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Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc.

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FY2018 Annual Report · Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc.
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Annual Report 2018

Building a 
North American 
Leader

Table of Contents

IFC  Performance Highlights 

1 

President’s Message 

41  Consolidated Financial Statements 

45  Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

3  Management’s Discussion and Analysis  

89  Corporate Information 

37  Management’s Report 

38 

Independent Auditor’s Report 

90  Business and Shareholder Information

Financial Results

(millions of dollars)

Revenues

Gross profit 

EBITDA from operations(1)

Adjusted EBITDA(1)

Adjusted operating cash flow before transaction and other costs(1)

Adjusted operating cash flow(1)

Net loss 

Dividends declared

(dollar per basic and diluted share except dividends paid and shares outstanding)

EBITDA from operations(1)

Adjusted EBITDA(1)

Adjusted operating cash flow before transaction and other costs(1)

Adjusted operating cash flow (1)

Net loss

Dividends paid

Weighted average shares outstanding (millions)

2018

2,726.7

2017

2,385.0

938.1

402.8

374.3

302.3

262.8

(34.0) 

114.4

2018

2.55

2.37

1.91

1.66

(0.22) 

0.72

158.1

735.4

306.8

297.6

250.5

217.4

(27.9)

102.8

2017

2.15

2.08

1.75

1.52

(0.20)

0.72

 142.8

(1)		 EBITDA	from	operations,	Adjusted	EBITDA,	Adjusted	operating	cash	flow	before	transaction	and	other	costs,	and	Adjusted	operating	

cash	flow	are	Non-GAAP	financial	measures.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”	in	Superior’s	Management’s	Discussion	and	Analysis	
(MD&A)	for	additional	details.

Financial Position

(millions of dollars)

Total assets

Total liabilities

Net capital expenditures(1) 

Senior secured debt(2)

Total debt(2)

Total debt/Adjusted EBITDA(2)(3)(4)

2018

3,649.6

2,560.7

95.5

639.0

1,886.3

4.1x 

2017

2,336.7

1,560.7

94.3

463.4

1,063.4

3.3x

(1)	 Includes	investment	in	finance	leases	amounting	to	$16.0	million	in	2018	and	$24.9	million	in	2017.	Excludes	property,	plant	and	

equipment	acquired	through	acquisition.

(2)	 Senior	secured	debt	and	total	debt	are	stated	before	deferred	issue	costs.

(3)	 See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”	in	Superior’s	Management’s	Discussion	and	Analysis	(MD&A)	for	additional	details.	

(4)	 Proforma	Adjusted	EBITDA	is	defined	as	Adjusted	EBITDA	calculated	on	a	trailing	twelve	month	(TTM)	basis,	including	 

pre-acquisition	Adjusted	EBITDA	related	to	acquisitions	completed	during	the	TTM	period.

 
President’s Message

“ At Superior Plus we continue to focus  

on creating value for shareholders,  

and 2018 was a record year.”

Luc Desjardins

President and  
Chief Executive Officer

our employees, our customers, our contractors and our communities, 

and that are in compliance with all applicable federal, provincial and 

Dear Fellow Shareholders:

local requirements.

Our management team and employees 

In 2018, our Energy Distribution and Specialty Chemicals businesses 

delivered record results. We also completed the largest acquisition 

are focused on the long-term success and 

in our company’s history, which provides a significant operating 

sustainability of the businesses we operate in. We 

are committed to providing a safe and productive 

platform in the Eastern U.S. On July 10, 2018, we acquired NGL 

Propane LLC (“NGL”) from NGL Energy Partners LP for approximately 

$1.2 billion. The acquisition of NGL provides us with a significant 

day of work for every employee, to continuously 

operating platform in the Eastern U.S., including over 316,000 

improve on the way we operate and service 

our customers, and to growing our business 

organically through our superior products and 

service offerings and through our disciplined 

acquisition growth strategy.

customers, 1000 employees and 160 locations including offices. 

With this acquisition, Superior is now the sixth largest retail propane 

distributor in the U.S., and the third largest retail propane distributor 

in North America. We remain the largest propane distribution 

company in Canada.

In the second quarter, we sold our wholesale distillate assets and 

business in the U.S., as well as a part of our retail heating oil business 

In addition to our Evolution 2020 initiatives to improve the 

in Philadelphia. We received $92 million in total proceeds, which we 

profitability of our business and create shareholder value, health, 

used to make six tuck-in acquisitions of retail and wholesale propane 

safety and environmental practices are top priorities for Superior. 

distribution assets. We didn’t see the wholesale business as core to 

Our goal is to become an industry leader in health, safety and 

our long term business model, and the sale of the wholesale and 

environmental practices at all of our operations and to minimize the 

retail distillate assets is consistent with our strategy to focus more 

impact of our operations on the environment. We are committed to 

on building our propane distribution platform and to minimize our 

providing work environments that protect the health and safety of 

exposure to capital intensive businesses with lower margins and 

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  1

 
“ Our dedication to digitalization and improving our operations drives 

our success in providing value-added and reliable service to our Energy 

Distribution customers and reducing our costs to serve.”

a declining customer base. We see a tremendous opportunity for 

in the second half of 2019. Our Specialty Chemicals team operating 

propane growth, especially in the Eastern U.S. due to the highly 

under the ERCO Worldwide brand are tremendous operators with an 

fragmented market and the impact from consumers shifting away 

excellent safety record. 

from heating oil to heat their homes and operate their businesses. 

We have accomplished a significant amount in 2018, with the 

Our Superior Propane team did an incredible job this year with the 

acquisition of NGL, the integration of Canwest, and the continued 

integration of Canwest Propane. By the end of the fourth quarter, 

success of the Energy Distribution and Specialty Chemicals 

we were ahead of schedule on the integration and the realization 

businesses. Our acquisition and integration strategy is in full swing, 

of synergies. I’m confident we will meet the target of $20 million in 

and we target improving the operations of Energy Distribution 

run-rate synergies by mid-2019. We are taking the learnings from 

businesses we acquire by 15% to 25% through leveraging our 

the Canwest integration and applying our best practices to the NGL 

operating platform in Energy Distribution. 

integration. We made great progress in the NGL integration during 

2018, and were able to realize US $10 million in run-rate synergies. By 

Acknowledgements

applying our industry leading operating platform to the U.S. business, 

we expect to meet our target of US $20 million in run-rate synergies 

related to NGL by the end of 2020. 

I believe that the success of any organization comes from the talent 

and passion of their people. Our 4,300 employees represent some 

of the best talent in the industries in which Superior competes. I 

Our dedication to digitalization and improving our operations drives 

would like to thank each of you for your hard work and commitment 

our success in providing value-added and reliable service to our 

Energy Distribution customers and reducing our costs to serve. 

to your respective businesses. On behalf of the entire organization, I 

would like to thank our shareholders and other stakeholders for your 

During 2018, we deployed 14,000 tank sensors to our Canadian 

continued support and confidence in Superior. 

customers, bringing the total number of tank sensors in the field to 

30,000. The use of tank sensors improves our fill-rate which reduces 

the number of deliveries and operating costs. The sensors also help to 

reduce the instances of customer failures and provide customers with 

up-to-date information on their tank levels and planned deliveries, 

viewable on their computer, tablet or smart phone. Other propane 

On behalf of the Board of Directors and Executive Management, 

distributors may utilize sensors, but we provide a sophisticated, fully 

Luc Desjardins

integrated platform. 

Our Specialty Chemicals business had a record year with EBITDA from 

operations of $137.6 million, and an average operating rate of 95% 

across our sodium chlorate, chlor-alkali and sodium chlorite plants. 

We experienced continued strength in chlor-alkali markets in 2018, 

especially for hydrochloric acid and caustic soda. There was some 

demand weakness in the fourth quarter for hydrochloric acid related 

to a slowdown in oil and gas drilling in Western Canada and the U.S., 

however, we expect demand to improve in 2019. The North American 

caustic soda markets have been negatively impacted by demand from 

other markets, and expectations are for those markets to improve 

President and Chief Executive Officer 

February 14, 2019

“ We have accomplished a significant 

amount in 2018, with the acquisition 

of NGL, the integration of Canwest, 

and the continued success of the 

Energy Distribution and Specialty 

Chemicals businesses.”

2  Superior Plus Corp. President’s Message

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of 2018 Annual and  
Fourth Quarter Results 
February 14, 2019

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis 

(MD&A) contains information about the 

Superior, through its ownership of Superior LP and Superior GP, 

has two operating segments: the Energy Distribution segment, 

which includes a Canadian propane distribution business and a U.S. 

performance and financial position of Superior 

propane distribution business; and the Specialty Chemicals segment, 

Plus Corp. (Superior) as at and for the year ended 

December 31, 2018 and 2017, as well as forward-

looking information about future periods.  

The information in this MD&A is current to 

February 14, 2019, and should be read in 

which produces and distributes sodium chlorate, chlor-alkali products 

and sodium chlorite.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Throughout the MD&A, Superior has used the following terms that 

are not defined under Canadian generally accepted accounting 

principles (GAAP), but are used by management to evaluate the 

conjunction with Superior’s audited consolidated 

performance of Superior and its businesses: adjusted operating cash 

financial statements and notes thereto as at and 

flow (AOCF) before and after transaction and other costs, earnings 

before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) 

for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017. 

from operations, Adjusted EBITDA, Proforma Adjusted EBITDA and 

The accompanying audited consolidated financial statements of 

Superior were prepared by and are the responsibility of Superior’s 

management. Superior’s audited consolidated financial statements 

as at and for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 were 

prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting 

Standards (IFRS). 

All financial amounts in this MD&A are expressed in millions of 

Canadian dollars except where otherwise noted. All tables are  

for the 12 months ended December 31 of the year indicated, 

unless otherwise stated. This MD&A includes forward-looking 

statements and assumptions. See “Forward-Looking Information” 

for more details.

Overview of Superior

Superior is a diversified business corporation. Superior holds 

99.9% of Superior Plus LP (Superior LP), a limited partnership 

formed between Superior General Partner Inc. (Superior GP) as 

general partner and Superior as limited partner. Superior owns 

100% of the shares of Superior GP and Superior GP holds 0.1% 

of Superior LP. The cash flow of Superior is solely dependent 

on the results of Superior LP and is derived from the allocation 

of Superior LP’s income to Superior by means of partnership 

allocations. 

Leverage Ratio. These measures may also be used by investors, 

financial institutions and credit rating agencies to assess Superior’s 

performance and ability to service debt. Non-GAAP financial 

measures do not have standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP 

and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures 

presented by other companies. Securities regulations require that 

Non-GAAP financial measures are clearly defined, qualified and 

reconciled to their most comparable GAAP financial measures. Except 

as otherwise indicated, these Non-GAAP financial measures are 

calculated and disclosed on a consistent basis from period to period. 

Specific items may only be relevant in certain periods. 

The intent of using Non-GAAP financial measures is to provide 

additional useful information to investors and analysts; the measures 

do not have standardized meaning under IFRS. The measures should 

not, therefore, be considered in isolation or used in substitute for 

measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Other 

issuers may calculate Non-GAAP financial measures differently.

See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for more information about 

these measures. 

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  3

 
Forward-Looking Information

Certain information included herein is forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking 

information may include statements regarding the objectives, business strategies to achieve those objectives, expected financial results (including 

those in the area of risk management), economic or market conditions, and the outlook of or involving Superior, Superior LP and its businesses. 

Such information is typically identified by words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “plan”, “forecast”, “future”, “outlook”, 

“guidance”, “may”, “project”, “should”, “strategy”, “target”, “will” or similar expressions suggesting future outcomes.

Forward-looking information in this document includes: future financial position, consolidated and business segment outlooks, expected Adjusted 

EBITDA, leverage ratio, business strategy and objectives, development plans and programs, business expansion and cost structure and other 

improvement projects, expected product margins and sales volumes, market conditions in Canada and the U.S., expected synergies from the 

integration of Canwest, EBITDA and synergies associated with the NGL acquisition, expected seasonality of demand, future economic conditions, 

our ability to obtain financing on acceptable terms, expected life of facilities and statements regarding net working capital and capital expenditure 

requirements of Superior or Superior LP.

Forward-looking information is provided for the purpose of providing information about management’s expectations and plans about the future 

and may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking information herein is based on various assumptions and expectations that 

Superior believes are reasonable in the circumstances. No assurance can be given that these assumptions and expectations will prove to be correct. 

Those assumptions and expectations are based on information currently available to Superior, including information obtained from third-party 

industry analysts and other third-party sources, and the historic performance of Superior’s businesses. Such assumptions include anticipated 

financial performance, current business and economic trends, the amount of future dividends paid by Superior, business prospects, utilization of 

tax basis, regulatory developments, currency, exchange and interest rates, future commodity prices relating to the oil and gas industry, future oil 

rig activity levels, trading data, cost estimates, our ability to obtain financing on acceptable terms, the assumptions set forth under the “Financial 

Outlook” sections of our MD&A. The forward looking information is also subject to the risks and uncertainties set forth below.

By its very nature, forward-looking information involves numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties, both general and specific. Should one or 

more of these risks and uncertainties materialize or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, as many important factors are beyond our 

control, Superior’s or Superior LP’s actual performance and financial results may vary materially from those estimates and intentions contemplated, 

expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. These risks and uncertainties include incorrect assessments of value when making 

acquisitions, increases in debt servicing charges, the loss of key personnel, fluctuations in foreign currency and exchange rates, inadequate 

insurance coverage, liability for cash taxes, counterparty risk, compliance with environmental laws and regulations, reduced customer demand, 

operational risks involving Superior’s facilities, force majeure, labour relations matters, Superior’s ability to access external sources of debt and 

equity capital, risks related to integrating the NGL business, assumption of NGL’s liabilities, counterparty risk relating to obligations of the vendor 

of NGL and regulatory risks relating to NGL, and the risks identified in (i) this MD&A under “Risk Factors” and (ii) Superior’s most recent Annual 

Information Form. The preceding list of assumptions, risks and uncertainties is not exhaustive.

When relying on Superior’s forward-looking information to make decisions with respect to Superior, investors and others should carefully consider 

the preceding factors, other uncertainties and potential events. Any forward-looking information is provided as of the date of this document and, 

except as required by law, neither Superior nor Superior LP undertakes to update or revise such information to reflect new information, subsequent 

or otherwise. For the reasons set forth above, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

4  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Financial Overview

Summary of AOCF 

(millions of dollars except per share amounts)

Revenues

Gross profit

EBITDA from operations(1) 

Income from Canwest(2) 

Corporate operating and administrative costs

Realized gains (losses) on derivative financial instruments

Adjusted EBITDA (1) 

Interest expense

Cash income tax expense

AOCF before transaction and other costs(1)

Transaction and other costs(3)

AOCF(1)

AOCF per share before transaction and other costs, basic and diluted(1)(3)(4)

AOCF per share, basic and diluted(1)(3)(4)

Dividends declared per share(4)

2018

2,726.7

938.1

402.8

(20.0)

(8.5)

374.3

(70.1)

(1.9)

302.3

(39.5)

262.8 

1.91

1.66

0.72

$ 

$ 

$ 

2017

2,385.0 

735.4

306.8

11.9

(21.6)

0.5

297.6

(43.8)

(3.3)

250.5

(33.1)

217.4 

1.75

1.52

0.72

$ 

$ 

$ 

(1)	 EBITDA	from	operations,	Adjusted	EBITDA,	AOCF	before	transaction	and	other	costs,	and	AOCF	are	Non-GAAP	measures.	See	“Non-	GAAP	Financial	Measures”.

(2)	 As	of	March	1,	2017	and	up	to	the	acquisition	closing	date	of	September	27,	2017,	Superior	was	entitled	to	the	benefit	of	the	income	from	Canwest.	In	2018,	Canwest’s	

income	is	included	in	EBITDA	from	operations.

(3)  Transaction	and	other	costs	for	the	years	ended	December	31,	2018	and	2017	are	related	to	acquisition	activity	and	the	integration	of	acquisitions.	See	“Transaction	and	

Other	Costs”	for	further	details.

(4)	 The	weighted	average	number	of	shares	outstanding	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2018	is	158.1	million	(December	31,	2017	–	142.8	million).	There	were	no	dilutive	

instruments	with	respect	to	AOCF	and	AOCF	before	transaction	and	other	costs	per	share	for	the	years	ended	December	31,	2018	and	2017.

Comparable GAAP Financial Information

(millions of dollars except per share amounts)

Net loss

Net loss per share, basic and diluted
Net cash flows from operating activities

Net cash flows from operating activities paid per share, basic and diluted

Segmented Information

(millions of dollars)

EBITDA from operations(1)

Energy Distribution
Specialty Chemicals

(1)  EBITDA	from	operations	is	a	Non-GAAP	measure.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”.

2018

(34.0)

2017

(27.9)

$  

(0.22)

$ 

 (0.20)

263.0

183.1

$ 

1.66

$ 

1.28

2018

2017

265.2

137.6

402.8

180.4

126.4

306.8

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  5

 
 
 
 
AOCF Reconciled to Net Cash Flow from Operating Activities (1)

(millions of dollars)

Net cash flow from operating activities

Add (deduct):

  Non-cash interest expense, loss on redemption and other

  Changes in non-cash working capital

Income taxes paid (received)

Interest paid

  Canwest depreciation, amortization and other

  Cash income tax expense

Finance expense recognized in net earnings

AOCF(1)

(1)	 AOCF	is	a	Non-GAAP	measure.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”.

2018 Acquisitions and Divestitures

Acquisition of Hi-Grade Oil (Hi-Grade)

2018

263.0

15.8

20.5

0.1

51.1

—

(1.9)

(85.8)

262.8

2017

183.1

10.0

61.2

(30.5)

39.9

10.8

(3.3)

(53.8)

217.4

On February 2, 2018, Superior closed the acquisition of the propane distribution assets of Hi-Grade, an independent propane and distillate 

fuel distributor in Ohio for total cash consideration of US$6.4 million (CDN $8.3 million). The assets of Hi-Grade’s distillate fuel business were 

simultaneously sold to a third party for cash proceeds of US$1.7 million (CDN $2.4 million).

Sale of Certain U.S. Refined Fuel Assets (Sale of Refined Fuel Assets)

On April 3, 2018, Superior sold certain retail distillate assets in Pennsylvania to a third-party for total cash consideration of approximately  

US$16.7 million (CDN $20.7 million). On April 25, 2018, Superior sold certain wholesale refined fuels business assets located across five states in  

the northeast U.S., and three pipeline connected terminals located in New York to Sunoco LP for total cash consideration of US$39.5 million  

(CDN $50.8 million), plus net working capital of approximately US$16.0 million (CDN $20.4 million). 

Sale of Petrofuels 

On April 19, 2018, Superior Propane sold its inventory and fixed assets associated with the Petrofuels business in St. Catharines, Ontario for a total 

purchase price of $4.1 million.

Sale of Canwest Consent Agreement Assets

On April 30, 2018, Superior completed the Canwest asset sales pursuant to the Consent Agreement with the Government of Canada’s Competition 

Bureau for total cash consideration of $13.0 million including working capital of approximately $1.6 million. 

Acquisition of Blue Flame Gas Service (Blue Flame)

On May 1, 2018, Superior closed the acquisition of the propane distribution assets of Blue Flame, an independent propane distributor in 

Pennsylvania for total cash consideration of US$9.0 million (CDN $11.6 million) and deferred payments of US$2.0 million (CDN $2.6 million).

NGL Propane, LLC (NGL)

On July 10, 2018, Superior completed the acquisition of NGL Propane, LLC, NGL Energy Partners LP’s retail propane distribution business (NGL) for 

cash proceeds of US$889.8 million (CDN $1,165.6 million), net of customary closing adjustments and excluding transaction costs. The purchase 

price was financed through the issuance of senior unsecured notes in the amounts of US$350 million (CDN $457.0 million) and CDN $150.0 million 

aggregate principal, the issuance of 32 million subscription receipts and borrowings under Superior’s existing credit facilities. See Note 14 and  

Note 19 in the 2018 audited consolidated financial statements for more details on the debt raised and common shares issued. 

Porco Energy Corp. (Porco)

On September 21, 2018, Superior completed the acquisition of the propane distribution and other assets of Porco, an independent propane and 

distillate fuel distributor in New York for total consideration of US$16.0 million (CDN $20.0 million). The acquisition was funded by drawing on 

Superior’s credit facility and deferring US$5.5 million in payments over the next 5 years.

6  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
United Pacific Energy (UPE)

On October 2, 2018 Superior acquired all of the issued and outstanding shares of United Liquid Gas Company Inc., which operates under the trade 

name UPE, an independent wholesale natural gas liquid distributor in California for US$33.0 million plus working capital of US$6.9 million for total 

consideration of US$39.9 million (CDN $51.5 million). The acquisition was funded by drawing on Superior’s credit facility.

Musco Fuel & Propane LLP (Musco)

On November 1, 2018, Superior acquired substantially all of the propane distribution assets of Musco, an independent propane distributor in 

Connecticut serving residential and commercial customers, for total consideration of US$14.5 million (CDN $19.1 million). The acquisition was 

funded by drawing on Superior’s credit facility and deferring US$1.0 million in payments over the next 5 years.

Consolidated Statement of Net Loss 

(millions of dollars except per share amounts)

Revenues

Cost of Sales (includes products and services)

Gross profit

Expenses

Selling, distribution and administrative costs

Finance expense

Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative financial instruments

(Loss) earnings before income taxes

Income tax (expense) recovery

Net loss for the year

Net loss per share, basic and diluted(1)

2018

2,726.7

(1,788.6)

938.1

(800.3)

(85.8)

(86.3)

(972.4)

(34.3)

0.3

2017

2,385.0 

(1,649.6)

735.4

(593.5)

(53.8)

27.7

(619.6)

115.8

(143.7)

(34.0)   

(27.9) 

$  (0.22)

$  (0.20)

(1)	 The	weighted	average	number	of	shares	outstanding	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2018	is	158.1	million	(December	31,	2017	–	142.8	million).	There	were	no	dilutive	

instruments	with	respect	to	AOCF	per	share	for	the	years	ended	December	31,	2018	and	2017.

Annual Financial Results Compared to the Prior Year

Net cash flows from operating activities was $263.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, an increase of $79.9 million from the prior year, 

primarily due to higher earnings in the Energy Distribution segment and to a lesser extent, the Specialty Chemicals segment and smaller decrease 

from changes in non-cash operating working capital. This was partially offset by a realized loss on foreign currency hedging contracts compared to a 

gain in the prior year, higher interest paid and higher transaction, restructuring and other costs.

AOCF before transaction and other costs for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $302.3 million, an increase of $51.8 million or 21% from the 

prior year AOCF before transaction and other costs of $250.5 million. The increase from the prior year was primarily due to higher EBITDA from 

operations and was partially offset by a realized loss on foreign currency hedging contracts compared to a gain in the prior year and higher interest 

costs. Energy Distribution EBITDA from operations increased due to the contribution from the NGL acquisition, the full year contribution from 

Canwest and the other tuck-in acquisitions. Specialty Chemicals EBITDA from operations increased due to higher sales volumes and prices for 

caustic soda and hydrochloric acid, and was partially offset by lower sodium chlorate sales volumes and higher average electricity costs. Interest 

costs increased compared to the prior year primarily due to higher debt balances related to the financing of the NGL and tuck-in acquisitions. AOCF 

per share before transaction and other costs was $1.91 per share, an increase of $0.16 per share or 9% from the prior year results of $1.75 per 

share. The increase on a per share basis is a result of the above and was partially offset by the impact of the issuance of 32 million shares during 

the year related to the NGL acquisition. 

AOCF for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $262.8 million, an increase of $45.4 million or 21% from the prior year AOCF of $217.4 million. 

AOCF per share for 2018 was $1.66 per share, an increase of $0.14 per share or 9% from the prior year results of $1.52 per share. Transaction 

and other costs for 2018 were $39.5 million, $6.4 million higher than the prior year and are primarily related to the acquisition costs for NGL and 

the other tuck-in acquisitions and costs incurred related to the Canwest integration compared to costs in the prior year related to the Canwest 

acquisition and restructuring. The increase on a per share basis is partially offset as a result of the issuance of 32 million shares during the third 

quarter related to the NGL acquisition.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  7

  
 
 
 
Revenue of $2,726.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 was an increase of $341.7 million or 14% from the prior year due to increased 

revenue for both the Energy Distribution and Specialty Chemicals segments. Energy Distribution revenue for the year ended December 31, 2018 

was $2,058.7 million, an increase of $310.6 million or 18% from the prior year primarily due to the contribution from the NGL, Canwest and tuck-in 

acquisitions, and to a lesser extent, higher commodity prices, partially offset by the impact from the sale of certain refined fuel assets in the second 

quarter. Specialty Chemicals revenue for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $676.5 million, an increase of $40.1 million or 6% from the prior 

year primarily due to higher average selling prices for caustic soda, and hydrochloric acid and higher chlor-alkali sales volumes partially offset by 

lower sales volumes for sodium chlorate. Revenue for 2018 includes a realized loss of $8.5 million related to foreign currency hedging contracts 

compared to a gain of $0.5 million in the prior year. Gross profit was $938.1 million, an increase of $202.7 million or 28% from $735.4 million in the 

prior year primarily due to an increase in cost of sales, partially offset by the increased revenues. Energy Distribution cost of sales increased due 

to the NGL and other tuck-in acquisitions, the full year impact of Canwest and the impact of falling propane and butane prices had on inventory. 

This was partially offset by the impact of the sale of certain refined fuel assets. Specialty Chemicals cost of sales increased primarily due to higher 

average electricity costs and higher costs of raw materials used in production.

Selling, distribution and administrative costs were $800.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, an increase of $206.8 million or  

35% from the prior year primarily due to an increase in Energy Distribution costs and to a lesser extent, the Specialty Chemicals costs. Energy 

Distribution costs were $608.7 million, an increase of $200.9 million from $407.8 million in the prior year primarily due to the impact of the NGL 

acquisition, Canwest and other tuck-in acquisitions, partially offset by a gain on disposal of assets related primarily to the sale of certain refined 

fuel assets. Energy Distribution costs in the prior year included a net income of $1.2 million from Canwest for the period from March 1, 2017 until 

September 27, 2017. Specialty Chemicals costs were $149.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, an increase of $2.9 million or 2% from 

$146.4 million primarily due to higher distribution costs and to a lesser extent, higher amortization expense related to the increased asset base  

as a result of the International Dioxcide, Inc. (“IDI”) acquisition which closed in the fourth quarter of the prior year. 

Finance expense for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $85.8 million, an increase of $32.0 million or 59% from $53.8 million in the prior year. 

The increase is primarily due to higher debt balances as a result of the NGL and tuck-in acquisitions completed during the year and to a lesser 

extent, the $9.8 million early call premium related to the redemption of the 6.5% senior unsecured notes on March 8, 2018 and higher interest rates 

in the U.S. and Canada.

Unrealized loss on derivative financial instruments were $86.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to a gain of $27.7 million 

in the prior year. This is mainly related to changes in market prices of commodities, timing of maturities of underlying financial instruments and 

foreign exchange rates relative to amounts hedged. For additional details, refer to Note 17 of the 2018 audited consolidated financial statements.

Total income tax recovery was $0.3 million, representing a change of $144.0 million compared with the prior year’s expense of $143.7 million. 

Current income tax expense was $1.9 million, a decrease of $1.4 million from the prior year. Deferred income tax recovery was $2.2 million, a 

decrease from the $140.4 million expense in the prior year primarily due to the impact of the Canada Revenue Agency agreement in the prior year 

regarding Superior’s corporate conversion transaction which occurred on December 31, 2008. 

The net loss for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $34.0 million, compared to a net loss of $27.9 million in the prior year. The decrease 

from the prior year is primarily due to increased selling, distribution and administrative costs, finance costs and an unrealized loss on derivative 

instruments compared to a gain in the prior year, partially offset by higher gross profits and a deferred tax recovery compared to a deferred tax 

expense in the prior year. Basic loss per share was $0.22, compared to a loss per share of $0.20 in the prior year. 

8  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Results of Superior’s Operating Segments 

Energy Distribution

Energy Distribution’s condensed operating results for 2018 and 2017:

(millions of dollars)

Revenues

Cost of Sales

Gross profit 

Selling, distribution and administrative costs

Add back (deduct):

Amortization and depreciation included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

Transaction, restructuring, and other costs

Gain on disposal of assets and other

Income from Canwest

EBITDA from operations(1)

Add back (deduct):

Income from Canwest

Gain on disposal of assets and other

Transaction, restructuring, and other costs

Amortization and depreciation included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

Unrealized gains (losses) on derivative financial instruments

Finance expense

Net income before income tax

(1)	 EBITDA	from	operations	is	a	Non-GAAP	financial	measure.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”.

2018

2,058.7

(1,344.1)

714.6

(608.7)

2017

1,748.1

(1,233.2)

514.9

(407.8)

144.3

17.4

(2.4)

—

265.2

—

2.4

(17.4)

(144.3)

(27.8)

(4.7)

73.4 

59.7

16.6

(1.8)

(1.2)

180.4

1.2

1.8

(16.6)

(59.7)

5.0

(3.5)

108.6 

Revenue for 2018 was $2,058.7 million, an increase of $310.6 million from the prior year primarily due to incremental revenue from NGL, tuck-in 

acquisitions, the full year impact of Canwest and higher wholesale propane prices, partially offset by the impact of the sale of certain refined fuel 

assets in the U.S. during the year. Wholesale propane supply prices increased due to lower industry inventory levels in the U.S. driven by higher 

exports out of North America and the higher average West Texas Intermediate crude oil prices compared to the prior year. Total gross profit for 

2018 was $714.6 million, an increase of $199.7 million or 39% from the prior year primarily driven by the contribution from NGL, Canwest and 

tuck-in acquisitions. This was partially offset by the impact from the sale of certain refined fuel assets in the U.S. and the continued impact of 

weaker basis differentials and market fundamentals on the supply portfolio management business within the Canadian propane distribution 

business. A review of gross profit is provided below. 

Gross Profit Review

(millions of dollars)

Canadian propane distribution

U.S. propane distribution

Other services

Total gross profit

Canadian Propane Distribution

2018

382.1

283.0

49.5

714.6

2017

316.4

168.5

30.0

514.9

Canadian propane distribution’s gross profit for 2018 was $382.1 million, an increase of $65.7 million from the prior year. The increase is primarily 

due to a full year contribution from Canwest. In the prior year, income from Canwest was recorded similar to an equity investment from March 1, 

2017 to September 27, 2017. The increase was partially offset by the continued impact of weaker market fundamentals and customer mix. Average 

weather across Canada for the year, as measured by degree days, was 5% colder than the prior year and 4% colder than the five-year average. 

Residential sales volumes increased by 33 million litres or 22%, commercial sales volumes increased by 55 million litres or 19%, oilfield volumes 

increased by 103 million litres or 102%, industrial volumes increased by 64 million litres or 32%, motor fuels sales volumes increased by 19 million 

litres or 12% from the prior year, primarily due to incremental sales volumes associated with Canwest. Wholesale propane volumes were higher by 

229 million litres or 34% over the prior year primarily due to the acquisition of UPE and to a lesser extent, an increase in spot sales compared to the 

prior year.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  9

  
 
 
  
 
Average propane sales margins for 2018 were 17.3 cents per litre, a 7% decrease from 18.7 cents per litre in the prior year. Average propane 

margins were lower due to an increased proportion of lower margin wholesale volumes, customer mix and the impact of continued weak market 

fundamentals within the supply portfolio management business, including lower butane prices on weaker demand.

Canadian Propane Distribution Sales Volumes

Volumes by End-Use Application(1)

(millions of litres) 

Residential

Commercial

Oilfield(2)

Industrial(2)

Motor Fuels

Wholesale

Other

Total

(1)	 2017	excludes	Canwest	volumes	prior	to	the	transaction	closing	on	September	27,	2017.	See	details	on	page	30	“Income	from	Canwest”.

(2)		 2017	volumes	were	reclassified	to	conform	to	the	current	year	presentation.

Volumes by Region(1)

(millions of litres) 

Western Canada

Eastern Canada

Atlantic Canada

United States

Total

2018

2017

183

345

204

263

179

907

134

150

290

101

199

160

678

117

2,215

1,695

2018

1,121

560

120

414

2,215

2017

823

529

113

230

1,695

(1)	 Regions:	Western	Canada	region	consists	of	British	Columbia,	Alberta,	Saskatchewan,	Manitoba,	Northwest	Ontario,	Yukon	and	Northwest	Territories;	Eastern	Canada	
region	consists	of	Ontario	(except	for	Northwest	Ontario)	and	Quebec;	Atlantic	Canada	region	consists	of	New	Brunswick,	Newfoundland	&	Labrador,	Nova	Scotia	and	
Prince	Edward	Island.	United	States	region	consists	primarily	of	Maine,	Idaho,	Kansas,	Michigan,	Washington,	Alaska,	California,	North	Dakota,	Pennsylvania,	and	New	York.

U.S. Propane Distribution

U.S. propane distribution gross profit for 2018 was $283.0 million, an increase of $114.5 million or 68% from the prior year. The increase in 

gross profit was due to the incremental sales volumes associated with the NGL and the tuck-in acquisitions, the realization of US$3.6 million in 

NGL synergies and was partially offset with lower wholesale volumes related to the sale of certain refined fuel assets. Residential sales volumes 

increased by 281 million litres or 112% from the prior year due primarily to the NGL and tuck-in acquisitions. Commercial sales volumes were 

consistent with the prior year, as the sale of certain refined fuel assets and a decrease in distillate sales was offset by additional sales volumes 

related to NGL and tuck-in acquisitions. Wholesale volumes decreased by 513 million litres or 70% due to the sale of certain refined fuel assets 

which included the wholesale distillate business in the second quarter. Average weather across the Northeast U.S. for the year related to the legacy 

business, as measured by degree days, was 9% colder than the prior year and 4% colder than the five-year average. From the date of acquisition, 

average weather for markets where NGL operates was 1% colder than the prior year and 9% colder than the five-year average.

Average U.S. propane distribution sales margins were 25.6 cents per litre, an increase of 103% from 12.6 cents per litre in the prior year, primarily 

due to customer mix. U.S. propane distribution benefitted from a higher proportion of residential sales volumes as a result of the NGL and other 

tuck-in acquisitions and a lower proportion of wholesale volumes as a result of the sale of certain refined fuel assets and the wholesale business. 

U.S. Propane Distribution Sales Volumes

Volumes by End-Use Application(1)

(millions of litres) 

Residential

Commercial

Wholesale

Total

(1)	 Includes	heating	oil,	propane,	diesel	and	gasoline	sold	in	over	22	states	primarily	in	the	Eastern	United	States.

10  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

2018

531

359

215

1,105

2017

250

359

728

1,337

  
  
  
Other Services

Other services primarily include equipment installation, repair and maintenance, tank rentals, and other customer charges. Gross profit was  

$49.5 million, an increase of $19.5 million or 65% from the prior year primarily due to incremental service revenue associated with NGL and to a 

lesser extent, Canwest. 

Selling, Distribution and Administrative Costs

Selling, distribution and administrative costs were $608.7 million, an increase of $200.9 million or 49% over the prior year. The increase in selling, 

distribution and administrative costs is primarily due to the acquisition of NGL, and the full year impact of Canwest which closed at the end of the 

third quarter in 2017 and to a lesser extent, the other tuck-in acquisitions completed during 2018 and the prior year. 

Net Earnings

Net income before tax of $73.4 million, decreased by $35.2 million over the prior year, as a result of higher amortization on a higher asset base, 

unrealized losses on derivative financial instruments compared to a gain in the prior year, partially offset by a gain on disposal of assets, and higher 

EBITDA from operations.

Financial Outlook

EBITDA from operations in 2019 for Energy Distribution is anticipated to be higher than 2018. The anticipated increase in EBITDA is primarily due 

to the full year results from NGL, incremental NGL synergies of US$6.4 million, incremental Canwest synergies $5.0 million and the full year results 

from tuck-in acquisitions completed in 2018. Supply market fundamentals in the Canadian propane distribution business are anticipated to be 

consistent with 2018. Average weather, as measured by degree days, for 2019 is anticipated to be consistent with the five-year average.  

This guidance excludes the impact of adopting IFRS 16. Superior will update this guidance for the adoption of IFRS 16 in the first quarter of 2019, 

see “New and revised IFRS standards” for further details.

In addition to the significant assumptions referred to above, refer to “Forward-Looking Information” and “Risk Factors to Superior” for a detailed 

review of significant business risks affecting the Energy Distribution businesses.

Specialty Chemicals

Specialty Chemicals’ condensed operating results for 2018 and 2017:

(millions of dollars except per metric tonne (MT) amounts)

Revenue

Cost of Sales

Gross Profit (1)

Selling, distribution and administrative costs

Add back (deduct):

Depreciation included in cost of sales

Loss on disposal of assets and other

Amortization included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

EBITDA from operations(2)

Add back (deduct):

Loss on disposal of assets and other

Amortization included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

Depreciation included in cost of sales

Finance expense

Net earnings before tax

2017

$ per MT 

748

(489)

259

(172)

61

148

2018

$ per MT 

810

(532)

278

(179)

64

1

164

676.5

(444.5)

232.0

(149.3)

53.6

0.2

1.1

137.6

(0.2)

(1.1)

(53.6)

(2.3)

80.4

636.4

(416.4)

220.0

(146.4)

52.3

0.5 

—

126.4

(0.5)

—

(52.3)

(0.7)

72.9

(1)  Gross	Profit	per	MT	after	adding	back	depreciation	included	in	cost	of	sales	for	the	2018	was	$342/MT	and	for	2017	was	$320/MT.

(2)	 EBITDA	from	operations	is	a	Non-GAAP	financial	measure.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”	and	“Reconciliation	of	Net	Earnings	before	Income	Taxes	to	EBITDA	from	

Operations”.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  11

 
Sales Volumes by Product

(thousands of MTs)

Sodium chlorate

Chlor-alkali

Chlorite

Total

2018

474

353

8

835

2017

502

341

8

851

Revenue for 2018 was $676.5 million, an increase of $40.1 million or 6% from the prior year. The increase was primarily due to higher chlor-alkali 

average selling prices and higher sales volumes, and was partially offset by lower sodium chlorate sales volumes. 

Sodium chlorate sales volumes decreased by 28 MTs or 6% over the prior year primarily due to lower contracted sales volumes in 2018, lower 

demand in areas impacted by hurricane damage and lower export demand. The average annual sales price was consistent with the prior year.

Chlor-alkali sales volumes increased by 12 MTs or 4% due to continued strong demand for hydrochloric acid primarily from the U.S. oil and gas 

sector related to rig activity and continued strong demand for caustic soda. Caustic potash volumes were consistent with the prior year and chlorine 

volumes decreased as more chlorine was converted into hydrochloric acid. Chlorite sales volumes were consistent with the prior year.

Gross profit was $232.0 million, an increase of $12.0 million or 5% from the prior year primarily due to higher average sale prices and volumes 

for caustic soda and hydrochloric acid, partially offset by higher production costs and lower sodium chlorate sales volumes. Sodium chlorate 

production costs increased primarily due to higher average electricity costs and higher costs of raw materials used in production compared to the 

prior year. 

Selling, distribution and administrative costs were $149.3 million, an increase of $2.9 million over the prior year primarily due to higher distribution 

costs and to a lesser extent, higher amortization expense as a result of the IDI acquisition which closed in the fourth quarter of the prior year. 

Net earnings before tax for 2018 was $80.4 million, an increase of $7.5 million or 10% over the prior year as a result of higher gross profit and was 

partially offset by higher distribution costs and higher depreciation and amortization expense related primarily to the IDI acquisition.

Financial Outlook

EBITDA from operations for Specialty Chemicals in 2019 is anticipated to be consistent to modestly lower than 2018. Sodium chlorate gross profit 

is anticipated to be consistent with 2018 as modest improvements in contracted sales prices and volumes, and lower maintenance expense is 

expected to be offset by increases in electricity mill rates. Chlor-alkali gross profit is anticipated to be consistent to modestly lower than 2018 

due to lower sales volumes for caustic soda because of reduced exports from North America creating additional domestic supply and increased 

input costs partially offset by increases in average hydrochloric acid prices. This guidance excludes the impact of adopting IFRS 16. Superior will 

update this guidance for the adoption of IFRS 16 in the first quarter of 2019, see “New and revised IFRS standards” for further details. In addition 

to the significant assumptions detailed above, refer to “Forward-Looking Information” and to “Risk Factors to Superior” for a detailed review of the 

significant business risks affecting Superior’s Specialty Chemicals segment.

Consolidated Capital Expenditure Summary

Superior classifies its capital expenditures into three main categories: efficiency, process improvement and growth-related; maintenance capital; 

and investment in finance leases. 

Efficiency, process improvement and growth-related expenditures include expenditures such as the acquisition of new customer equipment to 

facilitate growth, system upgrades and initiatives to facilitate improvements in customer service. The capital expenditures are discretionary and 

non-recurring.

Maintenance capital expenditures include required regulatory spending on tank refurbishments, replacement of chlorine railcars, replacement of 

plant equipment and any other required expenditures related to maintaining operations.

12  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

  
Superior’s capital expenditures for 2018 and 2017:

(millions of dollars)

Efficiency, process improvement and growth-related

Maintenance capital

Proceeds on disposition of capital and intangible assets 

Property, plant and equipment acquired through acquisition(1)

Total net capital expenditures

Investment in finance leases 

Total expenditures including finance leases

2018

28.8

73.4

102.2

(22.7)

417.7

497.2

16.0

513.2

2017

19.8

57.2

77.0

(7.6)

193.2

262.6

24.9

287.5

(1)	 The	September	30,	2017	Canwest	balance	for	property,	plant	and	equipment	acquired	through	acquisition	was	restated	to	a	fair	value	upon	completion	of	the	purchase	

price	allocation,	see	note	3	in	Superior’s	audited	consolidated	financial	statements	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2018

Efficiency, process improvement and growth-related expenditures were $28.8 million for 2018, compared to $19.8 million in the prior year.  

The increase is primarily due to business improvements related to the Canwest integration. The above table excludes the acquisition of a customer 

list in Atlantic Canada for approximately $3.5 million during the second quarter of 2018 which is included in intangible assets.

Maintenance capital expenditures were $73.4 million for 2018, compared to $57.2 million in the prior year, consisting primarily of required 

maintenance and general capital across Superior’s segments. The increase is primarily due to the NGL acquisition and the full year impact of Canwest. 

Property, plant and equipment acquired through acquisition is the allocation of fair value to these assets related to the acquisitions completed 

during the year.

Superior entered into new leases with capital-equivalent value of $16.0 million for 2018, compared to $24.9 million in the prior year, primarily 

related to vehicles for the Energy Distribution segment to support growth and replace aging vehicles. The decrease is due primarily to the 

integration of the Canwest business decreasing the amount of new vehicles required.

Capital expenditures were funded from a combination of operating cash flow and revolving-term bank credit facilities. 

Corporate Administration Costs

Corporate administration costs are $42.3 million for 2018, an increase of $3.0 million, compared to $39.3 million in the prior year. The increase 

is primarily due to higher corporate transaction costs and is partially offset by lower incentive plan costs related to the share price decline in the 

fourth quarter of 2018.

Finance Expense 

Interest expense on borrowing and finance lease obligations was $85.8 million for 2018, an increase of $32.0 million, compared to $53.8 million in 

the prior year. The increase was primarily due to higher average debt balances and the $9.8 million early call premium related to the redemption 

of the 6.5% senior unsecured notes. Average debt balances for 2018 were higher than the prior year primarily due to the financing of the NGL and 

tuck-in acquisitions as well as the increased working capital requirements related to the higher proportion of residential customers associated with 

the NGL business.

Transaction and Other Costs

Superior’s transaction and other costs have been categorized together and excluded from segmented results. The table below summarizes these 

costs:

(millions of dollars)

Total transaction, restructuring and integration costs

2018

2017

  39.5

  33.1

Superior incurred $39.5 million in costs related primarily to the acquisition and integration of NGL and to a lesser extent, the other tuck-in 

acquisitions. The costs in the prior year related primarily to the acquisition, integration, and restructuring of Canwest.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  13

  
 
 
Income Taxes

Consistent with prior periods, Superior recognizes a provision for income taxes for its subsidiaries that are subject to current and deferred income 

taxes, including Canada, U.S., Luxembourg, and Chilean income tax. 

Total income tax recovery for 2018 was $0.3 million, comprised of $1.9 million in cash income tax expense and a $2.2 million deferred income 

tax recovery. This compares to a total income tax expense of $143.7 million in the prior year, which consisted of $3.3 million in cash income tax 

expense and a $140.4 million deferred income tax expense.

Cash income taxes for the 2018 was $1.9 million, consisting of an income tax recovery in Canada of $2.1 million (2017 – $1.9 million cash tax 

expense), income taxes in the U.S. of $0.5 million (2017 – $1.4 million recovery), income taxes in Chile of $2.2 million (2017 – $2.1 million), and 

income taxes in Luxembourg of $1.3 million (2017 – $0.7 million). Deferred income tax recovery for 2018 was $2.2 million (2017 – $140.4 million 

expense), resulting in a net deferred income tax asset of $24.0 million as at December 31, 2018. The decrease in deferred income tax expense was 

due to settling the dispute with the CRA in 2017 with respect to the company’s corporate conversion transaction.

As at December 31, 2018, Superior had the following tax pools available to be used in future years:

Canada

Tax basis

Non-capital losses

Capital losses

Canadian scientific research expenditures

Investment tax credits

United States

Tax basis

Non-capital losses

Chile

Tax basis

Financial Outlook

(millions of dollars)

352.6

8.0

2.5

227.5

88.2

1,105.2

515.3

20.6

Superior achieved 2018 Adjusted EBITDA of $374.3 million which was at the top of the guidance range of $345 million to $375 million, and AOCF 

before transaction and other costs per share of $1.91 was towards the top end of the guidance range of $1.75 to $1.95 per share provided in its 

third quarter MD&A. See the detailed discussion on each segment for a breakdown of the results achieved. 

Superior’s current 2019 Adjusted EBITDA guidance range of $445 million to $495 million is consistent with the guidance provided in its third quarter 

2018 MD&A. This guidance excludes the impact of adopting IFRS 16. Superior will update this guidance for the adoption of IFRS 16 in the first 

quarter of 2019, see “New and revised IFRS standards” for further details. Achieving Superior’s Adjusted EBITDA depends on the operating results 

of its segments. In addition to the operating results of Superior’s segments, significant assumptions underlying the achievement of Superior’s 2019 

midpoint guidance are:

 » Economic growth in Canada and the U.S. is expected to increase modestly;

 » Superior is expected to continue to attract capital and obtain financing on acceptable terms;

 » Superior estimates maintenance and growth-related expenditures, and the capital equivalent of operating leases to be in the range of  

$120 million to $140 million in 2019;

 » Superior is substantively hedged for its estimated U.S. dollar exposure for 2019, and due to the hedge position, a change in the Canadian to 

U.S, dollar exchange rate for 2019 would not have a material impact to Superior. 

 » The foreign currency exchange rate between the Canadian dollar and U.S. dollar is expected to average $0.78 for 2019 on all unhedged foreign 

currency transactions; 

 »

Financial and physical counterparties are expected to continue fulfilling their obligations to Superior;

 » Regulatory authorities are not expected to impose any new regulations impacting Superior;

 » Superior’s average interest rate on floating-rate debt is expected to modestly increase compared to 2018; interest expense is anticipated to 

increase due to higher average debt levels related to the Canwest and NGL acquisition and the interest costs for the Notes; 

 » Realized losses on foreign currency hedging contracts are anticipated to be higher than 2018 due to the decrease in the average hedge rate; 

and

 » Canadian, Chilean and U.S.-based cash taxes are expected to be in the range of $5 million to $10 million for 2019 based on existing statutory 

income tax rates and the ability to use available tax basis.

14  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Energy Distribution

 » Wholesale propane prices are not anticipated to significantly affect demand for propane and related services; 

 » Operating costs are expected to be lower due to continuous improvement initiatives, restructuring activities and realizing synergies related to 

Canwest and NGL; and

 »

Increasing US margin per litre as NGL pricing and the cost of propane are integrated into the legacy business.

Specialty Chemicals

 » Average plant utilization will approximate 90%–95% in 2019.

In addition to Superior’s significant assumptions detailed above, refer to “Forward-Looking Information”, and for a detailed review of Superior’s 

significant business risks, refer to “Risk Factors to Superior.”

Debt Management Update

Superior remains focused on managing both its debt and its leverage ratio. Superior’s leverage ratio was 4.1x as at December 31, 2018. The debt 

level and leverage ratio as at December 31, 2018 was higher than December 31, 2017, due to increased borrowings on the credit facilities and the 

issuance of unsecured notes associated with the NGL and tuck-in acquisitions and to a lesser extent, the impact of the weaker Canadian dollar as 

at December 31, 2018 compared to December 31, 2017. The impact to the leverage ratio due to the weaker Canadian dollar was approximately 

0.1x. The leverage ratio is currently above the long-term target of 3.0x. Superior anticipates the leverage ratio to be in the range of 3.6x to 4.0x as 

at December 31, 2019 as cash generated from operations is used to repay debt. Superior will update guidance for the adoption of IFRS 16 and the 

related impact to the leverage ratio in the first quarter of 2019, see “New and revised IFRS standards” for further details.

Leverage ratio is a Non-GAAP measure, see “Non-GAAP Financial Measures”.

In addition to Superior’s significant assumptions detailed above, refer to “Forward-Looking Information” and for a detailed review of Superior’s 

significant business risks, refer to “Risk Factors to Superior.”

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Borrowing

Superior’s revolving syndicated bank facility (credit facility), term loans and finance lease obligations (collectively borrowing) before deferred 

financing fees was $1,886.3 million as at December 31, 2018, an increase of $822.9 million from $1,063.4 million as at December 31, 2017. The 

increase is primarily due to the acquisition of NGL and to a lesser extent, the impact of the weaker Canadian dollar on US denominated borrowing 

and was partially offset by the proceeds from the sale of certain refined fuel assets. 

Superior’s total and available sources of credit are detailed below:

(millions of dollars)

Revolving term bank credit facilities (1) 

Term loans(1)

Other debt(2)

Finance lease obligations

Total

As at December 31, 2018

Total
Amount

750.0

1,247.3

25.9

63.8

Borrowing

Letters of
Credit Issued

41.9

549.3

1,247.3

25.9

63.8

Amount
Available

158.8

2,087.0

1,886.3

41.9

158.8

(1)  Revolving	term	bank	credit	facilities	and	term	loan	balances	are	presented	before	deferred	financing	fees.

(2)	 Account	receivable	factoring	and	deferred	consideration.

On June 29, 2018, the syndicated credit facility was increased to $750.0 million from the existing $620.0 million. The credit facility can be further 

expanded up to $1,050.0 million with no changes to the financial covenants and matures on May 8, 2023. On July 3, 2018, Superior announced the 

closing of US$350 million principal amount of 7.0% senior unsecured notes issued at par and due July 15, 2026. In addition, Superior concurrently 

issued $150 million, 5.125% senior unsecured notes due August 27, 2025 at a price of $928.97 per $1,000 principal amount. 

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  15

 
Net Working Capital

Consolidated net working capital was $97.3 million as at December 31, 2018 a decrease of $18.4 million from $115.7 million as at December 31, 

2017. The decrease is primarily due to higher customer deposits related to the NGL acquisition and the impact of the sale of certain refined  

fuel assets.

Compliance

In accordance with the credit facility, Superior must maintain certain covenants and ratios that require Non-GAAP financial measures. Superior is 

in compliance with the lender covenants as at December 31, 2018 and the covenant details are found in the credit facility documents filed in the 

System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (“SEDAR”). 

Pension Plans

As at December 31, 2018, Superior had an estimated defined benefit going concern surplus of approximately $7.8 million (December 31, 2017 –  

$26.2 million surplus) and a pension solvency deficiency of approximately $0.7 million (December 31, 2017 – $4.5 million surplus). Funding 

requirements required by applicable pension legislation are based upon going concern and solvency actuarial assumptions. These assumptions 

differ from the going concern actuarial assumptions used in Superior’s audited consolidated financial statements.

Contractual Obligations and Other Commitments

(millions of dollars)

Borrowing excluding finance leases

Future lease payment under finance leases

Operating leases(2)

US$ foreign currency forward sales contracts (US$)

Natural gas, diesel, WTI, propane, heating oil, and  
electricity purchase commitments(3)

Total contractual obligations

(1)	 	Notes	to	the	2018	audited	consolidated	financial	statements.

(2)	 Operating	leases	comprise	Superior’s	off-balance-sheet	obligations.

(3)	 Does	not	include	the	impact	of	financial	derivatives.

Note(1)

14

14

15

17

17

Total

1,822.5

63.8

191.9

504.6

121.4

2,704.2

Payments Due In

2020–2021

2022–2023

Thereafter

11.6

22.1

56.2

239.1

106.9

435.9

552.0

1,247.6

16.1

40.1

52.5

9.6

670.3

7.5

58.0

—

—

1,313.2

2019

11.3

18.1

37.6

213.0

4.9

284.8

In the normal course of business, Superior is subject to lawsuits and claims. Superior believes the resolution of these matters will not have a 

material adverse effect, individually or in the aggregate, on Superior’s liquidity, consolidated financial position or results of operations. Superior 

records costs as they are incurred or when they become determinable.

16  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Shareholders’ Capital

On June 8, 2018, Superior completed a public offering of 32 million subscription receipts at a price of $12.50 per subscription receipt, raising gross 

proceeds of $400.0 million. On July 13, 2018, after completion of the NGL acquisition, the Company exchanged the subscription receipts and issued 

32 million common shares of the Company. 

On September 27, 2018, Superior entered into an At-the-Market equity distribution agreement to enable the sale of common shares from treasury 

having aggregate gross proceeds of up to $100 million at prevailing trading prices. On September 29, 2018 Superior issued 29,300 common shares 

at an average price of $12.76 per share for total net proceeds of $0.4 million through this program. Superior incurred a commission of 2% on the 

gross proceeds. The At-the-Market equity distribution agreement expired on December 9, 2018.

As at December 31, 2018, the following common shares were issued and outstanding: 

Balance, December 31, 2017 and 2016

Issuance of common shares

Balance December 31, 2018

Dividends Declared to Shareholders

Issued number 
of common 
shares (Millions)

142.8

32.1

174.9

Share  
Capital

$  1,952.3

$ 

386.4

$  2,338.7

Dividends declared to Superior’s shareholders depend on its cash flow from operating activities with consideration for Superior’s changes in 

working capital requirements, investing activities and financing activities. See “Summary of AOCF” for 2018, above, and “Summary of Cash Flow”  

for additional details. 

Dividends declared to shareholders for 2018 were $114.4 million or $0.72 per share compared to $102.8 million or $0.72 per share for 2017. 

Dividends declared to shareholders increased by $10.3 million as a result of the increase in the number of outstanding shares. Dividends to 

shareholders are declared at the discretion of Superior’s Board of Directors. 

Superior has a DRIP program that is currently not being utilized. The DRIP program remains in place should Superior elect to reactivate the DRIP, 

subject to regulatory approval, at a future date.

Normal Course Issuer Bid

On May 8, 2018 the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX”) accepted a notice filed by Superior of its intention to commence a normal course issuer 

bid (the “NCIB”) with respect to its common shares. Under the NCIB, Superior may purchase up to 7,142,141 common shares, such amount 

representing 5% of the 142,842,820 common shares issued and outstanding as at May 1, 2018. The NCIB is subject to additional standard regulatory 

requirements.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  17

 
 
Summary of Cash Flow

Superior’s primary sources and uses of cash are detailed below:

(millions of dollars)

Cash flows (used in) from operating activities

Investing activities:

  Acquisitions, net of cash acquired and assets sold

Purchase of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

Proceeds on sale of assets

Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment

Cash flows (used in) from investing activities

Financing activities:

  Net proceeds (repayment) of revolving term bank credits and other debt

  Redemption of 6.0% convertible debentures

  Redemption of 6.5% senior unsecured notes

Proceeds from 7.0% senior unsecured notes

Proceeds from 5.25% senior unsecured notes

Proceeds from 5.125% senior unsecured notes

  Repayment of finance lease obligation

Proceeds from share issuance, net of costs

  Debt issuance costs

  Dividends paid to shareholders

Cash flows from (used in) financing activities

  Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

  Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

Effect of translation of foreign currency-denominated cash

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

December 31

2017

183.1

2018

263.0

(1,259.6)

(105.8)

91.9

22.7

(494.6)

(77.0)

—

7.6

(1,250.8)

(564.0)

135.0

—

(209.8)

458.5

—

362.5

(17.1)

381.4

(17.9)

(112.5)

980.1

(7.7)

31.8

(0.2)

23.9

229.4

(97.0)

—

—

400.0

(16.0)

—

(7.2)

—

(102.8)

406.4

25.5

5.0

1.3

31.8

Cash flows from operating activities for 2018 was $263.0 million, increase of $79.9 million, from 2017. The increase is a result of higher earnings 

related to NGL and other tuck-in acquisitions and the full year impact of Canwest and were partially offset by increased interest paid primarily due 

to higher debt levels.

Cash flow used in investing activities for 2018 was $1,250.8 million, $686.8 million higher than the prior year primarily due to the NGL acquisition 

and to a lesser extent, the other tuck-in acquisitions.

Cash flow from financing activities was $980.1 million, an increase of $573.7 million from the prior year primarily due to the financing to fund the 

NGL acquisition and was offset by the redemption of the 6.5% unsecured notes.

Financial Instruments – Risk Management

Derivative and non-financial derivatives are used by Superior to manage its exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, interest 

rates, share-based compensation and commodity prices. Superior assesses the inherent risks of these instruments by grouping derivative and 

non-financial derivatives related to the exposures these instruments mitigate. Superior’s policy is not to use derivative or non-financial derivative 

instruments for speculative purposes. Superior does not formally designate its derivatives as hedges and, as a result, Superior does not apply hedge 

accounting and is required to designate its derivatives and non-financial derivatives as held for trading. 

As at December 31, 2018 Superior has hedged approximately 77% of its estimated U.S. dollar exposure for 2019 and approximately 54% for 

2020. Due to the hedge position, a change in the Canadian to U.S. dollar exchange rate for 2019 would not have a material impact on Superior. A 

summary of Superior’s U.S. dollar forward contracts for 2019 and beyond is provided in the table below.

(US$ millions except exchange rates)

Net US$ forward sales

Net average external US$/CDN$ exchange rate

2019

213.0

1.27

2020

161.1

1.30

2021

78.0

1.30

2022

52.5

1.30

2023

—

—

Total

504.6

1.28

18  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
For additional details on Superior’s financial instruments, including the amount and classification of gains and losses recorded in Superior’s annual 

consolidated financial statements, summary of fair values, notional balances, effective rates and terms, and significant assumptions used in the 

calculation of the fair value of Superior’s financial instruments, see Note 17 to the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended 

December 31, 2018.

Sensitivity Analysis 

Superior’s estimated cash flow sensitivity in 2018 to various changes is provided below:

Energy Distribution

Change in Canadian propane sales margin

Change in Canadian propane sales volume

Change in U.S. propane sales margin

Change in U.S. propane sales volume

Specialty Chemicals

Change in sales price

Change in sales volume

Corporate

Change

% Change

Impact on 
AOCF (millions)

Per Share

$  0.005/litre

50 million litres

$  0.005/litre

50 million litres

$    10.00/MT

15,000 MT

3%

2%

2%

5%

1%

2%

$  11.1

$    0.06

$    7.3

$    0.04

$    5.5

$    0.03

$  10.0

$    0.06

$    6.7

$    0.04

$    3.3

$    0.02

Change in CDN$/US$ exchange rate on US$ denominated debt

$         0.01

Change in interest rates

0.50%

1%

13%

$    5.5

$    0.03

$    2.4

$    0.01

Disclosure Controls and Procedures and Internal Controls over Financial Reporting 

Disclosure controls and procedures (DC&P) are designed by or under the supervision of Superior’s President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) 

and the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in order to provide reasonable assurance that all material information relating 

to Superior is communicated to them by others in the organization as it becomes known and is appropriately disclosed as required under the 

continuous disclosure requirements of securities legislation and regulation. In essence, these types of controls are related to the quality, reliability 

and transparency of financial and non-financial information that is filed or submitted under securities legislation and regulation. The CEO and CFO 

are assisted in this responsibility by a Disclosure Committee, which is composed of senior leadership of Superior. The Disclosure Committee has 

established procedures so that it becomes aware of any material information affecting Superior in order to evaluate and discuss this information 

and determine the appropriateness and timing of its public release. 

Internal Controls over Financial Reporting (ICFR) are also designed by or under the supervision of Superior’s CEO and CFO and effected by Superior’s 

Board of Directors, management and other personnel in order to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting 

and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with IFRS. A control system, no matter how well conceived 

and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that its objectives are met. Due to inherent limitations in all such systems, 

no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues within a company have been detected. Accordingly, Superior’s 

disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the corporation’s disclosure 

control system are met.

Changes in Internal Controls over Financial Reporting

No changes were made in Superior’s ICFR that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, Superior’s ICFR in the year 

ended December 31, 2018.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  19

 
Effectiveness

An evaluation of the effectiveness of Superior’s DC&P and ICFR was conducted as at December 31, 2018 by and under the supervision of Superior’s 

management, including the CEO and CFO. Based on this evaluation, the CEO and CFO have concluded that Superior’s DC&P and ICFR were effective 

at December 31, 2018 with the following exception:

Section 3.3(1) of National Instrument 52-109, Certification of Disclosure in Issuers’ Annual and Interim Filings, states that a company may limit its 

design of disclosure controls and procedures and internal controls over financial reporting for a business that it acquired not more than 365 days 

before the end of the financial period to which the certificate relates. Under this section, Superior’s CEO and CFO have limited the scope of the 

design, and subsequent evaluation, of DC&P and ICFR to exclude controls, policies and procedures of NGL effective July 10, 2018. Summary financial 

information pertaining to these acquisitions that was included in the consolidated financial statements of Superior as at December 31, 2018, is  

as follows:

U.S. Propane Distribution – NGL

(millions of Canadian dollars)

Sales

Net loss for the period

Current assets

Non-current assets

Current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Three  
Months Ended  
December 31, 2018  
NGL

Year Ended  
December 31, 2018  
NGL

186.1

14.7

112.3

1,216.0

83.1

11.8

245.8

19.9

112.3

1,216.0

83.1

11.8

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Superior’s audited consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with IFRS. The significant accounting policies are described in the 

audited consolidated financial statements for the period ended December 31, 2018. Certain of these accounting policies, as well as estimates made 

by management in applying such policies, are recognized as critical because they require management to make subjective or complex judgments 

about matters that are inherently uncertain. Superior’s critical accounting estimates relate to the allowance for doubtful accounts, employee future 

benefits, deferred income tax assets and liabilities, the valuation of financial and non-financial derivatives, asset impairments and the assessment of 

potential provision retirement obligations.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Certain new standards, interpretations, amendments and improvements to existing standards were issued by the International Accounting 

Standards Board (IASB) or International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (IFRIC) effective for accounting periods beginning on or  

after January 1, 2019, or later periods. The standards applicable to Superior are as follows:

Change in Accounting Policies

IFRS 9 – Financial Instruments

The Company adopted IFRS 9 Financial Instruments with a date of initial application of January 1, 2018. IFRS 9 introduces new requirements for  

the classification and measurement of financial assets. IFRS 9 requires all recognized financial assets to be measured at amortized cost or fair value 

in subsequent accounting periods following initial recognition. IFRS 9 also amends the requirements around hedge accounting, and introduces  

a single, forward-looking expected loss impairment model.

The Company has elected to apply the limited exemption in IFRS 9 relating to transition for classification and measurement and impairment, 

and accordingly has not restated comparative periods in the year of initial application. The adoption of IFRS 9 had no impact on the Company’s 

consolidated financial statements on the date of initial application. There was no change in the carrying amounts on the basis of allocation  

from original measurement categories under IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement to the new measurement categories 

under IFRS 9.

20  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

IFRS 15 – Revenue from Contracts with Customers

IFRS 15 supersedes IAS 11 Construction Contracts, IAS 18 Revenue and related interpretations and it applies to all revenue arising from contracts 

with customers, unless those contracts are in the scope of other standards. The new standards establishes a five-step model to account for revenue 

arising from contracts with customers. Under IFRS 15, revenue is recognized at an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity 

expects to be entitled in exchange for transferring goods or services to a customer. The standard requires entities to exercise judgment, taking 

into consideration all of the relevant facts and circumstances when applying each step of the model to contracts with customers. The standard also 

specifies the accounting for the incremental costs of obtaining a contract and the costs directly related to fulfilling a contract. 

The Company adopted IFRS 15 using the modified retrospective method of adoption and applied the practical expedient in IFRS 15, under which 

the Company does not disclose the amount of consideration allocated to the remaining performance obligations or an explanation of when the 

Company expects to recognize that amount as revenue for all reporting periods presented before the date of the initial application being January 1, 

2018. The details and quantitative impact of the changes upon adoption of this standard are:

(i)   Revenue from sale of propane 

Certain propane contracts also include use of storage tanks for a range of charges and promotional discounts. The selling price allocated to the 

use of storage tanks is based on the residual value after allocating the observable stand-alone selling price to the sale of propane. The adoption 

of this policy resulted in an increase to contract liabilities of $10.4 million and an offsetting adjustment to deficit as of January 1, 2018 and had 

no impact to the net earnings for the year ended December 31, 2017.

 As a result of this adjustment, Superior’s net deferred tax asset was increased by $2.8 million with an offsetting adjustment to deficit as of 

January 1, 2018. 

(ii)   Transportation revenue 

Revenue from sale of Specialty Chemicals is recognized when control of the goods has transferred and the customer has full discretion over the 

goods. Sales where the Company arranges and charges for freight is considered a separate performance obligation. Consequently, the portion 

of revenue related to freight is recognized when the goods are delivered to their destination instead of when the product is shipped. The costs 

associated with this revenue will also be accrued and recognized at this time. The adoption of this policy resulted in a reduction of $0.1 million to 

trade and other receivable and trade and other payables as at January 1, 2018. 

New and Revised IFRS Standards Not Yet Effective

IFRIC 23 – Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatment

On June 23, 2017, the IASB issued IFRIC Interpretation 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments, which clarifies how to apply the recognition 

and measurement requirements in IAS 12 Income Taxes when there is uncertainty over income tax treatments. Application of the standard is 

mandatory for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019, with earlier application permitted. The Company adopted the new 

standard beginning January 1, 2019.

IFRS 16 – Leases

On January 13, 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16 Leases, which requires lessees to recognize assets and liabilities for most leases, as well as 

corresponding amortization and finance expense. Application of the standard is mandatory for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 

January 1, 2019, with earlier application permitted. The Company adopted the new standard beginning January 1, 2019. 

The Company is finalizing the impact of the new standard which will be reported in the Company’s 2019 first quarter results. The estimated opening 

adjustment will be to record a right-of-use asset between $175 million and $200 million with an offsetting increase to liabilities.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  21

 
 
Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Throughout the MD&A, Superior has used the following terms that are not defined by GAAP, but are used by management to evaluate the 

performance of Superior and its business. These measures may also be used by investors, financial institutions and credit rating agencies to assess 

Superior’s performance and ability to service debt. Non-GAAP financial measures do not have standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP and are 

therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Securities regulations require that Non-GAAP financial 

measures be clearly defined, qualified and reconciled to their most comparable GAAP financial measures. Except as otherwise indicated, these  

Non-GAAP financial measures are calculated and disclosed on a consistent basis from period to period. Specific items may only be relevant in 

certain periods. 

The intent of non-GAAP financial measures is to provide additional useful information to investors and analysts, and the measures do not 

have any standardized meaning under IFRS. The measures should not, therefore, be considered in isolation or used in substitute for measures 

of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Other issuers may calculate non-GAAP financial measures differently. Investors should be 

cautioned that AOCF, EBITDA from operations, and Adjusted EBITDA should not be construed as alternatives to net earnings, cash flow from 

operating activities or other measures of financial results determined in accordance with GAAP as an indicator of Superior’s performance.  

Non-GAAP financial measures are identified and defined as follows:

AOCF and AOCF per Share

AOCF is equal to cash flow from operating activities as defined by IFRS, adjusted for changes in non-cash working capital, other expenses, non-cash 

interest expense, current income taxes and finance costs. Superior may deduct or include additional items in its calculation of AOCF; these items 

would generally, but not necessarily, be infrequent in nature and could distort the analysis of trends in business performance. Excluding these 

items does not imply they are non-recurring. AOCF and AOCF per share are presented before and after transaction and other costs. 

AOCF per share before transaction and other costs is calculated by dividing AOCF before transaction and other costs by the weighted average 

number of shares outstanding. AOCF per share is calculated by dividing AOCF by the weighted average number of shares outstanding. 

AOCF is the main performance measure used by management and investors to evaluate Superior’s ongoing performance of its businesses and 

ability to generate cash flow. AOCF represents cash flow generated by Superior that is available for, but not necessarily limited to, changes in 

working capital requirements, investing activities and financing activities. AOCF is also used as one component in determining short-term incentive 

compensation for certain management employees. 

The seasonality of Superior’s individual quarterly results must be assessed in the context of annualized AOCF. Adjustments recorded by Superior 

as part of its calculation of AOCF include, but are not limited to, the impact of the seasonality of Superior’s businesses, principally the Energy 

Distribution segment, by adjusting for non-cash working capital items, thereby eliminating the impact of the timing between the recognition and 

collection/payment of Superior’s revenue and expenses, which can differ significantly from quarter to quarter. 

Adjusted EBITDA 

Adjusted EBITDA represents earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, losses (gains) on disposal of assets, finance expense, 

restructuring costs, transaction and other costs, and unrealized gains (losses) on derivative financial instruments. Adjusted EBITDA is used by 

Superior and investors to assess its consolidated results and ability to service debt. Adjusted EBITDA is reconciled to net earnings before  

income taxes.

EBITDA from Operations

EBITDA from operations is defined as Adjusted EBITDA excluding costs that are not considered representative of Superior’s underlying core 

operating performance, including gains and losses on foreign currency hedging contracts, corporate costs and transaction and other costs. 

Management uses EBITDA from operations to set targets for Superior (including annual guidance and variable compensation targets). EBITDA from 

operations is reconciled to net earnings before income taxes.

Proforma Adjusted EBITDA, and Leverage Ratio

Proforma Adjusted EBITDA is defined as Adjusted EBITDA calculated on a trailing twelve month (TTM) basis, including pre-acquisition Adjusted 

EBITDA related to acquisitions completed during the TTM period. Leverage ratio is calculated by taking borrowing before deferred financing costs 

divided by Proforma Adjusted EBITDA. Leverage ratio is used by Superior and investors to assess its ability to service debt.

22  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Selected Financial Information

(millions of dollars except per share amounts)

GAAP measures:

Total assets (as at December 31)

  Revenue

  Gross profit

  Net loss

Per share, basic and diluted

  Cash flow from operating activities

  Dividends per share

  Current and long-term borrowing(1) (as at December 31)

Non-GAAP financial measures(2):

  AOCF

Per share, basic and diluted

  AOCF before transaction and other costs

Per share before transaction and other costs, basic and diluted

(1)	 Current	and	long-term	borrowing	before	deferred	financing	fees	and	debentures.

(2)	 See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”	and	“Reconciliation	of	Net	Earnings	to	Adjusted	EBITDA	from	Operations”.

Fourth Quarter Results

Summary of AOCF

(millions of dollars except per share amounts)

Revenue

Gross profit

EBITDA from operations(1) 

Corporate operating and administrative costs

Realized gains (losses) on foreign currency hedging contracts

Adjusted EBITDA(1) 

Interest expense

Cash income tax expense

AOCF before transaction costs

Transaction and other costs(2)

AOCF(1)

AOCF per share before transaction and other costs, basic and diluted(1)(3)

AOCF per share, basic and diluted(1)(3)

Dividends declared per share

2018

2017

3,649.6

2,726.7

938.1

(34.0)

2,336.7

2,385.0

735.4

(27.9)

$    (0.22)

$    (0.20)

263.0

183.1

$  0.72

$  0.72

1,886.3

1,063.4

262.8

217.4

$  1.66

$  1.52

302.3

250.5

$  1.91

$  1.75

Three months ended December 31

2018

887.0

319.5

162.3

(5.3)

(4.0)

153.0

(23.6)

3.3

132.7

(7.5)

125.2

2017

768.9

238.1

116.8

(8.7)

1.0

109.1

(11.5)

1.1

98.7

(4.7)

94.0

$  0.76

$  0.72

$  0.18

$  0.69

$  0.66

$  0.18

(1)	 EBITDA	from	operations,	Adjusted	EBITDA,	AOCF	before	transaction	and	other	costs,	and	AOCF	are	Non-GAAP	measures.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”.	

(2)	 Transaction	and	other	costs	for	the	three	months	ended	December	31,	2018	are	primarily	related	to	the	acquisition	of	NGL	and	other	tuck-in	acquisitions.	For	the	three	
months	ended	December	31,	2017	transaction	and	other	costs	are	primarily	related	to	the	acquisition	of	Canwest	and	other	tuck-in	acquisitions.	See	“Transaction	and	
Other	Costs”	for	further	details.

(3)  The	weighted	average	number	of	shares	outstanding	for	the	three	months	ended	December	31,	2018	and	2017	is	174.9	million	and	142.8	million,	respectively.	There	

were	no	dilutive	instruments	with	respect	to	AOCF	per	share	for	the	three	months	ended	December	31,	2018	and	2017.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  23

 
 
 
 
  
 
Comparable GAAP Financial Information 

(millions of dollars, except per share amounts) 

Net earnings (loss)

Net earnings (loss) per share, basic and diluted

Net cash flows from operating activities

Net cash flows from operating activities per share, basic and diluted

Segmented Information

(millions of dollars) 

EBITDA from operations(1)

Energy Distribution

Specialty Chemicals

(1)	 EBITDA	from	operations	is	a	Non-GAAP	measure.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures.”

AOCF

Three months ended December 31

2018

(48.3)

2017

45.3

$    (0.28)

$  0.32

41.6

59.2

$  0.24

$  0.41

Three months ended December 31

2018

2017

129.0

33.3

162.3

81.3

35.5

116.8

AOCF before transaction and other costs for the three months ended December 31, 2018 was $132.7 million, an increase of $34.0 million or 34% 

from the prior year’s fourth quarter AOCF of $98.7 million. The increase from the prior year is primarily due to the impact of the NGL acquisition, 

lower corporate and administration costs and to a lesser extent, a higher cash tax recovery and is partially offset by realized loss on foreign 

currency hedging contracts compared to a gain in the prior year. AOCF per share before transaction and other costs of $0.76 per share an increase 

by 10% compared to the prior year AOCF before transaction and other costs per share of $0.69. The increase per share is primarily due to higher 

EBITDA from operations and was partially offset by higher interest costs, loss on realized foreign currency hedging contracts and the impact of 

issuing 32.0 million common shares.

AOCF for the three months ended December 31, 2018 was $125.2 million, an increase of $31.2 million or 33% from the prior year’s fourth quarter 

AOCF of $94.0 million. AOCF per share of $0.72, an increase by 9% compared to the prior year AOCF per share of $0.66. Transaction and other 

costs for the three months ended December 31, 2018 were $7.5 million, and consisted of transaction costs related primarily to the acquisition and 

integration of NGL and the other tuck-in acquisitions. See “Transaction and Other Costs” for further details. 

Energy Distribution

Energy Distribution’s condensed operating results for the three months ended December 31, 2018 and 2017(1):

(millions of dollars) 

Revenue

Cost of Sales

Gross profit

Selling, distribution and administrative costs

Add back (deduct):

Amortization and depreciation included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

Transaction, restructuring, and other costs

Loss (gain) on disposal of assets and other

EBITDA from operations(1)

Gain (loss) on disposal of assets and other

Transaction, restructuring, and other costs

Amortization and depreciation included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

Unrealized gain (losses) on derivative financial instruments

Finance expense

Net earnings before income tax

(1)	 EBITDA	from	operations	is	a	Non-GAAP	financial	measure.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”.

24  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Three months ended December 31

2018

725.6

(457.2)

268.4

(213.9)

52.6

4.7

17.2

129.0

(17.2)

(4.7)

(52.6)

(23.4)

(2.0)

29.1

2017

608.3

(429.1)

179.2

(114.8)

14.8

3.0

(0.9)

81.3

0.9

(3.0)

(14.8)

1.6

(0.9)

65.1

Revenue for the fourth quarter of 2018 was $725.6 million, an increase of $117.3 million or 19% from the prior year quarter. The increase is 

primarily due to the NGL acquisition and is partially offset by the impact of the sale of certain refined fuel assets and to a lesser extent, lower 

Canadian propane distribution sales volumes. Total gross profit for the fourth quarter of 2018 was $268.4 million, an increase of $89.2 million or 

50% over the prior year quarter. The increase in gross profit is primarily due to the NGL and tuck-in acquisitions. A detailed review of gross profit is 

provided below.

Gross Profit Review

(millions of dollars) 

Canadian propane distribution

U.S. propane distribution

Other services

Total gross profit

Three months ended December 31

2018

117.0

132.8

18.6

268.4

2017

115.1

52.5

11.6

179.2

Canadian Propane Distribution

Canadian propane distribution gross profit for the fourth quarter of 2018 was $117.0 million, an increase of $1.9 million or 2% compared to the 

prior year quarter. The increase is primarily due to the acquisition of UPE during the quarter and is partially offset by the impact of falling butane 

prices, lower oilfield volumes, and the impact of divesting assets required by the settlement with the Competition Bureau related to the acquisition 

of Canwest. Oilfield volumes decreased by 10 million litres or 14% primarily due to reduced Western Canadian activity related to lower commodity 

prices. Industrial volumes were consistent with the prior year. Residential volumes are more weighted to Western Canada as a result of the Canwest 

acquisition and decreased due to warmer weather. Average weather across Canada was 2% warmer than the prior year quarter and 3% colder than 

the five year average.

Average propane sales margins for the fourth quarter decreased to 15.3 cents per litre from 18.0 cents per litre in the prior year primarily due to 

the increased proportion of wholesale volumes related to the acquisition of UPE and to a lesser extent continued weak market fundamentals within 

the supply portfolio management business. 

Canadian Propane Distribution Sales Volumes

Volumes by End-Use Application 

(millions of litres) 

Residential

Commercial

Oilfield(1)

Industrial(1)

Motor Fuels

Wholesale

Other

Total

(1)	 Volumes	were	reclassified	in	2017	to	conform	to	the	current	year	presentation.

Volumes by Region(1)

(millions of litres) 

Western Canada

Eastern Canada

Atlantic Canada

United States

Total

Three months ended December 31

2018

59

105

59

60

44

385

53

765

2017

62

108

69

59

46

240

57

641

Three months ended December 31

2018

2017

308

177

36

244

765

358

178

30

74

641

(1) 

 Regions:	Western	Canada	region	consists	of	British	Columbia,	Alberta,	Saskatchewan,	Manitoba,	Northwest	Ontario,	Yukon	and	Northwest	Territories;	Eastern	Canada	
region	consists	of	Ontario	(except	for	Northwest	Ontario)	and	Quebec;	Atlantic	Canada	region	consists	of	New	Brunswick,	Newfoundland	&	Labrador,	Nova	Scotia	and	
Prince	Edward	Island;	and	United	States	region	consists	primarily	of	Maine,	Idaho,	Kansas,	Michigan,	Washington,	California	and	Alaska.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  25

 
U.S. Propane Distribution

U.S. propane distribution gross profit for the fourth quarter of 2018 was $132.8 million, an increase of $80.3 million or 153% compared to the 

prior year fourth quarter, due to the contributions from NGL and tuck-in acquisitions. Sales volumes of 391 million litres were 22 million litres or 

6% higher compared to the prior year quarter. Residential sales volumes increased by 193 million litres or 224% from the prior year fourth quarter 

primarily due to the incremental volumes from the NGL and tuck-in acquisitions and to a lesser extent, colder weather. Average weather across the 

Northeast U.S. for the fourth quarter related to the legacy business, as measured by degree days, was 6% colder than the prior year and 12% colder 

than the five-year average. Average weather for markets where NGL operates were 1% colder than the prior year and 9% colder than the five-year 

average. Commercial sales volumes were consistent and wholesale volumes decreased by 170 million litres or 94% due to the sale of the wholesale 

distillate business and related assets.

Average U.S. propane distribution sales margins increased to 34.0 cents per litre in the fourth quarter of 2018 from 14.2 cents per litre in the prior 

year quarter primarily due to the higher proportion of residential sales volumes due to the NGL and tuck-in acquisitions and the sale of certain 

refined fuel assets and wholesale distillate business. 

U.S. Propane Distribution Sales Volumes

Volumes by End-Use Application(1)

(millions of litres) 

Residential

Commercial

Wholesale

Total

Three months ended December 31

2018

279

102

10

391

2017

86

103

180

369

(1)	 Includes	heating	oil,	propane,	diesel	and	gasoline	sold	in	over	twenty	states	primarily	in	the	Eastern	United	States.

Other Services

Other services gross profit was $18.6 million in the fourth quarter, increase by $7.0 million or 60% over the prior year’s fourth quarter. The increase 

is primarily due to NGL and other tuck-in acquisitions, partially offset by the sale of certain refined fuel assets and wholesale distillate business.

Selling, Distribution and Administrative Costs

Energy Distribution’s selling, distribution and administrative costs were $213.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2018, an increase of $99.1 million or 

86% from the prior year quarter. Operating costs increased mainly due to the acquisition of NGL partially offset by the sale of certain refined fuel 

assets and wholesale distillate business and realized synergies from the Canwest integration.

Net Earnings

Net earnings before tax of $29.1 million, decreased by $36.0 million over the prior year fourth quarter, as a result of higher non-cash charges for 

amortization and depreciation, a loss on disposal of assets and unrealized losses on derivative financial instruments.

26  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Specialty Chemicals

Specialty Chemicals’ condensed operating results for the three months ended December 31, 2018 and 2017:

(millions of dollars except per metric tonne (MT) amounts)

Revenue

Cost of sales

Gross Profit 

Selling, distribution and administrative costs

Add back (deduct):

Depreciation included in cost of sales

Amortization included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

Losses on disposal of assets

EBITDA from operations(1)

Add back (deduct):

Depreciation included in cost of sales

Amortization included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

Loss on disposal of assets

Finance Expense

Net earnings

Three months ended December 31

2017

$ per MT 

753

(480)

273

(175)

67

—

165

2018

$ per MT 

818

(546)

272

(189)

78

1

162

165.4

(110.3)

55.1

(38.1)

15.8

0.3

0.2

33.3

(15.8)

(0.3)

(0.2)

(1.1)

15.9

159.6

(101.7)

57.9

(37.1)

14.2

—

0.5

35.5

(14.2)

—

(0.5)

(0.3)

20.5

(1)	 EBITDA	from	operations	is	a	Non-GAAP	financial	measure.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”	and	“Reconciliation	of	Net	Earnings	to	EBITDA	from	Operations”.

Sales Volumes by Product

(thousands of MTs) 

Sodium chlorate

Chlor-alkali

Chlorite

Total

Three months ended December 31

2018

117

84

1

202

2017

127

83

2

212

Revenue for the fourth quarter of 2018 was $165.4 million was an increase of $5.8 million or 4% from the prior year fourth quarter primarily due to 

higher average sales prices for sodium chlorate, caustic soda and hydrochloric acid partially offset by lower sodium chlorite sales volumes and to a 

lesser extent, lower average sales prices for caustic potash. 

Sodium chlorate sales volumes decreased by 10 MT or 8% compared to the prior year quarter due to lower contracted sales volumes, lower 

demand in areas impacted by hurricane damage and lower export demand. The average sales price increased by 4% due to customer mix and the 

impact of the weaker Canadian dollar on US denominated sales in the fourth quarter compared to the prior year quarter.

Chlor-alkali sales volumes increased by 1 MT or 1% due to continued strong demand for caustic soda and higher caustic potash sales volumes as a 

result of a strong start to the de-icing season.

Chlorite sales volumes decreased by 1MT or 50% due to weakened oil and gas and water treatment demand. 

Cost of sales for the quarter of $110.3 was $8.6 million or 8% higher than in the prior year quarter. The increase is primarily due to higher electricity 

costs and to a lesser extent, increased depreciation due to the higher asset base. Gross profit for the fourth quarter was $55.1 million, a decrease 

of $2.8 million or 5% from the prior year quarter. The lower gross profit per MT is due primarily to lower sodium chlorate sales volumes, partially 

offset by higher average sales prices for most products. 

Selling, distribution and administrative costs of $38.1 million were $1.0 million or 3% higher than in the prior year quarter primarily due to higher 

distribution costs and higher amortization related to an acquisition in the prior year.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  27

 
Consolidated Capital Expenditure Summary

(millions of dollars) 

Efficiency, process improvement and growth-related

Maintenance capital

Proceeds on disposition of capital and intangible assets

Property, plant and equipment acquired through acquisition

Total net capital expenditures

Investment in finance leases

Total expenditures including finance leases

Three months ended December 31

2018

11.8

40.5

52.3

(8.6)

136.8

180.5

10.2

190.7

2017

10.7

20.3

31.0

(4.3)

17.6

44.3

5.6

49.9

Efficiency, process improvement and growth related expenditures were $11.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2018 compared to $10.7 million in 

the prior year quarter. The impact of the NGL acquisition is offset with the decrease associated with Canwest growth-related capital and system 

integration capital. 

Maintenance capital expenditures were $40.5 million in the fourth quarter compared to $20.3 million in the prior year quarter, an increase of 

$20.2 million mainly due to the acquisition of NGL and to a lesser extent, the timing of expenditures and tank refurbishment costs at Energy 

Distribution.

Proceeds on disposition were $8.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2018 compared to $4.3 million in the prior year primarily due to the timing of 

cash receipts related to the divestiture of assets related to the Canwest Competition Bureau approval. 

Superior entered into new leases with capital-equivalent value of $10.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2018 compared to $5.6 million in the prior 

year’s fourth quarter. Superior continues to invest in trucks and equipment to support growth and replace aging vehicles in the fleet. 

Corporate Administration Costs

Corporate administration costs were $8.1 million in the fourth quarter, compared to $11.0 million in the prior year comparable quarter.  

The $2.9 million decrease was primarily due lower incentive plan costs due to the recent decline in the share price and was partially offset by higher 

corporate transaction costs.

Finance Expense

Interest expense on borrowing and finance lease obligations was $22.4 million in the fourth quarter, compared to $17.7 million in the prior year 

quarter. The increase was mainly due to the higher average debt related to acquisitions and to a lesser extent, the higher average effective interest 

rates partially offset by a realized gain on foreign currency forward contracts related to hedging the Canadian dollar funds raised that were used to 

fund the NGL acquisition.

Transaction and Other Costs

For the fourth quarter, Superior incurred $7.5 million in transaction and other costs compared to $4.7 million in the prior year quarter. The increase 

is primarily related to transaction costs associated with NGL and the tuck-in acquisitions.

28  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Quarterly Financial and Operating Information 

GAAP Measures

(millions of dollars, except per share amounts) 

Q4 2018

Q3 2018

Q2 2018

Q1 2018

Q4 2017

Q3 2017

Q2 2017

Q1 2017

Revenue

Gross profit

Net earnings (loss)

Per share, basic

Per share, diluted

Net working capital(1)

887.0

319.5

(48.3)

481.7

169.7

(39.8)

483.1

159.7

874.9

289.2

9.1(2)

45.0(2)

768.9

238.1

45.3

465.5

133.6

(124.8)

474.9

138.0

(1.6)

675.7

225.7

53.2

$  (0.28)     (0.23)   0.06(2)

  0.32(2)   0.32     (0.87)     (0.01)   0.37

$  (0.28)     (0.23)   0.06(2)

  0.32(2)   0.32     (0.87)     (0.01)   0.34

97.3

(10.6)

(5.1)

144.0

115.7

85.3

107.4

133.6

(1)	 Net	working	capital	as	at	the	quarter-end	is	comprised	of	trade	and	other	receivables,	prepaid	expenses	and	inventories,	less	trade	and	other	payables,	deferred	revenue,	

and	dividends	and	interest	payable.

(2)	 Restated	Q1	and	Q2	2018	net	earnings	and	per	share	calculations	to	reflect	the	increased	amortization	partially	offset	by	a	reduction	in	deferred	taxes	as	a	result	of	

finalizing	the	Canwest	purchase	price	allocation.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures(1)

(millions of dollars, except per share amounts) 

AOCF before transaction and other costs

Q4 2018

132.7

Q3 2018

Q2 2018

Q1 2018

Q4 2017

Q3 2017

Q2 2017

Q1 2017

Per share, basic

Per share, diluted

AOCF

Per share, basic

Per share, diluted

$  0.76

  0.01   0.21

$  0.76

  0.01   0.21

125.2

(13.4)

20.3

$  0.72

   (0.08)   0.14

$  0.72

   (0.08)   0.14

2.2

29.3

138.1

  0.97

  0.97

130.7

  0.91

  0.91

98.7

15.0

27.5

109.3

  0.69   0.11   0.19   0.77

  0.69   0.11   0.19   0.77

94.0

(4.5)

20.1

107.8

  0.66    (0.03)   0.14   0.75

  0.66    (0.03)   0.14   0.75

(1)	 Net	AOCF	before	transaction	and	other	costs,	AOCF	and	the	related	per	share	amounts,	are	Non-GAAP	financial	measures.

Fluctuations in Superior’s individual quarterly results is subject to seasonality. Sales typically peak in the first quarter when approximately one-third 

of annual propane and other refined fuels sales volumes and gross profits are generated due to the demand of heating from end-use customers. 

They then decline through the second and third quarters, rising seasonally again in the fourth quarter with heating demand. In addition, during 

2017 Superior acquired Canwest, Pomerleau, Yankee, IDI and Earhart and in 2018 acquired NGL, Hi-Grade, Blue Flame, Porco, UPE and Musco, and 

sold the refined fuel assets. Each transaction may impact quarterly results. For more information on these acquisitions and divestments see Note 5 

in the 2017 annual audited consolidated financial statements and Note 3 in 2018 annual audited consolidated financial statements.

Volumes(1)(2)

Canadian propane sales volumes 
(millions of litres)

U.S. propane sales volumes  
(millions of litres)

Chemical sales volumes  
(thousands of MT)

Q4 2018

Q3 2018

Q2 2018

Q1 2018

Q4 2017

Q3 2017

Q2 2017

Q1 2017

765

391

202

340

161

380

157

212

208

730

396

213

641

293

283

478

369

273

298

397

212

217

210

212

Canadian Propane Sales by End-Use Application are as Follows(1)(2):

(millions of litres) 

Q4 2018

Q3 2018

Q2 2018

Q1 2018

Q4 2017

Q3 2017

Q2 2017

Q1 2017

Residential

Commercial

Oilfield

Industrial

Motor Fuels

Wholesale

Other

Total

59

105

59

60

44

385

53

765

20

45

19

78

45

121

12

340

29

58

47

55

47

127

17

380

75

137

79

70

43

274

52

730

62

108

69

59

46

240

57

641

16

34

9

49

39

132

14

293

20

44

9

48

40

109

13

283

53

103

14

43

35

197

33

478

(1)	 Canwest	volumes	have	been	included	commencing	in	Q4	2017.

(2)	 Comparative	figures	have	been	reclassified	to	reflect	the	current	period	presentation	of	end	use.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  29

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. Propane Sales by End-Use Application are as Follows:

(millions of litres) 

Residential

Commercial

Wholesale

Total

Q4 2018

Q3 2018

Q2 2018

Q1 2018

Q4 2017

Q3 2017

Q2 2017

Q1 2017

279

102

10

391

78

75

8

161

39

76

42

157

135

106

155

396

86

103

180

369

17

80

176

273

32

82

184

298

115

94

188

397

Specialty Chemicals Sales Volumes by Product are as Follows:

(thousands of MT) 

Sodium chlorate

Chlor-alkali

Chlorite

Total

Q4 2018

Q3 2018

Q2 2018

Q1 2018

Q4 2017

Q3 2017

Q2 2017

Q1 2017

117

84

1

202

121

88

3

212

115

91

2

208

121

90

2

213

127

83

2

212

128

87

2

217

119

88

3

210

128

83

1

212

Income from Canwest 

As of March 1, 2017 and up to the acquisition closing date of September 27, 2017, Superior was entitled to the benefit of the net profits of Canwest. 

As a result, Superior recorded net income of $1.2 million, $10.7 million of depreciation and amortization and $11.9 million in consolidated Adjusted 

EBITDA in 2017. On September 27, 2017, Superior received regulatory approval from the Competition Bureau and closed the acquisition of Canwest 

subject to certain conditions. 

The results of Canwest subsequent to September 27, 2017 are included in the results of the Energy Distribution segment. Below is a summary of 

March– 
Sept. 27

Sept. 27– 
Dec. 31

94.7

(46.3)

48.4

(36.5)

11.9

(10.7)

1.2

199.2

77.1

(46.4)

30.7

(13.6)

17.1

(1.2)

15.9

2017

171.8

(92.7)

79.1

(50.1)

29.0

(11.9)

17.1

140.0

339.2

Canwest’s financial results and volumes in 2017:

(millions of dollars)

Revenue

Cost of sales

Gross profit
Selling, distribution and administrative costs  
(excluding depreciation and amortization

EBITDA from operations

GAAP measures:

Depreciation and amortization

Net earnings (loss)

Volumes (millions of litres)

(1)	 Q1	includes	activity	from	March	1–31,	2017.

(2)	 Q3	includes	activity	from	July	1	–	September	27,	2017.

Q1(1)

25.7

(13.2)

12.5

(6.3)

6.2

(1.8)

4.4

52.6

Q2

34.6

(16.0)

18.6

(15.8)

2.8

(4.5)

(1.7)

74.2

Q3(2)

34.4

(17.1)

17.3

(14.4)

2.9

(4.4)

(1.5)

72.4

30  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Reconciliation of Net Earnings Before Income Taxes to Adjusted EBITDA

(millions of dollars)  
For the three months ended December 31, 2018

Energy 
Distribution

Specialty 
Chemicals

Net earnings (loss) before income taxes
Add:  Depreciation and amortization included in selling, distribution  

and administrative costs
Depreciation included in cost of sales

Gain (loss) on disposal of assets

Finance expense

Unrealized gain on derivative financial instruments

Transaction, restructuring and other costs

Adjusted EBITDA

29.1

52.6

—

17.2

2.0

23.4

4.7

129.0

15.9

0.3

15.8

0.2

1.1

—

—

33.3

(millions of dollars)  
For the three months ended December 31, 2017

Energy 
Distribution

Specialty 
Chemicals

Net earnings (loss) before income taxes
Add:  Depreciation and amortization included in selling, distribution  

and administrative costs
Depreciation included in cost of sales

Gain (loss) on disposal of assets

Finance expense

Unrealized (gains) losses on derivative financial instruments

Transaction, restructuring and other costs

Adjusted EBITDA

65.1

14.8

—

(0.9)

0.9

(1.6)

3.0

81.3

20.5

—

14.2

0.5

0.3

—

—

35.5

Reconciliation of Net Earnings Before Income Taxes to Adjusted EBITDA 

(millions of dollars)  
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2018

Energy 
Distribution

Specialty 
Chemicals

Net earnings (loss) before income taxes
Add:  Depreciation and amortization included in selling, distribution  

and administrative costs
Depreciation included in cost of sales

Gain (loss) on disposal of assets and other

Finance expense

Unrealized losses on derivative financial instruments

Transaction, restructuring and other costs

73.4

144.3

—

(2.4)

4.7

27.8

17.4

80.4

1.1

53.6

0.2

2.3

—

—

Corporate

(92.6)

—

—

—

19.3

61.2

2.8

(9.3)

Corporate

(28.3)

0.4

—

—

16.5

1.8

1.9

(7.7)

Corporate

(188.1)

0.2

—

—

78.8

58.5

22.1

Total

(47.6)

52.9

15.8

17.4

22.4

84.6

7.5

153.0

Total

57.3

15.2

14.2

(0.4)

17.7

0.2

4.9

109.1

Total

(34.3)

145.6

53.6

(2.2)

85.8

86.3

39.5

Adjusted EBITDA

265.2

137.6

(28.5)

374.3

(millions of dollars)  
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2017

Energy 
Distribution

Specialty 
Chemicals

Net earnings (loss) before income taxes
Add:  Depreciation and amortization included in selling, distribution  

and administrative costs
Depreciation included in cost of sales

Income from Canwest

Canwest depreciation, amortization and other

Gain (loss) on disposal of assets

Finance expense

Unrealized gain on derivative financial instruments

Transaction, restructuring and other costs

Adjusted EBITDA

108.6

59.7

—

(11.9)

10.7

(1.8)

3.5

(5.0)

16.6

180.4

72.9

—

52.3

—

0.5

0.7

—

—

126.4

Corporate

(65.7)

0.9

—

11.9

—

0.3

49.6

(22.7)

16.5

(9.2)

Total

115.8

60.6

52.3

—

10.7

(1.0)

53.8

(27.7)

33.1

297.6

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  31

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Risk Factors to Superior

The risks factors and uncertainties detailed below are a summary of Superior’s assessment of its material risk factors as detailed in Superior’s 2017 

Annual Information Form (“AIF”) under “Risks associated with our business” which is filed on the Canadian Securities Administrators’ website,  

www.sedar.com, and on Superior’s website, www.superiorplus.com. The AIF describes some of the most material risks to Superior’s business by 

type of risk: financial; strategic; operational; and legal.

General risks to Superior are as follows:

Cash Dividends to Shareholders are Dependent on the Performance of Superior LP

Superior depends entirely on the operations and assets of Superior LP. Superior’s ability to make dividend payments to its shareholders depends 

on Superior LP’s ability to make distributions on its outstanding limited partnership units, as well as on the operations and business of Superior LP.

There is no assurance regarding the amount of cash to be distributed by Superior LP or generated by Superior LP and, therefore, there is no 

assurance regarding funds available for dividends to shareholders. The amount distributed in respect of the limited partnership units will depend 

on a variety of factors including, without limitation, the performance of Superior LP’s operating businesses, the effect of acquisitions or dispositions 

on Superior LP, and other factors that may be beyond the control of Superior LP or Superior. In the event significant sustaining capital expenditures 

are required by Superior LP or the profitability of Superior LP declines, there would be a decrease in the amount of cash available for dividends to 

shareholders and such decrease could be material. 

Superior’s dividend policy and the distribution policy of Superior LP are subject to change at the discretion of the Board of Directors of Superior 

or the Board of Directors of Superior General Partner Inc., the general partner of Superior LP, as applicable. Superior’s dividend policy and the 

distribution policy of Superior LP are also limited by contractual agreements including agreements with lenders to Superior and its affiliates and by 

restrictions under corporate law.

Additional Shares

In the event the Board of Directors of Superior decides to issue additional common shares, preferred shares or securities convertible into common 

shares, existing shareholders may suffer significant dilution.

Access to Capital

The credit facilities and U.S. notes of Superior LP contain covenants that require Superior LP to meet certain financial tests and that restrict, among 

other things, the ability of Superior LP to incur additional debt, dispose of assets or pay dividends/distributions in certain circumstances. These 

restrictions may preclude Superior LP from returning capital or making distributions on the limited partnership units.

The payout by Superior LP of substantially all of its available cash flow means that capital expenditures to fund growth opportunities can only be 

made in the event that other sources of financing are available. Lack of access to such additional financing could limit the future growth of the 

business of Superior LP and, over time, have a material adverse effect on the amount of cash available for dividends to shareholders.

To the extent, that external sources of capital, including public and private markets, become limited or unavailable, Superior’s and Superior LP’s 

ability to make the necessary capital investments to maintain or expand the current business and to make necessary principal payments and 

debenture redemptions under its term credit facilities may be impaired.

Interest Rates

Superior maintains substantial floating interest rate exposure through a combination of floating interest rate borrowing and uses derivative 

instruments at times, to mitigate this risk. Demand for a significant portion of Energy Distribution’s sales and substantially all of Specialty Chemicals’ 

sales are affected by general economic trends. Generally speaking, when the economy is strong, interest rates increase, as does demand from 

Superior’s customers, thereby increasing Superior’s sales and its ability to pay higher interest costs. The opposite is also true. In this way, there is a 

common relationship among economic activity levels, interest rates and Superior’s ability to pay higher or lower rates. Increased interest rates will, 

however, affect Superior’s borrowing costs, which will have an adverse effect.

32  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis 

Foreign Exchange Risk

A portion of Superior’s net cash flow is denominated in U.S. dollars. Accordingly, fluctuations in the Canadian/U.S. dollar exchange rate can impact 

profitability. Superior attempts to mitigate this risk with derivative financial instruments.

Changes in Legislation and Expected Tax Profile

There can be no assurance that income tax laws in the numerous jurisdictions in which Superior operates will not be changed, interpreted 

or administered in a manner which adversely affects Superior and its shareholders. In addition, there can be no assurance that the CRA (or a 

provincial tax agency), the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (or a state or local tax agency), the Chilean Internal Revenue Service or the Luxembourg Tax 

Authorities (collectively, the “tax agencies”) will agree with how Superior calculates its income for tax purposes or that these various tax agencies 

referenced herein will not change their administrative practices to the detriment of Superior or its shareholders.

Acquisitions and Divestitures

Superior may not be able to find or buy appropriate acquisition targets on economically acceptable terms. Superior’s acquisition agreements will 

contain certain representations, warranties and indemnities from the respective vendors subject to certain applicable limitations and thresholds 

and Superior will conduct due diligence prior to completion of such acquisitions. If, however such representations and warranties are inaccurate or 

limited in applicability or if any liabilities that are discovered exceed such limits or are not covered by the representations, warranties or indemnities, 

or the applicable vendors default in their obligations or if certain liabilities are not identified in such agreements, Superior could become liable for 

any such liabilities which may have an adverse effect on Superior. In addition, there may be liabilities or risks that were not discovered in such due 

diligence investigations which could have an adverse effect on Superior.

Acquiring complementary businesses is often required to optimally execute Superior’s business strategy. Distribution systems, technologies, key 

personnel or businesses of companies Superior acquires may not be effectively assimilated into its business, or its alliances may not be successful. 

There is also no assurance regarding the completion of a planned acquisition as Superior may be unable to obtain shareholder approval for a 

planned acquisition or Superior may be unable to obtain government and regulatory approvals required for a planned acquisition, or required 

government and/or regulatory approvals may result in delays. There may be penalties associated with not completing a planned acquisition. 

Superior may not be able to successfully complete certain divestitures on satisfactory terms, if at all. Divestitures may reduce Superior’s total 

revenue and net earnings by more than the sales price. The terms and conditions, representations, warranties and indemnities, if any, associated 

with divestiture activity may hold future risks.

Canwest and NGL Acquisitions

A variety of factors may adversely affect Superior’s ability to achieve the anticipated benefits of these acquisitions. A failure to realize the anticipated 

benefits from the acquisitions, including but not limited to, the anticipated synergies associated with the acquisitions and included in the 

assumptions relating to expected accretion, could have a material adverse effect on Superior’s business, financial condition, operations, assets or 

future prospects. 

Superior will compete with other potential employers for employees, and it may not be successful in keeping the services of the executives 

and other employees that it needs to realize the anticipated benefits of the acquisition. Superior’s failure to retain key personnel as part of the 

management team of Canwest and NGL in the period following the acquisition could have a material adverse effect on the business and operations 

of Superior. 

Integrating NGL’s operations with Superior’s existing business will be a complex, time consuming and costly process. Failure to successfully integrate 

NGL and its operations in a timely manner may have a material adverse effect on Superior’s business, results of operations, cash flows and 

financial position. The difficulties of integrating NGL include, but are not limited to, coordinating geographically disparate organizations, systems 

and facilities, adapting to additional regulatory and other legal requirements, integrating corporate, technological and administrative function and 

employment and compensation policies and practices, and diverting management’s attention from other business concerns.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  33

 
Information Technology and Cyber Security

Superior utilizes a number of information technology systems for the management of its business and the operation of its facilities. The reliability 

and security of these systems is critical. If the function of these systems is interrupted or fails and cannot be restored quickly, or if the technologies 

are no longer supported, Superior’s ability to operate its facilities and conduct its business could be compromised. Superior has continued to 

mature its approach to technology planning. Superior continually assesses and monitors its cyber security risk. In an effort to mitigate such risks, 

Superior has employed a fully managed third party cyber security service that deploys industry leading technology, conducted comprehensive 

employee training and utilizes monitoring software to protect its systems.

Although the technology systems Superior utilizes are intended to be secure and Superior has employed various methods to mitigate cyber 

risks, there is still a risk that an unauthorized third party could access the systems. Such a security breach could lead to a number of adverse 

consequences, including but not limited to, the unavailability, disruption or loss of key function within Superior’s control systems and the 

unauthorized disclosure, corruption or loss of sensitive company, customer or personal information. Superior attempts to prevent such breaches 

through the implementation of various technology security measures, segregation of control systems from its general business network, engaging 

skilled consultants and employees to manage Superior’s technology applications, conducting periodic audits and adopting policies and procedures 

as appropriate.

To date, Superior has not been subject to a cyber-security breach that has resulted in a material impact on its business or operations; there is 

no guarantee, however, that the measures it takes to protect its business systems and operational control systems will be effective in protecting 

against a breach in the future.

Risks to Superior’s Segments

Risks associated with the Energy Distribution business are set out below. 

Canadian Propane Distribution and U.S. Propane Distribution

Competition

Propane is sold in competition with other energy sources such as fuel oil, electricity and natural gas, some of which are less costly on an energy-

equivalent basis. While propane is usually more cost-effective than electricity, electricity is a major competitor in most areas. Fuel oil is also used as 

a residential, commercial and industrial source of heat and, in general, is less costly on an equivalent-energy basis, although operating efficiencies, 

environmental and air quality factors help make propane competitive with fuel oil. Except for certain industrial and commercial applications, 

propane is generally not competitive with natural gas in areas with natural gas service. Other alternative energy sources such as compressed 

natural gas, methanol and ethanol are available or could be further developed and could have an impact on the future of the propane industry 

in general and Canadian propane distribution in particular. The trend towards increased conservation measures and technological advances in 

energy efficiency may have a detrimental effect on propane demand and Canadian propane Distribution’s sales. Increases in the cost of propane 

encourage customers to reduce fuel consumption and to invest in more energy efficient equipment, reducing demand. Propane commodity prices 

are affected by crude oil and natural gas commodity prices. 

Automotive propane demand depends on propane pricing, the market’s acceptance of propane conversion options and the availability of 

infrastructure. Superior Propane has strategic partnerships with companies focused on after-market conversion technologies. This segment has 

been impacted by the development of more fuel efficient and complicated engines which increase the cost of converting engines to propane and 

reduce the savings per kilometre driven.

Competition in the U.S. propane distribution business’ markets generally occurs on a local basis between large, full-service, national marketers and 

smaller, independent local marketers. Marketers primarily compete based on price and service and tend to operate in close proximity to customers, 

typically within a 60 kilometer marketing radius from a central depot, in order to minimize delivery costs and provide prompt service. 

Volume Variability, Weather Conditions and Economic Demand

Weather, general economic conditions and the volatility in the cost of propane affect propane market volumes. Weather influences the demand for 

propane, primarily for home and facility heating uses and also for agricultural applications, such as crop drying. 

Harsh weather can create conditions that exacerbate demand for propane, impede the transportation and delivery of propane, or restrict the ability 

of Superior to obtain propane from its suppliers. Such conditions may also increase Superior’s operating costs and may reduce customers demand 

for propane, any of which may have an adverse effect on Superior. Conversely, low prices tend to make customers less price sensitive and less 

focused on their consumption volume.

34  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Spikes in demand caused by weather or other factors can stress the supply chain and hamper Superior’s ability to obtain additional quantities of 

propane. Transportation providers (railways and trucking companies) have limited ability to provide resources in times of extreme peak demand. 

Changes in propane supply costs are normally passed through to customers, but timing lags (between when Superior purchases the propane and 

when the customer purchases the propane) may result in positive or negative gross margin fluctuations.

For U.S. propane distribution, demand from end-use heating applications is predictable. Weather and general economic conditions, however, affect 

distillates and propane market volumes. Weather influences the immediate demand, primarily for heating, while longer-term demand declines 

due to economic conditions as customer’s trend towards conservation and supplement heating with alternative sources such as electricity and to a 

lesser extent, wood pellets and solar energy.

Demand, Supply and Pricing

Superior offers its customers various fixed-price propane and heating oil programs. In order to mitigate the price risk from offering these services, 

Superior uses its physical inventory position, supplemented by forward commodity transactions with various third parties having terms and 

volumes substantially the same as its customer’s contracts. In periods of high propane price volatility, the fixed-price programs create exposure 

to over or under-supply positions as the demand from customers may significantly exceed or fall short of supply procured. In addition, if propane 

prices decline significantly subsequent to customers signing up for a fixed-price program, there is a risk that customers will default on their 

commitments.

Health, Safety and Environment

Superior’s operations are subject to the risks associated with handling, storing and transporting propane in bulk. To mitigate risks, Superior has 

established a comprehensive environmental, health and safety protection program. It consists of an environmental policy, codes of practice, 

periodic self-audits, employee training, quarterly and annual reporting and emergency prevention and response.

The U.S. propane distribution business, through a centralized safety and environment management system, ensures that safety practices and 

regulatory compliance are an important part of its business. The storage and delivery of refined fuels pose the risk of spills which could adversely 

affect the soil and water of storage facilities and customer properties.

Superior’s fuel distribution businesses are based and operate in Canada and the United States and, as a result, such operations could be affected 

by changes to laws, rules or policies which could either be more favourable to competing energy sources or increase compliance costs or otherwise 

negatively affect the operations of Energy Distribution in comparison with such competing energy sources. Any such changes could have an 

adverse effect on the operations of Energy Distribution.

Employee and Labour Relations

Approximately 19% of Superior’s Canadian propane distribution business employees and 3% of U.S. propane distribution business employees are 

unionized. Collective bargaining agreements are renegotiated in the normal course of business. While labour disruptions are not expected, there is 

always risk associated with the renegotiation process that could have an adverse impact on Superior.

Specialty Chemicals

Risks associated with the Specialty Chemicals business are as follows:

Competition

Specialty Chemicals competes with sodium chlorate, chlor-alkali and potassium producers on a worldwide basis. Key competitive factors include 

price, product quality, logistics capability, reliability of supply, technical capability and service. The end-use markets for products are correlated 

to the general economic environment and the competitiveness of customers, all of which are outside of the segment’s control, along with market 

pricing for pulp.

Global Economic Conditions

Specialty Chemicals’ chlorate business is impacted by global economic conditions and, in particular, the strength of the Chinese economy. To 

the extent international demand for bleached pulp from countries such as China decreases, the price for bleached pulp is negatively impacted. 

Reduced pricing tends to put pressure on North American pulp producers which may lead to mill closures and reduced overall demand for sodium 

chlorate.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  35

 
From time to time certain pulp mills in North America have conducted trials or announced considering converting to unbleached pulp. To the extent 

that such conversions are completed, it may have a negative effect on demand for sodium chlorate which would have a negative impact on our 

Specialty Chemicals business.

Supply Arrangements

Specialty Chemicals has long-term electricity contracts or electricity contracts that renew automatically with power producers in each of the 

jurisdictions where its plants are located. There is no assurance that Specialty Chemicals will be able to secure adequate supplies of electricity at 

reasonable prices or on acceptable terms.

Potassium chloride (KCl) is a major raw material used in the production of potassium hydroxide at the Port Edwards, Wisconsin facility. Substantially 

all of Specialty Chemicals’ KCl is received from Nutrien Inc. (formerly Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan). Specialty Chemicals has limited ability to 

source KCl from additional suppliers.

Foreign Currency Exchange

Specialty Chemicals is exposed to fluctuations in the U.S. dollar and the euro versus the Canadian dollar. Specialty Chemicals manages its exposure 

to fluctuations between foreign currencies and Canadian dollar by entering into hedge contracts with external third parties and internally with other 

Superior businesses.

Health, Safety and Environment

Specialty Chemicals’ operations involve the handling, production, transportation, treatment and disposal of materials that are classified as 

hazardous and are regulated by environmental, health and safety laws, regulations and requirements. There is potential for the release of highly 

toxic and lethal substances, including chlorine from a facility or transportation equipment. Equipment failure could result in damage to facilities, 

death or injury and liabilities to third parties. If at any time the appropriate regulatory authorities deem any of the segment’s facilities unsafe, they 

may order that such facilities be shut down.

Regulatory 

Specialty Chemicals’ operations and activities in various jurisdictions require regulatory approval for the handling, production, transportation and 

disposal of chemical products and waste substances. The failure to obtain or comply fully with such applicable regulatory approval may materially 

adversely affect Specialty Chemicals.

Manufacturing and Production

Specialty Chemicals’ production facilities maintain complex process and electrical equipment. The facilities have existed for many years and 

undergone upgrades and improvements. Routine maintenance is regularly completed to ensure equipment is operated within appropriate 

engineering and technical requirements. Notwithstanding Specialty Chemicals’ operating standards and history of limited downtime, breakdown of 

electrical transformer or rectifier equipment would temporarily reduce production at the affected facility. Although the segment has insurance to 

mitigate substantial loss due to equipment outage, Specialty Chemicals’ reputation and its ability to meet customer requirements could be harmed 

by a major electrical equipment failure.

Employee and Labour Relations

Approximately 26% of Specialty Chemicals’ employees are unionized. Collective bargaining agreements are renegotiated in the normal course of 

business. While labour disruptions are not expected, there is always risk associated with the negotiation process that could have an adverse impact 

on Superior.

36  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Management’s Responsibility for Financial Statements

The accompanying consolidated financial statements of Superior Plus Corp. (Superior) are the responsibility of management and have been 

approved by the Board of Directors.

The consolidated financial statements were prepared by management in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards and include 

certain estimates that are based on management’s best judgments. Actual results may differ from these estimates and judgments. Management 

has ensured that the consolidated financial statements are presented fairly in all material respects.

Management has developed and maintains a system of internal controls to provide reasonable assurance that Superior’s assets are safeguarded, 

transactions are accurately recorded, and the financial statements report Superior’s operating and financial results in a timely manner. Financial 

information presented elsewhere in this annual report has been prepared on a basis consistent with that in the consolidated financial statements.

The Board of Directors of Superior is responsible for reviewing and approving the consolidated financial statements and, primarily through its 

Audit Committee, ensures that management fulfills its responsibilities for financial reporting. The Audit Committee meets with management and 

Superior’s external auditor, to discuss internal controls over the financial reporting process, auditing matters and financial reporting issues, to 

satisfy itself that each party is properly discharging its responsibilities and to review the consolidated financial statements. The Audit Committee 

reports its findings to the Board of Directors for approval of the consolidated financial statements for issuance to the shareholders. The Audit 

Committee also considers, for review by the Board of Directors and approval by the shareholders, the engagement or re-appointment of the 

external auditor.

The consolidated financial statements have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, who were appointed at Superior’s last annual meeting.

/s/ Luc Desjardins 

Luc Desjardins 

/s/ Beth Summers

Beth Summers

President and Chief Executive Officer 

Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer  

Superior Plus Corp. 

Superior Plus Corp.

Toronto, Ontario  

February 14, 2019

  Management’s Responsibility for Financial Statements Superior Plus Corp.  37

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Independent Auditor’s Report

To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Superior Plus Corp. 

Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Superior Plus Corp. (the “Company”), which comprise the consolidated 

balance sheet as at December 31, 2018, the consolidated statement of changes in equity, consolidated statement of net loss and total 

comprehensive earnings (loss), and consolidated statement of cash flows for the year then ended, and the notes to the consolidated financial 

statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies.

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of 

the Company as at December 31, 2018, and its consolidated financial performance and its consolidated cash flows for the year then ended in 

accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

Basis for Opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Our responsibilities under those standards are further 

described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements section of our report. We are independent of the 

Company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the consolidated financial statements in Canada, and we 

have fulfilled our ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient 

and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Other information

Management is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises:

 » Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 » The information, other than the consolidated financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon, in the Annual Report

Our opinion on the consolidated financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance 

conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit of the consolidated financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information, and in doing so, consider 

whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the consolidated financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or 

otherwise appears to be materially misstated.

We obtained Management’s Discussion & Analysis prior to the date of this auditor’s report. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude 

that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.

The Annual Report is expected to be made available to us after the date of the auditor’s report. If based on the work we will perform on this other 

information, we conclude there is a material misstatement of other information, we are required to report that fact to those charged  

with governance.

38  Superior Plus Corp. Independent Auditor’s Report

Responsibilities of Management and Those Charged with Governance  
for the Consolidated Financial Statements

Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements in accordance with IFRSs, and for 

such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of consolidated financial statements that are free from 

material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, 

disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to 

liquidate the Company or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.

Those charged with governance are responsible for overseeing the Company’s financial reporting process.

Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements as a whole are free from material 

misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of 

assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards will always detect a 

material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, 

they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these consolidated financial statements.

As part of an audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards, we exercise professional judgment and maintain 

professional skepticism throughout the audit. We also:

 »

Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, design and 

perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our 

opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may 

involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.

 » Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the 

circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control.

 » Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made  

by management.

 » Conclude on the appropriateness of management’s use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, 
whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Company’s ability to continue 

as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report to the related 

disclosures in the consolidated financial statements or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based 

on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Company to cease 

to continue as a going concern.

 » Evaluate the overall presentation, structure, and content of the consolidated financial statements, including the disclosures, and whether the 

consolidated financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.

 » Obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities or business activities within the Company to 

express an opinion on the consolidated financial statements. We are responsible for the direction, supervision and performance of the audit. 

We remain solely responsible for our audit opinion.

We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant 

audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.

We also provide those charged with governance with a statement that we have complied with relevant ethical requirements regarding 

independence, and to communicate with them all relationships and other matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence, 

and where applicable, related safeguards.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  39

 
Comparative information

The consolidated financial statements of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2017 (prior to the restatement of the comparative 

information described in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements) were audited by another auditor who expressed an unmodified opinion 

on those consolidated financial statements on February 14, 2018.

As part of our audit of the consolidated financial statements of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2018, we also audited the 

adjustments described in Note 3 that were applied to restate the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2017. In our 

opinion, such adjustments are appropriate and have been properly applied.

We were not engaged to audit, review, or apply any procedures to the consolidated financial statements of the Company for the year ended 

December 31, 2017 other than with respect to the adjustments and, accordingly, we do not express an opinion or any other form of assurance on 

the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2017 taken as a whole.

The engagement partner on the audit resulting in this independent auditor’s report is Tracy Brennan.

Chartered Professional Accountants 
Licensed Public Accountants 

Toronto, Canada 

February 14, 2019

40  Superior Plus Corp. Independent Auditor’s Report

 
 
Consolidated Balance Sheets 

(millions of Canadian dollars)

Assets

Current Assets

Cash

Trade and other receivables

Prepaid expenses

Inventories

Other current financial assets

Assets held for sale

Total Current Assets

Non-Current Assets

Property, plant and equipment

Intangible assets

Goodwill

Notes, finance lease receivables and other investments

Employee future benefits

Deferred tax assets

Other non-current financial assets

Total Non-Current Assets

Total Assets

Liabilities and Equity

Current Liabilities

Trade and other payables

Contract liabilities

Borrowing

Dividends and interest payable

Other current financial liabilities

Total Current Liabilities

Non-Current Liabilities

Borrowing

Other liabilities

Provisions

Employee future benefits

Deferred tax liabilities

Other non-current financial liabilities

Total Non-Current Liabilities

Total Liabilities

Equity

Capital

Deficit

Accumulated other comprehensive income

Total Equity

Total Liabilities and Equity

See accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. 

As at December 31

Note

2018

2017

Restated
(see Note 3)

4

5

6

17

3

3, 7

3, 8

3, 9

16

18

17

11

12

14

17

14

13

10

16

3, 18

17

20

19

19

23.9

383.2

49.3

146.8

18.2

—

621.4

1,527.8

412.1

1,021.9

8.0

8.7

48.7

1.0

3,028.2

3,649.6

447.6

23.9

28.8

10.5

45.9

556.7

31.8

318.5

29.4

137.0

30.0

16.7

563.4

1,120.8

238.8

352.3

2.7

8.1

40.5

10.1

1,773.3

2,336.7

350.7

9.9

28.7

8.6

21.8

419.7

1,825.0

1,024.1

12.7

103.7

19.9

24.7

18.0

2,004.0

2,560.7

2,339.9

(1,422.9)

171.9

1,088.9

3,649.6

4.0

69.9

21.0

17.5

4.5

1,141.0

1,560.7

1,953.5

(1,266.9)

89.4

776.0

2,336.7

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  41

 
 
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

(millions of Canadian dollars)

As at January 1, 2018

Net loss

Unrealized foreign currency gain on translation  
 of foreign operations

Actuarial defined-benefit gain

Income tax expense on other  
 comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income

Change in accounting policy (Note 2)

Issuance of common shares, net of costs

Dividends and dividend equivalent declared  
 to shareholders

As at December 31, 2018

As at January 1, 2017

Net loss

Unrealized foreign currency loss on translation  
 of foreign operations

Actuarial defined-benefit gain

Income tax expense on other  
 comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income

Dividends declared to shareholders

As at December 31, 2017

See accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Share
Capital
(Note 19)

1,952.3

—

—

—

—

—

—

386.4

—

2,338.7

1,952.3

—

—

—

—

—

—

Contributed
Surplus

1.2

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

1.2

1.2

—

—

—

—

—

—

Total
Capital

1,953.5

—

—

—

—

—

—

386.4

Deficit

(1,266.9)

(34.0)

—

—

—

(34.0)

(7.6)

—

—

(114.4)

2,339.9

(1,422.9)

1,953.5

(1,136.2)

—

—

—

—

—

—

(27.9)

—

—

—

(27.9)

(102.8)

1,952.3

1.2

1,953.5

(1,266.9)

Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income

89.4

—

81.6

1.2

(0.3)

82.5

—

—

—

171.9

111.3

—

(24.7)

3.8

(1.0)

(21.9)

—

89.4

Total

776.0

(34.0)

81.6

1.2

(0.3)

48.5

(7.6)

386.4

(114.4)

1,088.9

928.6

(27.9)

(24.7)

3.8

(1.0)

(49.8)

(102.8)

776.0

42  Superior Plus Corp. Consolidated Financial Statements

Consolidated Statements of Net Loss  
and Total Comprehensive Earnings (Loss)

(millions of Canadian dollars except per share amounts)

Revenues

Cost of sales (includes products and services)

Gross profit

Expenses

Selling, distribution and administrative costs

Finance expense

Unrealized (loss) gain on derivative instruments

(Loss) earnings before income taxes

Income tax (expense) recovery

Net loss for the year

Other comprehensive income (loss)

Items that may be reclassified subsequently to net earnings 

  Unrealized foreign currency gain (loss) on translation of foreign operations

Items that will not be reclassified to net (loss) earnings

  Actuarial defined benefit gain

Income tax expense on other comprehensive income

  Other comprehensive income (loss) for the year

Other comprehensive income (loss) for the year

Net loss per share, basic and diluted

See accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. 

Years Ended December 31

Note

2018

2017

21, 23

21

21

21

17, 21

18

2,726.7

(1,788.6)

938.1

2,385.0

(1,649.6)

735.4

(800.3)

(85.8)

(86.3)

(972.4)

(34.3)

0.3

(34.0)

(593.5)

(53.8)

27.7

(619.6)

115.8

(143.7)

(27.9)

81.6

(24.7)

1.2

(0.3)

82.5

48.5

3.8

(1.0)

(21.9)

(49.8)

22

$  (0.22)

$  (0.20)

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  43

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Years Ended December 31

Note

2018

2017

7

7

8

17

18

25

3

28

3

14

14

14

(34.0)

98.3

53.6

47.2

(2.2)

86.3

85.8

(0.3)

(20.5)

314.2

(0.1)

(51.1)

263.0

(1,259.6)

(105.8)

22.7

91.9

(27.9)

51.0

52.3

9.6

(1.1)

(27.7)

53.8

143.7

(61.2)

192.5

30.5

(39.9)

183.1

(494.6)

(77.0)

7.6

—

(1,250.8)

(564.0)

2,527.3

(2,392.3)

381.4

458.5

—

362.5

—

(209.8)

(17.1)

(17.9)

(112.5)

980.1

(7.7)

31.8

(0.2)

23.9

1,645.1

(1,415.7)

—

—

400.0

(97.0)

—

(16.0)

(7.2)

(102.8)

406.4

25.5

5.0

1.3

31.8

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(millions of Canadian dollars)

Operating Activities
Net loss for the year

  Depreciation included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

  Depreciation included in cost of sales

  Amortization of intangible assets

  Gains on disposal of assets and other non-cash items

  Unrealized losses (gains) on derivative financial instruments

Finance expense recognized in net earnings

Income tax (recovery) expense recognized in net earnings

Changes in non-cash operating working capital

Net cash flows from operating activities before income tax and interest paid

Income taxes (paid) received

Interest paid

Cash flows from operating activities

Investing Activities
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired and assets sold

Purchase of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment

Proceeds on sale of assets

Cash flows from (used in) investing activities

Financing Activities
Proceeds of revolving term bank credits and other debt

Repayment of revolving term bank credits and other debt

Proceeds from share issuance, net of costs

Proceeds from 7% senior unsecured notes

Proceeds from 5.25% senior unsecured notes

Proceeds from 5.125% senior unsecured notes

Redemption of 6.0% convertible debentures

Redemption of 6.5% senior unsecured notes

Repayment of finance lease obligations

Debt issuance costs

Dividends paid to shareholders

Cash flows from financing activities

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of the year

Effect of translation of foreign currency-denominated cash

Cash and cash equivalents, end of the year

See accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. 

44  Superior Plus Corp. Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

(Tabular amounts in millions of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts. Tables labelled “2018” and “2017” are as at and for the year ended).

1. Organization

Superior Plus Corp. (Superior or the Company) is a diversified business corporation, incorporated under the Canada Business Corporations Act. 

The registered office is located at Suite 401, 200 Wellington Street West, Toronto, Ontario. Superior holds 99.9% of Superior Plus LP (Superior LP), 

a limited partnership formed between Superior General Partner Inc. (Superior GP) as general partner and Superior as limited partner. Superior 

owns 100% of the shares of Superior GP and Superior GP holds 0.1% of Superior LP. Superior does not conduct active business operations but 

rather distributes to shareholders a portion of the income it receives from Superior Plus LP in the form of partnership allocations, net of expenses. 

Superior’s investment in Superior Plus LP is financed by share capital. Superior is a publicly traded company with its common shares trading on the 

Toronto Stock Exchange under the exchange symbol SPB.

The consolidated financial statements of Superior as at December 31, 2018 and for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 were authorized 

for issuance by the Board of Directors on February 14, 2019.

Reportable Operating Segments

Superior currently operates two distinct reportable operating segments: Energy Distribution and Specialty Chemicals. Superior’s Energy Distribution 

operating segment provides distribution, wholesale procurement and related services in relation to propane, heating oil and other refined fuels 

under the following: Canadian propane division and U.S. propane division. Specialty Chemicals is a leading supplier of sodium chlorate and 

technology to the pulp and paper industry and a regional supplier of chlor-alkali products in the U.S. Midwest and Western Canada.

2. Basis of Presentation

(a) Preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements

The accompanying consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) using the 

accounting policies Superior adopted in its annual consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended December 31, 2018. The financial 

statements were prepared on a going-concern basis.

The consolidated financial statements were prepared on the historical cost basis, except for the revaluation of certain financial instruments and 

incorporate the accounts of Superior and its subsidiaries. Subsidiaries are all entities over which Superior has the power to govern the financial and 

operating policies, generally accompanying a shareholding of more than one-half of the voting rights. The results of subsidiaries are included in 

Superior’s statement of net earnings from date of acquisition, or in the case of disposals, up to the effective date of disposal.

All transactions and balances between Superior and Superior’s subsidiaries are eliminated upon consolidation. Superior’s subsidiaries are all wholly 

owned directly or indirectly by Superior Plus Corp.

(b) Reclassification of Comparative Figures and Restatement

During the third quarter, Superior finalized the purchase price allocation of the Canwest Propane acquisition. As disclosed in Note 3, Superior has 

restated the comparative year to record the impact of the final purchase allocation as if the accounting for the business combination had been 

completed at the acquisition date.

Other comparative figures may have changed to conform to the current presentation.

Changes in Accounting Policies

The Company applied IFRS 15 and IFRS 9 for the first time. The nature and effect of the changes as a result of adoption of these new accounting 

standards are described below.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  45

 
(i) 

IFRS 9 Financial Instruments

The Company adopted IFRS 9 Financial Instruments with a date of initial application of January 1, 2018. IFRS 9 introduces new requirements for the 

classification and measurement of financial assets. IFRS 9 requires all recognized financial assets to be measured at amortized cost or fair value 

in subsequent accounting periods following initial recognition. IFRS 9 also amends the requirements around hedge accounting, and introduces a 

single, forward-looking expected loss impairment model.

The Company has elected to apply the limited exemption in IFRS 9 relating to transition for classification and measurement and impairment, 

and accordingly has not restated comparative periods in the year of initial application. The adoption of IFRS 9 had no impact on the Company’s 

consolidated financial statements on the date of initial application. There was no change in the carrying amounts on the basis of allocation  

from original measurement categories under IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement to the new measurement categories 

under IFRS 9.

(ii) 

IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers

IFRS 15 supersedes IAS 11 Construction Contracts, IAS 18 Revenue and related interpretations and it applies to all revenue arising from contracts 

with customers, unless those contracts are in the scope of other standards. The new standards establishes a five-step model to account for revenue 

arising from contracts with customers. Under IFRS 15, revenue is recognized at an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity 

expects to be entitled in exchange for transferring goods or services to a customer. The standard requires entities to exercise judgment, taking 

into consideration all of the relevant facts and circumstances when applying each step of the model to contracts with customers. The standard also 

specifies the accounting for the incremental costs of obtaining a contract and the costs directly related to fulfilling a contract.

The Company adopted IFRS 15 using the modified retrospective method of adoption and applied the practical expedient in IFRS 15, under which 

the Company does not disclose the amount of consideration allocated to the remaining performance obligations or an explanation of when the 

Company expects to recognize that amount as revenue for all reporting periods presented before the date of the initial application being  

January 1, 2018.

The impact on the consolidated balance sheet and cumulative catch-up adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings as at January 1, 

2018 is as follows:

Assets

Trade and other receivables

Total Assets

Liabilities and Equity

Trade and other payables

Deferred tax liability

Contract liabilities

Total Liabilities

Equity

Deficit

Total Equity

Total Liabilities and Equity

Adjustments

$

(ii)

(ii)

(i)

(i)

(i)

(0.1)

(0.1)

(0.1)

(2.8)

10.4

7.5

(7.6)

(7.6)

(0.1)

There is no material impact on the consolidated statement of cash flows or on basic and diluted earnings per share. The details and quantitative 

impact of the changes in the above accounting policies are disclosed below:

(i)   Revenue from sale of propane 

Certain propane contracts also include use of storage tanks for a range of charges and promotional discounts. The selling price allocated to the 

use of storage tanks is based on the residual value after allocating the observable stand-alone selling price to the sale of propane. The adoption 

of this policy resulted in an increase to contract liabilities of $10.4 million and an offsetting adjustment to deficit as of January 1, 2018.

As a result of this adjustment, Superior’s deferred tax asset was increased by $2.8 million.

46  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 
(ii)   Transportation revenue 

Revenue from sale of specialty chemicals is recognized when control of the goods has transferred, and customer has full discretion over the 

goods. Sales where the Company arranges and charges for freight is considered a separate performance obligation. Consequently, the portion 

of revenue related to freight is recognized when the goods are delivered to their destination instead of when the product is shipped. The costs 

associated with this revenue will also be accrued and recognized at this time. The adoption of this policy resulted in a reduction of $0.1 million to 

trade and other receivable, and trade and other payables as at January 1, 2018.

Significant Accounting Policies

(a) Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash and highly liquid short-term investments which, on the date of acquisition, have a term to maturity of three 

months or less. For the purpose of the consolidated statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and short-term deposits, as 

defined above, net of outstanding bank overdrafts as they are considered an integral part of the Company’s cash management.

(b) Inventories

Energy Distribution

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Costs of inventories are determined either on a weighted average cost or first-in, 

first-out basis. Materials, supplies, and other inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realizable value, as appropriate. The net realizable 

value of inventory is based on estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less the estimated costs necessary to complete the sale.

Specialty Chemicals

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realizable value. The cost of chemical inventories is determined on a first-in, first-out basis. 

Stores and supply inventories are costed on a weighted average basis. The net realizable value of inventory is based on estimated selling price in 

the ordinary course of business less the estimated costs necessary to complete the sale. In the case of manufactured inventories, cost includes an 

appropriate share of production overhead based on normal operating capacity.

(c) Financial Instruments and Derivative Financial Instruments

Financial assets and financial liabilities, including derivatives, are recognized on the consolidated balance sheets when the Company becomes a 

party to the financial instrument or derivative contract.

Classification

The Company classifies its financial assets and financial liabilities in the following measurement categories; i) those to be measured subsequently  

at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL); ii) those to be measured subsequently at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI); and  

iii) those to be measured at amortized cost. The classification of financial assets depends on the business model for managing the financial assets 

and the contractual terms of the cash flows. Financial liabilities are classified as those to be measured at amortized cost unless they are designated 

as those to be measured subsequently at FVTPL (irrevocable election at the time of recognition). For assets and liabilities measured at fair value, 

gains and losses are either recorded in profit or loss, or other comprehensive income.

The Company reclassifies financial assets when and only when its business model for managing those assets changes. Financial liabilities are not 

reclassified.

For classification of the Company’s financial assets and financial liabilities, refer to Note 17.

Measurement

All financial instruments are required to be measured at fair value on initial recognition, plus, in the case of a financial asset or financial liability not 

at FVTPL, transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition or issuance of the financial asset or financial liability. Transaction costs of 

financial assets and financial liabilities carried at FVTPL are expensed in profit or loss. Financial assets with embedded derivatives are considered in 

their entirety when determining whether their cash flows are solely payment of principal and interest.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  47

 
Financial assets that are held within a business model whose objective is to collect the contractual cash flows, and that have contractual cash 

flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal outstanding are generally measured at amortized cost at the end 

of the subsequent accounting periods. All other financial assets including equity investments are measured at their fair values at the end 

of subsequent accounting periods, with any changes taken through the consolidated statements of net earnings and total comprehensive 

income (irrevocable election at the time of recognition with no recycling of gains or losses to net earnings). For financial liabilities measured 

subsequently at FVTPL, changes in fair value due to own credit risk are recorded in other comprehensive income.

Impairment

The Company recognizes expected credit losses for trade and other receivables based on the simplified approach under IFRS 9. The simplified 

approach to the recognition of expected losses does not require the Company to track the changes in credit risk; rather, the Company 

recognizes a loss allowance based on lifetime expected credit losses at each reporting date from the date of the trade receivable.

Evidence of impairment may include indications that a debtor or a group of debtors is experiencing significant financial difficulty, default or 

delinquency in interest or principal payments, the probability that they will enter bankruptcy or other financial reorganization and where 

observable data indicates that there is a measurable decrease in the estimated future cash flows, such as changes in arrears or economic 

conditions that correlate with defaults. Trade receivables are reviewed qualitatively on a case-by-case basis to determine whether they need to 

be written off.

Expected credit losses are measured as the difference in the present value of the contractual cash flows that are due to the Company under the 

contract, and the cash flows that the Company expects to receive. The Company assesses all information available, including past due status, 

credit ratings, the existence of third-party insurance, and forward-looking macro-economic factors in the measurement of the expected credit 

losses associated with its financial assets carried at amortized cost.

The Company measures expected credit loss by considering the risk of default over the contract period and incorporates forward-looking 

information into its measurement.

Derivative Financial Instruments

Superior enters into a variety of derivative and non-financial derivative instruments to manage its exposure to certain financial risks. Such 

instruments arise from contracts comprising natural gas financial swaps, electricity financial swaps, fixed-price electricity purchase, propane 

forward purchase and sale, foreign currency forwards, interest rate swaps, and equity hedges. For commodity contracts, if physical delivery is 

effected based on Superior’s expected procurement, sale or usage requirements, the requirements of the so-called “own use exemption” under 

IFRS 9 are met, which do not represent derivative financial instruments in terms of IFRS 9, but represent pending purchase and sale transactions, 

which are assessed for possible impending losses in accordance with the requirements of IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent 

Assets. If the requirements for the own use exemption are not met (for example, by transactions for short-term optimization), the contracts are 

recorded as derivatives in accordance with IFRS 9. Further details of derivative and non-financial derivative instruments are disclosed in Note 17.

Derivatives are initially recognized at fair value at the date a derivative contract is entered into and are measured subsequently at FVTPL. 

The resulting gain or loss is recognized in net earnings. Realized gains and losses on derivatives are recognized as a component of revenue, 

cost of sales or finance expense/revenue, the classification of which depends on the underlying nature of the economic exposure being 

managed. Derivatives embedded in other financial instruments or other host contracts are treated as separate derivatives when their risks and 

characteristics are not closely related to those of the host contracts and the host contracts are not measured at fair value with changes in fair 

value recognized in net earnings.

Superior does not formally designate and document economic hedges, in accordance with the requirements of applying hedge accounting 

under IFRS and, therefore, does not apply hedge accounting.

Classification as Debt or Equity

Debt and equity instruments are classified either as financial liabilities or as equity in accordance with the substance of the contractual 

arrangement.

Equity Instruments

An equity instrument is any contract that has a residual interest in the assets of an entity after deducting all of its liabilities. Equity instruments 

issued by Superior are recorded at the proceeds received, net of direct issuance costs.

Derecognition of Financial Liabilities

Superior derecognizes financial liabilities solely when Superior’s obligations are discharged, cancelled or expire.

48  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

Financial Guarantees at FVTPL

Financial guarantees are classified as FVTPL when the financial liability is designated as FVTPL upon initial recognition. Financial guarantees at FVTPL 

are stated at fair value with any resulting gain or loss recognized in net earnings. Fair value is determined in the manner described in Note 17.

(d) Property, Plant and Equipment

Cost

Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Major renewals and improvements 

which provide future economic benefits and can be reliably measured are capitalized, while repair and maintenance expenses are charged to 

operations as incurred. Property, plant and equipment in the course of construction are carried at cost less any recognized impairment losses. 

Cost includes directly attributable expenses, professional fees and, for qualifying assets, borrowing costs capitalized in accordance with Superior’s 

accounting policy. Depreciation of these assets, on the same basis as other property assets, commences when the assets are available for their 

intended use. Disposals are derecognized at carrying costs less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses, with any resulting gain or loss 

reflected in net earnings.

Borrowing Costs

Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of qualifying assets, which are assets that necessarily take 

substantial time to ready for their intended use or sale, are included in the cost of those assets, until such time as the assets are available for their 

intended use. All other borrowing costs are recognized in net earnings in the period in which they are incurred.

Depreciation

Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method, based on the estimated useful life. Land is not depreciated. Depreciation of property in 

the course of construction commences when the assets are available for their intended use. In the majority of cases, residual value is estimated to 

be insignificant. Depreciation by class of assets is as follows:

Buildings
Leasehold improvements
Energy Distribution tanks and cylinders
Energy Distribution truck tank bodies, chassis and other
Manufacturing equipment
Furniture and fixtures
Computer equipment

15 to 40 years
over the lease term up to10 years 
30 years
5 to 15 years
5 to 40 years
10 years
3 years

Useful life, residual values and depreciation methods are reviewed at the end of each annual reporting period, with the effect of any changes in 

estimate being accounted for on a prospective basis.

(e) Intangible Assets

Intangible assets are reported at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses. For intangible assets with a determinate 

life, amortization is charged on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives.

Intangible assets acquired in a business combination are identified and recognized separately from goodwill when they satisfy the recognition 

criteria. The initial cost of such intangible assets is their fair value at the acquisition date. Subsequent to initial recognition, intangible assets 

acquired in a business combination are reported at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, on the same basis as 

intangible assets acquired separately. Software costs are capitalized for new systems if there are significant enhancements to existing systems. In 

addition to the cost of software, the capitalized costs include cost of installation and consulting services related to the system implementation or 

enhancement.

Useful life, residual values and amortization methods are reviewed at least annually, with the effect of any changes in estimate being accounted for 

on a prospective basis.

Energy Distribution

As a result of Energy Distribution’s operating activities in Québec and California, Superior is required to purchase sufficient Compliance Instruments 

to offset its carbon footprint. Costs incurred by Energy Distribution to acquire Québec Cap and Trade Compliance Instruments are recorded as 

intangible assets and measured at cost. As the Compliance Instruments do not diminish over time, they are deemed intangible assets with an 

indefinite life and are not amortized. The assets are subject to impairment testing subsequent to initial recognition. The Compliance Instruments 

are classified as non-current and reclassified as current at the end of the compliance period. The assets are settled against the corresponding Cap 

and Trade liabilities at the end of the compliance period.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  49

 
Intangible assets recorded as part of a business combination generally consist of customer contracts, non-compete agreements, royalty 

agreements, trade names and other intangible assets. The assets are recorded at fair value, which is generally based on the future expected 

earnings. Software and technology patents are valued based on the cost to acquire these assets.

Superior’s amortization rates related to its intangible assets are summarized as follows:

Non-competition agreements
Royalty agreements
Software
Technology patents
Customer contracts

Term of the agreements (1–15 years) 
1–10 years
1–5 years
Approximately 10 years
5–10 years

(f) Impairment of Property, Plant and Equipment, Intangible Assets and Investment Properties

At each balance sheet date and when circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired, Superior reviews the carrying amounts of its 

tangible and intangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss to confirm whether 

the assets have indeed suffered an impairment loss. If so, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of 

the impairment loss, if any. Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, Superior estimates the recoverable 

amount of the cash-generating unit (CGU) to which the asset belongs. A CGU is the smallest level of assets that generates cash inflows from 

continuing use that are largely independent of the cash inflows of other assets or groups.

Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value-in-use.

An impairment loss is recognized if the carrying amount of an asset, CGU or group of CGUs exceeds its recoverable amount. Impairment losses are 

recognized immediately as a separate line item in the consolidated statements of net earnings.

A previous impairment, if any, is subsequently assessed for any indication that the impairment has been reduced or no longer exists. An 

impairment loss is reversed if there has been an increase in the recoverable amount of an asset or CGU over its carrying value. Impairment losses 

are reversed only to the extent that the asset’s or CGU’s carrying amount would not exceed the carrying amount that would have been reported if 

no impairment loss had been recognized.

(g) Business Combinations

All business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. The consideration transferred in a business combination is measured at 

fair value at the acquisition date of the assets given up, the liabilities incurred or assumed and equity instruments issued by Superior in exchange 

for control of the acquiree. Transaction costs, other than those associated with the issuance of debt or equity securities that Superior incurs in 

connection with a business combination are expensed as incurred. The acquiree’s identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities that meet 

the conditions for recognition under IFRS 3 – Business Combinations are recognized at their fair value at the acquisition date, except that:

 » Deferred tax assets or liabilities and liabilities or assets related to employee benefit arrangements are recognized and measured in 

accordance with International Accounting Standard (IAS) 12 – Income Taxes and IAS 19 – Employee Benefits, respectively;

 »

Liabilities or equity instruments related to the replacement by Superior of an acquiree’s share-based payment awards are measured in 

accordance with IFRS 2 – Share-based Payment; and

 » Assets or disposals that are classified as held for sale in accordance with IFRS 5 – Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations 

are measured in accordance with that standard.

Contingent liabilities acquired in a business combination are initially measured at fair value at the date of acquisition. At subsequent reporting 

dates, such contingent liabilities are measured at the amount that would be recognized in accordance with IAS 37 – Provisions, Contingent Liabilities 

and Contingent Assets.

Intangible assets arising on acquisition are recognized at fair value at the date of acquisition. The fair value is based on detailed cash flow models 

and other metrics depending on the type of intangible asset being recognized.

Goodwill arising on acquisition is recognized as an asset and initially measured at cost, being the excess of the cost of the business combination 

over Superior’s interest in the net fair value of the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities recognized. If the net amounts assigned to 

the assets acquired and liabilities assumed exceed the cost of the purchase, then Superior is required to reassess the value of both the cost and net 

assets acquired and any excess remaining after this reassessment is recognized immediately in net earnings. Goodwill is initially recognized as an 

asset at cost and is subsequently measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses.

50  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

If the initial accounting for a business combination is incomplete by the end of the reporting period in which the combination occurs, Superior will 

report provisional amounts for the items for which the accounting is incomplete. Those provisional amounts are adjusted during the measurement 

period (see below), or additional assets or liabilities are recognized, to reflect new information obtained about facts and circumstances at the 

acquisition date that, if known, would have affected the amounts recognized at that date.

The measurement period is the period from the date of acquisition to the date Superior obtains complete information about facts and 

circumstances as of the acquisition date, to a maximum of one year.

(h) Goodwill

Goodwill arising in a business combination is recognized as an asset at the date control commences (the acquisition date). Goodwill is not amortized 

but is reviewed for impairment at least annually, on December 31. For purposes of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to each of Superior’s 

CGUs expected to benefit from the synergies of the combination. CGUs to which goodwill has been allocated are tested for impairment annually 

or more frequently upon indication of impairment. If the recoverable amount of the CGU is less than its carrying amount, the impairment loss is 

allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the unit and then to other assets of the unit pro-rata on the basis of the 

carrying amount of each asset in the unit. An impairment loss recognized for goodwill is not reversed in a subsequent period.

On disposal of a group of assets, the attributable amount of goodwill is included in the determination of the net gain or loss on disposal.

(i) Revenue Recognition

Revenue is measured based on the consideration specified in a contract with a customer and excludes amounts collected on behalf of third parties. 

The Company recognizes revenue when it transfers control over a product or service to a customer, which may occur at a point in time or over a 

period of time.

The Company generates its revenue through its principal activities, which are separated by reportable segments. The nature of the goods and 

services and the timing of satisfaction of performance obligations is as follows:

Energy Distribution

(i) 

U.S. and Canada propane distribution business

 Propane sales contracts include supply of propane along with the loaning of storage tanks, equipment and related servicing and 

maintenance activities provided by the Company. Revenue from sale of propane is recognized when control of the goods has transferred, 

being when the goods are delivered to the customer (which occurs when the goods have been shipped to the specific location), the customer 

has full discretion over the goods, and there is no unfulfilled obligation that could affect the customer’s acceptance of the products. Payment 

terms are generally 30 days from the delivery date. Customers may be required to provide a deposit depending on credit quality. These 

deposits are recorded as part of contract liabilities and recognized into income over the period that it relates to.

 Revenue from loaning of storage tanks and maintenance activities is recognized as the performance obligations are satisfied over time, 

which is generally in accordance with the terms of the contract. The customer does not control the storage tank during the term of the 

contract. The customer does not have the right to direct the use of the storage tank, and there is no practical or contractual restriction on  

the Company’s ability to transfer the storage tank to another customer. The Company is able to redirect the storage tank to another 

customer at little or no additional cost and therefore it has an alternative use to the Company. In many cases, propane sales and the loaning 

of storage tanks is included under one sales contract. Propane sales prices are consistent based on the customer geography and type and 

therefore, the residual amount is related to loaning of storage tanks. Customers typically pay for tank rentals annually, semi-annually or on a  

month-by-month basis. Rental payments received for periods greater than a month are recorded as part of contract liabilities and 

recognized into income over the period that it relates to.

(ii) 

U.S. refined fuels distribution business

 This business is involved in the distribution of heating oil and refined fuels in the northeastern United States. Its products are generally used 

in home heating, water heating and motor vehicle fuel. Revenue from sale of refined fuels is also recognized when control of the goods has 

transferred, being when the goods are delivered to the customer (which occurs when the goods have been shipped to the specific location), 

the customer has full discretion over the goods, and there is no unfulfilled obligation that could affect the customer’s acceptance of the 

products. Payment terms are generally 30 days from the delivery date. Customers may be required to provide a deposit depending on credit 

quality. These deposits are recorded as part of contract liabilities. Customers typically pay for tank rentals annually, semi-annually or on a 

month-by-month basis. Rental payments received for periods greater than a month are recorded as part of contract liabilities.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  51

 
 
 
 
Specialty Chemicals

Specialty Chemicals is involved in the distribution of sodium chlorate and environmentally preferred chlorine dioxide technology to the pulp and 

paper industries as well as a supplier of potassium and chlor-alkali products. Revenue from sale of specialty chemicals is also recognized when 

control of the goods has transferred, and customer has full discretion over the goods. Payment terms are generally 30 days from the delivery date. 

Customers may be required to provide a deposit depending on credit quality. These deposits are recorded as part of contract liabilities.

Sales where the Company arranges and charges for freight is considered a separate performance obligation. Consequently, the portion of revenue 

related to freight is recognized when the goods are delivered to their destination.

(j) Leases

Leases are classified as finance leases whenever the terms of the lease transfer substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership to the lessee. 

All other leases are classified as operating leases.

Assets held under finance leases are initially recognized as assets of Superior at their fair value at the inception of the lease or, if lower, at the 

present value of the minimum lease payments. The corresponding liability to Superior is included in the balance sheet as a finance lease obligation 

as part of borrowing.

Lease payments are apportioned between finance expenses and reduction of the lease obligation so as to achieve a constant rate of interest on the 

remaining balance of the liability. Finance expenses are recognized immediately in net earnings, unless they are directly attributable to qualifying 

assets, in which case they are capitalized in accordance with Superior’s general policy on borrowing costs (see (d) above). Contingent rentals are 

recognized as expenses in the period in which they are incurred.

Operating lease payments are recognized as an expense based on terms contained in the lease agreements. Contingent rentals arising under 

operating leases are recognized as an expense in the period in which they are incurred.

In the event lease incentives are received to enter into operating leases, such incentives are recognized as a liability. The aggregate benefit of 

incentives is recognized as a reduction of rental expense and amortized over the term of the lease.

(k) Provisions

Provisions are recognized when there is a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events, for which it is probable that payment 

will be required to settle the obligation, and where the amount can be reliably estimated.

The amount is the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the present obligation at the reporting date, taking into account the risks 

and uncertainties surrounding the obligation. When a provision is measured using the cash flows estimated to settle the present obligation, its 

carrying amount is the present value of those cash flows.

When some or all of the economic benefit required to settle a provision is expected to be recovered from a third party, the receivable is recognized 

as an asset if it is virtually certain that reimbursement will be received and the receivable can be measured reliably.

Decommissioning Costs

Liabilities for decommissioning costs are recognized when Superior has an obligation to dismantle and remove a facility or an item of plant and to 

restore the site on which it is located, and when a reliable estimate of that liability can be made. Generally, the costs relate to Specialty Chemicals 

facilities and Energy Distribution assets. Decommissioning costs are provided at the present value of expected costs to settle the obligation using 

estimated cash flows. The cash flows are discounted at a current pre-tax rate that reflects the risks specific to the decommissioning liability. 

The unwinding of the discount is expensed as incurred and recognized in net earnings as a finance expense. The estimated future costs of 

decommissioning are reviewed annually and adjusted as appropriate. A corresponding item of property, plant and equipment of an amount equal 

to the provision is also created. This is subsequently amortized as part of the asset. Changes in the estimated future costs or in the discount rate 

applied are added to or deducted from the cost of the asset.

Environmental Expenditures and Liabilities

Environmental expenditures that relate to current or future revenues are expensed or capitalized as appropriate. Expenditures that relate to an 

existing condition caused by past operations and do not contribute to current or future earnings are expensed.

Liabilities for environmental costs are recognized when a clean-up is probable and the associated costs can be reliably estimated. Generally, the 

timing of recognition of these provisions coincides with the commitment to a formal plan of action or, if earlier, on divestment or on closure of 

inactive sites.

52  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

The amount recognized is the best estimate of the expenditure required. When the liability will not be settled for a number of years, the amount 

recognized is the present value of the estimated future expenditure.

Restructuring

A restructuring provision is recognized when Superior has developed a detailed formal restructuring plan and has raised a valid expectation in 

those affected that it will carry out the restructuring by starting to implement the plan or announcing its main features to those affected. The 

measurement of a restructuring provision includes only the direct expenditures arising from the restructuring.

(l) Employee Future Benefits

Superior has a number of defined-benefit and defined contribution plans providing pension and other post-employment benefits to most of its 

employees. Superior accrues its obligations under the plans and the related costs, net of plan assets.

Contributions to defined contribution plans are recognized as an expense when employees have rendered service entitling them to the 

contributions.

For defined-benefit plans, the cost of providing benefits is determined using the projected unit credit method, with actuarial valuations being 

carried out at each balance sheet date. The net obligation for each defined-benefit plan is discounted to determine the present value using the yield 

at the reporting date on high-quality Canadian corporate bonds. Plan assets are measured at fair value and the difference between the fair value 

of the plan assets and the present value of the defined-benefit obligation is recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as an asset or liability. 

Costs charged to Consolidated Statement of Net Loss include current service cost, any past service costs, any gains or losses from curtailments 

and interest on the net defined-benefit asset or liability. Actuarial gains and losses arising from experience adjustments and changes in actuarial 

assumptions are recognized in other comprehensive income in the period in which they occur.

The defined-benefit obligation recognized in the balance sheet represents the present value adjusted for unrecognized actuarial gains and losses 

and unrecognized past service cost, and reduced by the fair value of plan assets. Any asset resulting from this calculation is limited to unrecognized 

actuarial losses and past service cost, plus the present value of available refunds and reductions in future contributions to the plan.

(m) Income Taxes

Income tax expense represents the sum of current income taxes payable and deferred income taxes.

Current Income Taxes

The income tax currently payable is based on taxable net earnings for the year. Taxable net earnings differ from net earnings as reported in the 

Consolidated Statements of Net Loss and Total Comprehensive Earnings (Loss) because they exclude items of income or expense that are taxable 

or deductible in other years as well as items that are never taxable or deductible. Superior’s liability for current income tax is calculated using tax 

rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date.

Deferred Income Taxes

Deferred income tax is recognized on differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and the 

corresponding tax basis used in the computation of taxable net earnings. Deferred income tax assets are generally recognized for all deductible 

temporary differences to the extent that it is probable that taxable net earnings will be available against which those deductible temporary 

differences can be utilized. Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for all taxable temporary differences, except for the following:

 » When the deferred tax liability arises from the initial recognition of goodwill;

 » When an asset or liability in a transaction is not a business combination and, at the time of the transaction, affects neither the accounting net 

earnings or taxable net earnings; or

 »

In respect of taxable temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, associates and interests in joint ventures, where 

the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences can be controlled by Superior and it is unlikely that the temporary differences will be 

reversed in the foreseeable future.

Deferred tax assets arising from deductible temporary differences associated with such investments and interests are only recognized to the extent 

that they are expected to be reversed in the foreseeable future and it is probable that there will be sufficient taxable net earnings against which 

to utilize the benefits of the temporary differences. A deferred tax asset may also be recognized for the benefit expected from unused tax losses 

available for carry-forward, to the extent that it is probable that future taxable earnings will be available against which the tax losses can be applied.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  53

 
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period in which the liability is settled or the asset 

realized, based on tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date. The measurement of deferred tax 

liabilities and assets reflects the tax consequences that would follow from the manner in which Superior expects, at the reporting date, to recover 

or settle the carrying amount of its assets and liabilities.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets against current liabilities and when 

they are related to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority and Superior intends to settle its current tax assets and liabilities on a net 

basis. Also, Superior recognizes any benefit associated with investment tax credits as deferred tax assets to the extent they are expected to be 

utilized in accordance with IAS 12 – Income Taxes.

Uncertain Tax Positions

Superior is subject to taxation in numerous jurisdictions. There are many transactions and calculations during the course of business for which the 

ultimate tax determination is uncertain. It is possible, however, that at some future date, liabilities in excess of Superior’s provisions could result 

from audits by or litigation with tax authorities. Where the final outcome of these tax-related matters is different from the amounts that were 

initially recorded, such differences will affect the tax provisions in the period in which such determination is made.

Current and Deferred Tax for the Period

Current and deferred tax are recognized as an expense in net earnings, except where they relate to amounts recognized outside of net earnings 

(whether in other comprehensive income or directly in equity), in which case the tax is also recognized outside of net earnings, or where they arise 

from the initial accounting for a business combination. In the case of a business combination, the tax effect is included in the accounting for the 

business combination.

(n) Foreign Currencies

The financial statements of each subsidiary of Superior are translated into the currency of the subsidiary’s primary economic environment (its 

functional currency). For the purpose of the consolidated financial statements, the results and balance sheets of each subsidiary are expressed in 

Canadian dollars, Superior’s presentation currency. Transactions are recognized at the rates of exchange prevailing at the transaction date.

At the end of each reporting period, monetary items denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rates prevailing at the period-end. 

Non-monetary items that are measured at fair value in a foreign currency shall be translated using the exchange rates at the date when the fair 

value is measured. Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency shall be translated using the exchange 

rate at the date of the transaction and are not retranslated.

For the purposes of presenting Superior’s consolidated financial statements, the assets and liabilities of Superior’s foreign operations, namely of 

Energy Distribution and Specialty Chemicals in the United States, and of Specialty Chemicals in Chile, are translated using exchange rates prevailing 

at the end of each reporting period. Income and expense items are translated at the average exchange rates for the period.

Goodwill and fair value measurements of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed through acquisition of a foreign operation are treated 

as assets and liabilities of the foreign operation and translated at the rate of exchange prevailing at the end of each reporting period. Exchange 

differences are recognized in other comprehensive income for the period.

(o) Share-Based Payments

Superior has established share-based compensation plans whereby notional restricted shares and/or notional performance shares may be granted 

to employees. The fair value of these notional shares is estimated using the period-end quoted market price and recorded as an expense with an 

offsetting amount to accrued liabilities, re-measured at each balance sheet date. All share-based payments are settled in cash.

(p) Net (Loss) Earnings per Common Share

Basic net earnings per share are calculated by dividing the net earnings by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period, 

which is calculated using the number of shares outstanding at the end of each month in that year. Diluted net earnings per share are calculated by 

factoring in the dilutive impact of the dilutive instruments, including the conversion of debentures to shares using the if-converted method to assess 

the impact of dilution. Superior uses the treasury stock method to determine the impact of dilutive options, which assumes that the proceeds from 

in-the-money share options are used to repurchase shares at the average market price during the period.

54  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

(q) Significant Accounting Judgments, Estimates and Assumptions

The preparation of Superior’s consolidated financial statements in accordance with IFRS requires management to make judgments, estimates and 

assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, net earnings and related disclosure. The estimates and associated assumptions 

are based on historical experience and various other factors deemed reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis of 

making the judgments about carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from 

these estimates. The areas involving a higher degree of judgment or complexity, or where assumptions and estimates are significant to the financial 

statements, are as follows:

Fair Value of Derivative and Non-Financial Derivative Instruments

Where the fair values of financial derivative and non-financial derivatives cannot be derived from active markets, they are determined using 

valuation techniques including a discounted cash flow model. This requires assumptions concerning the amount and timing of estimated future 

cash flows and discount rates. Differences between actual values and assumed values will affect net earnings in the period when the difference is 

determined.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Superior recognizes an allowance for doubtful accounts based on historical customer collection history, general economic indicators and other 

customer-specific information, all of which require Superior to make certain assumptions. Where the actual collectability of accounts receivable 

differs from these estimates, such differences will have an impact on net earnings in the period such a determination is made.

Property, Plant and Equipment and Intangible Assets

Capitalized assets, including property, plant and equipment and intangible assets, are amortized over their respective estimated useful lives. All 

estimates of useful lives are set out in 2(d) and 2(e) above.

Provisions

Provisions have been estimated for decommissioning costs, restructuring and environmental expenditures. The actual costs and timing of future 

cash flows depend on future events. Any differences between estimates and the actual future liability will be accounted for in the period when 

such determination is made. Determining decommissioning liabilities requires estimates regarding the useful life of certain operating facilities, the 

timing and cost of future remediation activities, discount rates and the interpretation and changes to various environmental laws and regulations. 

Differences between estimates and results will affect Superior’s accrual for decommissioning liabilities, with an effect on net earnings.

Employee Future Benefits

Superior has a number of defined-benefit pension plans and other benefit plans. The cost of defined-benefit pension plans and the present value 

of the pension obligation are determined using actuarial valuations. These require assumptions including the determination of the discount rate, 

future salary increases, mortality rates and future pension increases. Due to the valuation’s complexity, its underlying assumptions and long-term 

nature, a defined benefit obligation is highly sensitive to changes in the underlying assumptions.

Income Tax Assets and Liabilities

Superior recognizes expected tax assets and liabilities based on estimates of current and future taxable net earnings, which may require significant 

judgment regarding the ultimate tax determination of certain items. If taxable net earnings differ from the estimates, there may be an impact on 

current and future income tax provisions in the period when the difference is determined.

Asset Impairments

Financial and non-financial assets are subject to impairment reviews based on whether current or future events and circumstances suggest that 

their recoverable amount may be less than their carrying value. Recoverable amounts are based on a calculation of expected future cash flows, 

which includes management assumptions and estimates of future performance.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  55

 
Critical Judgments in Applying Accounting Policies

In applying Superior’s accounting policies, described above, management makes judgments that could significantly affect the amounts recognized 

in the consolidated financial statements. The most critical of these judgments are:

Impairment of Property, Plant and Equipment

An impairment evaluation involves consideration of whether there are indicators of impairment. Indicators include: significant underperformance 

relative to historical or projected operating results, significant changes in the manner in which an asset is used or in Superior’s overall business 

strategy, or significant negative industry or economic trends. In some cases, these events are clear. In many cases, however, there is no clearly 

identifiable event. Instead, a series of individually insignificant events, some of them only later known, leads to an indication that an asset may 

be impaired. Management continually monitors Superior’s segments, the markets, and the business environment, and makes judgments and 

assessments about conditions and events in order to conclude whether there may be an impairment.

Income Taxes

Preparation of the consolidated financial statements involves making an estimate of, or provision for, income taxes in each of the jurisdictions in 

which Superior operates. The process also involves estimating taxes currently payable and taxes expected to be payable or recoverable in future 

periods, referred to as deferred income taxes. Deferred income taxes result from the effects of temporary differences due to items that are treated 

differently for tax and accounting purposes. The tax effects of these differences are reflected in the balance sheet as deferred income tax assets 

and liabilities. An assessment must also be made to determine the likelihood that Superior’s future taxable income will be sufficient to permit the 

recovery of deferred income tax assets. To the extent that such recovery is not probable, recognized deferred income tax assets must be reduced. 

Judgment is required in determining the provision for income taxes and recognition of deferred income tax assets and liabilities. Management must 

also exercise judgment in its assessment of continually changing tax interpretations, regulations and legislation, to ensure deferred income tax 

assets and liabilities are complete and fairly presented. The effects of differing assessments and applications could be material.

Purchase Price Allocation

All business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. This requires management to recognize all identifiable assets, liabilities 

and contingent liabilities at the acquisition date fair values with a few exceptions. The allocation of the purchase price to property, plant and 

equipment and intangible assets requires management to exercise judgment when determining the acquisition fair value of each asset and its 

respective useful life. Consideration paid in a business combination that exceeds the net fair value of assets and liabilities acquired is allocated 

to goodwill. Goodwill is reviewed for impairment at least annually. As disclosed in Note 3, a number of acquisitions were completed during 2018. 

Changes in the purchase price allocation could occur during the 12-month period following acquisition. Changes to the fair value of the assets and 

liabilities acquired could affect the purchase price allocation and the Energy Distribution’s net income.

Financial Instruments

The fair value of financial instruments is determined and classified in three categories, which are outlined below and discussed in more detail in 

Note 17.

Level I

Fair values in Level I are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments.

Level II

Fair values in Level II are determined using quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments 

in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and value drivers are observable in active markets.

Level III

Fair values in Level III are determined using valuations derived from valuation techniques in which one or more significant inputs or significant value 

drivers are unobservable.

The fair value measurement of a financial instrument is included in only one of the three levels, the determination of which is based on the lowest-

level input that is significant to the derivation of the fair value. Classification of financial instruments requires management to use judgment in 

respect of both the determination of fair value and the lowest-level input of significance.

56  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

Revenue from sale of specialty chemicals

Chemical sales are sometimes sold with discounts and volume rebates. Revenue from these sales is recognized based on the price specified in the 

contract, net of the estimated discounts and volume rebates. Accumulated experience is used to estimate and provide for the discounts, using the 

expected value or most likely method, and revenue is only recognized to the extent that it is highly probable that a significant reversal will not occur. 

A contract liability is recognized for expected discounts payable to customers in relation to sales made until the end of the reporting period. No 

element of significant financing component exists.

Revenue from sale of propane, including storage tanks

Certain propane supply contracts entered into by the Company include sale of propane along with the loaning of storage tanks and equipment 

by the Company. Because these contracts include multiple performance obligations, the transaction price must be allocated to the performance 

obligations.

Management estimates the stand-alone selling price using the residual approach. The price of propane charged is consistent by geography and 

customer type, whereas fees and discounts associated with loaning storage tank can vary. Management allocates revenue to the sale of propane 

based on the consistent price by customer geography and region and the residual amount is applied to loaning the storage tank. Revenue from the 

sale of propane is recognized when delivered and revenue from storage tanks and equipment is recognized over the contract period.

Standards issued but not yet effective

The new and amended standards and interpretations that are issued, but not yet effective, up to the date of issuance of the Company’s financial 

statements are disclosed below. The Company intends to adopt these new and amended standards and interpretations, if applicable, when they 

become effective.

The Company has not early adopted any standards, interpretations or amendments that have been issued but are not yet effective.

IFRIC	23 – Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments

On June 23, 2017, the IASB issued IFRIC Interpretation 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments, which clarifies how to apply the recognition 

and measurement requirements in IAS 12 Income Taxes when there is uncertainty over income tax treatments. Application of the standard is 

mandatory for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019, with earlier application permitted. The Company plans to adopt the 

new Interpretation beginning January 1, 2019. Management does not expect the adoption of IFRIC 23 to have a material impact on the Company’s 

results.

IFRS	16	– Leases

On January 13, 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16 Leases, which requires lessees to recognize assets and liabilities for most leases, as well as 

corresponding amortization and finance expense. Application of the standard is mandatory for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 

January 1, 2019, with earlier application permitted. The Company plans to adopt the new standard beginning January 1, 2019.

The Company plans to adopt IFRS 16 using the modified retrospective approach and accordingly the information presented for 2018 will not be 

restated and will remain as previously reported under IAS 17 and related interpretations. The Company plans to elect the standard using the 

following expedients permitted by the standard:

 » The Company will elect to record a right-of-use asset based on the corresponding lease liability.

 » The use of a single discount rate to a portfolio of leases with reasonably similar characteristics.

 » Accounting for leases for which the lease term ends within 12 months of the date of initial application as short-term leases.

 » The exclusion of initial direct costs for the measurement of the right-of-use asset at the date of initial application, and

 » The use of hindsight in determining the lease term where the contract includes extension or termination options.

The Company expects that the new standard will result in the Company recording a right-of-use asset and a corresponding liability in the amount 

of $175 to $200 million. In addition to the increase in assets and liabilities, the impact of IFRS 16 will increase amortization, finance expense and 

reduce other selling, distribution and administrative expenses. The Company also expects that cash flow from operating activities will increase 

under the new standard because lease payments for most leases will be recorded as cash outflows from financing activities in the statements of 

cash flows.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  57

 
3. Acquisitions and Divestitures 

2018 Acquisitions

2018

Cash

Accounts receivable

Prepaid expenses

Inventory and other current assets

Property, plant and equipment

Other assets

Intangibles

Assets sold

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

Contract liabilities

Provisions

Long-term debt

Deferred tax liability

Net identifiable assets and liabilities

Goodwill arising on acquisition

Total consideration

Fair value of deferred consideration

Cash paid on acquisition

Total consideration

Musco Fuel  
& Propane  
LLP

United  
Pacific  
Energy

Porco  
Energy  
Corp.

NGL  
Propane, 
 LLC

Blue Flame  
Gas Service

Hi-Grade  
Oil

—

0.7

—

0.1

1.7

—

12.6

—

(1.1)

—

—

—

—

14.0

5.0

19.0

1.2

17.8

19.0

0.7

14.5

4.7

1.5

18.5

4.2

10.7

—

(8.0)

—

(0.4)

—

(7.1)

39.3

12.2

51.5

—

51.5

51.5

—

0.8

—

0.4

5.1

—

12.8

—

(0.6)

—

—

—

—

18.5

—

18.5

5.4

13.1

18.5

4.7

29.3

3.4

14.5

386.2

1.6

164.5

—

(44.5)

(3.3)

(6.8)

(8.9)

—

540.7

624.9

1,165.6

—

1,165.6

1,165.6

—

0.8

—

0.1

3.9

—

10.6

—

(1.7)

—

—

—

—

13.7

—

13.7

2.1

11.6

13.7

—

1.0

—

—

2.3

—

3.7

2.4

(1.1)

—

—

—

8.3

—

8.3

—

8.3

8.3

The acquisition costs directly attributable to the following acquisitions were expensed and are included in selling, distribution and administrative 

costs. The goodwill recognized represents the expected synergies from operations and the intangible assets that do not qualify for separate 

recognition. Goodwill arising on acquisition is deductible for tax purposes unless otherwise noted and forms part of the Energy Distribution 

segment, unless otherwise noted. The acquisitions were initially funded by drawing on Superior’s credit facility, unless otherwise noted.

(a) United Pacific Energy (UPE)

On October 2, 2018, Superior closed the acquisition of United Liquid Gas Company (UPE) for $42.6 million (US$33 million) plus working capital 

consideration of $8.9 million (US$6.9 million).

The above values represent management’s preliminary estimate of the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Management is still 

assessing the information obtained, including evaluating impact and assumptions to be used in estimating the fair value of property, plant and 

equipment. In addition management is working with the seller to finalize the working capital adjustment. The results of these procedures may 

change the above values during the 12-month measurement period. Goodwill related to the UPE acquisition is not deductible for tax purposes and 

forms part of the Energy Distribution segment.

Revenue and net earnings for the year ended December 31, 2018, would have been $199.3 million and $4.0 million, respectively, if the acquisition 

had occurred on January 1, 2018. Subsequent to the acquisition date of October 2, 2018, the acquisition contributed revenue and net earnings of 

$63.0 million and $2.8 million, respectively, to the Energy Distribution segment for the period ended December 31, 2018.

(b) NGL Propane, LLC (NGL)

On July 10, 2018, Superior completed the acquisition of NGL Propane, LLC, NGL Energy Partners LP’s retail propane distribution business (NGL) for 

cash proceeds of $1,165.6 million (US$889.8 million), net of customary closing adjustments and excluding transaction costs. The purchase price was 

financed through a combination of debt and equity. The acquisition costs directly attributable to the acquisition of NGL were approximately  

$10.0 million. These costs were expensed and included in selling, distribution and administrative costs.

Revenue and net loss for the year ended December 31, 2018, would have been $623.6 million and $49.6 million, respectively, if the acquisition had 

occurred on January 1, 2018. Subsequent to the acquisition date of July 10, 2018, the acquisition contributed revenue and net earnings of  

$245.8 million and $10.7 million, respectively, to the Energy Distribution segment for the period ended December 31, 2018.

58  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

Superior has updated the purchase price allocation and restated the previously reported fair values as follows:

Current assets

Property, plant and equipment

Other assets

Intangibles

Goodwill

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

Contract liabilities

Other liabilities

Long-term debt

Previously Reported

Adjustment

59.8

273.9

3.2

195.0

718.9

(18.0)

(26.9)

(35.4)

—

(6.9)

112.3

(2.7)

(29.5)

(94.0)

(26.5)

23.6

28.7

(8.9)

2018

52.9

386.2

0.5

165.5

624.9

(44.5)

(3.3)

(6.7)

(8.9)

Intangibles in the amount of $165.5 million represents the value of the customer relationships and will be amortized over the estimated life of these 

relationships of approximately 8 years.

The above values represent management’s preliminary estimate of the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Management is still 

assessing the information obtained, including evaluating inputs and assumptions to be used in estimating the fair value of property, plant and 

equipment. The results of these procedures may change the above values during the 12-month measurement period. Adjustments to the original 

balances were primarily related to reclassifying balances to conform with the current presentation and to update management’s preliminary 

estimate of fair value.

(c) Musco Fuel & Propane LLP (Musco)

On November 1, 2018, Superior closed the acquisition of substantially all of the propane distribution assets of Musco Fuel & Propane, LLP (Musco) 

for total cash consideration of $17.8 million (US$13.5 million) and deferred payments of $1.3 million (US$1.0 million).

Revenue and net earnings for year ended December 31, 2018, would have been $9.4 million and $1.6 million, respectively, if the acquisition had 

occurred on January 1, 2018. Subsequent to the acquisition date of November 1, 2018, the acquisition contributed revenue and net earnings of  

$2.3 million and $0.5 million, respectively, to the Energy Distribution segment for the period ended December 31, 2018.

(d) Porco Energy Corp. (Porco)

On September 21, 2018, Superior closed the acquisition of the propane distribution assets of Porco, an independent propane and distillate fuel 

distributor in New York for total cash consideration of $13.1 million (US$10.5 million) and deferred payments of $6.9 million (US$5.5 million).

Revenue and net earnings for the year ended December 31, 2018, would have been $19.3 million and $1.7 million, respectively, if the acquisition 

had occurred on January 1, 2018. Subsequent to the acquisition date of September 21, 2018, the acquisition contributed revenue and net earnings 

of $3.5 million and $0.9 million, respectively, to the Energy Distribution segment for the period ended December 31, 2018.

(e) Blue Flame Gas Service (Blue Flame)

On May 1, 2018, Superior closed the acquisition of the propane distribution assets of Blue Flame Gas Service, an independent propane distributor in 

Pennsylvania for total cash consideration of $11.6 million (US$9.0 million) and deferred payments of $2.6 million (US$2.0 million).

Revenue and net earnings for the year ended December 31, 2018, would have been $8.1 million and $0.2 million, respectively, if the acquisition had 

occurred on January 1, 2018. Subsequent to the acquisition date of May 1, 2018, the acquisition contributed revenue and net loss of $3.8 million and 

$0.7 million, respectively, to the Energy Distribution segment for the period ended December 31, 2018.

(f) Hi-Grade Oil (Hi-Grade)

On February 2, 2018, Superior closed the acquisition of the propane distribution assets of Hi-Grade, an independent propane and distillate fuel 

distributor in Ohio for total cash consideration of $8.3 million (US$6.4 million). Immediately following this purchase the distillate assets were sold to 

another party for approximately $2.4 million (US$1.7 million).

Revenue and net earnings for the year ended December 31, 2018, would have been $3.6 million and $1.1 million, respectively, if the acquisition had 

occurred on January 1, 2018. Subsequent to the acquisition date of February 2, 2018, the acquisition contributed revenue and net earnings of  

$2.9 million and $0.8 million, respectively, to the Energy Distribution segment for the period ended December 31, 2018.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  59

 
2017 Acquisitions

2017

Cash

Accounts receivable

Prepaid expenses

Inventory

Property, plant and equipment

Other assets

Intangibles

Assets held for sale

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

Other liabilities

Long-term debt

Provisions

Other liabilities

Deferred tax liability

Net identifiable assets and liabilities

Goodwill arising on acquisition

Total consideration

Fair value of deferred consideration

Cash paid on acquisition

Total consideration

(g) Canwest Propane (Canwest)

Pomerleau Gaz  
Propane Inc.

Canwest 
Propane

Yankee Propane 
Inc. and Virginia 
Propane, Inc.

R.W. Earhart 
Company

International 
Dioxcide Inc.

0.5

1.5

0.1

0.1

5.1

—

5.8

—

(0.8)

—

(1.3)

—

—

(1.1)

9.9

0.8

10.7

—

10.7

10.7

39.2

15.2

4.2

0.9

161.8

2.9

160.6

13.0

(16.1)

(2.5)

—

(7.7)

(1.6)

(71.0)

298.9

133.5

432.4

—

432.4

432.4

—

—

—

—

9.8

—

18.9

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

28.7

10.0

38.7

4.0

34.7

38.7

—

1.8

—

—

16.7

—

18.8

—

(1.3)

—

—

—

—

—

36.0

8.3

44.3

—

44.3

44.3

1.2

7.8

2.6

—

1.2

—

7.3

—

(6.3)

(0.3)

—

—

—

(0.1)

13.4

1.0

14.4

—

14.4

14.4

On March 1, 2017, Superior entered into certain agreements to purchase 100% of the entities that carry on the industrial propane business 

of Canwest from Gibson Energy ULC (the Canwest Option) for cash consideration of $412.0 million plus $20.4 million of working capital. The 

acquisition was subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, including the receipt of customary regulatory approvals. On September 27, 2017, 

Superior received regulatory approval from the Competition Bureau and closed the acquisition of Canwest subject to certain conditions. As outlined 

in the consent agreement registered with the Competition Bureau, Superior agreed to divest five local branches and nine satellite locations from the 

combined Superior Propane and Canwest Propane organization. These assets were sold for $13.0 million which included approximately $1.6 million 

of working capital.

The purchase price allocation was finalized during the third quarter of 2018 and as a result, was adjusted as follows:

Property, plant and equipment was increased by approximately $45.3 million as a result of the finalization of fair value of these assets being higher 

than the original estimate. These assets are being amortized over the estimated remaining useful life of the respective class of assets.

Intangible assets was increased by approximately $153.5 million to $160.6 million. Of the total fair value $151.6 million represents the value of the 

customer relationships and will be amortized over the estimated life of these relationships of approximately 15 years. The remaining fair value is 

attributable to the brands that Canwest owns and operates under. These are being amortized over periods ranging from 5 to 15 years.

Assets held for sale was increased by $1.9 million to $13.0 million as a result of completing these disposals.

Debt was increased by $1.6 million as a result of aligning accounting policies which involved recording certain service vehicle leases as finance 

leases.

The deferred tax asset was decreased by approximately $46.9 million to account for the increase in the above fair values.

As a result of the above adjustments, goodwill was reduced by $152.2 million. The final goodwill balance of $133.5 million comprises the value 

of expected on going synergies from the acquisition. The goodwill arising from the acquisition is not deductible for tax purposes. The goodwill 

associated with the Canwest acquisition forms part of the Energy Distribution segment.

60  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

Upon completion of finalizing the purchase price allocation, Superior has restated the comparative period to record the impact of the finalized 

purchase allocation as if the accounting for the business combination had been completed at the acquisition date. As a result, the following changes 

were made:

Plant, property and equipment

Intangible assets

Assets held for sale

Goodwill

Deferred tax asset

Reported

1,077.1

85.3

14.8

504.5

87.4

Adjustment

Restatement

43.7

153.5

1.9

(152.2)

(46.9)

1,120.8

238.8

16.7

352.3

40.5

(h) Pomerleau Gaz Propane Inc. (Pomerleau)

On April 20, 2017, Superior acquired 100% of the shares of Pomerleau, a propane distributor serving residential and commercial customers in 

southeastern Québec. Revenue and net earnings for the year ended December 31, 2017 would have been $9.2 million and $0.6 million, respectively, 

if the acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2017. Subsequent to the acquisition date on April 20, 2017, the acquisition contributed revenue and 

net earnings of $4.5 million and $0.7 million, respectively, to the Energy Distribution segment for the year ended December 31, 2017. Goodwill 

arising on acquisition is not deductible for tax purposes.

(i) Yankee Inc. and Virginia Propane Inc. (Yankee)

On August 1, 2017, Superior acquired the assets of Yankee, propane distributors serving residential and commercial customers in New York, New 

Jersey and Virginia. Revenue and net earnings for the year ended December 31, 2017 would have been $19.5 million and $2.8 million, respectively, if 

the acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2017. Subsequent to the acquisition date on August 1, 2017, the acquisition contributed revenue and net 

earnings of $8.2 million and $0.2 million, respectively, to the Energy Distribution segment for the year ended December 31, 2017.

(j) R.W. Earhart Company (Earhart)

On October 12, 2017, Superior acquired the assets of Earhart for an aggregate purchase price of $47.6 million (US$38.0 million), less working capital 

and other adjustments for a final purchase price of $44.3 million (US$35.4 million). Revenue and net earnings for the year ended December 31, 

2017 would have been $25.3 million and $3.4 million, respectively, if the acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2017. Subsequent to the acquisition 

date on October 2, 2017, the acquisition contributed revenue and net earnings of $9.1 million and $2.1 million, respectively, to the Energy 

Distribution segment for the year ended December 31, 2017.

(k) International Dioxcide Inc. (IDI Holdings)

On October 12, 2017, Superior acquired 100% of the shares of IDI from LANXESS Corporation for cash consideration of $14.4 million  

(US$11.1 million) excluding taxes. IDI is a well-established company in the chlorine dioxide industry, operating for over 65 years with  

manufacturing operations in Rhode Island. Goodwill from IDI Holdings is included in Specialty Chemicals. Revenue and net earnings for the 

year ended December 31, 2017 would have been $19.0 million and $2.9 million, respectively, if the acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2017. 

Subsequent to the acquisition date on October 12, 2017, the acquisition contributed revenue and net earnings of $7.6 million and $0.7 million, 

respectively, to the Specialty Chemicals segment for the year ended December 31, 2017. Goodwill arising on acquisition is not deductible for  

tax purposes.

2018 Divestitures

On April 19, 2018, Superior Propane sold its inventory and fixed assets associated with the Petrofuels business in St. Catharines, Ontario to 

McDougall Energy Inc. for total purchase price of $4.1 million, resulting in a gain of $2.7 million. The gain is recorded as part of selling, distribution 

and administrative costs.

On April 3, 2018, Superior sold certain retail distillate assets in Pennsylvania to a third party for total cash consideration of $20.7 million 

(US$16.7 million). This resulted in a gain of $9.9 million (US$8.0 million). The gain is recorded as part of selling, distribution and administration costs.

On April 25, 2018, Superior sold certain wholesale refined fuels business assets located across five states in the northeast U.S., and three pipeline 

connected terminals located in New York to Sunoco LP for cash consideration of approximately $50.8 million (US$39.5 million), plus net working 

capital of approximately $20.4 million (US$16.0 million). This resulted in a gain of $5.3 million (US$4.1 million). The gain is recorded as part of selling, 

distribution and administration costs.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  61

 
4. Trade and Other Receivables

A summary of trade and other receivables is as follows:

Trade receivables, net of allowances

Accounts receivable – other

Trade and other receivables

 2018

343.7

39.5

383.2

Pursuant to their respective terms, trade receivables, before the deduction for an allowance for doubtful accounts, are aged as follows:

Current

Past due less than 90 days

Past due over 90 days

Trade receivables

 2018

246.7

94.4

13.8

354.9

2017

292.9

25.6

318.5

2017

212.4

80.4

7.0

299.8

The current portion of Superior’s trade receivables is neither impaired nor past due and there are no indications as of the reporting date that 

the debtors will not make payment. Superior’s trade receivables are stated after deducting a provision of $11.2 million as at December 31, 2018 

(December 31, 2017 – $6.9 million). The movement in the provision for doubtful accounts is as follows:

Allowance for doubtful accounts, beginning of the period

Impact of acquisitions and disposals

Impairment losses recognized on receivables

Amounts written off during the year as uncollectible

Amounts recovered

Allowance for doubtful accounts, end of the period

5. Prepaid Expenses

Prepaid insurance

Tax installments

Deposits

Leases and licenses

Storage and rent

Miscellaneous prepaids and other

Balance, end of the year

6. Inventories

Propane, heating oil and other refined fuels

Propane retailing materials, supplies, appliances and other

Chemical finished goods and raw materials

Chemical stores, supplies and other

Cost of inventories recognized as an expense

Inventory write-downs recorded in cost of sales

Write-down reversals recorded in cost of sales

62  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 2018

(6.9)

(2.3)

(6.4)

3.5

0.9

(11.2)

 2018

14.9

5.0

18.5

3.1

1.7

6.1

49.3

 2018

87.3

10.2

31.6

17.7

146.8

2017

(4.3)

(3.1)

(4.0)

2.3

2.2

(6.9)

2017

14.5

5.9

1.4

2.4

1.0

4.2

29.4

2017

85.6

8.0

28.3

15.1

137.0

 2018

1,552.0

7.3

(0.1)

2017

1,435.6

2.6

(1.1)

7. Property, Plant and Equipment

Cost

Balance at December 31, 2016

  Additions

  Acquisitions through business combinations (Note 3)

  Adjustments related to ARO and provisions

  Disposals

  Net foreign currency exchange differences

  Reclassification

  Other

As at December 31, 2017(1)

  Additions

  Acquisitions through business (Note 3) combinations

  Adjustments related to ARO and provisions

  Disposals

  Net foreign currency exchange differences

  Reclassification

Balance at December 31, 2018

Accumulated Depreciation

Balance at December 31, 2016

  Depreciation expense

Eliminated on disposal of assets

  Net foreign currency exchange differences

  Reclassification

  Other

Balance at December 31, 2017(1)

  Depreciation expense

Eliminated on disposal of assets

  Net foreign currency exchange differences

  Other

Balance at December 31, 2018

Carrying Amount

As at December 31, 2017(1)

Balance at December 31, 2018

(1)	 2017	balances	have	been	restated	(see	Note	3)

Depreciation per cost category:

Selling, distribution and administrative costs

Cost of sales

Total

Land

Buildings

Specialty 
Chemicals 
Plant and 
Equipment

Energy 
Distribution 
Retailing 
Equipment

Leasehold 
Improvements

31.6

0.2

18.8

—

(1.0)

(0.7)

(0.2)

(0.4)

48.3

8.2

20.3

—

(3.0)

2.0

(1.6)

74.2

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

206.3

3.9

11.2

44.6

(1.8)

(6.1)

0.3

(0.7)

257.7

2.9

29.8

6.7

(8.8)

10.8

—

964.1

25.9

1.2

—

(1.8)

(28.1)

—

—

961.3

27.0

—

21.9

(6.2)

35.7

—

960.5

30.1

14.2

—

(2.1)

(12.9)

(0.1)

(11.5)

978.2

81.6

367.6

—

(168.0)

39.5

—

299.1

1,039.7

1,298.9

80.0

8.8

(0.3)

(2.2)

(0.1)

(0.8)

85.4

12.4

(6.1)

3.6

—

95.3

541.9

45.4

(1.3)

(14.1)

—

—

571.9

44.9

(6.1)

19.6

—

630.3

446.6

48.0

(14.1)

(7.6)

—

(1.2)

471.7

93.7

(115.3)

12.2

—

462.3

6.0

1.2

1.5

—

(0.1)

—

—

—

8.6

0.7

—

—

(2.2)

(0.1)

1.6

8.6

3.2

1.1

(0.1)

—

0.1

—

4.3

0.9

(0.6)

—

0.2

4.8

Total

2,168.5

61.3

46.9

44.6

(6.8)

(47.8)

—

(12.6)

2,254.1

120.4

417.7

28.6

(188.2)

87.9

—

2,720.5

1,071.7

103.3

(15.8)

(23.9)

—

(2.0)

1,133.3

151.9

(128.1)

35.4

0.2

1,192.7

48.3

74.2

172.3

203.8

389.4

409.4

506.5

836.6

4.3

3.8

1,120.8

1,527.8

 2018

98.3

53.6

151.9

2017

51.0

52.3

103.3

The carrying amount of Superior’s property, plant and equipment includes $65.6 million of leased assets as at December 31, 2018 (December 31, 

2017 – $63.9 million).

Superior evaluated the property, plant and equipment as at December 31, 2018 and 2017 for indicators of impairment and no impairment was 

identified. Therefore, the carrying value was not adjusted. See Note 9 for further details on testing of property, plant, and equipment impairment  

in CGUs.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  63

 
 
 
 
8. Intangible Assets

Customer 
Relationships

Cap and Trade 
Emissions Units 
Purchased

Energy 
Distribution 
Trademarks, 
Non-Compete 
Agreements and 
Other Intangible 
Assets

Specialty 
Chemicals 
Royalty Assets 
and Patents

Other 
Intangible 
Assets

Cost

Balance at December 31, 2016

  Acquisitions through business combinations (Note 3)

  Additions from internal development

  Additions acquired separately

  Net foreign currency exchange differences

Balance at December 31, 2017(1)

  Acquisitions through business combinations (Note 3)

  Additions from internal development

  Additions acquired separately

  Disposals

  Net foreign currency exchange differences

Balance at December 31, 2018

Accumulated Amortization

Balance at December 31, 2016

  Amortization expense

  Net foreign currency exchange differences

Balance at December 31, 2017

  Amortization expense

  Disposals

  Net foreign currency exchange differences

Balance at December 31, 2018

Carrying value

As at December 31, 2017

As at December 31, 2018

—

156.2

—

—

—

156.2

183.6

—

2.1

(23.2)

—

318.7

—

0.6

—

0.6

2.0

(21.5)

—

(18.9)

9.1

—

—

1.1

—

10.2

1.3

—

5.5

(11.7)

—

5.3

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

155.6

337.6

10.2

5.3

48.4

47.8

—

4.7

(0.9)

100.0

30.0

1.0

3.1

(10.2)

12.3

136.2

25.5

9.0

(0.3)

34.2

44.1

(6.2)

1.6

73.7

65.8

62.5

—

7.3

—

—

(0.2)

7.1

—

—

—

—

0.6

7.7

—

—

—

—

1.1

—

—

1.1

7.1

6.6

Total

57.5

211.3

0.1

5.8

(1.1)

273.6

214.9

1.0

10.7

(45.1)

12.9

468.0

25.5

9.6

(0.3)

34.8

47.2

(27.7)

1.6

55.9

—

—

0.1

—

—

0.1

—

—

—

—

—

0.1

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

0.1

0.1

238.8

412.1

(1)	 2017	balances	have	been	restated.	See	Note	3	under	Canwest	Propane.

Superior evaluated intangibles as at December 31, 2018 and 2017 for indicators of impairment and the Company did not identify any impairment. 

Therefore, the carrying value was not adjusted for the current year.

During the year, the Company invested $3.1 million (2017 – $4.7 million) in new software systems and enhancements to existing systems. These 

additions include the cost of the software, the installation and consulting services relating to the enhancements and implementation of these 

systems.

64  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

9. Goodwill

Balance, beginning of the year

  Amounts recognized from business combinations during the year (Note 3)

Effect of foreign currency differences

Balance, end of the year

 2018

352.3

642.1

27.5

1,021.9

2017 (restated)

199.2

152.2

0.9

352.3

Goodwill is a result of a number of previous business combinations and is generally attributable to anticipated synergies and other intangibles that 

aren’t required to be separately identified. Goodwill by definition has an indefinite life and, therefore, is not amortized.

Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives

Goodwill is subject to impairment tests at least annually. For purposes of impairment testing, Superior assesses goodwill at the cash-generating unit 

(CGU) level.

Before recognition of impairment losses, the carrying amount of goodwill as at December 31 was allocated to the segments as follows:

Energy Distribution

Specialty Chemicals

 2018

2017 (restated)

1,020.9

1.0

1,021.9

351.3

1.0

352.3

Superior conducts assessments for indicators of impairment on a quarterly basis and performs a detailed impairment assessment at least annually. 

At December 31, 2018 and 2017, an impairment test was performed for all CGUs with allocated goodwill and no impairment was identified. The 

recoverable amount of each CGU was based on its value in use and was determined by estimating the future cash flows that would be generated 

from the continuing use of the CGU, incorporating the following assumptions:

Basis on which recoverable amount was determined

The recoverable amount for each CGU is determined using a detailed cash flow model which is based on evidence from an internal budget 

approved by the Board of Directors. Management’s internal budgets are based on past experience and are adjusted to reflect market trends and 

economic conditions.

Key rates used in calculation of recoverable amount

Growth rate to perpetuity

The first five years of cash flow projections used in the model are based on management’s internal budgets and projections after five years are 

extrapolated using growth rates in line with historical long-term growth rates. The long-term growth rate used in determining the recoverable 

amount for each CGU is 2% (2017 – 2.0%). Cash flow projections exclude any costs related to expansions through acquisitions and other related 

initiatives.

Discount rates

Cash flows in the model are discounted using a discount rate specific to each CGU which is adjusted based on risk assessments for each CGU. 

Discount rates reflect the current market assessments of the time value of money and are derived from the CGU’s weighted average cost of capital 

and are adjusted for tax. The after-tax discount rates used in determining the recoverable amount for the CGUs range from 10.0% to 11.6%  

(2017 – 9.6% to 11.2%).

Inflation rates

Inflation rates used in the cash flow model are based on a blend of a number of publicly available inflation forecasts. The inflation rate used in 

determining the recoverable amount for each CGU in 2018 is 2% (2017 – 2.0%).

Key assumptions

In determining the recoverable amount of each CGU, business, market and industry factors were considered.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  65

 
 
10. Provisions

Balance at December 31, 2016

Additions

Utilization

Amounts reversed during the year

Unwinding of discount

Impact of change in discount rate

Divestitures

Net foreign currency exchange difference

Balance at December 31, 2017

Additions

Utilization

Amounts reversed during the year

Unwinding of discount

Impact of change in discount rate

Acquisitions

Net foreign currency exchange difference

Balance at December 31, 2018

Current

Non-current

Restructuring

Restructuring

Decommissioning

Other

Total

4.8

12.5

(3.9)

(0.1)

—

—

—

0.1

13.4

—

(7.1)

(0.1)

—

—

—

—

6.2

20.4

41.0

—

(0.7)

0.6

3.6

0.3

(1.2)

64.0

25.9

(0.1)

(2.1)

2.2

2.7

7.2

(0.4)

99.4

0.1

7.8

(0.1)

—

—

—

—

—

7.8

—

—

(1.9)

—

—

—

—

5.9

 2018

7.8

103.7

111.5

25.3

61.3

(4.0)

(0.8)

0.6

3.6

0.3

(1.1)

85.2

25.9

(7.2)

(4.1)

2.2

2.7

7.2

(0.4)

111.5

2017

15.3

69.9

85.2

Provisions for restructuring are recorded in provisions, except for the current portion, which is recorded in trade and other payables. As at 

December 31, 2018, the current portion of restructuring costs was $6.2 million (December 31, 2017 – $13.4 million). The restructuring provisions 

relate primarily to the Canwest acquisition and is included in the Energy Distribution operating segment. The provision is primarily for severance, 

lease costs and consulting fees.

Decommissioning

The provisions are on a discounted basis and are based on existing technologies at current prices or long-term price assumptions, depending on 

the expected timing of the activity.

Specialty Chemicals

Superior makes full provision for the future cost of decommissioning Specialty Chemicals’ chemical facilities. As at December 31, 2018, the discount 

rate used in Superior’s calculation was 2.2% (December 31, 2017 – 2.26%). Superior estimates the total undiscounted expenditures required to settle 

its decommissioning liabilities to be approximately $149.8 million (December 31, 2017 – $115.0 million), which will be paid over the next one to  

40 years. While Superior’s provision for decommissioning costs is based on the best estimate of future costs and the economic lives of the chemical 

facilities, the amount and timing of these costs is uncertain.

Energy Distribution

Superior records a provision for the future costs of decommissioning certain assets associated with the Energy Distribution segment. Superior 

estimates the total undiscounted expenditures required to settle its decommissioning liabilities to be approximately $4.6 million as at December 31, 

2018 (December 31, 2017 – $8.5 million) which will be paid over the next 15 years. The discount rate of 2.2% at December 31, 2018 (December 31, 

2017 – 2.5%) was used to calculate the present value of the estimated cash flows.

66  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

Other

Environmental

Provisions for environmental remediation are made when a clean-up is probable and the amount of the obligation can be reliably estimated. 

Generally, this coincides with the commitment to a formal plan or, if earlier, on divestment or closure of inactive sites. Superior estimates the total 

undiscounted expenditures required to settle its environmental expenditures to be approximately nil as at December 31, 2018, (December 31,  

2017 – $0.1 million) which will be paid over the next year. The provision for environmental expenditures has been estimated using existing 

technology at current prices. No discount rate has been applied as the liability is to be settled within 12 months. The extent and cost of future 

remediation programs are inherently difficult to estimate. They depend on the scale of any possible contamination, the timing and extent of 

corrective actions, and Superior’s share of the liability.

Supply contract

As part of the bidding process to acquire Canwest, Superior was required to enter into a five-year supply agreement with the seller. The supply 

agreement was for terms that were unfavourable to Superior based on current supply arrangements under contract. The balance related to this 

contract is $5.9 million as at December 31, 2018, (December 31, 2017 – $7.7 million).

Other claims

Superior is subject to various claims and potential claims in the normal course of business, but the Company does not expect the ultimate 

settlement of any of these to have a material effect on its financial results. The outcomes of all the proceedings and claims against Superior are 

subject to future resolution that includes the uncertainties of litigation. It is not possible for Superior to predict the result or magnitude of the claims 

due to the various factors and uncertainties involved in the legal process. Based on information currently known to Superior, it is not probable 

that the ultimate resolution of any proceedings and claims, individually or in total, will have a material effect on the consolidated statements of 

net earnings and total comprehensive income or consolidated balance sheets. If it becomes probable that Superior is liable, Superior will record a 

provision in the period the change in probability occurs, and the resulting impact could be material to the consolidated statements of net earnings 

and total comprehensive income or consolidated balance sheets.

11. Trade and Other Payables

A summary of trade and other payables is as follows:

Trade payables

Provisions (see Note 8)

Other payables, including customer deposits

Current taxes payable

Quebec cap and trade program

Share-based payments

Trade and other payables

 2018

289.4

7.8

140.5

2.0

—

7.9

447.6

The average credit period on purchases by Superior is 21 days (2017 – 21 days). No interest is charged on the trade payables up to 10 days  

(2017 – 10 days) from the date of the invoice. Thereafter, interest is charged at a rate of up to 18% (2017 – 17%) per annum on the balance. 

Superior’s financial risk management policies ensure that payables are normally paid within the pre-agreed credit terms.

12. Contract Liabilities

Customer prepayments on tank rentals

Other

Total contract liabilities

 2018

23.1

0.7

23.9

2017

228.5

15.3

82.5

—

8.9

15.5

350.7

2017

7.6

2.3

9.9

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  67

 
Balance, beginning of the year

  Change in accounting policies

  Acquisitions

  Deferred during the year

  Recognized in net earnings

Foreign exchange impact

Balance, end of the year

 2018

9.9

10.4

3.3

35.3

(37.7)

2.7

23.9

2017

8.5

—

—

37.3

(36.2)

0.3

9.9

The opening balance of contract liabilities at each reporting period is recognized as revenue in the year as the Company does not generally receive 

deposits for periods longer than 12 months in advance of performing the related service.

13. Other Liabilities

Supply agreement

Québec cap and trade payable

Ontario cap and trade payable

California cap and trade payable

Share-based payments

Other liabilities

 2018

—

3.6

—

1.3

7.8

12.7

2017

2.5

—

1.5

—

—

4.0

The supply agreement above related to the Specialty Chemicals purchase and supply agreements with Tronox LLC (Tronox) whereby Superior 

agreed to purchase up to 130,000 metric tonnes of sodium chlorate per year from Tronox’s Hamilton, Mississippi facility, as nominated annually 

by Specialty Chemicals. Specialty Chemicals also agreed to supply Tronox with certain products to service Tronox’s requirements in North America. 

Tronox commenced decommissioning of the facility upon completion of Superior’s 2015 sodium chlorate requirements. However, Specialty 

Chemicals’ supply portion of the agreement will continue to 2019.

Superior operates in California and Quebec and is required to participate in the respective government cap and trade program, which requires 

Superior to settle any liability with compliance instruments at the end of each compliance period. In 2018, the Ontario government cancelled its 

program and Superior no longer has an obligation within this jurisdiction. Intangible assets are recorded when purchased and Cap and Trade 

liabilities are recorded upon the import of propane. The liability as at December 31, 2018 is $3.6 million for Quebec (December 31, 2017 – nil 

excluding $8.9 million which was reclassified to trade and other payables), and nil (December 31, 2017 – $1.5 million) for Ontario.

68  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 
14. Borrowing

Revolving Term Bank Credit Facilities(1)

  Bankers’ Acceptances (BA)

  Canadian Prime Rate Loan (Prime and Swingline)

LIBOR Loans  

Year of  
Maturity

Effective  
Interest Rate

2023

2023

Floating BA rate plus 1.70%

Prime rate plus 0.70%

(US$450.1 million; 2017 – US$267.0 million)

2023

Floating LIBOR rate plus 1.70%

  US Base Rate Loans  

(US$11.0 million; 2017 – US$16.3 million)

2023

U.S. Prime rate plus 0.70%

Other Debt

  Accounts receivable factoring program(2)

Floating BA Plus 1.63%

  Deferred consideration and other

2019–2023

Non-interest-bearing

2021

2024

2025

2026

6.50%

5.25%

5.125%

7.000%

Senior Unsecured Notes

Senior unsecured notes(4)

Senior unsecured notes(3)

Senior unsecured notes(4)

Senior unsecured notes(5)

Finance Lease Obligations

Finance lease obligation (Note 15)

Total borrowing before deferred financing fees

Deferred financing fees and discounts

Total borrowing before current maturities

Current maturities

Total borrowing

2018

10.0

15.5

508.7

15.1

549.3

1.9

24.0

25.9

—

400.0

370.0

477.3

1,247.3

63.8

1,886.3

(32.5)

1,853.8

(28.8)

1,825.0

2017

31.0

—

335.6

20.5

387.1

2.1

11.1

13.2

200.0

400.0

—

600.0

63.1

1,063.4

(10.6)

1,052.8

(28.7)

1,024.1

(1)	 As	at	December	31,	2018,	Superior	had	$41.9	million	of	outstanding	letters	of	credit	(December	31,	2017	–	$31.7	million)	and	$202.8	million	of	outstanding	financial	

guarantees	on	behalf	of	its	businesses	(December	31,	2017	–	$157	million).	The	fair	value	of	Superior’s	revolving	term	bank	credit	facilities,	other	debt,	letters	of	credit,	
and	financial	guarantees	approximates	their	carrying	value	as	a	result	of	the	market-based	interest	rates,	the	short-term	nature	of	the	underlying	debt	instruments	and	
other	related	factors.	On	June	29,	2018,	Superior	extended	and	restated	its	syndicated	credit	facility	with	ten	lenders,	with	no	changes	to	the	financial	covenants	and	
extending	the	maturity	to	May	8,	2023.	On	June	29,	2018,	the	size	of	the	facility	was	increased	from	$620	million	to	$750	million	and	can	be	expanded	further	up	to	
$1,050	million.

(2)	 Superior	has	entered	into	a	Master	Receivables	Purchase	Agreement	with	a	financial	institution	by	which	it	may	purchase	from	time	to	time,	on	an	uncommitted	revolving	
basis,	100%	interest	in	receivables	from	Superior.	The	maximum	aggregate	amount	of	purchased	receivables	purchased	by	the	financial	institution	under	this	agreement	
and	outstanding	at	any	time	is	limited	to	$15	million.	As	at	December	31,	2018,	the	accounts	receivable	factoring	program	totaled	$2.0	million	(December	31,	2017	–	 
$2.1	million).

(3)	 On	February	27,	2017,	Superior	completed	an	offering	of	$250	million	in	5.25%	senior	unsecured	notes	(the	notes).	The	notes	were	issued	at	par	value	and	mature	on	

February	27,	2024.	The	notes	contain	certain	early	redemption	options	under	which	Superior	has	the	option	to	redeem	all	or	a	portion	of	the	notes	at	various	redemption	
prices,	which	include	the	principal	plus	accrued	and	unpaid	interest,	if	any,	to	the	application	redemption	date.	Interest	is	payable	semi-annually	on	February	27	and	
August	27,	and	commenced	August	27,	2017.	On	October	16,	2017,	Superior	issued	an	additional	$150	million	in	notes	due	on	February	27,	2024.	The	fair	value	is	 
$377.0	million,	based	on	prevailing	market	prices.

(4)		 On	February	1,	2018,	Superior	LP	closed	a	private	placement	of	$220	million	in	senior	unsecured	notes	(the	notes)	bearing	interest	at	5.125%	and	due	August	27,	2025.	
The	notes	contain	certain	early	redemption	options	under	which	Superior	has	the	option	to	redeem	all	or	a	portion	of	the	notes	at	various	redemption	prices,	which	
include	the	principal	plus	accrued	and	unpaid	interest,	if	any,	to	the	application	redemption	date.	The	net	proceeds	redeemed	the	outstanding	principal	balance	of	 
$200	million,	6.50%	senior	unsecured	notes	on	March	8,	2018.	As	a	result	of	redeeming	the	$200	million	6.5%	senior	unsecured	note,	the	company	incurred	a	 
$9.8	million	early	call	premium.	The	early	call	premium	is	included	in	financing	expenses.	On	July	3,	2018,	Superior	issued	an	additional	$150	million	in	notes	at	a	discount	
of	0.92897%	per	note	to	partially	fund	the	acquisition	of	NGL	(see	Note	3).	The	fair	value	is	$339.5	million,	based	on	prevailing	market	prices.

(5)		 On	July	3,	2018,	Superior	also	closed	a	private	placement	of	US$350	million	in	senior	unsecured	notes	(the	notes)	bearing	interest	at	7.000%	and	due	July	15,	2026.	The	
notes	contain	certain	early	redemption	options	under	which	Superior	has	the	option	to	redeem	all	or	a	portion	of	the	notes	at	various	redemption	prices,	which	include	
the	principal	plus	accrued	and	unpaid	interest,	if	any,	to	the	application	redemption	date.	The	proceeds	were	used	to	partially	fund	the	acquisition	of	NGL	(see	Note	3).	
The	fair	value	is	$469.5	million,	based	on	prevailing	market	prices.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  69

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Repayment requirements of borrowing before deferred finance fees are as follows:

Current maturities

Due in 2020

Due in 2021

Due in 2022

Due in 2023

Due in 2024

Subsequent to 2024

Total

15. Leasing Arrangements

Operating Lease Commitments

29.4

19.1

14.6

15.1

553.0

407.8

847.3

1,886.3

Superior has entered into leases on certain vehicles, rail cars, premises and other equipment. Energy Distribution leases have an average life of 

between three and five years with no renewal option included in the contracts. Specialty Chemicals have leases that range from three and 40 years, 

with some leases having a renewal option. There are no restrictions placed upon Superior by entering into these leases.

Future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases are as follows:

Not later than one year

Later than one year and not later than five years

Later than five years

Obligations under Finance Lease

 2018

40.3

103.0

60.0

203.3

2017

34.4

97.9

55.5

187.8

Finance leases relate to fuel distribution vehicles, equipment and office space with lease terms of five to 15 years. Superior has options to purchase 

the assets for a nominal amount at the conclusion of the lease agreements. Superior’s obligations under finance leases are secured by the lessors’ 

title to the leased assets.

The present values of minimum lease payments are as follows:

Not later than one year

Later than one year and not later than five years

Later than five years

Less: future finance charges

Present value of minimum lease payments

Included in the consolidated balance sheets as at December 31:

Current portion of finance lease

Non-current portion of finance lease

Minimum  
Lease Payments

Present Value of Minimum 
Lease Payments

 2018

19.4

44.6

8.8

(9.0)

63.8

2017

20.6

40.9

9.4

(7.8)

63.1

 2018

18.1

38.2

7.5

—

63.8

 2018

18.1

45.7

63.8

2017

19.5

35.0

8.6

—

63.1

2017

19.5

43.6

63.1

70  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

16. Employee Future Benefits

The most recent actuarial valuations of plan assets and the present value of the defined benefit obligation were carried out on December 31, 2018. 

The present value of the defined benefit obligation, and the related current and past service costs, were measured using the projected unit credit 

method.

The principal assumptions used for the purpose of the actuarial valuation were as follows:

Average discount rate

Expected rate of compensation increase

Mortality rate(1)

Defined-benefit Plans

Other Benefit Plans

 2018

3.79%

3.00%

2017

3.50%

3.00%

 2018

3.57%

3.00%

2017

3.50%

3.00%

97%–112%

97%–112%

97%–109%

97%–109%

(1)	 2014	Canadian	Private	Sector	Pensioners’	Mortality	Table	combined	with	mortality	improvement	scale	MI-2017.

Energy Distribution and Specialty Chemicals have defined-benefit and defined contribution pension plans covering most employees. The benefits 

provided under defined-benefit pension plans are based on the individual employee’s years of service and the highest average earnings for a 

specified number of consecutive years. Information about Superior’s defined-benefit and other post-retirement benefit plans as at December 31, 

2018 and December 31, 2017 in aggregate is as follows:

Recognized net (asset) liability arising from defined-benefit obligation

Balance at December 31, 2018

Present value of defined-benefit obligations

Fair value of plan assets

Net (asset) liability arising from defined-benefit obligation

Balance at December 31, 2017

Present value of defined-benefit obligations

Fair value of plan assets

Net (asset) liability arising from defined-benefit obligation

Energy 
Distribution 
Pension Benefit 
Plans

Specialty 
Chemicals  
Pension Benefit 
Plans

35.3

(40.1)

(4.8)

38.8

(43.1)

(4.3)

128.6

(132.5)

(3.9)

134.4

(138.2)

(3.8)

Other  
Benefit  
Plans

19.9

—

19.9

21.0

—

21.0

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  71

 
 
Movements in defined benefit obligations and plan assets:

Movement in the present value of the defined benefit  
  obligation during the year:

Benefit obligation at January 1

Current service cost

Interest cost

Contributions by the plan participants

Actuarial gains (losses)

Benefits paid

Benefit obligation at December 31

Movement in the fair value of the plan assets  
  during the year:

Fair value of plan assets at January 1

Expected return on plan assets

Excess return (shortfall) on plan assets

Contributions by the employer

Contributions by plan participants

Benefits paid

Administration expenses

Fair value of plan assets at December 31

Funded status – plan surplus (deficit)

Assets related to defined-benefit obligation

Liabilities related to defined-benefit obligation

Net asset (obligation) arising from defined-benefit obligation

Non-current net benefit asset (obligation)

Energy Distribution  
Pension Benefit Plans

Specialty Chemicals  
Pension Benefit Plans

Other  
Benefit Plans

 2018

2017

 2018

2017

 2018

2017

38.8

—

1.2

—

(1.2)

(3.5)

35.3

43.1

1.3

(1.2)

0.6

—

(3.5)

(0.1)

40.2

4.9

4.9

—

4.9

4.9

41.9

—

1.4

—

(0.8)

(3.7)

38.8

134.4

126.9

1.9

4.4

—

(6.9)

(5.2)

128.6

2.1

4.7

0.1

6.8

(6.2)

134.4

45.0

138.2

129.9

1.5

0.5

—

—

(3.7)

(0.2)

43.1

4.3

4.3

—

4.3

4.3

4.6

(6.7)

1.9

0.1

(5.2)

(0.4)

4.8

8.4

1.5

0.1

(6.2)

(0.3)

132.5

138.2

3.9

3.9

—

3.9

3.9

3.8

3.8

—

3.8

3.8

21.0

0.3

0.7

—

(1.2)

(0.9)

19.9

—

—

—

1.0

—

22.1

0.3

0.8

—

(1.0)

(1.2)

21.0

—

—

—

1.1

—

(1.0)

(1.1)

—

—

—

—

(19.9)

(19.9)

(19.9)

—

—

—

—

(21.0)

(21.0)

(21.0)

The accrued net pension asset related to the Energy Distribution pension benefit plan on December 31, 2018 was $4.9 million (December 31, 2017 

– $4.3 million), and the expense for 2018 was nil (2017 – $0.1 million). The accrued net pension asset related to the Specialty Chemicals pension 

benefit plan on December 31, 2018 was $3.9 million (2017 – $3.8 million), and the expense for 2018 was $2.2 million (2017 – $2.2 million).

The accrued net benefit obligation related to the total other benefit plans of Energy Distribution and Specialty Chemicals on December 31, 2018 was 

$19.9 million (2017 – $21.0 million), and the expense for 2018 was $1.0 million (year ended December 31, 2017 – $1.2 million). Amounts recognized 

in net earnings in respect of these defined-benefit plans are as follows for the years ended December 31:

Service Cost:

Current service cost

Administrative expense

Net interest expense

Components of defined-benefit costs recognized in net earnings

 2018

2017

2.2

0.6

0.4

3.2

2.4

0.5

0.6

3.5

The service cost, administrative expense and net interest expense related to Energy Distribution and Specialty Chemicals on December 31, 2018 

was $3.2 million (December 31, 2017 – $3.5 million) and is included in selling, distribution and administrative costs.

72  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

The re-measurement of the net defined-benefit liability is included in other comprehensive income. The amounts recognized in accumulated other 

comprehensive income in respect of these benefit plans are as follows:

Actuarial defined-benefit gains (before income taxes)

Cumulative actuarial losses (before income taxes)

Re-measurement on the net benefit obligation:

Cumulative actuarial losses (before income taxes), beginning of the year

Actuarial asset experience gain

Actuarial loss arising from changes in demographic assumptions

Actuarial loss arising from changes in financial assumptions

Actuarial gain arising from changes in experience adjustments

Cumulative actuarial losses (before income taxes), end of the year

 2018

1.1

(1.9)

2018

(3.1)

(8.0)

—

10.0

(0.8)

(1.9)

2017

3.9

(3.1)

2017

(7.0)

8.9

(1.1)

(7.7)

3.8

(3.1)

Significant actuarial assumptions for the determination of the accrued defined-benefit obligation are discount rate, compensation increase, 

mortality scale and trend rate. The sensitivity analyses below have been determined based on reasonably possible changes of the respective 

assumptions occurring as at December 31, 2018, while holding all other assumptions constant.

Discount Rate

A 1% change in the discount rate would result in a change to the accrued defined-benefit obligation related to Energy Distribution of $3.4 million  

at December 31, 2018 (December 31, 2017 – $4.4 million) and a change to the current service expense of $0.1 million at December 31, 2018 

(December 31, 2017 – $0.1 million). A 1% change in the discount rate would result in a change to the accrued defined-benefit obligation related to 

Specialty Chemicals of $19.7 million at December 31, 2018 (December 31, 2017 – $22.1 million) and a change to the current service expense of  

$1.0 million at December 31, 2018 (December 31, 2017 – $1.0 million).

Compensation Increase

A 1% change in the salary would result in a change to the accrued defined-benefit obligation related to Energy Distribution of nil at December 31, 

2018 (December 31, 2017 – nil) and a change to the current service expense of nil at December 31, 2018 (December 31, 2017 – nil). A 1% change in 

salary would result in a change to the accrued defined-benefit obligation related to Specialty Chemicals of $1.6 million at December 31, 2018  

(2017 – $1.6 million) and a change to the current service expense of $0.2 million at December 31, 2018 (2017 – $0.2 million).

Mortality Scale

A 10% change in the mortality scale would result in a change to the accrued defined-benefit obligation related to Energy Distribution of $1.8 million 

at December 31, 2018 (2017 – $1.8 million) and a change to the current service expense of $0.1 million at December 31, 2018 (2017 – $0.1 million).  

A 10% change in the mortality scale would result in a change to the accrued defined-benefit obligation related to Specialty Chemicals of $3.4 million 

at December 31, 2018 (2017 – $3.4 million) and a change to the current service expense of $0.2 million at December 31, 2018 (2017 – $0.2 million).

Trend Rate

A 1% change in the trend rate would result in a change to the accrued defined-benefit obligation related to Energy Distribution of $0.4 million at 

December 31, 2018 (2017 – $0.4 million) and a change to the current service expense of nil at December 31, 2018 (2017 – nil). A 1% change in the 

trend rate would result in a change to the accrued defined-benefit obligation liability related to Specialty Chemicals of $0.9 million at December 31, 

2018 (2017 – $1.2 million) and a change to the current service expense of $0.1 million at December 31, 2018 (2017 – $0.1 million).

The sensitivity presented above may not be representative of the actual change in the accrued defined-benefit obligation as it is unlikely that the 

change in assumptions would occur in isolation, as some of the assumptions may be correlated.

The present value of the defined-benefit obligation was calculated using the projected unit credit as at December 31, 2018, which is the same as 

that applied in calculating the accrued defined-benefit obligation recognized in the consolidated balance sheets.

There were no changes in the methods or assumptions used in preparing the sensitivity analysis from prior years.

The average duration of the net benefit obligation related to Energy Distribution is 7.6 years at December 31, 2018 (2017 – 8.8 years) and related to 

Specialty Chemicals is 13.2 years at December 31, 2018 (2017 – 14.1 years).

At December 31, 2018, Superior expects to make a contribution to the Energy Distribution Pension Benefit Plans of $1.4 million and to the Specialty 

Chemicals Pension Benefit Plans of $2.0 million during 2019.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  73

 
The fair values of plan assets as at December 31, 2018, by major asset category, are as follows:

Canadian Equities

Foreign Equities

Fixed Income

Total

Energy Distribution  
Pension Benefit Plans

Specialty Chemicals  
Pension Benefit Plans

Level 2

Percentage

Level 2

Percentage

3.9

—

36.3

40.2

9.7%

0.0%

90.3%

100%

36.0

36.2

60.2

132.4

27.2%

27.4%

45.4%

100%

The fair values of plan assets as at December 31, 2017, by major asset category, are as follows:

Canadian and U.S. Equities

Foreign Equities

Foreign Income

Fixed Income

Total

Energy Distribution  
Pension Benefit Plans

Specialty Chemicals  
Pension Benefit Plans

Level 2

Percentage

Level 2

Percentage

4.0

—

0.2

38.9

43.1

9.2%

—

0.4%

90.4%

100%

37.4

36.9

—

63.9

138.2

27.1%

26.7%

—

46.2%

100%

The actual returns on Energy Distribution and Specialty Chemicals plan assets in 2018 were 0.1% (2017 – 4.7%) and -1.8% (2017 – 10.0%), 

respectively.

As at December 31, 2018, the asset-matching strategic choices that are formulated in the actuarial and Superior’s Statement of Investment Policy 

(SIPP) of the total defined-benefit plan assets are:

Canadian Equities

Global Equities

Fixed Income

(1)	 Based	on	Superior’s	SIPP.

Energy Distribution 
Pension Benefit 
Plans

Specialty 
Chemicals  
Pension Benefit 
Plans

Range(1)(2)

Range(1)(2)

Other 

Range(1)(2)

—

—

25.0%–35.0%

7.5%–17.5%

25.0%–35.0%

7.5%–17.5%

100%

35.0%–45.0% 65.0%–85.0%

(2)	 Energy	Distribution	and	Specialty	Chemicals’	SIPPs	do	not	provide	ranges	for	U.S.	and	Foreign	Equities;	instead,	they	provide	in	aggregate	ranges	classified	as	global	

equities.

As at December 31, 2017, the asset-matching strategic choices that are formulated in the actuarial and Superior’s SIPP of the total defined-benefit 

plan assets are:

Canadian Equities

Global Equities

Fixed Income

(1)   Based	on	Superior’s	SIPP.

Energy Distribution 
Pension Benefit 
Plans

Specialty 
Chemicals  
Pension Benefit 
Plans

Range(1)(2)(3)

Range(1)(2)

Other 

Range(1)(2)

—

—

25.0%–35.0%

7.5%–17.5%

25.0%–35.0%

7.5%–17.5%

100%

35.0%–45.0%

65.0%–85.0%

(2)		 Energy	Distribution	and	Specialty	Chemicals’	SIPPs	do	not	provide	ranges	for	U.S.	and	Foreign	Equities;	instead,	they	provide	in	aggregate	ranges	classified	as	global	

equities.

(3)	 Energy	Distribution	moved	to	100%	fixed	income	in	2015	to	derisk	the	plans	given	the	maturity	and	low	number	of	active	participants.

74  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

17. Financial Instruments

IFRS requires disclosure around fair value and specifies a hierarchy of valuation techniques based on whether the inputs to those valuation 

techniques are observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs 

reflect Superior’s market assumptions. These two types of input create the following fair value hierarchy:

 »

 »

 »

Level I – Quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments.

Level II – Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not 

active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets.

Level III – Valuations derived from valuation techniques in which one or more significant inputs or significant value drivers are unobservable.

The fair value of a financial instrument is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction 

between market participants at the measurement date. Fair values are determined by reference to quoted bid or ask prices, as appropriate, in the 

most advantageous active market for that instrument to which Superior has immediate access (Level 1). Where bid and ask prices are unavailable, 

Superior uses the closing price of the instrument’s most recent transaction. In the absence of an active market, Superior estimates fair values based 

on prevailing market rates (bid and ask prices, as appropriate) for instruments with similar characteristics and risk profiles or internal or external 

valuation models, such as discounted cash flow analysis using, to the extent possible, observable market-based inputs (Level 2). Superior uses 

internally developed methodologies and unobservable inputs to determine the fair value of some financial instruments when required (Level 3).

Fair values determined using valuation models require assumptions concerning the amount and timing of estimated future cash flows and 

discount rates. In determining those assumptions, Superior looks primarily to available readily observable external market inputs including forecast 

commodity price curves, interest rate yield curves, currency rates and price and rate volatilities as applicable.

All financial and non-financial derivatives are designated as held-for-trading upon their initial recognition.

Assets

Foreign currency forward contracts, net sale

Natural gas financial swaps – Alberta Energy Company (AECO)

Cross-currency interest rate exchange agreements

Propane, diesel, butane and heating oil wholesale purchase  

and sale contracts, net sale – Energy Distribution

Total assets

Liabilities

Natural gas financial swaps – AECO

Foreign currency forward contracts, net sale

Equity derivative contract

Propane, diesel, butane and heating oil wholesale purchase  

and sale contracts, net sale – Energy Distribution

WTI wholesale purchase and sale contracts, net sale –  

Energy Distribution

Total liabilities

Total net assets

Current portion of assets

Current portion of liabilities

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

As at December 31, 2018

1.7

—

7.1

—

8.8

—

35.8

—

—

—

35.8

(27.0)

8.5

20.8

—

1.5

—

8.9

10.4

1.5

—

4.3

22.0

0.3

28.1

(17.7)

9.7

25.1

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

1.7

1.5

7.1

8.9

19.2

1.5

35.8

4.3

22.0

0.3

63.9

(44.7)

18.2

45.9

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  75

 
 
 
 
Assets

Foreign currency forward contracts

Natural gas financial swaps – AECO

Propane, diesel, butane and heating oil wholesale purchase  

and sale contracts – Energy Distribution

Total assets

Liabilities

Natural gas financial swaps – AECO

Foreign currency forward contracts

Cross-currency interest rate exchange agreements

Equity derivative contract

Propane and butane wholesale purchase and sale contracts – 

Energy Distribution

WTI wholesale purchase and sale contracts – Energy Distribution

Total liabilities

Total net liability (assets)

Current portion of assets

Current portion of liabilities

As at December 31, 2017

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

11.6

—

—

11.6

—

8.1

2.7

—

—

—

10.8

0.8

4.9

8.2

—

3.6

24.9

28.5

3.6

—

—

0.9

10.8

0.2

15.5

13.0

25.1

13.6

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

Total

11.6

3.6

24.9

40.1

3.6

8.1

2.7

0.9

10.8

0.2

26.3

13.8

30.0

21.8

The following table outlines quantitative information about how the fair values of these financial and non-financial assets and liabilities are 

determined, including valuation techniques and inputs used:

Description

Level 1 fair value hierarchy:

Notional

Term Effective Rates

Valuation Technique(s) and Key Input(s)

Foreign currency forward contracts, net sale

US$ 504.6

2019 – 2022

Cross currency interest rate exchange agreements

US$ 212.0

2018

1.28

1.30

Quoted bid prices in the active market.

Quoted bid prices in the active market.

Level 2 fair value hierarchy:

Equity derivative contracts

CAD$ 20.4

2019 – 2021

$12.65

Heating oil, diesel and propane wholesale purchase  
and sale contracts, net sale – Energy Distribution

55.58 USG (1) 2018 – 2020

$0.62 – $2.18

(1)  Millions	of	United	States	gallons	(USG)	purchased.

Discounted cash flow – Future cash 
flows are estimated based on equity 
derivative contracts.
Quoted bid prices for similar products  
in the active market.

Superior’s realized and unrealized financial instrument gains (losses) for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 are as follows:

Description

Natural gas financial swaps – AECO

Foreign currency forward contracts, net sale

Cross-currency interest rate swaps

Equity derivative contracts

Propane, WTI, butane, heating oil and diesel wholesale purchase  

and sale contracts – Energy Distribution

Fixed-price electricity purchase agreements – Specialty Chemicals

Total (losses) gains on financial and non-financial derivatives

Foreign currency translation of borrowings

Change in fair value of debenture-embedded derivative

Total (losses) gains

Year Ended December 31, 2018

Year Ended December 31, 2017

Realized Gain 
(Loss)

Unrealized Gain 
(Loss)

Realized Gain 
(Loss)

Unrealized Gain 
(Loss)

—

(4.1)

—

0.1

(4.3)

—

(8.3)

—

—

(8.3)

—

(37.7)

9.8

(3.4)

(27.8)

—

(59.1)

(27.2)

—

(86.3)

—

0.8

—

0.2

8.7

(0.4)

9.3

—

—

9.3

0.4

27.5

(5.5)

(0.9)

4.6

—

26.1

5.5

(3.9)

27.7

Realized gains or losses on financial and non-financial derivatives and foreign currency translation gains or losses on the revaluation of Canadian 

domiciled U.S. denominated working capital have been classified on the statements of net earnings and total comprehensive income based on the 

underlying nature of the consolidated financial statement line item and/or the economic exposure being managed.

76  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
The following summarizes Superior’s classification and measurement of financial assets and liabilities:

Financial Assets

Cash

Trade and other receivables

Derivative assets

Notes and finance lease receivable

Financial liabilities

Trade and other payables

Dividends and interest payable

Borrowing

Convertible unsecured subordinated debentures

Derivative liabilities

Offsetting of financial instruments

Classification

Measurement

Loans and receivables

Loans and receivables

FVTPL

Loans and receivables

Other liabilities

Other liabilities

Other liabilities

Other liabilities

FVTPL

Amortized cost

Amortized cost

Fair Value

Amortized cost

Amortized cost

Amortized cost

Amortized cost

Amortized cost

Fair Value

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount reported on the consolidated balance sheets when Superior currently has a legally 

enforceable right to set-off the recognized amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or realize the asset and settle the liability 

simultaneously. In the normal course of business, Superior enters into various master netting agreements or other similar arrangements that do 

not meet the criteria for offsetting, but do, however, still allow for the related amount to be set-off in certain circumstances, such as bankruptcy 

or the termination of contracts. As at December 31, 2018, Superior has recorded $17.1 million (December 31, 2017 – nil) against other current 

financial liabilities. This is a deposit representing the margin requirement required as a result of the fair value of propane, WTI, butane, heating oil 

and diesel wholesale purchase and sale contracts being in a liability position.

Financial Instruments – Risk Management

Market Risk

Derivative and non-financial derivatives are used by Superior to manage its exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, interest 

rates and commodity prices. Superior assesses the inherent risks of these instruments by grouping financial and non-financial derivatives 

according to the exposures these instruments mitigate. Superior’s policy is not to use derivative or non-financial derivative instruments for 

speculative purposes. Superior does not formally designate its derivatives as hedges and, as a result, Superior does not apply hedge accounting 

and is required to designate its derivatives and non-financial derivatives as held-for-trading.

At the time Superior Energy Management was divested, the Company entered into financial swaps to offset any financial swaps that could not 

be transferred to the buyer. As a result, the Energy Distribution segment has nominal exposure to any losses or gains related to the remaining 

natural gas and electricity financial swaps.

Energy Distribution enters into various propane forward purchase and sale agreements to manage the economic exposure of its wholesale 

customer supply contracts. Energy Distribution monitors its fixed-price propane positions on a daily basis to monitor compliance with established 

risk management policies.

Energy Distribution maintains a substantially balanced fixed-price propane position in relation to its wholesale customer supply commitments.

Superior, on behalf of its operating divisions, enters into foreign currency forward contracts to manage the economic exposure of its operations 

to movements in foreign currency exchange rates. Energy Distribution contracts a portion of its fixed-price natural gas, and propane purchases 

and sales in U.S. dollars and enters into forward U.S. dollar purchase contracts to create an effective Canadian dollar fixed-price purchase cost.

Superior enters into U.S. dollar forward sales contracts on an ongoing basis to mitigate the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations on sales 

margins on production from its Canadian plants that is sold in U.S. dollars. Interest expense on Superior’s U.S. dollar debt is also used to mitigate 

the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations.

Superior manages its overall liquidity risk in relation to its general funding requirements by utilizing a mix of short-term and longer-term debt 

instruments. Superior reviews its mix of short-term and longer-term debt instruments on an ongoing basis to ensure it is able to meet its liquidity 

requirements.

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  77

 
 
Credit Risk

Superior utilizes a variety of counterparties in relation to its derivative and non-financial derivative instruments in order to mitigate its counterparty 

risk. Superior assesses the creditworthiness of its significant counterparties at the inception and throughout the term of a contract. Superior is also 

exposed to customer credit risk. Energy Distribution deals with a large number of small customers, thereby reducing this risk. Energy Distribution 

actively monitors the creditworthiness of its commercial customers. Specialty Chemicals, due to the nature of its operations, sells its products to a 

relatively small number of customers. Specialty Chemicals mitigates its customer credit risk by actively monitoring the overall creditworthiness of 

its customers. Overall, Superior’s credit quality is enhanced by its portfolio of customers, which is diversified across geographical (primarily Canada 

and the United States) and end-use (primarily commercial, residential and industrial) markets.

Allowances for doubtful accounts and past due receivables are reviewed by Superior as at each balance sheet date. Superior updates its estimate 

of the allowance for doubtful accounts based on the evaluation of the recoverability of trade receivables with each customer base, taking into 

account historical collection trends of past due accounts and current economic conditions. Trade receivables are written off once it is determined 

they are uncollectible.

Liquidity Risk

Liquidity risk is the risk that Superior cannot meet a demand for cash or fund an obligation as it comes due. Liquidity risk also includes the risk of 

not being able to liquidate assets in a timely manner at a reasonable price.

To ensure it is able to react to contingencies and investment opportunities quickly, Superior maintains sources of liquidity at the corporate and 

subsidiary levels. The main sources of liquidity are cash and other financial assets, the undrawn committed revolving term bank credit facility, 

equity markets and debenture markets.

Superior is subject to the risks associated with debt financing, including the ability to refinance indebtedness at maturity. Superior believes these 

risks are mitigated through the use of long-term debt secured by high quality assets, maintaining debt levels that in management’s opinion are 

appropriate, and by diversifying maturities over an extended period. Superior also seeks to include in its agreements terms that protect it from 

liquidity issues of counterparties that might otherwise affect liquidity.

Equity Price Risk

Equity price risk is the risk of volatility in earnings as a result of volatility in Superior’s share price. Superior has equity price risk exposure to shares 

that it issues under various forms of share-based compensation programs, which affect earnings when outstanding units are revalued at each 

reporting period. Superior uses equity derivatives to manage volatility derived from its share-based compensation program.

As at December 31, 2018, Superior estimates that a 10% increase in its share price would have resulted in a $1.6 million increase in earnings due to 

the revaluation of equity derivative contracts.

Superior’s contractual obligations associated with its financial liabilities are as follows:

Borrowing

US$ foreign currency forward sales contracts

Natural gas, butane, propane, heating oil  

2019

29.3

—

2020

19.1

213.0

2021

14.6

161.1

2022

15.1

78.0

2023

553.0

52.5

and diesel purchases

4.9

106.9

9.6

—

—

2024 and 
thereafter

Total

1,255.2

1,886.3

—

—

504.6

121.4

Superior’s contractual obligations are considered normal-course operating commitments and do not include the impact of mark-to-market fair 

values on financial and non-financial derivatives. Superior expects to fund these obligations through a combination of cash flows from operations, 

proceeds on revolving term bank credit facilities and proceeds on the issuance of share capital. Superior’s financial instruments’ sensitivities as at 

December 31, 2018, are consistent with those disclosed in Superior’s 2017 annual consolidated financial statements.

78  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
Superior’s financial instruments’ sensitivities to changes in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and various commodity prices and the 

resulting impact to net earnings are detailed below:

Impact to net earnings of a $0.01 change in the CDN$ dollar compared to the US$ dollar

Impact to net earnings of a 0.5% change in interest rates

Impact to net earnings of a $0.04/litre change in the price of heating oil

Impact to net earnings of a $0.04/litre change in the price of propane

2018

+/- 0.4

+/- (1.8)

+/- 0.3

+/- (9.7)

The calculation of Superior’s sensitivity to changes in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and various commodity prices represent the 

change in fair value of the financial instrument without consideration of the value of the underlying variable, such as the underlying customer 

contracts. The recognition of the sensitivities identified above would have affected Superior’s unrealized gain or loss on financial instruments and 

would not have had a material impact on Superior’s cash flow from operations.

18. Income Taxes

Consistent with prior periods, Superior recognizes a provision for income taxes for its subsidiaries that are subject to current and deferred income 

taxes, including Canada, United States, Chilean and Luxembourg income taxes.

Total income taxes are different from the amount computed by applying the corporate Canadian federal-provincial enacted statutory rate for 2018 

of 26.98% (2017 – 26.86%). The statutory rates reflect enacted provincial tax rate increases. The reasons for these differences are as follows:

Net loss

Income tax (recovery) expense

Net (loss) earnings before taxes

Computed income tax expense

Changes in effective foreign tax rates

Changes in future income tax rates

Non-deductible costs and other

Change in estimate

Recognition of a previously unrecognized asset

Settlement of corporate conversion transaction

Other

Income tax (recovery) expense

Income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 is comprised of the following:

Current income tax expense

Current income tax charge

Adjustments in respect of previous year

Total current income tax expense

Deferred income tax expense

Relating to origination and reversal of temporary difference

Relating to changes in tax rates or the imposition of new taxes

Adjustments in respect of previous year

Recognition of previously unrecognized assets

Settlement of corporate conversion transaction

Other

Total deferred income tax (recovery) expense

Income tax (recovery) expense

 2018

(34.0)

(0.3)

(34.3)

(9.9)

(0.1)

0.1

7.1

1.9

(1.7)

—

2.3

(0.3)

2017

(27.9)

143.7

115.8

31.1

1.0

(4.6)

(1.9)

1.0

(0.2)

119.4

(2.1)

143.7

 2018

2017

4.8

(2.9)

1.9

(3.2)

0.1

4.8

(1.7)

—

(2.2)

(2.2)

(0.3)

5.3

(2.0)

3.3

22.5

(4.6)

3.1

—

119.4

—

140.4

143.7

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  79

 
Deferred tax for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 is comprised of the following:

2018

Provisions

Finance leases

Borrowing

Financing fees

Investment tax credits, net of tax

Non-capital losses

Property, plant and equipment

Reserves and employee benefits

Scientific research and development

Unrealized foreign exchange gains (losses)

Other

Total

2017(1)

Provisions

Finance leases

Borrowing

Financing fees

Investment tax credits, net of tax

Non-capital losses

Property, plant and equipment

Reserves and employee benefits

Scientific research and development

Unrealized foreign exchange gains (losses)

Other

Total

(Credited) 
Charged to 
Net Earnings 
(Continuing)

(Credited) 
Charged 
to Other 
Comprehensive 
Loss/Equity

Opening
 Balance(1)

Acquisitions

Exchange 
Differences

Closing 
Balance

7.0

(1.0)

(8.0)

4.4

(0.2)

85.2

(81.7)

(4.3)

(14.8)

15.3

0.2

2.1

—

—

—

5.0

—

—

—

2.4

—

—

—

7.4

—

—

—

—

—

—

(6.8)

—

—

—

—

1.2

0.5

0.1

—

—

17.5

(22.2)

0.6

—

0.4

0.2

(6.8)

(1.7)

26.2

17.2

(7.3)

11.5

64.2

141.3

(318.7)

16.1

61.3

12.2

—

24.0

(Credited) 
Charged to 
Net Earnings 
(Continuing)

(Credited) 
Charged 
to Other 
Comprehensive 
Loss

Acquisitions

Exchange 
Differences

Closing 
Balance

10.5

(1.7)

2.7

1.0

(40.5)

(19.0)

3.6

2.2

(92.0)

(7.4)

0.2

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

(1.0)

—

—

—

0.4

—

—

—

—

—

(69.5)

0.1

—

—

—

231.8

(140.4)

(1.0)

(69.0)

18.0

17.7

0.6

2.1

64.4

38.6

(208.0)

17.4

76.1

(3.5)

(0.4)

23.0

Opening 
Balance

7.2

21.0

(2.0)

1.1

104.9

63.0

(151.8)

16.8

168.1

4.0

(0.5)

The net deferred income tax asset relates to the following tax jurisdictions as at December 31, 2018 and 2017:

Canada

United States

Chile

Total net deferred income tax asset

(1)	 2017	balances	have	been	restated

Superior has available to carry forward the following as at December 31, 2018 and 2017:

Canadian non-capital losses

Canadian scientific research expenditures

Canadian capital losses

United States non-capital losses

Canadian federal and provincial investment tax credits

The Canadian scientific research expenditures and the Canadian capital losses may be carried forward indefinitely.

80  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

(0.1)

(1.6)

(0.1)

—

—

(5.4)

9.7

(0.7)

—

(0.1)

(0.1)

1.6

 2018

47.9

(16.6)

(7.3)

24.0

 2018

8.0

227.5

2.5

515.3

88.2

18.0

17.7

0.6

2.1

64.4

38.6

(208.0)

17.4

76.1

(3.5)

(0.4)

23.0

2017(1)

39.5

(9.1)

(7.4)

23.0

2017

4.5

282.6

4.8

142.6

88.2

Non-capital loss carry forwards available for future years

As at December 31, 2018, Superior had non-capital loss carry-forwards available to reduce future years’ taxable income for Canada and United 

States, which expire as follows:

2019

2020

2021

Thereafter

Total

 United States

Canada

—

—

—

515.3

515.3

—

—

—

8.0

8.0

Management believes there will be sufficient taxable profits in the future to offset these losses.

Canadian federal and provincial investment tax credits available for future years

As at December 31, 2018, Superior had Canadian federal and provincial investment tax credits available to reduce future years’ taxable income, 

which expire as follows:

2019

2020

2021

2022

Thereafter

Total

In Chile, the local tax laws provide that any profits distributed outside of Chile be subject to a 35% tax.

As at December 31, 2018 and 2017, Superior had the following balances in respect of which no deferred tax asset was recognized:

U.S. interest deduction – 163(j)

Canadian capital losses

Total unrecognized deferred tax assets

 2018

8.2

2.5

10.7

Canada

—

0.6

18.6

8.7

60.3

88.2

2017

—

4.8

4.8

Deferred tax assets have not been recognized for the above temporary differences as it is not probable that the respective entities to which they 

relate will generate sufficient future taxable income or capital gains against which to utilize the temporary differences.

19. Total Equity

Superior is authorized to issue an unlimited number of common shares and an unlimited number of preferred shares. The holders of common 

shares are entitled to dividends if, as and when, declared by the Board of Directors; to one vote per share at shareholders’ meetings; and upon 

liquidation, dissolution or winding up of Superior to receive pro rata the remaining property and assets of Superior, subject to the rights of any 

shares having priority over the common shares, of which none is outstanding.

Balance, December 31, 2017 and 2016

Issuance of common shares

Balance, December 31, 2018

Issued Number 
of Common 
Shares (Millions)

142.8

32.1

174.9

Share Capital

$  1,953.5

$ 

386.4

$  2,339.9

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  81

 
 
Issuance of common shares

On June 8, 2018, Superior completed a public offering of 32 million subscription receipts at a price of $12.50 per subscription receipt, raising 

gross proceeds of $400 million. On July 13, 2018, after completion of the NGL acquisition, the Company exchanged the issued and outstanding 

subscription receipts into 32 million Common Shares of the Company along with a cash payment of $0.06 per subscription receipt less withholding 

tax which is equal to the aggregate amount of dividends per share paid since the issuance of the subscription receipts.

On September 27, 2018, Superior entered into an at-the-market equity distribution agreement to enable the sale of common shares from treasury 

having aggregate gross proceeds of up to $100 million at prevailing trading prices. Superior intends to use the net proceeds to fund tuck-in 

acquisitions and repay indebtedness under Superior’s credit facilities. During the quarter, Superior issued 29,300 common shares at an average 

price of $12.76 per share for net proceeds of $0.4 million through this program. Superior incurs a 2% commission issuing shares through this 

program.

Total gross proceeds during the year was $400 million less share issue costs of $19.0 million and net of a future tax recovery of $5.0 million.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

Accumulated other comprehensive income

Currency translation adjustment

  Balance, beginning of the period

  Unrealized foreign currency losses on translation of foreign operations

  Balance, end of the period

Actuarial defined benefits

  Balance, beginning of the period

  Actuarial defined benefit gains

Income tax expense on other comprehensive income

  Balance, end of the period

Accumulated derivative losses

Accumulated other comprehensive income, end of the period

Other Capital Disclosure 

Additional Capital Disclosure

 2018

2017

98.9

81.7

180.6

(2.4)

1.1

(0.3)

(1.6)

(7.1)

171.9

123.6

(24.7)

98.9

(5.2)

3.8

(1.0)

(2.4)

(7.1)

89.4

Superior’s objectives when managing capital are: (i) to maintain a flexible capital structure to preserve its ability to meet its financial obligations, 

including potential obligations from acquisitions; and (ii) to safeguard its assets while maximizing the growth of its businesses and returns to its 

shareholders.

In the management of capital, Superior includes shareholders’ equity (excluding accumulated other comprehensive income, current and long-term 

borrowing, and convertible unsecured subordinated debentures). Superior manages its capital structure and makes adjustments in light of changes 

in economic conditions and the nature of the underlying assets. In order to maintain or adjust the capital structure, Superior may adjust the amount 

of dividends to shareholders, issue additional share capital, conduct additional borrowing or issue convertible unsecured subordinated debentures, 

or conduct new borrowing or issue convertible unsecured subordinated debentures with different characteristics.

Superior monitors its capital based on the ratio of senior debt outstanding to net earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and 

other non-cash expenses (EBITDA), as defined by its revolving term credit facility, and the ratio of total debt outstanding to EBITDA. Superior’s 

reference to EBITDA as defined by its revolving term credit facility may be referred to as compliance EBITDA in its other public reports.

Superior is subject to various financial covenants in its credit facility agreements, including senior debt, total debt to EBITDA ratio and restricted 

payments tests, which are measured on a quarterly basis. As at December 31, 2018, Superior was in compliance with all of its financial covenants.

Superior’s financial objectives and strategy related to managing its capital as described above remained unchanged from the prior year. Superior 

believes that its debt to EBITDA ratios are within reasonable limits, in light of Superior’s size, the nature of its businesses and its capital management 

objectives.

82  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
20. Deficit

Balance, beginning of the year

Net earnings

Dividends declared

Change in accounting policy

Balance, end of the year

 2018

(1,266.9)

(34.0)

(114.4)

(7.6)

2017

(1,136.2)

(27.9)

(102.8)

—

(1,422.9)

(1,266.9)

21. Supplemental Disclosure of Consolidated Statement of Total Comprehensive Income

Revenues

  Revenue from products

  Revenue from the rendering of services

  Rental revenue

  Realized (loss) gain on derivative financial instruments

Cost of sales (includes products and services)

  Cost of products and services

  Depreciation included in cost of sales

  Realized gain (loss) on derivative financial instruments

Selling, distribution and administrative costs

  Other selling, distribution and administrative costs

  Restructuring, transaction and other costs

Employee future benefit expense

Employee costs

Vehicle operating costs

Facilities maintenance expense

  Depreciation included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

  Amortization of intangible assets

  Net (loss) earnings from Canwest Propane

  Gain on disposal of assets

  Realized (loss) gain on long-term incentive program (LTIP)

  Realized gain (loss) on the translation of U.S.-denominated net working capital

Finance expense

Interest on borrowing

Interest on convertible unsecured subordinated debentures

Interest on obligations under finance leases

Loss on debenture redemption

  Unwinding of discount on debentures, borrowing and decommissioning liabilities

  Realized gain on derivatives

Unrealized (loss) gain on derivative financial instruments

Net (loss) earnings before taxes

Income tax (expense) recovery

Net loss

 2018

2017

2,614.1

2,293.8

81.8

41.8

(11.0)

57.8

25.7

7.7

2,726.7

2,385.0

(1,735.9)

(1,598.9)

(53.6)

0.9

(52.3)

1.6

(1,788.6)

(1,649.6)

(248.3)

(39.5)

(2.5)

(296.4)

(60.8)

(11.4)

(98.3)

(47.2)

—

2.2

(0.1)

2.0

(218.4)

(33.1)

(2.8)

(226.8)

(43.8)

(4.7)

(51.0)

(9.6)

1.2

1.1

(0.9)

(4.7)

(800.3)

(593.5)

(67.4)

—

(2.7)

(9.8)

(10.4)

4.5

(85.8)

(86.3)

(34.3)

0.3

(34.0)

(35.5)

(5.1)

(3.2)

—

(10.0)

—

(53.8)

27.7

115.8

(143.7)

(27.9)

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  83

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
22. Net Earnings (Loss) per Share

Net earnings (loss) per share computation

  Net (loss) earnings for the year

  Weighted average shares outstanding (millions)

Net (loss) earnings per share

23. Disaggregation of Revenue

 2018

2017

$  (34.0)

$  (27.9)

158.1

142.8

$  (0.22)

$  (0.20)

Revenue is disaggregated by primary geographical market, type of customer and major product and services lines. The table also includes a 

reconciliation of the disaggregated revenue with the Company’s reportable segments.

For the twelve months ended December 31, 2018

Energy Distribution

Revenue from sale of products

Revenue from services

Tank and equipment rental

Derivative financial instruments loss

Total revenue

Revenue from sale of chemicals

Revenue from services

Total revenue

For the twelve months ended December 31, 2017

Revenue from sale of products

Revenue from services

Tank and equipment rental

Derivative financial instruments gain

Total revenue

Revenue from sale of chemicals

Revenue from services

Total revenue

Canada

893.1

46.9

35.3

(6.4)

968.9

Canada

156.1

0.7

156.8

Canada

735.0

33.4

25.7

7.2

801.3

Canada

145.9

0.6

146.5

USA

1,047.1

32.3

6.5

3.9

1,089.8

USA

419.4

1.7

421.1

USA

923.9

22.9

—

—

946.8

USA

388.1

0.7

388.8

Other

—

—

—

—

—

Total

1,940.2

79.2

41.8

(2.5)

2,058.7

Specialty Chemicals

Other

98.5

0.1

98.6

Other

—

—

—

—

—

Other

100.9

0.2

101.1

Total

673.9

2.6

676.5

Energy Distribution

Total

1,658.9

56.3

25.7

7.2

1,748.1

Specialty Chemicals

Total

634.9

1.5

636.4

84  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

24. Share-Based Compensation

Restricted and Performance Shares

Under Superior’s long-term incentive program, restricted shares (RSs), performance shares (PSs) and/or director shares (DSs) can be granted to 

directors, senior officers and employees of Superior. All three types of shares entitle the holder to receive cash compensation in relation to the 

value of a specified number of underlying notional shares. RSs vest evenly over three years from the grant date, except for RSs issued to directors 

which vest three years from the grant date. Payments are made on the anniversaries of the RSs to the holders entitled to receive them on the 

basis of a cash payment equal to the value of the underlying notional shares. PSs vest three years from the grant date and their notional value 

depends on Superior’s performance as compared to established benchmarks. DSs vest immediately on the grant date and payments are made 

to directors once they resign or retire based on the number of notional shares outstanding and the value of the shares on that date. Employee 

compensation expense for these plans is charged against net earnings or loss over the vesting period of the RSs, PSs, and DSs. The amount payable 

by Superior in respect of RSs, PSs and DSs changes as a result of dividends and share price movements. The fair value of all the RSs, PSs and DSs is 

equal to Superior’s common share market price and the divisional notional share price if related to a divisional plan. In the event of an employee 

termination, any unvested shares are forfeited on that date.

For the year ended December 31, 2018, total compensation expense related to RSs, PSs and DSs was $5.6 million (2017 – $5.2 million). Exercises 

during the year ended December 31, 2018 under the long-term incentive plan were completed at a weighted average price of $11.97 per share 

(2017 – $12.86 per share) for RSs, and $13.06 per share (2017 – $12.61 per share) for PSs. For the year ended December 31, 2018, the total carrying 

amount of the liability related to RSs, PSs and DSs was $16.0 million (2017 – $15.5 million).

The movement in the number of shares under the long-term incentive program was as follows: 

Opening number of shares

Granted

Performance factor   

adjustment

Dividends reinvested

Forfeited

Exercised

RSs

577,826

311,878

—

41,108

PSs

980,935

311,878

31,262

67,768

DSs

2018
Total

444,646

2,003,407

68,983

692,739

—

31,262

27,024

135,900

(39,992)

(296,123)

(53,399)

(389,514)

RSs

507,413

314,071

—

35,034

(44,725)

PSs

885,068

314,071

DSs

2017
Total

349,496

1,741,977

73,320

701,462

—

—

—

66,415

21,830

—

123,279

(44,725)

(518,586)

—

—

(267,468)

(178,095)

—

(445,563)

(233,967)

(284,619)

Ending number of shares

623,352

917,625

487,254

2,028,231

577,826

980,935

444,646

2,003,407

Superior entered into equity derivative contracts in order to manage the volatility and costs associated with its share-based compensation plans. As 

at December 31, 2018, Superior had outstanding notional values of $20.4 million of equity derivative contracts at an average share price of $12.65. 

See Note 17 for further details.

25. Supplemental Disclosure of Non-Cash Operating Working Capital Changes

Changes in non-cash working capital

Trade receivables and other

Inventories

Trade and other payables and contract liabilities

Other, including foreign exchange

Years Ended December 31

 2018

(40.8)

(15.8)

20.9

15.2

(20.5)

2017

(80.1)

(43.5)

72.2

(9.8)

(61.2)

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  85

 
 
Changes in liabilities arising from financing activities

Balance as of January 1

Net proceeds (repayment) of revolving term bank credits and other debt

Non-cash finance expense

Deferred acquisition payments

Finance lease additions

Debt issue costs

Other, including foreign exchange

Balance as of December 31

 2018

2017

1,052.8

738.9

6.7

12.9

16.0

(17.9)

44.4

528.8

516.4

9.4

5.0

24.9

(7.2)

(24.5)

1,853.8

1,052.8

26. Related-Party Transactions and Agreements

Transactions between Superior and its subsidiaries, which are related parties, have been eliminated on consolidation and are not disclosed in  

this note.

Remuneration of directors and other key management personnel

The key management personnel of Superior are comprised of executives of Superior and presidents of Superior’s business segments.

The remuneration paid to directors and other members of key management personnel over the past two years is as follows:

Short-term employee benefits(1)

Other long-term employee benefits

Share-based payments

(1)	 Short-term	employee	benefits	paid	to	directors	and	other	members	of	key	management	personnel	include	salaries	and	bonuses.

 2018

7.2

0.2

4.2

11.6

2017

6.8

0.2

4.2

11.2

27. Group Entities

Significant Subsidiaries

Superior Plus LP

Superior Gas Liquids Partnership

Superior International Inc.

Superior General Partner Inc.

Superior Plus Canada Financing Inc.

Stittco Utilities NWT Ltd.

Stittco Utilities Man Ltd.

Cal-Gas Inc.

Commercial E Industrial ERCO (Chile) Limitada

Superior Luxembourg Sàrl

Superior Plus US Holdings Inc.

Superior Plus US Financing Inc.

ERCO Worldwide Inc.

ERCO Worldwide (USA) Inc.

International Dioxcide Inc.

Superior Plus Energy Services Inc.

Superior Plus US Capital Corp.

NGL Propane, LLC

Osterman Propane, LLC

United Liquid Gas Company, Inc.

Country of Organization

Ownership Interest (Direct and Indirect)

Canada

Canada

Canada

Canada

Canada

Canada

Canada

Canada

Chile

Luxembourg

United States

United States

United States

United States

United States

United States

United States

United States

United States

United States

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

86  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

28. Reportable Segment Information

Superior operates two distinct businesses, being Energy Distribution and Specialty Chemicals. Superior’s Energy Distribution operating segment 

provides distribution, wholesale procurement and related services in relation to propane, heating oil and other refined fuels under the following: 

Canadian propane division and U.S. refined fuels division.

Specialty Chemicals is a leading supplier of sodium chlorate and technology to the pulp and paper industries and a regional supplier of potassium 

and chlor-alkali products in the U.S. Midwest and Western Canada.

Superior’s Chief Operating Decision Maker, the President, reviews the operating results, assesses performance, and makes capital allocation 

decisions with respect to the Energy Distribution and Specialty Chemicals businesses and the corporate office. Therefore, Superior has presented 

these as operating segments for financial reporting purposes in accordance with IFRS 8, Operating Segments.

  Depreciation included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

(98.1)

—

2018

Revenue

Cost of sales (includes products and services)

Gross Profit

Expenses

  Amortization of intangible assets included in selling, distribution  

and administrative costs

Selling, distribution and administrative costs

Finance expense

  Unrealized (loss) gain on derivative financial instruments

Net earnings (loss) before taxes

Income tax recovery

Net earnings (loss)

2017

Revenue

Cost of sales (includes products and services)

Gross Profit

Expenses

Energy 
Distribution

Specialty 
Chemicals

Corporate

2,058.7

(1,344.1)

714.6

676.5

(444.5)

232.0

(46.2)

(464.4)

(4.7)

(27.8)

(641.2)

73.4

—

73.4

(1.1)

(148.2)

(2.3)

—

(151.6)

80.4

—

80.4

Energy 
Distribution

Specialty 
Chemicals

Corporate

1,748.1

(1,233.2)

514.9

  Depreciation included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

(50.1)

  Amortization of intangible assets included in selling, distribution  

and administrative costs

Selling, distribution and administrative costs

Finance expense

  Unrealized gain on derivative financial instruments

Net earnings (loss) before taxes

Income tax recovery

Net earnings (loss)

(9.6)

(348.1)

(3.5)

5.0

(406.3)

108.6

—

108.6

(8.5)

—

(8.5)

(0.2)

—

(42.1)

(78.8)

(58.5)

(179.6)

(188.1)

0.3

(187.8)

0.5

—

0.5

Total

2,726.7

(1,788.6)

938.1

(98.3)

(47.3)

(654.7)

(85.8)

(86.3)

(972.4)

(34.3)

0.3

(34.0)

Total

2,385.0

(1,649.6)

735.4

(0.9)

(51.0)

—

(38.4)

(49.6)

22.7

(66.2)

(65.7)

(143.7)

(209.4)

(9.6)

(532.9)

(53.8)

27.7

(619.6)

115.8

(143.7)

(27.9)

636.4

(416.4)

220.0

—

—

(146.4)

(0.7)

—

(147.1)

72.9

—

72.9

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  87

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net Working Capital, Total Assets, Total Liabilities, and Purchase of Property, Plant and Equipment

As at December 31, 2018

  Net working capital(1)

Total assets

Total liabilities

As at December 31, 2017

  Net working capital(1)

Total assets

Total liabilities

For the year ended December 31, 2018

Purchase of property, plant and equipment

For the year ended December 31, 2017

Purchase of property, plant and equipment

Energy 
Distribution

Specialty 
Chemicals

Corporate

Total

93.2

2,913.2

606.8

88.4
1,609.3

434.3

77.6

47.3

49.4

710.5

223.1

54.3
720.7

201.0

28.2

28.9

(45.3)

25.9

1,730.8

(27.0)
53.6

972.3

—

0.8

97.3

3,649.6

2,560.7

115.7
2,383.6

1,607.6

105.8

77.0

(1)	 Net	working	capital	reflects	amounts	at	year-end	and	is	comprised	of	trade	and	other	receivables,	prepaid	expenses	and	inventories,	less	trade	and	other	accounts	

payable,	contract	liabilities	and	dividends	and	interest	payable.

29. Geographical Information

Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2018

Property, plant and equipment as at December 31, 2018

Intangible assets as at December 31, 2018

Goodwill as at December 31, 2018

Total assets as at December 31, 2018

Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2017

Property, plant and equipment as at December 31, 2017

Intangible assets as at December 31, 2017

Goodwill as at December 31, 2017

Total assets as at December 31, 2017

Canada

1,117.2

636.9

156.6

325.8

1,494.5

948.3

652.4

193.3

326.9

1,609.3

United  
States

1,510.9

841.2

255.5

696.1

2,104.3

1,335.6

423.1

45.5

25.4

720.7

Other

98.6

49.7

—

—

50.8

101.1

45.3

—

—

53.6

Total  
Consolidated

2,726.7

1,527.8

412.1

1,021.9

3,649.6

2,385.0

1,120.8

238.8

352.3

2,383.6

88  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
Corporate Information

Board of Directors

Catherine (Kay) M. Best 

Calgary, Alberta

Eugene V.N. Bissell 

Gladwyne, Pennsylvania 

Richard Bradeen 

Montreal West, Québec

Luc Desjardins 

President and Chief Executive Officer 

Toronto, Ontario

Randall J. Findlay 

Calgary, Alberta

Patrick (Pat) E. Gottschalk 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 

Douglas Harrison 

Burlington, Ontario 

Mary Jordan 

Vancouver, British Columbia 

David P. Smith 

Chairman 

Calgary, Alberta

Corporate Officers and Senior Management

Ed Bechberger 

President, Specialty Chemicals

Luc Desjardins 

President and Chief Executive Officer 

Rob Dorran 

Vice President, Investor Relations and Treasurer 

John Engelen 

Vice President, Mergers and Acquisitions 

Julien Houle 

Vice President, Human Resources

Darren Hribar 

Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer

Harry Kanwar 

Vice President, Risk and Compliance

Greg L. McCamus 

President, Superior Propane and Superior Plus  

Energy Distribution

Inder Minhas 

Vice President, Finance

Andy Peyton 

President, Superior Plus Propane

Erin Seaman 

Vice President, Tax

Beth Summers 

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Shawn Vammen 

Senior Vice President, Superior Gas Liquids

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  89

 
Business and Shareholder Information

Superior Plus Corp.

Unit 401, 200 Wellington Street West

Telephone: 416-345-8050

Toronto, Ontario 

M5V 3C7

Facsimile: 416-340-6030

Toll Free: 1-866-490-PLUS (7587)

Energy Distribution

Trustee and Transfer Agent

Investor-relations@SuperiorPlus.com
www.superiorplus.com

Canadian Propane Distribution

Superior Propane
6750 Century Avenue
Suite 400
Mississauga, Ontario L5N 2V8
Toll Free: 1-877-341-7500
Fax: 1-877-730-5575

Superior Gas Liquids
840 – 7 Avenue SW
Suite 1400
Calgary, Alberta T2P 3G2
Toll Free: 1-888-849-3525
Fax: 403-283-6589

U.S. Propane Distribution

Superior Plus Energy Services
1870 South Winton Road
Suite 200
Rochester, New York 14618
Toll Free: 1-877-927-6488
Fax: 585-328-7114

Specialty Chemicals

ERCO Worldwide
302 The East Mall
Suite 200
Toronto, Ontario M9B 6C7
Toll Free: 416-239-7111
Fax: 416-239-0235

Computershare TrustCompany  
of Canada
Suite 600, 530 – 8 Avenue SW
Calgary, Alberta T2P 3S8
or:
Suite 800, 100 University Avenue
Toronto, Ontario M5J 2Y1
Toll Free: 1-800-564-6253
Website: www.computershare.com/ca

Auditors

Ernst & Young LLP
100 Adelaide Street West
Toronto, Ontario M5H 0B3

Annual and Special Meeting  
of Shareholders

The Corporation’s Annual and Special 
Meeting of shareholders will be held 
at the Melinda Gallery, One King West 
Hotel & Residence, 1 King Street West, 
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5H 1A1 on 
Thursday, May 9, 2019 at 12:00 p.m. 
(EDT).

Toronto Stock Exchange  
(TSX) Listings

SPB: Superior Plus Corp. shares

Superior Plus Share Price and Volumes – TSX
Quarterly high, low, close and volumes for 2018 and 2017. The table below sets forth the high and low prices, as well as the volumes, for 
the shares as traded on the TSX, on a quarterly basis.

Period

First Quarter

Second Quarter

Third Quarter

Fourth Quarter

Year

2018

2017

High

Low

Close

Volume

High

Low

Close

Volume

$ 12.97

$ 13.51

$ 13.56

$ 12.70

$ 13.56

$ 11.26

$ 12.18

$ 12.55

$  9.17

$  9.17

$ 12.34

29,495,779

$ 12.71

40,311,145

$ 12.68

55,411,444

$  9.68

65,693,418

$  9.68

190,911,786

$ 13.24

$ 13.34

$ 12.78

$ 13.13

$ 13.34

$ 12.22

$ 11.22

$ 10.80

$ 11.67

$ 10.80

$ 12.90

20,630,167

$ 11.42

19,746,744

$ 12.64

16,776,889

$ 11.87

13,566,359

$ 11.87

70,720,159

90  Superior Plus Corp. Business and Shareholder Information

Annual Report 2018 Superior Plus Corp.  91

 
92  Superior Plus Corp. 

Superior Plus Corp.

401-200 Wellington Street West, 

Toronto, Ontario M5V 3C7

Tel: 416-345-8050 

Fax: 416-340-6030 

Toll-Free: 1-866-490-PLUS (7587)

For more information send your enquiries to: 

investor-relations@superiorplus.com

superiorplus.com