from $78m in 2011 to $59m in 
2012. The most significant item contributing to this decrease is the 
payment of $22m to settle the legal provision (see Note 3). 

 –  Current tax payable is $177m at the end of 2012 compared to $171m 

in 2011.

Other finance cost
Other finance costs in 2012 were $3m compared to $6m in 2011. This 
decrease is attributable to an increase in the expected return on 
pension plan assets.

Taxation
The taxation charge increased by $105m to $371m from $266m in 
2011. The rate of tax was 33.7%, compared with 31.4% in 2011.

The tax charge increased by $82m in 2012 (2011 – $17m reduction) 
as result of the profit on disposal of the Clinical Therapies business 
partially offset by an increase in restructuring and rationalisation 
expenses, amortisation of acquisition intangibles and acquisition 
related costs. The tax rate was 29.9% (2011 – 29.9%) after adjusting 
for these items and the tax thereon.

Group balance sheet
The following table sets out certain balance sheet data as at 
31 December of the years indicated:

Non-current assets
Current assets
Assets held for sale
Total assets
Non-current liabilities
Current liabilities
Liabilities directly associated with assets held for sale
Total liabilities
Total equity
Total equity and liabilities

2012 
$m
3,498
2,144
-
5,642
828
930
-
1,758
3,884
5,642

2011 
$m
2,542
2,080
125
4,747
 422
1,119
19
1,560
3,187
4,747

Non-current assets
Non-current assets increased by $956m to $3,498m in 2012 from 
$2,542m in 2011. This is principally attributable to the following:

 –  Goodwill increased by $90m from $1,096m in 2011 to $1,186m in 

2012. Of this movement $73m arose on the acquisition of 
Healthpoint. The balance relates to favourable currency movements 
totalling $17m.

 –  Intangible assets increased by $641m from $423m in 2011 to 

$1,064m in 2012. Intangible assets totalling $662m arose on the 
Healthpoint acquisition. Amortisation of $94m was charged during 
the year and assets with a net book value of $3m were written-off. A 
total of $68m relates to the cost of intellectual property and software 
acquired. The balance relates to favourable currency movements 
totalling $8m.

 –  Property, plant and equipment increased by $10m from $783m in 
2011 to $793m in 2012. Depreciation of $212m was charged during 
2012 and assets with a net book value of $9m were written-off. 
These movements were largely offset by $197m of additions relating 
primarily to instruments and other plant & machinery and $27m of 
additions arising on the Healthpoint acquisition. The balance relates 
to favourable currency movements totalling $7m. 

 –  Deferred tax assets decreased by $59m in the year.

 –  The total investment in associates has increased from $13m in 2011 
to $283m in 2012. This movement predominately relates to the 
acquisition of Bioventus during the year totalling $114m plus $160m 
in the form of a loan note to Bioventus.

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Financial review continued

Total equity
Total equity increased by $697m from $3,187m in 2011 to $3,884m in 
2012. The principal movements were:

1 January 2012
Attributable profit
Currency translation gains
Hedging reserves
Actuarial loss on retirement benefit obligations
Dividends paid during the year
Taxation benefits on Other Comprehensive Income 
and equity items
Net share based transactions
31 December 2012

Total equity 
$m
3,187
729
37
(7)
(13)
(186)

20
117
3,884

2011 Financial highlights
The following table sets out certain income statement data for the 
periods indicated:

Revenue (i)
Cost of goods sold (ii)
Gross profit
Marketing, selling and distribution expenses (iii)
Administrative expenses (iv, v, vi)
Research and development expenses
Operating profit (i)
Net interest payable
Other finance costs
Profit before taxation
Taxation
Attributable profit for the year

2011 
$m

2010 
$m

4,270

3,962

(1,140)

(1,031)

3,130

2,931

(1,526)

(1,414)

(575)

(167)

862

(8)

(6)

848

(266)

582

(446)

(151)

920

(15)

(10)

895

(280)

615

(i) 

(ii) 

 Group revenue and operating profit are derived wholly from continuing operations 
and discussed on a segment basis on pages 22 to 33.
 In 2011, $7m of restructuring and rationalisation expenses were charged to cost of 
goods sold (2010 – $nil).

(iii)   In 2011, no restructuring and rationalisation expenses were charged to marketing, 

selling and distribution expenses (2010 – $3m).

(iv)   2011 includes $42m of amortisation of other intangible assets (2010 – $34m).
(v) 
(vi)   2011 includes $33m of restructuring and rationalisation expenses and $36m 

 2011 includes $23m relating to legal provision (2010 – $nil).

relating to amortisation of acquisition intangibles (2010 – $12m of restructuring 
and rationalisation expenses and $34m relating to amortisation of acquisition 
intangibles).

Revenue
Group revenue increased by $308m (8%) from $3,962m in 2010 to 
$4,270m in 2011. Underlying revenue growth was 4% and 4% growth 
was attributable to favourable currency translation.

Advanced Surgical Devices revenue increased by $201m (7%) 
to $3,251m in 2011 from $3,050m in 2010. The underlying 
revenue growth was 3% with favourable currency movements 
also contributing 4% to the growth in the year. Advanced Wound 
Management revenues increased by $107m (12%), of which 7% was 
attributable to underlying growth and 5% due to favourable currency 
translation.

A more detailed analysis is included within the ‘Revenue’ sections of 
the individual business segments that follow on pages 22 and 33.

Cost of goods sold
Cost of goods sold increased by $109m to $1,140m from $1,031m in 
2010 which represents an 11% increase. Of this movement, 4% is due 
to adverse translation movements leaving an underlying movement 
of 7% compared to an increase in underlying revenue of 4%. The 
residual movement is largely attributable to continued pricing 
pressure across all of the Group’s markets which Smith & Nephew 
was not able to pass on to suppliers and an adverse movement in 
the mix of products sold, towards lower gross margin product.

Further margin analysis is included within the ‘Trading profit’ sections 
of the individual business segments on pages 22 to 33.

Marketing, selling and distribution expenses
Marketing, selling and distribution expenses increased by $112m 
(8%) to $1,526m from $1,414m in 2010. After adjusting for an 
unfavourable currency movement of 3% the underlying movement of 
5% is broadly in line with increased Group revenues.

Administrative expenses
Administrative expenses increased by $129m (29%) to $575m from 
$446m in 2010. Unfavourable currency movements contributed 
towards 5% of this increase. The factors contributing to the 
underlying movement of 24% were; the non-recurrence of the one-
off benefit of $25m arising from the BlueSky settlement in 2010, a 
charge of $23m relating to legal provision, an increase of $21m in 
restructuring and rationalisation expenses, an increase of $12m 
in the bad debt expense and an $8m increase in the amortisation 
charge on intangible assets. Other factors contributing to this 
increase included the additional investment in China and Emerging 
markets during 2011.

Research and development expenses
Expenditure as a percentage of revenue increased by 0.1% to 3.9% in 
2011 (2010 – 3.8%). Actual expenditure was $167m in 2011 compared 
to $151m in 2010. The Group continues to invest in innovative 
technologies and products to differentiate it from competitors.

Operating profit
Operating profit decreased by $58m to $862m from $920m in 2010 
comprising a decrease of $70m in Advanced Surgical Devices, offset 
by an increase of $12m in Advanced Wound Management.

Net interest payable
Net interest payable reduced by $7m from $15m in 2010 to $8m in 
2011. This is a consequence of the overall reduction of borrowings 
within the Group and a reduction in the applicable interest rates.

Other finance cost
Other finance costs in 2011 were $6m compared to $10m in 2010. 
This decrease is attributable to an increase in the expected return on 
pension plan assets.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201249

Taxation
The taxation charge decreased by $14m to $266m from $280m in 
2010. The effective rate of tax was 31.4%, compared with 31.3% in 
2010.

The tax charge was reduced by $17m in 2011 (2010 – $10m) as 
a consequence of restructuring and rationalisation expenses, 
amortisation of acquisition intangibles and legal provision. The 
effective tax rate was 29.9% (2010 – 30.8%) after adjusting for these 
items and the tax thereon.

Group balance sheet
The following table sets out certain balance sheet data as at 
31 December of the years indicated:

Non-current assets
Current assets
Assets held for sale
Total assets
Non-current liabilities
Current liabilities
Liabilities directly associated with assets held for sale
Total liabilities
Total equity
Total equity and liabilities

2011 
$m
2,542
2,080
125
4,747
422
1,119
19
1,560
3,187
4,747

2010 
$m
2,579
2,154
–
4,733
1,046
914
–
1,960
2,773
4,733

Non-current assets
Non-current assets decreased by $37m to $2,542m in 2011 from 
$2,579m in 2010. This is attributable to the following:

 –  Goodwill decreased by $5m from $1,101m in 2010 to $1,096m in 2011. 

Goodwill totalling $37m was transferred to assets held for sale. 
Following the acquisition of Tenet Medical Engineering during 2011, 
an amount of $44m was capitalised as goodwill. The balance relates 
to unfavourable currency movements totalling $12m.

 –  Intangible assets decreased by $3m from $426m in 2010 to $423m 
in 2011. Intangible assets totalling $14m were transferred to assets 
held for sale. Amortisation of $78m was charged during the year and 
assets with a net book value of $2m were written-off. A total of $92m 
relates to the addition of intellectual property and software. The 
balance relates to unfavourable currency movements totalling $1m.

 –  Property, plant and equipment decreased by $4m from $787m in 

2010 to $783m in 2011. Property, plant and equipment totalling $3m 
were transferred to assets held for sale. Depreciation of $217m was 
charged during 2011 and assets with a net book value of $7m were 
written-off. These movements were largely offset by $229m of 
additions relating primarily to instruments and other plant and 
machinery. The balance relates to unfavourable currency 
movements totalling $6m.

 –  Trade and other receivables decreased by $22m to $nil in 2011 from 
$22m in 2010 due to non-current receivables switching to current 
receivables during the year.

 –  Deferred tax assets and other non-current assets decreased by 

$3m in the year.

Current assets
Current assets decreased by $74m to $2,080m from $2,154m 
in 2010.

The movement relates to the following:

 –  Inventories fell by $64m to $859m in 2011 from $923m in 2010. 

Inventories totalling $15m were transferred to assets held for sale. 
Of the remaining movement, $10m related to unfavourable currency 
movements.

 –  The level of trade and other receivables increased by $13m to 

$1,037m in 2011 from $1,024m in 2010. Trade and other receivables 
totalling $49m were transferred to assets held for sale. Of the 
movement in the year, $18m related to unfavourable currency 
movements.

 –  Cash and bank has fallen by $23m to $184m from $207m in 2010. 

Of the movement, $2m related to unfavourable currency movements.

Assets held for sale
Assets held for sale totalling $125m relate to the underlying assets 
of the Clinical Therapies business, the proposed sale of which was 
announced on 4 January 2012 and completed on 4 May 2012.

Non-current liabilities
Non-current liabilities decreased by $624m from $1,046m in 2010 to 
$422m in 2011. This movement relates to the following items:

 –  Long-term borrowings have fallen from $642m in 2010 to $16m in 

2011. This decrease of $626m is mainly attributable to the long-term 
loan repayable in May 2012 switching to a current liability.

 –  The net retirement benefit obligation increased by $25m to $287m 
in 2011 from $262m in 2010. This was largely due to actuarial losses 
of $70m which were only partly offset by pension contributions.

 –  Deferred acquisition consideration was $8m at the end of 2011, 

an increase of $8m from $nil at the end of 2010 as a result of the 
acquisition of Tenet Medical Engineering during the year.

 –  Provisions decreased from $73m in 2010 to $45m in 2011 which 

is largely due to a number of settlements during the year.

 –  Deferred tax liabilities decreased by $3m in the year.

Current liabilities
Current liabilities increased by $205m from $914m in 2010 to $1,119m 
in 2011. This movement is attributable to:

 –  Bank overdrafts and current borrowings have increased by $249m 

from $57m in 2010 to $306m in 2011 mainly as a result of the 
long-term loan repayable in May 2012 switching to a current liability.

 –  Trade and other payables have decreased by $53m to $564m in 
2011 from $617m in 2010. Trade and other payables totalling $19m 
were transferred to liabilities directly associated with assets held for 
sale. An amount of $8m is attributable to favourable currency 
movements.

 –  Provisions have increased by $41m from $37m in 2010 to $78m in 
2011. The most significant item contributing to this increase is the 
$23m legal provision (see Note 3).

 –  Current tax payable is $171m at the end of 2011 compared to $203m 
in 2010. Of the $32m reduction, $1m is attributable to favourable 
currency movements.

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Liabilities directly associated with assets held 
for sale
Liabilities held for sale totalling $19m relate to the underlying liabilities 
of the Clinical Therapies business, the proposed sale of which was 
announced on 4 January 2012 and completed on 4 May 2012.

Total equity
Total equity increased by $414m from $2,773m in 2010 to $3,187m in 
2011. The principal movements were:

1 January 2011
Attributable profit
Currency translation losses
Hedging reserves
Actuarial loss on retirement benefit obligations
Dividends paid during the year
Taxation benefits on Other Comprehensive Income 
and equity items
Net share based transactions
31 December 2011

Total equity 
$m
2,773
582
(36)
14
(70)
(146)

22
48
3,187

Transactional and translational exchange
The Group’s principal markets outside the US are, in order of 
significance, Continental Europe, UK, Australia and Japan. Revenues 
in these markets fluctuate when translated into US Dollars on 
consolidation. During the year, the average rates of exchange against 
the US Dollar used to translate revenues and profits arising in these 
markets changed compared to the previous year as follows: the Euro 
strengthened from $1.39 to $1.28 (+8%), Sterling weakened from 
$1.60 to $1.58 (-1%), the Swiss Franc weakened from $1.13 to $1.07 
(-5%), the Australian Dollar strengthened from $1.03 to $1.04 (1%) and 
the Japanese Yen stayed flat at ¥80.

The Group’s principal manufacturing locations are in the US 
(Advanced Surgical Devices), Switzerland (Advanced Surgical 
Devices), UK (Advanced Wound Management and Advanced 
Surgical Devices) and China (Advanced Surgical Devices and 
Advanced Wound Management). The majority of the Group’s selling 
and distribution subsidiaries around the world purchase finished 
products from these locations. As a result of currency movements 
compared with the previous year, sales from the US became 
relatively less profitable to all of these countries. The Group’s policy 
of purchasing forward a proportion of its currency requirements and 
the existence of an inventory pipeline reduce the short-term impact 
of currency movements.

Financial position, liquidity and capital resources
Cash flow and net debt
The main elements of Group cash flow and movements in net debt 
can be summarised as follows:

Cash generated from operations
Net interest paid
Income taxes paid
Net cash inflow from operating activities

Capital expenditure (net of disposal of 
property, plant and equipment)
Acquisitions (net of cash acquired)
Equity dividends paid
Proceeds from own shares
Issue of ordinary share capital
Treasury shares purchased

Change in net debt from net cash flow (see 
Note 21 of the Notes to the Group accounts)
Exchange adjustment
Opening net debt
Closing net debt

2012 
$m

1,184
(4)
(278)
902

(265)
(782)
(186)
6
77
-

145
5
(138)
(288)

2011 
$m

1,135
(8)
(285)
842

(321)
(33)
(146)
7
17
(6) 

360
(6)
(492)
(138)

2010 
$m

1,111
(17)
(235)
859

(307)
–
(132)
8
15
(5)

438
13
(943)
(492)

Net cash inflow from operating activities
Cash generated from operations in 2012 of $1,184m (2011 – $1,135m, 
2010 – $1,111m) is after paying out $nil (2011 – $3m, 2010 – $5m) 
of macrotextured claim settlements unreimbursed by insurers, 
$3m (2011 – $1m, 2010 – $nil) of acquisition related costs, $55m 
(2011 – $20m, 2010 – $16m) of restructuring and rationalisation 
expenses and $22m (2011 – $nil, 2010 – $nil) relating to a legal 
settlement.

Capital expenditure
The Group’s ongoing capital expenditure and working capital 
requirements were financed through cash flow generated by 
business operations and, where necessary, through short-term 
committed and uncommitted bank facilities. In recent years, capital 
expenditure on tangible and intangible fixed assets represented 
approximately 6% of continuing Group revenue.

In 2012, gross capital expenditure amounted to $265m (2011 – 
$321m, 2010 – $315m). The principal areas of investment were the 
placement of orthopaedic instruments with customers, patents and 
licences, plant and equipment and information technology.

At 31 December 2012, $4m (2011 – $9m, 2010 – $15m) of capital 
expenditure had been contracted but not provided for which will be 
funded from cash inflows.

Acquisitions and disposals
In the three-year period ended 31 December 2012, $815m was 
spent on acquisitions, funded from net debt and cash inflows. This 
comprised, $33m for Tenet Medical Engineering during 2011 and 
$782m for Healthpoint acquired in December 2012. There were no 
acquisitions in 2010.

During 2012 the Group completed the transfer of its Biologics and 
Clinical Therapies business (CT) to Bioventus LCC (‘Bioventus’) for 
total consideration of $367m. As part of this transaction the Group 
paid $104m for 49% of Bioventus and subsequently invested a 
further $10m.

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Liquidity
The Group’s policy is to ensure that it has sufficient funding and 
facilities in place to meet foreseeable borrowing requirements. In 
December 2010, the Group entered into a five-year $1bn multi-
currency revolving facility with an initial interest of 70 basis points 
over LIBOR.

At 31 December 2012, the Group held $178m (2011 – $184m, 2010 
– $207m) in cash and balances at bank. The Group has committed 
and uncommitted facilities of $1.0bn and $0.3bn respectively. 
The undrawn committed facilities totalling $0.6bn expires after two 
but within five years (2011 – $1.0bn expires after two but within five 
years). Smith & Nephew intends to repay the amounts due within 
one year by using available cash and drawing down on the longer-
term facilities. In addition, Smith & Nephew has finance lease 
commitments of $16m (of which $6m extends beyond five years).

The principal variations in the Group’s borrowing requirements result 
from the timing of dividend payments, acquisitions and disposals 
of businesses, timing of capital expenditure and working capital 
fluctuations. Smith & Nephew believes that its capital expenditure 
needs and its working capital funding for 2013, as well as its other 
known or expected commitments or liabilities, can be met from its 
existing resources and facilities. The Group’s net debt decreased 
from $943m at the beginning of 2010 to $288m at the end of 2012, 
representing an overall decrease of $655m. 

The Group’s planned future contributions are considered adequate 
to cover the current underfunded position in the Group’s defined 
benefit plans.

Further disclosure regarding borrowings, related covenants and the 
liquidity risk exposures is set out in Note 15 of the Notes to the Group 
accounts. The Group believes that its borrowing facilities do not 
contain restrictions that would have significant impact on its funding 
or investment policy for the foreseeable future.

Going concern
The Group’s business activities, together with the factors likely to 
affect its future development, performance and position are set 
out in the ‘Financial review and principal risks’ section on pages 54 
to 55. The financial position of the Group, its cash flows, liquidity 
position and borrowing facilities are described under ‘Financial 
position, liquidity and capital resources’ within the ‘Financial review’ 
section set out on page 50. In addition, the notes to the financial 
statements include the Group’s objectives, policies and processes 
for managing its capital; its financial risk management objectives; 
details of its financial instruments and hedging activities; and its 
exposure to credit risk and liquidity risk.

The Group has considerable financial resources and its customers 
and suppliers are diversified across different geographic areas. 
As a consequence, the Directors believe that the Group is well 
placed to manage its business risk successfully despite the ongoing 
uncertain economic outlook.

The Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Group has 
adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the 
foreseeable future. Thus they continue to adopt the going concern 
basis for accounting in preparing the annual financial statements.

Management also believes that the Group has sufficient working 
capital for its present requirements.

Payment policies
It is the Group’s and Company’s policy to ensure that suppliers are 
paid within agreed terms. At the year-end the Company had no trade 
creditors.

Factors affecting Smith & Nephew’s 
results of operations 
Government economic, fiscal, monetary and political policies are all 
factors that materially affect the Group’s operation or investments 
of shareholders. Other factors include sales trends, currency 
fluctuations and innovation. Each of these factors is discussed 
further in the ‘Marketplace and Business Segment review’ on pages 
19 to 33 and ‘Taxation information for shareholders’ on pages 154  
to 155.

Critical accounting policies
The Group’s significant accounting policies are set out in Notes 1 to 
24 of the Notes to the Group accounts. Of those, the policies which 
require the most use of management’s judgment are as follows:

Inventories
A feature of the Advanced Surgical Devices division (whose finished 
goods inventory makes up approximately 83% of the Group total 
finished goods inventory) is the high level of product inventory 
required, some of which is located at customer premises and is 
available for customers’ immediate use. Complete sets of product, 
including large and small sizes, have to be made available in this 
way. These sizes are used less frequently than standard sizes and 
towards the end of the product life cycle are inevitably in excess of 
requirements. Adjustments to carrying value are therefore required 
to be made to orthopaedic inventory to anticipate this situation. 
These adjustments are calculated in accordance with a formula 
based on levels of inventory compared with historical usage. This 
formula is applied on an individual product line basis and is first 
applied when a product group has been on the market for two years. 
This method of calculation is considered appropriate based on 
experience, but it does involve management judgments on customer 
demand, effectiveness of inventory deployment, length of product 
lives, phase-out of old products and efficiency of manufacturing 
planning systems.

Impairment
In carrying out impairment reviews of goodwill, intangible assets and 
property, plant and equipment, a number of significant assumptions 
have to be made when preparing cash flow projections. These 
include the future rate of market growth, discount rates, the market 
demand for the products acquired, the future profitability of acquired 
businesses or products, levels of reimbursement and success 
in obtaining regulatory approvals. If actual results should differ or 
changes in expectations arise, impairment charges may be required 
which would adversely impact operating results.

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Retirement benefits
A number of key judgments have to be made in calculating the 
fair value of the Group’s defined benefit pension plans. These 
assumptions impact the Balance Sheet liability, operating profit 
and other finance income/costs. The most critical assumptions 
are the discount rate and mortality assumptions to be applied 
to future pension plan liabilities. For example as of 31 December 
2012, a 0.5% increase in discount rate would have reduced the 
combined UK and US pension plan deficit by $28m whilst a 0.5% 
decrease would have increased the combined deficit by $33m. A 
0.5% increase in discount rate would have decreased profit before 
taxation by $1m whilst a 0.5% decrease would have increased it 
by $1m. A one-year increase in the assumed life expectancy of the 
average 60 year old male pension plan member in both the UK and 
US would have increased the combined deficit by $23m. In making 
these judgments, management takes into account the advice of 
professional external actuaries and benchmarks its assumptions 
against external data.

The discount rate is determined by reference to market yields on 
high quality corporate bonds, with currency and term consistent with 
those of the liabilities. In particular for the UK and US, the discount 
rate is derived by reference to an AA yield curve derived by the 
Group’s actuarial advisers.

See Note 19 of the Notes to the Group accounts for a summary of 
how the assumptions selected in the last five years have compared 
with actual results.

Contingencies and provisions
The recognition of provisions for legal disputes is subject to 
a significant degree of estimation. Provision is made for loss 
contingencies when it is considered probable that an adverse 
outcome will occur and the amount of the loss can be reasonably 
estimated. In making its estimates, management takes into account 
the advice of internal and external legal counsel. Provisions are 
reviewed regularly and amounts updated where necessary to 
reflect developments in the disputes. The ultimate liability may 
differ from the amount provided depending on the outcome 
of court proceedings or settlement negotiations or if new facts come 
to light.

The group operates in numerous tax jurisdictions around the 
world. Although it is group policy to submit its tax returns to the 
relevant tax authorities as promptly as possible, at any given time 
the group has unagreed years outstanding and is involved in 
disputes and tax audits. Significant issues may take several years to 
resolve. In estimating the probability and amount of any tax charge, 
management takes into account the views of internal and external 
advisers and updates the amount of provision whenever necessary. 
The ultimate tax liability may differ from the amount provided 
depending on interpretations of tax law, settlement negotiations 
or changes in legislation.

Legal proceedings
The Company and its subsidiaries are parties to various legal 
proceedings, some of which include claims for substantial damages. 
The outcome of these proceedings cannot readily be foreseen, but 
management believes none of them are likely to result in a material 
adverse effect on the financial position of the Group. The Group 
provides for outcomes that are deemed to be probable and can be 
reliably estimated. There is no assurance that losses will not exceed 
the provision or will not have a significant impact on the Group’s 
results of operations or financial condition in the period in which 
they are realised.

Product liability claims
In August 2003, the Group withdrew voluntarily from all markets the 
macrotextured versions of its Oxinium femoral knee components. 

A number of related claims have been filed, most of which have 
been settled. The aggregate cost at 31 December 2012 related to 
this matter is approximately $214m. The Group has sought recovery 
from its primary and excess insurers for costs of resolving the claims. 
The primary insurance carrier has paid $60m in full settlement of its 
policy liability. However, the excess carriers have denied coverage, 
citing defences relating to the wording of the insurance policies and 
other matters. In December 2004, the Group brought suit against 
them in the US district court for the Western District of Tennessee, 
and trial is expected to commence in 2014. An additional $22m was 
received in 2007 from a successful settlement with a third party.

A charge of $154m was recorded in 2004 for anticipated expenses in 
connection with macrotexture claims. Most of that amount has since 
been applied to settlements of such claims. Management believes 
that the $17m provision remaining is adequate to cover remaining 
claims. Given the uncertainty inherent in such matters, there can be 
no assurance on this point.

The Group faces other claims from time to time for alleged defects 
in its products and has on occasion recalled or withdrawn products 
to minimise risk of harm or claims. Such claims are endemic to the 
orthopaedic device industry. The group maintains product liability 
insurance subject to limits and deductibles that management 
believes are reasonable.

Currently, there is heightened concern about possible adverse 
effects of hip implant products with metal-on-metal bearing surfaces 
and the Group expects to incur expenses to defend claims in this 
area. The Group takes care to monitor the clinical evidence relating 
to its metal hip implant products and ensure that its product offerings 
and training are designed to serve patients’ interests.

Business practice investigations
In March 2005 the US attorney’s office in Newark, New Jersey 
issued subpoenas to the five largest sellers of hip and knee implants 
to US orthopaedic surgeons, including the Group’s orthopaedic 
business, asking for information regarding arrangements with 
orthopaedic reconstructive surgeons. In September 2007, the Group 
(and the other four companies involved) settled the charges that 
could have resulted from this investigation, without admitting any 
wrongdoing as part of the settlement. At the same time, the Group 
entered into a Corporate Integrity Agreement (‘CIA’) with the Office 
of the Inspector General (‘OIG’) of the US Department of Health 
and Human Services which requires certain compliance efforts. 
This agreement was for a five-year term.

On 11 December 2012 the OIG notified the group that it had 
met its CIA requirements and that the five-year term of the CIA 
had concluded.

In September 2007, the SEC notified the Group that it was 
conducting an informal investigation of companies in the medical 
devices industry, including the Group, regarding possible violations 
of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (‘FCPA’) in connection with 
the sale of products in certain countries outside of the US. The US 
Department of Justice (‘DOJ’) subsequently joined the SEC’s request. 

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201253

On 6 February 2012, Smith & Nephew announced that it had 
reached settlement with the SEC and DOJ in connection with this 
matter. Smith & Nephew has paid slightly less than $23m in fines 
and profit disgorgement and committed to maintain an enhanced 
compliance programme and appoint an independent monitor for at 
least 18 months to review and report on its compliance programme to 
both the SEC and DOJ. The settlement agreements impose detailed 
reporting, compliance and other requirements on Smith & Nephew 
for a three-year term. Failure to comply with these requirements, 
or any other violation of law, could have severe consequences 
for the Group.

Intellectual property disputes
The Group is engaged, as both plaintiff and defendant, in litigation 
with various competitors and others over claims of patent 
infringement and other intellectual property matters. These disputes 
are being heard in courts in the United States and other jurisdictions 
and also before agencies that examine patents. Outcomes are rarely 
certain and costs are often significant.

From the Group’s entry into the negative pressure wound therapy 
business in 2007, Kinetic Concepts, Inc. (‘KCI’) pursued claims of 
patent infringement against the Group in the US, UK, Germany 
and other jurisdictions, asserting both its own patents and others 
exclusively licensed to KCI by Wake Forest University. During the 
course of 2012, the Group reached agreements with KCI and Wake 
Forest to resolve all pending claims. 

The Group has twice won jury verdicts in the US district court for 
Oregon against Arthrex Inc. for infringement of the Group’s patents 
relating to suture anchors. Judgement was entered in favour of the 
Group after the first verdict but reversed on appeal and remanded 
for a new trial. The verdict in the new trial was overturned by the 
district court but then (in January 2013) reinstated on appeal.

Other matters
In April 2009, the Group was served with a subpoena by the US 
Department of Justice in Massachusetts requiring the production 
of documents from 1995 to 2009 associated with the marketing 
and sale of the Group’s EXOGEN bone growth stimulator. Similar 
subpoenas have been served on a number of competitors in 
the bone growth stimulator market. Around the same time a qui 
tam or ‘whistleblower’ complaint concerning the industry’s sales 
and marketing of those products, originally filed in 2005 against 
the primary manufacturers of bone growth stimulation products 
(including Smith & Nephew), was unsealed in federal court in 
Boston, Massachusetts. A motion to dismiss that complaint was 
denied in December 2010.

The Group is subject to country of origin requirements under the 
US Buy American and Trade Agreements Acts with regard to sales 
to certain US government customers. The Group has voluntarily 
disclosed to the US Veterans Administration and the US Department 
of Defense that a small percentage of the products sold to the US 
government in the past, primarily from the orthopaedics business, 
may have originated from countries that are not eligible for such 
sales except with government consent. Government auditors 
subsequently conducted an on-site visit at the Group’s orthopaedics 
business. In December 2008, three months after Smith & Nephew’s 
initial voluntary disclosure, a whistleblower suit was filed in the US 
district court for the Western district of Tennessee alleging these 
violations. Smith & Nephew’s motion to dismiss the suit was denied 
in November 2010.

Outlook and trend information
The discussion below contains certain forward-looking statements 
that may or may not prove accurate. For example, statements 
regarding expected revenue growth and trading margins, market 
trends and our product pipeline are forward-looking statements. 
Phrases such as ‘aim’, ‘plan’, ‘intend’, ‘anticipate’, ‘well placed’, 
‘believe’, ‘estimate’, ‘target’, ‘consider’, and similar expressions 
are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. 
Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and 
uncertainties and other important factors that could cause actual 
results to differ materially from those projected in forward-looking 
statements. For Smith & Nephew, these factors include: economic 
and financial conditions in the markets we serve, especially those 
affecting healthcare providers, payors and customers; price levels 
for established and innovative medical devices; developments in 
medical technology; regulatory approvals; reimbursement decisions 
or other government actions; products defects or recalls; litigation 
relating to patent or other claims; legal compliance risks and 
related investigative, remedial or enforcement actions; strategic 
actions, including acquisitions and depositions and our success in 
integrating acquired businesses; and numerous other matters which 
affect us or our markets, including those of a political, economic 
business or competitive nature.

Additional information on factors that could cause the Group’s 
actual results to differ from estimates reflected in these forward-
looking statements, can be found under ‘Principal risks and risk 
management’ section on pages 54 to 55.

Information regarding the recent and longer term market growth 
trends is given for each of the Group’s divisions in the relevant 
‘Market and competition’ sections under ‘Business segment reviews’ 
on pages 22 to 33.

Smith & Nephew expects the market conditions seen in 2012 
broadly to continue in 2013. 

During 2013, the Group expects to maintain its excellent record in 
Advanced Wound Management and again grow at above the market 
rate. 

Trauma and Extremities are expected to continue to build upon 
recent investments and grow slightly ahead of the market rate.

In Sports Medicine, the Group anticipates growing at around the 
market rate, with a stronger finish to the year, as new products are 
introduced in the second half of 2013.

Orthopaedic Reconstruction is likely to grow more slowly than the 
market, reflecting the Group’s position in the product cycle and 
the metal-on-metal headwinds, albeit with performance improving 
throughout the year as we realise the benefits of recent and planned 
product launches.

The Group exceeded its trading profit margin expectation for 2012 
and remains focused on creating a business capable of delivering a 
sustainable 24% margin. 

During 2013, the Group expects further benefits will be gained from 
our efficiency programme and will continue investing for growth. The 
first effects of the US Medical Device excise tax and the Healthpoint 
acquisition, which is initially dilutive to the Group margin, will be seen 
in 2013. Taking all these factors together, our trading profit margin in 
2013 is expected to be below the 23.3% achieved in 2012.

Smith & Nephew exited 2012 with a much stronger platform than we 
entered the year. In 2013 we will continue to focus on our Strategic 
Priorities to deliver greater value for our Company and stakeholders.

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Principal risks and risk management

As an integral part of planning and review, Group and business 
area management seek to identify the significant risks involved 
in the business, and to review the risk management action plans 
for those risks. The Group Risk Committee, which is comprised of 
the CEO and senior executives, meets twice a year to review the 
risks identified by the businesses and corporate functions and any 
risk management actions being taken. As appropriate, the Risk 

Committee may re-categorise risks or require further information on 
the risk management action plans. The Risk Committee reports to the 
Board on an annual basis detailing all principal risks. In addition, the 
Board considers risk as part of the development of strategy. Internal 
audit reviews and reports on the effectiveness of the operation of the 
risk management process.

Risk
Disruptive 
technologies

Context
The medical devices industry has a rapid rate of new product 
introduction. The Group must be adept at monitoring the landscape for 
technological advances, make good investment/acquisition choices, 
have an efficient and valuable product development pipeline and secure 
protection for its intellectual property.

Specific risks we face
 –  Competitors may introduce a disruptive technology, 
or obtain patents or other intellectual property rights, 
that affect the Group’s competitive position

 –  Claims by third parties regarding infringement of their 

intellectual property rights

 –  Lack of innovation due to low R&D investment, R&D 

skills gap or poor product development execution for 
established and emerging markets

 –  Failure to successfully commercialise a pipeline 
product, or failure to receive regulatory approval

Government 
action, 
pricing and 
reimbursement  
pressure

In most markets throughout the world, expenditure on medical devices 
is controlled to a large extent by governments, many of which are facing 
increasingly intense budgetary constraints. The Group is therefore largely 
dependent on governments providing increased funds commensurate 
with the increased demand arising from demographic trends. 
Reimbursement rates may be set in response to perceived economic 
value of the devices, based on clinical and other data relating to cost, 
patient outcomes and comparative effectiveness. Political upheaval in 
the countries where the Group operates or surrounding regions could 
adversely affect Group operations or turnover.

Group operations are affected by transactional exchange rate 
movements. The Group’s manufacturing cost base is situated in the 
US, UK, China and Switzerland and finished products are exported 
worldwide.

 –  Reduced reimbursement levels and increasing 

pricing pressures

 – Reduced demand for elective surgery

 – Increased focus on health economics

 –  Government policies favouring lower priced products

 –  Political upheavals prevent selling of products, 

receiving remittances of profit from a member of the 
Group or future investments in that country

 –  The Group is exposed to fluctuations in exchange 
rates. If the manufacturing country currencies 
strengthen against the selling currencies, the trading 
margin may be affected

 –  Economic downturn impacts demand and collections

Supply,  
system and site 
disruption

Unexpected events could disrupt the business by affecting either a key 
facility or system or a large number of employees. The business is also 
reliant on certain key suppliers of raw materials, components, finished 
products and packaging materials.

 –  Catastrophe could render one of the Group’s 

production facilities out of action

 –  A significant event could impact key leadership or a 

large number of employees

Product safety,  
regulation, and 
litigation

National regulatory authorities enforce a complex series of laws and 
regulations that govern the design, development, approval, manufacture, 
labelling, marketing and sale of healthcare products. They also review 
data supporting the safety and efficacy of such products and may also 
inspect for compliance with appropriate standards, including those 
relating to Quality Management Systems (‘QMS’) or Good Manufacturing 
Practice (‘GMP’) regulations.

 –  Issues with a single source supplier of a key 

component and failure to secure critical supply

 –  A severe IT fault could disable critical systems

 –  Non-compliance with product regulations and 
standards could result in fines, penalties, and 
prosecutions

 –  Product defect could result in lost sales and inventory 

write-offs

 – Third party liability claims

 – Damage to reputation

Compliance  
with laws  
and regulations

Business practices in the healthcare industry are subject to increasing 
scrutiny by government authorities. The trend in many countries is 
towards increased enforcement activity. The Group is also subject to 
increased regulation of personal information. Acquisitions and expansion 
into Emerging markets could also pose additional compliance risks.

 –  Violation of healthcare, data privacy or anti-corruption 
laws could result in fines, loss of reimbursement and 
impact reputation

 –  Serious breaches could potentially prevent the Group 

from doing business in a certain market

 –  Failure to conduct adequate due diligence or to 

integrate appropriate internal controls into acquired 
businesses could result in fines and impact return 
on investment

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201255

There are known and unknown risks and uncertainties relating to 
Smith & Nephew’s business. The table below provides an overview 
of what the Board considers the most significant risks that could 
cause the Group’s business, financial position and results of 
operations to differ materially and adversely from expected and 

historical levels, and how these risks relate to the Group’s strategic 
priorities. In addition, other factors not listed here that Smith & Nephew 
cannot presently identify or does not believe to be equally significant, 
could also materially adversely affect Smith & Nephew’s business, 
financial position or results of operations.

Possible impacts
 –  Loss of market share, 
profit and long-term 
growth

Risk Management actions
 –  Increasing productivity, prioritisation and allocation of R&D funds

Link to strategic priority 
 – Innovate for value

 –  Increasing R&D investment in order to enhance clinical capability, invest 

 –  Simplify and improve our operating model

in biomaterials

 –  Strengthen intellectual property rights and support an Emerging Market 

 –  Supplement the organic growth through acquisitions

portfolio

 –  Business development to augment the portfolio

 –  Increasing speed to market of new products

 –  Loss of revenue, profit  

 –  Develop innovative economic product and service solutions for both 

 –  Simplify and improve our operating model 

and cash flows

Established and Emerging markets

Established markets

 –  Incorporate health economic component into design and development 

 – Innovate for value

of new products

 –  Enhanced expertise supporting reimbursement strategy and guidance

 –  Optimise cost to serve to protect margins and liberate funds for 

investment

 – Streamline COGS, SKUs, and inventory management

 –  The Group transacts forward foreign currency commitments when firm 
purchase orders are placed to reduce exposure to currency fluctuations

 –  Loss of revenue, profit  

 –  Ensure crisis response/business continuity plans at all major facilities 

 –  Simplify and improve our operating model

and cash flows

and for key products

 – Established markets

 –  Audit programme for critical suppliers and second sources or increased 

inventories for critical components

 – Implement enhanced travel security and protection programme

 –  IT disaster and data recovery plans are in place and support overall 

business continuity plans

 –  Loss of profit and 

 – Enhanced leadership and resources

 –  Simplify and improve our operating model

reduction in share price

 –  Negative impact on 
brand/reputation

 – Standardise the Group’s quality management and practice

 – Innovate for value

 – Maintain auditing programmes to assure compliance

 –  Group-wide practices to drive design, and production line performance 

and dependability

 – Post launch review of product safety and complaint data

 –  Loss of profit and 

 – Strong compliance expertise and infrastructure

 –  Simplify and improve our operating model

reduction  
in share price

 –  Negative impact on 
brand/reputation

 –  Code of Conduct/Global Policies and Procedures (‘GPPs’) providing 

 – Emerging markets

controls for significant compliance risks

 –  Training and e-resources to guide employees and third parties with 

compliance responsibilities

 – Monitoring and auditing programmes to verify implementation

 –  Independent reporting channels for employees and third parties to 

report concerns with confidentiality

 –  Due diligence reviews and integration plans required for acquisitions

 – Established markets

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6 Corporate Governance

Ethics and compliance are at the heart 
of everything we do, and underline our 
commitment to strong Governance. We 
believe effective Governance requires 
both leadership and collaboration.

Governance introduction 

Our Board of Directors 

Our Executive Officers 

Corporate Governance Statement 

Directors’ Remuneration Report 

57

58

60

62

74

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
Governance introduction

5757

Dear Shareholder,
I am pleased to present the Corporate Governance Statement for 2012. 
Before we get into the technical detail of specific corporate goverance 
requirements, I wanted to highlight the governance areas we have focused 
on in 2012.

Board changes
We have continued to make changes to our Board throughout the year. As 
you will have read elsewhere in this Annual Report, we are delighted that 
Julie Brown has joined us as Chief Financial Officer on 4 February 2013. She 
will continue to build on the strong foundations laid by Adrian Hennah who 
left the Board on 31 December 2012. Adrian has contributed enormously to 
the success of the Company over the past six years and we are sorry to see 
him leave but wish him well in his future career.

We have also made a number of changes to our Non-Executive team. On 
12 April 2012, Rolf Stomberg left the Board following 14 years’ service as a 
Non-Executive Director, during which time he served periods as Senior 
Independent Director and Chairman of the Remuneration Committee. On 
1 November 2012, Geneviève Berger left the Board owing to other time 
commitments. During the year, we were pleased to welcome Ajay Piramal 
to the Board on 1 January 2012 and Baroness Bottomley on 12 April 2012. 
Finally, we shall be appointing Michael Friedman to the Board in April. These 
three new appointments reflect the changing focus of the Group, as we build 
a Board that will take us into the future. Ajay brings experience of Emerging 
markets and Baroness Bottomley brings her knowledge and experience 
of European public healthcare systems whilst Michael Friedman brings 
exceptional experience of the US Healthcare market. These are all areas vital 
to our future growth and prospects.

Ethics and compliance
Ethics and compliance remain at the very heart of our business and 
everything that we do. The independent monitor appointed to review our 
efforts recognised and supported the enhancements we have made over 
the past five years to our ethics and compliance programme, whilst making 
some very valuable suggestions about further improvements in what is a 
constantly evolving aspect of our business. We continue to remain vigilant in 
these areas and the Ethics & Compliance Committee of the Board sets the 
tone at the top in overseeing our ethics and compliance programme, which 
pervades the entire organisation.

Nomination & Governance Committee
In recognition of all the external developments in corporate governance, we 
have expanded the remit of the Nominations Committee to cover governance 
matters and to rename the committee, the Nomination & Governance 
Committee. For some time the Committee has considered certain 
governance matters such as the independence of Non-Executive Directors, 
diversity and the Board Evaluation process. This change of remit formalises 
the role of the Committee, which now includes Board succession planning, 
independence of Non-Executive Directors, diversity, conflicts of interest, 
oversight of the effective governance of the Board and its committees, the 
Board Evaluation process, the induction of new directors and directors 
training in general, as well as keeping abreast of external governance 
activities.

Review of the Board’s Effectiveness
Having conducted our own internal evaluation of the Board’s effectiveness in 
2010 and 2011, we asked Independent Audit to facilitate the review process 
in 2012. This took the form of a series of interviews with each member 
of the Board, the Company Secretary and other members of the senior 
management team who interact with our Board. Independent Audit also 
reviewed the Board and Committee papers over the past year and observed 
our December Board meeting. Their comments and observations gave us a 
useful perspective into the way we operate as a Board. You can read more 
about this review in the statement that follows. A key takeaway for us was the 
need to give even greater focus to succession at Board level. 

As ever, whilst we recognise the importance of sound governance, we are 
continually focused on the Board’s responsibility to promote the long-term 
success of the Company for the benefit of customers, employees and 
shareholders.

Sir John Buchanan
Chairman
20 February 2013

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Our Board of Directors

Our Board has the depth and breadth of experience 
necessary to help the business take full advantage 
of the opportunities and challenges ahead.

1

5

9

Board Gender
A  Male 
B  Female 

8
3

B

Board Committee Membership

1 Sir John Buchanan
2 Olivier Bohuon
3 Julie Brown
4 Ian Barlow
5 Baroness Bottomley
6 Richard De Schutter
7 Michael Friedman
8 Pamela Kirby
9 Brian Larcombe
10 Joseph Papa
11 Ajay Piramal

2

6

10

A

Audit

•

•

•
•

4

8

3

7

11

Board Nationality
A  American 
B  British 
C  French 
D  Indian 
E  New Zealand 

3
5
1
1
1

D

C

E

A

Balance of Non-Executive  
and Executive Directors
A  Chairman 
B   Executive 
Director 

2

1

C   Non-Executive 

Director 

8

A

B

B

C

Ethics & 
Compliance

Remuneration 

Nomination & 
Governance
•
•

•

•

•

•

•

•
•

•
•
•

Susan Swabey (51)
Company Secretary
Susan was appointed Company Secretary in May 
2009. She has nearly 30 years’ experience as a 
company secretary in a wide range of companies 
including Prudential plc, Amersham plc and RMC 
Group plc. Her work has covered Board support, 
corporate governance, corporate transactions, share 
registration, listing obligations, corporate social 
responsibility, pensions, insurance and employee 
and executive share plans. Susan is a member of 
the GC100 Group Executive Committee and the CBI 
Companies Committee and is a frequent speaker on 
corporate governance related matters.

Nationality
British

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
1 Sir John Buchanan (69)
Chairman
Sir John was appointed Independent Non-Executive 
Director in 2005 and was appointed Chairman 
and Chairman of the Nominations Committee in 
April 2006 (now the Nomination & Governance 
Committee).

Sir John has broad international experience gained in 
large and complex international businesses. He has 
substantial experience in the petroleum industry and 
knowledge of the international investor community. 
He has held various leadership roles in strategic, 
financial, operational and marketing positions, 
including executive experience in different countries. 
He is a former Executive Director and Group Financial 
Officer of BP, serving on the BP Board for six years 
until 2003.

Other Directorships
 – Chairman of ARM Holdings plc
 – Senior Independent Director of BHP Billiton Plc
 –  Chairman of International Chamber of Commerce 

(UK) Limited

 –  Chairman of UK Trustees for the Christchurch 

Earthquake appeal

Nationality
British/New Zealand

2 Olivier Bohuon (54)
Chief Executive Officer
Olivier joined the Board and was appointed Chief 
Executive Officer in April 2011. He is a member of the 
Nomination & Governance Committee.

Olivier has had extensive international and 
leadership experience within a number of 
pharmaceutical and healthcare companies. Prior to 
joining Smith & Nephew, he was President of Abbott 
Pharmaceuticals, a division of Abbott Laboratories 
based in the US, where he was responsible 
for the entire business, including R&D, Global 
Manufacturing and global support functions.

Other Directorships
 – Non-Executive Director of Virbac Group
Nationality
French

3 Julie Brown (50)
Chief Financial Officer
Julie joined the Board on 4 February 2013 as Chief 
Financial Officer. Julie is a Chartered Accountant and 
Fellow of the Institute of Taxation with international 
experience and a deep understanding of the 
healthcare sector. She trained with KPMG and then 
worked for AstraZeneca plc, where she served as 
Vice President Group Finance, and more recently, as 
Interim Chief Financial Officer. Prior to that she was 
Regional Vice President Latin America, Marketing 
Company President AstraZeneca Portugal and Vice 
President Corporate Strategy and R&D Chief Financial 
Officer. She has previously held Vice President 
Finance positions in all areas of the healthcare value 
chain including Commercial, Operations, R&D and 
Business Development. 

Nationality
British

4 Ian Barlow (61)
Independent Non-Executive Director  
Chairman of the Audit Committee
Ian was appointed Non-Executive Director in March 
2010 and Chairman of the Audit Committee in May 
2010. 

Ian is a Chartered Accountant and has had 
considerable financial experience both 
internationally and in the UK. Prior to his retirement 
in 2008, he was a Partner at KPMG, latterly Senior 
Partner, London. During his career with KPMG, he 
was Head of their UK tax and legal operations, and 
he acted as Lead Partner for many large international 
organisations operating extensively in North 
America, Europe and Asia.

Other Directorships
 –  Lead Non-Executive Director chairing the Board of 

Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs

 –  Non-Executive Director of The Brunner Investment 

Trust

 – Chairman of The Racecourse Association
Nationality
British

5 The Rt Hon Baroness Bottomley of 
Nettlestone DL (64)
Independent Non-Executive Director 
Baroness Bottomley was appointed Non-Executive 
Director on 12 April 2012.

Baroness Bottomley has extensive experience and 
understanding of healthcare. She was appointed a 
Life Peer in 2005 following her career as a Member 
of Parliament between 1984 and 2005 and served 
successively as Secretary of State for Health and then 
National Heritage. She holds a number of positions 
within the public and private healthcare sector. 

Other Directorships
 – Director of International Resources Group Limited
 –  Member of the International Advisory Board of 

Chugai Pharmaceutical Company Limited

 – Chancellor of University of Hull 
 – Pro Chancellor of the University of Surrey 
 – Governor of the London School of Economics 
 – Trustee of The Economist
Nationality
British

6 Richard De Schutter (72)
Senior Independent Non-Executive Director
Richard was appointed Non-Executive Director in 
January 2001 and Senior Independent Director in 
April 2011. 

Richard has had extensive US corporate experience 
at Chief Executive and Chairman level in a number 
of major corporations with primarily a scientific, 
chemical, engineering or pharmaceutical focus 
including G.D. Searle & Co., Monsanto Company, 
Pharmacia Corporation and DuPont Pharmaceuticals 
Company.

Other Directorships
 – Non-Executive Chairman of Incyte Corporation
 –  Non-Executive Director of Durata Therapeutics, Inc. 
 – Non-Executive Director of Navicure, Inc.
 –  Non-Executive Director of Sprout Pharmaceuticals
 – Non-Executive Director of Celtic Therapeutics
Nationality
American

7 Michael A Friedman (69)
Independent Non-Executive Director
Michael will be appointed Non-Executive Director 
in April 2013 and will immediately offer himself to 
shareholders for re-election.

Michael has been Chief Executive Officer of City of 
Hope, the prestigious cancer research and treatment 
institution in California. He also serves as director of 
the institution’s comprehensive cancer centre and 
holds the Irell & Manella Cancer Center Director’s 
Distinguished Chair. He was formerly senior vice 
president of research, medical and public policy for 
Pharmacia Corporation and has served as Deputy 
Commissioner and Acting Commissioner at the US 
Food and Drug Administration. He has also served 
on a number of Boards in a Non-Executive capacity, 
including RiteAid Corporation.

Other Directorships
 – Chief Executive Officer of City of Hope
 – Non-Executive Director of Celgene Corporation
 – Non-Executive Director of MannKind Corporation
Nationality
American

5959

8 Pamela Kirby (59)
Independent Non-Executive Director  
Chairman of the Ethics & Compliance Committee
Pamela was appointed Non-Executive Director 
in March 2002 and Chairman of the Ethics & 
Compliance Committee in April 2011. 

Pamela has extensive commercial and product 
development experience within the international 
pharmaceutical and healthcare industry. Her last 
executive position was Chief Executive of Quintiles 
Transnational Corp. in the US, having previously 
held senior positions in various pharmaceutical 
companies including AstraZeneca and F. Hoffmann-
La Roche. She is now a Non-Executive Director of a 
number of international companies.

Other Directorships
 – Non-Executive Chairman of Scynexis, Inc.
 – Non-Executive Director of Informa plc
 – Non-Executive Director of Victrex plc
 –  Non-Executive Member of the Board of Simmons & 

Simmons LLP

Nationality
British

9 Brian Larcombe (59)
Independent Non-Executive Director
Brian was appointed Non-Executive Director in 
March 2002. Brian spent his career in private equity 
with 3i Group. After leading the UK investment 
business for a number of years, he became Finance 
Director and then Chief Executive of the Group 
following its flotation. He is well known in the City and 
has held a number of Non-Executive Directorships.

Other Directorships
 –  Non-Executive Director of gategroup Holding AG
 –  Non-Executive Director of Incisive Media Holdings 

Limited
Nationality
British

10 Joseph Papa (57)
Independent Non-Executive Director  
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee
Joseph was appointed Non-Executive Director in 
August 2008 and Chairman of the Remuneration 
Committee in April 2011. 

Joseph has had nearly 30 years’ experience in the 
pharmaceutical industry working for a number of 
companies both in the US and Switzerland. He is now 
Chairman and Chief Executive of Perrigo, one of the 
largest over the counter pharmaceutical companies 
in the US, having held senior positions at Novartis, 
Cardinal Health, Inc. and Pharmacia Corporation.

Other Directorships
 –  Chairman and Chief Executive of Perrigo Company
Nationality
American

11 Ajay Piramal (57)
Independent Non-Executive Director
Ajay was appointed Non-Executive Director on 
1 January 2012. Ajay is one of India’s most respected 
businessmen. He enabled the Piramal Group to 
transform from a textile-centric group to a US$2.0bn 
conglomerate in diversified areas. He has extensive 
industry and market knowledge and international 
experience. He has held a number of global healthcare 
leadership positions in both India and internationally.

Other Directorships
 –  Chairman of Piramal Enterprises Limited, Piramal 

Glass Limited, Allergan India Pvt. Limited, IndiaREIT 
Fund Advisers Pvt. Limited and Director of DB Corp. 
Limited

 –  Chairman of the Board of Governors of Indian 

Institute of Technology, Indore

 –  Member of the Board of Dean’s Advisers at Harvard 

Business School

 – Chairman of Pratham India
Nationality
Indian

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Our Executive Officers

Olivier Bohuon is supported in the day-to-day 
management of the Group by a strong team of 
Executive Officers:

3

7

4

8

1

5

9

2

6

10

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012Smith & Nephew Annual Report 20126161

9 Ros Rivaz (57)
Chief Technology Officer
Joined Smith & Nephew in November 2011. She is 
responsible for manufacturing, supply chain and 
procurement, IT systems, Corporate Sustainability 
and Regulatory and Quality Affairs and is focused on 
improving efficiency in Smith & Nephew processes. 
She is based in London.

Previous Experience
Ros has held senior management positions in 
global companies in the areas of supply chain 
management, logistics, manufacturing, procurement 
and systems, including, ExxonMobil, ICI, Tate & Lyle 
and Diageo. She has 30 years’ experience across all 
areas of operational excellence.

Nationality
British

10 Roger Teasdale (45)
President, Advanced Wound Management
Joined Smith & Nephew in 1989 within the Wound 
Management business. He was appointed President 
of Advanced Wound Management in May 2009. He 
is based in Hull, UK.

Previous Experience
Roger has held a number of key roles within the 
Smith & Nephew Group in both the UK and the 
US and has been responsible for leading the 
transformation of the wound business in recent 
years.

Nationality
British

1 Julie Brown (50)
Chief Financial Officer
Julie joined the Board on 4 February 2013 as Chief 
Financial Officer. Julie is a Chartered Accountant and 
Fellow of the Institute of Taxation with international 
experience and a deep understanding of the 
healthcare sector. She trained with KPMG and then 
worked for AstraZeneca plc, where she served as 
Vice President Group Finance, and more recently, as 
Interim Chief Financial Officer. Prior to that she was 
Regional Vice President Latin America, Marketing 
Company President AstraZeneca Portugal and Vice 
President Corporate Strategy and R&D Chief Financial 
Officer. She has previously held Vice President 
Finance positions in all areas of the healthcare value 
chain including Commercial, Operations, R&D and 
Business Development.

5 Gordon Howe (50)
Senior Vice President, Global Planning and 
Development
Joined Smith & Nephew in 1998 and, since August 
2007, has headed up the Global Planning and 
Business Development teams. He is based in 
Memphis, Tennessee.

Previous Experience
Gordon has held a number of senior management 
positions within the Smith & Nephew Group first 
in the Orthopaedics division and more recently at 
Group level. Prior to joining the Company, he held 
senior roles at United Technologies Corporation.

Nationality
American

Nationality
British

2 Jack Campo (58)
Chief Legal Officer
Joined Smith & Nephew in June 2008 and heads up 
the Global Legal function. Initially based in London, 
he has been based in Andover, Massachusetts since 
late 2011.

Previous Experience
Prior to joining Smith & Nephew, Jack held a number 
of senior legal roles within the General Electric 
Company, including seven years at GE Healthcare 
(GE Medical Systems) in the US and Asia. He began 
his career with Davis Polk & Wardwell. 

Nationality
American 

3 Francisco Canal Vega (51)
President, Emerging markets
Joined Smith & Nephew in January 2012 and leads 
the Emerging markets division, focusing particularly 
on achieving market leading growth in Brazil, Russia, 
China and India. He is based in Dubai.

Previous Experience
Francisco has held senior management positions in 
global companies including Gambro AB and Baxter 
International. He has lived and worked in many 
countries including Switzerland, Germany, China, 
Japan, US and Spain. Francisco was also formerly a 
Board Member of EUCOMED.

Nationality
Spanish

4 Mike Frazzette (50)
President, Advanced Surgical Devices
Joined Smith & Nephew in July 2006 as President 
of the Endoscopy business. Since July 2011, he has 
headed up our Advanced Surgical Devices division 
and is responsible for the Orthopaedic, Trauma and 
Endoscopy business in Established markets. He is 
based in Andover, Massachusetts.

Previous Experience
Mike has held a number of senior positions within 
the US medical devices industry. He was President 
and Chief Executive Officer of Micro Group, a US 
manufacturer of medical devices and spent 15 years 
at Tyco Healthcare becoming President of each of the 
Patient Care and Health Systems divisions.

Nationality
American

6 Kelvin Johnson (61)
President, International markets
Joined Smith & Nephew in 1980 and was appointed 
to lead the International markets division, covering 
all countries outside the Established and Emerging 
markets in 2011. He is based in Dubai.

Previous Experience
Kelvin has held a number of key international roles 
with Smith & Nephew, firstly in South Africa and 
then leading the Emerging Market strategy. He has 
spent some time leading the Group’s increased 
focus in China.

Nationality
South African

7 Helen Maye (53)
Chief Human Resources Officer
Joined Smith & Nephew in July 2011 and leads 
the Global Human Resources and Internal 
Communications functions. She is based in London.

Previous Experience
Helen has more than 35 years’ experience across 
a variety of international and global roles in 
medical devices and pharmaceuticals, including 
manufacturing, supply chain and human resources. 
Previously, she was Divisional Vice President of 
Human Resources at Abbott Laboratories.

Nationality
Irish

8 Cyrille Petit (42)
Chief Corporate Development Officer
Joined Smith & Nephew in May 2012 and leads the 
Corporate Development function. He is based in 
London.

Previous Experience
Cyrille spent the previous 15 years of his career with 
General Electric, where he held progressively senior 
positions beginning with GE Capital, GE Healthcare 
and more recently as the General Manager, Global 
Business Development of their Transportation 
Division. Cyrille’s career began in investment banking 
at BNP Paribas and then Goldman Sachs. 

Nationality
French

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Corporate Governance Statement

Compliance statement
We are committed to the highest standards of corporate governance and 
comply with all the provisions of the UK Corporate Governance Code (the 
‘Code’). The Company’s American Depositary Shares are listed on the 
NYSE and we are therefore subject to the rules of the NYSE as well as to 
the US securities laws and the rules of the SEC applicable to foreign private 
issuers. We comply with the requirements of the SEC and NYSE except 
that the Nomination & Governance Committee is not comprised wholly of 
independent Directors, as required by the NYSE, but consists of a majority of 
independent Directors in accordance with the Code. We shall explain in this 
Corporate Governance Statement and in the Directors’ Remuneration Report, 
how we have applied the provisions and principles of the FSA’s Listing Rules, 
Disclosure & Transparency Rules (‘DTR’) and the Code throughout the year.

Board
The Board is responsible for determining the strategy of the Chief Executive 
Officer and his Executive team implement that strategy. More detail about 
the structure of the Board, the matters we deal with and the key activities we 
undertook in 2012 is on page 63.

Roles of Directors
Whilst we all share collective responsibility for the activities of the Board, 
some of our roles have been defined in greater detail. In particular, the roles 
and responsibilities of the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer are clearly 
defined.

Chairman

 – Building a well balanced Board

 – Chairing Board meetings and setting Board agenda

 –  Ensuring effectiveness of the Board and ensuring annual review 

undertaken

 –  Encouraging constructive challenge and facilitating effective communication 

in the Board

 – Promoting effective Board relationships

 –  Ensuring appropriate induction and development programmes

 –  Ensuring effective two way communication and debate with shareholders

 –  Setting the tone at the top with regard to compliance and sustainability 

matters

 – Promoting high standards of corporate governance

 – Maintaining appropriate balance between stakeholders

Chief Executive Officer

 – Developing and implementing Group strategy

 –  Recommending the annual budget and five-year strategic and financial plan

 – Ensuring coherent leadership of the Group

 –  Managing the Group’s risk profile and establishing effective internal controls

 –  Regularly reviewing organisational structure, developing executive team 

and planning for succession

 –  Ensuring the Chairman and Board are kept advised and up to date 

regarding key matters

 –  Maintaining relationships with shareholders and advising the Board 

accordingly

 –  Setting the tone at the top with regard to compliance and sustainability 

matters

The Non-Executive Directors meet regularly prior to each Board meeting 
without management in attendance. The roles of Non-Executive Directors 
and, in particular, the Senior Independent Non-Executive Director are 
defined as follows:

Non-Executive Directors

 – Providing effective challenge to management

 – Assisting in development of strategy

 – Serving on the Board Committees

Senior Independent Non-Executive Director

 – Chairing meetings in the absence of the Chairman

 –  Acting as sounding board for the Chairman on Board-related matters

 –  Acting as an intermediary for the other Directors where necessary

 –  Available to shareholders on matters which cannot otherwise be resolved

 – Leading annual evaluation into the Board’s effectiveness

 – Leading search for a new Chairman, as necessary

Independence of Non-Executive Directors
We are sensitive to the need for our Non-Executive Directors to remain 
independent from management in order to exercise our independent 
oversight and effectively challenge management as necessary. We are 
mindful that some of our Non-Executive Directors have served on our Board 
for periods that some might regard as likely to impact their independence. 
We therefore continually assess the independence of each of our Non-
Executive Directors and have determined that all our Non-Executive 
Directors are independent in accordance with both UK and US requirements. 
None of our Non-Executive Directors or their immediate families has ever 
had a material relationship with the Group. None of them receive additional 
remuneration apart from Directors’ fees, nor do they participate in the 
Group’s share plans or pension schemes. None of them serve as directors of 
any companies or affiliates in which any other Director is a director.

However, more importantly, each of our Non-Executive Directors is prepared 
to question and challenge management, to request more information and 
to ask the difficult question. They insist on robust responses both within the 
Board room and sometimes between Board meetings. The Chief Executive 
Officer is open to challenge from the Non-Executive Directors and uses this 
positively to provide more detail and to reflect further on issues.

We value the input we receive from our long-serving Directors given their 
deep understanding of the Group. We are however focused on planning 
for the future to build a balanced board with the skills and experience fit 
to face the challenges that lie ahead. We have identified the key skills and 
experiences we need and have welcomed the specific experience that 
Ajay Piramal and Baroness Bottomley have brought to the Board since their 
appointment in 2012. Ajay brings his skills as a successful businessman 
within the Emerging markets, where growth in Emerging markets is 
one of our Strategic Priorities. Baroness Bottomley brings her in-depth 
knowledge of UK governmental healthcare policies and processes, which 
is also of key importance for us given the pricing pressure we face from 
European governmental authorities purchasing our products. Following 
his appointment in April 2013, Michael Friedman will bring his exceptional 
experience of the US Healthcare market and the challenges we face in 
Established markets. We continue to search for other suitable Non-Executive 
Directors, whose experience will align with our strategic objectives and, in 
due course, our longer serving directors will step down. 

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201263

Risk

 –  Determining risk appetite, regularly reviewing risk register and risk 

management processes

Shareholder Communications

 –  Approving preliminary announcement of annual results, annual report, half 

yearly report, quarterly financial announcements, the release of price 
sensitive announcements and any listing particulars, circulars or 
prospectuses

 –  Maintaining relationships and continued engagement with shareholders

Key activities in 2012  
(in addition to regular annual activities)
 –  Review and oversight of the implementation of new strategy and 

organisational structure

 –  Oversight of risk management process and review of strategic risk

 –  Approval of five-year plan

 –  Review of effectiveness of Board

 –  Review of ongoing Board composition and appointment of Ajay Piramal and 

Baroness Bottomley to the Board

 –  Consideration and approval of the acquisition of Healthpoint, LifeModeller 

and Kalypto

 –  Approval and oversight of European Process Optimisation programme

 –  Six physical scheduled meetings, three scheduled telephone meetings and 

two unscheduled telephone meetings. 

 –  Four Day Strategy Review and visit to our Emerging and International 

markets Head Office and Middle Eastern business

 – Two Day visit to our Memphis operations

Board Membership
Non-Executive Chairman Sir John Buchanan

Chief Executive Officer Olivier Bohuon 

Chief Financial Officer Adrian Hennah  
(resigned 31 December 2012)

Chief Financial Officer Julie Brown (appointed 4 February 2013)

Eight Independent Non-Executive Directors

 – Richard De Schutter (Senior Independent Director)

 – Ian Barlow

 – Baroness Bottomley (appointed 12 April 2012)

 – Geneviève Berger (retired 1 November 2012)

 – Michael Friedman (to be appointed 11 April 2013)

 – Pamela Kirby

 – Brian Larcombe

 – Joseph Papa

 – Ajay Piramal (appointed 1 January 2012)

 – Rolf Stomberg (retired 12 April 2012)

Role of the Board 
Strategy

 –  Approving the Group strategy including major changes to corporate and 

management structure, acquisitions, mergers, disposals, capital 
transactions over $10m, annual budget, financial plan, business plan, major 
borrowings and finance and banking arrangements

 –  Approving changes to the size and structure of the Board, overseeing 

succession planning and the appointment and removal of Directors and the 
Company Secretary

 –  Approving Group polices relating to corporate social responsibility, health 
and safety, Code of Conduct and Code of Share Dealing and other matters

Performance

 –  Reviewing performance against strategy, budgets and financial and 

business plans 

 –  Overseeing Group operations and maintaining a sound system of internal 

control 

 –  Determining dividend policy and dividend recommendations
 –  Approving the appointment and removal of the auditors and other 

professional advisers and approving significant changes to accounting 
policies or practices

 –  Approving the use of the Company’s shares in relation to employee and 

executive incentive plans

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Corporate Governance Statement continued

Board and Committee attendance
The table below details attendance of Directors at Board and Committee meetings held throughout the year:

Sir John Buchanan (i)
Olivier Bohuon
Adrian Hennah (ii)
Ian Barlow (i) 
Geneviève Berger (iii)
Baroness Bottomley (iv)
Pamela Kirby
Brian Larcombe (i)(v)
Joseph Papa (i)
Ajay Piramal (vi)
Richard De Schutter (i) (v) 
Rolf Stomberg (vii)

Audit 
Committee 
8 meetings
–
–
–
8
–
–
–
7
8
–
7
3

Nomination & 
Governance 
Committee 
7 meetings
7
7
–
–
–
–
–
5
–
–
7
2

Ethics & 
Compliance 
Committee 
5 meetings
–
–
–
–
3
–
5
–
4
–
5
–

Remuneration 
Committee 
7 meetings
–
–
–
–
–
2
7
7
7
–
7
2

Board 
11 meetings
9
11
11
10
7
6
11
9
11
7
9
4

(i)  Attended all scheduled meetings, but unable to attend certain unscheduled meetings due to prior commitments. 
(ii)  Retired from Board on 31 December 2012.
(iii)  Retired from the Board on 1 November 2012. 
(iv)  Appointed to the Board on 12 April 2012 and to the Remuneration Committee on 19 September 2012.
(v)  Appointed to the Nomination & Governance Committee on 12 April 2012.
(vi)  Appointed on 1 January 2012 and unable to attend certain meetings due to arrangements agreed prior to his appointment. 
(vii) Retired from the Board on 12 April 2012.

In all cases where a director is unable to attend a scheduled or unscheduled meeting they have the opportunity of asking questions, raising issues and making 
their views known before the meeting. 

From time to time Directors also attend Committee meetings at the invitation of the Committee Chairman, even if they are not members of the Committee, in 
order to gain a better understanding of the activities of that Committee.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201265

Board Development Programme
We continue to focus our Board development programme around the specific 
needs and interests of our directors. This means that there is a greater focus 
on facilitating a deeper understanding of our business rather than on formal 
director training. We value our visits to different Smith & Nephew sites across 
the world, as we are able to see the daily operation of the business and to 
meet and talk to the people leading and working in our business about the 
challenges they face and how they are planning to meet those challenges. 
We are able to handle our products and hear how our people are innovating 
and developing the products of the future. This direct contact with our 
businesses helps us when making investment and strategic decisions and 
when considering succession planning below Board level.

We receive updates at the Board and Committee meetings on external 
corporate governance changes likely to affect the Company in the future. In 
2012, we reviewed the proposed changes to narrative reporting, as well as 
changes to the UK Corporate Governance Code and the Audit Committee 
Guidelines. The Remuneration Committee has been monitoring changes 
to the way we will report on executive remuneration in the future and the 
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee met with the holders of 25% of the 
Company to discuss remuneration issues.

Ajay Piramal and Baroness Bottomley, who joined the Company during the 
year, took part in tailored induction programmes which included visits to 
our businesses in Hull in the UK, Andover and Mansfield in the US and to 
Mumbai in India as well as one-to-one meetings with senior head office 
executives and briefings on UK company law and corporate governance 
practices.

Month
February

Activity
Presentations from Roger Teasdale, President of Advanced 
Wound Management and Mike Frazzette, President of 
Advanced Surgical Devices on their distinct business 
strategies

September Visit to our Dubai head office for our Emerging markets and 

International markets divisions
Presentation on our Middle Eastern business
Presentations from the entire Executive Team as part of the 
Board’s Strategy Review

November  Visit to Advanced Surgical Devices offices in Memphis

Series of presentations from our Advanced Surgical Devices 
senior executives on the challenges faced by the business 
and our strategy and initiatives to meet these challenges

Board Effectiveness Review
Having conducted internal reviews into the effectiveness of the Board in 
2010 and 2011, we carried out an externally facilitated review in 2012. During 
the year, we evaluated the varying service provided by the different firms 
of advisers who practise in this area and selected Belinda Hudson and 
Richard Sheath of Independent Audit Limited to help facilitate our review 
given their experience conducting similar reviews for other companies of 
a similar size and complexity. Independent Audit has no other business 
relationship with the Company or any member of the Board. Following an 
initial planning meeting with the Chairman, they reviewed the minutes and 
papers of the Board and Committee meetings held in the past year and then 
interviewed each member of the Board and the Company Secretary. They 
also interviewed Helen Maye, Chief Human Resources Officer and Gary 
Luck of Towers Watson, who support the Remuneration Committee and 
James Goodwin, Head of Internal Audit and Les Clifford of Ernst & Young 
who work with the Audit Committee. Finally, they attended and observed our 
December 2012 Board meeting.

They concluded that the Board was very effective with a strong and 
professional Chairman, a strong cadre of Non-Executive Directors with a 
broad range of expertise and experience, and a Chief Executive Officer 
who takes a very positive and open approach to support the Board. 

Independent Audit made some suggestions for further improvement, which 
we discussed at our February 2013 Board meeting. We have agreed that 
in 2013, we shall focus on the following areas to improve our effectiveness 
further:

Succession Planning at Board level will be discussed regularly at full Board 
Meetings as well as by the Nomination & Governance Committee to 
ensure that there is a common understanding around the future structure 
of the Board. 
The activities and strategies of our competitiors will be discussed in greater 
detail to ensure that the Board better understands our position in the 
market place and the competitive pressures we face. 
Further opportunities will be explored for ensuring that Non-Executive 
Directors meet more frequently with senior executives below Board level 
to aid succession planning and to gain a greater understanding of the 
business and its challenges. 

Company Secretary and Independent Advice
The Company Secretary, Susan Swabey, is responsible to the Board for 
ensuring that we comply with all corporate governance requirements and are 
kept updated on our responsibilities. We all have access to her, individually 
and collectively.

We may also, from time to time, obtain independent professional advice, 
at the Company’s expense, if we judge it necessary in order to fulfil our 
responsibilities as Directors. If we are unable to attend a Board meeting or 
Board Committee meeting, we ensure that we are familiar with the matters to 
be discussed and make our views known to the Chairman or the Chairman 
of the relevant Committee prior to the meeting.

Management of Conflicts of Interest
None of us, nor our connected persons, has any family relationship with any 
other Director or officer, nor has a material interest in any contract to which 
the Company or any of its subsidiaries are, or were, a party during the year or 
up to 19 February 2013.

Each of us has a duty under the Companies Act 2006 to avoid a situation 
in which we have or may have a direct or indirect interest that conflicts 
or possibly may conflict with the interests of the Company. This duty is in 
addition to the existing duty that we owe to the Company to disclose to the 
Board any transaction or arrangement under consideration by the Company. 
If we become aware of any situation which may give rise to a conflict of 
interest, we inform the rest of the Board immediately and the Board is then 
permitted under the Articles of Association to authorise such conflict. The 
information is recorded in the Company’s Register of Conflicts together with 
the date on which authorisation was given. In addition, we certify, on an 
annual basis, that the information contained in the Register is correct.

When the Board decides whether or not to authorise a conflict, only the 
Directors who have no interest in the matter are able to participate in the 
discussion and a conflict is only authorised if we believe that it would not 
have an impact on our ability to promote the Company’s success in the 
long term. Additionally, we may, as a Board, determine that certain limits or 
conditions must be imposed when giving authorisation. We have identified 
no actual conflicts which have required approval by the Board. We have, 
however, identified 10 situations which could potentially give rise to a conflict 
and these have been duly approved by the Board and are reviewed on an 
annual basis.

Re-appointment of Directors
In accordance with the Code, with effect from the Annual General Meeting 
held in 2011, all Directors, including Baroness Bottomley who was appointed 
on 12 April 2012, Julie Brown who was appointed on 4 February 2013 and 
Michael Friedman who will be appointed on 11 April 2013, offer ourselves to 
shareholders for re-election annually. Each Director may be removed at any 
time by the Board or the shareholders.

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Corporate Governance Statement continued

Directors’ Indemnity Arrangements
Each Director is covered by appropriate directors and officers liability 
insurance and there are also Deeds of Indemnity in place between the 
Company and each Director. These Deeds of Indemnity mean that the 
Company indemnifies Directors in respect of any proceedings brought by 
third parties against them personally in their capacity as Directors of the 
Company. The Company would also fund ongoing costs in defending a legal 
action as they are incurred rather than after judgement has been given. In 
the event of an unsuccessful defence in an action against them, individual 
Directors would be liable to repay the Company for any damages and to 
repay defence costs to the extent funded by the Company.

Liaison with Shareholders
The Executive Directors meet regularly with investors to discuss the 
Company’s business and financial performance both at the time of the 
announcement of results and at industry investor events. During 2012, the 
Executive Directors held meetings with institutional investors, including 
investors representing approximately 46% of the share capital as at 
December 2012.

As part of this programme of investor meetings, during 2012, as Chairman 
of the Company, I met with investors representing 14% of the share capital. 
Over the last three years, I have met investors representing in aggregate 20% 
of the share capital. Also during 2012, Joseph Papa met with shareholders 
holding 25% of the share capital to discuss remuneration policies and plans.

We receive a short report at every Board meeting reviewing our major 
shareholders and any significant changes in their holdings since the 
previous meeting. Olivier Bohuon and Adrian Hennah and his successor 
Julie Brown routinely advise us of any concerns or issues that shareholders 
have raised with them in their meetings. We also receive copies of analysts’ 
reports on the Company and our peers between Board meetings.

The Company’s website (www.smith-nephew.com) contains information of 
interest to both institutional investors and private shareholders, including 
financial information and webcasts of the results presentations to analysts for 
each quarter, as well as specific information for private shareholders relating 
to the management of their shareholding.

Share Capital
As at 19 February 2013, the Company’s total issued share capital with voting 
rights consisted of 904,988,045 Ordinary Shares of 20 US cents each. 
59,503,197 Ordinary Shares are held in treasury and are not included in the 
above figure.

As at 19 February 2013, notification had been received from the undernoted 
investors under the DTR in respect of interests in 3% or more of the issued 
Ordinary Shares with voting rights of the Company.

Invesco
BlackRock, Inc. 
Legal and General Group plc

Number of 
Shares
105,165,112
44,811,205
28,331,119

%
11.6
5.0
3.1

In addition to the above the Company is aware that Walter Scott & Partners 
Limited hold approximately 39m Ordinary Shares (4.3%). Otherwise, the 
Company is not aware of any person who has a significant direct or indirect 
holding of securities in the Company and is not aware of any persons holding 
securities which may control the Company. There are no securities in issue 
which have special rights as to the control of the Company.

Dividend
The Board has proposed a final dividend of 16.20 US cents per share which, 
together with the interim dividend of 9.90 US cents, makes a total for 2012 
of 26.10 US cents. The final dividend is expected to be paid, subject to 
shareholder approval, on 8 May 2013 to shareholders on the Register of 
Members at the close of business on 19 April 2013.

Annual General Meeting
The Company’s Annual General Meeting is to be held on 11 April 2013 at 
2:00 pm at IET London: Savoy Place, 2 Savoy Place, Westminster, London, 
WC2R 0BL. Registered shareholders have been sent either a Notice of 
Annual General Meeting or notification of availability of the Notice of Annual 
General Meeting, as appropriate.

Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers
We have adopted a Code of Ethics for senior financial officers, which is 
available on the Group’s website (www.smith-nephew.com) and on request. 
This applies to the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Group 
Financial Controller and the Group’s senior financial officers. There have 
been no waivers to any of the Code’s provisions nor any amendments made 
to the Code during 2012 or up until 19 February 2013.

Evaluation of Internal Controls Procedures
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate 
internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 
15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

We, as a Board, are responsible overall for reviewing and approving 
the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls operated by the 
Group, including financial, operational and compliance controls and risk 
management. We have delegated responsibility for the review of financial, 
ethical compliance and quality management systems controls to the Audit 
Committee, which reviews the internal control process on an annual basis 
and evaluates its effectiveness to ensure that it remains robust and to 
identify any control weaknesses. The latest review covered the financial 
year to 31 December 2012 and included the period up to the approval of this 
Annual Report. The main elements of this annual review are as follows:

The Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have evaluated 
the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Group’s disclosure 
controls and procedures as at 31 December 2012. Based upon this 
evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer 
concluded on 19 February 2013 that the disclosure controls and procedures 
were effective as at 31 December 2012.

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate 
internal control over financial reporting. Management assessed the 
effectiveness of the Group’s internal control over financial reporting as at 
31 December 2012 in accordance with the requirements in the US under 
s404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. In making this assessment, they used 
the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organisations of the 
Treadway Commission in Internal Control-Integrated Framework. Based 
on their assessment, management concluded and reported that, as at 
31 December 2012, the Group’s internal control over financial reporting is 
effective based on those criteria.

Having received the report from management, the Audit Committee reports 
to the Board on the effectiveness of controls.

Ernst & Young LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm 
issued an audit report on the Group’s internal control over financial 
reporting as at 31 December 2012. This report appears on page 91.

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Disclosure of information to the auditors
In accordance with Section 418 of the Companies Act 2006, the Directors 
serving at the time of approving the Directors’ Report confirm that, to the best 
of their knowledge and belief, there is no relevant audit information of which 
the auditors, Ernst & Young LLP, are unaware and the Directors also confirm 
that they have taken reasonable steps to be aware of any relevant audit 
information and, accordingly, to establish that the auditors are aware of such 
information.

Auditors
Ernst & Young LLP have expressed their willingness to continue as auditors 
and resolutions proposing their reappointment and to authorise the Directors 
to determine their remuneration will be proposed at the Annual General 
Meeting as approved by the Audit Committee.

Directors’ Report
The Directors’ Report includes the following sections; ‘Marketplace and 
Business Segment Review’ (pages 22 to 33), ‘Sustainability Review’ (pages 
35-41), ‘Financial review and principal risks’ (pages 43 to 54), ‘Corporate 
Governance’ (pages 57 to 74) and ‘Group and investor information’ 
(pages 144 to 159).

Corporate headquarters and registered office
The corporate headquarters is in the UK and the registered office address 
is: Smith & Nephew plc, 15 Adam Street, London WC2N 6LA, UK. Registered 
in England and Wales No. 324357. Tel: +44 (0) 20 7401 7646. Website: www.
smith-nephew.com.

Committees of the Board
We delegate some of the Board’s detailed work to four Committees. Each 
of these has their own terms of reference, which may be found on the 
Group’s website at www.smith-nephew.com. The Company Secretary or 
her designate is secretary to each of the Committees. The Chairman of 
each Committee reports orally to the Board and minutes of the meetings are 
circulated to all members of the Board.

There is an established system of internal control throughout the Group and 
our Divisions. The main elements of the internal control framework are as 
follows: 

 –  The management of each Division is responsible for the establishment and 

review of effective internal financial controls within their Division.

 –  The Group Finance Manual sets out, amongst other things, financial and 
accounting policies and minimum internal financial control standards.

 –  The Internal Audit function agrees an annual work plan and scope of work 

with the Audit Committee.

 –  The Audit Committee reviewed reports from the internal auditors on their 

findings on internal financial controls.

 –  The Audit Committee reviews the Group Whistleblower procedures.
 –  The Audit Committee reviews regular reports from the Group Financial 

Controller and the Heads of the Taxation and Treasury functions.

This system of internal control has been designed to manage rather 
than eliminate material risks to the achievement of our strategic and 
business objectives and can provide only reasonable, and not absolute, 
assurance against material misstatement or loss. Because of inherent 
limitations, our internal controls over financial reporting may not prevent 
or detect all mis-statements. In addition, our projections of any evaluation 
of effectiveness in future periods are subject to the risk that controls may 
become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree 
of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. This process 
complies with the Turnbull working party guidance, revised October 2005 
and additionally contributes to our compliance with the obligations under 
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act 2002 and other internal assurance activities. There 
has been no change in the Group’s internal control over financial reporting 
during the period covered by this Annual Report that has materially affected, 
or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Group’s internal control over 
financial reporting.

Principal accountant fees and services
Fees for professional services provided by Ernst & Young LLP, the Group’s 
independent auditors in each of the last two fiscal years, in each of the 
following categories were:

Audit
Audit related fees
Tax 
Other

2012 
$m
3
–
2
–
5

2011 
$m
3
–
2
–
5

Audit fees include fees associated with the annual audit and local statutory 
audits required internationally. A more detailed breakdown of audit fees may 
be found in Note 3 of the Notes to the Group accounts.

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Audit Committee
Ian Barlow

Nomination & Governance Committee
Sir John Buchanan

Membership
 – Ian Barlow (Chairman) (Independent and financial expert)
 – Brian Larcombe (Independent)
 – Joseph Papa (Independent)
 – Richard De Schutter (Independent)
 – Rolf Stomberg (Independent) (retired 12 April 2012)
 –  In addition, all meetings were attended by the Chief Executive Officer, the 

Chief Financial Officer, the Head of Internal Audit, the external auditors and 
key finance personnel.

Eight Meetings
One matter agreed by written resolution
Main Responsibilities
Financial reporting
 –  Ensuring the integrity of the financial statements and their compliance with 

UK and US statutory requirements

 –  Reviewing significant financial reporting judgments and compliance with 

accounting standards, policies and practices

 –  Monitoring announcements relating to the Group’s financial performance
Internal controls and risk management
 –  Monitoring the effectiveness of internal controls and compliance with the 

Membership
 – Sir John Buchanan (Chairman) (Independent on appointment)

 – Olivier Bohuon

 – Brian Larcombe (Independent) (appointed 12 April 2012)

 – Richard De Schutter (Independent)

 – Rolf Stomberg (Independent) (retired 12 April 2012)

Seven Meetings

Main Responsibilities
 – Review size and composition of Board

 – Oversee Board succession plans

 – Recommend Director appointments

 – Oversee governance aspects of the Board and its Committees

 – Oversee review into the Board’s Effectiveness

 –  Consider and update the Schedule of Matters Reserved to the Board  

and the Terms of Reference of the Board Commtitees

Sarbanes-Oxley Act specifically S 302 and 404

 –  Monitor external corporate governance activities and keep the Board 

 –  Reviewing the operation of the Group’s risk management processes and 
the control environment mitigating compliance and quality management 
system risk

Receive reports on fraud and whistleblowing
Internal audit
 –  Agreeing internal audit plans and reviewing internal audit reports
 –  Monitor the effectiveness of the internal audit function
External audit
 –  Overseeing the Board’s relationship with the external auditors, monitoring 

and reviewing their performance, evaluating their effectiveness and making 
recommendations to the Board for their reappointment

Key Activities in 2012 (in addition to main responsibilities)
 –  Reviewed plans for continuing the reformatting of the Annual Report  

in light of the new Narrative Reporting requirements

 –  Considered the management of strategic risk by the Tax function.
 –  Received and considered a report from the Treasury function.
 –  Reviewed an external report on the effectiveness of the internal audit 

function and monitored implementation of its recommendations.

 – Reviewed capabilities of finance function.

updated

 –  Oversee Board development programme and the induction process  

for new Directors

Key Activities in 2012 (in addition to main responsibilities)
 –  Recommended the appointment of Julie Brown as Chief Financial Officer
 –  Recommended the appointment of Baroness Bottomley as an additional  

Non-Executive Director

 –  Considered the appointment of Michael Friedman as an additional 

Non-Executive Director

 –  Expanded remit of the Committee to include governance matters
 – Continued consideration of diversity issues

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
69

Ethics & Compliance Committee
Pamela Kirby

Remuneration Committee
Joseph Papa

Membership
 – Pamela Kirby (Chairman) (Independent)

Membership
 – Joseph Papa (Chairman) (Independent)

 – Geneviève Berger (Independent) (to 1 November 2012)

 –  Baroness Bottomley (Independent) (appointed  

 – Joseph Papa (Independent)

 – Richard De Schutter (Independent)

Five Meetings

Main Responsibilities
 – Review ethics and compliance programmes

 – Review policies and training programmes

 –  Review compliance performance based on monitoring, auditing and 

investigations data

 – Review allegations of significant compliance failures

 –  Review Group’s internal and external communications relating to ethical 

and compliance issues

 – Review external developments and compliance activities

 –  Receive reports from the Group’s ethics and compliance meetings and from 

the Chief Compliance Officer and the Chief Legal Officer

19 September 2012)

 – Pamela Kirby (Independent)

 – Brian Larcombe (Independent)

 – Richard De Schutter (Independent)

Seven Meetings
Three matters agreed by written resolution
Main Responsibilities
 –  Determine remuneration policy for Executive Directors and senior 

executives

 –  Approve individual remuneration packages for Executive Directors and 
Executive Officers at least annually and any major changes to individual 
packages throughout the year

 –  Determine the use of long-term incentive plans and oversee the use of 

shares in all executive and all-employee plans

 –  Approve appropriate performance measures for short-term and long-term 

incentive plans for Executive Directors and senior executives

 –  Determine pay-outs under short-term and long-term incentive plans for 

Executive Directors and senior executives

 –  Approve Directors’ Remuneration Report ensuring compliance with related 

governance provisions

 –  Maintain constructive engagement on remuneration issues with 

shareholders

 – Have regard to remuneration policies and practices across the Group

Key Activities in 2012 (in addition to main responsibilities)
 –  Approved FCPA settlement with the US Department of Justice and 

Securities and Exchange Commission

 –  Met with independent monitor appointed under the DOJ/SEC settlement  
to discuss the effectiveness of our Global Compliance programme, review 
his initial report, and consider further enhancements

 –  Continued to review compliance programme for third party sellers  

and other third parties doing business with the Company 

 – Reviewed development of employee compliance training programmes

 –  Considered level and trend of investment in the Company’s compliance 

efforts

 –  Considered compliance implications relating to potential acquisitions, 

including due diligence findings and integration plans

Key Activities in 2012 (in addition to main responsibilities)
 – Approved package for incoming Chief Financial Officer
 –  Approved joining and leaving packages for all direct reports  

to Chief Executive Officer

 –  Implemented new remuneration arrangements for top 70 senior executives 

to align remuneration with the updated Group strategy

 –  Continued engagement programme with major shareholders to explain 

new remuneration arrangements

 –  Reviewed policies on termination payments and compensation payments 

for lost incentives by new hires

 – Monitored external developments relating to remuneration best practice

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70

Corporate Governance Statement continued

Audit Committee

Dear Shareholder
The Audit Committee had a busy year with five main meetings supplemented 
by three telephone meetings to approve quarterly financial reports. The 
topics covered the membership and the principal duties of the Committee 
are set out in the table on page 68 of this report. Its terms of reference can be 
found on our website www.smith-nephew.com. I comment in this report by 
exception on our main responsibilities and in more detail on one off work.

The members of the Committee, who are all independent Directors, bring 
a variety of relevant expertise from their current or prior roles as Chief 
Executives of substantial businesses both in the UK and US and from their 
roles as Non-Executive Directors at other corporations. I am the designated 
finance expert, being a Chartered Accountant and former senior partner at 
KPMG UK, retiring in 2008.

Main Responsibilities

Financial reporting
Our review of the appropriateness of the Group’s principal accounting 
policies, practices and accounting judgments concentrated on the valuation 
of inventory and receivables, on the carrying value of goodwill, intangible and 
tangible assets, on the valuation of retirement benefits, contingencies and 
provisions. In light of current market conditions we paid particular attention 
to the review of the management of receivables derived from trading in 
Southern European countries.

We continued to review the style and format of the Annual Report during 
2012, building on the improvements we made in 2011. In particular, this 
year we have concentrated on the disclosure of metrics around our key 
performance indicators and have changed the ordering of sections to 
provide a better flow through the document.

Internal controls and risk management
We ensured compliance with the UK Corporate Governance Code and the 
Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

On behalf of the Board, we reviewed the system of internal financial control 
and satisfied ourselves that we are meeting required standards both for 
the year ended 31 December 2012 and up to the date of approval of this 
Annual Report.

No concerns were raised with us in 2012 about possible improprieties in 
matters of financial reporting or other matters.

We continued to work with the full Board to improve the clarity of evaluation 
of risk by the executive and Board and the systems for reporting and 
managing risk and for how it is dealt with in this Annual Report. The 
underlying purpose is to enable the Board to focus on the key strategic risks, 
both on the upside – not doing things – and on the downside. Aside from 
routine reporting the Board conducted a strategic discussion on risk during 
the year.

Internal Audit

Our Internal Audit function carries out work in three areas: our financial 
systems and processes; our systems that ensure compliance with regulation 
and laws; and our quality management systems in our manufacturing 
activities. In all three areas they act as a third line of defence behind 
operational management’s front line and own assurance activities. During 
the year they completed 67 reviews, the results of which were seen by the 
Committee which also oversees the effective and timely remediation of any 
recommendations.

We also considered an external review of the effectiveness of the Internal 
Audit function undertaken by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. The report was 
positive about the team and made recommendations principally related 
to further strengthening the Internal Audit team, improving methods of 
managing its workload and communicating its work to external stakeholders 
and the scope to extend the reach of its work.

In this context from 2013 the scope of the Internal Audit function has been 
widened to include auditing clinical and regulatory assurance. 

Receipt of functional reports

During the year, we received reports from the Group Financial Controller 
on Shared Services, from the heads of Tax and Treasury in relation to their 
functions, from the Chief Information Officer in relation to IT security and 
from the SVP of Quality and Regulatory Affairs on quality assurance. In all 
cases we concentrated on the risk environment, the risk parameters within 
which the Board wishes to operate and the effectiveness of the systems and 
processes to manage those risks.

Review of the work of the external auditors

We monitored the work of Ernst & Young, our external auditors throughout 
the year. Their work provided essential assurance over the financial systems 
and reporting that valuably supplements the work of Internal Audit. They 
continue to evidence their independence in the challenge they provide to 
management and the insight they bring to the Committee from their work 
with us and comparative observations of other companies.

We formally reviewed their effectiveness through review of their regular 
reports on accounting matters, governance and control and accounting 
developments. In addition we utilised formal year end feedback from all 
our operating units as a result of which we asked for improvements to be 
made in two operating locations and conducted a formal questionnaire of 
Committee members. We reviewed the inspection reports from the Auditor 
Oversight Boards in the UK and the US. Finally we reviewed the fees of 
the auditors using benchmarking against groups of comparable size and 
complexity.

Our conclusions were that the external audit was carried out effectively 
and with necessary objectivity and independence. This is the basis for 
our recommendation to the Board and shareholders that Ernst & Young be 
reappointed for 2013.

We also considered the Financial Reporting Council’s proposals on auditor 
rotation and, in light of the recent change in Chief Financial Officer, agreed 
that the implications for the company should be reviewed during 2013.

Auditor Independence Policy

We have determined a schedule of approved non-audit services for the 
Group external auditors to undertake. Our Auditor Independence Policy 
prohibits the external auditors from performing services which would 
result in the auditing of their own work, participating in activities normally 
undertaken by management, acting as advocates for the Group and creating 
a mutuality of interest between the auditors and the Group by, for example, 
being remunerated through a success fee structure. On an annual basis, 
we pre-approve the budget for fees relating to audit and non-audit work, 
including taxation compliance services, in accordance with a listing of 
particular services. In the event that limits for these services are expected to 
be exceeded or the Group wants the external auditors to perform services 
that have not been pre-approved, my approval is required. The Committee is 
subsequently advised of any such services and fees. In this way all services 
provided by the external auditors during the year were pre-approved by the 
Audit Committee. 

The Auditor Independence Policy also governs the policy regarding the audit 
partner rotation in accordance with the Auditing Practices Board Ethical 
Standards in the UK and the SEC rules in the US. Partners and senior audit 
staff may not be recruited by the Group unless two years have expired 
since their previous involvement with the Group. No such recruitment has 
occurred. We consider that the implementation of this policy helps ensure 
that auditor objectivity and independence is safeguarded. 

2013

In addition to our main responsibilities we will be looking at the systems of 
control and risk management over the Group’s recent acquisitions.

Ian Barlow
Chairman of Audit Committee

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201271

Nomination & Governance Committee

Dear Shareholder
I am pleased to present my report on the activities of the Nomination & 
Governance Committee in 2012. The membership and the principal duties of 
the Committee are set out in the table on page 68 of this report.

In 2012, we dealt with the following matters:

Appointment of Julie Brown

We recommended the appointment of Julie Brown as Chief Financial Officer 
to replace Adrian Hennah who left the Company at the end of 2012 to take up 
a position elsewhere.

Appointment of Non-Executive Directors

In 2011, we recommended the appointment of Ajay Piramal, who joined the 
Board in 2012, bringing a wealth of experience as a succesful businessman 
in India. We also conducted and completed the search for Baroness 
Bottomley, who joined the Board in April 2012. She too brings a great deal of 
experience in the area of governmental healthcare policy.

We have throughout the year continued our search for additional 
Non-Executive Directors, in particular focusing on the skills, experience, 
independence and diversity each candidate can bring to the Board. All 
Non-Executive Director appointments are linked to the strategic priorities 
identified by the Board: 

 – Emerging Market experience
 – US healthcare experience
 – European healthcare experience

Since the year end, we have recommended the appointment of Michael 
Friedman who will join the Board on 11 April. He brings exceptional 
experience of the US Healthcare market.

As and when we find further appropriate candidates willing to join our Board,  
we will replace some of our longer-serving Directors.

Where appropriate we use the services of external search agents, 
recognising however, that suitable candidates may sometimes come to our 
attention by other means. 

Expanded the Remit of the Committee

We reviewed the remit of the Committee during 2012 and agreed to expand 
its role to cover governance matters. As part of our role in recommending 
appointments to the Board, we were already considering matters of 
governance such as the independence of Non-Executive Directors, 
succession planning, diversity and conflicts of interest. The Committee also 
oversees the process around the review into the Board’s Effectiveness. It 
therefore made logical sense to recognise this formally by changing the 
name of the committee to the Nomination & Governance Committee and 
expanding its role to consider wider areas of governance. 

The expanded role includes oversight of the effective governance of the 
Board and its committees, the review of terms of reference of the Board and 
its Committees, supervision of the induction process for new directors and 
the ongoing Board Development programme. We will also monitor external 
governance activities to ensure that the Board is kept up to date on changes 
that might affect us.

The whole Board remains responsible for ensuring that the Company is 
governed appropriately, but the more detailed work to support this will now 
be carried out by this Committee.

Sir John Buchanan
Chairman of Nomination & Governance 
Committee

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Corporate Governance Statement continued

Ethics & Compliance Committee

Dear Shareholder,
I am pleased to present my report on the activities of the Ethics & 
Compliance Committee in 2012. The membership and the principal duties of 
the Committee are set out in the table on page 69 of this report.

In 2012 we dealt with the following matters:

Settlement with US Securities and Exchange Commission (‘SEC’) 
and US Department of Justice (‘DOJ’)

In January 2012, we reviewed and approved the final terms of the settlement 
between the Company and the SEC and DOJ in connection with their Foreign 
Corrupt Practices Act (‘FCPA’) investigation of the medical devices industry. 
This has been a matter that we as a Committee have monitored closely 
since the formation of the Committee in 2008. The settlement included the 
appointment of an independent monitor who worked with the Company over 
most of 2012 to evaluate the effectiveness of our compliance programme and 
make recommendations, as appropriate, for further enhancements to the 
programme. We have been working collaboratively with the monitor for this 
purpose. The Committee reviewed his initial report and continues to review 
the Company’s progress towards implementation of his recommended 
enhancements. 

Compliance Programme for Distributors

We continued to review and improve our compliance programme with 
third party sellers (such as distributors and sales agents), particularly in 
the Emerging and International markets. We have initiated a semi-annual 
communication to our sellers to reinforce our commitment to ethical and 
legal behaviour and making it clear that we will not tolerate any improper 
inducements in the sale of products. We also developed a set of resources to 
help sellers build or enhance their own compliance programme. Our sellers 
can customise and brand these materials, which have been translated. 

Compliance Programme for other Third Parties

We have continued to strengthen our controls over vendors, service 
providers and other third parties engaged by us but that do not sell our 
products, based on the supplier type and risk profile. We have created 
Guidance on the Smith & Nephew Code of Conduct and Business Principles 
for Third Parties to highlight the areas of our Code that apply directly to third 
parties and that we expect them to follow when working on our behalf.

Employee Compliance Programme

New employees are trained on our Code of Conduct which sets out the basic 
legal and ethical principles for carrying out business and applies both to 
employees and others who act on the Group’s behalf. It sets out in detail how 
persons covered by the Code of Conduct are expected to interact ethically 
with healthcare professionals and government officials. A copy of the Code 
of Conduct can be found on the Group’s website (www.smith-nephew.com).

The Code of Conduct includes our whistle-blowing policy, which (subject 
to local law) requires covered persons to report any breach either directly 
or anonymously through an independent provider. Members of the public 
are also encouraged to report concerns. All reports are reviewed and the 
appropriate action taken, including referral to senior management or the 
Board, where warranted. The Code also states that we have a non-retaliation 
policy against anyone who makes a report in good faith. The Ethics & 
Compliance Committee is advised of any potentially significant improprieties 
which are reported. 

We have also monitored the development and enhancement of the 
employee compliance training programme. Employees are required to 
undertake compliance training and managers are encouraged to discuss 
ethical matters with their teams. Some training is tailored for employees in 
specific job situations. Further support is provided through a comprehensive 
set of tools and resources located on our global intranet platform.

Compliance Infrastructure

We are mindful that an effective compliance programme requires both a 
culture of integrity and investment in the necessary infrastructure to give 
effect to that culture. 

With that in mind, the Committee reviewed the level and trend of investments 
in the Company’s compliance programme, as well as the costs of compliance 
defects. As the Company grows in new markets, we continue to expand our 
global network of Regional Compliance Officers and use them to reinforce 
the importance of compliance with our employees and third parties around 
the world. 

Compliance Implications around Acquisitions

Finally, as members of the Board discussing acquisition opportunities, we 
ensure that the compliance implications of each acquisition are considered 
as part of both the due diligence process and plans for integration of the 
acquired business. 

Pamela Kirby
Chairman of Ethics & Compliance Committee

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
73

Other Committees

Executive Risk Committee
Olivier Bohuon chairs our Executive Risk Committee which includes the 
Executive Directors and Executive Officers of the Group. As an integral part of 
our planning and review process, the management of each of our divisions 
identifies the risks applicable to their business, the probability of those risks 
occurring, the impact if they do occur and the actions required and being 
taken to manage and mitigate those risks. The Executive Risk Committee 
meets twice a year to review the major risks they identify across the Group 
and the mitigation processes and plans. As appropriate, the Executive 
Risk Committee may re-categorise risks or require further information or 
mitigating action to be undertaken. We receive an annual report from the 
Executive Risk Committee, which details the significant risks categorised 
by potential financial impact on profit and share price and by likelihood 
of occurrence. Details of new, key or significantly increased risks, along 
with actions put in place to mitigate such risks, are also reported to us as 
appropriate. We have provided further information on the principal risks 
identified through this process in ‘Principal risks and risk management’ on 
pages 54 to 55 of this Annual Report.

Disclosures Committee
Olivier Bohuon chairs the Disclosures Committee which includes the Chief 
Financial Officer and various additional senior executives. The Committee 
meets as required and approves the release of all major communications to 
investors, to the UK Listing Authority and to the London and New York Stock 
Exchanges.

Sir John Buchanan
Chairman
20 February 2013

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7474

Directors’ remuneration report

The Remuneration Committee has focused 
on ensuring that our executive remuneration 
arrangements continue to reinforce and 
support the delivery of the Company’s new 
strategy.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
75

Dear Shareholder,
I am pleased to introduce the Directors’ Remuneration Report for the year 
ended 31 December 2012 which has been prepared by the Remuneration 
Committee and approved by the Board. 

2012 has been a strong year for the Company despite a challenging external 
environment. As the executive team led by Olivier Bohuon continues to drive 
the new strategy from a strong and stable financial base, the Committee 
has been working to ensure that our executive remuneration arrangements 
continue to reinforce and support the delivery of that strategy.

The current remuneration framework was introduced last year with the aim 
to simplify the overall remuneration structure, drive the delivery of the new 
strategy, and strengthen the link between pay and performance. Our key 
financial goal remains to deliver a higher return to shareholders relative to 
our peer group over the long term, as measured by Total Shareholder Return 
(TSR) and free cashflow. These Key Performance Indicators are reinforced 
by our executive incentive arrangements; the annual incentive is based 
primarily on revenue, profit and cash generation, and the Performance Share 
Programme rewards superior TSR relative to our peer group and longer-term, 
sustainable free cashflow.

The Company’s remuneration policy is set out on the following page. The 
Committee believes the policy continues to be appropriate for the 2013 
financial year as it is closely aligned with our strategic goals (and hence our 
shareholders’ interests), is highly results-oriented and rewards sustained 
superior performance.

As a Board, we take seriously the views and feedback of our shareholders 
on remuneration matters. Although the shareholders we consulted were 
broadly supportive of our moves towards simplification and alignment with 
our changing corporate strategy, we received some feedback in connection 
with the 2012 AGM that the explanation of the new Annual Incentive Plan 
could be improved. We have undertaken to address this in the following 
report and I hope you find this new layout helpful in understanding our 
approach to remuneration.

I also took the opportunity in December 2012 to meet with some of our 
largest shareholders to discuss any concerns relating to remuneration. The 
Shareholders I met acknowledged the changes we have made to align the 
remuneration of our executive population more closely with the Strategic 
Priorities detailed on page 8. They also appreciated our clearer explanation 
of how we operated the Annual Incentive Plan and understood how we 
determined an appropriate remuneration package for Julie Brown, our new 
Chief Financial Officer. We also spent time talking to them about the new 
remuneration reporting requirements that will apply from 2014 and how we 
operated our shareholding guidelines.

Joseph Papa
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee

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Directors’ remuneration report continued

Compliance statement
We have prepared this Directors’ Remuneration Report (the ‘Report’) in 
accordance with The Large and Medium-sized Companies and Groups 
(Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 (the ‘Regulations’). It also 
meets the relevant requirements of the Financial Services Authority (‘FSA’) 
Listing Rules. In addition, we have been mindful of the BIS proposals on 
remuneration, with a view to improving the transparency of our reporting. 
As required by the Regulations, a resolution to approve the Report will be 
proposed at the Annual General Meeting on 11 April 2013.

Smith & Nephew’s remuneration policy
Smith & Nephew’s remuneration policy is designed to attract and motivate 
talent to drive the strategy over the short, medium and long term, which in turn 
will lead to higher returns for our shareholders. The Committee believes it is 
important for remuneration arrangements to be consistent across our senior 
executive team. In setting the policy and making remuneration decisions, the 
Committee takes into account pay and conditions elsewhere in the Group and 
our policy for the remuneration of our executive management group is broadly 
consistent with that for the Executive Directors.

This section of our report describes the key components of the remuneration 
arrangements for Executive Directors that were in place for 2012 and remain 
largely unchanged for 2013.

Component
Base salary and benefits
Base salary

Pension

Benefits

Annual incentives 
Annual Incentive Plan

Objective

Operation

To attract and retain high performing 
talent by setting base salaries at rates 
comparable to what would be paid in 
an equivalent position elsewhere

Salaries are reviewed annually, with any increase applying from 1 April.

Salary levels/increases take account of:
 –   scope and responsibility of the position; 
 –    performance potential of the individual by reference to the median salary 

for the relevant geographical market; and

 –   average increase awarded across the Company.

To provide market-competitive 
retirement benefits

Executive Directors receive an allowance (fixed as 30% of salary) in lieu of 
membership of a company run pension scheme. Base salary is the only 
element of remuneration that is pensionable.

To attract and retain high performing 
talent by providing benefits 
comparable to those that would be 
provided for an equivalent position 
elsewhere

Includes healthcare and death-in-service provision and company car/
allowance.

Relocation costs if required.

To motivate and reward the 
achievement of specific annual 
financial and business objectives

The Annual Incentive Plan comprises a cash and equity element, both 
based on the achievement of financial and business objectives set at the 
start of the year (see right).

To encourage sustained high 
standards through the application of a 
‘malus’ provision over three years on 
the equity element of the Plan 

At the end of the year, the Committee determines the extent to which these 
have been achieved and sets the award level.

This award has a cash element (paid in full at the end of the performance year) 
and an equity element comprising conditional share awards (made at the time 
of the cash award), with vesting phased over the following three years. 

The equity element vests at the end of each of the next three years (1⁄3, 1⁄3, 1⁄3), 
only if performance remains satisfactory over each of these three years; 
otherwise, awards will lapse.

Participants will receive an additional number of shares equivalent to 
the amount of dividend payable per vested share during the relevant 
performance period.

Longer-term incentives
Performance Share 
Programme

To motivate and reward longer-term 
performance

The Group operates one long-term incentive plan.

Conditional share awards vest after three years subject to the achievement 
of stretching performance targets. 

Awards may be subject to clawback in the event of material financial 
mis-statement or misconduct.

Participants will receive an additional number of shares equivalent to 
the amount of dividend payable per vested share during the relevant 
perfomance period.

Executive shareholding
Executive shareholding

To support alignment with shareholder 
interests by requiring our senior 
executives to act like shareholders

Executive Directors must retain 50% of all shares vesting under annual 
and long-term incentive plans (after tax) until their holding requirement has 
been met. 

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201277

Opportunity

Performance measures for 2012

Changes for 2013

Normally, the annual salary increases 
for Executive Directors will be in line 
with that for the Group as a whole. 

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

None

None

None

Cash Element

Target: 100% of salary (Maximum: 
150%)

Equity Element

Target: 50% of salary (Maximum: 65%)

70% of the annual incentive is based on financial performance measures – 
including revenue, trading profit and trading cash – with the remaining 30% 
based on other business goals.

None

The Committee has the discretion to apply a multiplier – adjusting the 
outcome up or down by up to 10% to reward or penalise conduct in terms 
of reputational, leadership and organisational behaviours. 

The maximum opportunity (shown left) cannot be exceeded through the 
application of the multiplier.

Target face value of awards are 95%  
of salary (Maximum 190%) 

50% of an award vests subject to three-year Total Shareholder Return 
relative to industry peers.

None

The remaining 50% of award vests on achievement of three-year 
Cumulative Free Cashflow targets.

2x salary

n/a

None

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Directors’ remuneration report continued

Pay-for-performance: scenario analysis
The following chart shows the potential split between the different elements 
of the Executive Directors’ remuneration in 2013 under three different 
performance scenarios; ‘Below Threshold’, ‘Target’ and ‘Stretch’.

h
c
t
e
r
t
S

t
e
g
r
a
T

w
o
e
B

l

l

d
o
h
s
e
r
h

t

O Bohuon

J Brown

O Bohuon

J Brown

O Bohuon

J Brown

0

£1m

£2m

£3m

£4m

£5m

Base salary
Pension
Annual Incentive (equity)

Other benefits
Performance Share Programme

Annual Incentive (cash)

Base salary
Annual base salary: 
€1,081,500 for the CEO, £500,000 for the CFO

Pension
30% of salary
Other benefits
Taxable value of annual benefits provided 
€95,000 for the CEO, £25,000 for the CFO

‘Below threshold’
Annual Incentive Plan (cash element)
0% of salary

‘Target’

100% of salary 
(Target opportunity)

Annual Incentive Plan (equity element)
50% of salary 
0% of salary
(Target opportunity)

Performance Share Programme
0% vesting

100% vesting 
(95% of salary)

‘Stretch’

150% of salary 
(Maximum opportunity)

65% of salary 
(Maximum opportunity)

200% vesting 
(190% of salary)

CEO data assumes an exchange rate of €1.00 = £0.80

Service contracts
We employ Executive Directors on rolling service contracts with notice 
periods of 12 months from the Company and six months from the Executive 
Director. On termination of the contract, we may require the Executive 
Director not to work their notice period and as such pay them an amount 
equivalent to the salary, pension and benefits they would have received if 
they had been required to work their notice period. In addition, we may also, 
in exceptional circumstances, exercise our discretion to pay the Executive 
Director a proportion of the annual incentive that they would have received 
had they been required to work their notice period. Any entitlement or 
discretionary payment may be reduced in line with Executive Directors’ duty 
to mitigate losses, subject to applying our non-compete clause. 

In the case of a change in control which results in the termination of an 
Executive Director or a material alteration to their responsibilities or duties 
within 12 months of the event, the Executive Director would be entitled to 
receive 12 months base salary and 12 months target annual incentive, plus 
pension and benefits.

In 2012, we received comments from some of our shareholders about the 
provisions contained in our Executive Directors’ service contracts relating 
to the entitlement to an at-target annual incentive payout on a change of 
control, as well as eligibility to earn an annual incentive whilst serving notice. 
In the course of the year, we have reviewed these provisions, and going 
forward, the payment of any annual incentive following a change of control 
will be entirely discretionary and reflect the individual’s performance and 
contributions. This new policy applies to any Executive Director appointed 

after 1 November 2012 including Julie Brown, our new Chief Financial Officer. 
In the first year of employment Julie Brown’s notice period will be six months 
from the Company and three months from her. 

Executive 
Director
Olivier Bohuon
Julie Brown

Date of Service 
Contract
9 February 2011
7 November 2012

Effective  
Date
1 April 2011
4 February 2013

Notice period  
from company
12 months
6 months

We encourage our Executive Directors to serve as a Non-Executive Director 
of a maximum of one external company. Such appointments are subject 
to the approval of the Nomination & Governance Committee and any fees 
earned are retained by the Executive Director. Olivier Bohuon is a Member of 
the Supervisory Board at Virbac SA, and Adrian Hennah is a Non-Executive 
Director of Reed Elsevier plc. During 2012 Olivier Bohuon received €19,000, 
and Adrian Hennah received £65,000 in respect of these appointments.

Termination policy
Our policy regarding termination payments is to limit severance payments on 
termination to pre-established contractual arrangements. In the event that 
the employment of an Executive Director is terminated, any compensation 
payable will be determined in accordance with the terms of the service 
contract between the Company and the employee, as well as the rules of any 
incentive plans.

Under normal circumstances (excluding termination for gross misconduct), all 
leavers are entitled to receive termination payments in lieu of notice equal to 
base salary, pension and benefits. In the event an Executive Director leaves 
for reasons of ill-health, death, redundancy, or retirement in agreement with 
the Company, then the vesting of any outstanding Annual Cash Incentive 
and Equity Incentive Awards will generally depend on the Committee’s 
assessment of performance to date. Performance Share Awards will be 
pro-rated for time worked during the relevant performance period, and will 
remain subject to performance over the full performance period. For all other 
leavers, Annual Cash Incentive will generally be forfeited and outstanding 
Equity Incentive Awards and Performance Share Awards will lapse. The 
Committee retains discretion to alter these provisions on a case-by-case 
basis following a review of circumstances and to ensure fairness for both 
shareholders and participants.

Termination arrangements for Mr Hennah
Adrian Hennah voluntarily resigned as Chief Financial Officer with effect 
from 31 December 2012 to take up employment elsewhere. He was therefore 
not entitled to receive any termination payment. He worked up until 31 
December 2012 and was paid and received benefits up to that date in 
accordance with his service contract. As he was employed throughout the 
year, the Remuneration Committee has decided that it is appropriate for 
Adrian Hennah to receive an annual cash incentive of £585,800 in respect 
of the work he undertook during 2012. Further details are given on pages 80 
and 81. All unvested Performance Share Awards, Deferred Bonus Awards, 
options and Equity Incentive Awards lapsed on cessation of employment.

Policy on recruitment arrangements
We have clarified our position on the appointment of Executive Directors who 
are recruited externally. In many cases, someone appointed externally will 
forfeit sizeable cash bonuses and share awards if they choose to leave their 
former employer and join us. The Committee therefore believes that we need 
to retain the ability to compensate new hires for any bonus or share awards 
they give up in choosing to leave another employer to join Smith & Nephew. 
We will use our discretion in setting any such compensation, which will be 
decided on a case-by-case basis. As a point of policy, we will not provide 
compensation of greater value than the new appointee is giving up, and 
we will seek evidence from the previous employer to confirm the full details 
of bonus or share awards being forfeited. As far as possible, we will seek 
to replicate forfeited share awards using Smith & Nephew incentive plans, 
whilst at the same time, aiming for simplicity.

We have followed this policy when determining compensation for Julie 
Brown, our new Chief Financial Officer, who was appointed on 4 February 
2013.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
Remuneration arrangements for Julie Brown
Julie Brown’s remuneration package has been set in line with the Company’s 
existing remuneration policy, and for 2013 will be as follows:

Element of remuneration
Base salary
Pension
Annual Incentive Plan (cash)
Target
Maximum
Annual Incentive Plan (equity)
Target
Maximum
Performance Share Awards
Target
Maximum

£500,000
30% of salary

100% of salary 
150% of salary

50% of salary 
65% of salary

95% of salary 
190% of salary

In addition to the above, Julie Brown will receive partial compensation for 
unvested incentive awards forfeited on joining Smith & Nephew. She will 
be granted an award over 75,000 shares, vesting in three equal tranches in 
February 2014, February 2015 and February 2016, subject to her continued 
employment. This award partially reflects the value of unvested share 
awards from her previous employer that she forfeited when leaving their 
employment. On joining Smith & Nephew, Julie Brown has forfeited shares 
to the value of £1,434,000, which were due to vest from March 2013-2015 as 
follows:

Performance 
Shares

£1,099,000

Restricted Shares

£335,000

Vesting between March 2013 and March 
2015 subject to performance conditions 
relating to TSR and cash flow being 
satisfactorily met.
Vesting in March 2014 and subject to no 
further performance conditions other than 
continued employment. 

The Committee therefore believes that this award of 75,000 shares which 
is valued at £526,500 as at 19 February 2013 is appropriate and will help 
align Mrs Brown’s interests with those of our shareholders from the outset 
of her appointment. Given that the total value of the shares to be awarded is 
significantly less than the face value of shares forfeited and that not all the 
shares forfeited were subject to performance conditions, the Committee did 
not believe that it was appropriate for performance conditions to be applied 
to these shares over and above her continued employment.

Non-Executive Directors
Non-Executive Directors are engaged by the Company on the basis of 
letters of appointment. They are normally appointed for terms of three years, 
terminable at will, without notice by either the Group or the Director and 
without compensation. The Chairman is engaged on a letter of appointment 
and has a six-month notice period.

Date of 
appointment
Sir John Buchanan 3 February 2005
5 March 2010
Ian Barlow
1 March 2002
Pamela Kirby
1 March 2002
Brian Larcombe
1 August 2008
Joseph Papa
1 January 2012
Ajay Piramal
1 January 2001
Richard De Schutter
12 April 2012
Baroness Bottomley

Anticipated expiry 
Date of  
of current term(i)
current letters
26 April 2015
27 April 2012
5 March 2013
4 March 2016
1 January 2013 31 December 2013
1 January 2013 31 December 2013
31 July 2014
1 January 2012 31 December 2015
1 January 2013 31 December 2013
11 April 2015

1 August 2011

12 April 2012

(i) Subject to the annual re-election of Directors at the Company’s AGM.

79

The Board reviews the pay of the Non-Executive Directors and aims to 
set fees that are competitive with other companies of equivalent size and 
complexity. Non-Executive Directors are not entitled to receive awards under 
the Company’s long-term incentive plans. We do, however, require our Non-
Executive Directors to hold a personal stake in the Company equivalent to 
their basic annual fee. These shares may be held as Ordinary Shares or as 
ADSs held either by themselves or their immediate family. Details of the Non-
Executive Directors’ current shareholdings can be found on page 83.

Non-Executive Directors are paid a fixed basic annual fee. The Chairmen 
of the Audit, Remuneration and Ethics & Compliance Committees and the 
Senior Independent Director also receive an additional fee in recognition 
of their added responsibilities. An additional fee is also payable to Non-
Executive Directors in cases where intercontinental travel is necessary to 
attend Board and Committee meetings.

Remuneration in 2012
Main activities of the Remuneration  
Committee in 2012
The main work of the Remuneration Committee this year is described on 
page 69. Key activities have been:

 – Continued development of the new remuneration policy introduced last 
year and implementing new remuneration arrangements for the top 70 
senior executives to align remuneration with the updated Group strategy. 
 – Determination of remuneration package for Julie Brown, new Chief Financial 

Officer, and certain other Executive Officers on recruitment.

 – Consideration and updating of remuneration policies on compensation for 
amounts forfeited by executives recruited externally, termination payments 
in the event of a change of control and policy on shareholding guidelines.

 – Continued engagement with our largest shareholders and certain 

shareholder advisory bodies.

 – Consideration of new remuneration reporting requirements being 

introduced in 2014.

Remuneration Committee membership in 2012
As set out on page 69 of this Annual Report, my fellow members of the 
Remuneration Committee are Baroness Bottomley (joined the Committee on 
19 September 2012), Pamela Kirby, Brian Larcombe and Richard De Schutter. 
Details concerning the number of meetings held and the scope and role of 
our duties may be found on this page.

From time to time in 2012 attendees included Olivier Bohuon, Chief 
Executive Officer, Susan Swabey, Company Secretary, Helen Maye, Chief 
Human Resources Officer, Adrian Hennah, Chief Financial Officer and 
Bob Newcomb, SVP Global Rewards. The Chairman attended some of the 
meetings by invitation. 

Independent advice
During the year, the Committee received information and advice from 
Towers Watson, an independent executive remuneration consultancy firm 
appointed by the Committee in 2011. They provided advice on market trends, 
remuneration benchmarking and remuneration issues in general. Towers 
Watson also provided other human resources and compensation advice to 
the Company for levels below the Board. 

Throughout 2012, we were also advised by Aon Hewitt and Mercer Limited in 
relation to salary data, and by Kepler Associates in relation to the structure 
and content of the Directors’ Remuneration Report. All these consultants 
comply with the Code of Conduct for Remuneration Consultants and we are 
satisfied that their advice is objective and independent.

Base salary and benefits
With effect from 1 April 2012, we approved the following base salaries for the 
Executive Directors:

Olivier Bohuon 

Adrian Hennah

€1,050,000
£ 585,800 (left company on  
31 December 2012)

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Directors’ remuneration report continued

In February 2013, we reviewed the base salaries of the Executive Directors 
having considered general economic conditions and average salary 
increases across the rest of the Group of around 3%. The Committee has 
agreed that Chief Executive Officer, Olivier Bohuon, will receive an increase 
in his salary in line with the Group average. This is the first increase in Chief 
Executive Officer pay since he joined the Company in April 2011. Mrs Brown’s 
salary for 2013 (set on her appointment) is £500,000. As a result, the base 
salaries for the Executive Directors with effect from 1 April 2013 are as follows:

Olivier Bohuon 
Julie Brown

€1,081,500
£500,000

Similarly compliance – and all that follows from it relating to ethics and quality 
– is the responsibility of the Executive Directors, who must set the standards 
for the whole Group, and be measured on their execution. This is also true 
on Employee Engagement, where we want to motivate our leaders to exceed 
in providing vision and leadership and living our values of Performance, 
Innovation and Trust. 

The Committee reviewed the performance of Olivier Bohuon and Adrian 
Hennah against their agreed business objectives for 2012 and determined 
that Olivier Bohuon delivered very strongly against his objectives and 
that Adrian Hennah had consistently met his objectives for the year. Their 
achievements during the year include:

Pensions
During the period, Olivier Bohuon and Adrian Hennah both received a 
salary supplement of 30% of basic salary to apply towards their retirement 
savings in lieu of membership of a Company run pension scheme. They also 
received death in service cover of seven times basic salary, of which four 
times salary is payable as a lump sum with the balance used to provide any 
spouse and dependant pensions.

The same arrangements will apply in 2013 for Olivier Bohuon and Julie Brown.

Business objective
R&D investment

Succession planning

Adrian Hennah

Commentary on 2012 performance
Olivier Bohuon
Successfully managed investment levels during the 
year to fully support progress towards longer-term 
revenue targets in emerging markets. 
Ensured focus on robust 
succession planning 
resulting in minimal 
disruption or turnover of 
key roles. 

Completed succession 
planning for all key 
finance roles. 

2012 Annual Incentive Plan award
During 2012, the Annual Incentive Plan for Executive Directors was based on 
the achievement of specific financial and business objectives. 

For 2012, the financial and business objectives were as follows:

Financial objectives

Business objectives

70%

30%

Revenue (30%)
Trading profit (30%)
Trading cash (10%)
R&D investment
Succession planning
Employee engagement
Compliance
Development of product portfolio 
(Olivier Bohuon only)
Shared services (Adrian Hennah only)

In 2013, the financial and business objectives will remain the same. 

At the period end the Committee conducted an assessment of each 
Executive Director against their financial and business objectives.

In addition, the Committee has the discretion to apply a multiplier – positively 
or negatively – to the annual incentive assessment of an Executive Director, 
adjusting the total up or down by up to 10%. This rewards or penalises an 
Executive Director for ‘how’ they conduct themself in terms of leadership, 
corporate reputation, ethics and organisational behaviours and represent the 
Company both internally and externally. 

Over the period, underlying revenue growth was 2% (between target and 
maximum), trading profit was $965m (between target and maximum), and 
the trading profit to cash conversion ratio was 104% (above maximum). 

The business objectives are personal to each Executive Director, and are 
tailored to reflect their role and responsibilities during the year. These are set 
at the start of each year and will reflect some of the most important areas of 
strategic focus for the Group. Where objectives are repeated year-on-year, 
the Committee will set annual measurement criteria that are appropriate to 
motivate and measure an Executive Director’s performance in any one year. 

For instance, Innovation for Value is at the heart of our Strategic Priorities. Our 
success here is measured in terms of how we manage our R&D programmes 
and continue to develop our product portfolio to reflect the need to bring 
forward new technologies appropriate for our markets and customers 
globally. Ultimate responsibility for these vital programmes rests with our 
Executive Directors and we believe it was right to reflect the importance in 
their 2012 personal business objectives. 

Employee engagement Made significant effort 

to ensure employee 
engagement and 
effective 2-way 
communication with 
the wider employee 
population during a 
period of significant 
transistion including a 
91% participation rate 
in the global employee 
survey. 
Reinforced expectation 
for the highest levels of 
ethics and compliance 
through communication 
with, and training 
of, wider employee 
population. 
Oversaw the successful 
delivery of a significant 
number (exceeding 
expectations in some 
cases) of planned 
product launches and 
registrations during the 
year. 

Focused on delivering 
a balanced product 
portfolio globally. 
n/a

Compliance

Development of product 
portfolio  
(Olivier Bohuon only)

Shared services 
(Adrian Hennah only)

Achieved a >90% 
participation rate by the 
finance function in the 
global employee survey. 

Identified key focus areas 
for action in 2013. 

Ensured that all strategic 
plans, new products 
and new businesses 
were fully assessed for 
compliance risks. 

n/a

Completed 
implementation of 
Shared Services model 
and realised targeted 
cost savings. 

Successfully managed 
customer satisfaction 
survey, with overall score 
of 86%.

The Committee also considered the multiplier to the annual incentive 
assessment of Olivier Bohuon and Adrian Hennah and agreed that no 
multiplier was appropriate in respect of 2012. 

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201281

The Executive Directors’ performance against the targets set for 2012 was 
therefore as follows:

Olivier Bohuon: 2012

Performance share awards were made to Executive Directors under the 
Global Share Plan 2010 during the year. The levels of the awards in 2012 
were as follows:

Below 
threshold

Between 
threshold 
and target

Between 
target and 
maximum
✓
✓

Above 
maximum

✓

✓

Market value 
of award 
vesting at 
maximum

Market value 
of award 
vesting at 
target

Executive Directors

190% of salary

95% of salary

50% of the award will vest based on the Company’s TSR performance 
relative to a bespoke peer group of companies in the medical devices sector 
over a three-year period commencing 1 January 2012 as follows:

N/A

Below 
threshold

Between 
threshold 
and target

Between 
target and 
maximum
✓
✓

✓

Above 
maximum

TSR ranking within comparator group
Below median
Median
Upper quartile

Award vesting 
– % of salary
Nil
23.75%
95%

✓

Awards will vest on a straight line basis between these points. If the 
Company’s TSR performance is below median, none of this part of the award 
will vest.

Revenue (30%)
Trading profit (30%)
Trading cash (10%)
Business objectives (30%)
Multiplier (+/-10%)

Adrian Hennah: 2012

Revenue (30%)
Trading profit (30%)
Trading cash (10%)
Business objectives (30%)
Multiplier (+/-10%)

N/A

The bespoke peer group for the 2012 awards comprises the following 
companies:

The 2012 opportunity under the Annual Incentive Plan comprised two parts:

a)  a cash element (100% of salary at target, 150% maximum opportunity) and

b) an equity element (50% of salary at target, 65% maximum opportunity). 

The cash element is paid following the performance year. The equity element 
is a conditional award over ordinary shares made under the Global Share 
Plan 2010 vesting in equal annual tranches over three years, provided that 
individual and Group performance is sustained at an acceptable level each 
year. Share awards are subject to malus and will lapse in the event that 
individual and Group performance is not sustained over the respective 
performance period.

The assessment of the Committee resulted in the following awards for 2012:

Executive  
Director
Olivier Bohuon
Adrian Hennah

% of salary

Equity element
Cash element
Amount
Amount
126% €1,321,950
€682,500
100% £585,800 n/a – left on 31 December 2012

% of salary
65%

The equity element of the Annual Incentive Plan was introduced in 2012, so 
there were no awards due to vest from outstanding cycles in the year under 
review. It is intended that the Annual Incentive Plan will be operated in a 
similar manner for 2013. There will be no change to the target or maximum 
opportunities for the coming year or in the split between financial and 
business objectives.

2012 Performance Share Programme
The Group operates one long-term incentive plan – the Performance Share 
Programme.

Under the Performance Share Programme, conditional awards of shares 
vest after three years subject to the achievement of stretching performance 
targets relating to Total Shareholder Return (TSR) and free cashflow 
generation. Awards may be subject to clawback in the event of material 
financial mis-statement or misconduct.

– Arthrocare
– Bard
– Baxter
– Becton Dickinson
– Boston Scientific
– Coloplast Group

– Conmed
– Covidien
–  Edwards Life  
Sciences Corp

– Medtronic
– Nobel Biocar

– Nuvasive
– Orthofix
– Stryker
– St. Jude Medical
– Wright Medical
– Zimmer

The Group’s TSR performance and its performance relative to the comparator 
group will be independently monitored and reported to the Remuneration 
Committee by Towers Watson.

50% of the award is subject to free cashflow performance. The free cashflow 
target is a cumulative performance target over the three-year performance 
period. The inclusion of a cash measure in both the annual and long-term 
plans reflects its importance over both timescales. The measure for the 
long-term target is free cashflow, which is defined as net cash inflows from 
operating activities, less capital expenditure. Free cashflow is considered 
to be the most appropriate measure of cashflow performance because it 
relates to the cash generated to finance additional investment in business 
opportunities, debt repayments and distributions to shareholders. This 
measure includes significant elements of operational and financial 
performance and helps to align executives’ rewards with shareholder value 
creation.

The 50% of the 2012 award that is subject to free cashflow performance will 
vest as follows:

Cumulative free cashflow
Below $1.41 billion
$1.41 billion
$1.62 billion
$1.83 billion or more

Award vesting – % of salary
Nil
23.75%
47.5%
95%

Awards will vest on a straight line basis between these points. If the 
Company’s cashflow performance is below $1.41 billion, none of this part of 
the award will vest.

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It is intended that the Committee should have the discretion to adjust, but on 
an exceptional basis only, the free cashflow target during the performance 
period for material factors that would otherwise distort the performance 
measure in either direction. For example, adjustments may be required to 
reflect exchange rate movements, significant acquisitions or divestments, 
or major legal and taxation settlements. Any major adjustments to the 
calculation will be disclosed to shareholders. There is no retesting of 
performance. Executive Directors do not receive share options under the 
Performance Share Programme. 

Performance targets for 2013 Performance Share 
Programme (‘PSP’) awards 
It is proposed that awards made under the PSP in 2013 will vest after three 
years with 50% vesting on three-year relative TSR performance and 50% on 
cumulative free cashflow. No changes are proposed to the operation of the 
TSR element described above for 2012 PSP awards, for awards to be granted 
in 2013. The cumulative free cashflow targets for awards to be granted in 
2013 will be as follows:

Cumulative free cashflow
Below $1.5 billion
$1.55 billion
$1.78 billion
$2.01 billion or more

Award vesting – % of salary
Nil
23.75%
47.5%
95%

No other changes are proposed to the Performance Share Programme.

Deferred bonus arrangements prior to 2012
Prior to 2012, one-third of any annual bonus earned was compulsorily deferred 
into share awards that vest in equal tranches over three years, subject to 
the participant’s continued employment. Outstanding tranches of awards 
made to Executive Directors previously are shown on Page 86. No further 
performance conditions apply to these deferred share awards. On leaving 
employment voluntarily, Adrian Hennah’s unvested share awards lapsed.

Prior to 2012, share option awards were also made to Executive Directors 
under the 2004 Executive Share Option Plan and to other employees under 
the Global Share Plan 2010. Options granted to Executive Directors are 
subject to TSR performance relative to the major companies in the medical 
devices industry.

Adrian Hennah’s unvested awards (granted in 2010 and 2011) lapsed on his 
leaving Smith & Nephew. Olivier Bohuon was first granted an award under 
the 2004 Executive Share Option Plan in 2011, which will vest subject to 
performance over the three years ending 31 December 2013. Details of these 
awards can be found in the table on page 85 of this Report, and the vesting 
outcome will be reported in next year’s Directors’ Remuneration Report. 

Over the three years ended 31 December 2012 the Company was ranked 
10th out of 19 companies in the medical devices comparator group which 
meant that 33% of the options granted to a former Executive Director in 2010 
will vest on the 9 September 2013 as follows: 

Number of ADRs 
under option 
granted in 2010
11,073

Number of ADRs 
under option 
vesting in 2013
3,654

% vesting
33%

David Illingworth

(i) 

 The option granted in 2010 has been pro-rated for service during the 
performance period. 

Other share schemes
The Company also operates UK and International ShareSave Plans (and an 
Employee Stock Purchase Plan – ESPP – in the US), which are all-employee 
schemes that enable our employees to save on a regular basis and then buy 
shares in the Company. The Executive Directors are permitted to participate 
in the ShareSave Plan and details of their participation are included in the 
table on page 86.

Single figure
To aid transparency to our shareholders, the table below sets out a single 
figure for the total remuneration received by each Executive Director for the 
year to 31 December 2012.

Long-term incentive arrangements prior to 2012
Prior to 2012, conditional share awards were made to Executive Directors 
under the 2004 Performance Share Plan and to other executives under the 
Global Share Plan 2010.

2012 
(000)

The vesting of awards made to Executive Directors was linked to adjusted 
EPS (‘EPSA’) growth, and the number of shares could then be increased 
subject to TSR performance relative to the major companies in the medical 
devices industry.

Olivier Bohuon
Adrian Hennah

Salary 
supplement in 
lieu of pension
€315
£175

Fixed pay

Subtotal
€1,458
£782

Salary
€1,050
£584

Benefits
€93
£23

Annual 
cash 
incentive

Annual 
equity 
incentive

Perfor- 
mance 
Shares

€1,322

€683

£586

N/A

N/A

N/A

2012 
(000)

Olivier 
Bohuon
Adrian 
Hennah

2012 (000)
CEO
CFO

Pay for performance

Share 
options

Subtotal

N/A

€2,005

N/A

£586

Total remuneration
€3,463
£1,368

Adrian Hennah’s unvested awards (granted in 2010 and 2011) lapsed on 
his leaving Smith & Nephew. Olivier Bohuon was first granted an award 
under the 2004 Performance Share Plan in 2011, which will vest subject to 
performance over the three years ending 31 December 2013. Details of these 
awards can be found in the table on page 85 of this Report, and the vesting 
outcome will be reported in next year’s Directors’ Remuneration Report. 

ESPA growth over the three years ended 31 December 2012 was 18.7% 
(adjusted for the Bioventus transaction) against the compounded market 
growth rate of 11.7%. Over the same period, the Company was ranked 10th 
out of 19 companies in the medical devices comparator group which meant 
that the multiplier of one was applied to the number of shares vesting under 
the ESPA target. As a result the following award made in 2010 to a former 
Executive Director will vest on 1 March 2013.

David Illingworth

Number of ADRs 
under 2010 award
16,720

Number of ADRs 
vesting in 2013
4,347

% vesting
26%

(i) 

 The award granted to David Illingworth will be settled prior to 15 March 
2013 in accordance with S409A of the US Internal Revenue Code. 

(ii)   The number of shares under the 2010 award has been pro-rated for 

service during the performance period. 

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201283

The figures have been calculated as follows:

Base salary: the actual salary earned for the year

Annual benefits: the taxable value of benefits received in the year

Pension: the value of the salary supplement paid by the Company in lieu of a pension

Annual Cash Incentive: the value of the cash incentive payable for performance over 2012

Equity Incentive Award: the value of share awards granted for performance over 2012

Performance Shares: the value on 31 December 2012 of shares vesting in 2013 subject to performance over the three-year period ended 31 December 2012

Share options: the embedded gain on 31 December 2012 of options vesting subject to performance over the three-year period ended 31 December 2012

CEO data assumes an exchange rate of €1.00 = £0.81

Shareholding requirements
We believe that one of the best ways our senior executives can act and feel like shareholders is for them to hold a significant number of shares in the 
Company. We therefore expect our Executive Directors to build up a holding of Smith & Nephew shares of two times their base salary. In order to reinforce 
this expectation, we require them to retain 50% of all shares vesting under Company share plans (after tax) until this holding has been met recognising that 
differing international tax regimes affect the pace at which an Executive Director may fulfil the shareholding holding requirement. When calculating whether or 
not this requirement has been met, we will include Ordinary Shares or ADSs held by the individual and by their immediate family and the intrinsic value of any 
vested but unexercised options. 

We also require our Non-Executive Directors to hold a personal stake in the Company equivalent to their basic annual fee.

The table on page 86 shows the shares/ADRs held by the Directors. 

Dilution headroom
The Committee ensures at all times that the number of new shares which may be issued under any share-based plans, including all employee plans, does not 
exceed 10% of the Company’s issued share capital over any rolling ten-year period (of which up to 5% may be issued to satisfy awards under the Company’s 
discretionary share plans. The Committee monitors headroom closely when granting awards over shares, taking into account the number of options or shares 
that might be expected to lapse or be forfeited before vesting or exercise. In the event that insufficient new shares are available, there are processes in place to 
purchase shares in the market to satisfy vesting awards and to net-settle option exercises.

Over the previous ten years (2003 to 2012), the number of new shares issued under out share plans has been as follows: 

All-employee share plans  

Discretionary share plans  

8,349,735 (0.92% of issued share capital as at 19 February 2013)

34,234,721 (3.78% of issued share capital as at 19 February 2013)

Non-Executive Director fees
Non-Executive Director and Chairman fees in 2012 were as follows:

Basic annual fee
Committee Chairman and Senior Independent Director fee
Intercontinental travel fee (per meeting)
Chairman’s fee

Distribution statement

Attributable profit for the year
Dividends declared and paid during the year
Total Group spend on remuneration

Fee in UK Sterling
£63,000
£15,000
£3,500
£400,000

Fee in US Dollars
$120,000
$27,000
$7,000
–

For the year to 
31 December 2012
$729m
$186m
$886m

For the year to 
31 December 2011
$582m
$146m
$930m

Fee in Euros
€84,250
€20,000
€5,000
–

% change
+25%
+27%
–5%

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Directors’ remuneration report continued

Directors’ emoluments and pensions
The following sections of the Report up to ‘Total Shareholder Return’ have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP in accordance with the Regulations.

a) Salaries and Fees

Chairman (Non-Executive)
Sir John Buchanan
Executive Directors
Olivier Bohuon
Adrian Hennah (ii)
Non-Executive Directors
Ian Barlow
Baroness Bottomley (iii)
Geneviève Berger (iv)
Pamela Kirby
Brian Larcombe
Joseph Papa
Ajay Piramal (v)
Richard De Schutter
Rolf Stomberg (vi)

Salaries  
and fees

Benefits (i)

Annual  
Incentive

Salary 
Supplement in 
lieu of pensions

Total 2012 (viii)

Total 2011 (viii)
Thousands

£407

€1,050
£584

£85
£52
€75
£85
£70
$189
£74
$189
€24

–

 €93
£23

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–

–

£407

£420

€1,322
£585

€315
£175

€2,780
£1,367

€3,507
£1,308

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

£85
£52
€75
£85
£70
$189
£74
$189
€24

£80
–
€87
£75
£65
$173
–
$181
€98

(i)  Benefits shown in the table above include cash allowances and benefits in kind.
(ii)  Retired on 31 December 2012.
(iii)  Appointed on 12 April 2012.
(iv)  Retired on 1 November 2012.
(v)  Appointed on 1 January 2012.
(vi)  Retired on 12 April 2012.
(vii)   David Illingworth, who retired in August 2011, received a consultancy fee of $40,109 and benefits of £13,880 during the year to 31 December 2012 in 

accordance with his retirement arrangements.

(viii) Total Executive and Non-Executive Directors’ emoluments for 2012 amounted to $7,468,000 (2011 – $10,423,000). 

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012b) Directors’ Share Options

Options as at
1 January 2012
(number)

Granted during 
2012
(number)

Exercise price 
of options
granted

Exercised 
during 2012
(number)

Lapsed during
2012
(number)

Options as at
31 December
2012
(number)

Olivier Bohuon (i)
Adrian Hennah (i)
David Illingworth (i)

(ii) (v)
Total

151,698
430,713
294,612

173,935
468,547

–
–
–

–
–

–
–
–

–

–
229,905
294,612

113,825
408,437

–
200,808
–

4,745
4,745

151,698
–
–

55,365
55,365

85

Range of 
exercisable 
dates of 
options held at
31 December
2012 (v)
(date)
09/2014-
09/2021

08/2013-
03/2014

Average 
exercise
price

607p
537.58p
592.43p

$39.55 (iv)

(i)  Options over Ordinary Shares granted under Executive Share Option Plans at prices below the market price at 31 December 2012 of 679.50p. 
(ii)  Options over ADSs granted under 2004 Executive Share Option Plans. Figures in the above table show the equivalent number of Ordinary Shares. 
(iii)  Options granted under the UK ShareSave Scheme.
(iv)  Per ADS.
(v)  The number of shares under option at 1 January 2012 has been reduced to reflect options over 170,055 shares which lapsed during 2011.

The range in the market price of the Company’s Ordinary Shares during the year was 580.00p to 693.00p and the market price at 31 December 2012 was 
679.50p. The gain made by Adrian Hennah on his exercise of options during the year was £357,789.13 (2011 – £nil, 2010 – £2,781). In 2012 the gain made by 
David Illingworth on exercising share options was $329,564 plus £38,310 (2011 – $nil). On 7 February 2013, 67% of the options granted to David Illingworth 
under the 2004 Executive Share Option plan lapsed following completion of the performance period. The remainder of options will vest and become capable 
of being exercised on the third anniversary of the grant in August 2013.

c) Long-Term Incentive Plan Awards

Number 
of shares 
awarded at
1 January
2012 
(number)

Award type

RSA 
PSP 
EIA

PSP 
EIA

200,000
227,547
–
427,547

451,008
–
451,008

Awards 
during 
the year 
(number)

–
267,304
91,446
358,750

177,170
46,623
223,793

Market price 
on award

Vested award 
(number)

Market price 
on vesting

Number 
of shares 
awarded at
31 December
2012 
(number)

Lapsed 
award 
(number)

Latest 
performance 
period (date)

–
622p
622p

622p
622p

(66,667)
–
–
(66,667)

(141,920)
–
(141,920)

633.5p
–
–
–

665p

–
–
–
–

133,333
494,851
91,446
719,630

(486,258)
(46,623)
(532,881)

–
–
–

03/2014
12/2013
12/2014

–

PSP

261,455

–

–

(156,510)

$50.18 (v)

(21,345)

83,600

12/2012

Olivier Bohuon
(i)
(ii) 
(iii) 
Total 
Adrian Hennah
(ii) 
(iii) 
Total 
David Illingworth
(iii) (iv)

(i)  Award made over Ordinary Shares under Listing Rule 9.
(ii)  Awards made over ADSs under the 2004 Performance Share Plan. Figures in the above table show the equivalent number of Ordinary Shares. 
(iii)  Or date of retirement if earlier.
(iv)   The number of shares awarded at 1 January 2012 has been reduced to reflect awards over 256,185 shares which lapsed and 45,578 shares which vested 

during 2011.

(v)  Per ADS.

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Directors’ remuneration report continued

On 7 February 2013, 74% of the awards granted to David Illingworth in 2010 under the 2004 Performance Share Plan lapsed following completion of the 
performance period. In accordance with S409A of the US Internal Revenue Code the remainder of David Illingworth’s award will be paid out prior to 15 March 2013.

d) Deferred Bonus Plan

The vesting of awards under the Deferred Bonus Plan is dependent upon continued employment within the Group throughout the three-year vesting period. 
Provided the condition of continued employment is met, one third of the total award will vest in each of the three years, on the award’s anniversary.

Adrian Hennah

(i)  Lapsed 31 December 2012. 

Total as at
1 January 2012
67,407

Awarded 
during 2012
–

Vested during 
2012
34,398

Lapsed  
during 2012
33,009

Total as at
31 December 
2012 (i)
–

Senior Management Remuneration
The Group’s administrative, supervisory and management body (‘the senior management’) is comprised, for US reporting purposes, of Executive Directors and 
Executive Officers. Details of the current Executive Directors and Executive Officers are given on pages 58 to 61.

In respect of the financial year 2011, the total compensation (excluding pension emoluments but including cash payments under the performance related 
incentive plans) paid to the senior management for the year was $14,941,000 (2011 – $17,403,000, 2010 – $11,689,000), the total compensation for loss of office 
was $nil (2011 – $1,161,000, 2010 – $nil), the aggregate increase in accrued pension benefits was $229,000 (2011 – increase of $387,000, 2010 – increase of 
$16,000) and the aggregate amounts provided for under the supplementary schemes was $537,000 (2011 – $711,000, 2010 – $1,141,000).

During 2012, senior management were granted Equity Incentive Awards over 365,276 shares, performance share awards over 857,210 shares and conditional 
share awards over a total of 29,700 shares under the Global Share Plan 2010, and options over 3,027 shares under the employee ShareSave plans. As of 19 
February 2013, the Senior Management (11 persons) owned  156,491 shares and 44,423 ADSs, constituting less than 0.1% of the issued share capital of the 
Company. Senior Management also held as of this date, options to purchase 832,759 shares, conditional share awards over 282,512 shares and 20,346 ADSs, 
Equity Incentive Awards over 318,653 shares, performance share awards over 1,032,415 shares and 38,134 ADSs awarded under the 2004 Performance Share 
Plan and the Global Share Plan 2010; and awards over 19,119 shares and 6,319 ADSs under the Deferred Bonus Plan.

Directors’ interests
Beneficial interests of the Directors in the Ordinary Shares of the Company are as follows:

1 January 2012  
(Or at date of appointment)
Options
–
–
151,698
430,713
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

Shares
159,483
–
–
167,968
18,000
1,750
–
15,000
40,000
5,000
–
250,000
13,100

31 December 2012  
(Or at date of retirement)
Options
Shares
–
162,695
–
–
151,698
37,015
–
279,511
–
18,000
–
1,750
–
17,500
–
15,000
–
40,000
–
12,500
–
–
–
220,000
–
13,100

shareholding as 
% of base salary 
(annual fee for 
NEDs) (ii)
%
286
–
29
–
201 
–
195 
167 
446 
113 
– 
1,990 
–

Shares
162,695
–
37,015
–
18,000
–
17,500
15,000
40,000
12,500
–
220,000

19 February 2013 (i)
Options 
–
–
151,698
–
– 
– 
–
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

Numbers
Sir John Buchanan
Julie Brown
Olivier Bohuon (ii)
Adrian Hennah
Ian Barlow
Geneviève Berger
Baroness Bottomley
Pamela Kirby
Brian Larcombe
Joseph Papa
Ajay Piramal
Richard De Schutter
Rolf Stomberg

Total

670,301

582,411

817,071

151,678

522,710

151,698

(i)  The latest practicable date for this Annual Report.
(ii)   Calculated using closing share price of 702p per ordinary share and $54.28 per ADS on 19 February 2013, and an exchange rate of £1/€1.1562.
(iii)   In addition, Olivier Bohuon holds 50,000 Deferred Shares. Following the redenomination of Ordinary Shares into US dollars on 23 January 2006, the 

Company issued 50,000 Deferred Shares, calculated using the latest practicable date share price. These shares are normally held by the Chief Executive 
Officer and are not listed on any Stock Exchange and have extremely limited rights attached to them.

The total holdings of the Directors represent less than 1% of the Ordinary share capital of the Company.

The register of Directors’ interests, which is open to inspection at the Company’s registered office, contains full details of Directors’ shareholdings and share 
options.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 201287

Total shareholder return
A graph of the Company’s TSR performance compared to that of the TSR of the FTSE100 index is shown below in accordance with Schedule 8 to the 
Regulations.

Smith & Nephew – Five year Total Shareholder Return (measured in UK sterling, based on monthly spot values)

Smith & Nephew

FTSE 100

30%

20%

10%

0

–10%

–20%

–30%

–40%

Dec 07

Jan 09

Jan 10

Jan 11

Jan 12

Source: DataStream

However, as we compare the Company’s performance to a tailored sector peer group of medical devices companies (see page 70), when considering TSR 
performance in the context of the 2004 Performance Share Plan and Global Share Plan 2010, we feel that the following graph showing the TSR performance of 
this peer group is also of interest.

Smith & Nephew - Five year Total Shareholder Return (measured in US dollars, based on monthly spot values)

Smith & Nephew

Medical Device – Median

20%

10%

0

–10%

–20%

–30%

–40%

–50%

Dec 07

Jan 09

Jan 10

Jan 11

Jan 12

Source: DataStream

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7 Accounts and other information

Our business model and strategy will 
drive long-term financial performance.

Directors’ responsibilities for the accounts 

Independent auditor’s UK report 

Independent auditor’s US reports 

Group accounts 

Notes to the Group accounts 

Independent auditor’s report for the Company 

Company accounts 

Notes to the Company accounts 

Group Information 

Investor Information 

89

90

91

92

96

139

140

141

144

151

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
Directors’ responsibilities for the accounts

89

The Directors are responsible for preparing the Group and Company accounts 
in accordance with applicable United Kingdom law and regulations. As a 
consequence of the Company’s Ordinary Shares being traded on the New York 
Stock Exchange (in the form of American Depositary Shares) the Directors are 
responsible for the preparation and filing of an annual report on Form 20-F with 
the US Securities and Exchange Commission.  

The Directors are required to prepare Group accounts for each financial year, in 
accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’) as adopted 
by the European Union which present fairly the financial position of the Group and 
the financial performance and cash flows of the Group for that period. In preparing 
those Group accounts, the Directors are required to:  

–  Select suitable accounting policies in accordance with IAS 8 Accounting 

Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors and then apply them 
consistently;  

–  Present information, including accounting policies, in a manner that provides 

relevant, reliable, comparable and understandable information;  

–  Provide additional disclosures when compliance with the specific requirements 
in IFRS is insufficient to enable users to understand the impact of particular 
transactions, other events and conditions on the Group’s financial position and 
financial performance; and  

–  State that the Group has complied with IFRS, subject to any material departures 

disclosed and explained in the accounts.  

Under United Kingdom law the Directors have elected to prepare the Company 
accounts in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting 
Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law), which are 
required by law to give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Company 
and of the profit or loss of the Company for that period. In preparing the Company 
accounts, the Directors are required to:  

–  Select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;  
–  Make judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;  

–  State whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, 

subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the accounts; 
and  

–  Prepare the accounts on a going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to 

presume that the Company will continue in business.  

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

The Directors are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose 
with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Group and the 
Company and enable them to ensure that the accounts comply with the 
Companies Act 2006 and, in the case of the Group accounts, Article 4 of the IAS 
Regulation. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Group 
and the Company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and 
detection of fraud and other irregularities.  

The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate 
and financial information included on the Group’s website. It should be noted that 
information published on the internet is accessible in many countries with different 
legal requirements. Legislation in the UK governing the preparation and 
dissemination of accounts may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions. 

Directors’ responsibility statement pursuant 
to disclosure and transparency Rule 4 
The Directors confirm that, to the best of each person’s knowledge:  

–  The Group accounts in this report, which have been prepared in accordance 

with IFRS as adopted by the European Union and those parts of the Companies 
Act 2006 applicable to companies reporting under IFRS, give a true and fair 
view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit of the Group taken 
as a whole;  

–  The Company accounts in this report, which have been prepared in 

accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice 
and the Companies Act 2006, give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, 
financial position and profit of the Company; and  

–  The ‘Financial review and principal risks’ section contained in the accounts 

includes a fair review of the development and performance of the business and 
the financial position of the Company and the Group taken as a whole, together 
with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties that they face.  

By order of the Board, 20 February 2013  

Susan Swabey  
Company Secretary 

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90

Independent auditor’s UK Report  

Independent Auditor’s Report to the Members of 
Smith & Nephew plc 
We have audited the Group accounts of Smith & Nephew plc for the year ended 
31 December 2012 which comprise the Group Income Statement, the Group 
Statement of Comprehensive Income, the Group Balance Sheet, the Group Cash 
Flow Statement, the Group Statement of Changes in Equity and the related notes 
1 to 24. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their 
preparation is applicable law and International Financial Reporting Standards 
(IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union.  

This report is made solely to the Company’s members, as a body, in accordance 
with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been 
undertaken so that we might state to the Company’s members those matters 
we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. 
To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility 
to anyone other than the Company and the Company’s members as a body, 
for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.  

Respective responsibilities of directors and auditor  
As explained more fully in the Directors’ Responsibility Statement set out on 
page 89 the Directors are responsible for the preparation of the Group financial 
statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. Our 
responsibility is to audit and express an opinion on the Group financial statements 
in accordance with applicable law and International Standards on Auditing (UK 
and Ireland). Those standards require us to comply with the Auditing Practices 
Board’s (APB’s) Ethical Standards for Auditors.  

Scope of the audit of the accounts 
An audit involves obtaining evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the 
financial statements sufficient to give reasonable assurance that the financial 
statements are free from material misstatement, whether caused by fraud or error. 
This includes an assessment of: whether the accounting policies are appropriate 
to the Group’s circumstances and have been consistently applied and adequately 
disclosed; the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by the 
Directors; and the overall presentation of the financial statements. In addition, we 
read all the financial and non-financial information in the annual report to identify 
material inconsistencies with the audited financial statements. If we become 
aware of any apparent material misstatements or inconsistencies we consider 
the implications for our report. 

Opinion on financial statements 
In our opinion the Group financial statements:  

–  give a true and fair view of the state of the Group’s affairs as at 31 December 

2012 and of its profit for the year then ended;  

–  have been properly prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the 

European Union; and  

–  have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies 

Act 2006 and Article 4 of the IAS Regulation.  

Opinion on other matter prescribed by the 
Companies Act 2006 
In our opinion the information given in the Directors’ Report for the financial year 
for which the Group financial statements are prepared is consistent with the 
Group financial statements.  

Matters on which we are required to report 
by exception 
We have nothing to report in respect of the following:  

Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report to you if, in our opinion:  

–  certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or  

–  we have not received all the information and explanations we require for 

our audit.  

Under the Listing Rules we are required to review:  

–  the Directors’ statement, set out on page 51, in relation to going concern; and  

–  the part of the Corporate Governance Statement relating to the Company’s 
compliance with the nine provisions of the UK Corporate Governance Code; 
and 

–  certain elements of the report to shareholders by the Board on directors’ 

remuneration. 

Other matter 
We have reported separately on the Company financial statements of Smith & 
Nephew plc for the year ended 31 December 2012 and on the information in the 
Directors’ Remuneration Report that is described as having been audited.  

Separate Opinion in Relation to IFRSs 
As explained in Note 1 to the Group financial statements, the Group in addition to 
complying with its legal obligation to comply with IFRS as adopted by the European 
Union, has also compiled with IFRS as issued by the International Accounting 
Standards Board.  

In our opinion the Group financial statements give a true and fair view, in 
accordance with IFRS, of the state of the Group’s affairs as at 31 December 2012 
and of its profit for the year then ended.  

Les Clifford (Senior statutory auditor)  
for and on behalf of Ernst & Young LLP, Statutory Auditor  
London  
20 February 2013  

Independent auditor’s US Reports 

Report of Independent Registered Public 

Report of Independent Registered Public 

Accounting Firm to the Board of Directors and 

Accounting Firm to the Board of Directors and 

Shareholders of Smith & Nephew plc 

Shareholders of Smith & Nephew plc  

We have audited the accompanying Group balance sheets of Smith & Nephew 

We have audited Smith & Nephew plc’s internal control over financial reporting 

plc as of 31 December 2012 and 2011, and the related Group income 

statements, Group statements of comprehensive income, Group cash flow 

as of 31 December 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control – 

Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organisations 

statements and Group statements of changes in equity for each of the three years 

of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria).  

in the period ended 31 December 2012. These financial statements are the 

responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express 

an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.  

Smith & Nephew plc’s management is responsible for maintaining effective 

internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness 

of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company 

‘Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting’. Our 

Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan 

responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over 

and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial 

financial reporting based on our audit.  

statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, 

on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial 

statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and 

significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall 

account presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis 

for our opinion.  

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company 

Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan 

and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective 

internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. 

Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial 

reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and 

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all 

evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based 

material respects, the consolidated financial position of Smith & Nephew plc at 

on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered 

31 December 2012 and 2011, and the consolidated results of its operations 

and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended 31 December 

2012, in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by 

the International Accounting Standards Board and International Financial Reporting 

Standards as adopted by the European Union.  

necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable 

basis for our opinion.  

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to 

provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and 

the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company 

generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over 

Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Smith & Nephew plc’s internal control 

financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the 

over financial reporting as of 31 December 2012, based on criteria established in 

maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the 

Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring 

transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable 

Organisations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated 20 February 

assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of 

2013 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.  

Ernst & Young LLP  

London, England  

20 February 2013  

financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, 

and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in 

accordance with authorisations of management and directors of the company; 

and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection 

of unauthorised acquisition, use or disposition of the company’s assets that could 

have a material effect on the financial statements.  

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may 

not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of 

effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become 

inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance 

with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.  

In our opinion, Smith & Nephew plc maintained, in all material respects, effective 

internal control over financial reporting as of 31 December 2012, based on the 

COSO criteria.  

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company 

Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Group balance sheets of Smith & 

Nephew plc as of 31 December 2012 and 2011, and the related Group income 

statements, Group statements of comprehensive income, Group cash flow 

statements and Group statements of changes in equity for each of the three years 

in the period ended 31 December 2012 and our report dated 20 February 2013 

expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.  

Ernst & Young LLP  

London, England  

20 February 2013  

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012Independent auditor’s UK Report  

Independent auditor’s US Reports 

Independent Auditor’s Report to the Members of 

Matters on which we are required to report 

Smith & Nephew plc 

by exception 

We have audited the Group accounts of Smith & Nephew plc for the year ended 

We have nothing to report in respect of the following:  

31 December 2012 which comprise the Group Income Statement, the Group 

Statement of Comprehensive Income, the Group Balance Sheet, the Group Cash 

Flow Statement, the Group Statement of Changes in Equity and the related notes 

1 to 24. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their 

preparation is applicable law and International Financial Reporting Standards 

(IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union.  

This report is made solely to the Company’s members, as a body, in accordance 

with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been 

undertaken so that we might state to the Company’s members those matters 

we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. 

To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility 

to anyone other than the Company and the Company’s members as a body, 

for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.  

Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report to you if, in our opinion:  

–  certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or  

–  we have not received all the information and explanations we require for 

our audit.  

Under the Listing Rules we are required to review:  

–  the Directors’ statement, set out on page 51, in relation to going concern; and  

–  the part of the Corporate Governance Statement relating to the Company’s 

compliance with the nine provisions of the UK Corporate Governance Code; 

–  certain elements of the report to shareholders by the Board on directors’ 

and 

remuneration. 

Other matter 

We have reported separately on the Company financial statements of Smith & 

Nephew plc for the year ended 31 December 2012 and on the information in the 

Directors’ Remuneration Report that is described as having been audited.  

Separate Opinion in Relation to IFRSs 

As explained in Note 1 to the Group financial statements, the Group in addition to 

complying with its legal obligation to comply with IFRS as adopted by the European 

Union, has also compiled with IFRS as issued by the International Accounting 

Standards Board.  

In our opinion the Group financial statements give a true and fair view, in 

accordance with IFRS, of the state of the Group’s affairs as at 31 December 2012 

and of its profit for the year then ended.  

Les Clifford (Senior statutory auditor)  

for and on behalf of Ernst & Young LLP, Statutory Auditor  

London  

20 February 2013  

Respective responsibilities of directors and auditor  

As explained more fully in the Directors’ Responsibility Statement set out on 

page 89 the Directors are responsible for the preparation of the Group financial 

statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. Our 

responsibility is to audit and express an opinion on the Group financial statements 

in accordance with applicable law and International Standards on Auditing (UK 

and Ireland). Those standards require us to comply with the Auditing Practices 

Board’s (APB’s) Ethical Standards for Auditors.  

Scope of the audit of the accounts 

An audit involves obtaining evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the 

financial statements sufficient to give reasonable assurance that the financial 

statements are free from material misstatement, whether caused by fraud or error. 

This includes an assessment of: whether the accounting policies are appropriate 

to the Group’s circumstances and have been consistently applied and adequately 

disclosed; the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by the 

Directors; and the overall presentation of the financial statements. In addition, we 

read all the financial and non-financial information in the annual report to identify 

material inconsistencies with the audited financial statements. If we become 

aware of any apparent material misstatements or inconsistencies we consider 

the implications for our report. 

Opinion on financial statements 

In our opinion the Group financial statements:  

–  give a true and fair view of the state of the Group’s affairs as at 31 December 

2012 and of its profit for the year then ended;  

–  have been properly prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the 

European Union; and  

–  have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies 

Act 2006 and Article 4 of the IAS Regulation.  

Opinion on other matter prescribed by the 

Companies Act 2006 

In our opinion the information given in the Directors’ Report for the financial year 

for which the Group financial statements are prepared is consistent with the 

Group financial statements.  

Report of Independent Registered Public 
Accounting Firm to the Board of Directors and 
Shareholders of Smith & Nephew plc 
We have audited the accompanying Group balance sheets of Smith & Nephew 
plc as of 31 December 2012 and 2011, and the related Group income 
statements, Group statements of comprehensive income, Group cash flow 
statements and Group statements of changes in equity for each of the three years 
in the period ended 31 December 2012. These financial statements are the 
responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express 
an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.  

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company 
Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan 
and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial 
statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, 
on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial 
statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and 
significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall 
account presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis 
for our opinion.  

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all 
material respects, the consolidated financial position of Smith & Nephew plc at 
31 December 2012 and 2011, and the consolidated results of its operations 
and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended 31 December 
2012, in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by 
the International Accounting Standards Board and International Financial Reporting 
Standards as adopted by the European Union.  

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company 
Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Smith & Nephew plc’s internal control 
over financial reporting as of 31 December 2012, based on criteria established in 
Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring 
Organisations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated 20 February 
2013 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.  

Ernst & Young LLP  
London, England  
20 February 2013  

91

Report of Independent Registered Public 
Accounting Firm to the Board of Directors and 
Shareholders of Smith & Nephew plc  
We have audited Smith & Nephew plc’s internal control over financial reporting 
as of 31 December 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control – 
Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organisations 
of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria).  

Smith & Nephew plc’s management is responsible for maintaining effective 
internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness 
of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying 
‘Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting’. Our 
responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over 
financial reporting based on our audit.  

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company 
Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan 
and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective 
internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. 
Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial 
reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and 
evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based 
on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered 
necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable 
basis for our opinion.  

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to 
provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and 
the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with 
generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over 
financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the 
maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the 
transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable 
assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of 
financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, 
and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in 
accordance with authorisations of management and directors of the company; 
and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection 
of unauthorised acquisition, use or disposition of the company’s assets that could 
have a material effect on the financial statements.  

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may 
not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of 
effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become 
inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance 
with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.  

In our opinion, Smith & Nephew plc maintained, in all material respects, effective 
internal control over financial reporting as of 31 December 2012, based on the 
COSO criteria.  

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company 
Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Group balance sheets of Smith & 
Nephew plc as of 31 December 2012 and 2011, and the related Group income 
statements, Group statements of comprehensive income, Group cash flow 
statements and Group statements of changes in equity for each of the three years 
in the period ended 31 December 2012 and our report dated 20 February 2013 
expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.  

Ernst & Young LLP  
London, England  
20 February 2013  

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overviewstrategy and performancemarketplace and business reviewsustainability reviewfinancial review  and principal riskscorporate  governanceaccounts and  other informationsection 7 accounts and other information92

Group income statement 

Revenue 

Cost of goods sold 

Gross profit 

Selling, general and administrative expenses 

Research and development expenses 

Operating profit 

Interest receivable 

Interest payable 

Other finance costs 

Share of results of associates 

Profit on disposal of net assets held for sale 

Profit before taxation 

Taxation 

Attributable profit for the year (i) 

Earnings per Ordinary Share (i) 

Basic 

Diluted 

Notes  

2

3

2 & 3

4

4

4

11

22

5

6

Year ended 
31 December
2012 
$ million 

Year ended  
31 December 
2011  
$ million  

Year ended 
31 December
2010 
$ million 

At  

31 December  

2012  

$ million 

At 

31 December 

2011 

$ million

Notes

4,137

(1,070)

3,067

(2,050)

(171)

846

11

(9)

(3)

4

251

1,100

(371)

729

81.3¢

80.9¢

4,270  

(1,140) 

3,130  

(2,101) 

(167) 

862  

4  

(12) 

(6) 

–  

–  

848  

(266) 

582  

65.3¢ 

65.0¢ 

3,962 

(1,031)

2,931 

(1,860)

(151)

920 

3 

(18)

(10)

–

–

895 

(280)

615 

69.3¢

69.2¢

Group statement of comprehensive income 

Equity attributable to owners of the Company: 

Year ended 
31 December 
2012 
$ million 

Notes

Attributable profit for the year (i) 

Other comprehensive income: 

Cash flow hedges – interest rate swaps 

– losses arising in the year 

– losses transferred to income statement for the year 

Cash flow hedges – forward foreign exchange contracts 

–(losses)/gains arising in the year 

–(gains)/losses transferred to inventories for the year 

Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations  

Exchange on borrowings classified as net investment hedges 

Actuarial (losses)/gains on retirement benefit obligations 

Taxation on other comprehensive income (ii) 

19

 5

Other comprehensive income/(expense) for the year, net of taxation

Total comprehensive income for the year (i)

(i)  Attributable to equity holders of the Company and wholly derived from continuing operations. 

729

–

–

(1)

(6)

36

1

(13)

20

37

766

Year ended  
31 December  
2011  
$ million  

582  

Year ended 
31 December 
2010
$ million 

615 

(1) 

1  

1  

13  

(32) 

(4) 

(70) 

24  

(68) 

514  

(1)

4 

(3)

1 

66 

(14)

26 

(7)

72 

687 

(ii)  Taxation on items relating to components of other comprehensive income comprises a credit of $18m related to retirement benefit obligations  

(2011 – credit of $27m, 2010 – charge of $7m) and a credit of $2m related to cash flow hedges (2011 – charge of $3m, 2010 – $nil). 

The Notes on pages 96 to 138 are an integral part of these accounts. 

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The accounts were approved by the Board and authorised for issue on 20 February 2013 and are signed on its behalf by: 

Liabilities directly associated with assets held for sale 

Total liabilities 

Total equity and liabilities 

Sir John Buchanan 

Chairman 

Olivier Bohuon 

Chief Executive Officer 

The Notes on pages 96 to 138 are an integral part of these accounts.

7

8

9

10

11

11

19

17

12

13

15

22

20

20

15

19

14

18

17

15

14

18

22

793 

1,186 

1,064 

2 

116 

167 

6 

164 

3,498 

901 

1,065 

178 

2,144 

– 

5,642 

193 

488 

(735) 

121 

3,817 

3,884 

430 

266 

8 

63 

61 

828 

38 

656 

59 

177 

930 

– 

1,758 

5,642 

783 

1,096 

423 

4 

13 

–

–

223 

2,542 

859 

1,037 

184 

2,080 

125 

4,747 

191 

413 

(766)

91 

3,258 

3,187 

16 

287 

8 

45 

66 

422 

306 

564 

78 

171 

1,119 

19 

1,560 

4,747 

Group balance sheet 

Assets 

Non-current assets: 

Property, plant and equipment 

Goodwill 

Intangible assets 

Investments 

Investments in associates 

Loans to associates 

Retirement benefit asset 

Deferred tax assets 

Current assets: 

Inventories 

Trade and other receivables 

Cash and bank 

Assets held for sale 

Total assets 

Equity and liabilities 

Share capital 

Share premium 

Treasury shares 

Other reserves 

Retained earnings 

Total equity 

Non-current liabilities: 

Long-term borrowings 

Retirement benefit obligations 

Other payables 

Provisions  

Deferred tax liabilities 

Current liabilities: 

Bank overdrafts and loans 

Trade and other payables  

Provisions 

Current tax payable 

Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Group income statement 

Group balance sheet 

93

Year ended 

31 December

2012 

$ million 

Year ended  

31 December 

2011  

$ million  

Year ended 

31 December

2010 

$ million 

At  
31 December  
2012  
$ million 

At 
31 December 
2011 
$ million

Notes

Assets 

Non-current assets: 

Property, plant and equipment 

Goodwill 

Intangible assets 

Investments 

Investments in associates 

Loans to associates 

Retirement benefit asset 

Deferred tax assets 

Current assets: 

Inventories 

Trade and other receivables 

Cash and bank 

Assets held for sale 

Total assets 

Equity and liabilities 

Equity attributable to owners of the Company: 

Share capital 

Share premium 

Treasury shares 

Other reserves 

Retained earnings 

Total equity 

Non-current liabilities: 

Long-term borrowings 

Retirement benefit obligations 

Other payables 

Provisions  

Deferred tax liabilities 

Current liabilities: 

Bank overdrafts and loans 

Trade and other payables  

Provisions 

Current tax payable 

Liabilities directly associated with assets held for sale 

Total liabilities 

Total equity and liabilities 

7

8

9

10

11

11

19

17

12

13

15

22

20

20

15

19

14

18

17

15

14

18

22

793 

1,186 

1,064 

2 

116 

167 

6 

164 

3,498 

901 

1,065 

178 

2,144 

– 

5,642 

193 

488 

(735) 

121 

3,817 

3,884 

430 

266 

8 

63 

61 

828 

38 

656 

59 

177 

930 

– 

1,758 

5,642 

783 

1,096 

423 

4 

13 

–

–

223 

2,542 

859 

1,037 

184 

2,080 

125 

4,747 

191 

413 

(766)

91 

3,258 

3,187 

16 

287 

8 

45 

66 

422 

306 

564 

78 

171 

1,119 

19 

1,560 

4,747 

The accounts were approved by the Board and authorised for issue on 20 February 2013 and are signed on its behalf by: 

Sir John Buchanan 
Chairman 

Olivier Bohuon 
Chief Executive Officer 

The Notes on pages 96 to 138 are an integral part of these accounts.

015914_Smith&Nephew_AR12_p89-164.indd   93

25/02/2013   11:45

Selling, general and administrative expenses 

Research and development expenses 

Revenue 

Cost of goods sold 

Gross profit 

Operating profit 

Interest receivable 

Interest payable 

Other finance costs 

Share of results of associates 

Profit on disposal of net assets held for sale 

Profit before taxation 

Taxation 

Attributable profit for the year (i) 

Earnings per Ordinary Share (i) 

Basic 

Diluted 

Notes  

2 & 3

2

3

4

4

4

5

6

11

22

Group statement of comprehensive income 

4,137

(1,070)

3,067

(2,050)

(171)

846

11

(9)

(3)

4

251

1,100

(371)

729

81.3¢

80.9¢

–

–

(1)

(6)

36

1

(13)

20

37

766

4,270  

(1,140) 

3,130  

(2,101) 

(167) 

862  

4  

(12) 

(6) 

–  

–  

848  

(266) 

582  

65.3¢ 

65.0¢ 

(1) 

1  

1  

13  

(32) 

(4) 

(70) 

24  

(68) 

514  

3,962 

(1,031)

2,931 

(1,860)

(151)

920 

3 

(18)

(10)

–

–

895 

(280)

615 

69.3¢

69.2¢

(1)

4 

(3)

1 

66 

(14)

26 

(7)

72 

687 

Notes

Year ended 

31 December 

2012 

$ million 

729

Year ended  

31 December  

2011  

$ million  

582  

Year ended 

31 December 

2010

$ million 

615 

Attributable profit for the year (i) 

Other comprehensive income: 

Cash flow hedges – interest rate swaps 

– losses arising in the year 

– losses transferred to income statement for the year 

Cash flow hedges – forward foreign exchange contracts 

–(losses)/gains arising in the year 

–(gains)/losses transferred to inventories for the year 

Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations  

Exchange on borrowings classified as net investment hedges 

Actuarial (losses)/gains on retirement benefit obligations 

Taxation on other comprehensive income (ii) 

Other comprehensive income/(expense) for the year, net of taxation

Total comprehensive income for the year (i)

(i)  Attributable to equity holders of the Company and wholly derived from continuing operations. 

19

 5

(ii)  Taxation on items relating to components of other comprehensive income comprises a credit of $18m related to retirement benefit obligations  

(2011 – credit of $27m, 2010 – charge of $7m) and a credit of $2m related to cash flow hedges (2011 – charge of $3m, 2010 – $nil). 

The Notes on pages 96 to 138 are an integral part of these accounts. 

overviewstrategy and performancemarketplace and business reviewsustainability reviewfinancial review  and principal riskscorporate  governanceaccounts and  other informationsection 7 accounts and other information 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
94

Group cash flow statement 

Group statement of changes in equity 

At 1 January 2010 

Total comprehensive income (i) 

Equity dividends declared and paid 

Purchase of own shares 

Share-based payments recognised 

Cost of shares transferred to beneficiaries

Issue of ordinary share capital (iv) 

At 31 December 2010 

Total comprehensive income (i) 

Equity dividends declared and paid 

Purchase of own shares 

Share-based payments recognised 

Deferred taxation on share based payments 

Cost of shares transferred to beneficiaries

Issue of ordinary share capital (iv) 

At 31 December 2011 

Total comprehensive income (i) 

Equity dividends declared and paid 

Share-based payments recognised 

Cost of shares transferred to beneficiaries

Issue of ordinary share capital (iv) 

At 31 December 2012 

–

–

–

–

–

1

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2

191

191

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

14

396

17

413

75

488

Share 

capital 

$ million

190

Share 

premium 

$ million

382

Treasury

Shares (ii)

$ million

(794)

Other 

Reserves (iii) 

$ million 

63 

53 

Retained 

earnings 

$ million

2,338

634

(132)

–

–

(5)

–

21

(778)

(6)

18

(766)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

31

116 

(25) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

91 

30 

–

21

(13)

–

2,848

539

(146)

–

30

(2)

(11)

–

3,258

736

(186)

34

(25)

–

Total 

equity 

$ million

2,179

687

(132)

2,773

514

(146)

(5)

21

8

15

(6)

30

(2)

7

17

3,187

766

(186)

34

6

77

193

(735)

121 

3,817

3,884

(iii)  Other reserves comprises gains and losses on cash flow hedges, foreign exchange differences on translation of foreign operations and the difference arising as a result of translating share 

capital and share premium at the rate ruling on the date of redenomination instead of the rate at the balance sheet date. The cumulative translation adjustments within Other Reserves at 31 

(i)  Attributable to equity holders of the Company and wholly derived from continuing operations. 

(ii)  Refer to Note 20.2 of the Group Financial Statements for further information. 

December 2012 were $124m (2011 – $87m, 2010 – $123m). 

(iv)  Issue of Ordinary Share Capital as a result of options being exercised. 

The Notes on pages 96 to 138 are an integral part of these accounts. 

Year ended 
31 December 
2012 
$ million

Year ended  
31 December  
2011  
$ million 

Year ended 
31 December 
2010
$ million

Notes

Cash flows from operating activities  

Profit before taxation 

Net interest (receivable)/payable 

Depreciation, amortisation and impairment 

Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment and software 

Share-based payments expense 

Share of results of associates 

Dividends received from associates 

Profit on disposal of net assets held for sale 

Increase in retirement benefit obligations 

Decrease in inventories 

Increase in trade and other receivables 

Increase/(Decrease) in trade and other payables and provisions 

Cash generated from operations (i) (ii) 

Interest received 

Interest paid 

Income taxes paid 

Net cash inflow from operating activities 

Cash flows from investing activities  

Acquisitions (net of $2m of cash received in 2011) 

Proceeds on disposal of net assets held for sale

Capital expenditure 

Investment in associate 

Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment and software 

Net cash used in investing activities 

Cash flows from financing activities  

Proceeds from issue of ordinary share capital 

Treasury shares purchased 

Proceeds of borrowings due within one year 

Settlement of borrowings due within one year

Proceeds on borrowings due after one year 

Settlement of borrowings due after one year 

Proceeds from own shares 

Settlement of currency swaps 

Equity dividends paid 

Net cash from/(used in) financing activities 

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

Exchange adjustments 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 

4

24

11

11

22

22

22

2

11

21

21

21

21

21

20

21

21

21

1,100 

(2)

312

12

34

(4)

7

(251)

(36)

12

(5)

5

1,184

4 

(8)

(278)

902

(782) 

103

(265)

(10)

–

(954)

77 

–

40

(296) 

415

(1)

6 

(1)

(186)

54

2 

161 

4 

167

848  

8  

297  

9  

30  

–  

–  

–  

(44) 

40  

(47) 

(6) 

1,135  

4  

(12) 

(285) 

842  

(33) 

– 

(321) 

– 

– 

(354) 

17  

(6) 

78  

(330) 

92  

(232) 

7  

(1) 

(146) 

(521) 

(33) 

195  

(1) 

161  

895 

15 

273 

15

21 

–

–

–

(31)

21 

(100)

2

1,111 

3 

(20)

(235)

859 

–

–

(315)

–

8

(307)

15 

(5)

17 

–

277 

(714)

8 

(3)

(132)

(537)

15 

174 

6 

195 

(i) 

Includes $55m (2011 – $20m, 2010 – $16m) of outgoings on restructuring and rationalisation expenses. 

(ii) 

Includes $3m (2011 – $1m, 2010 – $nil) of acquisition related costs and $nil (2011 – $3m, 2010 – $5m) of costs unreimbursed by insurers relating to macrotextured knee revisions. 

The Notes on pages 96 to 138 are an integral part of these accounts.

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Group cash flow statement 

Group statement of changes in equity 

At 1 January 2010 

Total comprehensive income (i) 

Equity dividends declared and paid 

Purchase of own shares 

Share-based payments recognised 

Cost of shares transferred to beneficiaries

Issue of ordinary share capital (iv) 

At 31 December 2010 

Total comprehensive income (i) 

Equity dividends declared and paid 

Purchase of own shares 

Share-based payments recognised 

Deferred taxation on share based payments 

Cost of shares transferred to beneficiaries

Issue of ordinary share capital (iv) 

At 31 December 2011 

Total comprehensive income (i) 

Equity dividends declared and paid 

Share-based payments recognised 

Cost of shares transferred to beneficiaries

Issue of ordinary share capital (iv) 

At 31 December 2012 

Year ended 

31 December 

2012 

$ million

Year ended  

31 December  

2011  

$ million 

Year ended 

31 December 

2010

$ million

Notes

Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment and software 

Cash flows from operating activities  

Profit before taxation 

Net interest (receivable)/payable 

Depreciation, amortisation and impairment 

Share-based payments expense 

Share of results of associates 

Dividends received from associates 

Profit on disposal of net assets held for sale 

Increase in retirement benefit obligations 

Decrease in inventories 

Increase in trade and other receivables 

Increase/(Decrease) in trade and other payables and provisions 

Cash generated from operations (i) (ii) 

Interest received 

Interest paid 

Income taxes paid 

Net cash inflow from operating activities 

Cash flows from investing activities  

Acquisitions (net of $2m of cash received in 2011) 

Proceeds on disposal of net assets held for sale

Capital expenditure 

Investment in associate 

Net cash used in investing activities 

Cash flows from financing activities  

Proceeds from issue of ordinary share capital 

Treasury shares purchased 

Proceeds of borrowings due within one year 

Settlement of borrowings due within one year

Proceeds on borrowings due after one year 

Settlement of borrowings due after one year 

Proceeds from own shares 

Settlement of currency swaps 

Equity dividends paid 

Net cash from/(used in) financing activities 

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

Exchange adjustments 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 

Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment and software 

4

24

11

11

22

22

22

2

11

21

21

21

21

21

20

21

21

21

1,100 

(2)

312

12

34

(4)

7

(251)

(36)

12

1,184

(5)

5

4 

(8)

(278)

902

(782) 

103

(265)

(10)

–

(954)

77 

–

40

(296) 

415

(1)

6 

(1)

(186)

54

2 

161 

4 

167

848  

8  

297  

9  

30  

–  

–  

–  

(44) 

40  

(47) 

(6) 

1,135  

4  

(12) 

(285) 

842  

(33) 

(321) 

– 

– 

– 

(354) 

17  

(6) 

78  

(330) 

92  

(232) 

7  

(1) 

(146) 

(521) 

(33) 

195  

(1) 

161  

895 

15 

273 

15

21 

–

–

–

1,111 

(31)

21 

(100)

2

3 

(20)

(235)

859 

–

–

–

8

(315)

(307)

15 

(5)

17 

–

277 

(714)

8 

(3)

(132)

(537)

15 

174 

6 

195 

(i) 

Includes $55m (2011 – $20m, 2010 – $16m) of outgoings on restructuring and rationalisation expenses. 

(ii) 

Includes $3m (2011 – $1m, 2010 – $nil) of acquisition related costs and $nil (2011 – $3m, 2010 – $5m) of costs unreimbursed by insurers relating to macrotextured knee revisions. 

The Notes on pages 96 to 138 are an integral part of these accounts.

95

Total 
equity 
$ million

2,179

687

(132)

(5)

21

8

15

2,773

514

(146)

(6)

30

(2)

7

17

3,187

766

(186)

34

6

77

Other 
Reserves (iii) 
$ million 

63 

53 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

116 

(25) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

91 

30 

– 

– 

– 

– 

Retained 
earnings 
$ million

2,338

634

(132)

–

21

(13)

–

2,848

539

(146)

–

30

(2)

(11)

–

3,258

736

(186)

34

(25)

–

–

–

(5)

–

21

–

(778)

–

–

(6)

–

–

18

–

(766)

–

–

–

31

–

Share 
capital 
$ million

190

Share 
premium 
$ million

382

Treasury
Shares (ii)
$ million

(794)

–

–

–

–

–

1

191

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

191

–

–

–

–

2

193

–

–

–

–

–

14

396

–

–

–

–

–

–

17

413

–

–

–

–

75

488

(735)

121 

3,817

3,884

(i)  Attributable to equity holders of the Company and wholly derived from continuing operations. 

(ii)  Refer to Note 20.2 of the Group Financial Statements for further information. 

(iii)  Other reserves comprises gains and losses on cash flow hedges, foreign exchange differences on translation of foreign operations and the difference arising as a result of translating share 
capital and share premium at the rate ruling on the date of redenomination instead of the rate at the balance sheet date. The cumulative translation adjustments within Other Reserves at 31 
December 2012 were $124m (2011 – $87m, 2010 – $123m). 

(iv)  Issue of Ordinary Share Capital as a result of options being exercised. 

The Notes on pages 96 to 138 are an integral part of these accounts. 

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96

Notes to the Group accounts

1 Basis of preparation 
Smith & Nephew plc (the ‘Company’) is a public limited company incorporated in 
England and Wales. In these accounts, ‘Group’ means the Company and all its 
subsidiaries. The principal activities of the Group are to develop, manufacture, 
market and sell medical devices in the sectors of Advanced Surgical Devices 
and Advanced Wound Management. 

As required by the European Union’s IAS Regulation and the Companies Act 
2006, the Group has prepared its accounts in accordance with International 
Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’) as adopted by the European Union (‘EU’) 
effective as at 31 December 2012. The Group has also prepared its accounts in 
accordance with IFRS as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board 
(‘IASB’) effective as at 31 December 2012. IFRS as adopted by the EU differs in 
certain respects from IFRS as issued by the IASB. However, the differences have 
no impact for the periods presented. 

The preparation of accounts in conformity with IFRS requires management 
to use estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets 
and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the 
accounts and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the 
reporting period. The accounting policies requiring management to use significant 
estimates and assumptions are; inventories, impairment, retirement benefits, 
contingencies and provisions and are discussed under Critical Accounting Policies 
within the ‘Financial review and principal risks’ section on page 51. Although these 
estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of current events and 
actions, actual results ultimately may differ from those estimates. 

The Directors continue to adopt the going concern basis for accounting in 
preparing the annual financial statements. The Directors have a reasonable 
expectation that the Group has adequate resources to continue in operational 
existence for the foreseeable future. 

Consolidation 
The Group accounts include the accounts of Smith & Nephew plc (the ‘Company’) 
and its subsidiaries for the periods during which they were members of the Group. 

A subsidiary is an entity controlled by the Group. Control comprises the power to 
govern the financial and operating policies of the investee so as to obtain benefit 
from its activities and is achieved through direct or indirect ownership of voting 
rights. Subsidiaries are consolidated in the Group accounts from the date that the 
Group obtains control, and continue to be consolidated until the date that such 
control ceases. Intercompany transactions, balances and unrealised gains and 
losses on transactions between group companies are eliminated on 
consolidation. All subsidiaries have year ends which are co-terminus with 
the Group’s. 

Recognition of financial assets and liabilities 
Financial assets and liabilities are recognised on a trade date basis in the Group’s 
balance sheet when the Group becomes party to the contractual provisions of the 
instrument. The Group carries borrowings in the Balance Sheet at amortised cost. 

Foreign currencies 

2 Business segment information 

2.1 Revenue by business segment and geography 

Functional and presentation currency 
The Group accounts are presented in US Dollars, which is the Company’s 
functional currency. 

Foreign currency transactions 
Transactions in foreign currencies are recorded at the exchange rate ruling 
at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in 
foreign currencies are retranslated at the rate of exchange ruling at the balance 
sheet date. 

Foreign operations 
Balance sheet items of foreign operations are translated into US Dollars on 
consolidation at year-end rates of exchange. Income statement items and the 
cash flows of overseas subsidiary undertakings and associated undertakings are 
translated at average rates as an approximation to actual transaction rates, with 
actual transaction rates used for large one off transactions. 

Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign entity 
are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign entity and translated at the year-
end rates of exchange. 

The following are recognised in Other comprehensive income and are presented 
in ‘Other reserves’ within equity: exchange differences on the translation at closing 
rates of exchange of non-US Dollar opening net assets; the differences arising 
between the translation of profits into US Dollars at actual (or average, as an 
approximation) and closing exchange rates; to the extent that the hedging 
relationship is effective, the difference on translation of foreign currency 
borrowings or swaps that are used to finance or hedge the Group’s net 
investments in foreign operations; and the movement in the fair value of forward 
foreign exchange contracts used to hedge forecast foreign exchange cash flows. 
All other exchange differences are taken to the income statement. 

The exchange rates used for the translation of currencies into US Dollars that have 
the most significant impact on the Group results were: 

2012 

2011 

2010

Average rates 

Sterling

Euro

Swiss Franc

Year-end rates

Sterling

Euro

Swiss Franc

1.58 

1.28 

1.07 

1.63 

1.32 

1.09 

1.60 

1.39 

1.13 

1.55 

1.29 

1.06 

1.54

1.32

0.96

1.57

1.34

1.07

New IFRS accounting standards 
A number of new standards, amendments to standards and interpretations are 
effective for annual periods beginning after 1 January 2012 and have not been 
applied in preparing the Group accounts. None of these are expected to have a 
significant effect on the financial statements of the group, except for IFRS 9 
Financial Instruments. The Group does not plan to adopt this standard early and 
the extent of the impact has not been determined. 

The Orthopaedics and Endoscopy business units, reported separately in the 

Group accounts for the year ended 31 December 2011, have been combined into 

Accounting policy 

a single operating division named Advanced Surgical Devices. This segmentation 

reflects the revised Group structure announced in August 2011. Revenue, trading 

profit, operating profit, total assets, total liabilities, capital expenditure, depreciation, 

amortisation, impairment, other significant information and average employees 

by business segment comparative figures have been restated to reflect this 

revised segmentation. 

For management purposes, the Group is organised into business segments 

according to the nature of its products and has two business segments – 

Advanced Surgical Devices and Advanced Wound Management. The types 

of products and services offered by each business segment are: 

–  Smith & Nephew’s Advanced Surgical Devices business offers the following 

products and technologies: 

o Orthopaedic reconstruction implants which include hip, knee and shoulder 

joints as well as ancillary products such as bone cement and mixing systems 

used in cemented reconstruction joint surgery. 

o Orthopaedic trauma fixation products consisting of internal and external 

devices and other products, including shoulder fixation and orthobiological 

materials used in the stabilisation of severe fractures and deformity 

correction procedures. 

o Sports medicine products, which offer surgeons a broad array of instruments, 

technologies and implants necessary to perform minimally invasive surgery 

of the joints, including knee, hip and shoulder repair. 

o Arthroscopy Enabling Technologies which offer healthcare providers a variety 

of technologies such as fluid management equipment for surgical access 

and monitors to assist with visualisation inside the joints; radio frequency 

wands, electromechanical and mechanical blades, and hand instruments 

for removing damaged tissue. 

–  Smith & Nephew’s Advanced Wound Management business offers a range 

of products from initial wound bed preparation through to full wound closure. 

Revenue by 

geographic market 

These products are targeted at chronic wounds associated with the older 

population, such as pressure sores and venous leg ulcers. There are also 

products for the treatment of wounds such as burns and invasive surgery 

that impact the wider population. 

Management monitors the operating results of its business segments separately 

for the purposes of making decisions about resource allocation and performance 

assessment. Group financing (including interest receivable and payable) 

and income taxes are managed on a group basis and are not allocated 

to business segments. 

United Kingdom

Other Established 

Markets 

United States

Emerging and 

International Markets 

Revenue comprises sales of products and services to third parties at amounts 

invoiced net of trade discounts and rebates, excluding taxes on revenue. 

Revenue from the sale of products is recognised upon transfer to the customer 

of the significant risks and rewards of ownership. This is generally when goods 

are delivered to customers. Sales of inventory located at customer premises and 

available for customers’ immediate use are recognised when notification is 

received that the product has been implanted or used. Appropriate provisions 

for returns, trade discounts and rebates are deducted from revenue. Rebates 

comprise retrospective volume discounts granted to certain customers on 

attainment of certain levels of purchases from the Group. These are accrued 

over the course of the arrangement based on estimates of the level of business 

expected and adjusted at the end of the arrangement to reflect actual volumes. 

2012  

$ million 

2011 

$ million

2010 

$ million

Revenue by 

business segment 

Advanced Surgical 

Devices 

Advanced Wound 

Management 

2012  

$ million 

2011 

$ million

2010 

$ million

3,108 

1,029 

4,137 

297 

1,706 

1,651 

483 

4,137 

3,251

1,019

4,270

291

1,769

1,756

454

4,270

3,050

912

3,962

283

1,606

1,707

366

3,962

such as high definition cameras, digital image capture, scopes, light sources 

There are no material sales between business segments. 

The following tables present revenue, profit, asset and liability information 

Revenue has been allocated by basis of origin. No revenue from a single customer 

regarding the Group’s operating segments. Investments in associates and loans 

is in excess of 10% of the Group’s revenue. 

to associates is segmentally allocated to Advanced Surgical Devices. 

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
Notes to the Group accounts

1 Basis of preparation 

Smith & Nephew plc (the ‘Company’) is a public limited company incorporated in 

England and Wales. In these accounts, ‘Group’ means the Company and all its 

subsidiaries. The principal activities of the Group are to develop, manufacture, 

market and sell medical devices in the sectors of Advanced Surgical Devices 

and Advanced Wound Management. 

As required by the European Union’s IAS Regulation and the Companies Act 

2006, the Group has prepared its accounts in accordance with International 

Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’) as adopted by the European Union (‘EU’) 

effective as at 31 December 2012. The Group has also prepared its accounts in 

accordance with IFRS as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board 

(‘IASB’) effective as at 31 December 2012. IFRS as adopted by the EU differs in 

certain respects from IFRS as issued by the IASB. However, the differences have 

no impact for the periods presented. 

The preparation of accounts in conformity with IFRS requires management 

to use estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets 

and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the 

accounts and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the 

reporting period. The accounting policies requiring management to use significant 

estimates and assumptions are; inventories, impairment, retirement benefits, 

contingencies and provisions and are discussed under Critical Accounting Policies 

within the ‘Financial review and principal risks’ section on page 51. Although these 

estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of current events and 

actions, actual results ultimately may differ from those estimates. 

The Directors continue to adopt the going concern basis for accounting in 

preparing the annual financial statements. The Directors have a reasonable 

expectation that the Group has adequate resources to continue in operational 

existence for the foreseeable future. 

Consolidation 

The Group accounts include the accounts of Smith & Nephew plc (the ‘Company’) 

and its subsidiaries for the periods during which they were members of the Group. 

A subsidiary is an entity controlled by the Group. Control comprises the power to 

govern the financial and operating policies of the investee so as to obtain benefit 

from its activities and is achieved through direct or indirect ownership of voting 

rights. Subsidiaries are consolidated in the Group accounts from the date that the 

Group obtains control, and continue to be consolidated until the date that such 

control ceases. Intercompany transactions, balances and unrealised gains and 

losses on transactions between group companies are eliminated on 

consolidation. All subsidiaries have year ends which are co-terminus with 

the Group’s. 

Recognition of financial assets and liabilities 

Financial assets and liabilities are recognised on a trade date basis in the Group’s 

balance sheet when the Group becomes party to the contractual provisions of the 

instrument. The Group carries borrowings in the Balance Sheet at amortised cost. 

Foreign currencies 

Functional and presentation currency 

functional currency. 

Foreign currency transactions 

The Group accounts are presented in US Dollars, which is the Company’s 

Transactions in foreign currencies are recorded at the exchange rate ruling 

at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in 

foreign currencies are retranslated at the rate of exchange ruling at the balance 

sheet date. 

Foreign operations 

Balance sheet items of foreign operations are translated into US Dollars on 

consolidation at year-end rates of exchange. Income statement items and the 

cash flows of overseas subsidiary undertakings and associated undertakings are 

translated at average rates as an approximation to actual transaction rates, with 

actual transaction rates used for large one off transactions. 

Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign entity 

are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign entity and translated at the year-

end rates of exchange. 

The following are recognised in Other comprehensive income and are presented 

in ‘Other reserves’ within equity: exchange differences on the translation at closing 

rates of exchange of non-US Dollar opening net assets; the differences arising 

between the translation of profits into US Dollars at actual (or average, as an 

approximation) and closing exchange rates; to the extent that the hedging 

relationship is effective, the difference on translation of foreign currency 

borrowings or swaps that are used to finance or hedge the Group’s net 

investments in foreign operations; and the movement in the fair value of forward 

foreign exchange contracts used to hedge forecast foreign exchange cash flows. 

All other exchange differences are taken to the income statement. 

The exchange rates used for the translation of currencies into US Dollars that have 

the most significant impact on the Group results were: 

2012 

2011 

2010

Average rates 

Sterling

Euro

Swiss Franc

Year-end rates

Sterling

Euro

Swiss Franc

1.58 

1.28 

1.07 

1.63 

1.32 

1.09 

1.60 

1.39 

1.13 

1.55 

1.29 

1.06 

1.54

1.32

0.96

1.57

1.34

1.07

New IFRS accounting standards 

A number of new standards, amendments to standards and interpretations are 

effective for annual periods beginning after 1 January 2012 and have not been 

applied in preparing the Group accounts. None of these are expected to have a 

significant effect on the financial statements of the group, except for IFRS 9 

Financial Instruments. The Group does not plan to adopt this standard early and 

the extent of the impact has not been determined. 

97

2 Business segment information 
The Orthopaedics and Endoscopy business units, reported separately in the 
Group accounts for the year ended 31 December 2011, have been combined into 
a single operating division named Advanced Surgical Devices. This segmentation 
reflects the revised Group structure announced in August 2011. Revenue, trading 
profit, operating profit, total assets, total liabilities, capital expenditure, depreciation, 
amortisation, impairment, other significant information and average employees 
by business segment comparative figures have been restated to reflect this 
revised segmentation. 

For management purposes, the Group is organised into business segments 
according to the nature of its products and has two business segments – 
Advanced Surgical Devices and Advanced Wound Management. The types 
of products and services offered by each business segment are: 

–  Smith & Nephew’s Advanced Surgical Devices business offers the following 

products and technologies: 

o Orthopaedic reconstruction implants which include hip, knee and shoulder 

joints as well as ancillary products such as bone cement and mixing systems 
used in cemented reconstruction joint surgery. 

o Orthopaedic trauma fixation products consisting of internal and external 

devices and other products, including shoulder fixation and orthobiological 
materials used in the stabilisation of severe fractures and deformity 
correction procedures. 

o Sports medicine products, which offer surgeons a broad array of instruments, 
technologies and implants necessary to perform minimally invasive surgery 
of the joints, including knee, hip and shoulder repair. 

o Arthroscopy Enabling Technologies which offer healthcare providers a variety 
of technologies such as fluid management equipment for surgical access 
such as high definition cameras, digital image capture, scopes, light sources 
and monitors to assist with visualisation inside the joints; radio frequency 
wands, electromechanical and mechanical blades, and hand instruments 
for removing damaged tissue. 

–  Smith & Nephew’s Advanced Wound Management business offers a range 
of products from initial wound bed preparation through to full wound closure. 
These products are targeted at chronic wounds associated with the older 
population, such as pressure sores and venous leg ulcers. There are also 
products for the treatment of wounds such as burns and invasive surgery 
that impact the wider population. 

Management monitors the operating results of its business segments separately 
for the purposes of making decisions about resource allocation and performance 
assessment. Group financing (including interest receivable and payable) 
and income taxes are managed on a group basis and are not allocated 
to business segments. 

The following tables present revenue, profit, asset and liability information 
regarding the Group’s operating segments. Investments in associates and loans 
to associates is segmentally allocated to Advanced Surgical Devices. 

2.1 Revenue by business segment and geography 

Accounting policy 

Revenue comprises sales of products and services to third parties at amounts 
invoiced net of trade discounts and rebates, excluding taxes on revenue. 
Revenue from the sale of products is recognised upon transfer to the customer 
of the significant risks and rewards of ownership. This is generally when goods 
are delivered to customers. Sales of inventory located at customer premises and 
available for customers’ immediate use are recognised when notification is 
received that the product has been implanted or used. Appropriate provisions 
for returns, trade discounts and rebates are deducted from revenue. Rebates 
comprise retrospective volume discounts granted to certain customers on 
attainment of certain levels of purchases from the Group. These are accrued 
over the course of the arrangement based on estimates of the level of business 
expected and adjusted at the end of the arrangement to reflect actual volumes. 

Revenue by 
business segment 

Advanced Surgical 
Devices 

Advanced Wound 
Management 

2012  
$ million 

2011 
$ million

2010 
$ million

3,108 

1,029 

4,137 

3,251

1,019

4,270

3,050

912

3,962

There are no material sales between business segments. 

2012  
$ million 

2011 
$ million

2010 
$ million

Revenue by 
geographic market 

United Kingdom

Other Established 
Markets 

United States

Emerging and 
International Markets 

297 

1,706 

1,651 

483 

4,137 

291

1,769

1,756

454

4,270

283

1,606

1,707

366

3,962

Revenue has been allocated by basis of origin. No revenue from a single customer 
is in excess of 10% of the Group’s revenue. 

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98

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

2 Business segment information continued 

2.2 Trading and operating profit by business segment 
Trading profit is a trend measure which presents the long-term profitability of the Group excluding the impact of specific transactions that management considers affects 
the Group’s short-term profitability. The Group presents this measure to assist investors in their understanding of trends. The Group has identified the following items, 
where material, as those to be excluded from operating profit when arriving at trading profit: acquisition and disposal related items including amortisation of acquisition 
intangibles and impairments; significant restructuring events; gains and losses arising from legal disputes; and uninsured losses. Operating profit reconciles to trading 
profit as follows: 

Operating profit 

Acquisition related costs 

Restructuring and rationalisation expenses 

Amortisation of acquisition intangibles and impairments 

Legal provision 

Trading profit 

Trading profit by business segment  

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

Operating profit by business segment 
reconciled to attributable profit for the year 

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

Operating profit 

Net interest receivable/(payable) 

Other finance costs 

Share of results of associates 

Profit on disposal on net assets held for sale 

Taxation 

Attributable profit for the year 

Notes

3

3

8 & 9

3

2012 
$ million

2011  
$ million 

2010 
$ million

846

11

65

43

–

965

728

237

965

632

214

846

2

(3)

4

251

(371)

729

862 

– 

40 

36 

23 

961 

714 

247 

961 

630 

232 

862 

(8) 

(6) 

– 

– 

(266) 

582 

920

–

15

34

–

969

736

233

969

700

220

920

(15)

(10)

–

–

(280)

615

2.3 Assets and liabilities by business segment and geography 

Business Segment 

2012 

$ million

2011  

$ million 

2010 

$ million

Assets held for sale (relating to Advanced Surgical Devices business segment)

Balance sheet 

Assets: 

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

Operating assets by business segment 

Unallocated corporate assets 

Total assets 

Liabilities: 

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

Operating liabilities by business segment

Liabilities directly associated with assets held for sale (relating to 

Advanced Surgical Devices business segment) 

Unallocated corporate liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Unallocated corporate assets and liabilities comprise the following: 

Deferred tax assets 

Retirement benefit asset 

Cash and bank 

Unallocated corporate assets 

Long-term borrowings 

Retirement benefit obligations 

Deferred tax liabilities 

Bank overdrafts and loans due within one year 

Current tax payable 

Unallocated corporate liabilities 

Capital expenditure 

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

2012 

$ million

2011  

$ million 

2010 

$ million

3,518

1,776

5,294

–

348

5,642

530

256

786

–

972

1,758

164

6

178

348

430

266

61

38

177

972

2012 

$ million

188

839

1,027

3,396 

819 

4,215 

125 

407 

4,747 

526 

169 

695 

19 

846 

1,560 

223 

– 

184 

407 

16 

287 

66 

306 

171 

846 

334 

31 

365 

3,547

755

4,302

–

431

4,733

581

146

727

–

1,233

1,960

224

–

207

431

642

262

69

57

203

1,233

285

30

315

2011  

$ million 

2010 

$ million

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Group accounts continued 

2 Business segment information continued 

2.2 Trading and operating profit by business segment 

Trading profit is a trend measure which presents the long-term profitability of the Group excluding the impact of specific transactions that management considers affects 

the Group’s short-term profitability. The Group presents this measure to assist investors in their understanding of trends. The Group has identified the following items, 

where material, as those to be excluded from operating profit when arriving at trading profit: acquisition and disposal related items including amortisation of acquisition 

intangibles and impairments; significant restructuring events; gains and losses arising from legal disputes; and uninsured losses. Operating profit reconciles to trading 

2012 

$ million

2011  

$ million 

2010 

$ million

Notes

3

3

3

8 & 9

profit as follows: 

Operating profit 

Acquisition related costs 

Restructuring and rationalisation expenses 

Amortisation of acquisition intangibles and impairments 

Legal provision 

Trading profit 

Trading profit by business segment  

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

Operating profit by business segment 

reconciled to attributable profit for the year 

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

Operating profit 

Net interest receivable/(payable) 

Other finance costs 

Share of results of associates 

Profit on disposal on net assets held for sale 

Taxation 

Attributable profit for the year 

846

11

65

43

–

965

728

237

965

632

214

846

2

(3)

4

251

(371)

729

862 

– 

40 

36 

23 

961 

714 

247 

961 

630 

232 

862 

(8) 

(6) 

– 

– 

(266) 

582 

920

–

15

34

–

969

736

233

969

700

220

920

(15)

(10)

–

–

(280)

615

99

2.3 Assets and liabilities by business segment and geography 

Business Segment 

Balance sheet 

Assets: 

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

Operating assets by business segment 

Assets held for sale (relating to Advanced Surgical Devices business segment)

Unallocated corporate assets 

Total assets 

Liabilities: 

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

Operating liabilities by business segment

Liabilities directly associated with assets held for sale (relating to 

Advanced Surgical Devices business segment) 

Unallocated corporate liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Unallocated corporate assets and liabilities comprise the following: 

Deferred tax assets 

Retirement benefit asset 

Cash and bank 

Unallocated corporate assets 

Long-term borrowings 

Retirement benefit obligations 

Deferred tax liabilities 

Bank overdrafts and loans due within one year 

Current tax payable 

Unallocated corporate liabilities 

Capital expenditure 

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

2012 
$ million

2011  
$ million 

2010 
$ million

3,518

1,776

5,294

–

348

5,642

530

256

786

–

972

1,758

3,396 

819 

4,215 

125 

407 

4,747 

526 

169 

695 

19 

846 

1,560 

3,547

755

4,302

–

431

4,733

581

146

727

–

1,233

1,960

2012 
$ million

2011  
$ million 

2010 
$ million

164

6

178

348

430

266

61

38

177

972

2012 
$ million

188

839

1,027

223 

– 

184 

407 

16 

287 

66 

306 

171 

846 

224

–

207

431

642

262

69

57

203

1,233

2011  
$ million 

2010 
$ million

334 

31 

365 

285

30

315

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100

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

2 Business segment information continued 

2.3 Assets and liabilities by business segment and geography continued 
Capital expenditure segmentally allocated above comprises: 

Additions to property, plant and equipment 

Additions to intangible assets 

Capital expenditure (excluding business combinations) 

Acquisitions – Goodwill 

Acquisitions – Intangible assets 

Acquisitions – Property, plant and equipment 

Capital expenditure 

Depreciation, amortisation and impairment

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

2012 
$ million

197

68

265

73

662

27

1,027

2012 
$ million

274

38

312

2011  
$ million 

2010 
$ million

229 

92 

321 

44 

– 

– 

365 

250

65

315

–

–

–

315

2011  
$ million 

2010 
$ million

259 

38 

297 

236

37

273

Amounts comprise depreciation of property, plant and equipment, amortisation of other intangible assets, impairment of investments and amortisation of acquisition 
intangibles and impairments as follows: 

Amortisation of acquisition intangibles 

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment

Impairment of goodwill in Austrian associate 

Amortisation of other intangible assets 

Impairment of investments 

2012 
$ million

2011  
$ million 

2010 
$ million

43

212

4

51

2

312

36 

217 

– 

42 

2 

297 

34

203

–

34

2

273

Impairments of $6m were recognised within operating profit in 2012 and included within the administrative expenses line (2011 – $2m, 2010 – $2m). This is segmentally 
allocated to Advanced Surgical Devices (2011 – Advanced Surgical Devices, 2010 – Advanced Surgical Devices). 

Geographic 

Assets by geographic location 

United Kingdom 

Other Established Markets 

United States 

Emerging and International Markets 

Non-current operating assets by geographic location 

United Kingdom 

Other Established Markets 

United States 

Emerging and International Markets 

Current operating assets by geographic location

Assets held for sale 

Unallocated corporate assets (see page 99) 

Total assets 

2012  
$ million 

2011 
$ million

257 

895 

2,122 

54 

3,328 

279 

528 

999 

160 

1,966 

– 

348 

5,642 

283

1,068

920

48

2,319

190

806

762

138

1,896

125

407

4,747

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2.4 Other business segment information 

Other significant expenses recognised within operating profit

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

2012 

$ million

2011  

$ million 

2010 

$ million

The $76m incurred in 2012 relates to $65m restructuring and rationalisation expenses and $11m acquisition related costs (2011 – $40m relates to restructuring and 

rationalisation expenses, 2010 – $15m relates to restructuring and rationalisation expenses). 

Average number of employees 

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

3 Operating profit 

Accounting policies 

Research and development 

Advertising costs 

Expenditure on advertising costs is expensed as incurred. 

Revenue 

Cost of goods sold (i) 

Gross profit 

Research and development expenses 

Selling, general and administrative expenses: 

Marketing, selling and distribution expenses (ii) 

Administrative expenses (iii) (iv) (v) (vi)

57

19

76

2012 

numbers

7,194

3,283

10,477

2012 

$ million

4,137

(1,070)

3,067

(171)

(1,440)

(610)

(2,050)

846

32 

8 

40 

2011  

numbers 

7,611 

3,132 

10,743 

2011  

$ million 

4,270 

(1,140) 

3,130 

(167) 

(1,526) 

(575) 

(2,101) 

862 

10

5

15

2010 

numbers

7,179

2,993

10,172

2010 

$ million

3,962

(1,031)

2,931

(151)

(1,414)

(446)

(1,860)

920

The Group considers that the regulatory, technical and market uncertainties inherent in the development of new products means that development costs should not be 

capitalised as intangible assets until products receive approval from the appropriate regulatory body. Substantially all development expenditure is complete by the time 

the product is submitted for regulatory approval. Consequently the majority of expenditure on research and development is expensed as incurred. 

Operating profit 

(i)  2012 includes $3m of restructuring and rationalisation expenses (2011 – $7m , 2010 – $nil). 

(ii)  2012 includes $nil of restructuring and rationalisation expenses (2011 – $nil, 2010 – $3m). 

(iii)  2012 includes $51m of amortisation of other intangible assets (2011 – $42m, 2010 – $34m). 

(v)  2012 includes $nil relating to legal provision (2011 – $23m, 2010 – $nil). 

(vi)  2012 includes $11m of acquisition related costs (2011 – $nil, 2010 – $nil). 

Note that items detailed in (i), (ii), (iv), (v) and (vi) are excluded from the calculation of trading profit. 

(iv)  2012 includes $62m of restructuring and rationalisation expenses and $43m of amortisation of acquisition intangibles (2011 – $33m of restructuring and rationalisation expenses and $36m of 

amortisation of acquisition intangibles, 2010 – $12m of restructuring and rationalisation expenses and $34m of amortisation of acquisition intangibles). 

Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Group accounts continued 

2 Business segment information continued 

2.3 Assets and liabilities by business segment and geography continued 

Capital expenditure segmentally allocated above comprises: 

Additions to property, plant and equipment 

Additions to intangible assets 

Capital expenditure (excluding business combinations) 

Acquisitions – Goodwill 

Acquisitions – Intangible assets 

Acquisitions – Property, plant and equipment 

Capital expenditure 

Depreciation, amortisation and impairment

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

Amortisation of acquisition intangibles 

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment

Impairment of goodwill in Austrian associate 

Amortisation of other intangible assets 

Impairment of investments 

Geographic 

Assets by geographic location 

United Kingdom 

Other Established Markets 

United States 

Emerging and International Markets 

Non-current operating assets by geographic location 

United Kingdom 

Other Established Markets 

United States 

Emerging and International Markets 

Current operating assets by geographic location

Assets held for sale 

Unallocated corporate assets (see page 99) 

Total assets 

2012 

$ million

197

68

265

73

662

27

1,027

2012 

$ million

274

38

312

43

212

4

51

2

312

2011  

$ million 

2010 

$ million

2011  

$ million 

2010 

$ million

229 

92 

321 

44 

– 

– 

365 

259 

38 

297 

36 

217 

– 

42 

2 

297 

257 

895 

2,122 

54 

3,328 

279 

528 

999 

160 

1,966 

– 

348 

5,642 

250

65

315

–

–

–

315

236

37

273

34

203

–

34

2

273

283

1,068

920

48

2,319

190

806

762

138

1,896

125

407

4,747

Impairments of $6m were recognised within operating profit in 2012 and included within the administrative expenses line (2011 – $2m, 2010 – $2m). This is segmentally 

allocated to Advanced Surgical Devices (2011 – Advanced Surgical Devices, 2010 – Advanced Surgical Devices). 

2012  

$ million 

2011 

$ million

101

2.4 Other business segment information 

Other significant expenses recognised within operating profit

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

2012 
$ million

2011  
$ million 

2010 
$ million

57

19

76

32 

8 

40 

10

5

15

The $76m incurred in 2012 relates to $65m restructuring and rationalisation expenses and $11m acquisition related costs (2011 – $40m relates to restructuring and 
rationalisation expenses, 2010 – $15m relates to restructuring and rationalisation expenses). 

Average number of employees 

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

3 Operating profit 

Accounting policies 

2012 
numbers

7,194

3,283

10,477

2011  
numbers 

7,611 

3,132 

10,743 

2010 
numbers

7,179

2,993

10,172

Amounts comprise depreciation of property, plant and equipment, amortisation of other intangible assets, impairment of investments and amortisation of acquisition 

intangibles and impairments as follows: 

2012 

$ million

2011  

$ million 

2010 

$ million

Research and development 
The Group considers that the regulatory, technical and market uncertainties inherent in the development of new products means that development costs should not be 
capitalised as intangible assets until products receive approval from the appropriate regulatory body. Substantially all development expenditure is complete by the time 
the product is submitted for regulatory approval. Consequently the majority of expenditure on research and development is expensed as incurred. 

Advertising costs 
Expenditure on advertising costs is expensed as incurred. 

Revenue 

Cost of goods sold (i) 

Gross profit 

Research and development expenses 

Selling, general and administrative expenses: 

Marketing, selling and distribution expenses (ii) 

Administrative expenses (iii) (iv) (v) (vi)

Operating profit 

(i)  2012 includes $3m of restructuring and rationalisation expenses (2011 – $7m , 2010 – $nil). 

(ii)  2012 includes $nil of restructuring and rationalisation expenses (2011 – $nil, 2010 – $3m). 

(iii)  2012 includes $51m of amortisation of other intangible assets (2011 – $42m, 2010 – $34m). 

2012 
$ million

4,137

(1,070)

3,067

(171)

(1,440)

(610)

(2,050)

846

2011  
$ million 

4,270 

(1,140) 

3,130 

(167) 

(1,526) 

(575) 

(2,101) 

862 

2010 
$ million

3,962

(1,031)

2,931

(151)

(1,414)

(446)

(1,860)

920

(iv)  2012 includes $62m of restructuring and rationalisation expenses and $43m of amortisation of acquisition intangibles (2011 – $33m of restructuring and rationalisation expenses and $36m of 

amortisation of acquisition intangibles, 2010 – $12m of restructuring and rationalisation expenses and $34m of amortisation of acquisition intangibles). 

(v)  2012 includes $nil relating to legal provision (2011 – $23m, 2010 – $nil). 

(vi)  2012 includes $11m of acquisition related costs (2011 – $nil, 2010 – $nil). 

Note that items detailed in (i), (ii), (iv), (v) and (vi) are excluded from the calculation of trading profit. 

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102

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

3 Operating profit continued 
Operating profit is stated after charging the following items: 

Amortisation of acquisition intangibles 

Amortisation of other intangible assets 

Impairment of goodwill in Austrian associate 

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment

Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment and software 

Impairment of investments 

Minimum operating lease payments for land and buildings 

Minimum operating lease payments for other assets 

Advertising costs 

3.1 Staff costs 
Staff costs during the year amounted to: 

Wages and salaries 

Social security costs 

Pension costs (including retirement healthcare)

Share-based payments 

Notes

19

24

2012 
$ million

2011  
$ million 

2010 
$ million

43

51

4

212

12

2

29

21

74

2012 
$ million

886

97

64

34

1,081

36 

42 

– 

217 

9 

2 

33 

32 

90 

2011  
$ million 

930 

99 

64 

30 

1,123 

34

34

–

203

15

2

31

28

83

2010 
$ million

817

91

60

21

989

2010 
$ million

1

2

1

1

5

2

3

5

3.2 Audit Fees – information about the nature and cost of services provided by auditors 
2011  
$ million 

2012 
$ million

Audit services: Group accounts 

Other services:  

Local statutory audit pursuant to legislation

Taxation services: 

Compliance services 

Advisory services 

Total auditors’ remuneration 

Arising: 

In the UK 

Outside the UK 

1

2

1

1

5

2

3

5

1 

2 

1 

1 

5 

2 

3 

5 

3.3 Acquisition related costs 

Acquisition related costs of $11m (2011 – $nil, 2010 – $nil) were incurred in the twelve month period to 31 December 2012. These costs relate to professional and 

advisor fees in connection with the acquisition of Healthpoint Biotherapeutics which was completed on 21 December 2012. 

3.4 Restructuring and rationalisation expenses 

Restructuring and rationalisation costs of $65m (2011 – $40m, 2010 – $15m) were incurred in the twelve month period to 31 December 2012. Charges of $65m (2011 – 

$26m, 2010 - $nil) were incurred, relating mainly to people costs and contract termination costs associated with the structural and process changes announced in August 

2011. During 2012, no charges (2011 – $14m, 2010 – $15m) were incurred in relation to the earnings improvement programme which was completed in 2011.  

3.5 Legal provision 

In 2011, the Group established a provision of $23m in connection with the previously disclosed investigation by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (‘SEC’) and 

Department of Justice (‘DOJ’) into potential violations of the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in the medical devices industry. 

On 6 February 2012, Smith & Nephew announced that it had reached settlement with the SEC and DOJ in connection with this matter and committed to pay slightly less 

than $23m in fines and profit disgorgement which have all been paid. Smith & Nephew also agreed to maintain an enhanced compliance programme and appoint an 

independent monitor for at least 18 months to review and report on its compliance programme.  

4 Interest and other finance costs 

4.1 Interest receivable/(payable) 

Interest receivable 

Interest payable: 

Bank borrowings 

Other 

Net interest receivable/(payable) 

4.2 Other finance costs 

Retirement benefits: Interest cost 

Retirement benefits: Expected return on plan assets 

Other 

Other finance costs 

Notes

19

19

2012 

$ million

11

(7)

(2)

(9)

2

2012 

$ million

(63)

60

–

(3)

2011  

$ million 

2010 

$ million

4 

(6) 

(6) 

(12) 

(8) 

2011  

$ million 

(66) 

59 

1 

(6) 

3

(7)

(11)

(18)

(15)

2010 

$ million

(64)

55

(1)

(10)

Interest receivable includes net interest receivable of $2m (2011 – $1m, 2010 – $nil) on interest rate and currency swaps and interest payable includes $1m (2011 – $nil, 

2010 – $5m) of net interest payable on currency and interest rate swaps. The gross interest receivable on these swaps was $2m (2011 – $4m, 2010 – $4m) and the 

gross interest payable was $1m (2011 – $3m, 2010 – $9m). 

Foreign exchange gains or losses recognised in the income statement arose primarily on the translation of intercompany and third party borrowings and amounted 

to a net $5m loss in 2012 (2011 – net $3m gain, 2010 – net $8m gain). These amounts were fully matched in the income statement by the fair value gains or losses 

on currency swaps (carried at fair value through profit and loss) held to manage this currency risk. 

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
103

3.3 Acquisition related costs 
Acquisition related costs of $11m (2011 – $nil, 2010 – $nil) were incurred in the twelve month period to 31 December 2012. These costs relate to professional and 
advisor fees in connection with the acquisition of Healthpoint Biotherapeutics which was completed on 21 December 2012. 

3.4 Restructuring and rationalisation expenses 
Restructuring and rationalisation costs of $65m (2011 – $40m, 2010 – $15m) were incurred in the twelve month period to 31 December 2012. Charges of $65m (2011 – 
$26m, 2010 - $nil) were incurred, relating mainly to people costs and contract termination costs associated with the structural and process changes announced in August 
2011. During 2012, no charges (2011 – $14m, 2010 – $15m) were incurred in relation to the earnings improvement programme which was completed in 2011.  

3.5 Legal provision 
In 2011, the Group established a provision of $23m in connection with the previously disclosed investigation by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (‘SEC’) and 
Department of Justice (‘DOJ’) into potential violations of the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in the medical devices industry. 

On 6 February 2012, Smith & Nephew announced that it had reached settlement with the SEC and DOJ in connection with this matter and committed to pay slightly less 
than $23m in fines and profit disgorgement which have all been paid. Smith & Nephew also agreed to maintain an enhanced compliance programme and appoint an 
independent monitor for at least 18 months to review and report on its compliance programme.  

3.2 Audit Fees – information about the nature and cost of services provided by auditors 

Net interest receivable/(payable) 

4 Interest and other finance costs 

4.1 Interest receivable/(payable) 

Interest receivable 

Interest payable: 

Bank borrowings 

Other 

2012 
$ million

11

(7)

(2)

(9)

2

2011  
$ million 

2010 
$ million

4 

(6) 

(6) 

(12) 

(8) 

3

(7)

(11)

(18)

(15)

2012 

$ million

2011  

$ million 

2010 

$ million

Interest receivable includes net interest receivable of $2m (2011 – $1m, 2010 – $nil) on interest rate and currency swaps and interest payable includes $1m (2011 – $nil, 
2010 – $5m) of net interest payable on currency and interest rate swaps. The gross interest receivable on these swaps was $2m (2011 – $4m, 2010 – $4m) and the 
gross interest payable was $1m (2011 – $3m, 2010 – $9m). 

4.2 Other finance costs 

Retirement benefits: Interest cost 

Retirement benefits: Expected return on plan assets 

Other 

Other finance costs 

Notes

19

19

2012 
$ million

(63)

60

–

(3)

2011  
$ million 

(66) 

59 

1 

(6) 

2010 
$ million

(64)

55

(1)

(10)

Foreign exchange gains or losses recognised in the income statement arose primarily on the translation of intercompany and third party borrowings and amounted 
to a net $5m loss in 2012 (2011 – net $3m gain, 2010 – net $8m gain). These amounts were fully matched in the income statement by the fair value gains or losses 
on currency swaps (carried at fair value through profit and loss) held to manage this currency risk. 

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

3 Operating profit continued 

Operating profit is stated after charging the following items: 

Amortisation of acquisition intangibles 

Amortisation of other intangible assets 

Impairment of goodwill in Austrian associate 

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment

Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment and software 

Impairment of investments 

Minimum operating lease payments for land and buildings 

Minimum operating lease payments for other assets 

Advertising costs 

3.1 Staff costs 

Staff costs during the year amounted to: 

Wages and salaries 

Social security costs 

Pension costs (including retirement healthcare)

Share-based payments 

Notes

19

24

Audit services: Group accounts 

Other services:  

Local statutory audit pursuant to legislation

Taxation services: 

Compliance services 

Advisory services 

Total auditors’ remuneration 

Arising: 

In the UK 

Outside the UK 

2012 

$ million

2011  

$ million 

2010 

$ million

212

43

51

4

12

2

29

21

74

2012 

$ million

886

97

64

34

1,081

1

2

1

1

5

2

3

5

217 

36 

42 

– 

9 

2 

33 

32 

90 

2011  

$ million 

930 

99 

64 

30 

1,123 

1 

2 

1 

1 

5 

2 

3 

5 

2010 

$ million

203

34

34

–

15

2

31

28

83

817

91

60

21

989

1

2

1

1

5

2

3

5

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104

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

5 Taxation 

Accounting policy 

The charge for current taxation is based on the results for the year as adjusted for items which are non-assessable or disallowed. It is calculated using rates that have 
been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date. The accounting policy for deferred taxation is set out in Note 17. 

The Group operates in multiple tax jurisdictions around the world and records provisions for taxation liabilities and tax audits when it is considered probable that a tax 
charge will arise and the amount can be reliably estimated. Although Group policy is to submit its tax returns to the relevant tax authorities as promptly as possible, 
at any time the Group has unagreed years outstanding and is involved in disputes and tax audits. Significant issues may take many years to resolve. In estimating 
the probability and amount of any tax charge management takes into account the views of internal and external advisers and updates the amount of the provision 
whenever necessary. The ultimate tax liability may differ from the amount provided depending on interpretations of tax law, settlement negotiations or changes 
in legislation. 

Taxation charge attributable to the Group 

Current taxation: 

UK corporation tax at 24.5% (2011 – 26.5%, 2010 – 28%) 

Overseas tax 

Current income tax charge 

Adjustments in respect of prior periods 

Total current taxation 

Deferred taxation: 

Origination and reversal of temporary differences 

Changes in tax rates 

Adjustments to estimated amounts arising in prior periods 

Total deferred taxation 

Total taxation as per the income statement 

Deferred taxation in other comprehensive income 

Deferred taxation in equity 

Taxation attributable to the Group 

2012 
$ million

2011  
$ million 

2010 
$ million

53

248

301

(17)

284

88

(3)

2

87

371

(20)

–

351

56 

214 

270 

(16) 

254 

18 

(3) 

(3) 

12 

266 

(24) 

2 

244 

52

238

290

(18)

272

4

(2)

6

8

280

7

–

287

The tax charge was increased by $82m in 2012 as a consequence of the profit on disposal of net assets held for sale after adjusting for acquisition related costs, 
restructuring and rationalisation expenses and amortisation of acquisition intangibles. In 2011 and 2010 (2011 – $17m and 2010 – $10m) the tax charge was reduced 
as a consequence of restructuring and rationalisation expenses, amortisation of acquisition intangibles and legal provision. 

The applicable tax for the year is based on the United Kingdom standard rate of corporation tax of 24.5% (2011 – 26.5%, 2010 – 28%). Overseas taxation is calculated 
at the rates prevailing in the respective jurisdictions. The average effective tax rate differs from the applicable rate as follows: 

UK standard rate 

Non-deductible/non-taxable items 

Prior year items 

Tax losses incurred not relieved/(utilised not previously recognised) 

Overseas income taxed at other than UK standard rate 

Total effective tax rate 

2012 
%

24.5

0.4

(1.3)

0.8

9.3

33.7

2011  
% 

26.5 

(0.5) 

(1.6) 

0.3 

6.7 

31.4 

2010 
%

28.0

0.2

(1.5)

(0.2)

4.8

31.3

The enacted UK tax rate applicable from 1 April 2013 was reduced to 23% and the UK Government announced policy to reduce the tax rate to 21%. It is expected that 
if the stated policy is enacted deferred tax credits will arise. 

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6 Earnings per Ordinary Share 

Accounting policies 

Earnings per share 

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the profit attributable to equity holders by the weighted average number of Ordinary Shares in issue during the year, 

excluding shares held by the Company in the Employees’ Share Trust or as treasury shares. 

Adjusted earnings per share 

Adjusted earnings per share is a trend measure which presents the long-term profitability of the Group excluding the impact of specific transactions that management 

considers affects the Group’s short-term profitability. The Group presents this measure to assist investors in their understanding of trends. Adjusted attributable profit is 

the numerator used for this measure. The Group has identified the following items, where material, as those to be excluded when arriving at adjusted attributable profit: 

acquisition and disposal related items including amortisation of acquisition intangible assets and impairments; significant restructuring events; gains and losses arising 

from legal disputes and uninsured losses; and taxation thereon. 

The calculations of the basic, diluted and adjusted earnings per Ordinary Share are based on the following earnings and numbers of shares: 

Notes

8 & 9

3

3

22

3

5

Earnings 

Attributable profit for the year 

Adjusted attributable profit (see below) 

Adjusted attributable profit 

Attributable profit is reconciled to adjusted attributable profit as follows: 

Attributable profit for the year 

Acquisition related costs 

Restructuring and rationalisation expenses

Amortisation of acquisition intangibles and impairments 

Profit on disposal of net assets held for sale

Legal provision 

Taxation on excluded items 

Adjusted attributable profit 

per Ordinary Share are as follows: 

Number of shares (millions) 

Basic weighted average number of shares

Dilutive impact of share options outstanding 

Diluted weighted average number of shares 

Earnings per Ordinary Share 

Basic 

Diluted 

Adjusted: Basic 

Adjusted: Diluted 

2012 

$ million

729

679

2012 

$ million

729

(251)

11

65

43

–

82

679

2012

897

4

901

81.3¢

80.9¢

75.7¢

75.4¢

2011  

$ million 

582 

664 

2011  

$ million 

582 

– 

40 

36 

– 

23 

(17) 

664 

2011 

891 

4 

895 

65.3¢ 

65.0¢ 

74.5¢ 

74.2¢ 

2010 

$ million

615

654

2010 

$ million

615

–

15

34

–

–

(10)

654

2010

888

1

889

69.3¢

69.2¢

73.6¢

73.6¢

The numerators used for basic and diluted earnings per Ordinary Share are the same. The denominators used for all categories of earnings for basic and diluted earnings 

Share options not included in the diluted EPS calculation because they were non-dilutive in the period totalled 8.2m (2011 – 12.9m, 2010 – 2.5m). 

Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The charge for current taxation is based on the results for the year as adjusted for items which are non-assessable or disallowed. It is calculated using rates that have 

been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date. The accounting policy for deferred taxation is set out in Note 17. 

The Group operates in multiple tax jurisdictions around the world and records provisions for taxation liabilities and tax audits when it is considered probable that a tax 

charge will arise and the amount can be reliably estimated. Although Group policy is to submit its tax returns to the relevant tax authorities as promptly as possible, 

at any time the Group has unagreed years outstanding and is involved in disputes and tax audits. Significant issues may take many years to resolve. In estimating 

the probability and amount of any tax charge management takes into account the views of internal and external advisers and updates the amount of the provision 

whenever necessary. The ultimate tax liability may differ from the amount provided depending on interpretations of tax law, settlement negotiations or changes 

in legislation. 

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

5 Taxation 

Accounting policy 

Taxation charge attributable to the Group 

Current taxation: 

UK corporation tax at 24.5% (2011 – 26.5%, 2010 – 28%) 

Overseas tax 

Current income tax charge 

Adjustments in respect of prior periods 

Total current taxation 

Deferred taxation: 

Changes in tax rates 

Origination and reversal of temporary differences 

Adjustments to estimated amounts arising in prior periods 

Total deferred taxation 

Total taxation as per the income statement 

Deferred taxation in other comprehensive income 

Deferred taxation in equity 

Taxation attributable to the Group 

UK standard rate 

Non-deductible/non-taxable items 

Prior year items 

Tax losses incurred not relieved/(utilised not previously recognised) 

Overseas income taxed at other than UK standard rate 

Total effective tax rate 

2012 

$ million

2011  

$ million 

2010 

$ million

53

248

301

(17)

284

88

(3)

2

87

371

(20)

–

351

2012 

%

24.5

0.4

(1.3)

0.8

9.3

33.7

56 

214 

270 

(16) 

254 

18 

(3) 

(3) 

12 

266 

(24) 

2 

244 

2011  

% 

26.5 

(0.5) 

(1.6) 

0.3 

6.7 

31.4 

52

238

290

(18)

272

4

(2)

6

8

7

–

280

287

2010 

%

28.0

0.2

(1.5)

(0.2)

4.8

31.3

The tax charge was increased by $82m in 2012 as a consequence of the profit on disposal of net assets held for sale after adjusting for acquisition related costs, 

restructuring and rationalisation expenses and amortisation of acquisition intangibles. In 2011 and 2010 (2011 – $17m and 2010 – $10m) the tax charge was reduced 

as a consequence of restructuring and rationalisation expenses, amortisation of acquisition intangibles and legal provision. 

The applicable tax for the year is based on the United Kingdom standard rate of corporation tax of 24.5% (2011 – 26.5%, 2010 – 28%). Overseas taxation is calculated 

at the rates prevailing in the respective jurisdictions. The average effective tax rate differs from the applicable rate as follows: 

The enacted UK tax rate applicable from 1 April 2013 was reduced to 23% and the UK Government announced policy to reduce the tax rate to 21%. It is expected that 

if the stated policy is enacted deferred tax credits will arise. 

105

6 Earnings per Ordinary Share 

Accounting policies 

Earnings per share 
Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the profit attributable to equity holders by the weighted average number of Ordinary Shares in issue during the year, 
excluding shares held by the Company in the Employees’ Share Trust or as treasury shares. 

Adjusted earnings per share 
Adjusted earnings per share is a trend measure which presents the long-term profitability of the Group excluding the impact of specific transactions that management 
considers affects the Group’s short-term profitability. The Group presents this measure to assist investors in their understanding of trends. Adjusted attributable profit is 
the numerator used for this measure. The Group has identified the following items, where material, as those to be excluded when arriving at adjusted attributable profit: 
acquisition and disposal related items including amortisation of acquisition intangible assets and impairments; significant restructuring events; gains and losses arising 
from legal disputes and uninsured losses; and taxation thereon. 

The calculations of the basic, diluted and adjusted earnings per Ordinary Share are based on the following earnings and numbers of shares: 

Earnings 

Attributable profit for the year 

Adjusted attributable profit (see below) 

Adjusted attributable profit 

Attributable profit is reconciled to adjusted attributable profit as follows: 

Attributable profit for the year 

Acquisition related costs 

Restructuring and rationalisation expenses

Amortisation of acquisition intangibles and impairments 

Profit on disposal of net assets held for sale

Legal provision 

Taxation on excluded items 

Adjusted attributable profit 

Notes

3

3

8 & 9

22

3

5

2012 
$ million

729

679

2012 
$ million

729

11

65

43

(251)

–

82

679

2011  
$ million 

582 

664 

2011  
$ million 

582 

– 

40 

36 

– 

23 

(17) 

664 

2010 
$ million

615

654

2010 
$ million

615

–

15

34

–

–

(10)

654

The numerators used for basic and diluted earnings per Ordinary Share are the same. The denominators used for all categories of earnings for basic and diluted earnings 
per Ordinary Share are as follows: 

Number of shares (millions) 

Basic weighted average number of shares

Dilutive impact of share options outstanding 

Diluted weighted average number of shares 

Earnings per Ordinary Share 

Basic 

Diluted 

Adjusted: Basic 

Adjusted: Diluted 

2012

897

4

901

81.3¢

80.9¢

75.7¢

75.4¢

2011 

891 

4 

895 

65.3¢ 

65.0¢ 

74.5¢ 

74.2¢ 

2010

888

1

889

69.3¢

69.2¢

73.6¢

73.6¢

Share options not included in the diluted EPS calculation because they were non-dilutive in the period totalled 8.2m (2011 – 12.9m, 2010 – 2.5m). 

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106

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

7 Property, plant and equipment 

Accounting policies 

Property, plant and equipment 
Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost less depreciation and provision for impairment where appropriate. Freehold land is not depreciated. Freehold buildings 
are depreciated on a straight-line basis over lives ranging between 20 and 50 years. Leasehold land and buildings are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the 
shorter of their estimated useful economic lives and the terms of the leases. 

Plant and equipment is depreciated over lives ranging between three and 20 years by equal annual instalments to write down the assets to their estimated residual 
value at the end of their working lives. Assets in course of construction are not depreciated until they are brought into use. 

The useful lives and residual values of all property, plant and equipment are reviewed each financial year-end, and where adjustments are required, these are 
made prospectively. 

Finance costs relating to the purchase or construction of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets that take longer than one year to complete are capitalised 
based on the Group weighted average borrowing costs. All other finance costs are expensed as incurred. 

Impairment of assets 
The carrying values of property, plant and equipment are reviewed for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may be 
impaired. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of impairment loss. Where it is not possible 
to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the Group estimates the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which it belongs. 

An asset’s recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s or cash-generating unit’s fair value less costs to sell and its value-in-use. In assessing value-in-use, its 
estimated future cash flow is discounted to its present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects the current market assessments of the time value of money and 
the risks specific to the asset. 

Cost 

At 1 January 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Additions 

Disposals 

Transfers 

Transferred to assets held for sale 

At 31 December 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Acquisitions (see Note 22.1) 

Additions 

Disposals 

Transfers 

At 31 December 2012 

Depreciation and impairment 

At 1 January 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Charge for the year 

Disposals 

Transferred to assets held for sale 

At 31 December 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Charge for the year 

Disposals 

At 31 December 2012 

Net book amounts 

At 31 December 2012 

At 31 December 2011 

Land and buildings

Plant and equipment 

Freehold
$ million

Leasehold
$ million

Instruments
$ million

Other 
$ million 

Assets in 
course of 
construction  
$ million 

Total 
$ million

131

–

4

(2)

–

–

133

2

8

–

–

–

143

41

–

4

(2)

–

43

1

2

–

46

97

90

53

(1)

2

(2)

–

–

52

–

–

1

(1)

–

52

25

–

3

(1)

–

27

–

3

(1)

29

23

25

964

(13)

144

(86)

–

–

1,009

3

–

122

(92)

–

1,042

638

(9)

139

(80)

–

688

2

137

(89)

738

304

321

786 

(7) 

32 

– 

72 

(5) 

878 

15 

7 

46 

(37) 

10 

919 

510 

(6) 

71 

– 

(2) 

573 

11 

70 

(31) 

623 

296 

305 

67 

– 

47 

– 

(72) 

– 

42 

1 

12 

28 

– 

(10) 

73 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

73 

42 

2,001

(21)

229

(90)

–

(5)

2,114

21

27

197

(130)

–

2,229

1,214

(15)

217

(83)

(2)

1,331

14

212

(121)

1,436

793

783

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Land and buildings includes land with a cost of $15m (2011– $14m) that is not subject to depreciation. Assets held under finance leases with a net book amount of $11m 

(2011 – $12m) are included within land and buildings and $nil (2011 – $8m) are included within plant and equipment. 

Capital expenditure represents the Group’s expected annual investment in property, plant and equipment and other intangible assets. This varies between 7% and 8% 

(2011 – 8%) of annual revenue. 

Group capital expenditure relating to property, plant and equipment contracted but not provided for amounted to $4m (2011 – $9m). 

8 Goodwill 

Accounting policy 

Goodwill is not amortised but is reviewed for impairment annually. Goodwill is allocated to the cash-generating unit (‘CGU’) that is expected to benefit from the 

acquisition. The recoverable amount of CGUs to which goodwill has been allocated is tested for impairment annually.  

The Orthopaedics and Endoscopy business units, reported separately in the Group accounts for the year ended 31 December 2011, have been combined into a single 

operating division named Advanced Surgical Devices. This segmentation reflects the revised Group structure announced in August 2011. For purposes of impairment 

testing, goodwill is allocated to the related CGUs monitored by management, being the business segment level, Advanced Surgical Devices and Advanced Wound 

Management. The comparative goodwill figures previously allocated to the Orthopaedics and Endoscopy business segments have been restated and reported under 

the single business segment Advanced Surgical Devices. 

The provisional goodwill of $73 million arising on the acquisition of Healthpoint, which was completed on 21 December 2012, has been provisionally allocated to the 

Advanced Wound Management business segment and CGU. The recent transaction price provides the best evidence of fair value and supports the provisional carrying 

amount of the goodwill. Therefore, the goodwill arising from the Healthpoint acquisition was excluded from the impairment review below and as a result the future 

expected cash flows relating to this acquisition were not included in calculating the value-in-use for the Advanced Wound Management CGU. 

In carrying out impairment reviews of goodwill a number of significant assumptions have to be made when preparing cash flow projections. These include the future 

rate of market growth, discount rates, the market demand for the products acquired, the future profitability of acquired businesses or products, levels of reimbursement 

and success in obtaining regulatory approvals. If actual results should differ, or changes in expectations arise, impairment charges may be required which would 

adversely impact operating results. If the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit is less than its carrying amount then an impairment loss is determined to have 

occurred. Any impairment losses that arise are recognised immediately in the income statement and are allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of goodwill and 

then to the carrying amounts of the other assets. 

Cost 

At 1 January 

Exchange adjustment 

Acquisitions 

At 31 December 

Impairment 

At 1 January 

Transferred to assets held for sale 

Transferred to assets held for sale 

At 31 December 

Net book amounts 

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

Each of the Group’s business segments represent a CGU and include goodwill as follows: 

Notes

2012  

$ million 

2011 

$ million

22

22

22

1,096 

17 

73 

– 

1,186 

– 

– 

– 

1,186 

2012  

$ million 

886 

300 

1,186 

1,108

(12)

44

(44)

1,096

7

(7)

–

1,096

2011 

$ million

872

224

1,096

In September 2012 and 2011 impairment reviews were performed by comparing the recoverable amount of each CGU with its carrying amount, including goodwill. 

These are updated during December, taking into account significant events that occurred between September and December. 

For each CGU, the recoverable amounts are based on value-in-use which is calculated from pre-tax cash flow projections for five years using data from the Group’s 

budget and strategic planning process, the results of which are reviewed and approved by the Board. These projections exclude any estimated future cash inflows 

or outflows expected to arise from future restructurings. The five-year period is in line with the Group’s strategic planning process. 

Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Group accounts continued 

7 Property, plant and equipment 

Accounting policies 

Property, plant and equipment 

Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost less depreciation and provision for impairment where appropriate. Freehold land is not depreciated. Freehold buildings 

are depreciated on a straight-line basis over lives ranging between 20 and 50 years. Leasehold land and buildings are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the 

shorter of their estimated useful economic lives and the terms of the leases. 

Plant and equipment is depreciated over lives ranging between three and 20 years by equal annual instalments to write down the assets to their estimated residual 

value at the end of their working lives. Assets in course of construction are not depreciated until they are brought into use. 

The useful lives and residual values of all property, plant and equipment are reviewed each financial year-end, and where adjustments are required, these are 

made prospectively. 

Finance costs relating to the purchase or construction of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets that take longer than one year to complete are capitalised 

based on the Group weighted average borrowing costs. All other finance costs are expensed as incurred. 

Impairment of assets 

The carrying values of property, plant and equipment are reviewed for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may be 

impaired. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of impairment loss. Where it is not possible 

to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the Group estimates the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which it belongs. 

An asset’s recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s or cash-generating unit’s fair value less costs to sell and its value-in-use. In assessing value-in-use, its 

estimated future cash flow is discounted to its present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects the current market assessments of the time value of money and 

the risks specific to the asset. 

Cost 

At 1 January 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Additions 

Disposals 

Transfers 

Transferred to assets held for sale 

At 31 December 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Acquisitions (see Note 22.1) 

Additions 

Disposals 

Transfers 

At 31 December 2012 

Depreciation and impairment 

Transferred to assets held for sale 

At 1 January 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Charge for the year 

Disposals 

At 31 December 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Charge for the year 

Disposals 

At 31 December 2012 

Net book amounts 

At 31 December 2012 

At 31 December 2011 

Land and buildings

Plant and equipment 

Assets in 

course of 

Freehold

$ million

Leasehold

$ million

Instruments

$ million

Other 

$ million 

construction  

$ million 

Total 

$ million

143

131

133

(2)

–

4

–

–

2

8

–

–

–

41

–

4

(2)

–

43

1

2

–

46

97

90

53

(1)

2

(2)

52

–

–

–

–

1

(1)

–

52

25

–

3

(1)

–

27

–

3

(1)

29

23

25

964

(13)

144

(86)

–

–

3

–

–

1,009

122

(92)

1,042

638

(9)

139

(80)

688

–

2

137

(89)

738

304

321

786 

(7) 

32 

– 

72 

(5) 

878 

15 

7 

46 

(37) 

10 

919 

510 

(6) 

71 

– 

(2) 

573 

11 

70 

(31) 

623 

296 

305 

(72) 

67 

– 

47 

– 

– 

42 

1 

12 

28 

– 

(10) 

73 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

73 

42 

2,001

2,114

(21)

229

(90)

–

(5)

21

27

197

(130)

–

2,229

1,214

(15)

217

(83)

(2)

1,331

14

212

(121)

1,436

793

783

107

Land and buildings includes land with a cost of $15m (2011– $14m) that is not subject to depreciation. Assets held under finance leases with a net book amount of $11m 
(2011 – $12m) are included within land and buildings and $nil (2011 – $8m) are included within plant and equipment. 

Capital expenditure represents the Group’s expected annual investment in property, plant and equipment and other intangible assets. This varies between 7% and 8% 
(2011 – 8%) of annual revenue. 

Group capital expenditure relating to property, plant and equipment contracted but not provided for amounted to $4m (2011 – $9m). 

8 Goodwill 

Accounting policy 

Goodwill is not amortised but is reviewed for impairment annually. Goodwill is allocated to the cash-generating unit (‘CGU’) that is expected to benefit from the 
acquisition. The recoverable amount of CGUs to which goodwill has been allocated is tested for impairment annually.  

The Orthopaedics and Endoscopy business units, reported separately in the Group accounts for the year ended 31 December 2011, have been combined into a single 
operating division named Advanced Surgical Devices. This segmentation reflects the revised Group structure announced in August 2011. For purposes of impairment 
testing, goodwill is allocated to the related CGUs monitored by management, being the business segment level, Advanced Surgical Devices and Advanced Wound 
Management. The comparative goodwill figures previously allocated to the Orthopaedics and Endoscopy business segments have been restated and reported under 
the single business segment Advanced Surgical Devices. 

The provisional goodwill of $73 million arising on the acquisition of Healthpoint, which was completed on 21 December 2012, has been provisionally allocated to the 
Advanced Wound Management business segment and CGU. The recent transaction price provides the best evidence of fair value and supports the provisional carrying 
amount of the goodwill. Therefore, the goodwill arising from the Healthpoint acquisition was excluded from the impairment review below and as a result the future 
expected cash flows relating to this acquisition were not included in calculating the value-in-use for the Advanced Wound Management CGU. 

In carrying out impairment reviews of goodwill a number of significant assumptions have to be made when preparing cash flow projections. These include the future 
rate of market growth, discount rates, the market demand for the products acquired, the future profitability of acquired businesses or products, levels of reimbursement 
and success in obtaining regulatory approvals. If actual results should differ, or changes in expectations arise, impairment charges may be required which would 
adversely impact operating results. If the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit is less than its carrying amount then an impairment loss is determined to have 
occurred. Any impairment losses that arise are recognised immediately in the income statement and are allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of goodwill and 
then to the carrying amounts of the other assets. 

Cost 

At 1 January 

Exchange adjustment 

Acquisitions 

Transferred to assets held for sale 

At 31 December 

Impairment 

At 1 January 

Transferred to assets held for sale 

At 31 December 

Net book amounts 

Each of the Group’s business segments represent a CGU and include goodwill as follows: 

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

Notes

2012  
$ million 

2011 
$ million

22

22

22

1,096 

17 

73 

– 

1,186 

– 

– 

– 

1,186 

2012  
$ million 

886 

300 

1,186 

1,108

(12)

44

(44)

1,096

7

(7)

–

1,096

2011 
$ million

872

224

1,096

In September 2012 and 2011 impairment reviews were performed by comparing the recoverable amount of each CGU with its carrying amount, including goodwill. 
These are updated during December, taking into account significant events that occurred between September and December. 

For each CGU, the recoverable amounts are based on value-in-use which is calculated from pre-tax cash flow projections for five years using data from the Group’s 
budget and strategic planning process, the results of which are reviewed and approved by the Board. These projections exclude any estimated future cash inflows 
or outflows expected to arise from future restructurings. The five-year period is in line with the Group’s strategic planning process. 

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108

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

8 Goodwill continued 
The calculation of value-in-use for the identified CGUs is most sensitive to discount and growth rates as set out below: 

The discount rate reflects management’s assessment of risks specific to the assets of each CGU. The pre-tax discount rate used in the Advanced Surgical Devices 
business is 10% and for the Advanced Wound Management business it is 9% (2011 – 9%). 

In determining the growth rate used in the calculation of the value-in-use, the Group considered the annual sales growth and trading profit margins. Projections are based 
on anticipated volume and value growth in the markets served by the Group and assumptions as to market share movements. Each year the projections for the previous 
year are compared to actual results and variances are factored into the assumptions used in the current year. Growth rates for the five-year period for the Advanced 
Surgical Devices business vary up to 7% and for the Advanced Wound Management business up to 9% (2011 – 8%). 

Specific considerations and strategies taken into account in determining the sales growth and trading profit margin for each CGU are: 

–  Advanced Surgical Devices – In the Advanced Surgical Devices CGU management intends to deliver growth through continuing to focus on the customer, high quality 

customer service, innovative product development and through continuing to make efficiency improvements. 

–  Advanced Wound Management – Management intends to develop this CGU by focusing on the higher added value sectors of exudate and infection management 

through improved wound bed preparation, moist and active healing and negative pressure wound therapy, and by continuing to improve efficiency. 

A long-term growth rate of 4% (2011 – 4%) in pre-tax cash flows is assumed after five years in calculating a terminal value for the Group’s CGUs. Management considers 
this to be an appropriate estimate based on the growth rates of the markets in which the Group operates. 

Management has considered the following sensitivities: 

–  Growth of market and market share – Management has considered the impact of a variance in market growth and market share. The value-in-use calculation shows 
that if the assumed long-term growth rate was reduced to nil, the recoverable amount of all of the CGUs independently would still be greater than their carrying values. 

–  Discount rate – Management has considered the impact of an increase in the discount rate applied to the calculation. The value-in-use calculation shows that for the 
recoverable amount of the CGU to be less than its carrying value, the discount rate would have to be increased to 31% for the Advanced Surgical Devices business 
and 49% (2011 – 51%) for the Advanced Wound Management business. 

9 Intangible assets 

Accounting policies 

Intangible assets 
Intangible assets acquired separately from a business combination (including purchased patents, know-how, trademarks, licences and distribution rights) are initially 
measured at cost. The cost of intangible assets acquired in a material business combination (referred to as acquisition intangibles) is the fair value as at the date of 
acquisition. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less any accumulated amortisation and any accumulated impairment losses. All intangible 
assets are amortised on a straight line basis over their estimated useful economic lives. The estimated useful economic life of an intangible asset ranges between three 
and 20 years depending on its nature. Internally generated intangible assets are expensed in the income statement as incurred. 

Purchased computer software and certain costs of information technology projects are capitalised as intangible assets. Software that is integral to computer hardware is 
capitalised as plant and equipment. 

Impairment of assets 
The carrying values of intangible assets are reviewed for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may be impaired. If any 
such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of impairment loss. Where it is not possible to estimate the 
recoverable amount of an individual asset, the Group estimates the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which it belongs. 

An asset’s recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s or cash-generating unit’s fair value less costs to sell and its value-in-use. In assessing value-in-use, its 
estimated future cash flow is discounted to its present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects the current market assessments of the time value of money and 
the risks specific to the asset. 

In carrying out impairment reviews of intangible assets a number of significant assumptions have to be made when preparing cash flow projections. These include 
the future rate of market growth, discount rates, the market demand for the products acquired, the future profitability of acquired businesses or products, levels of 
reimbursement and success in obtaining regulatory approvals. If actual results should differ, or changes in expectations arise, impairment charges may be required 
which would adversely impact operating results. 

Acquisition

intangibles

$ million

Software

$ million

Distribution 

Rights 

$ million 

Patents &

Intellectual

Property

$ million

Total 

$ million

1,109

440

(4)

–

–

–

–

–

436

11

662

200

(2)

36

–

–

234

6

43

–

283

826

202

145

1

32

(5)

(3)

170

1

–

37

(3)

205

47

–

22

(3)

(1)

65

26

–

–

91

114

105

53 

– 

7 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

60 

(17) 

43 

24 

– 

10 

– 

– 

34 

– 

10 

(17) 

27 

16 

26 

113

–

53

(1)

(22)

143

2

–

31

–

176

54

–

10

(1)

(10)

53

15

–

–

68

108

90

1,533

751

(3)

92

(6)

(25)

809

14

662

68

(20)

325

(2)

78

(4)

(11)

386

6

94

(17)

469

1,064

423

Cost 

At 1 January 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Additions 

Disposals 

Transferred to assets held for sale 

At 31 December 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Acquisitions (see Note 22.1) (i) 

Additions 

Disposals 

At 31 December 2012 

Amortisation and impairment 

Transferred to assets held for sale 

At 1 January 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Charge for the year 

Disposals 

At 31 December 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Charge for the year 

Disposals 

At 31 December 2012 

Net book amounts 

At 31 December 2012 

At 31 December 2011 

amortised over 15 years. 

Commitments 

(i) The vast majority of this balance relates to the acquisition of the product rights for two established Healthpoint products (see Note 22.1). These product rights will be 

Group capital expenditure relating to software contracted but not provided for amounted to $4m (2011 – $nil). 

In 2011, the Group was contractually committed to four milestone payments, which totalled $60m and related to the US approval and commercialisation of DUROLANE 

which would become payable under the terms of the agreement with Q-MED AB signed in June 2006. This commitment transferred to the Group’s new associate, 

Bioventus LLC following the disposal of the Clinical Therapies business during 2012. This transaction is detailed further in Note 22.2. 

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Group accounts continued 

8 Goodwill continued 

The calculation of value-in-use for the identified CGUs is most sensitive to discount and growth rates as set out below: 

The discount rate reflects management’s assessment of risks specific to the assets of each CGU. The pre-tax discount rate used in the Advanced Surgical Devices 

business is 10% and for the Advanced Wound Management business it is 9% (2011 – 9%). 

In determining the growth rate used in the calculation of the value-in-use, the Group considered the annual sales growth and trading profit margins. Projections are based 

on anticipated volume and value growth in the markets served by the Group and assumptions as to market share movements. Each year the projections for the previous 

year are compared to actual results and variances are factored into the assumptions used in the current year. Growth rates for the five-year period for the Advanced 

Surgical Devices business vary up to 7% and for the Advanced Wound Management business up to 9% (2011 – 8%). 

Specific considerations and strategies taken into account in determining the sales growth and trading profit margin for each CGU are: 

–  Advanced Surgical Devices – In the Advanced Surgical Devices CGU management intends to deliver growth through continuing to focus on the customer, high quality 

customer service, innovative product development and through continuing to make efficiency improvements. 

–  Advanced Wound Management – Management intends to develop this CGU by focusing on the higher added value sectors of exudate and infection management 

through improved wound bed preparation, moist and active healing and negative pressure wound therapy, and by continuing to improve efficiency. 

A long-term growth rate of 4% (2011 – 4%) in pre-tax cash flows is assumed after five years in calculating a terminal value for the Group’s CGUs. Management considers 

this to be an appropriate estimate based on the growth rates of the markets in which the Group operates. 

Management has considered the following sensitivities: 

–  Growth of market and market share – Management has considered the impact of a variance in market growth and market share. The value-in-use calculation shows 

that if the assumed long-term growth rate was reduced to nil, the recoverable amount of all of the CGUs independently would still be greater than their carrying values. 

–  Discount rate – Management has considered the impact of an increase in the discount rate applied to the calculation. The value-in-use calculation shows that for the 

recoverable amount of the CGU to be less than its carrying value, the discount rate would have to be increased to 31% for the Advanced Surgical Devices business 

and 49% (2011 – 51%) for the Advanced Wound Management business. 

9 Intangible assets 

Accounting policies 

Intangible assets 

capitalised as plant and equipment. 

Impairment of assets 

Intangible assets acquired separately from a business combination (including purchased patents, know-how, trademarks, licences and distribution rights) are initially 

measured at cost. The cost of intangible assets acquired in a material business combination (referred to as acquisition intangibles) is the fair value as at the date of 

acquisition. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less any accumulated amortisation and any accumulated impairment losses. All intangible 

assets are amortised on a straight line basis over their estimated useful economic lives. The estimated useful economic life of an intangible asset ranges between three 

and 20 years depending on its nature. Internally generated intangible assets are expensed in the income statement as incurred. 

Purchased computer software and certain costs of information technology projects are capitalised as intangible assets. Software that is integral to computer hardware is 

The carrying values of intangible assets are reviewed for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may be impaired. If any 

such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of impairment loss. Where it is not possible to estimate the 

recoverable amount of an individual asset, the Group estimates the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which it belongs. 

An asset’s recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s or cash-generating unit’s fair value less costs to sell and its value-in-use. In assessing value-in-use, its 

estimated future cash flow is discounted to its present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects the current market assessments of the time value of money and 

the risks specific to the asset. 

In carrying out impairment reviews of intangible assets a number of significant assumptions have to be made when preparing cash flow projections. These include 

the future rate of market growth, discount rates, the market demand for the products acquired, the future profitability of acquired businesses or products, levels of 

reimbursement and success in obtaining regulatory approvals. If actual results should differ, or changes in expectations arise, impairment charges may be required 

which would adversely impact operating results. 

109

Acquisition
intangibles
$ million

Software
$ million

Distribution 
Rights 
$ million 

Patents &
Intellectual
Property
$ million

Total 
$ million

440

(4)

–

–

–

436

11

662

–

–

1,109

200

(2)

36

–

–

234

6

43

–

283

826

202

145

1

32

(5)

(3)

170

1

–

37

(3)

205

47

–

22

(3)

(1)

65

–

26

–

91

114

105

53 

– 

7 

– 

– 

60 

– 

– 

– 

(17) 

43 

24 

– 

10 

– 

– 

34 

– 

10 

(17) 

27 

16 

26 

113

–

53

(1)

(22)

143

2

–

31

–

176

54

–

10

(1)

(10)

53

–

15

–

68

108

90

751

(3)

92

(6)

(25)

809

14

662

68

(20)

1,533

325

(2)

78

(4)

(11)

386

6

94

(17)

469

1,064

423

Cost 

At 1 January 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Additions 

Disposals 

Transferred to assets held for sale 

At 31 December 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Acquisitions (see Note 22.1) (i) 

Additions 

Disposals 

At 31 December 2012 

Amortisation and impairment 

At 1 January 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Charge for the year 

Disposals 

Transferred to assets held for sale 

At 31 December 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Charge for the year 

Disposals 

At 31 December 2012 

Net book amounts 

At 31 December 2012 

At 31 December 2011 

(i) The vast majority of this balance relates to the acquisition of the product rights for two established Healthpoint products (see Note 22.1). These product rights will be 
amortised over 15 years. 

Group capital expenditure relating to software contracted but not provided for amounted to $4m (2011 – $nil). 

Commitments 
In 2011, the Group was contractually committed to four milestone payments, which totalled $60m and related to the US approval and commercialisation of DUROLANE 
which would become payable under the terms of the agreement with Q-MED AB signed in June 2006. This commitment transferred to the Group’s new associate, 
Bioventus LLC following the disposal of the Clinical Therapies business during 2012. This transaction is detailed further in Note 22.2. 

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12 Inventories 

Accounting policy 

Finished goods and work-in-progress are valued at factory cost, including appropriate overheads, on a first-in first-out basis. Raw materials and bought-in finished 

goods are valued at purchase price. All inventories are reduced to net realisable value where lower than cost. Inventory acquired as part of a business acquisition 

is valued at selling price less costs of disposal and a profit allowance for selling efforts. 

Orthopaedic instruments are generally not sold but provided to customers and distributors for use in surgery. They are recorded as inventory until they are deployed 

at which point they are transferred to plant and equipment and depreciated over their useful economic lives of between three and five years. 

A feature of the orthopaedic business is the high level of product inventory required, some of which is located at customer premises and is available for customers’ 

immediate use (referred to as consignment inventory). Complete sets of product, including large and small sizes, have to be made available in this way. These outer 

sizes are used less frequently than standard sizes and towards the end of the product life cycle are inevitably in excess of requirements. Adjustments to carrying value 

are therefore required to be made to orthopaedic inventory to anticipate this situation. These adjustments are calculated in accordance with a formula based on levels 

of inventory compared with historical or forecast usage. This formula is applied on an individual product line basis and is first applied when a product group has been 

on the market for two years. This method of calculation is considered appropriate based on experience but it involves management judgments on effectiveness of 

inventory deployment, length of product lives, phase-out of old products and efficiency of manufacturing planning systems. 

Raw materials and consumables 

Work-in-progress 

Finished goods and goods for resale 

2012

$ million

138

45

718

901

2011 

$ million 

140 

24 

695 

859 

2010

$ million

159

23

741

923

Reserves for excess and obsolete inventories were $332m (2011 – $322m, 2010 – $322m). During 2012, $84m was recognised as an expense within cost of goods 

sold resulting from the write down of excess and obsolete inventory (2011 – $65m, 2010 – $66m). The cost of inventories recognised as an expense and included 

in cost of goods sold amounted to $906m (2011 – $991m, 2010 – $909m). 

No inventory is carried at fair value less costs to sell in any year. 

110

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

10 Investments 

Accounting policy 

Investments, other than those related to associates, are initially recorded at fair value plus transaction costs on the trade date. The Group has an investment in an entity 
that holds mainly unquoted equity securities, which by their very nature have no fixed maturity date or coupon rate. The investment is classed as ‘available-for-sale’ and 
carried at fair value. The fair value of the investment is based on the underlying fair value of the equity securities: marketable securities are valued by reference to closing 
prices in the market; non-marketable securities are estimated considering factors including the purchase price, prices of recent significant private placements of 
securities of the same issuer and estimates of liquidation value. The Group assesses whether there is objective evidence that the investment is impaired. Any objective 
evidence would include a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of the investment below its cost. Changes in fair value are recognised in other comprehensive 
income except where management considers that there is objective evidence of an impairment of the underlying equity securities, whereupon an impairment is 
recognised as an expense immediately. 

At 1 January 

Impairment 

At 31 December 

11 Investments in associates 

Accounting policy 

2012  
$ million 

4 

(2) 

2 

2011 
$ million

6 

(2)

4 

Investments in associates, being those entities over which the Group has a significant influence and which is neither a subsidiary nor a joint venture, are accounted 
for using the equity method, with the Group recording its share of the associate’s net income and equity. The Group’s share in the results of its associates is included 
in one separate income statement line and is calculated after deduction of their respective taxes.  

At 31 December 2011 and 31 December 2012, the Group holds 49% of the Austrian entities Plus Orthopedics GmbH and Intraplant GmbH and 20% of the German 
entity Intercus GmbH. In 2012, the profit after taxation recognised in the income statement relating to the Plus entity was $nil (2011 – $nil).  
In January 2012, the Group announced its intention to dispose of its Clinical Therapies business. This was completed on 4 May 2012. As part of the consideration, the 
Group received a 49% holding in a company called Bioventus LLC. The profit after taxation recognised in the income statement relating to Bioventus LLC for the period 
from acquisition was $4m. 

The following table summarises the financial position of the Group’s investment in these associates: 

2012  
$ million 

2011 
$ million

Share of results of associates: 

Revenue 

Operating costs and taxation 

Share of associates profit after taxation recognised in the income statement

Investments in associates at 1 January 

Investment of 49% in Bioventus 

Additional investment in Bioventus 

Dividends received  

Impairment of goodwill in Austrian associate 

Other non-cash movements 

Investments in associates at 31 December 

Investments in associates is represented by: 

Assets 

Liabilities 

Net assets 

Goodwill 

Loans to associates:  

Loan note receivable from Bioventus  

Accrued interest on loan note receivable 

80 

(76) 

4 

13 

104 

10 

 (7) 

(4) 

(4) 

116 

213 

(97) 

116 

– 

116 

160 

7 

167 

11

(11)

–

13

–

–

–

–

–

13

10

(1)

9

4

13

–

–

–

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
111

12 Inventories 

Accounting policy 

Finished goods and work-in-progress are valued at factory cost, including appropriate overheads, on a first-in first-out basis. Raw materials and bought-in finished 
goods are valued at purchase price. All inventories are reduced to net realisable value where lower than cost. Inventory acquired as part of a business acquisition 
is valued at selling price less costs of disposal and a profit allowance for selling efforts. 

Orthopaedic instruments are generally not sold but provided to customers and distributors for use in surgery. They are recorded as inventory until they are deployed 
at which point they are transferred to plant and equipment and depreciated over their useful economic lives of between three and five years. 

A feature of the orthopaedic business is the high level of product inventory required, some of which is located at customer premises and is available for customers’ 
immediate use (referred to as consignment inventory). Complete sets of product, including large and small sizes, have to be made available in this way. These outer 
sizes are used less frequently than standard sizes and towards the end of the product life cycle are inevitably in excess of requirements. Adjustments to carrying value 
are therefore required to be made to orthopaedic inventory to anticipate this situation. These adjustments are calculated in accordance with a formula based on levels 
of inventory compared with historical or forecast usage. This formula is applied on an individual product line basis and is first applied when a product group has been 
on the market for two years. This method of calculation is considered appropriate based on experience but it involves management judgments on effectiveness of 
inventory deployment, length of product lives, phase-out of old products and efficiency of manufacturing planning systems. 

Raw materials and consumables 

Work-in-progress 

Finished goods and goods for resale 

2012
$ million

138

45

718

901

2011 
$ million 

140 

24 

695 

859 

2010
$ million

159

23

741

923

Reserves for excess and obsolete inventories were $332m (2011 – $322m, 2010 – $322m). During 2012, $84m was recognised as an expense within cost of goods 
sold resulting from the write down of excess and obsolete inventory (2011 – $65m, 2010 – $66m). The cost of inventories recognised as an expense and included 
in cost of goods sold amounted to $906m (2011 – $991m, 2010 – $909m). 

No inventory is carried at fair value less costs to sell in any year. 

Investments, other than those related to associates, are initially recorded at fair value plus transaction costs on the trade date. The Group has an investment in an entity 

that holds mainly unquoted equity securities, which by their very nature have no fixed maturity date or coupon rate. The investment is classed as ‘available-for-sale’ and 

carried at fair value. The fair value of the investment is based on the underlying fair value of the equity securities: marketable securities are valued by reference to closing 

prices in the market; non-marketable securities are estimated considering factors including the purchase price, prices of recent significant private placements of 

securities of the same issuer and estimates of liquidation value. The Group assesses whether there is objective evidence that the investment is impaired. Any objective 

evidence would include a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of the investment below its cost. Changes in fair value are recognised in other comprehensive 

income except where management considers that there is objective evidence of an impairment of the underlying equity securities, whereupon an impairment is 

recognised as an expense immediately. 

Investments in associates, being those entities over which the Group has a significant influence and which is neither a subsidiary nor a joint venture, are accounted 

for using the equity method, with the Group recording its share of the associate’s net income and equity. The Group’s share in the results of its associates is included 

in one separate income statement line and is calculated after deduction of their respective taxes.  

At 31 December 2011 and 31 December 2012, the Group holds 49% of the Austrian entities Plus Orthopedics GmbH and Intraplant GmbH and 20% of the German 

entity Intercus GmbH. In 2012, the profit after taxation recognised in the income statement relating to the Plus entity was $nil (2011 – $nil).  

In January 2012, the Group announced its intention to dispose of its Clinical Therapies business. This was completed on 4 May 2012. As part of the consideration, the 

Group received a 49% holding in a company called Bioventus LLC. The profit after taxation recognised in the income statement relating to Bioventus LLC for the period 

from acquisition was $4m. 

The following table summarises the financial position of the Group’s investment in these associates: 

2012  

$ million 

2011 

$ million

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

10 Investments 

Accounting policy 

At 1 January 

Impairment 

At 31 December 

11 Investments in associates 

Accounting policy 

Share of associates profit after taxation recognised in the income statement

Share of results of associates: 

Revenue 

Operating costs and taxation 

Investments in associates at 1 January 

Investment of 49% in Bioventus 

Additional investment in Bioventus 

Dividends received  

Impairment of goodwill in Austrian associate 

Other non-cash movements 

Investments in associates at 31 December 

Investments in associates is represented by: 

Assets 

Liabilities 

Net assets 

Goodwill 

Loans to associates:  

Loan note receivable from Bioventus  

Accrued interest on loan note receivable 

2012  

$ million 

4 

(2) 

2 

2011 

$ million

6 

(2)

4 

80 

(76) 

4 

13 

104 

10 

 (7) 

(4) 

(4) 

116 

213 

(97) 

116 

– 

116 

160 

7 

167 

11

(11)

13

–

–

–

–

–

–

13

10

(1)

9

4

13

–

–

–

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112

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

13 Trade and other receivables 

Accounting policy 

Loans and receivables are carried at amortised cost, less any allowances for uncollectible amounts. They are included in current assets, except for maturities greater 
than 12 months after the balance sheet date. These are classified as non-current assets. Loans and other receivables are classified as ‘Trade and other receivables’ 
in the balance sheet. 

The Group manages credit risk through credit limits which require authorisation commensurate with the size of the limit and which are regularly reviewed. Credit limit 
decisions are made based on available financial information and the business case. Significant receivables are regularly reviewed and monitored at Group level. The 
Group has no significant concentration of credit risk, with exposure spread over a large number of customers. Furthermore the Group’s principal customers are backed 
by government and public or private medical insurance funding, which historically represent a lower risk of default. The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting 
date is the fair value of each class of receivable. The Group does not hold any collateral as security. 

Trade receivables 

Less: provision for bad and doubtful debts 

Trade receivables – net (loans and receivables)

Derivatives – forward foreign exchange contracts 

Other receivables 

Prepayments and accrued income 

Less non-current portion: Trade receivables 

Current portion 

2012
$ million

964

(49)

915

12

65

73

1,065

–

1,065

2011 
$ million 

936 

(36) 

900 

21 

50 

66 

1,037 

– 

1,037 

2010
$ million

952

(49)

903

23

55

65

1,046

(22)

1,024

Management considers that the carrying amount of trade and other receivables approximates to the fair value. 

The provision for bad and doubtful debts is based on specific assessments of risk and reference to past default experience. The bad debt expense for the year was 
$16m (2011 – $42m, 2010 – $30m). Amounts due from insurers in respect of the macrotextured claim of $137m (2011 – $136m, 2010 – $133m) are included within 
other receivables and have been provided in full. 

The amount of trade receivables that were past due but not impaired were as follows: 

2012
$ million

2011 
$ million 

2010
$ million

Bank overdrafts and loans due within one year 

Past due not more than three months 

Past due more than three months and not more than six months 

Past due more than six months and not more than one year 

Past due more than one year 

Neither past due nor impaired 

Provision for bad and doubtful debts 

Trade receivables – net (loans and receivables)

Movements in the provision for bad and doubtful debts were as follows:

At 1 January 

Exchange adjustment 

Receivables provided for during the year 

Utilisation of provision 

Provision transferred to assets held for sale 

At 31 December 

225

52

52

80

409

555

(49)

915

36

–

16

(3)

–

49

198 

51 

59 

94 

402 

534 

(36) 

900 

49 

(1) 

42 

(34) 

(20) 

36 

168

52

57

59

336

616

(49)

903

47

–

30

(28)

–

49

In 2012, $nil trade receivables from third parties are held under factoring agreements with recourse (2011 – $nil, 2010 – $11m). The amounts disclosed in prior years 
did not qualify for de-recognition as the Group retained part of the credit risk. The associated liability amounted to $4m in 2010 and was accounted for as a part of 
current payables. 

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Trade receivables include amounts denominated in the following major currencies: 

The acquisition consideration due after more than one year is expected to be payable as follows: $8m in 2014 (2011 – $8m in 2014). 

15 Cash and borrowings 

15.1 Net debt 

Net debt comprises borrowings and credit balances on currency swaps less cash and bank. 

2012  

$ million 

2011 

$ million

US Dollar 

Sterling 

Euro 

Other 

Trade receivables – net (loans and receivables) 

14 Trade and other payables 

Trade and other payables due within one year 

Trade and other payables 

Derivatives – forward foreign exchange contracts 

Acquisition consideration 

Other payables due after one year: 

Acquisition consideration 

Long-term borrowings 

Borrowings 

Cash and bank 

Net debt 

Debit balance on derivatives – currency swaps 

Borrowings are repayable as follows: 

At 31 December 2012: 

Bank loans 

Bank overdrafts 

Finance lease liabilities 

At 31 December 2011: 

Bank loans 

Bank overdrafts 

Finance lease liabilities 

2012

$ million

258

100

276

281

915

2011 

$ million 

238 

75 

317 

270 

900 

2010

$ million

282

72

283

266

903

2012  

$ million 

2011 

$ million

646 

10 

– 

656 

8 

38 

430 

468 

(178) 

(2) 

288 

– 

– 

2 

2 

– 

– 

2 

2 

549

12

3

564

8

306

16

322

(184)

–

138

441

11

16

468

281

23

18

322

Within 

one year or 

 on demand 

$ million 

Between

one and

two years

$ million

Between

Between

two and three 

three and four

years

$ million

years

$ million

Between 

four and 

five years 

$ million 

After

five years

$ million

Total 

$ million

25 

11 

2 

38 

280 

23 

3 

306 

1

–

2

3

1

–

1

2

415

417

–

2

–

–

2

2

–

–

2

2

–

–

2

2

–

–

6

6

–

–

8

8

Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Group accounts continued 

13 Trade and other receivables 

Accounting policy 

in the balance sheet. 

Loans and receivables are carried at amortised cost, less any allowances for uncollectible amounts. They are included in current assets, except for maturities greater 

than 12 months after the balance sheet date. These are classified as non-current assets. Loans and other receivables are classified as ‘Trade and other receivables’ 

The Group manages credit risk through credit limits which require authorisation commensurate with the size of the limit and which are regularly reviewed. Credit limit 

decisions are made based on available financial information and the business case. Significant receivables are regularly reviewed and monitored at Group level. The 

Group has no significant concentration of credit risk, with exposure spread over a large number of customers. Furthermore the Group’s principal customers are backed 

by government and public or private medical insurance funding, which historically represent a lower risk of default. The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting 

date is the fair value of each class of receivable. The Group does not hold any collateral as security. 

Management considers that the carrying amount of trade and other receivables approximates to the fair value. 

The provision for bad and doubtful debts is based on specific assessments of risk and reference to past default experience. The bad debt expense for the year was 

$16m (2011 – $42m, 2010 – $30m). Amounts due from insurers in respect of the macrotextured claim of $137m (2011 – $136m, 2010 – $133m) are included within 

other receivables and have been provided in full. 

The amount of trade receivables that were past due but not impaired were as follows: 

Trade receivables 

Less: provision for bad and doubtful debts 

Trade receivables – net (loans and receivables)

Derivatives – forward foreign exchange contracts 

Other receivables 

Prepayments and accrued income 

Less non-current portion: Trade receivables 

Current portion 

Past due not more than three months 

Past due more than three months and not more than six months 

Past due more than six months and not more than one year 

Past due more than one year 

Movements in the provision for bad and doubtful debts were as follows:

Neither past due nor impaired 

Provision for bad and doubtful debts 

Trade receivables – net (loans and receivables)

At 1 January 

Exchange adjustment 

Receivables provided for during the year 

Utilisation of provision 

Provision transferred to assets held for sale 

At 31 December 

2012

$ million

964

(49)

915

12

65

73

–

1,065

1,065

225

52

52

80

409

555

(49)

915

36

–

16

(3)

–

49

2011 

$ million 

936 

(36) 

900 

21 

50 

66 

1,037 

– 

1,037 

198 

51 

59 

94 

402 

534 

(36) 

900 

49 

(1) 

42 

(34) 

(20) 

36 

2010

$ million

952

(49)

903

23

55

65

1,046

(22)

1,024

168

52

57

59

336

616

(49)

903

47

–

30

(28)

–

49

In 2012, $nil trade receivables from third parties are held under factoring agreements with recourse (2011 – $nil, 2010 – $11m). The amounts disclosed in prior years 

did not qualify for de-recognition as the Group retained part of the credit risk. The associated liability amounted to $4m in 2010 and was accounted for as a part of 

current payables. 

113

2010
$ million

282

72

283

266

903

2012
$ million

258

100

276

281

915

2011 
$ million 

238 

75 

317 

270 

900 

2012  
$ million 

2011 
$ million

646 

10 

– 

656 

8 

549

12

3

564

8

Trade receivables include amounts denominated in the following major currencies: 

US Dollar 

Sterling 

Euro 

Other 

Trade receivables – net (loans and receivables) 

14 Trade and other payables 

Trade and other payables due within one year 

Trade and other payables 

Derivatives – forward foreign exchange contracts 

Acquisition consideration 

Other payables due after one year: 

Acquisition consideration 

The acquisition consideration due after more than one year is expected to be payable as follows: $8m in 2014 (2011 – $8m in 2014). 

15 Cash and borrowings 

15.1 Net debt 
Net debt comprises borrowings and credit balances on currency swaps less cash and bank. 

2012

$ million

2011 

$ million 

2010

$ million

Bank overdrafts and loans due within one year 

Long-term borrowings 

Borrowings 

Cash and bank 

Debit balance on derivatives – currency swaps 

Net debt 

Borrowings are repayable as follows: 

At 31 December 2012: 

Bank loans 

Bank overdrafts 

Finance lease liabilities 

At 31 December 2011: 

Bank loans 

Bank overdrafts 

Finance lease liabilities 

2012  
$ million 

2011 
$ million

38 

430 

468 

(178) 

(2) 

288 

306

16

322

(184)

–

138

Within 
one year or 
 on demand 
$ million 

Between
one and
two years
$ million

Between
two and three 
years
$ million

Between
three and four
years
$ million

Between 
four and 
five years 
$ million 

After
five years
$ million

Total 
$ million

25 

11 

2 

38 

280 

23 

3 

306 

1

–

2

3

1

–

1

2

415

–

2

417

–

–

2

2

–

–

2

2

–

–

2

2

– 

– 

2 

2 

– 

– 

2 

2 

–

–

6

6

–

–

8

8

441

11

16

468

281

23

18

322

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overviewstrategy and performancemarketplace and business reviewsustainability reviewfinancial review  and principal riskscorporate  governanceaccounts and  other informationsection 7 accounts and other information 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
114

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

15 Cash and borrowings continued 

15.2 Assets pledged as security 
Assets are pledged as security under normal market conditions. Secured borrowings and pledged assets are as follows: 

Finance lease liabilities – due within one year 

Finance lease liabilities – due after one year 

Total amount of secured borrowings 

Total net book value of assets pledged as security: 

Property, plant and equipment 

2012  
$ million 

2011 
$ million

borrowing facilities. 

2 

14 

16 

11 

11 

3

15

18

20

20

15.3 Currency swap analysis 
All currency swaps are stated at fair value. Gross US Dollar equivalents of $175m (2011 – $112m) receivable and $173m (2011 – $112m) payable have been netted. 
Currency swaps comprise foreign exchange swaps and were used in 2012 and 2011 to hedge intragroup loans and other monetary items. 

Currency swaps mature as follows: 

At 31 December 2012 

Within one year: 

Euro 

Japanese Yen 

Canadian Dollar 

At 31 December 2012 

Within one year: 

New Zealand Dollar 

Swiss Franc 

Swedish Krona 

Australian Dollar 

Japanese Yen 

At 31 December 2011 

Within one year: 

Euro 

Japanese Yen 

Canadian Dollar 

At 31 December 2011 

Within one year: 

Swiss France 

Swedish Krona 

Australian Dollar 

Amount receivable  
$ million 

Amount payable 
Currency million

76 

19 

17 

112 

EUR 58

JPY 1,500

CAD 17

Amount receivable 
Currency million 

Amount payable 
$ million

NZD 1 

CHF 35 

SEK 33 

AUD 14 

JPY 335 

1

38

5

15

4

63

Amount receivable  
$ million 

Amount payable 
Currency million

1 

20  

33  

54  

EUR 1

JPY 1,500 

CAD 34

Amount receivable  
Currency million 

Amount payable 
$ million

CHF 18 

SEK 20 

AUD 36  

19

3

36

58

15.4 Liquidity risk exposures 

associated with underlying business activities and their financing. 

The Board has established a set of policies to manage funding and currency risks. The Group uses derivative financial instruments only to manage the financial risks 

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group is not able to settle or meet its obligations on time or at a reasonable price. The Group’s policy is to ensure that there is sufficient 

funding and facilities in place to meet foreseeable borrowing requirements. The Group manages and monitors liquidity risk through regular reporting of current cash 

and borrowing balances and periodic preparation and review of short- and medium-term cash forecasts having regard to the maturities of investments and 

Bank loans and overdrafts represent drawings under total committed facilities of $1,017m (2011 – $1,259m) and total uncommitted facilities of $341m (2011 – $375m). 

The Group has undrawn committed facilities of $597m (2011 – $1,003m). Of the undrawn committed facilities, $586m expires after two but within five years (2011 – 

$1,000m expired after two but within five years). The interest payable on borrowings under committed facilities is at floating rate and is typically based on the LIBOR 

interest rate relevant to the term and currency concerned. Borrowings are shown at book value which approximates to fair value. 

In December 2010, the Company entered into a five-year $1 billion multi-currency revolving facility with an initial interest rate of 70 basis points over LIBOR. The 

commitment fee on the undrawn amount of the revolving facility is 24.5 basis points. The Company is subject to restrictive covenants under the facility agreement 

requiring the Group’s ratio of net debt to EBITDA to not exceed 3.0 to 1 and the ratio of EBITA to net interest to not be less than 3.0 to 1, with net debt, EBITDA, EBITA and 

net interest all being calculated as defined in the agreement. These financial covenants are tested at the end of each half year for the 12 months ending on the last day 

of the testing period. As of 31 December 2012, the Company was in compliance with these covenants. The facility is also subject to customary events of default, none 

of which are currently anticipated to occur. 

15.5 Year-end financial liabilities by contractual maturity 

The table below analyses the Group’s year-end financial liabilities by contractual maturity date, including interest payments and excluding the impact of 

netting arrangements: 

Currency swaps/forward foreign exchange contracts – outflow 

Currency swaps/forward foreign exchange contracts – inflow 

15

427 

At 31 December 2012 

Non-derivative financial liabilities: 

Bank overdrafts and loans 

Trade and other payables 

Finance lease liabilities 

Derivative financial liabilities: 

At 31 December 2011 

Non-derivative financial liabilities: 

Bank overdrafts and loans 

Trade and other payables 

Finance lease liabilities 

Derivative financial liabilities: 

Currency swaps/forward foreign exchange contracts – outflow 

Currency swaps/forward foreign exchange contracts – inflow 

Within one

 year or on

 demand

$ million

Between

one and

two years

$ million

Between 

two and 

five years 

$ million 

After

five years

$ million

Total 

$ million

42

646

3

1,422

(1,424)

689

305

549

4

1,053

(1,052)

859

4

8

3

–

–

–

–

3

–

–

3

418 

– 

9 

– 

– 

– 

– 

9 

– 

– 

9 

–

–

6

–

–

6

–

–

9

–

–

9

464

654

21

1,422

(1,424)

1,137

305

549

25

1,053

(1,052)

880

The amounts in the tables above are undiscounted cash flows, which differ from the amounts included in the balance sheet where the underlying cash flows have 

been discounted. 

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Group accounts continued 

15 Cash and borrowings continued 

15.2 Assets pledged as security 

Assets are pledged as security under normal market conditions. Secured borrowings and pledged assets are as follows: 

All currency swaps are stated at fair value. Gross US Dollar equivalents of $175m (2011 – $112m) receivable and $173m (2011 – $112m) payable have been netted. 

Currency swaps comprise foreign exchange swaps and were used in 2012 and 2011 to hedge intragroup loans and other monetary items. 

Finance lease liabilities – due within one year 

Finance lease liabilities – due after one year 

Total amount of secured borrowings 

Total net book value of assets pledged as security: 

Property, plant and equipment 

15.3 Currency swap analysis 

Currency swaps mature as follows: 

At 31 December 2012 

Within one year: 

Euro 

Japanese Yen 

Canadian Dollar 

At 31 December 2012 

Within one year: 

New Zealand Dollar 

Swiss Franc 

Swedish Krona 

Australian Dollar 

Japanese Yen 

At 31 December 2011 

Within one year: 

Euro 

Japanese Yen 

Canadian Dollar 

At 31 December 2011 

Within one year: 

Swiss France 

Swedish Krona 

Australian Dollar 

2012  

$ million 

2011 

$ million

2 

14 

16 

11 

11 

76 

19 

17 

112 

NZD 1 

CHF 35 

SEK 33 

AUD 14 

JPY 335 

1 

20  

33  

54  

CHF 18 

SEK 20 

AUD 36  

Amount receivable  

$ million 

Amount payable 

Currency million

EUR 58

JPY 1,500

CAD 17

Amount receivable 

Currency million 

Amount payable 

$ million

Amount receivable  

$ million 

Amount payable 

Currency million

EUR 1

JPY 1,500 

CAD 34

Amount receivable  

Currency million 

Amount payable 

$ million

3

15

18

20

20

1

38

5

15

4

63

19

3

36

58

115

15.4 Liquidity risk exposures 
The Board has established a set of policies to manage funding and currency risks. The Group uses derivative financial instruments only to manage the financial risks 
associated with underlying business activities and their financing. 

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group is not able to settle or meet its obligations on time or at a reasonable price. The Group’s policy is to ensure that there is sufficient 
funding and facilities in place to meet foreseeable borrowing requirements. The Group manages and monitors liquidity risk through regular reporting of current cash 
and borrowing balances and periodic preparation and review of short- and medium-term cash forecasts having regard to the maturities of investments and 
borrowing facilities. 

Bank loans and overdrafts represent drawings under total committed facilities of $1,017m (2011 – $1,259m) and total uncommitted facilities of $341m (2011 – $375m). 
The Group has undrawn committed facilities of $597m (2011 – $1,003m). Of the undrawn committed facilities, $586m expires after two but within five years (2011 – 
$1,000m expired after two but within five years). The interest payable on borrowings under committed facilities is at floating rate and is typically based on the LIBOR 
interest rate relevant to the term and currency concerned. Borrowings are shown at book value which approximates to fair value. 

In December 2010, the Company entered into a five-year $1 billion multi-currency revolving facility with an initial interest rate of 70 basis points over LIBOR. The 
commitment fee on the undrawn amount of the revolving facility is 24.5 basis points. The Company is subject to restrictive covenants under the facility agreement 
requiring the Group’s ratio of net debt to EBITDA to not exceed 3.0 to 1 and the ratio of EBITA to net interest to not be less than 3.0 to 1, with net debt, EBITDA, EBITA and 
net interest all being calculated as defined in the agreement. These financial covenants are tested at the end of each half year for the 12 months ending on the last day 
of the testing period. As of 31 December 2012, the Company was in compliance with these covenants. The facility is also subject to customary events of default, none 
of which are currently anticipated to occur. 

15.5 Year-end financial liabilities by contractual maturity 
The table below analyses the Group’s year-end financial liabilities by contractual maturity date, including interest payments and excluding the impact of 
netting arrangements: 

At 31 December 2012 

Non-derivative financial liabilities: 

Bank overdrafts and loans 

Trade and other payables 

Finance lease liabilities 

Derivative financial liabilities: 

Currency swaps/forward foreign exchange contracts – outflow 

Currency swaps/forward foreign exchange contracts – inflow 

At 31 December 2011 

Non-derivative financial liabilities: 

Bank overdrafts and loans 

Trade and other payables 

Finance lease liabilities 

Derivative financial liabilities: 

Currency swaps/forward foreign exchange contracts – outflow 

Currency swaps/forward foreign exchange contracts – inflow 

Within one
 year or on
 demand
$ million

Between
one and
two years
$ million

Between 
two and 
five years 
$ million 

After
five years
$ million

Total 
$ million

42

646

3

1,422

(1,424)

689

305

549

4

1,053

(1,052)

859

4

8

3

–

–

418 

– 

9 

– 

– 

15

427 

–

–

3

–

–

3

– 

– 

9 

– 

– 

9 

–

–

6

–

–

6

–

–

9

–

–

9

464

654

21

1,422

(1,424)

1,137

305

549

25

1,053

(1,052)

880

The amounts in the tables above are undiscounted cash flows, which differ from the amounts included in the balance sheet where the underlying cash flows have 
been discounted. 

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116

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

15 Cash and borrowings continued 

15.6 Finance leases 

Accounting policy 

Leases are classified as finance leases when the terms of the lease transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to the Group. All other leases are 
classified as operating leases. 

Assets held under finance leases are capitalised as property, plant or equipment and depreciated accordingly. The capital element of future lease payments is included 
in borrowings and interest is charged to profit before taxation on a reducing balance basis over the term of the lease. 

Future minimum lease payments under finance leases together with the present value of the minimum lease payments are as follows: 

Within one year 

After one and within two years 

After two and within three years 

After three and within four years 

After four and within five years  

After five years 

Total minimum lease payments 

Discounted by imputed interest 

Present value of minimum lease payments 

2012  
$ million 

2011 
$ million

3 

3 

3 

3 

3 

6 

21 

(5) 

16 

4

3

3

3

3

9

25

(7)

18

Present value of minimum lease payments can be split out as: $2m (2011 – $3m) due within one year, $8m (2011 – $7m) due between one to five years and 
$6m (2011 – $8m) due after five years. 

16 Financial instruments and risk management 

Accounting policy 

Derivative financial instruments  
Derivative financial instruments are initially recognised at fair value on the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured at their fair value 
at subsequent balance sheet dates. The fair value of forward foreign exchange contracts is calculated by reference to current forward exchange rates for contracts with 
similar maturity profiles. The fair value of interest rate swap contracts is determined by reference to market values for similar instruments and includes counterparty 
credit risk. 

Changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments that are designated and effective as cash flow hedges of forecast third party and intercompany transactions 
are recognised in other comprehensive income until the associated asset or liability is recognised. Amounts taken to other comprehensive income are transferred to the 
income statement when the hedged transaction affects profit and loss. Where the hedged item is the cost of a non-financial asset, the amounts taken to other 
comprehensive income are transferred to the initial carrying value of the asset. 

Currency swaps to match foreign currency net assets with foreign currency liabilities are fair valued at year-end. Changes in the fair values of currency swaps that are 
designated and effective as net investment hedges are matched in other comprehensive income against changes in value of the related net assets. 

Interest rate swaps transacted to fix interest rates on floating rate borrowings are accounted for as cash flow hedges and changes in the fair values resulting from 
changes in market interest rates are recognised in other comprehensive income. Amounts taken to other comprehensive income are transferred to the income 
statement when the hedged transaction affects profit and loss. 

Any ineffectiveness on hedging instruments and changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments that do not qualify for hedge accounting are recognised 
in the income statement within other finance income/(costs) as they arise. 

Hedge accounting is discontinued when the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised, or no longer qualifies for hedge accounting. At that point 
in time, any cumulative gain or loss on the hedging instrument recognised in other comprehensive income is retained there until the forecast transaction occurs. If a 
hedged transaction is no longer expected to occur, the net cumulative gain or loss recognised in other comprehensive income is transferred to the income statement 
for the period.  

16.1 Foreign exchange exposures 

The Group operates in over 90 countries and as a consequence has transactional and translational foreign exchange exposure. The Group’s policy is to limit the impact 

of foreign exchange movements on equity by holding liabilities where practical in the same currencies as the Group’s non-US Dollar assets. These liabilities take the 

form of either borrowings or currency swaps. The Group designates a portion of foreign currency borrowings in non-operating units as net investment hedges. As at 

31 December 2012, CHFnil (2011 – CHF32m) of Group borrowings were designated as net investment hedges; the movement in the fair value of these hedges 

attributable to changes in exchange rates is recognised directly in other comprehensive income. The fair value of these hedges at 31 December 2012 was $nil  

(2011 – $34m). It is Group policy for operating units not to hold material unhedged monetary assets or liabilities other than in their functional currencies. 

Foreign exchange variations affect trading results in two ways. Firstly, on translation of overseas sales and profits into US Dollars and secondly, transactional exposures 

arising where some or all of the costs of sale are incurred in a different currency from the sale. The principal transactional exposures arise as the proportion of costs in US 

Dollars, Sterling and Swiss Francs exceed the proportion of sales in each of these currencies and correspondingly the proportion of sales in Euros exceeds the proportion 

of costs in Euros. 

The impact of currency movements on the cost of purchases is partly mitigated by the use of forward foreign exchange contracts. The Group uses forward foreign 

exchange contracts, designated as cash flow hedges, to hedge forecast third party and intercompany trading cash flows for forecast foreign currency inventory purchases 

for up to one year. When a commitment is entered into, forward foreign exchange contracts are normally used to increase the hedge to 100% of the exposure. Cash flows 

relating to cash flow hedges are expected to occur within twelve months of inception and profits and losses on hedges are expected to enter into the determination of 

profit (within cost of goods sold) within a further 12-month period. The principal currencies hedged by forward foreign exchange contracts are US Dollars, Euros and 

Sterling. At 31 December 2012, the Group had contracted to exchange within one year the equivalent of $1,250m (2011 – $940m). 

Based on the Group’s borrowings as at 31 December 2012, if the US Dollar were to weaken against all currencies by 10%, the Group’s net borrowings would decrease 

by $8m (2011 – increase of $11m). In respect of borrowings held in a different currency to the relevant reporting entity, if the US Dollar were to weaken by 10% against all 

other currencies, the Group’s borrowings would decrease by $4m (2011 –  increase of $16m). Excluding borrowings designated as net investment hedges, the decrease 

would be $4m (2011 – increase of $13m); this would be fully offset by corresponding movements in group loan values. 

If the US Dollar were to weaken by 10% against all other currencies, then the fair value of the forward foreign exchange contracts as at 31 December 2012 would have 

been $23m lower (2011 – $17m), which would be recognised through the hedging reserve. Similarly, if the Euro were to weaken by 10% against all other currencies, 

then the fair value of the forward foreign exchange contracts as at 31 December 2012 would have been $30m higher (2011 – $24m). 

A 10% strengthening of the US Dollar or Euro against all other currencies at 31 December 2012 would have had the equal but opposite effect to the amounts shown 

above, on the basis that all other variables remain constant. 

Since it is the Group’s policy to hedge all actual foreign exchange exposures and the Group’s forward foreign exchange contracts are designated as cash flow hedges, 

the net impact of transaction related foreign exchange on the income statement from a movement in exchange rates on the value of forward foreign exchange contracts 

is not significant. In addition, the movements in the fair value of other financial instruments used for hedging such as currency swaps for which hedge accounting is not 

applied, offset movements in the values of assets and liabilities and are recognised through the income statement.  

16.2 Interest rate exposures 

The Group is exposed to interest rate risk on cash, borrowings and certain currency swaps which are all at floating rates. The Group uses floating to fixed interest swaps 

to meet its objective of protecting borrowing costs within parameters set by the Board. Interest rate swaps are accounted for as cash flow hedges and, as such, changes 

in fair value resulting from changes in market interest rates are recognised in other comprehensive income, with the fair value of the interest rate swaps recorded in the 

balance sheet. The cash flows resulting from interest rate swaps match cash flows on the underlying borrowings so that there is no net cash flow from movements in 

market interest rates on the hedged items. At 31 December 2012 the Group had no interest rate swaps (2011 – $nil). 

Based on the Group’s gross borrowings as at 31 December 2012, if interest rates were to increase by 100 basis points in all currencies then the annual net interest 

charge would increase by $5m (2011 – $4m). Excluding the impact of the Group’s interest rate hedges, the increase in the interest charge would be $5m (2011 – $4m). 

A decrease in interest rates by 100 basis points in all currencies would have an equal but opposite effect to the amounts shown above. 

16.3 Credit risk exposures 

The Group limits exposure to credit risk on counterparties used for financial instruments through a system of internal credit limits which, with certain minor exceptions 

due to local market conditions, require counterparties to have a minimum ‘A’ rating from one of the major ratings agencies. The financial exposure of a counterparty 

is determined as the total of cash and deposits, plus the risk on derivative instruments, assessed as the fair value of the instrument plus a risk element based on the 

nominal value and the historic volatility of the market value of the instrument. The Group does not anticipate non-performance of counterparties and believes it is not 

subject to material concentration of credit risk as the Group operates within a policy of counterparty limits designed to reduce exposure to any single counterparty. 

The maximum credit risk exposure on derivatives at 31 December 2012 was $14m (2011 – $21m), being the total debit fair values on forward foreign exchange 

contracts, interest rate swaps and currency swaps. The maximum credit risk exposure on cash and bank at 31 December 2012 was $178m (2011 – $184m). 

The Group’s exposure to credit risk is not material as the amounts are held in a wide number of banks in a number of different countries. 

Credit risk on trade receivables is detailed in Note 13. 

015914_Smith&Nephew_AR12_p89-164.indd   116

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Group accounts continued 

15 Cash and borrowings continued 

15.6 Finance leases 

Accounting policy 

classified as operating leases. 

Within one year 

After one and within two years 

After two and within three years 

After three and within four years 

After four and within five years  

After five years 

Total minimum lease payments 

Discounted by imputed interest 

Present value of minimum lease payments 

$6m (2011 – $8m) due after five years. 

Leases are classified as finance leases when the terms of the lease transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to the Group. All other leases are 

Assets held under finance leases are capitalised as property, plant or equipment and depreciated accordingly. The capital element of future lease payments is included 

in borrowings and interest is charged to profit before taxation on a reducing balance basis over the term of the lease. 

Future minimum lease payments under finance leases together with the present value of the minimum lease payments are as follows: 

2012  

$ million 

2011 

$ million

3 

3 

3 

3 

3 

6 

21 

(5) 

16 

4

3

3

3

3

9

25

(7)

18

Present value of minimum lease payments can be split out as: $2m (2011 – $3m) due within one year, $8m (2011 – $7m) due between one to five years and 

16 Financial instruments and risk management 

Accounting policy 

Derivative financial instruments  

Derivative financial instruments are initially recognised at fair value on the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured at their fair value 

at subsequent balance sheet dates. The fair value of forward foreign exchange contracts is calculated by reference to current forward exchange rates for contracts with 

similar maturity profiles. The fair value of interest rate swap contracts is determined by reference to market values for similar instruments and includes counterparty 

credit risk. 

Changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments that are designated and effective as cash flow hedges of forecast third party and intercompany transactions 

are recognised in other comprehensive income until the associated asset or liability is recognised. Amounts taken to other comprehensive income are transferred to the 

income statement when the hedged transaction affects profit and loss. Where the hedged item is the cost of a non-financial asset, the amounts taken to other 

comprehensive income are transferred to the initial carrying value of the asset. 

Currency swaps to match foreign currency net assets with foreign currency liabilities are fair valued at year-end. Changes in the fair values of currency swaps that are 

designated and effective as net investment hedges are matched in other comprehensive income against changes in value of the related net assets. 

Interest rate swaps transacted to fix interest rates on floating rate borrowings are accounted for as cash flow hedges and changes in the fair values resulting from 

changes in market interest rates are recognised in other comprehensive income. Amounts taken to other comprehensive income are transferred to the income 

statement when the hedged transaction affects profit and loss. 

Any ineffectiveness on hedging instruments and changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments that do not qualify for hedge accounting are recognised 

in the income statement within other finance income/(costs) as they arise. 

Hedge accounting is discontinued when the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised, or no longer qualifies for hedge accounting. At that point 

in time, any cumulative gain or loss on the hedging instrument recognised in other comprehensive income is retained there until the forecast transaction occurs. If a 

hedged transaction is no longer expected to occur, the net cumulative gain or loss recognised in other comprehensive income is transferred to the income statement 

for the period.  

117

16.1 Foreign exchange exposures 
The Group operates in over 90 countries and as a consequence has transactional and translational foreign exchange exposure. The Group’s policy is to limit the impact 
of foreign exchange movements on equity by holding liabilities where practical in the same currencies as the Group’s non-US Dollar assets. These liabilities take the 
form of either borrowings or currency swaps. The Group designates a portion of foreign currency borrowings in non-operating units as net investment hedges. As at 
31 December 2012, CHFnil (2011 – CHF32m) of Group borrowings were designated as net investment hedges; the movement in the fair value of these hedges 
attributable to changes in exchange rates is recognised directly in other comprehensive income. The fair value of these hedges at 31 December 2012 was $nil  
(2011 – $34m). It is Group policy for operating units not to hold material unhedged monetary assets or liabilities other than in their functional currencies. 

Foreign exchange variations affect trading results in two ways. Firstly, on translation of overseas sales and profits into US Dollars and secondly, transactional exposures 
arising where some or all of the costs of sale are incurred in a different currency from the sale. The principal transactional exposures arise as the proportion of costs in US 
Dollars, Sterling and Swiss Francs exceed the proportion of sales in each of these currencies and correspondingly the proportion of sales in Euros exceeds the proportion 
of costs in Euros. 

The impact of currency movements on the cost of purchases is partly mitigated by the use of forward foreign exchange contracts. The Group uses forward foreign 
exchange contracts, designated as cash flow hedges, to hedge forecast third party and intercompany trading cash flows for forecast foreign currency inventory purchases 
for up to one year. When a commitment is entered into, forward foreign exchange contracts are normally used to increase the hedge to 100% of the exposure. Cash flows 
relating to cash flow hedges are expected to occur within twelve months of inception and profits and losses on hedges are expected to enter into the determination of 
profit (within cost of goods sold) within a further 12-month period. The principal currencies hedged by forward foreign exchange contracts are US Dollars, Euros and 
Sterling. At 31 December 2012, the Group had contracted to exchange within one year the equivalent of $1,250m (2011 – $940m). 

Based on the Group’s borrowings as at 31 December 2012, if the US Dollar were to weaken against all currencies by 10%, the Group’s net borrowings would decrease 
by $8m (2011 – increase of $11m). In respect of borrowings held in a different currency to the relevant reporting entity, if the US Dollar were to weaken by 10% against all 
other currencies, the Group’s borrowings would decrease by $4m (2011 –  increase of $16m). Excluding borrowings designated as net investment hedges, the decrease 
would be $4m (2011 – increase of $13m); this would be fully offset by corresponding movements in group loan values. 

If the US Dollar were to weaken by 10% against all other currencies, then the fair value of the forward foreign exchange contracts as at 31 December 2012 would have 
been $23m lower (2011 – $17m), which would be recognised through the hedging reserve. Similarly, if the Euro were to weaken by 10% against all other currencies, 
then the fair value of the forward foreign exchange contracts as at 31 December 2012 would have been $30m higher (2011 – $24m). 

A 10% strengthening of the US Dollar or Euro against all other currencies at 31 December 2012 would have had the equal but opposite effect to the amounts shown 
above, on the basis that all other variables remain constant. 

Since it is the Group’s policy to hedge all actual foreign exchange exposures and the Group’s forward foreign exchange contracts are designated as cash flow hedges, 
the net impact of transaction related foreign exchange on the income statement from a movement in exchange rates on the value of forward foreign exchange contracts 
is not significant. In addition, the movements in the fair value of other financial instruments used for hedging such as currency swaps for which hedge accounting is not 
applied, offset movements in the values of assets and liabilities and are recognised through the income statement.  

16.2 Interest rate exposures 
The Group is exposed to interest rate risk on cash, borrowings and certain currency swaps which are all at floating rates. The Group uses floating to fixed interest swaps 
to meet its objective of protecting borrowing costs within parameters set by the Board. Interest rate swaps are accounted for as cash flow hedges and, as such, changes 
in fair value resulting from changes in market interest rates are recognised in other comprehensive income, with the fair value of the interest rate swaps recorded in the 
balance sheet. The cash flows resulting from interest rate swaps match cash flows on the underlying borrowings so that there is no net cash flow from movements in 
market interest rates on the hedged items. At 31 December 2012 the Group had no interest rate swaps (2011 – $nil). 

Based on the Group’s gross borrowings as at 31 December 2012, if interest rates were to increase by 100 basis points in all currencies then the annual net interest 
charge would increase by $5m (2011 – $4m). Excluding the impact of the Group’s interest rate hedges, the increase in the interest charge would be $5m (2011 – $4m). 
A decrease in interest rates by 100 basis points in all currencies would have an equal but opposite effect to the amounts shown above. 

16.3 Credit risk exposures 
The Group limits exposure to credit risk on counterparties used for financial instruments through a system of internal credit limits which, with certain minor exceptions 
due to local market conditions, require counterparties to have a minimum ‘A’ rating from one of the major ratings agencies. The financial exposure of a counterparty 
is determined as the total of cash and deposits, plus the risk on derivative instruments, assessed as the fair value of the instrument plus a risk element based on the 
nominal value and the historic volatility of the market value of the instrument. The Group does not anticipate non-performance of counterparties and believes it is not 
subject to material concentration of credit risk as the Group operates within a policy of counterparty limits designed to reduce exposure to any single counterparty. 

The maximum credit risk exposure on derivatives at 31 December 2012 was $14m (2011 – $21m), being the total debit fair values on forward foreign exchange 
contracts, interest rate swaps and currency swaps. The maximum credit risk exposure on cash and bank at 31 December 2012 was $178m (2011 – $184m). 
The Group’s exposure to credit risk is not material as the amounts are held in a wide number of banks in a number of different countries. 

Credit risk on trade receivables is detailed in Note 13. 

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overviewstrategy and performancemarketplace and business reviewsustainability reviewfinancial review  and principal riskscorporate  governanceaccounts and  other informationsection 7 accounts and other information 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
118

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

16 Financial instruments and risk management continued 

16.4 Currency and interest rate profile of interest bearing liabilities and assets 
Short-term debtors and creditors are excluded from the following disclosures. 

Currency and Interest Rate Profile of Interest Bearing Liabilities: 

Gross 
borrowings  
$ million 

Currency 
swaps
$ million

Total 
liabilities
$ million

Floating 
rate liabilities
$ million

Fixed 
rate liabilities 
$ million 

Fixed rate liabilities

Weighted 
average 
Interest 
rate 
% 

Weighted 
average time
for which
rate is fixed
Years

432 

7 

29 

468 

85 

35 

126 

76 

322 

62

76

35

173

58

–

1

53

112

494

83

64

641

143

35

127

129

434

478

83

64

625

126

35

126

129

416

16 

– 

– 

16 

17 

– 

1 

– 

18 

7.1 

– 

– 

7.1 

3.0 

5.0 

– 

4

–

–

5

2

2

–

At 31 December 2012: 

US Dollar 

Euro 

Other 

Total interest bearing liabilities 

At 31 December 2011: 

US Dollar 

Swiss Franc 

Euro 

Other 

Total interest bearing liabilities 

At 31 December 2012, $16m (2011 – $18m) of fixed rate liabilities relate to finance leases. In 2012, the Group also had liabilities due for deferred acquisition 
consideration (denominated in US Dollars, Euro and Yen) totalling $8m (2011 – $11m, 2010 – $nil) on which no interest was payable (see Note 14). There are no other 
significant interest bearing financial liabilities. 

Floating rates on liabilities are typically based on the one or three-month LIBOR interest rate relevant to the currency concerned. The weighted average interest rate on 
floating rate borrowings as at 31 December 2012 was 1% (2011 – 2%). 

Currency and Interest Rate Profile of Interest Bearing Assets: 

At 31 December 2012: 

US Dollars 

Other 

Total interest bearing assets 

At 31 December 2011: 

US Dollars 

Other 

Total interest bearing assets 

Cash
and bank
$ million

Currency
swaps
$ million

Total assets 
$ million 

Floating
rate assets
$ million

59

119

178

56

128

184

113

62

175

56

56

112

172 

181 

353 

112 

184 

296 

172

181

353

112

184

296

Floating rates on assets are typically based on the short-term deposit rates relevant to the currency concerned. There were no fixed rate assets at 31 December 2012 
or 31 December 2011. 

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16.5 Fair value of financial assets and liabilities 

values approximate the fair values because of their short-term nature. 

For cash and cash equivalents, short-term loans and receivables, overdrafts and other short-term liabilities which have a maturity of less than three months the book 

Forward foreign exchange contracts are recorded at fair value. These are regarded as Level 2 financial instruments measured at fair value. Level 2 financial instruments 

are defined as: Valuation techniques for which all observable inputs have a significant effect on the recorded fair values, either directly or indirectly. The Group only has 

Level 2 financial instruments measured at fair value. 

The Group enters into derivative financial instruments with financial institutions with investment grade credit ratings. Derivatives valued using valuation techniques with 

market observable inputs are mainly interest rate swaps and forward foreign exchange contracts. The most frequently applied valuation techniques include forward 

pricing and swap models, using present value calculations. The models incorporate various inputs including the credit quality of counterparties, foreign exchange spot 

and forward rates, interest rate curves and forward rate curves. 

As at 31 December 2012 and 31 December 2011, the mark-to-market value of a derivative asset position is net of a credit valuation adjustment attributable to derivative 

counterparty default risk. The changes in counterparty credit risk had no material effect on the hedge effectiveness for derivatives designated in hedge relationships and 

other financial instruments recognised at fair value. 

Long-term borrowings are measured in the balance sheet at amortised cost. As the Group’s long-term borrowings are not quoted publicly and as market prices are not 

available their fair values are estimated by discounting future contractual cash flows to net present values at the current market interest rates available to the Group for 

similar financial instruments as at the year-end. At 31 December 2012 and 31 December 2011, the fair value of the Group’s long-term borrowing was not materially 

different from amortised cost. 

17 Deferred taxation 

Accounting policy 

Deferred taxation is accounted for using the balance sheet liability method in respect of temporary differences arising between the carrying amount of assets and 

liabilities in the accounts and the corresponding tax bases used in computation of taxable profit. 

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable temporary differences except in respect of investments in subsidiaries where the Group is able to control the timing 

of the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that this will not reverse in the foreseeable future; on the initial recognition of non-deductible goodwill; and 

on the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction that is not a business combination and that, at the time of the transaction, does not affect the accounting 

or taxable profit. 

Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary difference can be utilised. 

Their carrying amount is reviewed at each balance sheet date on the same basis. 

Deferred tax is measured on an undiscounted basis, and at the tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date that are expected 

to apply in the periods in which the asset or liability is settled. It is recognised in the income statement except when it relates to items credited or charged directly to 

other comprehensive income or equity, in which case the deferred tax is also dealt with in other comprehensive income or equity respectively. 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority, when the Group intends to settle its current tax 

assets and liabilities on a net basis and that authority permits the Group to make a single net payment. 

Deferred tax assets 

Deferred tax liabilities 

Net position at 31 December 

The movement in the year in the Group’s net deferred tax position was as follows: 

At 1 January 

Exchange adjustment 

Movement in income statement – current year 

Movement in income statement – prior years 

Movement in other comprehensive income

Movement in shareholders’ equity 

Arising on acquisition 

Transfers 

At 31 December 

2012  

$ million 

164 

(61) 

103 

2012  

$ million 

157 

– 

(85) 

(2) 

20 

– 

13 

– 

103 

2011 

$ million

223 

(66)

157 

2011 

$ million

155

(1)

(15)

3

24

(2)

–

(7)

157

Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Group accounts continued 

16 Financial instruments and risk management continued 

16.4 Currency and interest rate profile of interest bearing liabilities and assets 

Short-term debtors and creditors are excluded from the following disclosures. 

Currency and Interest Rate Profile of Interest Bearing Liabilities: 

Gross 

borrowings  

$ million 

Currency 

swaps

$ million

Total 

liabilities

$ million

Floating 

Fixed 

rate liabilities

rate liabilities 

$ million

$ million 

Fixed rate liabilities

Weighted 

average 

Interest 

rate 

% 

Weighted 

average time

for which

rate is fixed

Years

At 31 December 2012: 

US Dollar 

Euro 

Other 

US Dollar 

Swiss Franc 

Euro 

Other 

Total interest bearing liabilities 

At 31 December 2011: 

Total interest bearing liabilities 

432 

7 

29 

468 

85 

35 

126 

76 

322 

494

83

64

641

143

35

127

129

434

478

83

64

625

126

35

126

129

416

16 

– 

– 

16 

17 

– 

1 

– 

18 

7.1 

– 

– 

7.1 

3.0 

5.0 

– 

At 31 December 2012, $16m (2011 – $18m) of fixed rate liabilities relate to finance leases. In 2012, the Group also had liabilities due for deferred acquisition 

consideration (denominated in US Dollars, Euro and Yen) totalling $8m (2011 – $11m, 2010 – $nil) on which no interest was payable (see Note 14). There are no other 

significant interest bearing financial liabilities. 

Floating rates on liabilities are typically based on the one or three-month LIBOR interest rate relevant to the currency concerned. The weighted average interest rate on 

floating rate borrowings as at 31 December 2012 was 1% (2011 – 2%). 

Currency and Interest Rate Profile of Interest Bearing Assets: 

Cash

and bank

$ million

Currency

swaps

$ million

Total assets 

$ million 

Floating

rate assets

$ million

At 31 December 2012: 

US Dollars 

Other 

US Dollars 

Other 

Total interest bearing assets 

At 31 December 2011: 

Total interest bearing assets 

or 31 December 2011. 

113

62

175

56

56

112

172 

181 

353 

112 

184 

296 

Floating rates on assets are typically based on the short-term deposit rates relevant to the currency concerned. There were no fixed rate assets at 31 December 2012 

62

76

35

173

58

–

1

53

112

59

119

178

56

128

184

4

–

–

5

2

2

–

172

181

353

112

184

296

119

16.5 Fair value of financial assets and liabilities 
For cash and cash equivalents, short-term loans and receivables, overdrafts and other short-term liabilities which have a maturity of less than three months the book 
values approximate the fair values because of their short-term nature. 

Forward foreign exchange contracts are recorded at fair value. These are regarded as Level 2 financial instruments measured at fair value. Level 2 financial instruments 
are defined as: Valuation techniques for which all observable inputs have a significant effect on the recorded fair values, either directly or indirectly. The Group only has 
Level 2 financial instruments measured at fair value. 

The Group enters into derivative financial instruments with financial institutions with investment grade credit ratings. Derivatives valued using valuation techniques with 
market observable inputs are mainly interest rate swaps and forward foreign exchange contracts. The most frequently applied valuation techniques include forward 
pricing and swap models, using present value calculations. The models incorporate various inputs including the credit quality of counterparties, foreign exchange spot 
and forward rates, interest rate curves and forward rate curves. 

As at 31 December 2012 and 31 December 2011, the mark-to-market value of a derivative asset position is net of a credit valuation adjustment attributable to derivative 
counterparty default risk. The changes in counterparty credit risk had no material effect on the hedge effectiveness for derivatives designated in hedge relationships and 
other financial instruments recognised at fair value. 

Long-term borrowings are measured in the balance sheet at amortised cost. As the Group’s long-term borrowings are not quoted publicly and as market prices are not 
available their fair values are estimated by discounting future contractual cash flows to net present values at the current market interest rates available to the Group for 
similar financial instruments as at the year-end. At 31 December 2012 and 31 December 2011, the fair value of the Group’s long-term borrowing was not materially 
different from amortised cost. 

17 Deferred taxation 

Accounting policy 

Deferred taxation is accounted for using the balance sheet liability method in respect of temporary differences arising between the carrying amount of assets and 
liabilities in the accounts and the corresponding tax bases used in computation of taxable profit. 

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable temporary differences except in respect of investments in subsidiaries where the Group is able to control the timing 
of the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that this will not reverse in the foreseeable future; on the initial recognition of non-deductible goodwill; and 
on the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction that is not a business combination and that, at the time of the transaction, does not affect the accounting 
or taxable profit. 

Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary difference can be utilised. 
Their carrying amount is reviewed at each balance sheet date on the same basis. 

Deferred tax is measured on an undiscounted basis, and at the tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date that are expected 
to apply in the periods in which the asset or liability is settled. It is recognised in the income statement except when it relates to items credited or charged directly to 
other comprehensive income or equity, in which case the deferred tax is also dealt with in other comprehensive income or equity respectively. 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority, when the Group intends to settle its current tax 
assets and liabilities on a net basis and that authority permits the Group to make a single net payment. 

Deferred tax assets 

Deferred tax liabilities 

Net position at 31 December 

The movement in the year in the Group’s net deferred tax position was as follows: 

At 1 January 

Exchange adjustment 

Movement in income statement – current year 

Movement in income statement – prior years 

Movement in other comprehensive income

Movement in shareholders’ equity 

Arising on acquisition 

Transfers 

At 31 December 

2012  
$ million 

164 

(61) 

103 

2012  
$ million 

157 

– 

(85) 

(2) 

20 

– 

13 

– 

103 

2011 
$ million

223 

(66)

157 

2011 
$ million

155

(1)

(15)

3

24

(2)

–

(7)

157

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120

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

17 Deferred taxation continued 
Movements in the main components of deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:  

18 Provisions and contingencies 

Accounting policy 

Deferred tax assets: 

At 1 January 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Movement in income statement – current year

Movement in income statement – prior years 

Movement in other comprehensive income 

Charge to equity 

Transfers 

At 31 December 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Movement in income statement – current year

Movement in income statement – prior years 

Movement in other comprehensive income 

Charge to equity 

Acquisition 

Transfers 

At 31 December 2012 

Retirement 
benefit 
obligation
$ million

Macro- 
textured  
claim  
$ million 

Other  
$ million 

Total 
$ million

54

–

(7)

–

31

–

1

79

–

(4)

2

17

–

–

(9)

85

52 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

52 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

52 

118 

(2) 

(11) 

(2) 

– 

(1) 

(10) 

92 

1 

(85) 

(4) 

1 

– 

13 

9 

27 

224

(2)

(18)

(2)

31

(1)

(9)

223

1

(89)

(2)

18

–

13

–

164

The Group has unused tax losses of $61m (2011 – $29m) available for offset against future profits. A deferred tax asset has been recognised in respect of $1m (2011 – 
$1m) of such losses. No deferred tax asset has been recognised on the remaining unused tax losses as these are not expected to be realised in the foreseeable future. 

Accelerated tax 
depreciation 
$ million

Intangible  
assets  
$ million 

Other  
$ million 

Total 
$ million

Deferred tax liabilities: 

At 1 January 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Movement in income statement – current year

Movement in income statement – prior years 

Movement in other comprehensive income 

Charge to equity 

Transfers 

At 31 December 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Movement in income statement – current year

Movement in income statement – prior years 

Movement in other comprehensive income 

Charge to equity 

Transfers 

At 31 December 2012 

(25)

1

3

(2)

–

–

(5)

(28)

(1)

2

–

–

–

–

(33) 

– 

5 

– 

– 

– 

1 

(27) 

– 

6 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(11) 

– 

(5) 

7 

(7) 

(1) 

6 

(11) 

– 

(4) 

– 

2 

– 

– 

(69)

1

3

5

(7)

(1)

2

(66)

(1)

4

–

2

–

–

(27)

(21) 

(13) 

(61)

In the normal course of business the Group is involved in numerous legal disputes. Provision is made for loss contingencies when it is deemed probable that an 

adverse outcome will occur and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Where the Group is the plaintiff in pursuing claims against third parties legal and 

associated expenses are charged to the income statement as incurred.  

The recognition of provisions for legal disputes is subject to a significant degree of estimation. In making its estimates management takes into account the advice of 

internal and external legal counsel. Provisions are reviewed regularly and amounts updated where necessary to reflect developments in the disputes. The ultimate 

liability may differ from the amount provided depending on the outcome of court proceedings or settlement negotiations or as new facts emerge. 

A provision for onerous contracts is recognised when the expected benefits to be derived by the Group from a contract are lower than the unavoidable cost of meeting 

its obligations under the contract. For the purposes of calculating any onerous lease provision, the Group has taken the discounted future lease payments, net of 

expected rental income. Before a provision is established, the Group recognises any impairment loss on the assets associated with that contract. 

18.1 Provisions 

At 1 January 2011 

Charge to income statement 

Utilisation/Released 

At 31 December 2011 

Charge to income statement 

Provision arising on acquisition 

Utilisation/Released 

At 31 December 2012 

Provisions – due within one year 

Provisions – due after one year 

At 31 December 2012 

Provisions – due within one year 

Provisions – due after one year 

At 31 December 2011 

Rationalisation 

provisions 

$ million

Legal and other  

provisions  

$ million 

Total

$ million 

14

22

(10)

26

29

–

(30)

25

25

–

25

26

–

26

96 

44 

(43)

97 

21 

13 

(34)

97 

34 

63 

97 

52 

45 

97 

110

66

(53)

123

50

13

(64)

122

59

63

122

78

45

123

The principal provisions within rationalisation provisions relate to the rationalisation of operational sites (mainly severance and legal costs) arising from the legacy earnings 

improvement programme and people costs associated with the structural and process changes announced in August 2011. 

Included within the legal and other provisions are: 

–  $17m (2011 – $17m) relating to the declination of insurance coverage for macrotextured knee revisions (see Note 18.2). 

–  $nil (2011 – $23m) in connection with the previously disclosed investigation by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (‘SEC’) and Department of Justice (‘DOJ’) 

into potential violations of the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in the medical devices industry. On 6 February 2012, Smith & Nephew announced that it had reached 

settlement with the SEC and DOJ in connection with this matter. Smith & Nephew committed to pay approximately $23m in fines and profit disgorgement, maintain 

an enhanced compliance programme, and appoint an independent monitor for at least 18 months to review and report on its compliance programme. 

–  A provision of $13m has been established following the acquisition of Healthpoint Biotherapeutics (see Note 22). 

–  The remaining balance largely represents provisions for various litigation and patent disputes. 

All provisions are expected to be substantially utilised within three years of 31 December 2012 and none are treated as financial instruments. 

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Group accounts continued 

121

17 Deferred taxation continued 

Movements in the main components of deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:  

18 Provisions and contingencies 

Accounting policy 

Movement in income statement – current year

Movement in income statement – prior years 

Movement in other comprehensive income 

Deferred tax assets: 

At 1 January 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Charge to equity 

Transfers 

At 31 December 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Movement in income statement – current year

Movement in income statement – prior years 

Movement in other comprehensive income 

Charge to equity 

Acquisition 

Transfers 

At 31 December 2012 

Deferred tax liabilities: 

At 1 January 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Movement in income statement – current year

Movement in income statement – prior years 

Movement in other comprehensive income 

Charge to equity 

Transfers 

At 31 December 2011 

Exchange adjustment 

Movement in income statement – current year

Movement in income statement – prior years 

Movement in other comprehensive income 

Charge to equity 

Transfers 

At 31 December 2012 

Retirement 

benefit 

obligation

$ million

Macro- 

textured  

claim  

$ million 

Other  

$ million 

Total 

$ million

54

–

(7)

–

31

–

1

79

–

(4)

2

17

–

–

(9)

85

(25)

(2)

1

3

–

–

(5)

(28)

(1)

2

–

–

–

–

52 

52 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

52 

(33) 

(27) 

– 

5 

– 

– 

– 

1 

– 

6 

– 

– 

– 

– 

118 

(2) 

(11) 

(2) 

– 

(1) 

(10) 

92 

1 

(85) 

(4) 

1 

– 

13 

9 

27 

(11) 

– 

(5) 

7 

(7) 

(1) 

6 

(11) 

– 

(4) 

– 

2 

– 

– 

224

(2)

(18)

(2)

31

(1)

(9)

223

1

(89)

(2)

18

13

–

–

164

(69)

1

3

5

(7)

(1)

2

(66)

(1)

4

–

2

–

–

(27)

(21) 

(13) 

(61)

In the normal course of business the Group is involved in numerous legal disputes. Provision is made for loss contingencies when it is deemed probable that an 
adverse outcome will occur and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Where the Group is the plaintiff in pursuing claims against third parties legal and 
associated expenses are charged to the income statement as incurred.  

The recognition of provisions for legal disputes is subject to a significant degree of estimation. In making its estimates management takes into account the advice of 
internal and external legal counsel. Provisions are reviewed regularly and amounts updated where necessary to reflect developments in the disputes. The ultimate 
liability may differ from the amount provided depending on the outcome of court proceedings or settlement negotiations or as new facts emerge. 

A provision for onerous contracts is recognised when the expected benefits to be derived by the Group from a contract are lower than the unavoidable cost of meeting 
its obligations under the contract. For the purposes of calculating any onerous lease provision, the Group has taken the discounted future lease payments, net of 
expected rental income. Before a provision is established, the Group recognises any impairment loss on the assets associated with that contract. 

18.1 Provisions 

At 1 January 2011 

Charge to income statement 

Utilisation/Released 

At 31 December 2011 

Charge to income statement 

Provision arising on acquisition 

Utilisation/Released 

At 31 December 2012 

Provisions – due within one year 

Provisions – due after one year 

At 31 December 2012 

Provisions – due within one year 

Provisions – due after one year 

At 31 December 2011 

Rationalisation 
provisions 
$ million

Legal and other  
provisions  
$ million 

Total
$ million 

14

22

(10)

26

29

–

(30)

25

25

–

25

26

–

26

96 

44 

(43)

97 

21 

13 

(34)

97 

34 

63 

97 

52 

45 

97 

110

66

(53)

123

50

13

(64)

122

59

63

122

78

45

123

The principal provisions within rationalisation provisions relate to the rationalisation of operational sites (mainly severance and legal costs) arising from the legacy earnings 
improvement programme and people costs associated with the structural and process changes announced in August 2011. 

Included within the legal and other provisions are: 

–  $17m (2011 – $17m) relating to the declination of insurance coverage for macrotextured knee revisions (see Note 18.2). 

–  $nil (2011 – $23m) in connection with the previously disclosed investigation by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (‘SEC’) and Department of Justice (‘DOJ’) 
into potential violations of the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in the medical devices industry. On 6 February 2012, Smith & Nephew announced that it had reached 
settlement with the SEC and DOJ in connection with this matter. Smith & Nephew committed to pay approximately $23m in fines and profit disgorgement, maintain 
an enhanced compliance programme, and appoint an independent monitor for at least 18 months to review and report on its compliance programme. 

–  A provision of $13m has been established following the acquisition of Healthpoint Biotherapeutics (see Note 22). 
–  The remaining balance largely represents provisions for various litigation and patent disputes. 

All provisions are expected to be substantially utilised within three years of 31 December 2012 and none are treated as financial instruments. 

The Group has unused tax losses of $61m (2011 – $29m) available for offset against future profits. A deferred tax asset has been recognised in respect of $1m (2011 – 

$1m) of such losses. No deferred tax asset has been recognised on the remaining unused tax losses as these are not expected to be realised in the foreseeable future. 

Accelerated tax 

depreciation 

$ million

Intangible  

assets  

$ million 

Other  

$ million 

Total 

$ million

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122

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

18 Provisions and contingencies continued 

19.2 Principal actuarial assumptions 

18.2 Contingencies 
The Company and its subsidiaries are parties to various legal proceedings, some of which include claims for substantial damages. The outcome of these proceedings 
cannot readily be foreseen, but management believes none of them will result in a material adverse effect on the financial position of the Group. The Group provides for 
outcomes that are deemed to be probable and can be reliably estimated. There is no assurance that losses will not exceed provisions or will not have a significant impact 
on the Group’s results of operations in the period in which they are realised. 

In August 2003, the Group withdrew voluntarily from all markets the macrotextured versions of its OXINIUM femoral knee components. A number of related claims have 
been filed, most of which have been settled. The aggregate cost at 31 December 2012 related to this matter is approximately $214m. The Group has sought recovery 
from its primary and excess insurers for costs of resolving the claims. The primary insurance carrier has paid $60m in full settlement of its policy liability. However, the 
excess carriers have denied coverage, citing defences relating to the wording of the insurance policies and other matters. In December 2004, the Group brought suit 
against them in the US District Court for the Western District of Tennessee, and trial is expected to commence in 2013. An additional $22m was received during 2007 
from a successful settlement with a third party. 

A charge of $154m was recorded in 2004 for anticipated expenses in connection with macrotexture claims. Most of that amount has since been applied to settlements 
of such claims. Management believes that the $17m provision remaining is adequate to cover remaining claims. Given the uncertainty inherent in such matters, there 
can be no assurance on this point. 

The Group is engaged, as both plaintiff and defendant, in litigation with various competitors and others over claims of patent infringement and, in some cases, breach of 
licence agreement. These disputes are being heard in courts in the United States and other jurisdictions and also before agencies that examine patents. Outcomes are 
rarely certain with costs and settlements often significant. 

19 Retirement benefit obligations 

Accounting policy 

The Group’s major pension plans are of the defined benefit type. For these plans, the employer’s portion of past and current service cost is charged to operating profit, 
with the interest cost net of expected return on assets in the plans reported within other finance income/(costs). Actuarial gains or losses are recognised in full directly 
in other comprehensive income such that the balance sheet reflects the plan’s surpluses or deficits as at the balance sheet date. 

The defined benefit obligation is calculated annually by external actuaries using the projected unit credit method. The present value of the defined benefit obligation 
is determined by discounting the estimated future cash flows using interest rates that reference high-quality corporate bonds that are denominated in the currency 
in which the benefits will be paid and have terms to maturity approximating to the terms of the related pension liability. 

A number of key assumptions have to be made in calculating the fair value of the Group’s defined benefit pension plans. These assumptions impact the balance sheet 
assets and liabilities, operating profit and finance income/(costs). The most critical assumptions are the discount rate, the rate of inflation and mortality assumptions to 
be applied to future pension plan liabilities. The most important assumption for the plan assets is the future expected return. In determining these assumptions 
management takes into account the advice of professional external actuaries and benchmarks its assumptions against external data. 

Where defined contribution plans operate, the contributions to these plans are charged to operating profit as they become payable. 

19.1 Retirement benefit (assets)/obligations 
The Group’s retirement benefit obligations comprise: 

Funded Plans: 

UK Plan 

US Plan 

Other Plans (i) 

Unfunded Plans: 

Other Plans (i) 

Retirement Healthcare 

2012  
$ million 

2011 
$ million

(6) 

147 

38 

179 

36 

45 

260 

24 

168 

33 

225

24 

38 

287

(i)  The analysis in this note for ‘Other Plans’ combines both the funded and unfunded retirement benefit obligations. 

The Group sponsors pension plans for its employees in most of the countries in which it has major operating companies. Pension plans are established under the laws of 
the relevant country. Funded plans are funded by the payment of contributions to, and the assets held by, separate trust funds or insurance companies. In those countries 
where there is no Company-sponsored pension plan, state benefits are considered adequate. Employees’ retirement benefits are the subject of regular management 
review. The Group’s major defined benefit pension plans in the UK and US were closed to new employees in 2003 and replaced by defined contribution plans. 

Defined benefit plans provide employees with an entitlement to retirement benefits varying between 1.3% and 66.7% of final salary on attainment of retirement age. 
The level of entitlement is dependent on the years of service of the employee. 

The present value of the defined benefit obligation and the related current service cost are measured using the projected unit method. Under the projected unit method, 
the current service cost will increase as the members of the defined benefit plans approach retirement. The principal actuarial assumptions used by the independent 
qualified actuaries in valuing the major plans in the United Kingdom (‘UK Plan’), the United States (‘US Plan’) and all other plans (‘Other Plans’) and a breakdown of the 
pension costs charged to income are as follows: 

015914_Smith&Nephew_AR12_p89-164.indd   122

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UK Plan: 

Discount rate 

Expected return on plan assets (i) 

Expected rate of salary increases 

Future pension increases 

Inflation (RPI) 

Inflation (CPI) 

US Plan: 

Discount rate 

Expected return on plan assets (i) 

Expected rate of salary increases 

Future pension increases  

Inflation 

Other Plans: 

Discount rate (ii) 

Expected return on plan assets (i) (ii) 

Expected rate of salary increases (ii) 

Future pension increases (ii) 

Inflation (ii) 

Life expectancy of male aged 60 (in years)

Life expectancy of male aged 60 in 20 years’ time (in years) 

Life expectancy of male aged 60 (in years)

Life expectancy of male aged 60 in 20 years’ time (in years) 

Current service cost – employer’s portion

Other finance cost 

Expected return on assets in the plan 

Net defined benefit pension costs 

Net defined contribution pension costs 

Total pension costs charged to profit before taxation 

2012

% per annum

2011 

% per annum 

2010

% per annum

4.5

5.1

3.5

3.0

3.0

2.2

28.7

31.2

4.0

6.8

3.0

–

2.5

22.9

24.6

3.0

4.0

3.0

2.0

1.9

29

63

(60)

32

32

64

4.9  

5.1  

5.1  

3.1  

3.1 

2.1  

28.6  

31.0  

4.6  

7.1  

4.5  

–  

2.5  

22.8  

24.5  

3.9 

4.5 

3.3 

2.2 

1.9  

28  

66  

(59) 

35  

29  

64  

5.5 

5.9 

5.5 

3.5 

3.5

3.0 

28.2 

31.5 

5.6 

7.5 

4.7 

–

2.7 

22.8 

24.7 

4.2

5.1 

3.0 

2.3 

2.1 

26 

64 

(55)

35 

25 

60 

(i)  The assumption for the expected return on plan assets has been determined using a combination of past experience and market expectations. 

(ii)  Other Plans’ actuarial assumptions are presented on a weighted average basis and include all funded and unfunded plans. 

19.3 Pension costs (including retirement healthcare) 

2012

$ million

2011 

$ million 

2010

$ million 

Of the $64m (2011 – $64m, 2010 – $60m) net cost for the year, $61m (2011 – $57m, 2010 – $51m) was charged to operating profit in selling, general and administrative 

expenses. The interest cost and expected return on plan assets are reported as other finance costs. 

The total cost charged to income in respect of the Group’s defined contribution plans represents contributions payable to these plans by the Group at rates specified 

in the rules of the plans. As at 31 December 2012, there were $nil outstanding payments due to be paid over to the plans (2011 – $nil, 2010 – $nil). 

Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
123

2012
% per annum

2011 
% per annum 

2010
% per annum

4.5

5.1

3.5

3.0

3.0

2.2

28.7

31.2

4.0

6.8

3.0

–

2.5

22.9

24.6

3.0

4.0

3.0

2.0

1.9

4.9  

5.1  

5.1  

3.1  

3.1 

2.1  

28.6  

31.0  

4.6  

7.1  

4.5  

–  

2.5  

22.8  

24.5  

3.9 

4.5 

3.3 

2.2 

1.9  

5.5 

5.9 

5.5 

3.5 

3.5

3.0 

28.2 

31.5 

5.6 

7.5 

4.7 

–

2.7 

22.8 

24.7 

4.2

5.1 

3.0 

2.3 

2.1 

19.2 Principal actuarial assumptions 

UK Plan: 

Discount rate 

Expected return on plan assets (i) 

Expected rate of salary increases 

Future pension increases 

Inflation (RPI) 

Inflation (CPI) 

Life expectancy of male aged 60 (in years)

Life expectancy of male aged 60 in 20 years’ time (in years) 

US Plan: 

Discount rate 

Expected return on plan assets (i) 

Expected rate of salary increases 

Future pension increases  

Inflation 

Life expectancy of male aged 60 (in years)

Life expectancy of male aged 60 in 20 years’ time (in years) 

Other Plans: 

Discount rate (ii) 

Expected return on plan assets (i) (ii) 

Expected rate of salary increases (ii) 

Future pension increases (ii) 

Inflation (ii) 

(i)  The assumption for the expected return on plan assets has been determined using a combination of past experience and market expectations. 

(ii)  Other Plans’ actuarial assumptions are presented on a weighted average basis and include all funded and unfunded plans. 

19.3 Pension costs (including retirement healthcare) 

Current service cost – employer’s portion

Other finance cost 

Expected return on assets in the plan 

Net defined benefit pension costs 

Net defined contribution pension costs 

Total pension costs charged to profit before taxation 

2012
$ million

2011 
$ million 

2010
$ million 

29

63

(60)

32

32

64

28  

66  

(59) 

35  

29  

64  

26 

64 

(55)

35 

25 

60 

Of the $64m (2011 – $64m, 2010 – $60m) net cost for the year, $61m (2011 – $57m, 2010 – $51m) was charged to operating profit in selling, general and administrative 
expenses. The interest cost and expected return on plan assets are reported as other finance costs. 

The total cost charged to income in respect of the Group’s defined contribution plans represents contributions payable to these plans by the Group at rates specified 
in the rules of the plans. As at 31 December 2012, there were $nil outstanding payments due to be paid over to the plans (2011 – $nil, 2010 – $nil). 

2012  

$ million 

2011 

$ million

(6) 

147 

38 

179 

36 

45 

260 

24 

168 

33 

225

24 

38 

287

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

18 Provisions and contingencies continued 

18.2 Contingencies 

The Company and its subsidiaries are parties to various legal proceedings, some of which include claims for substantial damages. The outcome of these proceedings 

cannot readily be foreseen, but management believes none of them will result in a material adverse effect on the financial position of the Group. The Group provides for 

outcomes that are deemed to be probable and can be reliably estimated. There is no assurance that losses will not exceed provisions or will not have a significant impact 

on the Group’s results of operations in the period in which they are realised. 

In August 2003, the Group withdrew voluntarily from all markets the macrotextured versions of its OXINIUM femoral knee components. A number of related claims have 

been filed, most of which have been settled. The aggregate cost at 31 December 2012 related to this matter is approximately $214m. The Group has sought recovery 

from its primary and excess insurers for costs of resolving the claims. The primary insurance carrier has paid $60m in full settlement of its policy liability. However, the 

excess carriers have denied coverage, citing defences relating to the wording of the insurance policies and other matters. In December 2004, the Group brought suit 

against them in the US District Court for the Western District of Tennessee, and trial is expected to commence in 2013. An additional $22m was received during 2007 

from a successful settlement with a third party. 

A charge of $154m was recorded in 2004 for anticipated expenses in connection with macrotexture claims. Most of that amount has since been applied to settlements 

of such claims. Management believes that the $17m provision remaining is adequate to cover remaining claims. Given the uncertainty inherent in such matters, there 

can be no assurance on this point. 

The Group is engaged, as both plaintiff and defendant, in litigation with various competitors and others over claims of patent infringement and, in some cases, breach of 

licence agreement. These disputes are being heard in courts in the United States and other jurisdictions and also before agencies that examine patents. Outcomes are 

rarely certain with costs and settlements often significant. 

19 Retirement benefit obligations 

Accounting policy 

The Group’s major pension plans are of the defined benefit type. For these plans, the employer’s portion of past and current service cost is charged to operating profit, 

with the interest cost net of expected return on assets in the plans reported within other finance income/(costs). Actuarial gains or losses are recognised in full directly 

in other comprehensive income such that the balance sheet reflects the plan’s surpluses or deficits as at the balance sheet date. 

The defined benefit obligation is calculated annually by external actuaries using the projected unit credit method. The present value of the defined benefit obligation 

is determined by discounting the estimated future cash flows using interest rates that reference high-quality corporate bonds that are denominated in the currency 

in which the benefits will be paid and have terms to maturity approximating to the terms of the related pension liability. 

A number of key assumptions have to be made in calculating the fair value of the Group’s defined benefit pension plans. These assumptions impact the balance sheet 

assets and liabilities, operating profit and finance income/(costs). The most critical assumptions are the discount rate, the rate of inflation and mortality assumptions to 

be applied to future pension plan liabilities. The most important assumption for the plan assets is the future expected return. In determining these assumptions 

management takes into account the advice of professional external actuaries and benchmarks its assumptions against external data. 

Where defined contribution plans operate, the contributions to these plans are charged to operating profit as they become payable. 

19.1 Retirement benefit (assets)/obligations 

The Group’s retirement benefit obligations comprise: 

Funded Plans: 

UK Plan 

US Plan 

Other Plans (i) 

Unfunded Plans: 

Other Plans (i) 

Retirement Healthcare 

(i)  The analysis in this note for ‘Other Plans’ combines both the funded and unfunded retirement benefit obligations. 

The Group sponsors pension plans for its employees in most of the countries in which it has major operating companies. Pension plans are established under the laws of 

the relevant country. Funded plans are funded by the payment of contributions to, and the assets held by, separate trust funds or insurance companies. In those countries 

where there is no Company-sponsored pension plan, state benefits are considered adequate. Employees’ retirement benefits are the subject of regular management 

review. The Group’s major defined benefit pension plans in the UK and US were closed to new employees in 2003 and replaced by defined contribution plans. 

Defined benefit plans provide employees with an entitlement to retirement benefits varying between 1.3% and 66.7% of final salary on attainment of retirement age. 

The level of entitlement is dependent on the years of service of the employee. 

The present value of the defined benefit obligation and the related current service cost are measured using the projected unit method. Under the projected unit method, 

the current service cost will increase as the members of the defined benefit plans approach retirement. The principal actuarial assumptions used by the independent 

qualified actuaries in valuing the major plans in the United Kingdom (‘UK Plan’), the United States (‘US Plan’) and all other plans (‘Other Plans’) and a breakdown of the 

pension costs charged to income are as follows: 

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overviewstrategy and performancemarketplace and business reviewsustainability reviewfinancial review  and principal riskscorporate  governanceaccounts and  other informationsection 7 accounts and other information 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
124

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

19 Retirement benefit obligations continued  

19.4 Actuarial (losses)/gains recognised in Group Statement of Comprehensive Income 

A reconciliation of the fair value of plan assets is shown in the following tables: 

Experience gains in pension scheme assets 

Experience gains on scheme liabilities 

Losses due to changes in assumptions underlying scheme liabilities 

2012
$ million

33

18

(64)

(13)

2011 
$ million 

9  

–  

(79) 

(70) 

2010
$ million 

34 

21 

(29)

26 

The actuarial losses of $13m (2011 – loss of $70m, 2010 – gain of $26m) were reported in the statement of other comprehensive income making the cumulative charge 
to date $311m (2011 – $298m, 2010 – $228m). 

The contributions made in the year in respect of defined benefit plans were: UK Plan $39m (2011 – $37m, 2010 – $37m); US Plan $27m (2011 – $30m, 2010 – $20m); 
and Other Plans $7m (2011 – $9m, 2010 – $8m). The agreed contributions for 2013 in respect of the Group’s defined benefit plans are: $39m for the UK Plan (including 
$30m of supplementary payments), $17m for the US Plan and $6m for other defined benefit plans. 

19.5 Scheme assets 
The amount included in the balance sheet arising from the Group’s obligations in respect of its defined benefit retirement plans and the expected rates of return on 
investments were: 

31 December 2012 

Equities 

Bonds 

Other 

Market value of assets 

Present value of defined benefit obligations 

Surplus/(Deficit): non-current asset/(liability) 
recognised in the balance sheet 

31 December 2011 

Equities 

Bonds 

Other 

Market value of assets 

Present value of defined benefit obligations 

Deficit: non-current liability recognised in  
the balance sheet 

Rate of
Return %

UK Plan

Value
$ million

Rate of
Return %

US Plan  

Value
$ million

Rate of 
Return % 

Other Plans

Value
$ million

7.2 

3.2 

6.7 

7.2 

3.2 

6.7 

253

372

119

744

(738)

6

248 

353 

55 

656 

(680)

(24)

8.7

2.5

2.3

8.8 

3.0 

2.3 

246  

110  

3  

359  

(506)  

(147)  

196   

93   

9   

298   

(466)  

(168)  

7.5 

3.2 

4.2 

8.2 

3.3  

4.5 

7

43

74

124

(198)

(74)

6 

42 

61 

109 

(166)

(57)

The following tables set out the pension plan asset allocations in the funded UK, US and Other Plans as at 31 December for the last two years: 

Asset Category: 

Equity securities 

Debt securities 

Other 

Total 

2012
%

34

50

16

100

UK Plan

2011
%

38 

54 

8 

100

2012
%

69

31

–

100

US Plan  

2011
%

66   

31   

3   

100   

Other Plans

2011
%

6 

38 

56 

100 

2012 
% 

6 

35 

59 

100 

015914_Smith&Nephew_AR12_p89-164.indd   124

25/02/2013   11:45

UK Plan

$ million

US Plan

$ million

272

Other Plans 

$ million 

100 

Retirement 

 Healthcare 

$ million 

19.6 Present value of defined benefit obligations 

A reconciliation of the present value of defined benefit obligations is shown in the following tables: 

UK Plan

$ million

US Plan

$ million

382

Other Plans 

$ million 

158 

Retirement 

 Healthcare 

$ million 

Fair value of plan assets at 1 January 2011

Expected return on plan assets 

Experience gains/(losses) on plan assets

Plan participant contributions 

Company contributions 

Benefits paid 

Exchange adjustment 

Fair value of plan assets at 31 December 2011 

Expected return on plan assets 

Experience gains on plan assets 

Plan participant contributions 

Company contributions 

Benefits paid 

Exchange adjustment 

Fair value of plan assets at 31 December 2012 

Present value of defined benefit obligations at 1 January 2011 

Current service cost 

Other finance cost 

Experience losses/(gains) on plan liabilities

Present value of defined benefit obligations  

Losses on change of assumptions 

Plan participant contributions 

Benefits paid 

Benefits paid directly by employer 

Exchange adjustment 

at 31 December 2011 

Current service cost 

Other finance cost 

Experience gains on plan liabilities 

Losses on change of assumptions 

Plan participant contributions 

Benefits paid 

Benefits paid directly by employer 

Exchange adjustment 

Present value of defined benefit obligations at  

31 December 2012 

595

35

20

1

37

(23)

(9)

656

33

3

1

39

(23)

35

744

654

10

36

6

6

1

(23)

(1)

(9)

680

8

34

–

2

1

(23)

–

36

738

19

(12)

–

30

(11)

–

298

22

24

–

27

(12)

–

359

9

21

(1)

66

(11)

–

–

–

11

21

(9)

29

(12)

–

–

–

466

5 

1 

3 

9 

(6) 

(3) 

109 

5 

6 

3 

7 

3 

  (9) 

124 

(3) 

9 

7 

2 

3 

(6) 

– 

(4) 

166 

10 

6 

(9) 

28 

3 

(9) 

(1) 

4 

Total

$ million

967

59

1,063

9

4

76

(40)

(12)

60

33

4

7

3

(4

4)

38

1,227

Total

$ million

1,229

28

66

–

79

4

(40)

(3)

(13)

29

63

(18)

64

4

(44)

(1)

40

1,350

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

35 

(2) 

– 

2 

5 

– 

– 

(2) 

– 

38 

– 

2 

– 

5 

– 

– 

– 

– 

506

198 

45 

1,487

Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Group accounts continued 

19 Retirement benefit obligations continued  

19.4 Actuarial (losses)/gains recognised in Group Statement of Comprehensive Income 

Experience gains in pension scheme assets 

Experience gains on scheme liabilities 

Losses due to changes in assumptions underlying scheme liabilities 

2012

$ million

33

18

(64)

(13)

2011 

$ million 

9  

–  

(79) 

(70) 

2010

$ million 

34 

21 

(29)

26 

The actuarial losses of $13m (2011 – loss of $70m, 2010 – gain of $26m) were reported in the statement of other comprehensive income making the cumulative charge 

to date $311m (2011 – $298m, 2010 – $228m). 

The contributions made in the year in respect of defined benefit plans were: UK Plan $39m (2011 – $37m, 2010 – $37m); US Plan $27m (2011 – $30m, 2010 – $20m); 

and Other Plans $7m (2011 – $9m, 2010 – $8m). The agreed contributions for 2013 in respect of the Group’s defined benefit plans are: $39m for the UK Plan (including 

$30m of supplementary payments), $17m for the US Plan and $6m for other defined benefit plans. 

The amount included in the balance sheet arising from the Group’s obligations in respect of its defined benefit retirement plans and the expected rates of return on 

19.5 Scheme assets 

investments were: 

31 December 2012 

Equities 

Bonds 

Other 

Market value of assets 

Present value of defined benefit obligations 

Surplus/(Deficit): non-current asset/(liability) 

recognised in the balance sheet 

31 December 2011 

Equities 

Bonds 

Other 

Market value of assets 

Present value of defined benefit obligations 

Deficit: non-current liability recognised in  

the balance sheet 

Asset Category: 

Equity securities 

Debt securities 

Other 

Total 

Rate of

Return %

UK Plan

Value

$ million

Rate of

Return %

US Plan  

Value

$ million

Rate of 

Return % 

Other Plans

Value

$ million

7.2 

3.2 

6.7 

7.2 

3.2 

6.7 

2012

%

34

50

16

100

253

372

119

744

(738)

6

248 

353 

55 

656 

(680)

(24)

UK Plan

2011

%

38 

54 

8 

100

8.7

2.5

2.3

8.8 

3.0 

2.3 

2012

%

69

31

–

100

246  

110  

3  

359  

(506)  

(147)  

196   

93   

9   

298   

(466)  

(168)  

US Plan  

2011

%

66   

31   

3   

100   

7.5 

3.2 

4.2 

8.2 

3.3  

4.5 

2012 

% 

6 

35 

59 

100 

7

43

74

124

(198)

(74)

6 

42 

61 

109 

(166)

(57)

2011

%

6 

38 

56 

100 

Other Plans

The following tables set out the pension plan asset allocations in the funded UK, US and Other Plans as at 31 December for the last two years: 

A reconciliation of the fair value of plan assets is shown in the following tables: 

Fair value of plan assets at 1 January 2011

Expected return on plan assets 

Experience gains/(losses) on plan assets

Plan participant contributions 

Company contributions 

Benefits paid 

Exchange adjustment 

Fair value of plan assets at 31 December 2011 

Expected return on plan assets 

Experience gains on plan assets 

Plan participant contributions 

Company contributions 

Benefits paid 

Exchange adjustment 

Fair value of plan assets at 31 December 2012 

UK Plan
$ million

595

35

20

1

37

(23)

(9)

656

33

3

1

39

(23)

35

744

US Plan
$ million

272

Other Plans 
$ million 

100 

19

(12)

–

30

(11)

–

298

22

24

–

27

(12)

–

359

5 

1 

3 

9 

(6) 

(3) 

109 

5 

6 

3 

7 

  (9) 

3 

124 

19.6 Present value of defined benefit obligations 
A reconciliation of the present value of defined benefit obligations is shown in the following tables: 

Present value of defined benefit obligations at 1 January 2011 

Current service cost 

Other finance cost 

Experience losses/(gains) on plan liabilities

Losses on change of assumptions 

Plan participant contributions 

Benefits paid 

Benefits paid directly by employer 

Exchange adjustment 

Present value of defined benefit obligations  
at 31 December 2011 

Current service cost 

Other finance cost 

Experience gains on plan liabilities 

Losses on change of assumptions 

Plan participant contributions 

Benefits paid 

Benefits paid directly by employer 

Exchange adjustment 

Present value of defined benefit obligations at  
31 December 2012 

UK Plan
$ million

654

10

36

6

6

1

(23)

(1)

(9)

680

8

34

–

2

1

(23)

–

36

738

US Plan
$ million

382

Other Plans 
$ million 

158 

9 

7 

(3) 

2 

3 

(6) 

– 

(4) 

166 

10 

6 

(9) 

28 

3 

(9) 

(1) 

4 

9

21

(1)

66

–

(11)

–

–

466

11

21

(9)

29

–

(12)

–

–

506

125

Retirement 
 Healthcare 
$ million 

Total
$ million

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

Retirement 
 Healthcare 
$ million 

35 

– 

2 

(2) 

5 

– 

– 

(2) 

– 

38 

– 

2 

– 

5 

– 

– 

– 

– 

967

59

9

4

76

(40)

(12)

1,063

60

33

4

3
7

(4

4)

38

1,227

Total
$ million

1,229

28

66

–

79

4

(40)

(3)

(13)

1,350

29

63

(18)

64

4

(44)

(1)

40

198 

45 

1,487

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overviewstrategy and performancemarketplace and business reviewsustainability reviewfinancial review  and principal riskscorporate  governanceaccounts and  other informationsection 7 accounts and other information 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
126

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

19 Retirement benefit obligations continued  

19.7 History of experience adjustments 
The history of experience adjustments is as follows: 

Present value  
of Defined 
benefit 
obligations 
$ million 

Experience (losses)/gains 
on plan liabilities 

Experience gains/(losses)
on plan assets

Fair value of 
plan assets
$ million

Surplus/
(Deficit) in
plan
$ million

Amount –
gain/(loss)
$ million

Percentage 
of plan 
 liabilities 
% 

Amount – 
 gain/(loss) 
$ million 

Percentage
 of plan
 assets
%

(738) 

(506) 

(198) 

(680) 

(466) 

(166) 

(654) 

(382) 

(158) 

(668) 

(343) 

(137) 

(516) 

(337) 

(141) 

744

359

124

656 

298 

109 

595 

272 

100 

534 

234 

87 

416 

180 

76 

6

(147)

(74)

(24)

(168)

(57)

(59)

(110)

(58)

(134)

(109)

(50)

(100)

(157)

(65)

–

9

9

(6) 

1

3 

21 

(2)

2 

10 

–

7 

1 

(5)

5 

–   

2   

5   

1   

–    

2   

3   

–   

1    

2   

–   

5   

–    

1    

4    

3 

24 

6 

20  

(12) 

1  

26  

11  

(3) 

36  

34  

1  

(126) 

(100) 

(10) 

–

7

6

3 

4 

1 

4 

4 

3 

7 

15 

1 

30 

56 

13 

At 31 December 2012: 

UK Plan 

US Plan 

Other Plans 

At 31 December 2011: 

UK Plan 

US Plan 

Other Plans 

At 31 December 2010: 

UK Plan 

US Plan 

Other Plans 

At 31 December 2009: 

UK Plan 

US Plan 

Other Plans 

At 31 December 2008: 

UK Plan 

US Plan 

Other Plans 

The Group recharges the UK pension plan with the costs of administration and independent advisers. The amount recharged in the year was $2m (2011 – $2m, 2010 – 
$2m). The amount receivable at 31 December 2012 was $nil (2011 – $nil, 2010 – $nil). 

The Group determines the amount of capital taking into account changes in business risks and future cash requirements. The Group reviews its capital structure 

on an ongoing basis and uses share buy-backs, dividends and the issue of new shares to adjust the retained capital. 

19.8 Retirement healthcare 
The cost of providing healthcare benefits after retirement is determined by independent actuaries. The principal actuarial assumptions in determining the cost of providing 
healthcare benefits are those in the UK and the US and are as follows: 

% per annum 

Discount rate 

Medical cost inflation 

2012 

UK 

4.5 

7.0 

US

4.0

7.5

2011 

UK

4.9 

7.0 

US

4.6 

8.0 

2010 

UK 

5.5  

7.0  

US

5.6 

8.0 

A 1 percentage point change in the rate of medical cost inflation would not affect the accumulated retirement benefit obligations, or the aggregate of the current service 
and interest costs, of the UK or US plans in 2012 by more than $3m (2011 – more than $2m, 2010 – more than $2m). 

For the US the retirement healthcare cost trend for 2013 is expected to be 3.5% above the discount rate. Thereafter the healthcare cost trend rate is assumed to decrease 
each year by 0.5% to an ultimate rate of 5%. For the UK it will remain flat at 7%. 

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20 Equity 

20.1 Share capital 

Allotted, issued and fully paid 

Authorised 

At 31 December 2010 

At 31 December 2011 

At 31 December 2012 

At 1 January 2010 

Share options 

At 31 December 2010 

Share options 

At 31 December 2011 

Share options 

At 31 December 2012 

Ordinary Shares (20¢)

Deferred Shares (£1.00) 

Thousand

$ million

Thousand 

$ million 

Total 

$ million

1,223,591

1,223,591

1,223,591

951,021

1,816

952,837

1,991

954,828

8,752

963,580

245

245

245

190

191

1

–

2

191

193

50 

50 

50 

50 

– 

50 

– 

50 

– 

50 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

245

245

245

190

191

1

–

2

191

193

The deferred shares were issued in 2006 in order to comply with English Company law. They are not listed on any stock exchange and have extremely limited rights 

and effectively have no value. These rights are summarised as follows: 

–  The holder shall not be entitled to participate in the profits of the Company; 

–  The holder shall not have any right to participate in any distribution of the Company’s assets on a winding up or other distribution except that after the return of the 

nominal amount paid up on each share in the capital of the Company of any class other than the Deferred Shares and the distribution of a further $1,000 in respect 

of each such share there shall be distributed to a holder of a Deferred Share (for each Deferred Share held by him) an amount equal to the nominal value of the 

Deferred Share; 

–  The holder shall not be entitled to receive notice, attend, speak or vote at any general meeting of the Company; and 

–  The Company may create, allot and issue further shares or reduce or repay the whole or any part of its share capital or other capital reserves without obtaining 

the consent of the holders of the Deferred Shares. 

The Group’s objectives when managing capital are to ensure the Group has adequate funds to continue as a going concern and sufficient flexibility within the capital 

structure to fund the ongoing growth of the business and to take advantage of business development opportunities including acquisitions. 

The Group considers the capital that it manages to be as follows: 

Share capital 

Share premium 

Treasury shares 

Retained earnings and other reserves 

2012

$ million

193

488

(735)

3,938

3,884

2011 

$ million 

191 

413 

(766) 

3,349 

3,187 

2010

$ million 

191

396

(778)

2,964

2,773

Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Group accounts continued 

19 Retirement benefit obligations continued  

19.7 History of experience adjustments 

The history of experience adjustments is as follows: 

Present value  

of Defined 

benefit 

obligations 

$ million 

Fair value of 

plan assets

$ million

Surplus/

(Deficit) in

plan

$ million

Amount –

gain/(loss)

$ million

Percentage 

of plan 

 liabilities 

% 

Amount – 

 gain/(loss) 

$ million 

Percentage

 of plan

 assets

%

Experience (losses)/gains 

Experience gains/(losses)

on plan liabilities 

on plan assets

(738) 

(506) 

(198) 

(680) 

(466) 

(166) 

(654) 

(382) 

(158) 

(668) 

(343) 

(137) 

(516) 

(337) 

(141) 

744

359

124

656 

298 

109 

595 

272 

100 

534 

234 

87 

416 

180 

76 

6

(147)

(74)

(24)

(168)

(57)

(59)

(110)

(58)

(134)

(109)

(50)

(100)

(157)

(65)

–

9

9

(6) 

1

3 

21 

(2)

2 

10 

–

7 

1 

(5)

5 

–   

2   

5   

1   

–    

2   

3   

–   

1    

2   

–   

5   

–    

1    

4    

2012 

UK 

4.5 

7.0 

US

4.0

7.5

2011 

UK

4.9 

7.0 

US

4.6 

8.0 

3 

24 

6 

20  

(12) 

1  

26  

11  

(3) 

36  

34  

1  

(126) 

(100) 

(10) 

2010 

UK 

5.5  

7.0  

–

7

6

3 

4 

1 

4 

4 

3 

7 

15 

1 

30 

56 

13 

US

5.6 

8.0 

At 31 December 2012: 

At 31 December 2011: 

UK Plan 

US Plan 

Other Plans 

UK Plan 

US Plan 

Other Plans 

UK Plan 

US Plan 

Other Plans 

UK Plan 

US Plan 

Other Plans 

UK Plan 

US Plan 

Other Plans 

At 31 December 2010: 

At 31 December 2009: 

At 31 December 2008: 

% per annum 

Discount rate 

Medical cost inflation 

19.8 Retirement healthcare 

The cost of providing healthcare benefits after retirement is determined by independent actuaries. The principal actuarial assumptions in determining the cost of providing 

healthcare benefits are those in the UK and the US and are as follows: 

A 1 percentage point change in the rate of medical cost inflation would not affect the accumulated retirement benefit obligations, or the aggregate of the current service 

and interest costs, of the UK or US plans in 2012 by more than $3m (2011 – more than $2m, 2010 – more than $2m). 

For the US the retirement healthcare cost trend for 2013 is expected to be 3.5% above the discount rate. Thereafter the healthcare cost trend rate is assumed to decrease 

each year by 0.5% to an ultimate rate of 5%. For the UK it will remain flat at 7%. 

127

20 Equity 

20.1 Share capital 

Authorised 

At 31 December 2010 

At 31 December 2011 

At 31 December 2012 

Allotted, issued and fully paid 

At 1 January 2010 

Share options 

At 31 December 2010 

Share options 

At 31 December 2011 

Share options 

At 31 December 2012 

Ordinary Shares (20¢)

Deferred Shares (£1.00) 

Thousand

$ million

Thousand 

$ million 

Total 
$ million

1,223,591

1,223,591

1,223,591

951,021

1,816

952,837

1,991

954,828

8,752

963,580

245

245

245

190

1

191

–

191

2

193

50 

50 

50 

50 

– 

50 

– 

50 

– 

50 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

245

245

245

190

1

191

–

191

2

193

The deferred shares were issued in 2006 in order to comply with English Company law. They are not listed on any stock exchange and have extremely limited rights 
and effectively have no value. These rights are summarised as follows: 

–  The holder shall not be entitled to participate in the profits of the Company; 
–  The holder shall not have any right to participate in any distribution of the Company’s assets on a winding up or other distribution except that after the return of the 

nominal amount paid up on each share in the capital of the Company of any class other than the Deferred Shares and the distribution of a further $1,000 in respect 
of each such share there shall be distributed to a holder of a Deferred Share (for each Deferred Share held by him) an amount equal to the nominal value of the 
Deferred Share; 

–  The holder shall not be entitled to receive notice, attend, speak or vote at any general meeting of the Company; and 

–  The Company may create, allot and issue further shares or reduce or repay the whole or any part of its share capital or other capital reserves without obtaining 

the consent of the holders of the Deferred Shares. 

The Group’s objectives when managing capital are to ensure the Group has adequate funds to continue as a going concern and sufficient flexibility within the capital 
structure to fund the ongoing growth of the business and to take advantage of business development opportunities including acquisitions. 

The Group recharges the UK pension plan with the costs of administration and independent advisers. The amount recharged in the year was $2m (2011 – $2m, 2010 – 

$2m). The amount receivable at 31 December 2012 was $nil (2011 – $nil, 2010 – $nil). 

The Group determines the amount of capital taking into account changes in business risks and future cash requirements. The Group reviews its capital structure 
on an ongoing basis and uses share buy-backs, dividends and the issue of new shares to adjust the retained capital. 

The Group considers the capital that it manages to be as follows: 

Share capital 

Share premium 

Treasury shares 

Retained earnings and other reserves 

2012
$ million

193

488

(735)

3,938

3,884

2011 
$ million 

191 

413 

(766) 

3,349 

3,187 

2010
$ million 

191

396

(778)

2,964

2,773

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128

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

20 Equity continued 

20.2 Treasury shares 
Treasury shares represents the holding of the Company’s own shares in respect of the Smith & Nephew Employee’s Share Trust and shares bought back as part of the 
share buy-back programme, which was suspended in 2008. 

The Smith & Nephew 2004 Employees’ Share Trust (‘Trust’) was established to hold shares relating to the long-term incentive plans referred to in the ‘Directors’ 
Remuneration Report’. The Trust is administered by an independent professional trust company resident in Jersey and is funded by a loan from the Company. The cost 
of the Trust is charged to the income statement as it accrues. A partial dividend waiver is in place in respect of those shares held under the long-term incentive plans. 
The trust only accepts dividends in respect of nil-cost options and deferred bonus plan shares. The waiver represents less than 1% of the total dividends paid. 

The movements in Treasury shares and the Employees’ Share Trust are as follows: 

At 1 January 2011 

Shares purchased 

Shares transferred from treasury 

Shares transferred to group beneficiaries 

At 31 December 2011 

Shares transferred from treasury 

Shares transferred to group beneficiaries 

At 31 December 2012 

At 1 January 2011 

Shares purchased 

Shares transferred from treasury 

Shares transferred to group beneficiaries 

At 31 December 2011 

Shares transferred from treasury 

Shares transferred to group beneficiaries 

At 31 December 2012 

20.3 Dividends 

The following dividends were declared and paid in the year: 

Ordinary final of 10.80¢ for 2011 (2010 – 9.82¢, 2009 – 8.93¢)  
paid 9 May 2012 

Ordinary interim of 9.90¢ for 2012 (2011 – 6.60¢, 2010 – 6.00¢)  
paid 30 October 2012 

Treasury
$ million

Employees’ 
Share Trust 
$ million 

769

–

(14)

(5)

750

(10)

(10)

730

9 

6 

14 

(13) 

16 

10 

(21) 

5 

Total
$ million 

778

6

–

(18)

766

–

(31)

735

No of shares
million

No of shares 
million 

No of shares
million

62.7

–

(1.1)

(0.4)

61.2

(0.9)

(0.8)

59.5

0.8 

0.6 

1.1 

(1.1) 

1.4 

0.9 

(1.8) 

0.5 

63.5

0.6

–

(1.5)

62.6

–

(2.6)

60.0

2012
$ million

2011 
$ million 

2010
$ million 

97

89

186

88 

58 

146 

79

53

132

A final dividend for 2012 of 16.20 US cents per Ordinary Share was proposed by the Board on 6 February 2013 and will be paid, subject to shareholder approval, 
on 8 May 2013 to shareholders on the Register of Members on 19 April 2013. The estimated amount of this dividend on 19 February 2013 is $147m. 

In the Group Cash Flow Statement, cash and cash equivalents includes cash in hand, deposits held with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original 

maturities of three months or less and bank overdrafts. In the Group Balance Sheet, bank overdrafts are shown within bank overdrafts and loans under current liabilities.

21 Cash Flow Statement 

Accounting policy 

Analysis of net debt 

At 1 January 2010 

Net cash flow 

Exchange adjustment 

At 31 December 2010 

Net cash flow 

Other non-cash changes 

Exchange adjustment 

At 31 December 2011 

Net cash flow 

Exchange adjustment 

At 31 December 2012 

Net cash flow from cash net of overdrafts

Settlement of currency swaps 

Net cash flow from borrowings 

Change in net debt from net cash flow 

Exchange adjustment 

Change in net debt in the year 

Opening net debt 

Closing net debt 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Cash at bank and in hand 

Bank overdrafts 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Cash

$ million

Overdrafts

$ million

Due within

 one year

$ million

Due after 

one year 

$ million 

(1,090) 

Net currency

swaps

$ million

Borrowings

Total

$ million

192

9

6

207

(21)

–

(2)

184

(10)

4

178

(18)

(12)

(12)

6

–

–

1

(23)

12

–

(11)

437 

11 

(642) 

140 

517 

(31) 

(16) 

(414) 

– 

(430) 

(3)

(1)

–

3

–

1

–

–

1

1

2

(27)

(17)

(1)

(45)

252

(517)

27

(283)

256

–

(27)

2

1

5

(158)

(155)

(150)

(138)

(288)

2012

$ million

178

(11)

167

(943)

438

13

(492)

360

–

(6)

(138)

(155)

5

(288)

15

3

420

438

13

451

(943)

(492)

2010

$ million 

207

(12)

195

(33) 

1 

392 

360 

(6) 

354 

(492) 

(138) 

2011 

$ million 

184 

(23) 

161 

Reconciliation of net cash flow to movement in net debt 

2012

$ million

2011 

$ million 

2010

$ million 

For the purposes of the Group Cash Flow Statement cash and cash equivalents at 31 December comprise cash at bank and in hand net of bank overdrafts. 

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Group accounts continued 

20 Equity continued 

20.2 Treasury shares 

Treasury shares represents the holding of the Company’s own shares in respect of the Smith & Nephew Employee’s Share Trust and shares bought back as part of the 

share buy-back programme, which was suspended in 2008. 

The Smith & Nephew 2004 Employees’ Share Trust (‘Trust’) was established to hold shares relating to the long-term incentive plans referred to in the ‘Directors’ 

Remuneration Report’. The Trust is administered by an independent professional trust company resident in Jersey and is funded by a loan from the Company. The cost 

of the Trust is charged to the income statement as it accrues. A partial dividend waiver is in place in respect of those shares held under the long-term incentive plans. 

The trust only accepts dividends in respect of nil-cost options and deferred bonus plan shares. The waiver represents less than 1% of the total dividends paid. 

The movements in Treasury shares and the Employees’ Share Trust are as follows: 

Treasury

$ million

Employees’ 

Share Trust 

$ million 

Total

$ million 

At 1 January 2011 

Shares purchased 

Shares transferred from treasury 

Shares transferred to group beneficiaries 

At 31 December 2011 

Shares transferred from treasury 

Shares transferred to group beneficiaries 

At 31 December 2012 

At 1 January 2011 

Shares purchased 

Shares transferred from treasury 

Shares transferred to group beneficiaries 

At 31 December 2011 

Shares transferred from treasury 

Shares transferred to group beneficiaries 

At 31 December 2012 

20.3 Dividends 

No of shares

million

62.7

No of shares 

million 

No of shares

million

769

–

(14)

(5)

750

(10)

(10)

730

–

(1.1)

(0.4)

61.2

(0.9)

(0.8)

59.5

97

89

186

9 

6 

14 

(13) 

16 

10 

(21) 

5 

0.8 

0.6 

1.1 

(1.1) 

1.4 

0.9 

(1.8) 

0.5 

88 

58 

146 

778

6

–

(18)

766

–

(31)

735

63.5

0.6

–

(1.5)

62.6

–

(2.6)

60.0

79

53

132

The following dividends were declared and paid in the year: 

Ordinary final of 10.80¢ for 2011 (2010 – 9.82¢, 2009 – 8.93¢)  

paid 9 May 2012 

paid 30 October 2012 

Ordinary interim of 9.90¢ for 2012 (2011 – 6.60¢, 2010 – 6.00¢)  

2012

$ million

2011 

$ million 

2010

$ million 

129

21 Cash Flow Statement 

Accounting policy 

In the Group Cash Flow Statement, cash and cash equivalents includes cash in hand, deposits held with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original 
maturities of three months or less and bank overdrafts. In the Group Balance Sheet, bank overdrafts are shown within bank overdrafts and loans under current liabilities.

Analysis of net debt 

At 1 January 2010 

Net cash flow 

Exchange adjustment 

At 31 December 2010 

Net cash flow 

Other non-cash changes 

Exchange adjustment 

At 31 December 2011 

Net cash flow 

Exchange adjustment 

At 31 December 2012 

Cash
$ million

Overdrafts
$ million

Due within
 one year
$ million

192

9

6

207

(21)

–

(2)

184

(10)

4

178

(18)

6

–

(12)

(12)

–

1

(23)

12

–

(11)

(27)

(17)

(1)

(45)

252

(517)

27

(283)

256

–

(27)

Due after 
one year 
$ million 

(1,090) 

437 

11 

(642) 

140 

517 

(31) 

(16) 

(414) 

– 

(430) 

Net currency
swaps
$ million

Borrowings

Total
$ million

–

3

(3)

–

1

–

(1)

–

1

1

2

(943)

438

13

(492)

360

–

(6)

(138)

(155)

5

(288)

Reconciliation of net cash flow to movement in net debt 

2012
$ million

2011 
$ million 

2010
$ million 

Net cash flow from cash net of overdrafts

Settlement of currency swaps 

Net cash flow from borrowings 

Change in net debt from net cash flow 

Exchange adjustment 

Change in net debt in the year 

Opening net debt 

Closing net debt 

2

1

(158)

(155)

5

(150)

(138)

(288)

(33) 

1 

392 

360 

(6) 

354 

(492) 

(138) 

Cash and cash equivalents 
For the purposes of the Group Cash Flow Statement cash and cash equivalents at 31 December comprise cash at bank and in hand net of bank overdrafts. 

A final dividend for 2012 of 16.20 US cents per Ordinary Share was proposed by the Board on 6 February 2013 and will be paid, subject to shareholder approval, 

on 8 May 2013 to shareholders on the Register of Members on 19 April 2013. The estimated amount of this dividend on 19 February 2013 is $147m. 

Cash at bank and in hand 

Bank overdrafts 

Cash and cash equivalents 

2012
$ million

178

(11)

167

2011 
$ million 

184 

(23) 

161 

15

3

420

438

13

451

(943)

(492)

2010
$ million 

207

(12)

195

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130

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

22 Acquisitions and assets held for sale 

Accounting policy 

On acquisition, identifiable assets and liabilities (including contingent liabilities) of subsidiaries and associates are measured at their fair values at the date of acquisition 
using the acquisition method. The fair value of assets includes the taxation benefits resulting from amortisation for income taxation purposes from which a third party 
separately acquiring the assets would reasonably be expected to benefit. Goodwill, representing the excess of purchase consideration over the Group’s share of the 
fair value of net assets acquired, is capitalised. 

22.1 Acquisitions 
Year ended 31 December 2012 
On 21 December 2012 the Group acquired substantially all the assets of Healthpoint Biotherapeutics (‘Healthpoint’), a leader in bioactive debridement, dermal repair and 
regeneration wound care treatments.  

The acquisition is deemed to be a business combination within the scope of IFRS 3. Consideration was in the form of a single payment of $782m. The fair values shown 
below are provisional. If new information is obtained within the measurement period (no more than one year after the acquisition date) about facts and circumstances that 
existed at the acquisition date, the acquisition accounting will be revised. 

The provisional estimate of the goodwill arising on the acquisition is $73m. It is attributable to the additional economic benefits expected from the transaction, including 
revenue synergies and the assembled workforce, which has been transferred as part of the acquisition. The goodwill recognised is expected to be deductible for tax 
purposes. 

The following table summarises the consideration transferred, and the recognised amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date. 

Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed 

Property, plant and equipment 

Inventories 

Trade receivables 

Identifiable intangible assets 

Deferred tax assets 

Payables and accruals 

Provisions 

Net assets 

Goodwill 

Cost of acquisition 

$ million

27

46

31

662

5

(49)

(13)

709

73

782

As the Group was the only material customer of Tenet Medical Engineering Inc., no contribution to revenue was achieved in 2011. The post-acquisition contribution 

In January 2012, the Group announced its intention to sell the Clinical Therapies business to Bioventus LLC (‘Bioventus’). This was completed during May 2012 for a total 

consideration of $367m and resulted in a profit on disposal before taxation of $251m. The revenue of the Clinical Therapies business in the four-month period to disposal 

was $69m and profit before taxation was $12m. The details of the transaction are set out below.  

The Group incurred acquisition-related costs of $11m related to professional and advisor fees. These costs have been recognised in administrative expenses in the 
income statement. No ‘acquisition related costs’ were incurred in 2011 or 2010. 

In 2012, since the date of acquisition the contribution to attributable profit from Healthpoint products was immaterial. The unaudited revenues from Healthpoint products 
during 2012 were $190m. Given the proximity of the acquisition to year-end it is impracticable to determine what the consolidated attributable profit would have been had 
the acquisition taken place at the beginning of the year. 

On 23 June 2011, Smith & Nephew acquired 100% of the voting rights of Tenet Medical Engineering, Inc., for an initial payment of $35m, a further payment of $3m, 

deferred for 18 months, and up to $14.5m based on the achievement of future revenue milestones. The cost is assessed as $46m, being the fair value of the 

Year ended 31 December 2011 

probable consideration. 

Trade and other receivables 

Trade and other payables 

Inventories 

Cash 

Net assets 

Goodwill on acquisition 

Cost of acquisition 

Discharged by: 

Cash 

Deferred consideration 

Contingent consideration 

Total consideration 

to attributable profit for 2011 was immaterial. 

Year ended 31 December 2010 

In the year ended 31 December 2010 there were no acquisitions. 

22.2 Disposal of business 

Year ended 31 December 2012 

Loan note receivable 

Investment in associate 

Cash 

Total consideration 

Profit before taxation 

Net assets of business disposed and disposal transaction costs 

Fair value

 to Group

$ million 

(3)

2

1

2

2

44

46

35

3

8

46

$ million 

160

104

103

367

(116)

251

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Group accounts continued 

22 Acquisitions and assets held for sale 

Accounting policy 

Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed 

Property, plant and equipment 

Inventories 

Trade receivables 

Identifiable intangible assets 

Deferred tax assets 

Payables and accruals 

Provisions 

Net assets 

Goodwill 

Cost of acquisition 

131

Year ended 31 December 2011 
On 23 June 2011, Smith & Nephew acquired 100% of the voting rights of Tenet Medical Engineering, Inc., for an initial payment of $35m, a further payment of $3m, 
deferred for 18 months, and up to $14.5m based on the achievement of future revenue milestones. The cost is assessed as $46m, being the fair value of the 
probable consideration. 

On acquisition, identifiable assets and liabilities (including contingent liabilities) of subsidiaries and associates are measured at their fair values at the date of acquisition 

using the acquisition method. The fair value of assets includes the taxation benefits resulting from amortisation for income taxation purposes from which a third party 

separately acquiring the assets would reasonably be expected to benefit. Goodwill, representing the excess of purchase consideration over the Group’s share of the 

fair value of net assets acquired, is capitalised. 

22.1 Acquisitions 

Year ended 31 December 2012 

regeneration wound care treatments.  

On 21 December 2012 the Group acquired substantially all the assets of Healthpoint Biotherapeutics (‘Healthpoint’), a leader in bioactive debridement, dermal repair and 

The acquisition is deemed to be a business combination within the scope of IFRS 3. Consideration was in the form of a single payment of $782m. The fair values shown 

below are provisional. If new information is obtained within the measurement period (no more than one year after the acquisition date) about facts and circumstances that 

existed at the acquisition date, the acquisition accounting will be revised. 

The provisional estimate of the goodwill arising on the acquisition is $73m. It is attributable to the additional economic benefits expected from the transaction, including 

revenue synergies and the assembled workforce, which has been transferred as part of the acquisition. The goodwill recognised is expected to be deductible for tax 

purposes. 

The following table summarises the consideration transferred, and the recognised amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date. 

Trade and other receivables 

Inventories 

Trade and other payables 

Cash 

Net assets 

Goodwill on acquisition 

Cost of acquisition 

Discharged by: 

Cash 

Deferred consideration 

Contingent consideration 

Total consideration 

Fair value
 to Group
$ million 

2

1

(3)

2

2

44

46

35

3

8

46

As the Group was the only material customer of Tenet Medical Engineering Inc., no contribution to revenue was achieved in 2011. The post-acquisition contribution 
to attributable profit for 2011 was immaterial. 

Year ended 31 December 2010 
In the year ended 31 December 2010 there were no acquisitions. 

22.2 Disposal of business 
Year ended 31 December 2012 
In January 2012, the Group announced its intention to sell the Clinical Therapies business to Bioventus LLC (‘Bioventus’). This was completed during May 2012 for a total 
consideration of $367m and resulted in a profit on disposal before taxation of $251m. The revenue of the Clinical Therapies business in the four-month period to disposal 
was $69m and profit before taxation was $12m. The details of the transaction are set out below.  

The Group incurred acquisition-related costs of $11m related to professional and advisor fees. These costs have been recognised in administrative expenses in the 

income statement. No ‘acquisition related costs’ were incurred in 2011 or 2010. 

In 2012, since the date of acquisition the contribution to attributable profit from Healthpoint products was immaterial. The unaudited revenues from Healthpoint products 

during 2012 were $190m. Given the proximity of the acquisition to year-end it is impracticable to determine what the consolidated attributable profit would have been had 

the acquisition taken place at the beginning of the year. 

Loan note receivable 

Investment in associate 

Cash 

Total consideration 

Net assets of business disposed and disposal transaction costs 

Profit before taxation 

$ million 

160

104

103

367

(116)

251

$ million

27

46

31

662

5

(49)

(13)

709

73

782

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132

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

22 Acquisitions and assets held for sale continued 

22.3 Assets held for sale 
The Group has classified following assets and liabilities as held for sale: 

Goodwill 

Intangible assets 

Property, plant and equipment 

Deferred tax assets 

Inventory 

Trade and other receivables 

Liabilities directly associated with assets held for sale 

2012  
$ million 

2011 
$ million

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

37

14

3

7

15

49

125

19

In 2011, the assets and liabilities of the Clinical Therapies business were classified as held for sale. In 2011, this business contributed $237m to revenue and $48m 
to trading profit. This transaction was completed during May 2012 for a total consideration of $367m (see Note 22.2). 

As part of this disposal the Group commitment of $60m detailed in Note 9 was transferred to the associate. 

23 Operating leases 

Accounting policy 

Leases are classified as finance leases when the terms of the lease transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to the Group. All other leases are 
classified as operating leases. 

Executive plans 

Rentals payable under operating leases are expensed in the income statement on a straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease. 

Future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases fall due as follows: 

Land and buildings: 

Within one year 

After one and within two years 

After two and within three years 

After three and within four years 

After four and within five years 

After five years 

Other assets: 

Within one year 

After one and within two years 

After two and within three years 

After three and within four years 

2012  
$ million 

2011 
$ million

30 

24 

17 

14 

8 

4 

97 

15 

10 

4 

1 

30 

31

22

18

15

11

13

110

19

12

6

2

39

24 Other Notes to the accounts 

24.1 Share-based payments 

Accounting policy 

retained earnings. 

Employee plans 

The Group operates a number of equity-settled executive and employee share plans. For all grants of share options and awards, the fair value at the grant date is 

calculated using appropriate option pricing models. The grant date fair value is recognised over the vesting period as an expense, with a corresponding increase in 

The Smith & Nephew Sharesave Plan (2002) (adopted by shareholders on 3 April 2002) (the Save As You Earn (“SAYE”) plan), the Smith & Nephew International 

Sharesave Plan (2002), Smith & Nephew France Sharesave Plan (2002), Smith & Nephew Sharesave Plan (2012) (the Save As You Earn (“SAYE 2012”) plan) (adopted 

by shareholders on 12 April 2012), Smith & Nephew International Sharesave Plan (2012) (adopted by shareholders on 12 April 2012) and Smith & Nephew France 

Sharesave Plan (2012) (adopted by shareholders on 12 April 2012) are together termed the “Employee Plans”. 

The SAYE and SAYE 2012 plans are available to all employees in the UK employed by participating Group companies, subject to three months’ service. The schemes 

provide for employees to save up to £250 per month and gives them an option to acquire shares based on the committed amount to be saved. The option price is 

not less than 80% of the average of middle market quotations of the Ordinary Shares on the three dealing days preceding the date of invitation. The Smith & Nephew 

International Sharesave Plan (2002) and Smith & Nephew International Sharesave Plan (2012) are available to employees in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, 

Denmark, Finland, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and 

the United Arab Emirates. Employees in India, Ireland and Italy participated in these plans for the first time in 2012. The Smith & Nephew France Sharesave Plan (2002) 

and Smith & Nephew France Sharesave Plan (2012) are available to all employees in France. The International and French plans operate on a substantially similar basis 

to the SAYE plans.  

Employees in the US are able to participate in the Employee Stock Purchase Plan, which gives them the opportunity to acquire shares, in the form of ADSs, at a discount 

of 15% (or more if the shares appreciate in value during the plan’s quarterly purchase period) to the market price, through a regular savings plan. 

The Smith & Nephew 2001 UK Approved Share Option Plan, the Smith & Nephew 2001 UK Unapproved Share Option Plan, the Smith & Nephew 2001 US Share Plan 

(adopted by shareholders on 4 April 2001), the Smith & Nephew 2004 Executive Share Option Plan (adopted by shareholders on 6 May 2004) and the Smith & Nephew 

Global Share Plan 2010 (adopted by shareholders on 6 May 2010) are together termed the “Executive Plans”. 

Under the terms of the Executive Plans, the Remuneration Committee, consisting of Non-Executive Directors, may at their discretion approve the grant of options to 

employees of the Group to acquire Ordinary Shares in the Company. Options granted under the Smith & Nephew 2001 US Share Plan (the “US Plan”) and the Smith & 

Nephew 2004 Executive Share Option Plan are to acquire ADSs or Ordinary Shares. For Executive Plans adopted in 2001 and 2004, the market value is the average 

quoted price of an Ordinary Share for the three business days preceding the date of grant or the average quoted price of an ADS or Ordinary Share, for the three 

business days preceding the date of grant or the quoted price on the date of grant if higher. For the Global Share Plan adopted in 2010 the market value is the closing 

price of an Ordinary Share or ADS on the last trading day prior to the grant date. With the exception of options granted under the 2001 US Plan and the Global Share Plan 

2010, the vesting of options granted from 2001 are subject to achievement of a performance condition. Options granted under the 2001 US Plan and the Global Share 

Plan 2010 are not subject to any performance conditions. Prior to 2008, the 2001 US Plan options became cumulatively exercisable as to 10% after one year, 30% after 

two years, 60% after three years and the remaining balance after four years. With effect from 2008, options granted under the 2001 US Plan became cumulatively 

exercisable as to 33.3% after one year, 66.7% after two years and the remaining balance after the third year. The 2001 UK Unapproved Share Option Plan was open 

to certain employees outside the US and the US Plan is open to certain employees in the US, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico. The Global Share Plan 2010 is open 

to employees globally. The 2004 Plan was open to senior executives only. 

The maximum term of options granted, under all plans, is 10 years from the date of grant. All share option plans are settled in shares. 

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Group accounts continued 

22 Acquisitions and assets held for sale continued 

22.3 Assets held for sale 

The Group has classified following assets and liabilities as held for sale: 

Goodwill 

Intangible assets 

Property, plant and equipment 

Deferred tax assets 

Inventory 

Trade and other receivables 

23 Operating leases 

Accounting policy 

classified as operating leases. 

Land and buildings: 

Within one year 

After one and within two years 

After two and within three years 

After three and within four years 

After four and within five years 

After five years 

Other assets: 

Within one year 

After one and within two years 

After two and within three years 

After three and within four years 

Liabilities directly associated with assets held for sale 

In 2011, the assets and liabilities of the Clinical Therapies business were classified as held for sale. In 2011, this business contributed $237m to revenue and $48m 

to trading profit. This transaction was completed during May 2012 for a total consideration of $367m (see Note 22.2). 

As part of this disposal the Group commitment of $60m detailed in Note 9 was transferred to the associate. 

Leases are classified as finance leases when the terms of the lease transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to the Group. All other leases are 

Rentals payable under operating leases are expensed in the income statement on a straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease. 

Future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases fall due as follows: 

2012  

$ million 

2011 

$ million

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

30 

24 

17 

14 

8 

4 

97 

15 

10 

4 

1 

30 

37

14

3

7

15

49

125

19

110

31

22

18

15

11

13

19

12

6

2

39

133

24 Other Notes to the accounts 

24.1 Share-based payments 

Accounting policy 

2012  

$ million 

2011 

$ million

The Group operates a number of equity-settled executive and employee share plans. For all grants of share options and awards, the fair value at the grant date is 
calculated using appropriate option pricing models. The grant date fair value is recognised over the vesting period as an expense, with a corresponding increase in 
retained earnings. 

Employee plans 
The Smith & Nephew Sharesave Plan (2002) (adopted by shareholders on 3 April 2002) (the Save As You Earn (“SAYE”) plan), the Smith & Nephew International 
Sharesave Plan (2002), Smith & Nephew France Sharesave Plan (2002), Smith & Nephew Sharesave Plan (2012) (the Save As You Earn (“SAYE 2012”) plan) (adopted 
by shareholders on 12 April 2012), Smith & Nephew International Sharesave Plan (2012) (adopted by shareholders on 12 April 2012) and Smith & Nephew France 
Sharesave Plan (2012) (adopted by shareholders on 12 April 2012) are together termed the “Employee Plans”. 

The SAYE and SAYE 2012 plans are available to all employees in the UK employed by participating Group companies, subject to three months’ service. The schemes 
provide for employees to save up to £250 per month and gives them an option to acquire shares based on the committed amount to be saved. The option price is 
not less than 80% of the average of middle market quotations of the Ordinary Shares on the three dealing days preceding the date of invitation. The Smith & Nephew 
International Sharesave Plan (2002) and Smith & Nephew International Sharesave Plan (2012) are available to employees in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, 
Denmark, Finland, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and 
the United Arab Emirates. Employees in India, Ireland and Italy participated in these plans for the first time in 2012. The Smith & Nephew France Sharesave Plan (2002) 
and Smith & Nephew France Sharesave Plan (2012) are available to all employees in France. The International and French plans operate on a substantially similar basis 
to the SAYE plans.  

Employees in the US are able to participate in the Employee Stock Purchase Plan, which gives them the opportunity to acquire shares, in the form of ADSs, at a discount 
of 15% (or more if the shares appreciate in value during the plan’s quarterly purchase period) to the market price, through a regular savings plan. 

Executive plans 
The Smith & Nephew 2001 UK Approved Share Option Plan, the Smith & Nephew 2001 UK Unapproved Share Option Plan, the Smith & Nephew 2001 US Share Plan 
(adopted by shareholders on 4 April 2001), the Smith & Nephew 2004 Executive Share Option Plan (adopted by shareholders on 6 May 2004) and the Smith & Nephew 
Global Share Plan 2010 (adopted by shareholders on 6 May 2010) are together termed the “Executive Plans”. 

Under the terms of the Executive Plans, the Remuneration Committee, consisting of Non-Executive Directors, may at their discretion approve the grant of options to 
employees of the Group to acquire Ordinary Shares in the Company. Options granted under the Smith & Nephew 2001 US Share Plan (the “US Plan”) and the Smith & 
Nephew 2004 Executive Share Option Plan are to acquire ADSs or Ordinary Shares. For Executive Plans adopted in 2001 and 2004, the market value is the average 
quoted price of an Ordinary Share for the three business days preceding the date of grant or the average quoted price of an ADS or Ordinary Share, for the three 
business days preceding the date of grant or the quoted price on the date of grant if higher. For the Global Share Plan adopted in 2010 the market value is the closing 
price of an Ordinary Share or ADS on the last trading day prior to the grant date. With the exception of options granted under the 2001 US Plan and the Global Share Plan 
2010, the vesting of options granted from 2001 are subject to achievement of a performance condition. Options granted under the 2001 US Plan and the Global Share 
Plan 2010 are not subject to any performance conditions. Prior to 2008, the 2001 US Plan options became cumulatively exercisable as to 10% after one year, 30% after 
two years, 60% after three years and the remaining balance after four years. With effect from 2008, options granted under the 2001 US Plan became cumulatively 
exercisable as to 33.3% after one year, 66.7% after two years and the remaining balance after the third year. The 2001 UK Unapproved Share Option Plan was open 
to certain employees outside the US and the US Plan is open to certain employees in the US, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico. The Global Share Plan 2010 is open 
to employees globally. The 2004 Plan was open to senior executives only. 
The maximum term of options granted, under all plans, is 10 years from the date of grant. All share option plans are settled in shares. 

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134

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

24 Other Notes to the accounts continued 

24.1 Share-based payments continued 
At 31 December 2012 19,690,000 (2011 – 27,316,000, 2010 – 25,753,000) options were outstanding under share option plans as follows: 

Options granted during the year were as follows: 

Number of
 shares
Thousand

Range of option 
exercise prices 
Pence 

Weighted average
 exercise price
Pence

Employee Plans: 

Outstanding at 1 January 2010 

Granted 

Forfeited 

Exercised 

Expired 

Outstanding at 31 December 2010 

Granted 

Forfeited 

Exercised 

Expired 

Outstanding at 31 December 2011 

Granted 

Forfeited 

Exercised 

Expired 

Outstanding at 31 December 2012 

Options exercisable at 31 December 2012

Options exercisable at 31 December 2011 

Options exercisable at 31 December 2010 

Executive Plans: 

Outstanding at 1 January 2010 

Granted 

Forfeited 

Exercised 

Expired 

Outstanding at 31 December 2010 

Granted 

Forfeited 

Exercised 

Expired 

Outstanding at 31 December 2011 

Granted 

Forfeited 

Exercised 

Expired 

Outstanding at 31 December 2012 

Options exercisable at 31 December 2012

Options exercisable at 31 December 2011 

Options exercisable at 31 December 2010 

3,383

986

(364)

(625)

(22)

3,358

1,090

(122)

(602)

(144)

3,580

947

(402)

(925)

(38)

3,162

152

122

87

20,000

6,249

(977)

(2,386)

(491)

22,395

5,706

(763)

(2,369)

(1,233)

23,736

3,046

(954)

(8,740)

(560)

16,528

8,512

7,979

5,153

348.0–640.0 

459.0–556.0 

348.0–609.0 

348.0–576.5 

348.0–640.0 

348.0–640.0 

452.0–585.0 

348.0–609.0 

348.0–576.5 

380.0–609.0 

348.0–640.0 

535.0–535.0 

348.0–609.0 

348.0–609.0 

348.0–640.0 

380.0–609.0 

380.0–609.0 

348.0–640.0 

425.0–576.5 

265.0–637.5 

424.0–675.0 

479.0–680.5 

265.0–637.5 

418.0–637.8 

409.5–680.5 

580.0–703.0 

479.0–637.8 

445.0–680.5 

445.0–637.8 

409.5–703.0 

642.0–650.0 

479.0–703.0 

434.0–651.0 

435.5–637.8 

409.5–680.5 

409.5–680.5 

409.5–680.5 

409.5–627.0 

422.7

462.2

439.8

435.2

431.7

430.1

454.8

427.6

454.7

450.7

432.8

535.0

434.5

396.0

496.2

473.1

400.8

470.8

466.5

547.1

520.9

581.3

479.2

575.6

544.9

599.4

565.5

536.6

549.7

561.2

650.0

569.0

547.7

588.7

583.3

562.7

595.6

548.3

The weighted average remaining contractual life of options outstanding at 31 December 2012 was 6.6 (2011 – 6.6 years, 2010 – 6.1 years) years for Executive Plans and 
2.6 (2011 – 2.6 years, 2010 – 2.7 years) years for Employee Plans. 

Weighted average share price 

2012
pence

640.5

2011 
pence 

639.9 

2010
pence

619.3

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Weighted

 average fair

 value per

 option at

 grant date

 Pence

184.0

148.7

Weighted 

 average 

 share 

 price at 

grant date 

Pence 

681.0 

650.0 

Options

 granted

 Thousand

947

3,046

Weighted 

 average 

 exercise 

 price 

 Pence 

535.5 

650.0 

Weighted

 average

 option life

Years

3.8

10.0

The weighted average fair value of options granted under employee plans during 2011 was 189.2p (2010 – 170.2p) and those under executive plans during 2011 was 

Options granted under the executive plans are valued using a binomial model. Options granted under employee plans are valued using the Black-Scholes option model 

as management consider that options granted under these plans are exercised within a short period of time after the vesting date. Options granted under each plan are 

valued separately and a weighted average fair value is calculated. 

The binomial model is used for executive plans so that proper allowance is made for the possibility of early exercise. At the 2012 grant, management expected 90% of the 

options granted under the Global Share Plan 2010 to vest (2011 – 90%, 2010 – 90%). Each year an assessment is made of the current vesting estimates and they are 

updated to reflect revised expectations of the number of grants that will vest. 

For all plans the inputs to the option pricing models are reassessed for each grant. The following assumptions were used in calculating the fair value of options granted: 

Employee plans

Executive plans

2012

1.5

25.0

1.3

3.8

2011

1.5

30.0

2.0

3.9

2010

1.5

30.0

2.5

3.9

2012 

1.5 

25.0 

1.2 

10.0 

2011

1.5

30.0

2.0

10.0

2010

1.5

30.0

2.5

9.8

(i)  Volatility is assessed on a historic basis primarily based on past share price movements over the expected life of the options. 

(ii)  The risk free interest rate reflects the yields available on zero coupon government bonds over the option term and currency. 

(iii)  An assessment of an Executive Plan’s option life is based on an exercise model. This is based on a mixture of historic experience and generally accepted behavioural traits. 5% (2011 – 5%, 

2010 – 5%) of Executive Plan option holders are assumed to leave and exercise their options (or forfeit them if under water) each year after vesting. In addition, 50% (2011 – 50%, 2010 – 50%) 

of Executive Plan option holders are assumed to exercise by choice per annum providing the gain available is at least 25% for the options granted under the Global Share Plan 2010 (2011 – 

50% for the options granted to executives and 25% for other recipients under the Global Share Plan 2010, 2010 – 50% for the 2004 Plan and 50% for the options granted to executives and 

25% for other recipients under the Global Share Plan 2010). 

Summarised information about options outstanding under the share option plans at 31 December 2012 is as follows: 

Employee Plans 

Executive Plans 

176.1p (2010 – 173.7p). 

Dividend yield % 

Expected volatility % (i) 

Risk free interest rate % (ii) 

Expected life in years (iii) 

Employee Plans: 

380.0p to 640.5p (i)  

Above 640.5p (i) 

Executive Plans: 

409.5p to 640.5p (i)  

640.5p (i) to 680.5p 

Number outstanding 

remaining contract life 

Thousand 

Years

Weighted average 

3,162 

– 

3,162 

13,431 

3,097 

16,528 

2.6

–

2.6

5.9

9.5

6.6

(i)  The split has been determined based on the weighted average share price of 640.5p. 

Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Group accounts continued 

135

24 Other Notes to the accounts continued 

24.1 Share-based payments continued 

At 31 December 2012 19,690,000 (2011 – 27,316,000, 2010 – 25,753,000) options were outstanding under share option plans as follows: 

Options granted during the year were as follows: 

Number of

 shares

Thousand

Range of option 

exercise prices 

Pence 

Weighted average

 exercise price

Pence

Employee Plans 

Executive Plans 

Weighted
 average fair
 value per
 option at
 grant date
 Pence

184.0

148.7

Weighted 
 average 
 share 
 price at 
grant date 
Pence 

681.0 

650.0 

Options
 granted
 Thousand

947

3,046

Weighted 
 average 
 exercise 
 price 
 Pence 

535.5 

650.0 

Weighted
 average
 option life
Years

3.8

10.0

The weighted average fair value of options granted under employee plans during 2011 was 189.2p (2010 – 170.2p) and those under executive plans during 2011 was 
176.1p (2010 – 173.7p). 

Options granted under the executive plans are valued using a binomial model. Options granted under employee plans are valued using the Black-Scholes option model 
as management consider that options granted under these plans are exercised within a short period of time after the vesting date. Options granted under each plan are 
valued separately and a weighted average fair value is calculated. 

The binomial model is used for executive plans so that proper allowance is made for the possibility of early exercise. At the 2012 grant, management expected 90% of the 
options granted under the Global Share Plan 2010 to vest (2011 – 90%, 2010 – 90%). Each year an assessment is made of the current vesting estimates and they are 
updated to reflect revised expectations of the number of grants that will vest. 

For all plans the inputs to the option pricing models are reassessed for each grant. The following assumptions were used in calculating the fair value of options granted: 

Dividend yield % 

Expected volatility % (i) 

Risk free interest rate % (ii) 

Expected life in years (iii) 

Employee plans

Executive plans

2012

1.5

25.0

1.3

3.8

2011

1.5

30.0

2.0

3.9

2010

1.5

30.0

2.5

3.9

2012 

1.5 

25.0 

1.2 

10.0 

2011

1.5

30.0

2.0

10.0

2010

1.5

30.0

2.5

9.8

(i)  Volatility is assessed on a historic basis primarily based on past share price movements over the expected life of the options. 

(ii)  The risk free interest rate reflects the yields available on zero coupon government bonds over the option term and currency. 

(iii)  An assessment of an Executive Plan’s option life is based on an exercise model. This is based on a mixture of historic experience and generally accepted behavioural traits. 5% (2011 – 5%, 

2010 – 5%) of Executive Plan option holders are assumed to leave and exercise their options (or forfeit them if under water) each year after vesting. In addition, 50% (2011 – 50%, 2010 – 50%) 
of Executive Plan option holders are assumed to exercise by choice per annum providing the gain available is at least 25% for the options granted under the Global Share Plan 2010 (2011 – 
50% for the options granted to executives and 25% for other recipients under the Global Share Plan 2010, 2010 – 50% for the 2004 Plan and 50% for the options granted to executives and 
25% for other recipients under the Global Share Plan 2010). 

Summarised information about options outstanding under the share option plans at 31 December 2012 is as follows: 

Employee Plans: 

380.0p to 640.5p (i)  

Above 640.5p (i) 

Executive Plans: 

409.5p to 640.5p (i)  

640.5p (i) to 680.5p 

(i)  The split has been determined based on the weighted average share price of 640.5p. 

Number outstanding 
Thousand 

Weighted average 
remaining contract life 
Years

3,162 

– 

3,162 

13,431 

3,097 

16,528 

2.6

–

2.6

5.9

9.5

6.6

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Employee Plans: 

Outstanding at 1 January 2010 

Outstanding at 31 December 2010 

Outstanding at 31 December 2011 

Granted 

Forfeited 

Exercised 

Expired 

Granted 

Forfeited 

Exercised 

Expired 

Granted 

Forfeited 

Exercised 

Expired 

Granted 

Forfeited 

Exercised 

Expired 

Granted 

Forfeited 

Exercised 

Expired 

Granted 

Forfeited 

Exercised 

Expired 

Outstanding at 31 December 2012 

Options exercisable at 31 December 2012

Options exercisable at 31 December 2011 

Options exercisable at 31 December 2010 

Executive Plans: 

Outstanding at 1 January 2010 

Outstanding at 31 December 2010 

Outstanding at 31 December 2011 

Outstanding at 31 December 2012 

Options exercisable at 31 December 2012

Options exercisable at 31 December 2011 

Options exercisable at 31 December 2010 

Weighted average share price 

3,383

986

(364)

(625)

(22)

3,358

1,090

(122)

(602)

(144)

3,580

947

(402)

(925)

(38)

3,162

152

122

87

20,000

6,249

(977)

(2,386)

(491)

22,395

5,706

(763)

(2,369)

(1,233)

23,736

3,046

(954)

(8,740)

(560)

16,528

8,512

7,979

5,153

2012

pence

640.5

348.0–640.0 

459.0–556.0 

348.0–609.0 

348.0–576.5 

348.0–640.0 

348.0–640.0 

452.0–585.0 

348.0–609.0 

348.0–576.5 

380.0–609.0 

348.0–640.0 

535.0–535.0 

348.0–609.0 

348.0–609.0 

348.0–640.0 

380.0–609.0 

380.0–609.0 

348.0–640.0 

425.0–576.5 

265.0–637.5 

424.0–675.0 

479.0–680.5 

265.0–637.5 

418.0–637.8 

409.5–680.5 

580.0–703.0 

479.0–637.8 

445.0–680.5 

445.0–637.8 

409.5–703.0 

642.0–650.0 

479.0–703.0 

434.0–651.0 

435.5–637.8 

409.5–680.5 

409.5–680.5 

409.5–680.5 

409.5–627.0 

2011 

pence 

639.9 

422.7

462.2

439.8

435.2

431.7

430.1

454.8

427.6

454.7

450.7

432.8

535.0

434.5

396.0

496.2

473.1

400.8

470.8

466.5

547.1

520.9

581.3

479.2

575.6

544.9

599.4

565.5

536.6

549.7

561.2

650.0

569.0

547.7

588.7

583.3

562.7

595.6

548.3

2010

pence

619.3

The weighted average remaining contractual life of options outstanding at 31 December 2012 was 6.6 (2011 – 6.6 years, 2010 – 6.1 years) years for Executive Plans and 

2.6 (2011 – 2.6 years, 2010 – 2.7 years) years for Employee Plans. 

overviewstrategy and performancemarketplace and business reviewsustainability reviewfinancial review  and principal riskscorporate  governanceaccounts and  other informationsection 7 accounts and other information 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Under the Executive Plans, PSP, EIA and CIP the number of Ordinary Shares over which options and share awards may be granted is limited so that the number of 

Ordinary Shares issued or that may be issued during the 10 years preceding the date of grant shall not exceed 5% of the Ordinary Share capital at the date of grant. 

The total number of Ordinary Shares which may be issuable in any 10-year period under all share plans operated by the Company may not exceed 10% of the Ordinary 

In the course of normal operations, the Group traded with its associates detailed in Note 11. The aggregated transactions, which have not been disclosed elsewhere 

Share-based payments – charge to income statement 

The expense charged to the income statement for share-based payments is as follows: 

Granted in current year 

Granted in prior years 

Total share-based payments expense for the year 

Share capital at the date of grant. 

24.2 Related party transactions 

Trading transactions 

in the financial statements, are summarised below: 

Sales to the associates 

Purchases from the associates 

Short-term employee benefits 

Share-based payments expense 

Pension and post-employment benefit entitlements 

Termination benefits 

All sale and purchase transactions occur on an arm’s length basis. 

Key management personnel 

The remuneration of executive officers (including Non-Executive Directors) during the year is summarised below: 

2012

$ million

9

25

34

2011 

$ million 

9 

21 

30 

2010

$ million

5

16

21

2012

$ million

14

8

2011 

$ million 

8 

4 

2010

$ million

8

4

2012

$ million

2011 

$ million 

2010

$ million

16

10

1

–

27

19 

9 

1 

1 

30 

13

3

1

–

17

136

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

24 Other Notes to the accounts continued 

Share-based payments – long-term incentive plans 
In 2004, a share-based incentive plan was introduced for Executive Directors, executive officers and the next level of senior executives, which replaced the Long-term 
Incentive Plan (LTIP). The plan included a Performance Share Plan (“PSP”) and a Bonus Co-Investment Plan (“CIP”). 

Vesting of the PSP awards is dependent upon performance relative to the FTSE 100 and an index based on major international companies in the medical devices 
industry. 

Under the CIP, participants could elect to use up to a maximum of one-half of their annual bonus to purchase shares. If the shares are held for three years and the 
Group’s EPSA growth targets are achieved participants receive an award of matching shares for each share purchased. 

From 2009, the CIP was replaced by the Deferred Bonus Plan. This plan was designed to encourage executives to build up and maintain a significant shareholding in 
the Company. Under the plan, up to one third of any bonus earned at target level or above by an eligible employee was compulsorily deferred into shares which vested, 
subject to continued employment, in equal annual tranches over three years (i.e. one third each year). No further performance conditions applied to the deferred shares. 

From 2010, Performance Share awards were granted under the Global Share Plan 2010 for all executives other than Executive Directors. Awards granted under both 
plans are combined to provide the figures below. Vesting of the share awards is dependent upon performance relative to the FTSE 100 and an index based on major 
international companies in the medical devices industry. 

From 2012, Deferred Bonus Plan and GSP 2010 options for Executive Directors, executive officers and the next level of senior executives were replaced by Equity 
Incentive Awards (“EIA”). EIA are designed to encourage executives to build up and maintain a significant shareholding in the Company. EIA will vest, in equal annual 
tranches over three years (i.e. one third each year), subject to continued employment and personal performance. No further performance conditions will apply to the EIA. 

The fair values of awards granted under long-term incentive plans are calculated using a binomial model. The exercise price for all awards granted under the long term 
incentive plans is $nil. Performance Share awards under both the PSP and Global Share Plan 2010 contain vesting conditions based on TSR versus a comparator group 
which represent market-based performance conditions for valuation purposes and an assessment of vesting probability is therefore factored into the award date 
calculations. The assumptions include the volatilities for the comparator groups. A correlation of 35% (2011 – 40%, 2010 – 35%) has also been assumed for the 
companies in the medical devices sector as they are impacted by similar factors. The Performance Target for the Global Share Plan 2010 is a combination of Free Cash 
Flow growth and the Group’s Total Shareholder Return (“TSR”) performance over the three year performance period. 

The other assumptions used are consistent with the executive scheme assumptions disclosed in Note 24.1. 

At 31 December 2012 the maximum number of shares that could be awarded under the Group’s long-term incentive plans was: 

Outstanding at 1 January 2010 

Awarded 

Vested 

Forfeited 

Outstanding at 31 December 2010 

Awarded 

Vested 

Forfeited 

Outstanding at 31 December 2011 

Awarded 

Vested 

Forfeited 

Outstanding at 31 December 2012 

Other Awards

EIA

–

–

–

–

–

838

(44)

–

794

187

(263)

–

718

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,060

(49)

(82)

929

PSP

4,880

2,386

(501)

(753)

6,012

2,282

(366)

(1,660)

6,268

2,190

(1,785)

(1,431)

5,242

Number of shares in thousands

CIP 

445 

– 

(116) 

(132) 

197 

– 

– 

(197) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

Deferred 
 Bonus Plan 

292 

338 

(101) 

(7) 

522 

351 

(375) 

(6) 

492 

– 

(287) 

(41) 

164 

Total

5,617

2,724

(718)

(892)

6,731

3,471

(785)

(1,863)

7,554

3,437

(2,384)

(1,554)

7,053

Other Awards mainly comprises of conditional share awards granted under the Global Share Plan 2010. 

The weighted average remaining contractual life of awards outstanding at 31 December 2012 was 0.8 years (2011 – 1.2 years, 2010 – 1.8 years) for the PSP, 0.9 years 
(2011 – 1.7 years, 2010 – 1.9 years) for the Deferred Bonus Plan, 2.2 years for the EIA and 0.9 years for the other awards (2011 – 1.5 years). There were no awards 
outstanding under the CIP in 2012 and 2011, the remaining contractual life of awards under the CIP was 0.2 years for 2010. 

015914_Smith&Nephew_AR12_p89-164.indd   136

25/02/2013   11:45

Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Group accounts continued 

24 Other Notes to the accounts continued 

Share-based payments – long-term incentive plans 

In 2004, a share-based incentive plan was introduced for Executive Directors, executive officers and the next level of senior executives, which replaced the Long-term 

Incentive Plan (LTIP). The plan included a Performance Share Plan (“PSP”) and a Bonus Co-Investment Plan (“CIP”). 

Vesting of the PSP awards is dependent upon performance relative to the FTSE 100 and an index based on major international companies in the medical devices 

industry. 

Under the CIP, participants could elect to use up to a maximum of one-half of their annual bonus to purchase shares. If the shares are held for three years and the 

Group’s EPSA growth targets are achieved participants receive an award of matching shares for each share purchased. 

From 2009, the CIP was replaced by the Deferred Bonus Plan. This plan was designed to encourage executives to build up and maintain a significant shareholding in 

the Company. Under the plan, up to one third of any bonus earned at target level or above by an eligible employee was compulsorily deferred into shares which vested, 

subject to continued employment, in equal annual tranches over three years (i.e. one third each year). No further performance conditions applied to the deferred shares. 

From 2010, Performance Share awards were granted under the Global Share Plan 2010 for all executives other than Executive Directors. Awards granted under both 

plans are combined to provide the figures below. Vesting of the share awards is dependent upon performance relative to the FTSE 100 and an index based on major 

international companies in the medical devices industry. 

From 2012, Deferred Bonus Plan and GSP 2010 options for Executive Directors, executive officers and the next level of senior executives were replaced by Equity 

Incentive Awards (“EIA”). EIA are designed to encourage executives to build up and maintain a significant shareholding in the Company. EIA will vest, in equal annual 

tranches over three years (i.e. one third each year), subject to continued employment and personal performance. No further performance conditions will apply to the EIA. 

The fair values of awards granted under long-term incentive plans are calculated using a binomial model. The exercise price for all awards granted under the long term 

incentive plans is $nil. Performance Share awards under both the PSP and Global Share Plan 2010 contain vesting conditions based on TSR versus a comparator group 

which represent market-based performance conditions for valuation purposes and an assessment of vesting probability is therefore factored into the award date 

calculations. The assumptions include the volatilities for the comparator groups. A correlation of 35% (2011 – 40%, 2010 – 35%) has also been assumed for the 

companies in the medical devices sector as they are impacted by similar factors. The Performance Target for the Global Share Plan 2010 is a combination of Free Cash 

Flow growth and the Group’s Total Shareholder Return (“TSR”) performance over the three year performance period. 

The other assumptions used are consistent with the executive scheme assumptions disclosed in Note 24.1. 

At 31 December 2012 the maximum number of shares that could be awarded under the Group’s long-term incentive plans was: 

Outstanding at 1 January 2010 

Other Awards

EIA

–

–

–

–

–

–

838

(44)

794

187

(263)

–

718

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,060

(49)

(82)

929

PSP

4,880

2,386

(501)

(753)

6,012

2,282

(366)

(1,660)

6,268

2,190

(1,785)

(1,431)

5,242

Number of shares in thousands

Deferred 

 Bonus Plan 

292 

338 

(101) 

(7) 

522 

351 

(375) 

(6) 

492 

– 

(287) 

(41) 

164 

Total

5,617

2,724

(718)

(892)

6,731

3,471

(785)

(1,863)

7,554

3,437

(2,384)

(1,554)

7,053

CIP 

445 

– 

(116) 

(132) 

197 

(197) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

Awarded 

Vested 

Forfeited 

Awarded 

Vested 

Forfeited 

Awarded 

Vested 

Forfeited 

Outstanding at 31 December 2010 

Outstanding at 31 December 2011 

Outstanding at 31 December 2012 

Other Awards mainly comprises of conditional share awards granted under the Global Share Plan 2010. 

The weighted average remaining contractual life of awards outstanding at 31 December 2012 was 0.8 years (2011 – 1.2 years, 2010 – 1.8 years) for the PSP, 0.9 years 

(2011 – 1.7 years, 2010 – 1.9 years) for the Deferred Bonus Plan, 2.2 years for the EIA and 0.9 years for the other awards (2011 – 1.5 years). There were no awards 

outstanding under the CIP in 2012 and 2011, the remaining contractual life of awards under the CIP was 0.2 years for 2010. 

137

Share-based payments – charge to income statement 
The expense charged to the income statement for share-based payments is as follows: 

Granted in current year 

Granted in prior years 

Total share-based payments expense for the year 

2012
$ million

9

25

34

2011 
$ million 

9 

21 

30 

2010
$ million

5

16

21

Under the Executive Plans, PSP, EIA and CIP the number of Ordinary Shares over which options and share awards may be granted is limited so that the number of 
Ordinary Shares issued or that may be issued during the 10 years preceding the date of grant shall not exceed 5% of the Ordinary Share capital at the date of grant. 
The total number of Ordinary Shares which may be issuable in any 10-year period under all share plans operated by the Company may not exceed 10% of the Ordinary 
Share capital at the date of grant. 
24.2 Related party transactions 
Trading transactions 
In the course of normal operations, the Group traded with its associates detailed in Note 11. The aggregated transactions, which have not been disclosed elsewhere 
in the financial statements, are summarised below: 

Sales to the associates 

Purchases from the associates 

2012
$ million

14

8

2011 
$ million 

8 

4 

2010
$ million

8

4

All sale and purchase transactions occur on an arm’s length basis. 

Key management personnel 
The remuneration of executive officers (including Non-Executive Directors) during the year is summarised below: 

Short-term employee benefits 

Share-based payments expense 

Pension and post-employment benefit entitlements 

Termination benefits 

2012
$ million

2011 
$ million 

2010
$ million

16

10

1

–

27

19 

9 

1 

1 

30 

13

3

1

–

17

015914_Smith&Nephew_AR12_p89-164.indd   137

25/02/2013   11:45

overviewstrategy and performancemarketplace and business reviewsustainability reviewfinancial review  and principal riskscorporate  governanceaccounts and  other informationsection 7 accounts and other information 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
138

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

Independent auditor’s report for the Company

24 Other Notes to the accounts continued 

24.3 Principal subsidiary undertakings 
The information provided below is given for principal trading and manufacturing subsidiary undertakings, all of which are 100% owned, in accordance with Section 410 of 
the Companies Act 2006. A full list will be appended to Smith & Nephew’s next annual return to Companies House: 

Independent Auditor’s Report to the members of 

Opinion on other matters prescribed by the 

Smith & Nephew plc 

Companies Act 2006 

We have audited the parent company financial statements of Smith & Nephew plc 

In our opinion: 

Company Name 

United Kingdom: 

Smith & Nephew Healthcare Limited 

Smith & Nephew Medical Limited 

T. J. Smith & Nephew, Limited 

Continental Europe: 

Smith & Nephew GmbH 

Smith & Nephew SA-NV 

Smith & Nephew A/S 

Smith & Nephew Oy 

Smith & Nephew SAS 

Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics GmbH 

Smith & Nephew GmbH 

Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics Hellas SA 

Smith & Nephew Limited 

Smith & Nephew Srl 

Smith & Nephew Nederland CV 

Smith & Nephew A/S 

Smith & Nephew Sp Zoo 

Smith & Nephew Lda 

Smith & Nephew SAU 

Smith & Nephew AB 

Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics AG 

USA: 

Smith & Nephew Inc. 

Africa, Asia, Australasia and Other America:

Smith & Nephew Pty Limited 

Smith & Nephew Inc. 

Smith & Nephew (Alberta) Inc. 

Tenet Medical Engineering Inc. 

Smith & Nephew Medical (Shanghai) Limited 

Smith & Nephew Medical (Suzhou) Limited 

Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics (Beijing) Limited

Smith & Nephew Limited 

Smith & Nephew Healthcare Private Limited 

Smith & Nephew KK 

Smith & Nephew Limited 

Smith & Nephew Healthcare Sdn Berhad 

Smith & Nephew SA de CV 

Smith & Nephew Limited 

Smith & Nephew Inc. 

Smith & Nephew Pte Limited 

Smith & Nephew (Pty) Limited 

Smith & Nephew Limited 

Smith & Nephew FZE 

Activity 

Country of operation and incorporation 

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

England & Wales 

England & Wales 

England & Wales 

Austria

Belgium

Denmark

Finland

France

Germany

Germany

Greece

Ireland

Italy

Netherlands 

Norway

Poland

Portugal

Spain

Sweden

Switzerland

Medical Devices

United States 

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Australia

Canada

Canada

Canada

China

China

China

Hong Kong

India

Japan

Korea

Malaysia

Mexico

New Zealand 

Puerto Rico

Singapore

South Africa 

Thailand

United Arab Emirates 

015914_Smith&Nephew_AR12_p89-164.indd   138

25/02/2013   11:45

–  the part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited has been properly 

prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 2006; and 

–  the information given in the Directors’ Report for the financial year for which the 

financial statements are prepared is consistent with the Parent Company 

financial statements. 

Matters on which we are required to report 

by exception 

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the 

Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion: 

–  adequate accounting records have not been kept by the Parent Company, 

or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not 

visited by us; or 

–  the Parent Company financial statements and the part of the Directors’ 

Remuneration Report to be audited are not in agreement with the accounting 

records and returns; or 

–  certain disclosures of Directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or 

–  we have not received all the information and explanations we require 

for our audit. 

Other matter 

for the year ended 31 December 2012 which comprise the Parent Company 

balance sheet and the related notes 1 to 10. The financial reporting framework 

that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom 

Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). 

This report is made solely to the Company’s members, as a body, in accordance 

with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been 

undertaken so that we might state to the Company’s members those matters we 

are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the 

fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to 

anyone other than the Company and the Company’s members as a body, for our 

audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed. 

Respective responsibilities of directors and auditor 

As explained more fully in the Directors’ Responsibility Statement set out on page 

89, the Directors are responsible for the preparation of the Parent Company 

financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. Our 

responsibility is to audit and express an opinion on the Parent Company financial 

statements in accordance with applicable law and International Standards on 

Auditing (UK and Ireland). Those standards require us to comply with the Auditing 

Practices Board’s (APB’s) Ethical Standards for Auditors. 

Scope of the audit of the financial statements 

An audit involves obtaining evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the 

financial statements sufficient to give reasonable assurance that the financial 

This includes an assessment of: whether the accounting policies are appropriate 

to the Parent Company’s circumstances and have been consistently applied and 

adequately disclosed; the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates 

made by the Directors; and the overall presentation of the financial statements. 

In addition, we read all the financial and non-financial information in the annual 

report to identify material inconsistencies with the audited financial statements. 

Opinion on accounts 

In our opinion the Parent Company financial statements: 

–  give a true and fair view of the state of the Company’s affairs as at 

31 December 2012; 

–  have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally 

Accepted Accounting Practice; and 

–  have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies 

Act 2006. 

statements are free from material misstatement, whether caused by fraud or error. 

We have reported separately on the Group financial statements of Smith & 

Nephew plc for the year ended 31 December 2012. 

If we become aware of any apparent material misstatements or inconsistencies 

20 February 2013 

we consider the implications for our report. 

Les Clifford (Senior statutory auditor) 

for and on behalf of Ernst & Young LLP, Statutory Auditor 

London 

Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
139

Opinion on other matters prescribed by the 
Companies Act 2006 
In our opinion: 

–  the part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited has been properly 

prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 2006; and 

–  the information given in the Directors’ Report for the financial year for which the 
financial statements are prepared is consistent with the Parent Company 
financial statements. 

Matters on which we are required to report 
by exception 
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the 
Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion: 

–  adequate accounting records have not been kept by the Parent Company, 
or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not 
visited by us; or 

–  the Parent Company financial statements and the part of the Directors’ 

Remuneration Report to be audited are not in agreement with the accounting 
records and returns; or 

–  certain disclosures of Directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or 

–  we have not received all the information and explanations we require 

for our audit. 

Other matter 
We have reported separately on the Group financial statements of Smith & 
Nephew plc for the year ended 31 December 2012. 

Les Clifford (Senior statutory auditor) 
for and on behalf of Ernst & Young LLP, Statutory Auditor 
London 
20 February 2013 

Notes to the Group accounts continued 

Independent auditor’s report for the Company

24 Other Notes to the accounts continued 

24.3 Principal subsidiary undertakings 

The information provided below is given for principal trading and manufacturing subsidiary undertakings, all of which are 100% owned, in accordance with Section 410 of 

the Companies Act 2006. A full list will be appended to Smith & Nephew’s next annual return to Companies House: 

Activity 

Country of operation and incorporation 

Company Name 

United Kingdom: 

Smith & Nephew Healthcare Limited 

Smith & Nephew Medical Limited 

T. J. Smith & Nephew, Limited 

Continental Europe: 

Smith & Nephew GmbH 

Smith & Nephew SA-NV 

Smith & Nephew A/S 

Smith & Nephew Oy 

Smith & Nephew SAS 

Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics GmbH 

Smith & Nephew GmbH 

Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics Hellas SA 

Smith & Nephew Limited 

Smith & Nephew Srl 

Smith & Nephew Nederland CV 

Smith & Nephew A/S 

Smith & Nephew Sp Zoo 

Smith & Nephew Lda 

Smith & Nephew SAU 

Smith & Nephew AB 

Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics AG 

USA: 

Smith & Nephew Inc. 

Africa, Asia, Australasia and Other America:

Smith & Nephew Pty Limited 

Smith & Nephew Inc. 

Smith & Nephew (Alberta) Inc. 

Tenet Medical Engineering Inc. 

Smith & Nephew Medical (Shanghai) Limited 

Smith & Nephew Medical (Suzhou) Limited 

Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics (Beijing) Limited

Smith & Nephew Limited 

Smith & Nephew Healthcare Private Limited 

Smith & Nephew KK 

Smith & Nephew Limited 

Smith & Nephew Healthcare Sdn Berhad 

Smith & Nephew SA de CV 

Smith & Nephew Limited 

Smith & Nephew Inc. 

Smith & Nephew Pte Limited 

Smith & Nephew (Pty) Limited 

Smith & Nephew Limited 

Smith & Nephew FZE 

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

Medical Devices

England & Wales 

England & Wales 

England & Wales 

Austria

Belgium

Denmark

Finland

France

Germany

Germany

Greece

Ireland

Italy

Norway

Poland

Portugal

Spain

Sweden

Netherlands 

Switzerland

United States 

Australia

Canada

Canada

Canada

China

China

China

India

Japan

Korea

Hong Kong

Malaysia

Mexico

New Zealand 

Puerto Rico

Singapore

South Africa 

Thailand

United Arab Emirates 

Independent Auditor’s Report to the members of 
Smith & Nephew plc 
We have audited the parent company financial statements of Smith & Nephew plc 
for the year ended 31 December 2012 which comprise the Parent Company 
balance sheet and the related notes 1 to 10. The financial reporting framework 
that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom 
Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). 

This report is made solely to the Company’s members, as a body, in accordance 
with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been 
undertaken so that we might state to the Company’s members those matters we 
are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the 
fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to 
anyone other than the Company and the Company’s members as a body, for our 
audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed. 

Respective responsibilities of directors and auditor 
As explained more fully in the Directors’ Responsibility Statement set out on page 
89, the Directors are responsible for the preparation of the Parent Company 
financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. Our 
responsibility is to audit and express an opinion on the Parent Company financial 
statements in accordance with applicable law and International Standards on 
Auditing (UK and Ireland). Those standards require us to comply with the Auditing 
Practices Board’s (APB’s) Ethical Standards for Auditors. 

Scope of the audit of the financial statements 
An audit involves obtaining evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the 
financial statements sufficient to give reasonable assurance that the financial 
statements are free from material misstatement, whether caused by fraud or error. 
This includes an assessment of: whether the accounting policies are appropriate 
to the Parent Company’s circumstances and have been consistently applied and 
adequately disclosed; the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates 
made by the Directors; and the overall presentation of the financial statements. 
In addition, we read all the financial and non-financial information in the annual 
report to identify material inconsistencies with the audited financial statements. 
If we become aware of any apparent material misstatements or inconsistencies 
we consider the implications for our report. 

Opinion on accounts 
In our opinion the Parent Company financial statements: 

–  give a true and fair view of the state of the Company’s affairs as at 

31 December 2012; 

–  have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally 

Accepted Accounting Practice; and 

–  have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies 

Act 2006. 

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140

Company balance sheet 

Fixed assets: 

Investments 

Current assets: 

Debtors 

Cash and bank 

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year: 

Borrowings 

Other creditors 

Provisions due in less than one year 

Net current assets 

Total assets less current liabilities 

Creditors: amounts falling due after one year: 

Borrowings 

Total assets less total liabilities 

Capital and reserves 

Equity shareholders’ funds: 

Called up equity share capital 

Share premium account 

Capital reserve 

Treasury shares 

Exchange reserve 

Profit and loss account 

Shareholders’ funds 

Notes

At 31 December  
2012  
$ million 

At 31 December 
2011 
$ million

3

4

7

7

5

6

7

8

8

8

8

8

8

3,597 

2,679 

20 

2,699 

(1) 

(1,871) 

– 

(1,872) 

827 

4,424 

(415) 

4,009 

193 

488 

2,266 

(735) 

(52) 

1,849 

4,009 

3,598 

2,145 

25 

2,170 

(245) 

(1,607)

(5)

(1,857)

313 

3,911

–

3,911 

191 

413 

2,266 

(766)

(52)

1,859 

3,911 

The accounts were approved by the Board and authorised for issue on 20 February 2013 and signed on its behalf by: 

Sir John Buchanan  
Chairman  

Olivier Bohuon 
Chief Executive Officer 

Notes to the Company accounts 

1 Basis of preparation 

presented on pages 92 to 138. 

accounts contain a consolidated cash flow. 

The separate accounts of the Company are presented as required by the Companies Act 2006. The accounts have been prepared under the historical cost 

convention, modified to include revaluation to fair value of certain financial instruments as described below, and in accordance with applicable UK accounting standards. 

As consolidated financial information has been disclosed under IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures, the Company is exempt from FRS 29 Financial Instruments: 

Disclosures. The Group accounts have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union and are 

The Company has taken advantage of the exemption in FRS 8 Related Party Disclosures not to present its related party disclosures as the Group accounts contain these 

disclosures. In addition, the Company has taken advantage of the exemption in FRS 1 Cash Flow Statements not to present its own cash flow statement as the Group 

In applying these policies management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of 

contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the accounts and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Although these estimates 

are based on management’s best knowledge of current events and actions, actual results ultimately may differ from those estimates. 

Transactions in foreign currencies are initially recorded at the exchange rate ruling at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign 

currencies are retranslated at the rate of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. All exchange differences are dealt with in arriving at profit before taxation. 

Deferred taxation is recognised in respect of all timing differences that have originated but not reversed at the balance sheet date where transactions or events have 

occurred at that date that will result in an obligation to pay more, or a right to pay less or to receive more, tax. 

Deferred tax is measured on an undiscounted basis at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the periods in which timing differences are expected to reverse. 

These are based on tax rates and laws substantively enacted at the balance sheet date. 

As permitted by section 408(4) of the Companies Act 2006, the Company has not presented its own profit and loss account. Profit for the year was $167m 

Investments in subsidiaries are stated at cost less provision for impairment. 

Investments represent holdings in subsidiary undertakings. 

The information provided below is given for the principal direct subsidiary undertakings, all of which are 100% owned and, in accordance with Section 410 of the 

Companies Act 2006, a full list will be appended to Smith & Nephew’s next annual return to Companies House. 

Refer to Note 24.3 of the Notes to the Group accounts for the principal trading and manufacturing subsidiary undertakings of the Group. 

2012 

$ million 

3,598 

(1) 

3,597 

2011

$ million

3,598

–

3,598

Activity 

Country of operation 

and incorporation

Holding Company 

Holding Company 

England & Wales

England & Wales

Foreign currencies 

Deferred taxation 

2 Results for the year 

(2011: $166m). 

3 Investments 

Accounting policy 

At 1 January 

Impairment 

At 31 December 

Company Name 

Smith & Nephew UK Limited 

Smith & Nephew (Overseas) Limited 

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Company balance sheet 

Notes to the Company accounts 

141

Fixed assets: 

Investments 

Current assets: 

Debtors 

Cash and bank 

Borrowings 

Other creditors 

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year: 

Provisions due in less than one year 

Net current assets 

Total assets less current liabilities 

Creditors: amounts falling due after one year: 

Borrowings 

Total assets less total liabilities 

Capital and reserves 

Equity shareholders’ funds: 

Called up equity share capital 

Share premium account 

Capital reserve 

Treasury shares 

Exchange reserve 

Profit and loss account 

Shareholders’ funds 

Notes

At 31 December  

At 31 December 

2012  

$ million 

2011 

$ million

3

4

7

7

5

6

7

8

8

8

8

8

8

3,597 

2,679 

20 

2,699 

(1,871) 

(1) 

– 

(1,872) 

827 

4,424 

(415) 

4,009 

193 

488 

2,266 

(735) 

(52) 

1,849 

4,009 

3,598 

2,145 

25 

2,170 

(245) 

(1,607)

(5)

(1,857)

313 

3,911

–

3,911 

191 

413 

2,266 

(766)

(52)

1,859 

3,911 

The accounts were approved by the Board and authorised for issue on 20 February 2013 and signed on its behalf by: 

Sir John Buchanan  

Chairman  

Olivier Bohuon 

Chief Executive Officer 

1 Basis of preparation 
The separate accounts of the Company are presented as required by the Companies Act 2006. The accounts have been prepared under the historical cost 
convention, modified to include revaluation to fair value of certain financial instruments as described below, and in accordance with applicable UK accounting standards. 
As consolidated financial information has been disclosed under IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures, the Company is exempt from FRS 29 Financial Instruments: 
Disclosures. The Group accounts have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union and are 
presented on pages 92 to 138. 

The Company has taken advantage of the exemption in FRS 8 Related Party Disclosures not to present its related party disclosures as the Group accounts contain these 
disclosures. In addition, the Company has taken advantage of the exemption in FRS 1 Cash Flow Statements not to present its own cash flow statement as the Group 
accounts contain a consolidated cash flow. 

In applying these policies management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of 
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the accounts and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Although these estimates 
are based on management’s best knowledge of current events and actions, actual results ultimately may differ from those estimates. 

Foreign currencies 
Transactions in foreign currencies are initially recorded at the exchange rate ruling at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign 
currencies are retranslated at the rate of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. All exchange differences are dealt with in arriving at profit before taxation. 

Deferred taxation 
Deferred taxation is recognised in respect of all timing differences that have originated but not reversed at the balance sheet date where transactions or events have 
occurred at that date that will result in an obligation to pay more, or a right to pay less or to receive more, tax. 

Deferred tax is measured on an undiscounted basis at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the periods in which timing differences are expected to reverse. 
These are based on tax rates and laws substantively enacted at the balance sheet date. 

2 Results for the year 
As permitted by section 408(4) of the Companies Act 2006, the Company has not presented its own profit and loss account. Profit for the year was $167m 
(2011: $166m). 

3 Investments 
Accounting policy 
Investments in subsidiaries are stated at cost less provision for impairment. 

At 1 January 

Impairment 

At 31 December 

2012 
$ million 

3,598 

(1) 

3,597 

2011
$ million

3,598

–

3,598

Investments represent holdings in subsidiary undertakings. 

The information provided below is given for the principal direct subsidiary undertakings, all of which are 100% owned and, in accordance with Section 410 of the 
Companies Act 2006, a full list will be appended to Smith & Nephew’s next annual return to Companies House. 

Company Name 

Smith & Nephew UK Limited 

Smith & Nephew (Overseas) Limited 

Activity 

Country of operation 
and incorporation

Holding Company 

Holding Company 

England & Wales

England & Wales

Refer to Note 24.3 of the Notes to the Group accounts for the principal trading and manufacturing subsidiary undertakings of the Group. 

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142

Notes to the Company accounts continued

4 Debtors 

Amounts falling due within one year: 

Amounts owed by subsidiary undertakings 

Prepayments and accrued income 

Current asset derivatives – forward foreign exchange contracts 

Current asset derivatives – currency swaps 

Current taxation 

5 Other creditors  

Amounts falling due within one year: 

Amounts owed to subsidiary undertakings 

Other creditors 

Current liability derivatives – forward foreign exchange contracts 

2012 
$ million 

2,628 

7 

20 

2 

22 

2011
$ million

2,113

5

25

–

2

2,679 

2,145

2012 
$ million 

1,832 

19 

20 

1,871 

2011
$ million

1,574 

8 

25 

1,607 

8 Equity and reserves 

Share

Capital

$ million

Share

Premium

$ million

Capital

Reserves

$ million

Treasury

Shares

$ million

Exchange 

reserves 

$ million 

191

413

2,266

(766)

(52) 

1,859 

3,911

At 1 January 

Attributable profit for the year 

Equity dividends paid in the year 

Share-based payments recognised 

Cost of shares transferred to beneficiaries

New shares issued on exercise of share options 

Treasury shares purchased 

At 31 December 

–

–

–

–

2

–

–

–

–

–

–

75

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

31

193

488

2,266

(735)

(52) 

1,849 

4,009

3,911 

Further information on the share capital of the Company can be found in Note 20 of the Notes to the Group Accounts. 

The total distributable reserves of the Company are $1,062m (2011 – $1,041m). In accordance with the exemption permitted by Section 408 of the Companies Act 2006, 

the Company has not presented its own profit and loss account. The attributable profit for the year dealt with in the accounts of the Company is $167m (2011 – $166m). 

Fees paid to Ernst & Young LLP for audit and non-audit services to the Company itself are not disclosed in the individual accounts because group financial 

statements are prepared which are required to disclose such fees on a consolidated basis. The fees for the consolidated Group are disclosed in Note 3 of the 

2012

2011

Profit and 

loss 

 account 

$ million 

Total

 share-

holders’

 funds

$ million

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

167 

(186) 

34 

(25) 

– 

– 

167

(186)

34

6

77

–

Total

 share-

holders’

 funds

$ million

3,843 

166 

(146)

30 

7

17

(6)

6 Provisions due in less than one year 
During quarter four of 2011, a provision of $5m was established by Smith & Nephew plc in connection with the previously disclosed investigation by the US Securities and 
Exchange Commission (‘SEC’) into potential violations of the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in the medical devices industry. On 6 February 2012, Smith & Nephew 
announced that it had reached settlement with the SEC in connection with this matter. Smith & Nephew committed to pay slightly less than $23m in fines and profit 
disgorgement, maintain an enhanced compliance programme, and appoint an independent monitor for at least 18 months to review and report on its compliance 
programme. Of this total amount of slightly less than $23m, $5.4m specifically relates to profit disgorgement imposed by the SEC on Smith & Nephew plc. 

The Company operates a number of equity-settled executive and employee share plans. For all grants of share options and awards, the fair value as at the date of grant 

is calculated using an appropriate option pricing model and the corresponding expense is recognised over the vesting period. Subsidiary companies are recharged 

for the fair value of share options that relate to their employees. 

The disclosure relating to the Company is detailed in Note 24.1 of the Notes to the Group accounts. 

7 Cash and borrowings 

Accounting policy 

Financial instruments 

Currency swaps are used to match foreign currency net assets with foreign currency liabilities. They are initially recorded at fair value and then for reporting purposes 
remeasured to fair value at exchange rates and interest rates at subsequent balance sheet dates. 

Changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments are recognised in the profit and loss account as they arise.  

The Company has given guarantees to banks to support liabilities under foreign exchange and other contracts and cross guarantees to support overdrafts. Such 

guarantees are not considered to be liabilities as all subsidiary undertakings are trading as going concerns. 

The Company operated defined benefit pension plans in 2004 but at the end of 2005 its pension plan obligations were transferred to Smith & Nephew UK Limited. 

The Company has provided guarantees to the Trustees of the pension plans to support future amounts due from participating employers (see Note 19 of the Notes to 

the Group Accounts). 

Bank loans and overdrafts due within one year or on demand 

Bank loans due after one year 

Borrowings  

Cash and bank 

Debit balance on derivatives – currency swaps

Net debt 

2012 
$ million 

2011
$ million

1 

415 

416 

(20) 

(2) 

394 

245 

–

245 

(25)

–

220 

All currency swaps are stated at fair value. Gross US Dollar equivalents of $175m (2011 – $112m) receivable and $173m (2011 – $112m) payable have been netted. 
Currency swaps comprise foreign exchange swaps and were used in 2012 and 2011 to hedge intragroup loans. 

Notes to the Group Accounts. 

9 Share-based payments 

10 Contingencies 

Guarantees in respect of subsidiary undertakings 

2012 

$ million 

37 

2011

$ million

42

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Company accounts continued

4 Debtors 

Amounts falling due within one year: 

Amounts owed by subsidiary undertakings 

Prepayments and accrued income 

Current asset derivatives – forward foreign exchange contracts 

Current asset derivatives – currency swaps 

Current taxation 

5 Other creditors  

Amounts falling due within one year: 

Amounts owed to subsidiary undertakings 

Other creditors 

Current liability derivatives – forward foreign exchange contracts 

7 Cash and borrowings 

Accounting policy 

Financial instruments 

Bank loans and overdrafts due within one year or on demand 

Bank loans due after one year 

Borrowings  

Cash and bank 

Net debt 

Debit balance on derivatives – currency swaps

6 Provisions due in less than one year 

During quarter four of 2011, a provision of $5m was established by Smith & Nephew plc in connection with the previously disclosed investigation by the US Securities and 

Exchange Commission (‘SEC’) into potential violations of the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in the medical devices industry. On 6 February 2012, Smith & Nephew 

announced that it had reached settlement with the SEC in connection with this matter. Smith & Nephew committed to pay slightly less than $23m in fines and profit 

disgorgement, maintain an enhanced compliance programme, and appoint an independent monitor for at least 18 months to review and report on its compliance 

programme. Of this total amount of slightly less than $23m, $5.4m specifically relates to profit disgorgement imposed by the SEC on Smith & Nephew plc. 

Currency swaps are used to match foreign currency net assets with foreign currency liabilities. They are initially recorded at fair value and then for reporting purposes 

remeasured to fair value at exchange rates and interest rates at subsequent balance sheet dates. 

Changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments are recognised in the profit and loss account as they arise.  

All currency swaps are stated at fair value. Gross US Dollar equivalents of $175m (2011 – $112m) receivable and $173m (2011 – $112m) payable have been netted. 

Currency swaps comprise foreign exchange swaps and were used in 2012 and 2011 to hedge intragroup loans. 

2,679 

2,145

2012 

$ million 

2,628 

7 

20 

2 

22 

2012 

$ million 

1,832 

19 

20 

1,871 

2011

$ million

2,113

5

25

–

2

2011

$ million

1,574 

8 

25 

1,607 

2012 

$ million 

2011

$ million

1 

415 

416 

(20) 

(2) 

394 

245 

245 

(25)

–

–

220 

143

2012

2011

Total
 share-
holders’
 funds
$ million

3,843 

166 

(146)

30 

7

17

(6)

Share
Capital
$ million

Share
Premium
$ million

Capital
Reserves
$ million

Treasury
Shares
$ million

Exchange 
reserves 
$ million 

Profit and 
loss 
 account 
$ million 

Total
 share-
holders’
 funds
$ million

191

413

2,266

(766)

(52) 

1,859 

3,911

–

–

–

–

2

–

193

–

–

–

–

75

–

488

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

31

–

–

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

167 

(186) 

34 

(25) 

– 

– 

167

(186)

34

6

77

–

2,266

(735)

(52) 

1,849 

4,009

3,911 

8 Equity and reserves 

At 1 January 

Attributable profit for the year 

Equity dividends paid in the year 

Share-based payments recognised 

Cost of shares transferred to beneficiaries

New shares issued on exercise of share options 

Treasury shares purchased 

At 31 December 

Further information on the share capital of the Company can be found in Note 20 of the Notes to the Group Accounts. 

The total distributable reserves of the Company are $1,062m (2011 – $1,041m). In accordance with the exemption permitted by Section 408 of the Companies Act 2006, 
the Company has not presented its own profit and loss account. The attributable profit for the year dealt with in the accounts of the Company is $167m (2011 – $166m). 

Fees paid to Ernst & Young LLP for audit and non-audit services to the Company itself are not disclosed in the individual accounts because group financial 
statements are prepared which are required to disclose such fees on a consolidated basis. The fees for the consolidated Group are disclosed in Note 3 of the 
Notes to the Group Accounts. 

9 Share-based payments 
The Company operates a number of equity-settled executive and employee share plans. For all grants of share options and awards, the fair value as at the date of grant 
is calculated using an appropriate option pricing model and the corresponding expense is recognised over the vesting period. Subsidiary companies are recharged 
for the fair value of share options that relate to their employees. 

The disclosure relating to the Company is detailed in Note 24.1 of the Notes to the Group accounts. 

10 Contingencies 

Guarantees in respect of subsidiary undertakings 

2012 
$ million 

37 

2011
$ million

42

The Company has given guarantees to banks to support liabilities under foreign exchange and other contracts and cross guarantees to support overdrafts. Such 
guarantees are not considered to be liabilities as all subsidiary undertakings are trading as going concerns. 

The Company operated defined benefit pension plans in 2004 but at the end of 2005 its pension plan obligations were transferred to Smith & Nephew UK Limited. 
The Company has provided guarantees to the Trustees of the pension plans to support future amounts due from participating employers (see Note 19 of the Notes to 
the Group Accounts). 

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144

Group information  

Business overview and Group history 
Smith & Nephew’s operations are organised into two primary divisions that operate globally: Advanced Surgical Devices and Advanced Wound Management. 

Contractual obligations 

Contractual obligations at 31 December 2012 were as follows:  

The Group has a history dating back over 150 years to the family enterprise of Thomas James Smith who opened a small pharmacy in Hull, UK in 1856. Following his 
death in 1896, his nephew Horatio Nelson Smith took over the management of the business. 

By the late 1990s, Smith & Nephew had expanded into being a diverse healthcare conglomerate with operations across the globe, producing various medical devices, 
personal care products and traditional and advanced wound care treatments. In 1998, Smith & Nephew announced a major restructuring to focus management attention 
and investment on three global business units – advanced wound management, endoscopy and orthopaedics – which offered high growth and margin opportunities. 
In 2011, the Endoscopy and Orthopaedics businesses were brought together to create an Advanced Surgical Devices division. 

Smith & Nephew was incorporated and listed on the London Stock Exchange in 1937 and in 1999 the Group was also listed on the New York Stock Exchange. In 2001, 
Smith & Nephew became a constituent member of the FTSE-100 index in the UK. This means that Smith & Nephew is included in the top 100 companies traded on the 
London Stock Exchange measured in terms of market capitalisation. 

Today, Smith & Nephew is a public limited company incorporated and headquartered in the UK and carries out business around the world. 

Property, plant and equipment 
The table below summarises the main properties which the Group uses and their approximate areas. 

Debt obligations 

Finance lease obligations 

Operating lease obligations 

Retirement benefit obligation 

Purchase obligations 

Capital expenditure 

Other 

Total

$ million

Less than

1 year

$ million

1-3 years 

$ million 

3-5 years

$ million

More than

5 years

$ million

Payments due by period

452

16

127

62

–

8

18

683

36

2

45

62

–

8

10

163

416 

4 

55 

– 

– 

– 

8 

483 

23

–

4

–

–

–

–

27

–

6

4

–

–

–

–

10

Group head office in London, UK 

Group research facility in York, UK 

Advanced Surgical Devices headquarters in Andover, Massachusetts, US

Advanced Wound Management headquarters and manufacturing facility in Hull, UK

Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing facilities in Memphis, Tennessee, US

Advanced Surgical Devices distribution facility in Memphis, Tennessee, US

Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing facility in Aarau, Switzerland

Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing facility in Beijing, China 

Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing and warehouse facility in Warwick, UK

Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing and warehouse facility in Tuttlingen, Germany

Advanced Surgical Devices distribution facility and European headquarters in Baar, Switzerland

Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing facility in Mansfield, Massachusetts, US

Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing facility in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, US

Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing facility in Calgary, Canada 

Advanced Wound Management manufacturing facility in Gilberdyke, UK

Advanced Wound Management manufacturing facility in Suzhou, China

Advanced Wound Management manufacturing facility in Fort Saskatchewan, Canada

Advanced Wound Management US headquarters in St. Petersburg, Florida, US

Healthpoint headquarters and laboratory space, Texas, US 

Approximate area 
(Square feet 000’s)

15

84

144

439

971

210

121

192

90

64

73

98

155

17

51

283

76

44

79

The Group Global Operations strategy includes ongoing assessment of the optimal facility footprint. The Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing facilities in Memphis, 
Tennessee are largely freehold, a portion of Tuttlingen and the Advanced Wound Management facilities in Hull and Gilberdyke are freehold while other principal locations 
are leasehold. The Group has freehold and leasehold interests in real estate in other countries throughout the world, but no other is individually significant to the Group. 
Where required, the appropriate governmental authorities have approved the facilities. 

Other contractual obligations represent $10m of foreign exchange contracts and $8m of acquisition consideration. Provisions that do not relate to contractual obligations 

are not included in the above table. 

The agreed contributions for 2013 in respect of the Group’s defined benefits plans are: $39m for the UK (including $30m of supplementary payments), $17m for the US 

plan and $6m for other funded defined benefit plans. The table above does not include amounts payable in respect of 2014 and beyond as these are subject to future 

agreement and amounts cannot be reasonably estimated. 

There are a number of agreements that take effect, alter or terminate upon a change in control of the Company or the Group following a takeover, such as bank loan 

agreements and Company share plans. None of these are deemed to be significant in terms of their potential impact on the business of the Group as a whole. In addition, 

there are service contracts between the Company and its Executive Directors which provide for the automatic payment of a bonus following loss of office or employment 

occurring because of a successful takeover bid. Further details are set out on page 78. 

The Company does not have contracts or other arrangements which individually are essential to the business. 

Off-balance sheet arrangements 

Management believes that the Group does not have any off-balance sheet arrangements, as defined by the SEC in item 5E of Form 20-F, that have or are reasonably 

likely to have a current or future effect on the Group’s financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital 

expenditures or capital resources that is material to investors. 

Related party transactions 

over the last three financial years. 

Except for transactions with associates (see Note 24.2 of Notes to the Group Accounts), no other related party had material transactions or loans with Smith & Nephew 

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Group information  

Business overview and Group history 

Smith & Nephew’s operations are organised into two primary divisions that operate globally: Advanced Surgical Devices and Advanced Wound Management. 

The Group has a history dating back over 150 years to the family enterprise of Thomas James Smith who opened a small pharmacy in Hull, UK in 1856. Following his 

death in 1896, his nephew Horatio Nelson Smith took over the management of the business. 

By the late 1990s, Smith & Nephew had expanded into being a diverse healthcare conglomerate with operations across the globe, producing various medical devices, 

personal care products and traditional and advanced wound care treatments. In 1998, Smith & Nephew announced a major restructuring to focus management attention 

and investment on three global business units – advanced wound management, endoscopy and orthopaedics – which offered high growth and margin opportunities. 

In 2011, the Endoscopy and Orthopaedics businesses were brought together to create an Advanced Surgical Devices division. 

Smith & Nephew was incorporated and listed on the London Stock Exchange in 1937 and in 1999 the Group was also listed on the New York Stock Exchange. In 2001, 

Smith & Nephew became a constituent member of the FTSE-100 index in the UK. This means that Smith & Nephew is included in the top 100 companies traded on the 

London Stock Exchange measured in terms of market capitalisation. 

Today, Smith & Nephew is a public limited company incorporated and headquartered in the UK and carries out business around the world. 

Property, plant and equipment 

The table below summarises the main properties which the Group uses and their approximate areas. 

Group head office in London, UK 

Group research facility in York, UK 

Advanced Surgical Devices headquarters in Andover, Massachusetts, US

Advanced Wound Management headquarters and manufacturing facility in Hull, UK

Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing facilities in Memphis, Tennessee, US

Advanced Surgical Devices distribution facility in Memphis, Tennessee, US

Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing facility in Aarau, Switzerland

Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing facility in Beijing, China 

Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing and warehouse facility in Warwick, UK

Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing and warehouse facility in Tuttlingen, Germany

Advanced Surgical Devices distribution facility and European headquarters in Baar, Switzerland

Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing facility in Mansfield, Massachusetts, US

Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing facility in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, US

Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing facility in Calgary, Canada 

Advanced Wound Management manufacturing facility in Gilberdyke, UK

Advanced Wound Management manufacturing facility in Suzhou, China

Advanced Wound Management manufacturing facility in Fort Saskatchewan, Canada

Advanced Wound Management US headquarters in St. Petersburg, Florida, US

Healthpoint headquarters and laboratory space, Texas, US 

Approximate area 

(Square feet 000’s)

15

84

144

439

971

210

121

192

90

64

73

98

155

17

51

283

76

44

79

The Group Global Operations strategy includes ongoing assessment of the optimal facility footprint. The Advanced Surgical Devices manufacturing facilities in Memphis, 

Tennessee are largely freehold, a portion of Tuttlingen and the Advanced Wound Management facilities in Hull and Gilberdyke are freehold while other principal locations 

are leasehold. The Group has freehold and leasehold interests in real estate in other countries throughout the world, but no other is individually significant to the Group. 

Where required, the appropriate governmental authorities have approved the facilities. 

145

Contractual obligations 
Contractual obligations at 31 December 2012 were as follows:  

Debt obligations 

Finance lease obligations 

Operating lease obligations 

Retirement benefit obligation 

Purchase obligations 

Capital expenditure 

Other 

Total
$ million

Less than
1 year
$ million

1-3 years 
$ million 

3-5 years
$ million

More than
5 years
$ million

Payments due by period

452

16

127

62

–

8

18

683

36

2

45

62

–

8

10

163

416 

4 

55 

– 

– 

– 

8 

483 

–

4

23

–

–

–

–

27

–

6

4

–

–

–

–

10

Other contractual obligations represent $10m of foreign exchange contracts and $8m of acquisition consideration. Provisions that do not relate to contractual obligations 
are not included in the above table. 

The agreed contributions for 2013 in respect of the Group’s defined benefits plans are: $39m for the UK (including $30m of supplementary payments), $17m for the US 
plan and $6m for other funded defined benefit plans. The table above does not include amounts payable in respect of 2014 and beyond as these are subject to future 
agreement and amounts cannot be reasonably estimated. 

There are a number of agreements that take effect, alter or terminate upon a change in control of the Company or the Group following a takeover, such as bank loan 
agreements and Company share plans. None of these are deemed to be significant in terms of their potential impact on the business of the Group as a whole. In addition, 
there are service contracts between the Company and its Executive Directors which provide for the automatic payment of a bonus following loss of office or employment 
occurring because of a successful takeover bid. Further details are set out on page 78. 

The Company does not have contracts or other arrangements which individually are essential to the business. 

Off-balance sheet arrangements 
Management believes that the Group does not have any off-balance sheet arrangements, as defined by the SEC in item 5E of Form 20-F, that have or are reasonably 
likely to have a current or future effect on the Group’s financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital 
expenditures or capital resources that is material to investors. 

Related party transactions 
Except for transactions with associates (see Note 24.2 of Notes to the Group Accounts), no other related party had material transactions or loans with Smith & Nephew 
over the last three financial years. 

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146

Group information continued

Risk factors 
There are known and unknown risks and uncertainties relating to Smith & Nephew’s business. The factors listed below could cause the Group’s business, 
financial position and results of operations to differ materially and adversely from expected and historical levels. In addition, other factors not listed here that Smith & 
Nephew cannot presently identify or does not believe to be equally significant could also materially adversely affect Smith & Nephew’s business, financial position 
or results of operations. 

Highly competitive markets 
The Group’s business segments compete across a diverse range of geographic and product markets. Each market in which the business segments operate contains 
a number of different competitors, including specialised and international corporations. Significant product innovations, technical advances or the intensification of price 
competition by competitors could adversely affect the Group’s operating results. 

Some of these competitors may have greater financial, marketing and other resources than Smith & Nephew. These competitors may be able to initiate technological 
advances in the field, deliver products on more attractive terms, more aggressively market their products or invest larger amounts of capital and research and 
development into their businesses. 

There is a possibility of further consolidation of competitors, which could adversely affect the Group’s ability to compete with larger companies due to insufficient financial 
resources. If any of the Group’s businesses were to lose market share or achieve lower than expected sales growth, there could be a disproportionate adverse impact 
on the Group’s share price and its strategic options. 

Competition exists among healthcare providers to gain patients on the basis of quality, service and price. There has been some consolidation in the Group’s customer 
base and this trend is expected to continue. Increased competition and unanticipated actions by competitors or customers could lead to downward pressure on 
prices and/or a decline in market share in any of the Group’s business areas, which could adversely affect Smith & Nephew’s results of operations and hinder its 
growth potential. 

Continual development and introduction of new products  
The medical devices industry has a rapid rate of new product introduction. In order to remain competitive, each of the Group’s business segments must continue to 
develop innovative products that satisfy customer needs and preferences or provide cost or other advantages. Developing new products is a costly, lengthy and uncertain 
process. A potential product may not be brought to market or not succeed in the market for any number of reasons, including failure to work optimally, failure to receive 
regulatory approval, failure to be cost-competitive, infringement of patents or other intellectual property rights and changes in consumer demand. The Group’s products 
and technologies are also subject to marketing attack by competitors. Furthermore, new products that are developed and marketed by the Group’s competitors may affect 
price levels in the various markets in which the Group’s business segments operate. If the Group’s new products do not remain competitive with those of competitors, the 
Group’s revenue could decline. 

The Group maintains reserves for excess and obsolete inventory resulting from the potential inability to sell its products at prices in excess of current carrying costs. 
Marketplace changes resulting from the introduction of new products or surgical procedures may cause some of the Group’s products to become obsolete. The Group 
makes estimates regarding the future recoverability of the costs of these products and records a provision for excess and obsolete inventories based on historical 
experience, expiration of sterilisation dates and expected future trends. If actual product life cycles, product demand or acceptance of new product introductions are less 
favourable than projected by management, additional inventory write-downs may be required. 

Dependence on government and other funding 
In most established markets throughout the world, expenditure on medical devices is ultimately controlled to a large extent by governments. Funds may be made 
available or withdrawn from healthcare budgets depending on government policy. The Group is therefore largely dependent on future governments providing increased 
funds commensurate with the increased demand arising from demographic trends. 

Pricing of the Group’s products is largely governed in most established markets by governmental reimbursement authorities. Initiatives sponsored by government 
agencies, legislative bodies and the private sector to limit the growth of healthcare costs, including price regulation, excise taxes and competitive pricing, are ongoing in 
markets where the Group has operations. This control may be exercised by determining prices for an individual product or for an entire procedure. The Group is exposed 
to changes in reimbursement policy, tax policy and pricing which may have an adverse impact on sales and operating profit. In particular, changes to the healthcare 
legislation in the US are due to impose significant taxes on medical device manufacturers from 2013. There may be an increased risk of adverse changes to government 
funding policies arising from the deterioration in macro-economic conditions in some of the Group’s markets. 

The Group must adhere to the rules laid down by government agencies that fund or regulate healthcare, including extensive and complex rules in the US. Failure to do so 
could result in fines or loss of future funding. 

World economic conditions 
Demand for the Group’s products is driven by demographic trends, including the ageing population and the incidence of osteoporosis and obesity. Supply of, use of and 
payment for the Group’s products are also influenced by world economic conditions which could place increased pressure on demand and pricing, adversely impacting 
the Group’s ability to deliver revenue and margin growth. The conditions could favour larger, better capitalised groups, with higher market shares and margins. As a 
consequence, the Group’s prosperity is linked to general economic conditions and there is a risk of deterioration of the Group’s performance and finances during adverse 
macro-economic conditions. 

During 2012, economic conditions worldwide continued to create several challenges for the Group, including deferrals of joint replacement procedures, heightened 
pricing pressure, significant declines in capital equipment expenditures at hospitals and increased uncertainty over the collectability of European government debt, 
particularly those in certain parts of southern Europe. These factors tempered the overall growth of the Group’s global markets and could have an increased impact on 
growth in the future. 

015914_Smith&Nephew_AR12_p89-164.indd   146

25/02/2013   11:45

The Group operates on a worldwide basis and has distribution channels, purchasing agents and buying entities in over 90 countries. Political upheaval in some of those 

countries or in surrounding regions may impact the Group’s results of operations. Political changes in a country could prevent the Group from receiving remittances of 

profit from a member of the Group located in that country or from selling its products or investments in that country. Furthermore, changes in government policy regarding 

import quotas, taxation or other matters could adversely affect the Group’s turnover and operating profit. War, terrorist activities or other conflict could also adversely 

Smith & Nephew’s results of operations are affected by transactional exchange rate movements in that they are subject to exposures arising from revenue in a currency 

different from the related costs and expenses. The Group’s manufacturing cost base is situated principally in the US, the UK, China and Switzerland, from which finished 

products are exported to the Group’s selling operations worldwide. Thus, the Group is exposed to fluctuations in exchange rates between the US Dollar, Sterling and 

Swiss Franc and the currency of the Group’s selling operations, particularly the Euro, Australian Dollar and Japanese Yen. If the US Dollar, Sterling or Swiss Franc should 

strengthen against the Euro, Australian Dollar and the Japanese Yen, the Group’s trading margin could be adversely affected. 

The Group manages the impact of exchange rate movements on sales and cost of goods sold by a policy of transacting forward foreign currency commitments when 

firm purchase orders are placed. In addition, the Group’s policy is for forecast transactions to be covered between 50% and 90% for up to one year. 

The Group uses the US Dollar as its reporting currency and the US Dollar is the functional currency of Smith & Nephew plc. The Group’s revenues, profits and earnings 

are also affected by exchange rate movements on the translation of results of operations in foreign subsidiaries for financial reporting purposes. See ‘Financial position, 

Political uncertainties 

impact the Group. 

Currency fluctuations 

liquidity and capital resources’ on page 50. 

Manufacturing and supply 

The Group’s manufacturing production is concentrated at 12 main facilities in Memphis, Mansfield and Oklahoma City in the US, Hull, Warwick and Gilberdyke in the 

UK, Aarau in Switzerland, Tuttlingen in Germany, Fort Saskatchewan and Calgary in Canada and Suzhou and Beijing in China. If major physical disruption took place at 

any of these sites, it could adversely affect the results of operations. Physical loss and consequential loss insurance is carried to cover such risks but is subject to limits 

and deductibles and may not be sufficient to cover catastrophic loss. Management of orthopaedic inventory is complex, particularly forecasting and production planning. 

There is a risk that failures in operational execution could lead to excess inventory or individual product shortages. 

Each of the business segments is reliant on certain key suppliers of raw materials, components, finished products and packaging materials. These suppliers must provide 

the materials and perform the activities to the Group’s standard of quality requirements. If any of these suppliers is unable to meet the Group’s needs, compromises on 

standards of quality or substantially increases its prices, Smith & Nephew would need to seek alternative suppliers. There can be no assurance that alternative suppliers 

would provide the necessary raw materials on favourable or cost-effective terms at the desired quality. Consequently, the Group may be forced to pay higher prices to 

obtain raw materials, which it may not be able to pass on to its customers in the form of increased prices for its finished products. In addition, some of the raw materials 

used may become unavailable, and there can be no assurance that the Group will be able to obtain suitable and cost-effective substitutes. Any interruption of supply 

caused by these or other factors could negatively impact Smith & Nephew’s revenue and operating profit. 

The Group uses a variety of information systems to conduct its manufacturing, supply and selling operations. An unrecoverable fault in one of these systems could disrupt 

trading in certain markets and locations. 

transfers, there is a risk of disruption to supply. 

The Group is in the process of outsourcing to third parties or relocating to lower cost countries certain of its manufacturing and other processes. As a result of these 

Attracting and retaining key personnel 

The Group’s continued development depends on its ability to hire and retain highly-skilled personnel with particular expertise. This is critical, particularly in general 

management, research, new product development and in the sales forces. If Smith & Nephew is unable to retain key personnel in general management, research and 

new product development or if its largest sales forces suffer disruption or upheaval, its sales and operating profit would be adversely affected. Additionally, if the Group 

is unable to recruit, hire, develop and retain a talented, competitive workforce, it may not be able to meet its strategic business objectives. 

Proprietary rights and patents 

Due to the technological nature of medical devices and the Group’s emphasis on serving its customers with innovative products, the Group has been subject to patent 

infringement claims and is subject to the potential for additional claims. 

Claims asserted by third parties regarding infringement of their intellectual property rights, if successful, could require the Group to expend time and significant resources 

to pay damages, develop non-infringing products or obtain licences to the products which are the subject of such litigation, thereby affecting the Group’s growth and 

profitability. Smith & Nephew attempts to protect its intellectual property and regularly opposes third party patents and trademarks where appropriate in those areas that 

might conflict with the Group’s business interests. If Smith & Nephew fails to protect and enforce its intellectual property rights successfully, its competitive position could 

suffer, which could harm its results of operations. 

Product liability claims and loss of reputation 

The development, manufacture and sale of medical devices entail risk of product liability claims or recalls. Design and manufacturing defects with respect to products 

sold by the Group or by companies it has acquired could damage, or impair the repair of, body functions. The Group may become subject to liability, which could be 

substantial, because of actual or alleged defects in its products. In addition, product defects could lead to the need to recall from the market existing products, which 

may be costly and harmful to the Group’s reputation. 

There can be no assurance that customers, particularly in the US, the Group’s largest geographical market, will not bring product liability or related claims that would have 

a material adverse effect on the Group’s financial position or results of operations in the future, or that the Group will be able to resolve such claims within insurance limits. 

Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
Group information continued

Risk factors 

or results of operations. 

There are known and unknown risks and uncertainties relating to Smith & Nephew’s business. The factors listed below could cause the Group’s business, 

financial position and results of operations to differ materially and adversely from expected and historical levels. In addition, other factors not listed here that Smith & 

Nephew cannot presently identify or does not believe to be equally significant could also materially adversely affect Smith & Nephew’s business, financial position 

Highly competitive markets 

The Group’s business segments compete across a diverse range of geographic and product markets. Each market in which the business segments operate contains 

a number of different competitors, including specialised and international corporations. Significant product innovations, technical advances or the intensification of price 

competition by competitors could adversely affect the Group’s operating results. 

Some of these competitors may have greater financial, marketing and other resources than Smith & Nephew. These competitors may be able to initiate technological 

advances in the field, deliver products on more attractive terms, more aggressively market their products or invest larger amounts of capital and research and 

development into their businesses. 

There is a possibility of further consolidation of competitors, which could adversely affect the Group’s ability to compete with larger companies due to insufficient financial 

resources. If any of the Group’s businesses were to lose market share or achieve lower than expected sales growth, there could be a disproportionate adverse impact 

on the Group’s share price and its strategic options. 

Competition exists among healthcare providers to gain patients on the basis of quality, service and price. There has been some consolidation in the Group’s customer 

base and this trend is expected to continue. Increased competition and unanticipated actions by competitors or customers could lead to downward pressure on 

prices and/or a decline in market share in any of the Group’s business areas, which could adversely affect Smith & Nephew’s results of operations and hinder its 

growth potential. 

Continual development and introduction of new products  

The medical devices industry has a rapid rate of new product introduction. In order to remain competitive, each of the Group’s business segments must continue to 

develop innovative products that satisfy customer needs and preferences or provide cost or other advantages. Developing new products is a costly, lengthy and uncertain 

process. A potential product may not be brought to market or not succeed in the market for any number of reasons, including failure to work optimally, failure to receive 

regulatory approval, failure to be cost-competitive, infringement of patents or other intellectual property rights and changes in consumer demand. The Group’s products 

and technologies are also subject to marketing attack by competitors. Furthermore, new products that are developed and marketed by the Group’s competitors may affect 

price levels in the various markets in which the Group’s business segments operate. If the Group’s new products do not remain competitive with those of competitors, the 

Group’s revenue could decline. 

The Group maintains reserves for excess and obsolete inventory resulting from the potential inability to sell its products at prices in excess of current carrying costs. 

Marketplace changes resulting from the introduction of new products or surgical procedures may cause some of the Group’s products to become obsolete. The Group 

makes estimates regarding the future recoverability of the costs of these products and records a provision for excess and obsolete inventories based on historical 

experience, expiration of sterilisation dates and expected future trends. If actual product life cycles, product demand or acceptance of new product introductions are less 

favourable than projected by management, additional inventory write-downs may be required. 

Dependence on government and other funding 

In most established markets throughout the world, expenditure on medical devices is ultimately controlled to a large extent by governments. Funds may be made 

available or withdrawn from healthcare budgets depending on government policy. The Group is therefore largely dependent on future governments providing increased 

funds commensurate with the increased demand arising from demographic trends. 

Pricing of the Group’s products is largely governed in most established markets by governmental reimbursement authorities. Initiatives sponsored by government 

agencies, legislative bodies and the private sector to limit the growth of healthcare costs, including price regulation, excise taxes and competitive pricing, are ongoing in 

markets where the Group has operations. This control may be exercised by determining prices for an individual product or for an entire procedure. The Group is exposed 

to changes in reimbursement policy, tax policy and pricing which may have an adverse impact on sales and operating profit. In particular, changes to the healthcare 

legislation in the US are due to impose significant taxes on medical device manufacturers from 2013. There may be an increased risk of adverse changes to government 

funding policies arising from the deterioration in macro-economic conditions in some of the Group’s markets. 

The Group must adhere to the rules laid down by government agencies that fund or regulate healthcare, including extensive and complex rules in the US. Failure to do so 

could result in fines or loss of future funding. 

World economic conditions 

Demand for the Group’s products is driven by demographic trends, including the ageing population and the incidence of osteoporosis and obesity. Supply of, use of and 

payment for the Group’s products are also influenced by world economic conditions which could place increased pressure on demand and pricing, adversely impacting 

the Group’s ability to deliver revenue and margin growth. The conditions could favour larger, better capitalised groups, with higher market shares and margins. As a 

consequence, the Group’s prosperity is linked to general economic conditions and there is a risk of deterioration of the Group’s performance and finances during adverse 

macro-economic conditions. 

growth in the future. 

During 2012, economic conditions worldwide continued to create several challenges for the Group, including deferrals of joint replacement procedures, heightened 

pricing pressure, significant declines in capital equipment expenditures at hospitals and increased uncertainty over the collectability of European government debt, 

particularly those in certain parts of southern Europe. These factors tempered the overall growth of the Group’s global markets and could have an increased impact on 

147

Political uncertainties 
The Group operates on a worldwide basis and has distribution channels, purchasing agents and buying entities in over 90 countries. Political upheaval in some of those 
countries or in surrounding regions may impact the Group’s results of operations. Political changes in a country could prevent the Group from receiving remittances of 
profit from a member of the Group located in that country or from selling its products or investments in that country. Furthermore, changes in government policy regarding 
import quotas, taxation or other matters could adversely affect the Group’s turnover and operating profit. War, terrorist activities or other conflict could also adversely 
impact the Group. 

Currency fluctuations 
Smith & Nephew’s results of operations are affected by transactional exchange rate movements in that they are subject to exposures arising from revenue in a currency 
different from the related costs and expenses. The Group’s manufacturing cost base is situated principally in the US, the UK, China and Switzerland, from which finished 
products are exported to the Group’s selling operations worldwide. Thus, the Group is exposed to fluctuations in exchange rates between the US Dollar, Sterling and 
Swiss Franc and the currency of the Group’s selling operations, particularly the Euro, Australian Dollar and Japanese Yen. If the US Dollar, Sterling or Swiss Franc should 
strengthen against the Euro, Australian Dollar and the Japanese Yen, the Group’s trading margin could be adversely affected. 

The Group manages the impact of exchange rate movements on sales and cost of goods sold by a policy of transacting forward foreign currency commitments when 
firm purchase orders are placed. In addition, the Group’s policy is for forecast transactions to be covered between 50% and 90% for up to one year. 

The Group uses the US Dollar as its reporting currency and the US Dollar is the functional currency of Smith & Nephew plc. The Group’s revenues, profits and earnings 
are also affected by exchange rate movements on the translation of results of operations in foreign subsidiaries for financial reporting purposes. See ‘Financial position, 
liquidity and capital resources’ on page 50. 

Manufacturing and supply 
The Group’s manufacturing production is concentrated at 12 main facilities in Memphis, Mansfield and Oklahoma City in the US, Hull, Warwick and Gilberdyke in the 
UK, Aarau in Switzerland, Tuttlingen in Germany, Fort Saskatchewan and Calgary in Canada and Suzhou and Beijing in China. If major physical disruption took place at 
any of these sites, it could adversely affect the results of operations. Physical loss and consequential loss insurance is carried to cover such risks but is subject to limits 
and deductibles and may not be sufficient to cover catastrophic loss. Management of orthopaedic inventory is complex, particularly forecasting and production planning. 
There is a risk that failures in operational execution could lead to excess inventory or individual product shortages. 

Each of the business segments is reliant on certain key suppliers of raw materials, components, finished products and packaging materials. These suppliers must provide 
the materials and perform the activities to the Group’s standard of quality requirements. If any of these suppliers is unable to meet the Group’s needs, compromises on 
standards of quality or substantially increases its prices, Smith & Nephew would need to seek alternative suppliers. There can be no assurance that alternative suppliers 
would provide the necessary raw materials on favourable or cost-effective terms at the desired quality. Consequently, the Group may be forced to pay higher prices to 
obtain raw materials, which it may not be able to pass on to its customers in the form of increased prices for its finished products. In addition, some of the raw materials 
used may become unavailable, and there can be no assurance that the Group will be able to obtain suitable and cost-effective substitutes. Any interruption of supply 
caused by these or other factors could negatively impact Smith & Nephew’s revenue and operating profit. 

The Group uses a variety of information systems to conduct its manufacturing, supply and selling operations. An unrecoverable fault in one of these systems could disrupt 
trading in certain markets and locations. 

The Group is in the process of outsourcing to third parties or relocating to lower cost countries certain of its manufacturing and other processes. As a result of these 
transfers, there is a risk of disruption to supply. 

Attracting and retaining key personnel 
The Group’s continued development depends on its ability to hire and retain highly-skilled personnel with particular expertise. This is critical, particularly in general 
management, research, new product development and in the sales forces. If Smith & Nephew is unable to retain key personnel in general management, research and 
new product development or if its largest sales forces suffer disruption or upheaval, its sales and operating profit would be adversely affected. Additionally, if the Group 
is unable to recruit, hire, develop and retain a talented, competitive workforce, it may not be able to meet its strategic business objectives. 

Proprietary rights and patents 
Due to the technological nature of medical devices and the Group’s emphasis on serving its customers with innovative products, the Group has been subject to patent 
infringement claims and is subject to the potential for additional claims. 

Claims asserted by third parties regarding infringement of their intellectual property rights, if successful, could require the Group to expend time and significant resources 
to pay damages, develop non-infringing products or obtain licences to the products which are the subject of such litigation, thereby affecting the Group’s growth and 
profitability. Smith & Nephew attempts to protect its intellectual property and regularly opposes third party patents and trademarks where appropriate in those areas that 
might conflict with the Group’s business interests. If Smith & Nephew fails to protect and enforce its intellectual property rights successfully, its competitive position could 
suffer, which could harm its results of operations. 

Product liability claims and loss of reputation 
The development, manufacture and sale of medical devices entail risk of product liability claims or recalls. Design and manufacturing defects with respect to products 
sold by the Group or by companies it has acquired could damage, or impair the repair of, body functions. The Group may become subject to liability, which could be 
substantial, because of actual or alleged defects in its products. In addition, product defects could lead to the need to recall from the market existing products, which 
may be costly and harmful to the Group’s reputation. 

There can be no assurance that customers, particularly in the US, the Group’s largest geographical market, will not bring product liability or related claims that would have 
a material adverse effect on the Group’s financial position or results of operations in the future, or that the Group will be able to resolve such claims within insurance limits. 

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148

Group information continued

Regulatory standards and compliance in the healthcare industry 
Business practices in the healthcare industry are subject to regulation and review by various government authorities. In general, the trend in many countries in which the 
Group does business is towards higher expectations and increased enforcement activity by governmental authorities. While the Group is committed to doing business 
with integrity and welcomes the trend to higher standards in the healthcare industry, the Group and other companies in the industry have been subject to investigations 
and other enforcement activity that have incurred and may continue to incur significant expense. See ‘Legal proceedings’ on page 52. Under certain circumstances, if the 
Group were found to have violated the law, its ability to sell its products to certain customers could be restricted. 

Regulatory approval 
The international medical device industry is highly regulated. Regulatory requirements are a major factor in determining whether substances and materials can be 
developed into marketable products and the amount of time and expense that should be allotted to such development. 

National regulatory authorities administer and enforce a complex series of laws and regulations that govern the design, development, approval, manufacture, labelling, 
marketing and sale of healthcare products. They also review data supporting the safety and efficacy of such products. Of particular importance is the requirement in many 
countries that products be authorised or registered prior to manufacture, marketing or sale and that such authorisation or registration be subsequently maintained. The 
major regulatory agencies for Smith & Nephew’s products include the Food and Drug Administration (‘FDA’) in the US, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory 
Agency in the UK, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in Japan and the State Food and Drug Administration in China. At any time, the Group is awaiting a number 
of regulatory approvals which, if not received, could adversely affect results of operations. 

The trend is towards more stringent regulation and higher standards of technical appraisal. Such controls have become increasingly demanding to comply with and 
management believes that this trend will continue.  

Regulatory requirements may also entail inspections for compliance with appropriate standards, including those relating to Quality Management Systems or Good 
Manufacturing Practices regulations. All manufacturing and other significant facilities within the Group are subject to regular internal and external audit for compliance 
with national and Group medical device regulation and policies. 

Payment for medical devices may be governed by reimbursement tariff agencies in a number of countries. Reimbursement rates may be set in response to perceived 
economic value of the devices, based on clinical and other data relating to cost, patient outcomes and comparative effectiveness. They may also be affected by overall 
government budgetary considerations. The Group believes that its emphasis on innovative products and services should contribute to success in this environment. 

Failure to comply with these regulatory requirements could have a number of adverse consequences, including withdrawal of approval to sell a product in a country, 
temporary closure of a manufacturing facility, fines and potential damage to company reputation. 

Failure to make successful acquisitions 
A key element of the Group’s strategy for continued growth is to make acquisitions or alliances to complement its existing business. Failure to identify appropriate 
acquisition targets or failure to conduct adequate due diligence or to integrate them successfully would have an adverse impact on the Group’s competitive position 
and profitability. This could result from the diversion of management resources towards the acquisition or integration process, challenges of integrating organisations 
of different geographic, cultural and ethical backgrounds, as well as the prospect of taking on unexpected or unknown liabilities. In addition, the availability of global capital 
may make financing less attainable or more expensive and could result in the Group failing in its strategic aim of growth by acquisition or alliance. 

Other risk factors 
Smith & Nephew is subject to a number of other risks, which are common to most global medical technology groups and are reviewed as part of the Group’s risk 
management process. 

(i)  Translated at the Bank of England rate on 19 February 2013. 

(ii)  2008 and 2009 Second interim, 2010 to 2012 Final. 

Dividends 

Dividend history 

Smith & Nephew has paid dividends on its Ordinary Shares in every year since 1937. Following the capital restructuring and dividend reduction in 2000 the Group 

adopted a policy of increasing its dividend cover (the ratio of EPSA, as set out in the ‘Selected financial data’, to ordinary dividends declared for the year). This was 

intended to increase the financing capability of the Group for acquisitions and other investments. From 2000 to 2004 the dividend increased in line with inflation and, 

in 2004, dividend cover stood at 4.1 times. Having achieved this level of dividend cover the Board changed its policy, from that of increasing dividends in line with inflation, 

to that of increasing dividends for 2005 and after by 10%. Following the redenomination of the Company’s share capital into US Dollars the Board re-affirmed its policy 

of increasing the dividend by 10% a year in US Dollar terms. 

On 2 August 2012, the Board announced its intention to pursue a progressive dividend policy, with the aim of increasing the US Dollar value of Ordinary dividends over 

time broadly based on the Group’s underlying growth in earnings, while taking into account capital requirements and cash flows.  

From 2013, the Board will review at the time of the full year results, the appropriate level of total annual dividend each year. The Board intends that the interim dividend will 

be set by a formula and will be equivalent to 40% of the total dividend for the previous year. Dividends will continue to be declared in US Dollars with an equivalent amount 

in sterling payable to those shareholders whose registered address is in the UK, or who have validly elected to receive sterling dividends. 

An interim dividend in respect of each fiscal year is normally declared in August and paid in November. A final dividend will be recommended by the Board of Directors 

and paid subject to approval by shareholders at the Company’s Annual General Meeting. 

Future dividends of Smith & Nephew will be dependent upon: future earnings; the future financial condition of the Group; the Board’s dividend policy; and the additional 

factors that might affect the business of the Group set out in ‘Special note regarding forward-looking statements’ and ‘Risk Factors’. 

Dividends per share 

The table below sets out the dividends per Ordinary Share in the last five years. 

Pence per share: 

Final/Second interim (ii) 

US cents per share: 

Final/Second interim (ii) 

Interim 

Total 

Interim 

Total 

2012

2011

2010 

2009

2008

Years ended 31 December

6.811

11.656(i)

18.467

11.000

18.000

29.000

4.639

7.444

12.083

7.333

12.000

19.333

4.233  

6.639  

10.872  

6.667  

10.911  

17.578  

3.650 

6.494 

10.144 

6.067 

9.922 

15.989 

3.194 

6.194 

9.388 

5.511 

9.022 

14.533 

Dividends above include the associated UK tax credit of 10%, but exclude the deduction of withholding taxes. All dividends, up to the second interim dividend for 2005, 

were declared in pence per Ordinary Share and translated into US cents per Ordinary Share at the Noon Buying Rate on the payment date. Since the second interim 

dividend for 2005 all dividends have been declared in US cents per Ordinary Share. 

The 2012 final dividend will be payable on 8 May 2013, subject to shareholder approval. 

In respect of the proposed final dividend for the year ended 31 December 2012 of 16.20 US cents per Ordinary Share, the record date will be 19 April 2013 and the 

payment date will be 8 May 2013. The sterling equivalent per Ordinary Share will be set following the record date. Shareholders may elect to receive their dividend in 

either sterling or US Dollars and the last day for election will be 19 April 2013. The Ordinary Shares will trade ex-dividend on both the London and New York Stock 

Exchanges from 17 April 2013. 

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Group information continued

Regulatory standards and compliance in the healthcare industry 

Business practices in the healthcare industry are subject to regulation and review by various government authorities. In general, the trend in many countries in which the 

Group does business is towards higher expectations and increased enforcement activity by governmental authorities. While the Group is committed to doing business 

with integrity and welcomes the trend to higher standards in the healthcare industry, the Group and other companies in the industry have been subject to investigations 

and other enforcement activity that have incurred and may continue to incur significant expense. See ‘Legal proceedings’ on page 52. Under certain circumstances, if the 

Group were found to have violated the law, its ability to sell its products to certain customers could be restricted. 

Regulatory approval 

The international medical device industry is highly regulated. Regulatory requirements are a major factor in determining whether substances and materials can be 

developed into marketable products and the amount of time and expense that should be allotted to such development. 

National regulatory authorities administer and enforce a complex series of laws and regulations that govern the design, development, approval, manufacture, labelling, 

marketing and sale of healthcare products. They also review data supporting the safety and efficacy of such products. Of particular importance is the requirement in many 

countries that products be authorised or registered prior to manufacture, marketing or sale and that such authorisation or registration be subsequently maintained. The 

major regulatory agencies for Smith & Nephew’s products include the Food and Drug Administration (‘FDA’) in the US, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory 

Agency in the UK, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in Japan and the State Food and Drug Administration in China. At any time, the Group is awaiting a number 

of regulatory approvals which, if not received, could adversely affect results of operations. 

The trend is towards more stringent regulation and higher standards of technical appraisal. Such controls have become increasingly demanding to comply with and 

management believes that this trend will continue.  

Regulatory requirements may also entail inspections for compliance with appropriate standards, including those relating to Quality Management Systems or Good 

Manufacturing Practices regulations. All manufacturing and other significant facilities within the Group are subject to regular internal and external audit for compliance 

with national and Group medical device regulation and policies. 

Payment for medical devices may be governed by reimbursement tariff agencies in a number of countries. Reimbursement rates may be set in response to perceived 

economic value of the devices, based on clinical and other data relating to cost, patient outcomes and comparative effectiveness. They may also be affected by overall 

government budgetary considerations. The Group believes that its emphasis on innovative products and services should contribute to success in this environment. 

Failure to comply with these regulatory requirements could have a number of adverse consequences, including withdrawal of approval to sell a product in a country, 

temporary closure of a manufacturing facility, fines and potential damage to company reputation. 

Failure to make successful acquisitions 

A key element of the Group’s strategy for continued growth is to make acquisitions or alliances to complement its existing business. Failure to identify appropriate 

acquisition targets or failure to conduct adequate due diligence or to integrate them successfully would have an adverse impact on the Group’s competitive position 

and profitability. This could result from the diversion of management resources towards the acquisition or integration process, challenges of integrating organisations 

of different geographic, cultural and ethical backgrounds, as well as the prospect of taking on unexpected or unknown liabilities. In addition, the availability of global capital 

may make financing less attainable or more expensive and could result in the Group failing in its strategic aim of growth by acquisition or alliance. 

Other risk factors 

management process. 

149

Dividends 

Dividend history 
Smith & Nephew has paid dividends on its Ordinary Shares in every year since 1937. Following the capital restructuring and dividend reduction in 2000 the Group 
adopted a policy of increasing its dividend cover (the ratio of EPSA, as set out in the ‘Selected financial data’, to ordinary dividends declared for the year). This was 
intended to increase the financing capability of the Group for acquisitions and other investments. From 2000 to 2004 the dividend increased in line with inflation and, 
in 2004, dividend cover stood at 4.1 times. Having achieved this level of dividend cover the Board changed its policy, from that of increasing dividends in line with inflation, 
to that of increasing dividends for 2005 and after by 10%. Following the redenomination of the Company’s share capital into US Dollars the Board re-affirmed its policy 
of increasing the dividend by 10% a year in US Dollar terms. 

On 2 August 2012, the Board announced its intention to pursue a progressive dividend policy, with the aim of increasing the US Dollar value of Ordinary dividends over 
time broadly based on the Group’s underlying growth in earnings, while taking into account capital requirements and cash flows.  

From 2013, the Board will review at the time of the full year results, the appropriate level of total annual dividend each year. The Board intends that the interim dividend will 
be set by a formula and will be equivalent to 40% of the total dividend for the previous year. Dividends will continue to be declared in US Dollars with an equivalent amount 
in sterling payable to those shareholders whose registered address is in the UK, or who have validly elected to receive sterling dividends. 

An interim dividend in respect of each fiscal year is normally declared in August and paid in November. A final dividend will be recommended by the Board of Directors 
and paid subject to approval by shareholders at the Company’s Annual General Meeting. 

Future dividends of Smith & Nephew will be dependent upon: future earnings; the future financial condition of the Group; the Board’s dividend policy; and the additional 
factors that might affect the business of the Group set out in ‘Special note regarding forward-looking statements’ and ‘Risk Factors’. 

Dividends per share 
The table below sets out the dividends per Ordinary Share in the last five years. 

Pence per share: 

Interim 

Final/Second interim (ii) 

Total 

US cents per share: 

Interim 

Final/Second interim (ii) 

Total 

2012

2011

2010 

2009

2008

Years ended 31 December

6.811

11.656(i)

18.467

11.000

18.000

29.000

4.639

7.444

12.083

7.333

12.000

19.333

4.233  

6.639  

10.872  

6.667  

10.911  

17.578  

3.650 

6.494 

10.144 

6.067 

9.922 

15.989 

3.194 

6.194 

9.388 

5.511 

9.022 

14.533 

Smith & Nephew is subject to a number of other risks, which are common to most global medical technology groups and are reviewed as part of the Group’s risk 

(i)  Translated at the Bank of England rate on 19 February 2013. 

(ii)  2008 and 2009 Second interim, 2010 to 2012 Final. 

Dividends above include the associated UK tax credit of 10%, but exclude the deduction of withholding taxes. All dividends, up to the second interim dividend for 2005, 
were declared in pence per Ordinary Share and translated into US cents per Ordinary Share at the Noon Buying Rate on the payment date. Since the second interim 
dividend for 2005 all dividends have been declared in US cents per Ordinary Share. 

The 2012 final dividend will be payable on 8 May 2013, subject to shareholder approval. 

In respect of the proposed final dividend for the year ended 31 December 2012 of 16.20 US cents per Ordinary Share, the record date will be 19 April 2013 and the 
payment date will be 8 May 2013. The sterling equivalent per Ordinary Share will be set following the record date. Shareholders may elect to receive their dividend in 
either sterling or US Dollars and the last day for election will be 19 April 2013. The Ordinary Shares will trade ex-dividend on both the London and New York Stock 
Exchanges from 17 April 2013. 

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150

Group information continued

Share prices 
The table below sets out, for the periods indicated, the highest and lowest middle market quotations for the Company’s Ordinary Shares (as derived from the Daily Official 
List of the UK Listing Authority) and the highest and lowest sales prices of its ADSs (as reported on the New York Stock Exchange composite tape).  

Year ended 31 December: 

2008 

2009 

2010 

2011 

2012 

Quarters in the year ended 31 December: 

2011: 

1st Quarter 

2nd Quarter 

3rd Quarter 

4th Quarter 

2012: 

1st Quarter 

2nd Quarter 

3rd Quarter 

4th Quarter 

2013: 

1st Quarter (to 19 February 2013) 

Last Six Months: 

August 2012 

September 2012 

October 2012 

November 2012 

December 2012 

January 2013 

February 2013 (to 19 February 2013) 

Ordinary Shares 

High
£

6.91

6.42

6.97

7.42

6.93

7.42

7.15

6.87

6.26

6.43

6.40

6.93

6.92

7.34

6.79

6.93

6.92

6.62

6.89

7.34

7.28

Low 
£ 

4.13   

4.20   

5.38   

5.21   

5.80   

6.50   

6.35   

5.21   

5.41   

5.95   

5.80   

6.38   

6.38   

ADSs 

High 
US$ 

68.87 

51.38 

53.94 

60.19 

56.13 

60.19 

58.18 

55.30 

48.15 

51.13 

51.23 

56.13 

55.77 

Low
US$

30.39

30.57

41.29

42.17

45.13

50.83

51.11

42.17

42.68

45.57

45.13

49.50

51.01

6.84   

58.00 

54.28

6.50   

6.61   

6.44   

6.38   

6.63   

6.84   

6.94   

52.92 

56.13 

55.77 

52.77 

55.66 

58.00 

57.43 

51.33

52.67

51.27

51.01

53.28

55.53

54.28

Information for shareholders 

Financial calendar 

Annual General Meeting 

Quarter One results 

Payment of 2012 final dividend 

11 April 2013 

2 May 2013 

8 May 2013 

Half year results announced 

1 August 2013 (i) 

Quarter Three results announced 

31 October 2013 

Payment of 2013 first interim dividend  November 2013 

Full year results announced 

February 2014 (i) 

Annual Report available 

February/March 2014 

Annual General Meeting 

April/May 2014 

(i)  Dividend declaration dates. 

Shareholder facilities 

Shareview 

Equiniti’s online enquiry and portfolio management service for shareholders. 

To view information about your shareholdings online, register at 

www.shareview.co.uk. Once registered for Shareview, you will also be able to 

register your proxy instructions online and elect to receive future shareholder 

communications via the Company’s website (www.smith-nephew.com). 

E-communications 

We encourage shareholders to elect to receive communications via e-mail as this 

has significant environmental and cost benefits. Shareholders may register for this 

service through Equiniti, at www.shareview.co.uk. Shareholders will receive a 

confirmation letter from Equiniti at their registered address, containing an 

Activation Code for future use. 

Payment of dividends direct to your bank or building society account 

Shareholders who wish to avoid the risk of their dividend payments getting lost or 

mislaid can arrange to have their cash dividends paid directly to a bank or building 

society account. This facility is available to UK resident shareholders who receive 

sterling dividends. If you do not live in the UK you may be able to register for the 

overseas payment service. Further Information is available at 

www.shareview.co.uk or by contacting Equiniti (UK and overseas helpline 

numbers as above). 

Dividend re-investment plan (DRIP) 

The Company offers shareholders (except those in North America) the opportunity 

to participate in a DRIP. This enables shareholders to reinvest their cash dividends 

in further Ordinary Shares of Smith & Nephew plc. These are purchased in the 

market at competitive dealing costs. For further details plus an application form 

to re-invest future dividends, contact Equiniti (as above). 

Individual savings account (ISA) 

Shareholders who are UK resident may hold Smith & Nephew plc shares in 

an Individual Savings Account (ISA), which is administered by the Company’s 

registrar. For information about this service please contact Equiniti (as above). 

Ordinary shareholders 

Registrar 

All general enquiries concerning shareholdings, dividends, changes to 

shareholders’ personal details and the AGM should be addressed to: 

Equiniti, Aspect House, Spencer Road, Lancing, West Sussex BN99 6DA 

Tel: 0871 384 2081 * 

Tel: +44 (0) 121 415 7072 from outside the UK. 

Website: www.shareview.co.uk 

*  Calls to this number are charged at 8p per minute (excluding VAT) plus network extras. 

Lines are open from 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday, excluding UK public holidays.  

Shareholder communications 

The Company makes quarterly financial announcements which are made 

available through Stock Exchange announcements and on the Group’s website 

(www.smith-nephew.com). Copies of recent Annual Reports, press releases, 

institutional presentations and audio webcasts are also available on the website. 

The Company sends paper copies of the Notice of Annual General Meeting and 

Annual Report only to those shareholders that have elected to receive shareholder 

documentation by post. ADS holders will also not receive a paper copy unless 

they have elected to do so. Electronic copies of the Annual Report and Notice of 

Annual General Meeting are available on the Group’s website at www.smith-

nephew.com. Both Ordinary shareholders and ADS holders can request paper 

copies of the Annual Report, which the Company provides free of charge. The 

Company will continue to send to Ordinary shareholders by post the Form of Proxy 

and an accompanying letter notifying them of the availability of the Annual Report 

and Notice of Annual General Meeting on the Group’s website. Shareholders 

who elect to receive the Annual Report and Notice of Annual General Meeting 

electronically are informed by e-mail of the documents’ availability on the Group’s 

website. ADS holders receive the Form of Proxy by post but will not receive a 

paper copy of the Notice of Annual General Meeting. 

Investor communications 

The Company maintains regular dialogue with individual institutional shareholders, 

together with results presentations. To ensure that all members of the Board 

develop an understanding of the views of major investors, the Executive Directors 

review significant issues raised by investors with the Board. Non-Executive 

Directors are sent copies of analysts’ and brokers’ briefings. There is an 

opportunity for individual shareholders to question the Directors at the AGM and 

the Company regularly responds to letters from shareholders on a range of issues. 

UK capital gains tax 

For the purposes of UK capital gains tax the price of the Company’s Ordinary 

Shares on 31 March 1982 was 35.04p. 

Smith & Nephew share price 

The Company’s Ordinary Shares are quoted on the LSE under the symbol SN. The 

Company’s share price is available on the Smith & Nephew website www.smith-

nephew.com and at www.londonstockexchange.com where it is updated at 

intervals throughout the day. 

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Group information continued

Information for shareholders 

151

The table below sets out, for the periods indicated, the highest and lowest middle market quotations for the Company’s Ordinary Shares (as derived from the Daily Official 

List of the UK Listing Authority) and the highest and lowest sales prices of its ADSs (as reported on the New York Stock Exchange composite tape).  

Quarters in the year ended 31 December: 

Share prices 

Year ended 31 December: 

2008 

2009 

2010 

2011 

2012 

2011: 

1st Quarter 

2nd Quarter 

3rd Quarter 

4th Quarter 

2012: 

1st Quarter 

2nd Quarter 

3rd Quarter 

4th Quarter 

2013: 

Last Six Months: 

August 2012 

September 2012 

October 2012 

November 2012 

December 2012 

January 2013 

February 2013 (to 19 February 2013) 

Ordinary Shares 

ADSs 

High 

US$ 

High

£

6.91

6.42

6.97

7.42

6.93

7.42

7.15

6.87

6.26

6.43

6.40

6.93

6.92

7.34

6.79

6.93

6.92

6.62

6.89

7.34

7.28

Low 

£ 

4.13   

4.20   

5.38   

5.21   

5.80   

6.50   

6.35   

5.21   

5.41   

5.95   

5.80   

6.38   

6.38   

6.50   

6.61   

6.44   

6.38   

6.63   

6.84   

6.94   

Low

US$

30.39

30.57

41.29

42.17

45.13

50.83

51.11

42.17

42.68

45.57

45.13

49.50

51.01

51.33

52.67

51.27

51.01

53.28

55.53

54.28

68.87 

51.38 

53.94 

60.19 

56.13 

60.19 

58.18 

55.30 

48.15 

51.13 

51.23 

56.13 

55.77 

52.92 

56.13 

55.77 

52.77 

55.66 

58.00 

57.43 

1st Quarter (to 19 February 2013) 

6.84   

58.00 

54.28

Financial calendar 
Annual General Meeting 

Quarter One results 

Payment of 2012 final dividend 

11 April 2013 

2 May 2013 

8 May 2013 

Half year results announced 

1 August 2013 (i) 

Quarter Three results announced 

31 October 2013 

Payment of 2013 first interim dividend  November 2013 

Full year results announced 

February 2014 (i) 

Annual Report available 

February/March 2014 

Annual General Meeting 

April/May 2014 

(i)  Dividend declaration dates. 

Shareholder facilities 
Shareview 
Equiniti’s online enquiry and portfolio management service for shareholders. 
To view information about your shareholdings online, register at 
www.shareview.co.uk. Once registered for Shareview, you will also be able to 
register your proxy instructions online and elect to receive future shareholder 
communications via the Company’s website (www.smith-nephew.com). 

E-communications 
We encourage shareholders to elect to receive communications via e-mail as this 
has significant environmental and cost benefits. Shareholders may register for this 
service through Equiniti, at www.shareview.co.uk. Shareholders will receive a 
confirmation letter from Equiniti at their registered address, containing an 
Activation Code for future use. 

Payment of dividends direct to your bank or building society account 
Shareholders who wish to avoid the risk of their dividend payments getting lost or 
mislaid can arrange to have their cash dividends paid directly to a bank or building 
society account. This facility is available to UK resident shareholders who receive 
sterling dividends. If you do not live in the UK you may be able to register for the 
overseas payment service. Further Information is available at 
www.shareview.co.uk or by contacting Equiniti (UK and overseas helpline 
numbers as above). 

Dividend re-investment plan (DRIP) 
The Company offers shareholders (except those in North America) the opportunity 
to participate in a DRIP. This enables shareholders to reinvest their cash dividends 
in further Ordinary Shares of Smith & Nephew plc. These are purchased in the 
market at competitive dealing costs. For further details plus an application form 
to re-invest future dividends, contact Equiniti (as above). 

Individual savings account (ISA) 
Shareholders who are UK resident may hold Smith & Nephew plc shares in 
an Individual Savings Account (ISA), which is administered by the Company’s 
registrar. For information about this service please contact Equiniti (as above). 

Ordinary shareholders 

Registrar 
All general enquiries concerning shareholdings, dividends, changes to 
shareholders’ personal details and the AGM should be addressed to: 

Equiniti, Aspect House, Spencer Road, Lancing, West Sussex BN99 6DA 

Tel: 0871 384 2081 * 
Tel: +44 (0) 121 415 7072 from outside the UK. 
Website: www.shareview.co.uk 

*  Calls to this number are charged at 8p per minute (excluding VAT) plus network extras. 

Lines are open from 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday, excluding UK public holidays.  

Shareholder communications 
The Company makes quarterly financial announcements which are made 
available through Stock Exchange announcements and on the Group’s website 
(www.smith-nephew.com). Copies of recent Annual Reports, press releases, 
institutional presentations and audio webcasts are also available on the website. 

The Company sends paper copies of the Notice of Annual General Meeting and 
Annual Report only to those shareholders that have elected to receive shareholder 
documentation by post. ADS holders will also not receive a paper copy unless 
they have elected to do so. Electronic copies of the Annual Report and Notice of 
Annual General Meeting are available on the Group’s website at www.smith-
nephew.com. Both Ordinary shareholders and ADS holders can request paper 
copies of the Annual Report, which the Company provides free of charge. The 
Company will continue to send to Ordinary shareholders by post the Form of Proxy 
and an accompanying letter notifying them of the availability of the Annual Report 
and Notice of Annual General Meeting on the Group’s website. Shareholders 
who elect to receive the Annual Report and Notice of Annual General Meeting 
electronically are informed by e-mail of the documents’ availability on the Group’s 
website. ADS holders receive the Form of Proxy by post but will not receive a 
paper copy of the Notice of Annual General Meeting. 

Investor communications 
The Company maintains regular dialogue with individual institutional shareholders, 
together with results presentations. To ensure that all members of the Board 
develop an understanding of the views of major investors, the Executive Directors 
review significant issues raised by investors with the Board. Non-Executive 
Directors are sent copies of analysts’ and brokers’ briefings. There is an 
opportunity for individual shareholders to question the Directors at the AGM and 
the Company regularly responds to letters from shareholders on a range of issues. 

UK capital gains tax 
For the purposes of UK capital gains tax the price of the Company’s Ordinary 
Shares on 31 March 1982 was 35.04p. 

Smith & Nephew share price 
The Company’s Ordinary Shares are quoted on the LSE under the symbol SN. The 
Company’s share price is available on the Smith & Nephew website www.smith-
nephew.com and at www.londonstockexchange.com where it is updated at 
intervals throughout the day. 

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152

Information for shareholders continued 

ShareGift 
Shareholders with only a small number of shares, which would cost more to sell 
than they are worth, may wish to consider donating them to the charity ShareGift 
(registered charity 1052686) which specialises in accepting such shares as 
donations. There may be no implications for Capital Gains Tax purposes (no gain 
or loss) and it may also be possible to obtain income tax relief. The relevant stock 
transfer form may be obtained from Equiniti at the above address. 

Further information about ShareGift is available at www.sharegift.org or by 
contacting ShareGift at: 

ShareGift, 17 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1Y 5AH. 

Tel: (+44) (0) 20 7930 3737. 

American Depositary Shares (ADSs) and 
American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) 
In the US, the Company’s Ordinary Shares are traded in the form of ADSs, 
evidenced by ADRs, on the NYSE under the symbol SNN. Each American 
Depositary Share represents five Ordinary Shares. The Bank of New York Mellon is 
the authorised depositary bank for the Company’s ADR programme. 

ADS enquiries 
All enquiries regarding ADS holder accounts and payment of dividends should 
be addressed to: 

The Bank of New York Mellon, PO Box 358516, Pittsburgh, PA 15252-8516, USA; 

Tel: +1-866-259-2287 inside the US (toll free) 
Tel: +1-201-680-6825 internationally 
Email: shrrelations@bnymellon.com 

A Global Buy DIRECT plan is available for US residents, enabling investment 
directly in ADSs with reduced brokerage commissions and service costs. For 
further information on Global Buy DIRECT contact: The Bank of New York Mellon 
(as above) or visit www.bnymellon.com/shareowner.

The Company provides The Bank of New York Mellon, as depositary, with 
copies of Annual Reports containing Consolidated Financial Statements and 
the opinion expressed thereon by its independent auditors. Such financial 
statements are prepared under IFRS. The Bank of New York Mellon will send 
these reports to recorded ADS holders who have elected to receive paper 
copies. The Company also provides to The Bank of New York Mellon all notices 
of shareholders’ meetings and other reports and communications that are 
made generally available to shareholders of the Company. The Bank of New York 
Mellon makes such notices, reports and communications available for inspection 
by recorded holders of ADSs and sends voting instruction forms by post to all 
recorded holders of ADSs. 

Smith & Nephew ADS price 
The Company’s ADS price can be obtained from the official New York Stock 
Exchange website at www.nyse.com, the Smith-Nephew website www.smith-
nephew.com and is quoted daily in the Wall Street Journal. 

ADS payment information 
The Company hereby discloses ADS payment information for the year ended 
31 December 2012 in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Commission 
rules 12.D.3 and 12.D.4 relating to Form 20-F filings by foreign private issuers. 

The depositary collects its fees for delivery and surrender of ADSs directly from 
investors depositing shares or surrendering ADSs for the purpose of withdrawal 
or from intermediaries acting for them. The depositary collects fees for making 
distributions to investors, including payment of dividends by the Company by 
deducting those fees from the amounts distributed or by selling a portion of 
distributable property to pay the fees. The depositary may collect its annual fee 
for depository services by deductions from cash distributions or by directly billing 
investors or by charging the book-entry system accounts of participants acting for 
them. The depositary may generally refuse to provide fee-attracting services until 
its fee for those services are paid. 

Persons depositing or withdrawing shares must pay: 

For: 

$5.00 (or less) per 100 ADSs (or portion of 100 ADSs) 

$0.02 (or less) per ADS 

Issuance of ADSs, including issuances resulting from a distribution of shares or 
rights or other property 

Cancellation of ADSs for the purpose of withdrawal, including if the deposit 
agreement terminates 

Any cash distribution to ADS registered holders, including payment of dividend

A fee equivalent to the fee that would be payable if securities distributed to holders 
had been shares and the shares had been deposited for issuance of ADSs 

Distribution of securities distributed to holders of deposited securities which are 
distributed by the depositary to ADS registered holders 

$0.02 (or less) per ADS per calendar year 

Registration or transfer fees 

Depositary services

Transfer and registration of shares on our share register to or from the name of the 
depositary or its agent when shares are deposited or withdrawn 

Taxes and other governmental charges the depositary or the custodian have to 
pay on any ADS or share underlying an ADS, for example, stock transfer taxes, 
stamp duty or withholding taxes 

Any charges incurred by the depositary or its agents for servicing the 
deposited securities 

As necessary

As necessary

A fee of two US cents per ADS was paid on the 2011 final dividend and a fee of one US cent per ADS was deducted from the 2012 first interim dividend paid in October. 
In the period 1 January 2012 to 19 February 2013 the total reimbursed by The Bank of New York Mellon was $156,138.56. 

Major shareholders 

As far as is known to Smith & Nephew, the Group is not directly or indirectly 

owned or controlled by another corporation or by any government and the Group 

has not entered into arrangements, the operation of which may at a subsequent 

date result in a change in control of the Group. 

As at 19 February 2013, no persons are known to Smith & Nephew to have any 

interest (as defined in the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the FSA) in 3% or 

more of the Ordinary Shares, other than as shown below. The following tables 

show changes over the last three years in the percentage and numbers of the 

issued share capital owned by shareholders holding 3% or more of Ordinary 

Shares, as notified to the Company under the Disclosure and Transparency Rules: 

Share capital 

The principal trading market for the Ordinary Shares is the London Stock 

Exchange. The Ordinary Shares were listed on the New York Stock Exchange on 

16 November 1999, trading in the form of ADSs evidenced by ADRs. Each ADS 

represents five Ordinary Shares. The ADS facility is sponsored by The Bank of 

New York Mellon acting as depositary. 

All the Ordinary Shares, including those held by Directors and Executive Officers, 

rank pari passu with each other. On 23 January 2006 the Ordinary Shares of 

12 2/9 pence were redenominated as Ordinary Shares of US 20 cents (following 

approval by shareholders at the extraordinary general meeting in December 

2005). The new US Dollar Ordinary Shares carry the same rights as the previous 

Ordinary Shares. The share price continues to be quoted in sterling and the ADSs 

continue to represent five Ordinary Shares. In 2006 the Company issued £50,000 

of shares in sterling in order to comply with English law. These were issued as 

Deferred Shares, which are not listed on any stock exchange. They have 

extremely limited rights and therefore effectively have no value. These shares 

were allotted to the Chief Executive Officer, although the Board reserves the right 

to transfer them to another member of the Board should it so wish. 

As at 19 February 2013, to the knowledge of the Group, there were 19,122 

registered holders of Ordinary Shares, of whom 86 had registered addresses in 

the US and held a total of 183,774 Ordinary Shares (less than 0.2% of the total 

issued). Because certain Ordinary Shares are registered in the names of 

nominees, the number of shareholders with registered addresses in the US is not 

representative of the number of beneficial owners of Ordinary Shares resident in 

the US. 

Shareholdings 

As at 19 February 2013, 6,478,972 ADSs equivalent to 32,394,860 Ordinary 

Shares or approximately  3.6% of the total Ordinary Shares in issue, were 

outstanding and were held by 84 registered holders. 

Invesco 

BlackRock, Inc. 

Newton Investment Management Limited

Legal and General Group plc 

Capital Group of Companies Inc. 

Thornburg Investment Management Inc. 

Invesco 

BlackRock, Inc. 

Newton Investment Management Limited

Legal and General Group plc 

Capital Group of Companies Inc. 

Thornburg Investment Management Inc. 

As at 31 December 

19 February 2013

%

11.6

5.0

0.9

3.1

–

–

’000

105,165

44,811

8,196

28,331

–

–

2012 

% 

11.9  

5.0 

4.9 

3.0  

–  

–  

 2012 

’000 

107,823 

44,811 

8,432 

26,906 

–  

–  

2011 

% 

5.0 

5.0  

5.0 

4.0  

0.7 

– 

2011 

’000 

44,901  

44,811  

44,337  

35,676  

6,138  

– 

2010

%

–

5.0 

5.0 

5.0

5.1

4.1

2010

’000

–

44,322 

44,735 

44,704 

44,594 

36,164 

As at 31 December 

19 February 2013

In addition to the above, the Company is aware that Walter Scott & Partners Limited held approximately 39m Ordinary Shares (4.3%) at 19 February 2013. 

The Company is not aware of any person who has a significant direct or indirect holding of securities in the Company, and is not aware of any persons holding securities 

which may control the Company. There are no securities in issue which have special rights as to the control of the Company. 

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ShareGift 

Shareholders with only a small number of shares, which would cost more to sell 

than they are worth, may wish to consider donating them to the charity ShareGift 

(registered charity 1052686) which specialises in accepting such shares as 

donations. There may be no implications for Capital Gains Tax purposes (no gain 

or loss) and it may also be possible to obtain income tax relief. The relevant stock 

transfer form may be obtained from Equiniti at the above address. 

Further information about ShareGift is available at www.sharegift.org or by 

contacting ShareGift at: 

ShareGift, 17 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1Y 5AH. 

Tel: (+44) (0) 20 7930 3737. 

American Depositary Shares (ADSs) and 

American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) 

In the US, the Company’s Ordinary Shares are traded in the form of ADSs, 

evidenced by ADRs, on the NYSE under the symbol SNN. Each American 

Depositary Share represents five Ordinary Shares. The Bank of New York Mellon is 

the authorised depositary bank for the Company’s ADR programme. 

ADS enquiries 

be addressed to: 

All enquiries regarding ADS holder accounts and payment of dividends should 

The Bank of New York Mellon, PO Box 358516, Pittsburgh, PA 15252-8516, USA; 

Tel: +1-866-259-2287 inside the US (toll free) 

Tel: +1-201-680-6825 internationally 

Email: shrrelations@bnymellon.com 

A Global Buy DIRECT plan is available for US residents, enabling investment 

directly in ADSs with reduced brokerage commissions and service costs. For 

further information on Global Buy DIRECT contact: The Bank of New York Mellon 

(as above) or visit www.bnymellon.com/shareowner.

The Company provides The Bank of New York Mellon, as depositary, with 

copies of Annual Reports containing Consolidated Financial Statements and 

the opinion expressed thereon by its independent auditors. Such financial 

statements are prepared under IFRS. The Bank of New York Mellon will send 

these reports to recorded ADS holders who have elected to receive paper 

copies. The Company also provides to The Bank of New York Mellon all notices 

of shareholders’ meetings and other reports and communications that are 

made generally available to shareholders of the Company. The Bank of New York 

Mellon makes such notices, reports and communications available for inspection 

by recorded holders of ADSs and sends voting instruction forms by post to all 

recorded holders of ADSs. 

Smith & Nephew ADS price 

The Company’s ADS price can be obtained from the official New York Stock 

Exchange website at www.nyse.com, the Smith-Nephew website www.smith-

nephew.com and is quoted daily in the Wall Street Journal. 

ADS payment information 

The Company hereby discloses ADS payment information for the year ended 

31 December 2012 in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Commission 

rules 12.D.3 and 12.D.4 relating to Form 20-F filings by foreign private issuers. 

The depositary collects its fees for delivery and surrender of ADSs directly from 

investors depositing shares or surrendering ADSs for the purpose of withdrawal 

or from intermediaries acting for them. The depositary collects fees for making 

distributions to investors, including payment of dividends by the Company by 

deducting those fees from the amounts distributed or by selling a portion of 

distributable property to pay the fees. The depositary may collect its annual fee 

for depository services by deductions from cash distributions or by directly billing 

investors or by charging the book-entry system accounts of participants acting for 

them. The depositary may generally refuse to provide fee-attracting services until 

its fee for those services are paid. 

Persons depositing or withdrawing shares must pay: 

For: 

$5.00 (or less) per 100 ADSs (or portion of 100 ADSs) 

Issuance of ADSs, including issuances resulting from a distribution of shares or 

rights or other property 

agreement terminates 

Cancellation of ADSs for the purpose of withdrawal, including if the deposit 

$0.02 (or less) per ADS 

Any cash distribution to ADS registered holders, including payment of dividend

A fee equivalent to the fee that would be payable if securities distributed to holders 

Distribution of securities distributed to holders of deposited securities which are 

had been shares and the shares had been deposited for issuance of ADSs 

distributed by the depositary to ADS registered holders 

$0.02 (or less) per ADS per calendar year 

Registration or transfer fees 

Depositary services

Transfer and registration of shares on our share register to or from the name of the 

depositary or its agent when shares are deposited or withdrawn 

Taxes and other governmental charges the depositary or the custodian have to 

As necessary

pay on any ADS or share underlying an ADS, for example, stock transfer taxes, 

stamp duty or withholding taxes 

deposited securities 

Any charges incurred by the depositary or its agents for servicing the 

As necessary

A fee of two US cents per ADS was paid on the 2011 final dividend and a fee of one US cent per ADS was deducted from the 2012 first interim dividend paid in October. 

In the period 1 January 2012 to 19 February 2013 the total reimbursed by The Bank of New York Mellon was $156,138.56. 

Information for shareholders continued 

Share capital 

The principal trading market for the Ordinary Shares is the London Stock 
Exchange. The Ordinary Shares were listed on the New York Stock Exchange on 
16 November 1999, trading in the form of ADSs evidenced by ADRs. Each ADS 
represents five Ordinary Shares. The ADS facility is sponsored by The Bank of 
New York Mellon acting as depositary. 

All the Ordinary Shares, including those held by Directors and Executive Officers, 
rank pari passu with each other. On 23 January 2006 the Ordinary Shares of 
12 2/9 pence were redenominated as Ordinary Shares of US 20 cents (following 
approval by shareholders at the extraordinary general meeting in December 
2005). The new US Dollar Ordinary Shares carry the same rights as the previous 
Ordinary Shares. The share price continues to be quoted in sterling and the ADSs 
continue to represent five Ordinary Shares. In 2006 the Company issued £50,000 
of shares in sterling in order to comply with English law. These were issued as 
Deferred Shares, which are not listed on any stock exchange. They have 
extremely limited rights and therefore effectively have no value. These shares 
were allotted to the Chief Executive Officer, although the Board reserves the right 
to transfer them to another member of the Board should it so wish. 

As at 19 February 2013, to the knowledge of the Group, there were 19,122 
registered holders of Ordinary Shares, of whom 86 had registered addresses in 
the US and held a total of 183,774 Ordinary Shares (less than 0.2% of the total 
issued). Because certain Ordinary Shares are registered in the names of 
nominees, the number of shareholders with registered addresses in the US is not 
representative of the number of beneficial owners of Ordinary Shares resident in 
the US. 

Shareholdings 
As at 19 February 2013, 6,478,972 ADSs equivalent to 32,394,860 Ordinary 
Shares or approximately  3.6% of the total Ordinary Shares in issue, were 
outstanding and were held by 84 registered holders. 

153

Major shareholders 
As far as is known to Smith & Nephew, the Group is not directly or indirectly 
owned or controlled by another corporation or by any government and the Group 
has not entered into arrangements, the operation of which may at a subsequent 
date result in a change in control of the Group. 

As at 19 February 2013, no persons are known to Smith & Nephew to have any 
interest (as defined in the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the FSA) in 3% or 
more of the Ordinary Shares, other than as shown below. The following tables 
show changes over the last three years in the percentage and numbers of the 
issued share capital owned by shareholders holding 3% or more of Ordinary 
Shares, as notified to the Company under the Disclosure and Transparency Rules: 

Invesco 

BlackRock, Inc. 

Newton Investment Management Limited

Legal and General Group plc 

Capital Group of Companies Inc. 

Thornburg Investment Management Inc. 

Invesco 

BlackRock, Inc. 

Newton Investment Management Limited

Legal and General Group plc 

Capital Group of Companies Inc. 

Thornburg Investment Management Inc. 

19 February 2013
%

11.6

5.0

0.9

3.1

–

–

19 February 2013
’000

105,165

44,811

8,196

28,331

–

–

As at 31 December 

2012 
% 

11.9  

5.0 

4.9 

3.0  

–  

–  

As at 31 December 

 2012 
’000 

107,823 

44,811 

8,432 

26,906 

–  

–  

2011 
% 

5.0 

5.0  

5.0 

4.0  

0.7 

– 

2011 
’000 

44,901  

44,811  

44,337  

35,676  

6,138  

– 

2010
%

–

5.0 

5.0 

5.0

5.1

4.1

2010
’000

–

44,322 

44,735 

44,704 

44,594 

36,164 

In addition to the above, the Company is aware that Walter Scott & Partners Limited held approximately 39m Ordinary Shares (4.3%) at 19 February 2013. 

The Company is not aware of any person who has a significant direct or indirect holding of securities in the Company, and is not aware of any persons holding securities 
which may control the Company. There are no securities in issue which have special rights as to the control of the Company. 

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overviewstrategy and performancemarketplace and business reviewsustainability reviewfinancial review  and principal riskscorporate  governanceaccounts and  other informationsection 7 accounts and other information 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
154

Share capital continued 

Taxation information for shareholders 

Purchase of Ordinary Shares 
on behalf of the Company 
The share buy-back programme was suspended in November 2008, in light of 
conditions in the financial markets. The programme is kept under review. The 
Company will seek a renewal of its permission from shareholders to purchase up 
to 10% of its own shares at the AGM on 11 April 2013. As at 31 December 2012, 
68,240,200 (2011 – 68,240,200) Ordinary Shares had been purchased under the 
share buy-back programme that commenced in February 2007. No shares were 
purchased in the years between 2009 to 2012. 

Exchange controls and other limitations affecting 
security holders 
There are no UK governmental laws, decrees or regulations that restrict the 
export or import of capital or that affect the payment of dividends, interest or 
other payments to non-resident holders of Smith & Nephew’s securities, except 
for certain restrictions imposed from time to time by Her Majesty’s Treasury of 
the United Kingdom pursuant to legislation, such as the United Nations Act 1946 
and the Emergency Laws Act 1964, against the government or residents of 
certain countries. 

There are no limitations, either under the laws of the UK or under the articles of 
association of Smith & Nephew, restricting the right of non-UK residents to hold 
or to exercise voting rights in respect of Ordinary Shares, except that where any 
overseas shareholder has not provided to the Company a UK address for the 
service of notices, the Company is under no obligation to send any notice or other 
document to an overseas address. It is, however, the current practice of the 
Company to send every notice or other document to all shareholders regardless 
of the country recorded in the register of members, with the exception of details 
of the Company’s dividend re-investment plan, which are not sent to shareholders 
with recorded addresses in the US and Canada.

The comments below are of a general and summary nature and are based on the 
Group’s understanding of certain aspects of current UK and US federal income tax 
law and practice relevant to the ADSs and Ordinary Shares not in ADS form. The 
comments address the material US and UK tax consequences generally 
applicable to a person who is the beneficial owner of ADSs or Ordinary Shares 
and who, for US federal income tax purposes, is a citizen or resident of the United 
States, a corporation (or other entity taxable as a corporation) created or organised 
in or under the laws of the United States, or an estate or trust the income of which 
is included in gross income for US federal income tax purposes regardless of its 
source (each a ‘US Holder’). The comments set out below do not purport to 
address all tax consequences of the ownership of ADSs or Ordinary Shares which 
may be material to a particular holder and in particular do not deal with the position 
of shareholders who directly or indirectly own 10% or more of the Company’s 
issued Ordinary Shares. This discussion does not apply to (i) persons whose 
holding of ADSs or Ordinary Shares is effectively connected with or pertains to 
either a permanent establishment in the United Kingdom through which a US 
Holder carries on a business in the United Kingdom or a fixed base from which 
a US Holder performs independent personal services in the United Kingdom, or 
(ii) persons whose registered address is inside the UK. This discussion does not 
apply to certain investors subject to special rules, such as certain financial 
institutions, tax-exempt entities, insurance companies, broker-dealers, traders in 
securities that elect to mark to market, partnerships or other entities treated as 
partnerships for US federal income tax purposes, US Holders holding ADSs or 
Ordinary Shares as part of a hedging, conversion or other integrated transaction or 
whose functional currency for US federal income tax purposes is other than the US 
Dollar and US Holders liable for alternative minimum tax. In addition, the 
comments below do not address US state, local or non-US (other than UK) taxes. 
The summary deals only with US Holders who hold ADSs or Ordinary Shares as 
capital assets. The summary is based on current UK and US law and practice 
which is subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect. US Holders are 
recommended to consult their own tax advisers as to the particular tax 
consequences to them of the ownership of ADSs or Ordinary Shares. 
The Company believes, and this discussion assumes, that the Company 
was not a passive foreign investment company for its taxable year ended 
31 December 2012. 

This discussion is based in part on representations by the depositary and 
assumes that each obligation under the deposit agreement and any related 
agreement will be performed in accordance with its terms. For purposes of US 
federal income tax law, US Holders of ADSs will generally be treated as owners 
of the Ordinary Shares represented by the ADSs. However, the US Treasury has 
expressed concerns that parties to whom depositary shares are released before 
shares are delivered to the depositary (‘pre-released’) may be taking actions that 
are inconsistent with the claiming of foreign tax credits by owners of depositary 
shares. Such actions would also be inconsistent with the claiming of the reduced 
rate of tax, described below, applicable to dividends received by certain non-
corporate US Holders. Accordingly, the availability of the reduced tax rate for 
dividends received by certain non-corporate US Holders of ADSs could be 
affected by actions that may be taken by parties to whom ADSs are pre-released. 

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25/02/2013   11:45

Taxation of dividends in the United Kingdom 

and the United States 

corporation, such as the Company. 

The UK does not currently impose a withholding tax on dividends paid by a UK 

Distributions paid by the Company will be treated for US federal income tax 

purposes as foreign source ordinary dividend income to a US Holder to the extent 

paid out of the Company’s current or accumulated earnings and profits as 

determined for US federal income tax purposes. Such dividends will not be eligible 

for the dividends-received deduction generally allowed to corporate US Holders. 

Dividends paid to certain non-corporate US Holders of Ordinary Shares or ADSs 

may be subject to US federal income tax at lower rates than other types of ordinary 

income if certain conditions are met. Non-corporate US Holders should consult 

their own tax advisers to determine whether they are subject to any special rules 

that limit their ability to be taxed at these favourable rates. 

Taxation of capital gains 

US Holders, who are not resident or ordinarily resident for tax purposes in the UK, 

will not generally be liable for UK capital gains tax on any capital gain realised upon 

the sale or other disposition of ADSs or Ordinary Shares unless the ADSs or 

Ordinary Shares are held in connection with a trade carried on in the UK through 

a permanent establishment (or in the case of individuals, through a branch 

or agency). Furthermore, UK resident individuals who acquire ADSs or Ordinary 

Shares before becoming temporarily non-UK residents may remain subject 

to UK taxation of capital gains on gains realised while non-resident. 

For US federal income tax purposes, gains or losses realised upon a taxable sale 

or other disposition of ADSs or Ordinary Shares by US Holders generally will be US 

source capital gains or losses and will be long-term capital gains or losses if the 

ADSs or Ordinary Shares were held for more than one year. The amount of a US 

Holder’s gain or loss will be equal to the difference between the amount realised 

on the sale or other disposition and such holder’s tax basis in the ADSs, or 

Ordinary Shares, determined in US Dollars. 

Inheritance and estate taxes 

The HM Revenue & Customs imposes inheritance tax on capital transfers which 

occur on death, and in the seven years preceding death. The HM Revenue & 

Customs considers that the US/UK Double Taxation Convention on Estate and Gift 

Tax applies to inheritance tax. Consequently, a US citizen who is domiciled in the 

United States and is not a UK national or domiciled in the United Kingdom will not 

be subject to UK inheritance tax in respect of ADSs and Ordinary Shares. A UK 

national who is domiciled in the United States will be subject to both UK 

inheritance tax and US federal estate tax but will be entitled to a credit for US 

federal estate tax charged in respect of ADSs and Ordinary Shares in computing 

the liability to UK inheritance tax. Conversely, a US citizen who is domiciled or 

deemed domiciled in the United Kingdom will be entitled to a credit for UK 

inheritance tax charged in respect of ADSs and Ordinary Shares in computing the 

liability for US federal estate tax. Special rules apply where ADSs and Ordinary 

Shares are business property of a permanent establishment of an enterprise 

situated in the United Kingdom. 

US information reporting and backup withholding 

A US Holder may be subject to US information reporting and backup withholding 

on dividends paid on or the proceeds of sales of ADSs or Ordinary Shares made 

within the US or through certain US-related financial intermediaries, unless the US 

Holder is an exempt recipient or, in the case of backup withholding, provides a 

correct US taxpayer identification number and certain other conditions are met. 

US backup withholding may apply if there has been a notification from the US 

Internal Revenue Service of a failure to report all interest or dividends. 

Any backup withholding deducted may be credited against the US Holder’s US 

federal income tax liability, and, where the backup withholding exceeds the actual 

liability, the US Holder may obtain a refund by timely filing the appropriate refund 

claim with the US Internal Revenue Service. 

Certain US Holders who are individuals (and under proposed Treasury regulations, 

certain entities) may be required to report information relating to securities issued 

by a non-US person (or foreign accounts through which the securities are held), 

subject to certain exceptions (including an exception for securities held in 

accounts maintained by US financial institutions). US Holders should consult their 

tax advisers regarding their reporting obligations with respect to the Ordinary 

Shares or ADSs. 

UK stamp duty and stamp duty reserve tax 

UK stamp duty is charged on documents and in particular instruments for the 

transfer of registered ownership of Ordinary Shares. Transfers of Ordinary 

Shares in certificated form will generally be subject to UK stamp duty at the rate 

of ½% of the consideration given for the transfer with the duty rounded up to the 

nearest £5. 

UK stamp duty reserve tax (‘SDRT’) arises when there is an agreement to transfer 

shares in UK companies ‘for consideration in money or money’s worth’, and so an 

agreement to transfer Ordinary Shares for money or other consideration may give 

rise to a charge to SDRT at the rate of ½% (rounded up to the nearest penny). 

The charge of SDRT will be cancelled, and any SDRT already paid will be refunded, 

if within six years of the agreement an instrument of transfer is produced 

to HM Revenue & Customs and the appropriate stamp duty paid. 

Transfers of Ordinary Shares into CREST (an electronic transfer system) are exempt 

from stamp duty so long as the transferee is a member of CREST who will hold the 

Ordinary Shares as a nominee for the transferor and the transfer is in a form that 

will ensure that the securities become held in uncertificated form within CREST. 

Paperless transfers of Ordinary Shares within CREST for consideration in money or 

money’s worth are liable to SDRT rather than stamp duty. SDRT on relevant 

transactions will be collected by CREST at ½%, and this will apply whether or not 

the transfer is affected in the United Kingdom and whether or not the parties to it 

are resident or situated in the United Kingdom. 

United Kingdom 

A charge of stamp duty or SDRT at the rates of 1½% of the consideration (or, 

in some circumstances, the value of the shares concerned) will arise on a transfer 

or issue of Ordinary Shares to the Depositary or to certain persons providing a 

clearance service (or their nominees or agents) for the conversion into ADRs and 

will generally be payable by the Depositary or person providing clearance service. 

In accordance with the terms of the Deposit Agreement, any tax or duty payable 

by the Depositary on deposits of Ordinary Shares will be charged by the 

Depositary to the party to whom ADRs are delivered against such deposits. 

No liability for stamp duty or SDRT will arise on any transfer of, or agreement to 

transfer, an ADS or beneficial ownership of an ADS, provided that the ADS and 

any instrument of transfer or written agreement to transfer remains at all times 

outside the United Kingdom, and provided further that any instrument of transfer 

or written agreement to transfer is not executed in the United Kingdom and the 

transfer does not relate to any matter or thing done or to be done in the United 

Kingdom (the location of the custodian as a holder of Ordinary Shares not being 

relevant in this context). In any other case, any transfer of, or agreement to 

transfer, an ADS or beneficial ownership of an ADS could, depending on all the 

circumstances of the transfer, give rise to a charge to stamp duty or SDRT. 

Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Share capital continued 

Taxation information for shareholders 

Purchase of Ordinary Shares 

on behalf of the Company 

The share buy-back programme was suspended in November 2008, in light of 

conditions in the financial markets. The programme is kept under review. The 

Company will seek a renewal of its permission from shareholders to purchase up 

to 10% of its own shares at the AGM on 11 April 2013. As at 31 December 2012, 

68,240,200 (2011 – 68,240,200) Ordinary Shares had been purchased under the 

share buy-back programme that commenced in February 2007. No shares were 

purchased in the years between 2009 to 2012. 

Exchange controls and other limitations affecting 

security holders 

There are no UK governmental laws, decrees or regulations that restrict the 

export or import of capital or that affect the payment of dividends, interest or 

other payments to non-resident holders of Smith & Nephew’s securities, except 

for certain restrictions imposed from time to time by Her Majesty’s Treasury of 

the United Kingdom pursuant to legislation, such as the United Nations Act 1946 

and the Emergency Laws Act 1964, against the government or residents of 

certain countries. 

There are no limitations, either under the laws of the UK or under the articles of 

association of Smith & Nephew, restricting the right of non-UK residents to hold 

or to exercise voting rights in respect of Ordinary Shares, except that where any 

overseas shareholder has not provided to the Company a UK address for the 

The comments below are of a general and summary nature and are based on the 

Group’s understanding of certain aspects of current UK and US federal income tax 

law and practice relevant to the ADSs and Ordinary Shares not in ADS form. The 

comments address the material US and UK tax consequences generally 

applicable to a person who is the beneficial owner of ADSs or Ordinary Shares 

and who, for US federal income tax purposes, is a citizen or resident of the United 

States, a corporation (or other entity taxable as a corporation) created or organised 

in or under the laws of the United States, or an estate or trust the income of which 

is included in gross income for US federal income tax purposes regardless of its 

source (each a ‘US Holder’). The comments set out below do not purport to 

address all tax consequences of the ownership of ADSs or Ordinary Shares which 

may be material to a particular holder and in particular do not deal with the position 

of shareholders who directly or indirectly own 10% or more of the Company’s 

issued Ordinary Shares. This discussion does not apply to (i) persons whose 

holding of ADSs or Ordinary Shares is effectively connected with or pertains to 

either a permanent establishment in the United Kingdom through which a US 

Holder carries on a business in the United Kingdom or a fixed base from which 

a US Holder performs independent personal services in the United Kingdom, or 

(ii) persons whose registered address is inside the UK. This discussion does not 

apply to certain investors subject to special rules, such as certain financial 

institutions, tax-exempt entities, insurance companies, broker-dealers, traders in 

securities that elect to mark to market, partnerships or other entities treated as 

partnerships for US federal income tax purposes, US Holders holding ADSs or 

Ordinary Shares as part of a hedging, conversion or other integrated transaction or 

whose functional currency for US federal income tax purposes is other than the US 

Dollar and US Holders liable for alternative minimum tax. In addition, the 

service of notices, the Company is under no obligation to send any notice or other 

comments below do not address US state, local or non-US (other than UK) taxes. 

document to an overseas address. It is, however, the current practice of the 

Company to send every notice or other document to all shareholders regardless 

of the country recorded in the register of members, with the exception of details 

The summary deals only with US Holders who hold ADSs or Ordinary Shares as 

capital assets. The summary is based on current UK and US law and practice 

which is subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect. US Holders are 

of the Company’s dividend re-investment plan, which are not sent to shareholders 

recommended to consult their own tax advisers as to the particular tax 

with recorded addresses in the US and Canada.

consequences to them of the ownership of ADSs or Ordinary Shares. 

The Company believes, and this discussion assumes, that the Company 

was not a passive foreign investment company for its taxable year ended 

31 December 2012. 

This discussion is based in part on representations by the depositary and 

assumes that each obligation under the deposit agreement and any related 

agreement will be performed in accordance with its terms. For purposes of US 

federal income tax law, US Holders of ADSs will generally be treated as owners 

of the Ordinary Shares represented by the ADSs. However, the US Treasury has 

expressed concerns that parties to whom depositary shares are released before 

shares are delivered to the depositary (‘pre-released’) may be taking actions that 

are inconsistent with the claiming of foreign tax credits by owners of depositary 

shares. Such actions would also be inconsistent with the claiming of the reduced 

rate of tax, described below, applicable to dividends received by certain non-

corporate US Holders. Accordingly, the availability of the reduced tax rate for 

dividends received by certain non-corporate US Holders of ADSs could be 

affected by actions that may be taken by parties to whom ADSs are pre-released. 

Taxation of dividends in the United Kingdom 
and the United States 
The UK does not currently impose a withholding tax on dividends paid by a UK 
corporation, such as the Company. 

Distributions paid by the Company will be treated for US federal income tax 
purposes as foreign source ordinary dividend income to a US Holder to the extent 
paid out of the Company’s current or accumulated earnings and profits as 
determined for US federal income tax purposes. Such dividends will not be eligible 
for the dividends-received deduction generally allowed to corporate US Holders. 

Dividends paid to certain non-corporate US Holders of Ordinary Shares or ADSs 
may be subject to US federal income tax at lower rates than other types of ordinary 
income if certain conditions are met. Non-corporate US Holders should consult 
their own tax advisers to determine whether they are subject to any special rules 
that limit their ability to be taxed at these favourable rates. 

Taxation of capital gains 
US Holders, who are not resident or ordinarily resident for tax purposes in the UK, 
will not generally be liable for UK capital gains tax on any capital gain realised upon 
the sale or other disposition of ADSs or Ordinary Shares unless the ADSs or 
Ordinary Shares are held in connection with a trade carried on in the UK through 
a permanent establishment (or in the case of individuals, through a branch 
or agency). Furthermore, UK resident individuals who acquire ADSs or Ordinary 
Shares before becoming temporarily non-UK residents may remain subject 
to UK taxation of capital gains on gains realised while non-resident. 

For US federal income tax purposes, gains or losses realised upon a taxable sale 
or other disposition of ADSs or Ordinary Shares by US Holders generally will be US 
source capital gains or losses and will be long-term capital gains or losses if the 
ADSs or Ordinary Shares were held for more than one year. The amount of a US 
Holder’s gain or loss will be equal to the difference between the amount realised 
on the sale or other disposition and such holder’s tax basis in the ADSs, or 
Ordinary Shares, determined in US Dollars. 

Inheritance and estate taxes 
The HM Revenue & Customs imposes inheritance tax on capital transfers which 
occur on death, and in the seven years preceding death. The HM Revenue & 
Customs considers that the US/UK Double Taxation Convention on Estate and Gift 
Tax applies to inheritance tax. Consequently, a US citizen who is domiciled in the 
United States and is not a UK national or domiciled in the United Kingdom will not 
be subject to UK inheritance tax in respect of ADSs and Ordinary Shares. A UK 
national who is domiciled in the United States will be subject to both UK 
inheritance tax and US federal estate tax but will be entitled to a credit for US 
federal estate tax charged in respect of ADSs and Ordinary Shares in computing 
the liability to UK inheritance tax. Conversely, a US citizen who is domiciled or 
deemed domiciled in the United Kingdom will be entitled to a credit for UK 
inheritance tax charged in respect of ADSs and Ordinary Shares in computing the 
liability for US federal estate tax. Special rules apply where ADSs and Ordinary 
Shares are business property of a permanent establishment of an enterprise 
situated in the United Kingdom. 

155

US information reporting and backup withholding 
A US Holder may be subject to US information reporting and backup withholding 
on dividends paid on or the proceeds of sales of ADSs or Ordinary Shares made 
within the US or through certain US-related financial intermediaries, unless the US 
Holder is an exempt recipient or, in the case of backup withholding, provides a 
correct US taxpayer identification number and certain other conditions are met. 
US backup withholding may apply if there has been a notification from the US 
Internal Revenue Service of a failure to report all interest or dividends. 

Any backup withholding deducted may be credited against the US Holder’s US 
federal income tax liability, and, where the backup withholding exceeds the actual 
liability, the US Holder may obtain a refund by timely filing the appropriate refund 
claim with the US Internal Revenue Service. 

Certain US Holders who are individuals (and under proposed Treasury regulations, 
certain entities) may be required to report information relating to securities issued 
by a non-US person (or foreign accounts through which the securities are held), 
subject to certain exceptions (including an exception for securities held in 
accounts maintained by US financial institutions). US Holders should consult their 
tax advisers regarding their reporting obligations with respect to the Ordinary 
Shares or ADSs. 

UK stamp duty and stamp duty reserve tax 
UK stamp duty is charged on documents and in particular instruments for the 
transfer of registered ownership of Ordinary Shares. Transfers of Ordinary 
Shares in certificated form will generally be subject to UK stamp duty at the rate 
of ½% of the consideration given for the transfer with the duty rounded up to the 
nearest £5. 

UK stamp duty reserve tax (‘SDRT’) arises when there is an agreement to transfer 
shares in UK companies ‘for consideration in money or money’s worth’, and so an 
agreement to transfer Ordinary Shares for money or other consideration may give 
rise to a charge to SDRT at the rate of ½% (rounded up to the nearest penny). 
The charge of SDRT will be cancelled, and any SDRT already paid will be refunded, 
if within six years of the agreement an instrument of transfer is produced 
to HM Revenue & Customs and the appropriate stamp duty paid. 

Transfers of Ordinary Shares into CREST (an electronic transfer system) are exempt 
from stamp duty so long as the transferee is a member of CREST who will hold the 
Ordinary Shares as a nominee for the transferor and the transfer is in a form that 
will ensure that the securities become held in uncertificated form within CREST. 
Paperless transfers of Ordinary Shares within CREST for consideration in money or 
money’s worth are liable to SDRT rather than stamp duty. SDRT on relevant 
transactions will be collected by CREST at ½%, and this will apply whether or not 
the transfer is affected in the United Kingdom and whether or not the parties to it 
are resident or situated in the United Kingdom. 

United Kingdom 
A charge of stamp duty or SDRT at the rates of 1½% of the consideration (or, 
in some circumstances, the value of the shares concerned) will arise on a transfer 
or issue of Ordinary Shares to the Depositary or to certain persons providing a 
clearance service (or their nominees or agents) for the conversion into ADRs and 
will generally be payable by the Depositary or person providing clearance service. 
In accordance with the terms of the Deposit Agreement, any tax or duty payable 
by the Depositary on deposits of Ordinary Shares will be charged by the 
Depositary to the party to whom ADRs are delivered against such deposits. 

No liability for stamp duty or SDRT will arise on any transfer of, or agreement to 
transfer, an ADS or beneficial ownership of an ADS, provided that the ADS and 
any instrument of transfer or written agreement to transfer remains at all times 
outside the United Kingdom, and provided further that any instrument of transfer 
or written agreement to transfer is not executed in the United Kingdom and the 
transfer does not relate to any matter or thing done or to be done in the United 
Kingdom (the location of the custodian as a holder of Ordinary Shares not being 
relevant in this context). In any other case, any transfer of, or agreement to 
transfer, an ADS or beneficial ownership of an ADS could, depending on all the 
circumstances of the transfer, give rise to a charge to stamp duty or SDRT. 

015914_Smith&Nephew_AR12_p89-164.indd   155

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156

Selected financial data 

Income statement 

Revenue 

Cost of goods sold 

Gross Profit 

Selling, general and administrative expenses 

Research and development expenses 

Operating profit 

Net interest receivable/(payable) 

Other finance (costs)/income 

Share of results of associates 

Profit on disposal of net assets held for sale 

Profit before taxation 

Taxation 

Attributable profit for the year 

Earnings per Ordinary Share 

Basic 

Diluted 

Adjusted attributable profit 

Attributable profit for the year 

Acquisition related costs 

Restructuring and rationalisation expenses 

Legal settlement 

Amortisation of acquisition intangibles and impairments 

Profit on disposal of net assets held for sale 

Taxation on excluded items 

Adjusted attributable profit 

Adjusted basic earnings per Ordinary Share (‘EPSA’) (i) 

Adjusted diluted earnings per Ordinary Share (ii)

2012
$ million

2011
$ million

2010 
$ million 

2009 
$ million 

2008
$ million

2012

$ million 

2011

$ million

2010 

$ million 

2009

$ million

2008

$ million

4,137

(1,070)

3,067

(2,050)

(171)

846

2

(3)

4

251

1,100

(371)

729

81.3¢

80.9¢

729

11

65

–

43

(251)

82

679

75.7¢

75.4¢

4,270 

(1,140)

3,130 

(2,101)

(167)

862 

(8)

(6)

–

–

848 

(266)

582 

65.3¢

65.0¢

3,962  

(1,031) 

2,931  

(1,860) 

(151) 

920  

(15) 

(10) 

– 

– 

895  

(280) 

615  

3,772  

(1,030) 

2,742  

(1,864) 

(155) 

723  

(40) 

(15) 

2  

–  

670  

(198) 

472  

69.3¢ 

69.2¢ 

53.4¢ 

53.3¢ 

3,801 

(1,077)

2,724 

(1,942)

(152)

630 

(66)

(1)

1 

–

564 

(187)

377 

42.6¢

42.4¢

582 

615  

472  

377 

–

40 

23 

36 

–

(17)

664 

74.5¢

74.2¢

– 

15  

–  

34  

– 

(10) 

654  

73.6¢ 

73.6¢ 

26  

42  

– 

66  

– 

(26) 

580  

65.6¢ 

65.5¢ 

61 

34 

–

51 

–

(30)

493 

55.6¢

55.4¢

(i)  Adjusted basic earnings per Ordinary Share is calculated by dividing adjusted attributable profit by the average number of shares. 

(ii)  Adjusted diluted earnings per Ordinary Share is calculated by dividing adjusted attributable profit by the diluted number of shares. 

015914_Smith&Nephew_AR12_p89-164.indd   156

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Group balance sheet 

Non-current assets 

Current assets 

Assets held for sale 

Total assets 

Share capital 

Share premium 

Treasury shares 

Total equity 

Non-current liabilities 

Current liabilities 

Retained earnings and other reserves 

Liabilities directly associated with assets held for sale 

Total liabilities 

Total equity and liabilities 

Group cash flow statement 

Cash generated from operations 

Net interest paid 

Income taxes paid 

plant and equipment) 

Acquisitions and disposals 

Proceeds on disposal of net assets held for sale 

Investment in associate 

Cash received from Plus settlement 

Facility fee paid 

Proceeds from own shares 

Equity dividends paid 

Issue of ordinary capital and treasury shares purchased 

Exchange adjustments 

Opening (net debt)/net cash 

Closing net debt 

Selected financial ratios 

Net cash inflow from operating activities 

Capital expenditure (including trade investments and net of disposals of property, 

1,184

1,135 

1,111  

1,030 

3,498

2,144

–

5,642

193

488

(735)

3,938

3,884

828

930

–

1,758

5,642

(4)

(278)

902

(265)

(782)

103

(10)

–

–

6

(186)

77

(155)

5

(138)

(288)

7%

26.1¢

4.1%

6.4%

2,542 

2,080 

125 

4,747 

191 

413 

(766)

3,349 

3,187 

422 

1,119 

19

1,560 

4,747 

(8)

(285)

842 

(321)

(33)

–

–

–

–

7 

(146)

11 

360 

(6)

(492)

(138)

2,579  

2,154  

–  

4,733  

191  

396  

(778) 

2,964  

2,773  

1,046  

914  

–  

1,960  

4,733  

(17) 

(235) 

859  

(307) 

–  

– 

– 

–  

–  

8  

(132) 

10  

438  

13  

(943) 

(492) 

2,480 

2,071 

14 

4,565 

190 

382 

(794)

2,401 

2,179 

1,523 

863 

–

2,386 

4,565 

(41)

(270)

719 

(318)

(25)

–

–

–

137 

10 

(120)

7 

410 

(21)

(1,332)

(943)

43%

14.39¢ 

4.1%

8.4%

2,523 

1,985 

–

4,508 

190 

375 

(823)

1,957 

1,699 

1,841 

968 

–

2,809 

4,508 

815 

(63)

(186)

566 

(289)

(16)

–

–

–

2 

4 

(109)

(174)

(16)

(6)

(1,310)

(1,332)

78%

13.08¢ 

4.0%

7.7%

Gearing (closing net debt as a percentage of total equity) 

Dividends per Ordinary Share (iii) 

Research and development costs to Revenue 

Capital expenditure (including intangibles but excluding goodwill) to revenue

4%

17.40¢ 

3.9%

7.5%

18% 

15.82¢  

3.8% 

7.7% 

(iii)  The Board has proposed a final dividend of 16.20 US cents per share which together with the first interim dividend of 9.90 US cents makes a total for 2012 of 26.10 US cents. 

Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Selected financial data 

Income statement 

Revenue 

Cost of goods sold 

Gross Profit 

Selling, general and administrative expenses 

Research and development expenses 

Operating profit 

Net interest receivable/(payable) 

Other finance (costs)/income 

Share of results of associates 

Profit on disposal of net assets held for sale 

Profit before taxation 

Taxation 

Attributable profit for the year 

Earnings per Ordinary Share 

Basic 

Diluted 

Adjusted attributable profit 

Attributable profit for the year 

Acquisition related costs 

Restructuring and rationalisation expenses 

Legal settlement 

Amortisation of acquisition intangibles and impairments 

Profit on disposal of net assets held for sale 

Taxation on excluded items 

Adjusted attributable profit 

Adjusted basic earnings per Ordinary Share (‘EPSA’) (i) 

Adjusted diluted earnings per Ordinary Share (ii)

4,137

(1,070)

3,067

(2,050)

(171)

846

2

(3)

4

251

1,100

(371)

729

81.3¢

80.9¢

729

11

65

–

43

(251)

82

679

75.7¢

75.4¢

4,270 

(1,140)

3,130 

(2,101)

(167)

862 

(8)

(6)

–

–

848 

(266)

582 

65.3¢

65.0¢

–

40 

23 

36 

–

(17)

664 

74.5¢

74.2¢

3,962  

(1,031) 

2,931  

(1,860) 

(151) 

920  

(15) 

(10) 

– 

– 

895  

(280) 

615  

– 

15  

–  

34  

– 

(10) 

654  

73.6¢ 

73.6¢ 

3,772  

(1,030) 

2,742  

(1,864) 

(155) 

723  

(40) 

(15) 

2  

–  

670  

(198) 

472  

26  

42  

66  

– 

– 

(26) 

580  

65.6¢ 

65.5¢ 

3,801 

(1,077)

2,724 

(1,942)

(152)

630 

(66)

(1)

1 

–

564 

(187)

377 

42.6¢

42.4¢

61 

34 

51 

–

–

(30)

493 

55.6¢

55.4¢

69.3¢ 

69.2¢ 

53.4¢ 

53.3¢ 

582 

615  

472  

377 

(i)  Adjusted basic earnings per Ordinary Share is calculated by dividing adjusted attributable profit by the average number of shares. 

(ii)  Adjusted diluted earnings per Ordinary Share is calculated by dividing adjusted attributable profit by the diluted number of shares. 

2012

$ million

2011

$ million

2010 

$ million 

2009 

$ million 

2008

$ million

2012
$ million 

2011
$ million

2010 
$ million 

2009
$ million

2008
$ million

157

Group balance sheet 

Non-current assets 

Current assets 

Assets held for sale 

Total assets 

Share capital 

Share premium 

Treasury shares 

Retained earnings and other reserves 

Total equity 

Non-current liabilities 

Current liabilities 

Liabilities directly associated with assets held for sale 

Total liabilities 

Total equity and liabilities 

Group cash flow statement 

Cash generated from operations 

Net interest paid 

Income taxes paid 

Net cash inflow from operating activities 

Capital expenditure (including trade investments and net of disposals of property, 
plant and equipment) 

Acquisitions and disposals 

Proceeds on disposal of net assets held for sale 

Investment in associate 

Cash received from Plus settlement 

Facility fee paid 

Proceeds from own shares 

Equity dividends paid 

Issue of ordinary capital and treasury shares purchased 

Exchange adjustments 

Opening (net debt)/net cash 

Closing net debt 

Selected financial ratios 

Gearing (closing net debt as a percentage of total equity) 

Dividends per Ordinary Share (iii) 

Research and development costs to Revenue 

Capital expenditure (including intangibles but excluding goodwill) to revenue

3,498

2,144

–

5,642

193

488

(735)

3,938

3,884

828

930

–

1,758

5,642

2,542 

2,080 

125 

4,747 

191 

413 

(766)

3,349 

3,187 

422 

1,119 

19

1,560 

4,747 

2,579  

2,154  

–  

4,733  

191  

396  

(778) 

2,964  

2,773  

1,046  

914  

–  

1,960  

4,733  

2,480 

2,071 

14 

4,565 

190 

382 

(794)

2,401 

2,179 

1,523 

863 

–

2,386 

4,565 

1,184

1,135 

1,111  

1,030 

(4)

(278)

902

(265)

(782)

103

(10)

–

–

6

(186)

77

(155)

5

(138)

(288)

7%

26.1¢

4.1%

6.4%

(8)

(285)

842 

(321)

(33)

–

–

–

–

7 

(146)

11 

360 

(6)

(492)

(138)

(17) 

(235) 

859  

(307) 

–  

– 

– 

–  

–  

8  

(132) 

10  

438  

13  

(943) 

(492) 

4%

17.40¢ 

3.9%

7.5%

18% 

15.82¢  

3.8% 

7.7% 

(41)

(270)

719 

(318)

(25)

–

–

137 

–

10 

(120)

7 

410 

(21)

(1,332)

(943)

43%

14.39¢ 

4.1%

8.4%

2,523 

1,985 

–

4,508 

190 

375 

(823)

1,957 

1,699 

1,841 

968 

–

2,809 

4,508 

815 

(63)

(186)

566 

(289)

(16)

–

–

–

2 

4 

(109)

(174)

(16)

(6)

(1,310)

(1,332)

78%

13.08¢ 

4.0%

7.7%

(iii)  The Board has proposed a final dividend of 16.20 US cents per share which together with the first interim dividend of 9.90 US cents makes a total for 2012 of 26.10 US cents. 

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158

Articles of association  

The following summarises certain material rights of holders of the Company’s 
Ordinary Shares under the material provisions of the Company’s articles of 
association and English law. This summary is qualified in its entirety by reference 
to the Companies Act and the Company’s articles of association. In the following 
description, a ‘shareholder’ is the person registered in the Company’s register 
of members as the holder of an Ordinary Share. 

The Company is incorporated under the name Smith & Nephew plc and is 
registered in England and Wales with registered number 324357. 

The Company’s Ordinary Shares may be held in certificated or uncertificated 
form. No holder of the Company’s shares will be required to make additional 
contributions of capital in respect of the Company’s shares in the future. 
In accordance with English law the Company’s Ordinary Shares rank equally. 

Directors 
Under the Company’s articles of association, a Director may not vote in respect 
of any contract, arrangement, transaction or proposal in which he, or any person 
connected with him, has any material interest other than by virtue of his interests 
in securities of, or otherwise in or through, the Company. This is subject to certain 
exceptions relating to proposals (a) indemnifying him in respect of obligations 
incurred on behalf of the Company, (b) indemnifying a third party in respect of 
obligations of the Company for which the Director has assumed responsibility 
under an indemnity or guarantee, (c) relating to an offer of securities in which he 
will be interested as an underwriter, (d) concerning another body corporate in 
which the Director is beneficially interested in less than 1% of the issued shares 
of any class of shares of such a body corporate, (e) relating to an employee benefit 
in which the Director will share equally with other employees and (f) relating to any 
insurance that the Company is empowered to purchase for the benefit of Directors 
of the Company in respect of actions undertaken as Directors (and/or officers) 
of the Company. 

A Director shall not vote or be counted in any quorum present at a meeting 
in relation to a resolution on which he is not entitled to vote. 

The Directors are empowered to exercise all the powers of the Company to 
borrow money, subject to the limitation that the aggregate amount of all monies 
borrowed after deducting cash and current asset investments by the Company 
and its subsidiaries shall not exceed the sum of $6,500,000,000. 

Any Director who has been appointed by the Directors since the previous Annual 
General Meeting of shareholders, either to fill a casual vacancy or as an additional 
Director holds office only until the conclusion of the next Annual General Meeting 
and then shall be eligible for re-election by the shareholders. The other Directors 
retire and are eligible for re-appointment at the third Annual General Meeting 
after the meeting at which they were last re-appointed. If not re-appointed a 
Director retiring at a meeting shall retain office until the meeting appoints 
someone in his place, or if it does not do so, until the conclusion of the meeting. 
The Directors are subject to removal with or without cause by the Board or the 
shareholders. Directors are not required to hold any shares of the Company by 
way of qualification. 

Under the Company’s articles of association and English law, a Director may be 
indemnified out of the assets of the Company against liabilities he may sustain or 
incur in the execution of his duties. 

Rights attaching to Ordinary Shares 
Under English law, dividends are payable on the Company’s Ordinary Shares 
only out of profits available for distribution, as determined in accordance with 
accounting principles generally accepted in the United Kingdom and by the 
Companies Act 2006. Holders of the Company’s Ordinary Shares are entitled to 
receive final dividends as may be declared by the Directors and approved by the 
shareholders in general meeting, rateable according to the amounts paid up on 
such shares, provided that the dividend cannot exceed the amount 
recommended by the Directors. 

The Company’s Board of Directors may declare such interim dividends as appear 
to them to be justified by the Company’s financial position. If authorised by an 
ordinary resolution of the shareholders, the Board may also direct payment of a 
dividend in whole or in part by the distribution of specific assets (and in particular 
of paid up shares or debentures of the Company). 

Any dividend unclaimed after 12 years from the date the dividend was declared, 
or became due for payment, will be forfeited and will revert to the Company. 

There were no material modifications to the rights of shareholders under the 
Articles during 2012. 

Voting rights of Ordinary Shares 
Voting at any general meeting of shareholders is by a show of hands unless a poll, 
which is a written vote, is duly demanded and held. On a show of hands, every 
shareholder who is present in person at a general meeting has one vote 
regardless of the number of shares held. On a poll, every shareholder who is 
present in person or by proxy has one vote for each Ordinary Share held by that 
shareholder. A poll may be demanded by any of the following: 

–  the chairman of the meeting; 
–  at least five shareholders present or by proxy entitled to vote on the resolution; 

–  any shareholder or shareholders representing in the aggregate not less than 
one-tenth of the total voting rights of all shareholders entitled to vote on the 
resolution; or 

–  any shareholder or shareholders holding shares conferring a right to vote on 
the resolution on which there have been paid-up sums in aggregate equal to 
not less than one-tenth of the total sum paid up on all the shares conferring 
that right. 

A form of proxy will be treated as giving the proxy the authority to demand a poll, 
or to join others in demanding one, as above. 

The necessary quorum for a general meeting is two shareholders present in 
person or by proxy carrying the right to vote upon the business to be transacted. 

Matters are transacted at general meetings of the Company by the 
processing and passing of resolutions of which there are two kinds; ordinary 
or special resolutions: 

–  Ordinary resolutions include resolutions for the re-election of Directors, the 

approval of financial statements, the declaration of dividends (other than interim 
dividends), the appointment and re-appointment of auditors or the grant of 
authority to allot shares. An ordinary resolution requires the affirmative vote 
of a majority of the votes of those persons voting at the meetings at which there 
is a quorum. 

–  Special resolutions include resolutions amending the Company’s articles 
of association, dis-applying statutory pre-emption rights or changing the 
Company’s name; modifying the rights of any class of the Company’s shares at 
a meeting of the holders of such class or relating to certain matters concerning 
the Company’s winding up. A special resolution requires the affirmative vote of 
not less than three-quarters of the votes of the persons voting at the meeting at 
which there is a quorum. 

Annual General Meetings must be convened upon advance written notice of 
21 days. Other general meetings must be convened upon advance written notice 
of at least 14 clear days. The days of delivery or receipt of notice are not included. 
The notice must specify the nature of the business to be transacted. Meetings 
are convened by the Board of Directors. Members with 5% of the Ordinary Share 
capital of the Company may requisition the Board to convene a meeting. 

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Variation of rights 

Limitations on voting and shareholding 

If, at any time, the Company’s share capital is divided into different classes of 

There are no limitations imposed by English law or the Company’s articles of 

shares, the rights attached to any class may be varied, subject to the provisions 

association on the right of non-residents or foreign persons to hold or vote the 

of the Companies Act, with the consent in writing of holders of three-quarters in 

Company’s Ordinary Shares or ADSs, other than the limitations that would 

nominal value of the issued shares of that class or upon the adoption of a special 

generally apply to all of the Company’s shareholders. 

resolution passed at a separate meeting of the holders of the shares of that class. 

At every such separate meeting, all the provisions of the articles of association 

relating to proceedings at a general meeting apply, except that the quorum is to 

be the number of persons (which must be two or more) who hold or represent by 

proxy not less than one-third in nominal value of the issued shares of the class 

and at any such meeting a poll may be demanded in writing by any person or 

their proxy who hold shares of that class. Where a person is present by proxy 

or proxies, he is treated as holding only the shares in respect of which the proxies 

are authorised to exercise voting rights. 

Rights in a winding-up 

Except as the Company’s shareholders have agreed or may otherwise agree, 

upon the Company’s winding up, the balance of assets available for distribution: 

–  after the payment of all creditors including certain preferential creditors, whether 

statutorily preferred creditors or normal creditors; and 

–  subject to any special rights attaching to any other class of shares; 

is to be distributed among the holders of Ordinary Shares according to the 

amounts paid-up on the shares held by them. This distribution is generally to be 

made in US Dollars. A liquidator may, however, upon the adoption of any 

extraordinary resolution of the shareholders and any other sanction required by 

law, divide among the shareholders the whole or any part of the Company’s 

assets in kind. 

Transfers of shares 

form which: 

The Board may refuse to register the transfer of shares held in certificated 

–  are not fully paid (provided that it shall not exercise this discretion in such a way 

as to prevent stock market dealings in the shares of that class from taking place 

on an open and proper basis); 

–  are not duly stamped or duly certified or otherwise shown to the satisfaction of 

the Board to be exempt from stamp duty, lodged at the Transfer Office or at 

such other place as the Board may appoint and (save in the case of a transfer 

by a person to whom no certificate was issued in respect of the shares in 

question) accompanied by the certificate for the shares to which it relates, and 

such other evidence as the Board may reasonably require to show the right of 

the transferor to make the transfer and, if the instrument of transfer is executed 

by some other person on his behalf, the authority of that person so to do; 

–  are in respect of more than one class of shares; or 

–  are in favour of more than four transferees. 

Deferred shares 

Following the redenomination of share capital on 23 January 2006 the Ordinary 

Shares’ nominal value became 20 US cents each. There were no changes to the 

rights or obligations of the Ordinary Shares. In order to comply with the Companies 

Act 2006, a new class of sterling shares was created, Deferred Shares, of which 

£50,000 were issued and allotted in 2006 as fully paid to the Chief Executive 

Officer though the Board reserves the right to transfer them to another member 

of the Board should it so wish. These Deferred Shares have no voting or dividend 

rights and on winding up only are entitled to repayment at nominal value only if 

all Ordinary shareholders have received the nominal value of their shares plus an 

additional $1,000 each. 

Amendments 

The Company does not have any special rules about amendments to its articles 

of association beyond those imposed by law.

Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
Variation of rights 
If, at any time, the Company’s share capital is divided into different classes of 
shares, the rights attached to any class may be varied, subject to the provisions 
of the Companies Act, with the consent in writing of holders of three-quarters in 
nominal value of the issued shares of that class or upon the adoption of a special 
resolution passed at a separate meeting of the holders of the shares of that class. 
At every such separate meeting, all the provisions of the articles of association 
relating to proceedings at a general meeting apply, except that the quorum is to 
be the number of persons (which must be two or more) who hold or represent by 
proxy not less than one-third in nominal value of the issued shares of the class 
and at any such meeting a poll may be demanded in writing by any person or 
their proxy who hold shares of that class. Where a person is present by proxy 
or proxies, he is treated as holding only the shares in respect of which the proxies 
are authorised to exercise voting rights. 

Rights in a winding-up 
Except as the Company’s shareholders have agreed or may otherwise agree, 
upon the Company’s winding up, the balance of assets available for distribution: 

–  after the payment of all creditors including certain preferential creditors, whether 

statutorily preferred creditors or normal creditors; and 

–  subject to any special rights attaching to any other class of shares; 

is to be distributed among the holders of Ordinary Shares according to the 
amounts paid-up on the shares held by them. This distribution is generally to be 
made in US Dollars. A liquidator may, however, upon the adoption of any 
extraordinary resolution of the shareholders and any other sanction required by 
law, divide among the shareholders the whole or any part of the Company’s 
assets in kind. 

159

Limitations on voting and shareholding 
There are no limitations imposed by English law or the Company’s articles of 
association on the right of non-residents or foreign persons to hold or vote the 
Company’s Ordinary Shares or ADSs, other than the limitations that would 
generally apply to all of the Company’s shareholders. 

Transfers of shares 
The Board may refuse to register the transfer of shares held in certificated 
form which: 

–  are not fully paid (provided that it shall not exercise this discretion in such a way 
as to prevent stock market dealings in the shares of that class from taking place 
on an open and proper basis); 

–  are not duly stamped or duly certified or otherwise shown to the satisfaction of 
the Board to be exempt from stamp duty, lodged at the Transfer Office or at 
such other place as the Board may appoint and (save in the case of a transfer 
by a person to whom no certificate was issued in respect of the shares in 
question) accompanied by the certificate for the shares to which it relates, and 
such other evidence as the Board may reasonably require to show the right of 
the transferor to make the transfer and, if the instrument of transfer is executed 
by some other person on his behalf, the authority of that person so to do; 

–  are in respect of more than one class of shares; or 
–  are in favour of more than four transferees. 

Deferred shares 
Following the redenomination of share capital on 23 January 2006 the Ordinary 
Shares’ nominal value became 20 US cents each. There were no changes to the 
rights or obligations of the Ordinary Shares. In order to comply with the Companies 
Act 2006, a new class of sterling shares was created, Deferred Shares, of which 
£50,000 were issued and allotted in 2006 as fully paid to the Chief Executive 
Officer though the Board reserves the right to transfer them to another member 
of the Board should it so wish. These Deferred Shares have no voting or dividend 
rights and on winding up only are entitled to repayment at nominal value only if 
all Ordinary shareholders have received the nominal value of their shares plus an 
additional $1,000 each. 

Amendments 
The Company does not have any special rules about amendments to its articles 
of association beyond those imposed by law.

Articles of association  

The following summarises certain material rights of holders of the Company’s 

Ordinary Shares under the material provisions of the Company’s articles of 

association and English law. This summary is qualified in its entirety by reference 

to the Companies Act and the Company’s articles of association. In the following 

description, a ‘shareholder’ is the person registered in the Company’s register 

of members as the holder of an Ordinary Share. 

The Company is incorporated under the name Smith & Nephew plc and is 

registered in England and Wales with registered number 324357. 

The Company’s Ordinary Shares may be held in certificated or uncertificated 

form. No holder of the Company’s shares will be required to make additional 

contributions of capital in respect of the Company’s shares in the future. 

In accordance with English law the Company’s Ordinary Shares rank equally. 

Directors 

Under the Company’s articles of association, a Director may not vote in respect 

of any contract, arrangement, transaction or proposal in which he, or any person 

connected with him, has any material interest other than by virtue of his interests 

in securities of, or otherwise in or through, the Company. This is subject to certain 

exceptions relating to proposals (a) indemnifying him in respect of obligations 

incurred on behalf of the Company, (b) indemnifying a third party in respect of 

obligations of the Company for which the Director has assumed responsibility 

under an indemnity or guarantee, (c) relating to an offer of securities in which he 

will be interested as an underwriter, (d) concerning another body corporate in 

which the Director is beneficially interested in less than 1% of the issued shares 

of any class of shares of such a body corporate, (e) relating to an employee benefit 

in which the Director will share equally with other employees and (f) relating to any 

insurance that the Company is empowered to purchase for the benefit of Directors 

of the Company in respect of actions undertaken as Directors (and/or officers) 

of the Company. 

A Director shall not vote or be counted in any quorum present at a meeting 

in relation to a resolution on which he is not entitled to vote. 

The Directors are empowered to exercise all the powers of the Company to 

borrow money, subject to the limitation that the aggregate amount of all monies 

borrowed after deducting cash and current asset investments by the Company 

and its subsidiaries shall not exceed the sum of $6,500,000,000. 

Rights attaching to Ordinary Shares 

Under English law, dividends are payable on the Company’s Ordinary Shares 

only out of profits available for distribution, as determined in accordance with 

accounting principles generally accepted in the United Kingdom and by the 

Companies Act 2006. Holders of the Company’s Ordinary Shares are entitled to 

receive final dividends as may be declared by the Directors and approved by the 

shareholders in general meeting, rateable according to the amounts paid up on 

such shares, provided that the dividend cannot exceed the amount 

recommended by the Directors. 

The Company’s Board of Directors may declare such interim dividends as appear 

to them to be justified by the Company’s financial position. If authorised by an 

ordinary resolution of the shareholders, the Board may also direct payment of a 

dividend in whole or in part by the distribution of specific assets (and in particular 

of paid up shares or debentures of the Company). 

Any dividend unclaimed after 12 years from the date the dividend was declared, 

or became due for payment, will be forfeited and will revert to the Company. 

There were no material modifications to the rights of shareholders under the 

Articles during 2012. 

Voting rights of Ordinary Shares 

Voting at any general meeting of shareholders is by a show of hands unless a poll, 

which is a written vote, is duly demanded and held. On a show of hands, every 

shareholder who is present in person at a general meeting has one vote 

regardless of the number of shares held. On a poll, every shareholder who is 

present in person or by proxy has one vote for each Ordinary Share held by that 

shareholder. A poll may be demanded by any of the following: 

–  the chairman of the meeting; 

–  at least five shareholders present or by proxy entitled to vote on the resolution; 

–  any shareholder or shareholders representing in the aggregate not less than 

one-tenth of the total voting rights of all shareholders entitled to vote on the 

resolution; or 

–  any shareholder or shareholders holding shares conferring a right to vote on 

the resolution on which there have been paid-up sums in aggregate equal to 

not less than one-tenth of the total sum paid up on all the shares conferring 

Any Director who has been appointed by the Directors since the previous Annual 

General Meeting of shareholders, either to fill a casual vacancy or as an additional 

that right. 

Director holds office only until the conclusion of the next Annual General Meeting 

A form of proxy will be treated as giving the proxy the authority to demand a poll, 

and then shall be eligible for re-election by the shareholders. The other Directors 

or to join others in demanding one, as above. 

retire and are eligible for re-appointment at the third Annual General Meeting 

after the meeting at which they were last re-appointed. If not re-appointed a 

Director retiring at a meeting shall retain office until the meeting appoints 

someone in his place, or if it does not do so, until the conclusion of the meeting. 

The Directors are subject to removal with or without cause by the Board or the 

shareholders. Directors are not required to hold any shares of the Company by 

way of qualification. 

Under the Company’s articles of association and English law, a Director may be 

indemnified out of the assets of the Company against liabilities he may sustain or 

incur in the execution of his duties. 

The necessary quorum for a general meeting is two shareholders present in 

person or by proxy carrying the right to vote upon the business to be transacted. 

Matters are transacted at general meetings of the Company by the 

processing and passing of resolutions of which there are two kinds; ordinary 

or special resolutions: 

–  Ordinary resolutions include resolutions for the re-election of Directors, the 

approval of financial statements, the declaration of dividends (other than interim 

dividends), the appointment and re-appointment of auditors or the grant of 

authority to allot shares. An ordinary resolution requires the affirmative vote 

of a majority of the votes of those persons voting at the meetings at which there 

is a quorum. 

–  Special resolutions include resolutions amending the Company’s articles 

of association, dis-applying statutory pre-emption rights or changing the 

Company’s name; modifying the rights of any class of the Company’s shares at 

a meeting of the holders of such class or relating to certain matters concerning 

the Company’s winding up. A special resolution requires the affirmative vote of 

not less than three-quarters of the votes of the persons voting at the meeting at 

which there is a quorum. 

Annual General Meetings must be convened upon advance written notice of 

21 days. Other general meetings must be convened upon advance written notice 

of at least 14 clear days. The days of delivery or receipt of notice are not included. 

The notice must specify the nature of the business to be transacted. Meetings 

are convened by the Board of Directors. Members with 5% of the Ordinary Share 

capital of the Company may requisition the Board to convene a meeting. 

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C – Material Contracts 

D – Exchange Controls 

E – Taxation 

F – Dividends and Paying Agents

G – Statement by Experts 

H – Documents on Display

I – Subsidiary Information 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk

Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities

American Depository shares

Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies

Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds

Controls and Procedures 

(Reserved) 

Audit Committee Financial Expert

Code of Ethics 

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committee

Purchase of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchase

Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant

Corporate Governance 

Mine Safety Disclosure 

Financial Statements 

Financial Statements 

Exhibits 

Item 11 

Item 12 

Item 12D 

Part II 

Item 13 

Item 14 

Item 15 

Item 16 

Item 16A 

Item 16B 

Item 16C 

Item 16D 

Item 16E 

Item 16F 

Item 16G 

Item 16H 

Part III 

Item 17 

Item 18 

Item 19 

Page

29

153

154–155

n/a

n/a

138

n/a

Inside back cover

113-119, 146–148

152–153

66-67, 70, 91

None

None

n/a

68

66

67, 70

n/a

153

None

62

n/a

n/a

88–138

160

Cross Reference to Form 20-F  

This table provides a cross reference from the information included in this Annual Report to the requirements of Form 20-F.  

Part I 

Item 1 

Item 2 

Item 3 

Item 4 

Item 4A 

Item 5 

Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers

Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

Key Information 

A – Selected Financial Data 

B – Capitalisation and Indebtedness

C – Reason for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

D – Risk Factors 

Information on the Company 

A – History and Development of the Company

B – Business Overview 

C – Organisational Structure 

D – Property, Plant and equipment

Unresolved Staff Comments 

Operating and Financial Review and Prospects

A – Operating results 

B – Liquidity and Capital Resources

C – Research and Development, patents and licences, etc.

D – Trend information 

E – Off Balance Sheet Arrangements

F – Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations

G – Safe Harbor 

Item 6 

Directors, Senior Management and Employees

A – Directors and Senior Management

B – Compensation 

C – Board Practices 

D – Employees 

E – Share Ownership 

Item 7 

Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions

A – Major Shareholders 

– Host Country Shareholders 

B – Related Party Transactions 

C – Interests of experts and counsel

Item 8 

Financial information 

A – Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

Item 9 

Item 10 

– Legal Proceedings 

– Dividends 

B – Significant Changes 

The Offer and Listing 

A – Offer and Listing Details 

B – Plan and Distribution 

C – Markets 

D – Selling Shareholders 

E – Dilution 

F – Expenses of the Issue 

Additional Information 

A – Share capital 

B – Memorandum and Articles of Association

Page

n/a

n/a

156–157

n/a

n/a

146–148

144

3, 19–33, 97–101, 146–148

3, 138

144

None

22–33, 43–53

50-51

21

19-20, 51, 53

145

145

Inside back cover

58–61, 65

74-86

58–66, 68-69

2

85-86, 133–137

153

153

137, 145

n/a

88–138

52–53

149

None

150, 153

n/a

153

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

158–159

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
   
  
  
  
  
 
   
  
 
   
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
C – Material Contracts 

D – Exchange Controls 

E – Taxation 

F – Dividends and Paying Agents

G – Statement by Experts 

H – Documents on Display

I – Subsidiary Information 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk

Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities

American Depository shares

Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies

Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds

Controls and Procedures 

(Reserved) 

Audit Committee Financial Expert

Code of Ethics 

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committee

Purchase of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchase

Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant

Corporate Governance 

Mine Safety Disclosure 

Financial Statements 

Financial Statements 

Exhibits 

Item 11 

Item 12 

Item 12D 

Part II 

Item 13 

Item 14 

Item 15 

Item 16 

Item 16A 

Item 16B 

Item 16C 

Item 16D 

Item 16E 

Item 16F 

Item 16G 

Item 16H 

Part III 

Item 17 

Item 18 

Item 19 

161

Page

29

153

154–155

n/a

n/a

Inside back cover

138

113-119, 146–148

n/a

152–153

None

None

66-67, 70, 91

n/a

68

66

67, 70

n/a

153

None

62

n/a

n/a

88–138

Cross Reference to Form 20-F  

This table provides a cross reference from the information included in this Annual Report to the requirements of Form 20-F.  

Part I 

Item 1 

Item 2 

Item 3 

Item 4 

Item 4A 

Item 5 

Item 9 

Item 10 

Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers

Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

Key Information 

A – Selected Financial Data 

B – Capitalisation and Indebtedness

C – Reason for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

D – Risk Factors 

Information on the Company 

A – History and Development of the Company

B – Business Overview 

C – Organisational Structure 

D – Property, Plant and equipment

Unresolved Staff Comments 

Operating and Financial Review and Prospects

A – Operating results 

B – Liquidity and Capital Resources

C – Research and Development, patents and licences, etc.

D – Trend information 

E – Off Balance Sheet Arrangements

F – Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations

G – Safe Harbor 

B – Compensation 

C – Board Practices 

D – Employees 

E – Share Ownership 

A – Major Shareholders 

– Host Country Shareholders 

B – Related Party Transactions 

C – Interests of experts and counsel

– Legal Proceedings 

– Dividends 

B – Significant Changes 

The Offer and Listing 

A – Offer and Listing Details 

B – Plan and Distribution 

C – Markets 

D – Selling Shareholders 

E – Dilution 

F – Expenses of the Issue 

Additional Information 

A – Share capital 

B – Memorandum and Articles of Association

Item 6 

Directors, Senior Management and Employees

A – Directors and Senior Management

Item 7 

Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions

Item 8 

Financial information 

A – Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

3, 19–33, 97–101, 146–148

Page

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

156–157

146–148

144

3, 138

144

None

50-51

21

145

145

22–33, 43–53

19-20, 51, 53

Inside back cover

58–61, 65

74-86

58–66, 68-69

85-86, 133–137

2

153

153

n/a

137, 145

88–138

52–53

149

None

150, 153

n/a

153

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

158–159

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162

Glossary of terms  

Unless the context indicates otherwise, the following terms have the meanings shown below:  

Term 

Meaning 

Term 

ACL 

ADR 

ADS 

Advanced Surgical Devices 

Advanced Wound Management 

AGM 

Arthroscopy 

ASD 

AWM 

Basis Point 

Chronic wounds  

Company 

Companies Act 

DUROLANE 

EBITA 

EBITDA 

Meaning 

Metal-on-metal hip resurfacing 

A less invasive surgical approach to treating arthritis in certain patients whereby only the surfaces of the hip joint are replaced 

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the four major ligaments in the human knee. 

In the US, the Company’s Ordinary Shares are traded in the form of ADSs evidenced by American Depository Receipts 
(‘ADRs’). 

In the US, the Company’s Ordinary Shares are traded in the form of American Depositary Shares (‘ADSs’). 

A product group comprising products for orthopaedic replacement and reconstruction, endoscopy devices and trauma 
devices. Products for orthopaedic replacement include systems for knees, hips, and shoulders. Endoscopy devices comprise 
of support products for orthopaedic surgery such as computer assisted surgery and minimally invasive surgery techniques 
using specialised viewing and access devices, surgical instruments and powered equipment. Orthopaedics trauma devices 
are used in the treatment of bone fractures including rods, pins, screws, plates and external frames.  

A product group comprising products associated with the treatment of skin wounds, ranging from products that provide 
moist wound healing using breathable films and polymers to products providing active wound healing by biochemical or 
cellular action. 

Annual General Meeting of the Company.

Endoscopy of the joints is termed ‘arthroscopy’, with the principal applications being the knee and shoulder. 

Advanced Surgical Devices division.

Advanced Wound Management division.

One hundredth of one percentage point.

Chronic wounds are those with long or unknown healing times including leg ulcers, pressure sores and diabetic foot ulcers.

Smith & Nephew plc or, where appropriate, the Company’s Board of Directors, unless the context otherwise requires.

Companies Act 2006, as amended, of England and Wales.

DUROLANE is a registered trademark of Q-MED AB.

Earnings before interest, tax and amortisation.

Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation.

Emerging markets 

Emerging markets include Greater China, India, Brazil and Russia.

EPSA 

Endoscopy 

ERP 

Adjusted Earnings Per Share is a trend measure which presents the long-term profitability of the Group excluding the impact 
of specific transactions that management considers affects the Group’s short-term profitability. The Group presents this 
measure to assist investors in their understanding of trends. Adjusted attributable profit is the numerator used for this 
measure. 

Through a small incision, surgeons are able to see inside the body using a monitor and identify and repair defects.

Enterprise Resource Planning: a software system which integrates internal and external management information, facilitating 
the flow of information across an organisation. 

Established Markets 

Established Markets include United States of America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Japan. 

Euro or € 

External fixation 

FDA 

References to the common currency used in the majority of the countries of the European Union. 

The use of wires or pins transfixed through bone to hold a frame to the position of a fracture. 

US Food and Drug Administration.

Financial statements 

Refers to the consolidated Group Accounts of Smith & Nephew plc.

FTSE 100 

GMP 

Index of the largest 100 listed companies on the London Stock Exchange by market capitalisation. 

Good manufacturing practice or ‘GMP’ is the guidance that outlines the aspects of production and testing that can impact the 
quality of a product. 

Group or Smith & Nephew 

Used for convenience to refer to the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries, unless the context otherwise requires.

IFRIC 

IFRS 

International Financial Reporting Interpretations as adopted by the EU and as issued by the International Accounting 
Standards Board. 

International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU and as issued by the International Accounting Standards 
Board. 

International markets 

International Markets include Middle East, North Africa, Southern Africa, Latin America, ASEAN, South Korea and 
Eastern Europe. 

LSE 

London Stock Exchange. 

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Negative Pressure Wound Therapy 

A technology used to treat chronic wounds such as diabetic ulcers, pressure sores and post-operative wounds through the 

leaving the hip head substantially preserved. 

application of sub-atmospheric pressure to an open wound. 

New York Stock Exchange.

Any product that is primarily intended to act as a scaffold and/or actively stimulates bone growth. 

Orthopaedic reconstruction products include joint replacement systems for knees, hips and shoulders and support products 

such as computer-assisted surgery and minimally invasive surgery techniques. Orthopaedic trauma devices are used in the 

treatment of bone fractures including rods, pins, screws, plates and external frames. Clinical therapies products include joint 

fluid therapy for pain reduction of the knee and an ultrasound treatment to accelerate the healing of bone fractures. 

OXINIUM material is an advanced load bearing technology. It is created through a proprietary manufacturing process that 

enables zirconium to absorb oxygen and transform to a ceramic on the surface, resulting in a material that incorporates the 

features of ceramic and metal. Management believes that OXINIUM material used in the production of components of knee 

and hip implants exhibits unique performance characteristics due to its hardness, low-friction and resistance to roughening 

Pound Sterling, Sterling, £, pence or p

References to UK currency. 1p is equivalent to one hundredth of £1.

A product group within ASD comprising specialised devices, fixation systems and bio-absorbable materials to repair joints 

Products that cut or ablate tissue within ASD comprising mechanical blades, radio frequency wands, electromechanical and 

and abrasion. 

Smith & Nephew plc.

and associated tissue. 

hand instruments for resecting tissue. 

US Securities and Exchange Comission

Trading profit is a trend which presents the long-term profitability of the Group excluding the impact of specific transactions 

that management considers affects the Group’s short-term profitability. The Group presents this measure to assist investors 

in their understanding of trends. The Group has identified the following items, where material, as those to be excluded from 

operating profit when arriving at trading profit: acquisition and disposal related items including amortisation of acquisition 

intangible assets and impairments; significant restructuring events; acquisition costs; and gains and losses resulting from 

legal disputes and uninsured losses. 

United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Accounting principles generally accepted in the United Kingdom.

United States of America.

Accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

Products within ASD comprising digital cameras, light sources, monitors, scopes, image capture, central control and 

multimedia broadcasting systems for use in endoscopic surgery with visualisation. 

An area of healthy dermal and epidermal tissue of a wound.

US Dollars, US $ or cents 

References to US currency. 1 cent is equivalent to one hundredth of US$1.

NYSE 

Orthobiologics products 

Orthopaedic products 

OXINIUM 

Parent Company 

Repair 

Resection 

SEC 

Trading profit 

UK 

US 

UK GAAP 

US GAAP 

Visualisation 

Wound bed 

Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Glossary of terms  

163

Unless the context indicates otherwise, the following terms have the meanings shown below:  

Term 

Meaning 

Meaning 

(‘ADRs’). 

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the four major ligaments in the human knee. 

In the US, the Company’s Ordinary Shares are traded in the form of ADSs evidenced by American Depository Receipts 

Advanced Surgical Devices 

A product group comprising products for orthopaedic replacement and reconstruction, endoscopy devices and trauma 

In the US, the Company’s Ordinary Shares are traded in the form of American Depositary Shares (‘ADSs’). 

devices. Products for orthopaedic replacement include systems for knees, hips, and shoulders. Endoscopy devices comprise 

of support products for orthopaedic surgery such as computer assisted surgery and minimally invasive surgery techniques 

using specialised viewing and access devices, surgical instruments and powered equipment. Orthopaedics trauma devices 

are used in the treatment of bone fractures including rods, pins, screws, plates and external frames.  

Advanced Wound Management 

A product group comprising products associated with the treatment of skin wounds, ranging from products that provide 

moist wound healing using breathable films and polymers to products providing active wound healing by biochemical or 

Endoscopy of the joints is termed ‘arthroscopy’, with the principal applications being the knee and shoulder. 

cellular action. 

Annual General Meeting of the Company.

Advanced Surgical Devices division.

Advanced Wound Management division.

One hundredth of one percentage point.

Chronic wounds are those with long or unknown healing times including leg ulcers, pressure sores and diabetic foot ulcers.

Smith & Nephew plc or, where appropriate, the Company’s Board of Directors, unless the context otherwise requires.

Companies Act 2006, as amended, of England and Wales.

DUROLANE is a registered trademark of Q-MED AB.

Earnings before interest, tax and amortisation.

Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation.

Emerging markets 

Emerging markets include Greater China, India, Brazil and Russia.

Adjusted Earnings Per Share is a trend measure which presents the long-term profitability of the Group excluding the impact 

of specific transactions that management considers affects the Group’s short-term profitability. The Group presents this 

measure to assist investors in their understanding of trends. Adjusted attributable profit is the numerator used for this 

measure. 

Through a small incision, surgeons are able to see inside the body using a monitor and identify and repair defects.

Enterprise Resource Planning: a software system which integrates internal and external management information, facilitating 

the flow of information across an organisation. 

Established Markets 

Established Markets include United States of America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Japan. 

References to the common currency used in the majority of the countries of the European Union. 

The use of wires or pins transfixed through bone to hold a frame to the position of a fracture. 

US Food and Drug Administration.

Financial statements 

Refers to the consolidated Group Accounts of Smith & Nephew plc.

Index of the largest 100 listed companies on the London Stock Exchange by market capitalisation. 

Good manufacturing practice or ‘GMP’ is the guidance that outlines the aspects of production and testing that can impact the 

Group or Smith & Nephew 

Used for convenience to refer to the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries, unless the context otherwise requires.

International Financial Reporting Interpretations as adopted by the EU and as issued by the International Accounting 

International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU and as issued by the International Accounting Standards 

International markets 

International Markets include Middle East, North Africa, Southern Africa, Latin America, ASEAN, South Korea and 

quality of a product. 

Standards Board. 

Board. 

Eastern Europe. 

London Stock Exchange. 

Term 

ACL 

ADR 

ADS 

Arthroscopy 

AGM 

ASD 

AWM 

Basis Point 

Chronic wounds  

Company 

Companies Act 

DUROLANE 

EBITA 

EBITDA 

EPSA 

Endoscopy 

ERP 

Euro or € 

External fixation 

FDA 

FTSE 100 

GMP 

IFRIC 

IFRS 

LSE 

Metal-on-metal hip resurfacing 

A less invasive surgical approach to treating arthritis in certain patients whereby only the surfaces of the hip joint are replaced 
leaving the hip head substantially preserved. 

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy 

A technology used to treat chronic wounds such as diabetic ulcers, pressure sores and post-operative wounds through the 
application of sub-atmospheric pressure to an open wound. 

NYSE 

Orthobiologics products 

Orthopaedic products 

OXINIUM 

New York Stock Exchange.

Any product that is primarily intended to act as a scaffold and/or actively stimulates bone growth. 

Orthopaedic reconstruction products include joint replacement systems for knees, hips and shoulders and support products 
such as computer-assisted surgery and minimally invasive surgery techniques. Orthopaedic trauma devices are used in the 
treatment of bone fractures including rods, pins, screws, plates and external frames. Clinical therapies products include joint 
fluid therapy for pain reduction of the knee and an ultrasound treatment to accelerate the healing of bone fractures. 

OXINIUM material is an advanced load bearing technology. It is created through a proprietary manufacturing process that 
enables zirconium to absorb oxygen and transform to a ceramic on the surface, resulting in a material that incorporates the 
features of ceramic and metal. Management believes that OXINIUM material used in the production of components of knee 
and hip implants exhibits unique performance characteristics due to its hardness, low-friction and resistance to roughening 
and abrasion. 

Parent Company 

Smith & Nephew plc.

Pound Sterling, Sterling, £, pence or p

References to UK currency. 1p is equivalent to one hundredth of £1.

Repair 

Resection 

SEC 

Trading profit 

UK 

UK GAAP 

US 

A product group within ASD comprising specialised devices, fixation systems and bio-absorbable materials to repair joints 
and associated tissue. 

Products that cut or ablate tissue within ASD comprising mechanical blades, radio frequency wands, electromechanical and 
hand instruments for resecting tissue. 

US Securities and Exchange Comission

Trading profit is a trend which presents the long-term profitability of the Group excluding the impact of specific transactions 
that management considers affects the Group’s short-term profitability. The Group presents this measure to assist investors 
in their understanding of trends. The Group has identified the following items, where material, as those to be excluded from 
operating profit when arriving at trading profit: acquisition and disposal related items including amortisation of acquisition 
intangible assets and impairments; significant restructuring events; acquisition costs; and gains and losses resulting from 
legal disputes and uninsured losses. 

United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Accounting principles generally accepted in the United Kingdom.

United States of America.

US Dollars, US $ or cents 

References to US currency. 1 cent is equivalent to one hundredth of US$1.

US GAAP 

Visualisation 

Wound bed 

Accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

Products within ASD comprising digital cameras, light sources, monitors, scopes, image capture, central control and 
multimedia broadcasting systems for use in endoscopic surgery with visualisation. 

An area of healthy dermal and epidermal tissue of a wound.

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overviewstrategy and performancemarketplace and business reviewsustainability reviewfinancial review  and principal riskscorporate  governanceaccounts and  other informationsection 7 accounts and other information 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
164

Index  

2011 Financial highlights 

2012 Financial highlights 

48

46

Group Income Statement

Group Notes to the Accounts

Accountability, Audit and Internal Control Framework 

66, 70

Group overview

Accounting Policies 

Accounts Presentation 

Acquisitions 

Acquisition related costs 

Advanced Surgical Devices – Business segment review 

Advanced Wound Management – Business segment review 

96

96

130

103

22

28

Group Statement of Changes in Equity

Group Statement of Comprehensive Income 

Independent Auditor’s Reports

Information for shareholders

Intangible assets

Intellectual property

American Depository Shares 

Articles of Association 

Assets held for sale 

Audit fees 

Board 

Business overview 

Business segment information 

Cash and borrowings 

Chairman’s statement 

Chief Executive Officer’s statement 

Company Auditor’s Report 

Company Balance Sheet 

Company Notes to the Accounts 

Contingencies 

Contractual obligations 

Corporate Governance Statement 

Critical accounting policies 

Cross Reference to Form 20-F 

Currency fluctuations 

Currency translation 

Deferred taxation 

Directors’ Remuneration Report 

Directors’ responsibilities for the accounts 

Directors’ responsibility statement 

Dividends 

Earnings per share 

Employees/People 

Employees’ Share Trust 

Executive officers 

Factors affecting results of operations 

Financial instruments 

Financial position, liquidity and capital resources

Financial highlights 

Glossary of terms 

Goodwill 

Governance and policy 

Group Balance Sheet 

Group Cash Flow Statement 

Group history 

152, 153

Interest

158, 159

Inventories

132

102

58, 59

2, 3, 4

Investments

Investment in associates

Investor information

Key Performance Indicators

97

113

5

9

139

140

141

122

145

57

51

Leases

Legal proceedings

Manufacturing, supply and distribution

Marketplace

New accounting standards

Off-Balance Sheet arrangements

Operating profit

Other finance (costs)/income

Outlook and trend information

Parent Company accounts

Payables

160

People/Employees

21

96

Principal subsidiary undertakings

Provisions

119

Property, plant and equipment

75

89

89

Receivables

Regulation

Related party transactions

128, 149

Research and development

105

2, 39

128

60, 61

54, 55

Restructuring and rationalisation expenses 

Retirement benefit obligation

Risk factors

Risk management

Sales and marketing

116

Selected financial data

50

43

162

107

56

93

94

Share based payments

Share capital

Shareholder return

Strategy

Sustainability

Taxation

Taxation information for shareholders

144

Treasury shares 

92

96

2

95

92

90, 91

151

108

21

103

111

110

110

151

16

116,132

52

20

19

96

145

101

103

53

139

113

2,39

138

121

106,144

112

20

137,145

21, 46, 101

103

122

146

54

19

156

133

127, 154

149

8

34

47,104

157

128

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Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012 
 
Smith & Nephew Annual Report 2012

Contents

1

Overview

Our business today 

Financial highlights 

Chairman’s statement 

2

4

5

2

3

4

5

6

7

Strategy and performance

Creating sustainable value 
Chief Executive Officer’s review of strategy 
How the group measures its strategic performance 

7
8
16

Marketplace and  
Business segment review

Our marketplace 
Business segment review 
Advanced Surgical Devices 
Advanced Wound Management 

Sustainability  
review

Sustainability strategy  
Healthy economic performance 
Healthy social performance 
Healthy environmental performance 
Sustainability progress 

Financial review  
and principal risks

Financial review  
Outlook and trend information 
Principal risks and risk management 

Corporate 
Governance

Accounts and  
other information

Governance introduction 
Our Board of Directors 
Our Executive Officers 
Corporate governance statement 
Directors’ remuneration report 

Directors’ responsibilities for the accounts 
Independent auditor’s UK report 
Independent auditor’s US report 
Group accounts 
Notes to the Group accounts 
Independent auditor’s report for the Company 
Company accounts 
Notes to the Company accounts 
Group information 
Investor information 

19
22
22
28

35
36
37
40
41

43
53
54

57
58
60
62
74

89
90
91
92
96
139
140
141
144
151

About Smith & Nephew
The Smith & Nephew Group (the ‘Group’) is a global medical devices business 
operating in the markets for advanced surgical devices comprising orthopaedic 
reconstruction, trauma and sports medicine and advanced wound 
management, with revenue of approximately $4 billion in 2012. Smith & 
Nephew plc (the ‘Company’) is the parent company of the Group. It is an English 
public limited company with its shares listed on the premium list of the UK 
Listing Authority and traded on the London Stock Exchange. Shares are also 
traded on the New York Stock Exchange in the form of American Depositary 
Shares (‘ADSs’).

This is the Annual Report of Smith & Nephew plc for the year ended 31 December 
2012. It comprises, in a single document, the Annual Report and Accounts of 
the company in accordance with UK requirements and the Annual Report on 
Form 20-F in accordance with the regulations of the United States Securities 
and Exchange Commission (‘SEC’).

Smith & Nephew operates on a worldwide basis and has distribution channels 
in over 90 countries. In the more established countries by revenue, the Group’s 
business operations are organised by divisions. In the majority of the remaining 
markets, operations are managed by country managers who are responsible 
for sales and distribution of the Group’s entire product range. These comprise 
the Emerging Markets and International Markets.

Smith & Nephew’s corporate website, www.smith-nephew.com, gives additional 
information on the Group, including an electronic version of this Annual Report. 
Information made available on this website, or other websites mentioned in this 
Annual Report, are not, and should not be regarded as being, part of or 
incorporated into this Annual Report.

For the convenience of the reader, a Glossary of technical and financial terms 
used in this document is included on pages 162 to 163. The product names 
referred to in this document are identified by use of capital letters and are 
trademarks owned by or licensed to members of the Group.

Special note regarding forward-looking statements
The Group’s reports filed with, or furnished to, the US Securities and Exchange 
Commission (‘SEC’), including this document and written information released, 
or oral statements made, to the public in the future by or on behalf of the Group, 
contain ‘forward-looking statements’ within the meaning of the US Private 
Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, that may or may not prove accurate. In 
particular, statements regarding expected revenue growth and trading profit 
margins discussed under ‘Outlook and Trend Information’, market trends and 
our product pipeline are forward-looking statements. Phrases such as ‘aim’, 
‘plan’, ‘intend’, ‘anticipate’, ‘well-placed’, ‘believe’, ‘estimate’, ‘expect’, ‘target’, 
‘consider’ and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward-
looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown 
risks, uncertainties and other important factors that could cause actual results, 
to differ materially from what is expressed or implied by the statements.

For Smith & Nephew, these factors include: economic and financial conditions 
in the markets we serve, especially those affecting health care providers, 
payers and customers; price levels for established and innovative medical 
devices; developments in medical technology; regulatory approvals, 
reimbursement decisions or other government actions; product defects or 
recalls; litigation relating to patent or other claims; legal compliance risks and 
related investigative, remedial or enforcement actions; strategic actions, 
including acquisitions and dispositions and our success in integrating acquired 
businesses; and numerous other matters that affect us or our markets, 
including those of a political, economic, business or competitive nature. 
Specific risks faced by the Group are described under ‘Risk factors’ on pages 
146 to 148 of this Annual Report. Any forward-looking statement is based on 
information available to Smith & Nephew as of the date of the statement. All 
written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to Smith & Nephew are 
qualified by this caution. Smith & Nephew does not undertake any obligation to 
update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect any change in 
circumstances or in Smith & Nephew’s expectations.

Presentation
The Group’s fiscal year end is 31 December. References in this Annual Report to 
a particular year are to the fiscal year unless otherwise indicated. Except as the 
context otherwise requires, ‘Ordinary Share’ or ‘share’ refer to the Ordinary 
Shares of Smith & Nephew plc of 20 US cents each.

The Group Accounts of Smith & Nephew in this Annual Report are presented in 
US Dollars. Solely for the convenience of the reader, certain parts of this Annual 
Report contain translations of amounts in US Dollars into Sterling at specified 
rates. These translations should not be construed as representations that the 
US Dollar amounts actually represent such Sterling amounts or could be 
converted into Sterling at the rate indicated.

Unless stated otherwise, the translation of US Dollars and cents to Sterling and 
pence in this Annual Report has been made at the Bank of England exchange 
rate on the date indicated. On 19 February 2013, the Bank of England rate was 
US$1.5443 per £1.

The results of the Group, as reported in US Dollars, are affected by movements 
in exchange rates between US Dollars and other currencies. The Group applied 
the average exchange rates prevailing during the year to translate the results of 
companies with functional currency other than US Dollars. The currencies 
which most influenced these translations in the years covered by this report 
were Sterling, Swiss Franc and the Euro.

The Accounts of the Group in this Annual Report are presented in millions (‘m’) 
unless otherwise indicated.

Division data
Division data and division share estimates throughout this report are derived 
from a variety of sources including publicly available competitors’ information, 
internal management information and independent market research reports.

Documents on display
It is possible to read and copy documents referred to in this Annual Report at 
the Registered Office of the Company. Documents referred to in this Annual 
Report that have been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in 
the US may be read and copied at the SEC’s public reference room located at 
450 Fifth Street, NW, Washington DC 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-
0330 for further information on the public reference rooms and their copy 
charges. The SEC also maintains a web site at www.sec.gov that contains 
reports and other information regarding registrants that file electronically with 
the SEC. This Annual Report and some of the other information submitted by 
the Group to the SEC may be accessed through the SEC website.

The inks used are renewable, biodegradable and emit fewer Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) than mineral-oil inks. 
They are based on high levels of renewable raw materials such as vegetable oils and naturally occuring resin.
The inks do not contin any toxic heavy metals and therefore, do not pose a problem if placed in landfill.
Designed by Radley Yeldar.
Printed by RR Donnelley 472599.

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A
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R
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2
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1
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Annual Report 2012

Smith & Nephew plc
15 Adam Street
London WC2N 6LA
United Kingdom

T +44 (0) 20 7401 7646
F +44 (0) 20 7960 2356

www.smith-nephew.com

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