Quarterlytics / Consumer Defensive / Household & Personal Products / Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc.

Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc.

spb · NYSE Consumer Defensive
Claim this profile
Ticker spb
Exchange NYSE
Sector Consumer Defensive
Industry Household & Personal Products
Employees 3100
← All annual reports
FY2019 Annual Report · Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc.
Sign in to download
Loading PDF…
BUILDING
NORTH AMERICAN 
LEADERSHIP
LEADERSHIP

A N N U A L   R E P O R T 
2019

T A B L E   O F   C O N T E N T S

IFC  Performance Highlights 

1 

President’s Message 

47  Consolidated Financial Statements

51  Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

4  Management’s Discussion and Analysis Management’s Report 

101  Corporate Information 

45 

Independent Auditor’s Report 

102  Businesses and Shareholder Information

Financial Results

(millions of dollars)

Revenues(1)

Gross	profit(1)

EBITDA	from	operations(2) 

Adjusted	EBITDA(2) 

Adjusted	operating	cash	flow	before	transaction	and	other	costs(2)(3)

Adjusted	operating	cash	flow(2)(3) 

Net earnings (loss)

Dividends declared 

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

EBITDA	from	operations(2)(4) 

Adjusted	EBITDA(2)(4) 

Adjusted	operating	cash	flow	before	transaction	and	other	costs(2)(3)(4)

Adjusted	operating	cash	flow(2)(3)(4)

Net earnings (loss)

Dividends paid

Weighted average shares outstanding (millions)

2019

2,852.9

1,213.0

562.1

524.5

406.2

376.3

142.6 

125.9

2019

3.21

3.00

2.32

2.15

0.82 

0.72

174.9 

2018

2,737.7

948.2

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

(1)	

(2)	
(3) 

(4)	

	Revenue	and	gross	profit	has	been	presented	excluding	realized	gains	and	losses	on	commodity	derivative	instruments	and	the	comparative	figures	have	been	
restated.	These	gains	and	losses	are	included	in	other	income	(loss)	in	the	audited	consolidated	financial	statements.	For	purposes	of	determining	margin	per	litre,	
gross	profit	has	been	adjusted	to	include	realized	gains	and	losses	on	commodity	derivative	instruments.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”.

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

 Transaction and other costs for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 are related to acquisition activity, restructuring and the integration of acquisitions. 
See “Transaction and Other Costs” for further details.

	The	weighted	average	number	of	shares	outstanding	for	the	years	ended	December	31,	2019	and	2018	was	174.9	and	158.1	million	shares	respectively.	There	were	
no	dilutive	instruments	with	respect	to	AOCF	and	AOCF	before	transaction	and	other	costs	per	share	for	years	ended	December	31,	2019	and	2018.

Financial Position

(millions of dollars)

Total assets

Total liabilities

Net capital expenditures(1) 

Senior secured debt(2)

Senior debt(2)(3)

Senior Debt to Credit Facility leverage ratio(3)(4)

2019

3,638.0

2,599.0

166.0

570.0

1,794.7

3.7x 

2018

3,654.0

2,565.1

95.5

639.0

1,886.3

4.2x

(1)	

(2) 
(3)	

(4)	

	Includes	investment	in	finance	leases	amounting	to	$37.2	million	in	2019	and	$16.0	million	in	2018.	Excludes	property,	plant	and	equipment	acquired	 
through acquisition.
 Senior secured debt and senior debt are stated before deferred issue costs. 2019 senior secured debt excludes the impact of IFRS 16.

	See	“Non-	GAAP	Financial	Measures”	in	Superior’s	Management’s	Discussion	and	Analysis	(MD&A)	for	additional	details.	2019	senior	debt	reflects	the	impact	 
of IFRS 16. 

	See	“Non-	GAAP	Financial	Measures”	in	Superior’s	MD&A	for	definition	of	Credit	Facility	leverage	ratio.	The	leverage	ratio	is	used	for	bank	covenant	and	note	
indenture purposes. 

President’s Message

“ In 2019, Superior delivered record results, 
while maintaining our focus on providing 
a safe and productive environment for all 
our employees.”

Luc Desjardins

President and  
Chief Executive Officer

Dear	fellow	shareholder,

In	2019,	Superior	delivered	record	results,	while	maintaining	

we	completed	$70	million	in	tuck-in	acquisitions	of	retail	propane	

distribution	assets	in	the	Eastern	U.S.,	Canada	and	California.	

our focus on providing a safe and productive environment for 

In	our	U.S.	Propane	distribution	business,	we	made	excellent	

all our employees. Our management team, board of directors 

progress integrating the operations of NGL Propane LLC (“NGL”) 

and employees are committed to the long-term sustainability of 

into	our	business	and	realizing	synergies	from	this	acquisition.	

Superior	as	it	relates	not	only	to	our	operational	and	financial	

Due	 to	this	progress,	we	increased	our	target	for	run-rate	

results, but also improving on our environmental, social and 

synergies	to	US$24	million	from	US$20	million,	and	we	achieved	

governance practices. We strive to continuously improve on the 

US$20	million	in	run-rate	synergies	exiting	2019,	which	was	a	

way	we	operate	and	service	our	customers,	utilizing	a	modern	

year earlier than expected. The landscape to acquire solid retail 

approach	with	digital	tools	and	technology,	and	doing	it	in	a	safe	

propane	assets	in	our	operating	regions	in	the	Eastern	U.S.	

and	sustainable	way.	

I’m	proud	of	all	that	we	accomplished	in	2019	in	all	three	of	our	

businesses.	We	successfully	reached	our	Evolution	2020	target	

ahead	of	schedule,	achieving	a	record	full	year	EBITDA	from	

operations	of	$523.3	million,	excluding	the	impact	of	IFRS	16,	

which	was	a	$246.8	million	improvement	compared	to	our	full	

year	2016	EBITDA	from	operations.	Our	Senior	Debt	to	Credit	

Facility	EBITDA	was	also	reduced	from	4.2x	at	December	31,	2018	

to 3.7x at December 31, 2019, demonstrating the strong cash 

flow	from	operations	generated	by	our	businesses.	In	addition,	

and	California	remains	robust	with	well	over	1,500	potential	

opportunities. Superior’s propane distribution model, developed 

and	operationalized	in	our	Canadian	Propane	division,	is	modern	

and	provides	Superior	with	a	competitive	advantage	through	

a	professional	sales	and	marketing	team	and	approach,	an	

advanced	operating	model	utilizing	data	and	digitalization	to	

increase	organic	growth	and	improve	operational	and	logistic	

efficiencies.	In	2020,	we	will	start	to	roll	out	our	propane	

distribution	model	into	our	U.S.	business,	which	is	anticipated	to	

improve	operational	efficiency,	reduce	costs	and	increase	results.	

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp. 

1

 
“	We	successfully	reached	our	Evolution	2020	target	ahead	of	

schedule,	achieving	a	record	full	year	EBITDA	from	operations	

of	$523.3	million,	excluding	the	impact	of	IFRS	16,	which	was	

a	$246.8	million	improvement	compared	to	our	full	year	2016	

EBITDA	from	operations.”

In	our	Canadian	propane	distribution	business,	EBITDA	from	

fourth	quarter.	The	hydrochloric	acid	markets	faced	challenges	

operations	increased	$38.3	million	compared	to	the	prior	year	

related to reduced demand to the U.S. oil and gas sector. The 

even	though	we	faced	headwinds	in	Western	Canada	related	to	

reduced activity in the U.S. oil and gas sector also impacted our 

a	decline	in	oilfield	activity	and	weakening	economic	conditions.	

sodium chlorite business. We announced the closure of our 

Our	acquisition	of	UPE	in	the	fourth	quarter	of	2018	contributed	

Saskatoon	sodium	chlorate	plant	as	it	was	one	of	our	highest	cost	

positively	to	the	Canadian	business	as	we	grew	our	wholesale	

plants based on electricity costs. We have also announced and 

volumes	by	over	350	million	litres	and	now	have	a	strategic	entry	

commenced	expansion	projects	at	our	two	lowest	cost	plants	in	

point to build retail propane distribution in California. Wholesale 

Buckingham,	Quebec	and	Valdosta,	Georgia.	

propane	fundamentals	were	far	improved	from	the	prior	year,	

which	enabled	us	to	capitalize	on	significant	average	margin	

improvement. Our Canadian retail propane distribution business, 

Superior	Propane,	continued	with	its	digital	strategy,	rolling	out	an	

additional	30,000	tank	sensors	in	the	year,	and	we	now	have	tank	

sensors on over 50% of our delivered volumes. 

In	2019,	we	made	the	decision	to	conduct	a	strategic	review	of	our	

Specialty Chemicals business, beginning in June. We ran a robust 

process,	which	involved	the	review,	assessment	and	negotiation	

of	formal	offers	for	the	divestiture	of	the	Specialty	Chemicals	

business.	In	January	2020,	we	announced	we	made	the difficult	

decision	not	to	continue	as	the	final	bids	did	not	meet our	

Our	Specialty	Chemicals	business	EBITDA	from	operations	

expectations.	We	are	comfortable	continuing	to	own	this great	

improved	$14.3	million	due	to	IFRS	16	and	increases	in	the	sodium	

business,	and	we	will	focus	on	operating	it	and	investing in	

chlorate	business,	partially	offset	by	a	decrease	in	our	chlor-alkali	

making it	better.	

and	sodium	chlorite	business.	Our	chlor-alkali	business	has	faced	

a	challenging	market	in	caustic	soda	and	hydrochloric	acid.	The	

caustic	soda	markets	were	challenged	beginning	in	the	second	

half	of	2019,	and	the	demand	and	price	declines	intensified	in	the	

We are committed to reducing our leverage ratio and have a 

target	of	3.0x	to	3.5x	while	we	execute	our	tuck-in	acquisition	

strategy.	Our	leverage	target	for	2020	is	3.4x	to	3.8x,	and	we	

2 

Superior Plus Corp. President’s Message

“ Superior’s propane distribution model, developed at Superior 

Propane,	is	modern	and	provides	Superior	with	a	competitive	

advantage	through	a	professional	sales	and	marketing	team	

and	approach,	an	advanced	operating	model	utilizing	data	and	

digitalization	to	increase	organic	growth	and	improve	operational	

and logistic	efficiencies.”

expect to comfortably achieve our desired range of 3.0x to 

Acknowledgements

3.5x	by	2021,	while	still	growing	our	business	organically	and	

through acquisitions.

I	believe	that	the	success	of	any	organization	comes	from	

the talent and passion of their people. Our 4,300 employees 

Talent	management	remains	a	focus	for	us,	and	we’ve	made	great	

represent some	of	the	best	talent	in	the	industries	in	which	

progress	in	that	area	in	2019.	We’ve	hired	top	professionals	with	

Superior	competes.	I	would	like	to	thank	each	of	you	for	your	

expertise in safety, propane distribution, logistics and sales and 

hard work	and	commitment	to	your	respective	businesses.	

marketing	in	our	U.S.	propane	distribution	business.	We	also	

On	behalf	of	the	entire	organization,	I	would	like	to	thank	

have a succession plan in place to identify and develop our future 

our	shareholders	and	other	stakeholders	for	your	continued	

leaders	of	the	organization	to	ensure	the	continued	success	of	

support and	confidence	in	Superior.	

Superior into the future. 

We	have	accomplished	a	significant	amount	in	2019,	with	the	

integration	of	NGL,	as	well	as	the	continued	development	of	

our digital strategy. Our acquisition and integration strategy is 

in	full	swing,	and	we	target	improving	the	operations	of	Energy	

Distribution	businesses	we	acquire	by	15%	to	25%	through	

On	behalf	of	the	Board	of	Directors	and	Executive	Management,	

leveraging	our	operating	platform	in	Energy	Distribution.

Luc Desjardins

President	and	Chief	Executive	Officer	 

February 20, 2020

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp. 

3

 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of 2019  
Annual and Fourth Quarter Results 
February 20, 2020

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) 

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

contains information about the performance and 

financial	position	of	Superior	Plus	Corp.	(Superior)	

as at and for the years ended December 31, 2019 

and	2018,	as	well	as	forward-looking	information	

has three operating segments: Canadian Propane Distribution, 

U.S. Propane Distribution and Specialty Chemicals. The Canadian 

Propane Distribution segment includes the Canadian retail propane 

distribution	business	and	the	wholesale	natural	gas	liquid	marketing	

businesses	with	operations	located	in	Canada	and	California.	The	

U.S. Propane Distribution segment distributes propane gas and 

about future periods. The information in this MD&A 

liquid	fuels	primarily	in	the	Eastern	United	States,	as	well	as	the	

is current to February 20, 2020, and should be read 

in	conjunction	with	Superior’s	audited	consolidated	

financial	statements	and	notes	thereto	as	at	and	for	

the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018. 

Midwest	and	California.	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. Reportable segment information has also been 

restated	to	comply	with	the	current	presentation.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The	accompanying	audited	consolidated	financial	statements	of	

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

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

that	are	not	defined	under	generally	accepted	accounting	

management.	Superior’s	audited	consolidated	financial	statements	

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

as	at	and	for	the	years	ended	December	31,	2019	and	2018	were	

performance of Superior and its businesses: adjusted operating 

prepared	in	accordance	with	International	Financial	Reporting	

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

Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting 

earnings	before	interest,	taxes,	depreciation	and	amortization	

Standards Board (IASB). 

(EBITDA)	from	operations,	Adjusted	EBITDA,	Leverage	Ratio,	Credit	

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

of	Canadian	dollars	except	where	otherwise	noted.	All	tables	

are for the year ended December 31 of the period 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 

Facility	EBITDA,	Senior	Debt	and	Adjusted	Gross	Profit.	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	

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

items may only be relevant in certain periods. 

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. 

4 

Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

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. 

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,	expected	AOCF	and	AOCF	per	share,	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.,	EBITDA	and	synergies	associated	with	the	NGL	Propane,	LLC	(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 historical 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,	and	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.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp. 

5

 
Financial Overview

Summary of AOCF

(millions of dollars except per share amounts)

Revenue(1)

Gross profit(1) 

EBITDA from operations(2)

Corporate operating and administrative costs

Realized losses on foreign currency hedging contracts

Adjusted EBITDA(2) 

Interest expense

Cash income tax expense

AOCF before transaction and other costs(2)

Transaction and other costs(3)

AOCF(2)

AOCF per share before transaction and other costs(2)(3)(4)

AOCF per share(2)(3)(4)

Dividends declared per share(4)

Year Ended December 31

2019

2,852.9

1,213.0

562.1

(25.5)

(12.1)

524.5

(105.2)

(13.1)

406.2

(29.9)

376.3

$ 

$ 

$ 

2.32

2.15

0.72

$ 

$ 

$ 

2018

2,737.7

948.2

402.8

(20.0)

(8.5)

374.3

(70.1)

(1.9)

302.3

(39.5)

262.8

1.91

1.66

0.72

(1)	 Revenue	and	gross	profit	has	been	presented	excluding	realized	gains	and	losses	on	commodity	derivative	instruments	and	the	comparative	figures	have	been	

restated.	These	gains	and	losses	are	included	in	other	income	(loss)	in	the	audited	consolidated	financial	statements.	For	purposes	of	determining	margin	per	litre,	
gross	profit	has	been	adjusted	to	include	realized	gains	and	losses	on	commodity	derivative	instruments.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”.

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

(3)   Transaction and other costs for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 are related to acquisition activity, restructuring and the integration of acquisitions. See 

“Transaction and Other Costs” for further details.

(4)	 The	weighted	average	number	of	shares	outstanding	for	the	years	ended	December	31,	2019	and	2018	was	174.9	and	158.1	million	shares	respectively.	There	were	

no	dilutive	instruments	with	respect	to	AOCF	and	AOCF	before	transaction	and	other	costs	per	share	for	years	ended	December	31,	2019	and	2018.

Comparable GAAP Financial Information

(millions of dollars except per share amounts)

Net earnings (loss) for the year

Net earnings (loss) per share, basic and diluted

Cash flows from operating activities

Cash flows from operating activities per share, basic and diluted

Segmented Information

(millions of dollars)

EBITDA from operations(1)

Canadian Propane Distribution

U.S. Propane Distribution

Specialty Chemicals

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

Year Ended December 31

2019

142.6

2018

(34.0)

$ 

0.82

$ 

(0.22)

423.2

263.0

$ 

2.42

$ 

1.66

Year Ended December 31

2019

2018

200.8

209.4

151.9

562.1

162.5

102.7

137.6

402.8

6 

Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
AOCF Reconciled to Cash Flows from Operating Activities(1)

(millions of dollars)

Cash flows from operating activities

Non-cash interest expense, loss on redemption and other

Changes in non-cash operating working capital

Income taxes paid

Interest paid

Cash income tax expense

Finance expense recognized in net earnings

AOCF(1)

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

2019 Acquisitions 

Year Ended December 31

2019

423.2

9.1

(43.7)

8.4

106.7

(13.1)

(114.3)

376.3

2018

263.0

15.8

25.0

0.1

51.1

(1.9)

(90.3)

262.8

Acquisition of Phelps Sungas, Inc. and BMK Geneva, Inc. (together “Phelps”)

On	April	1,	2019,	Superior	closed	the	acquisition	of	the	propane	distribution	assets	of	Phelps,	an	independent	propane	distributor	in	New	

York	for	total	consideration	of	US$18.7	million	(CDN	$25.2	million).	The	acquisition	was	funded	by	drawing	on	Superior’s	credit	facility	and	

deferring	US$2.5	million	(CDN	$3.3	million)	in	payments	over	the	next	five	years.

Acquisition of Sheldon Gas Company and Sheldon Oil Company (together “Sheldon”)

On May 2, 2019, Superior closed the acquisition of the shares of Sheldon, an independent propane distributor in Northern California for 

total	consideration	of	US$15.8	million	(CDN	$21.2	million).	The	acquisition	was	funded	by	drawing	on	Superior’s	credit	facility	and	deferring	

US$1.5	million	(CDN	$2.0	million)	in	payments	over	the	next	three	years.	Included	in	the	assets	acquired	was	a	51%	interest	in	an	entity	that	

Superior	acquired	the	other	49%	interest	previously	as	part	of	the	acquisition	of	United	Pacific	Energy.

Other Acquisitions

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company closed three other business acquisitions for a total consideration of approximately 

$22.8	million.	This	consisted	of	one	acquisition	in	Canada	and	two	acquisitions	in	the	US.	The	acquisitions	were	funded	by	drawing	on	

Superior’s	credit	facility	and	deferring	US$2.5	million	(CDN	$3.3	million)	in	payments	over	the	next	five	years.

Consolidated Statement of Net Earnings (Loss)

(millions of dollars except per share amounts)

Revenue

Cost of sales (includes products and services)

Gross profit

Expenses

Selling, distribution and administrative costs (“SD&A”)

Finance expense

Other income (loss)

Earnings (loss) before income taxes

Income tax (expense) recovery
Net earnings (loss) for the year

Year Ended December 31

2019

2,852.9

(1,639.9)

1,213.0

(948.3)

(114.3)

17.2

(1,045.4)

167.6

(25.0)

142.6

2018

2,737.7

(1,789.5)

948.2

(800.3)

(90.3)

(91.9)

(982.5)

(34.3)

0.3

(34.0)

Net earnings (loss) per share, basic and diluted(1)

$ 

0.82

$ 

(0.22)

(1)	 The	weighted	average	number	of	shares	outstanding	for	the	years	ended	December	31,	2019	and	2018	was	174.9	and	158.1	million	shares	respectively.	There	were	

no	dilutive	instruments	with	respect	to	AOCF	and	AOCF	before	transaction	and	other	costs	per	share	for	the	years	ended	December	31,	2019	and	2018.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp. 

7

 
 
 
Annual Financial Results Compared to the Prior Year

Adjusted	EBITDA	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019	was	$524.5	million,	an	increase	of	$150.2	million	or	40%	compared	to	the	prior	year	

Adjusted	EBITDA	of	$374.3	million.	The	increase	is	primarily	due	to	higher	EBITDA	from	operations	partially	offset	by	increased	corporate	

costs	and	higher	realized	losses	on	foreign	currency	hedging	contracts.	EBITDA	from	operations	increased	$159.3	million	or	40%	compared	

to	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	higher	U.S.	Propane	EBITDA	from	operations	and,	to	a	lesser	extent,	an	increase	in	Canadian	Propane	

and	Specialty	Chemicals	EBITDA	from	operations.	U.S.	Propane	EBITDA	from	operations	was	$209.4	million,	an	increase	of	$106.7	million	or	

104%	primarily	due	to	the	contribution	from	the	NGL	and	tuck-in	acquisitions,	and	realization	of	approximately	$22.0	million	in	synergies,	

partially	offset	by	the	impact	of	the	sale	of	certain	refined	fuel	assets	in	the	prior	year.	Canadian	Propane	EBITDA	from	operations	was	

$200.8	million,	an	increase	of	$38.3	million	or	24%	primarily	due	to	improved	wholesale	market	fundamentals,	the	contribution	from	the	UPE	

acquisition	and,	to	a	lesser	extent,	realized	synergies	from	Canwest	and	the	impact	of	adopting	IFRS	16,	see	‘Change	in	accounting	policy’,	

partially	offset	by	lower	sales	volumes	in	Western	Canada	and	the	impact	of	divestitures	in	the	prior	year.	Specialty	Chemicals	EBITDA	from	

operations	of	$151.9	million,	increased	$14.3	million	or	10%	primarily	due	to	the	impact	of	adopting	IFRS	16,	see	‘Change	in	accounting	

policy’,	and	higher	average	sodium	chlorate	selling	prices	and	sales	volumes	partially	offset	by	lower	chlor-alkali	sales	volumes	and	average	

sales	prices,	and	higher	selling,	distribution	and	administrative	costs	compared	to	the	prior	year.	Superior’s	realized	losses	on	foreign	

currency	hedging	contracts	were	$12.1	million	compared	to	a	realized	loss	of	$8.5	million	in	the	prior	year	due	to	the	weaker	Canadian	dollar	

than	the	average	hedge	rate.	Corporate	operating	and	administrative	costs	were	$25.5	million	compared	to	$20.0	million	in	the	prior	year.	

The increase is primarily due to higher incentive plan costs related to share price appreciation.

AOCF	before	transaction	and	other	costs	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019	was	$406.2	million,	an	increase	of	$103.9	million	or	34%	

from	the	prior	year	AOCF	before	transaction	and	other	costs	of	$302.3	million.	The	increase	from	the	prior	year	is	primarily	due	to	higher	

Adjusted	EBITDA	discussed	above,	partially	offset	by	higher	interest	expense.	Interest	expense	increased	$35.1	million	or	50%	primarily	

due	to	higher	debt	balances	as	a	result	of	the	NGL	and	tuck-in	acquisitions.	AOCF	per	share	before	transaction	and	other	costs	was	$2.32	

per	share,	an	increase	of	$0.41	per	share	or	21%	from	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	the	higher	AOCF	before	transaction	and	other	costs	

discussed	above,	partially	offset	by	an	increase	in	weighted	average	shares	outstanding.	

AOCF	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019	was	$376.3	million,	an	increase	of	$113.5	million	or	43%	from	the	prior	year	AOCF	of	

$262.8 million	due	to	the	increased	AOCF	before	transaction	and	other	costs	discussed	above	and,	to	a	lesser	extent,	lower	transaction	

and	other	costs.	AOCF	per	share	for	year	ended	December	31,	2019	was	$2.15	per	share,	an	increase	of	$0.49	per	share	or	30%	from	

the	prior	year.	Transaction	and	other	costs	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019	were	$29.9	million,	$9.6	million	lower	than	the	prior	

year.	The decrease	is	primarily	due	to	acquisition	costs	in	the	prior	year	related	to	NGL,	UPE	and	tuck-in	acquisitions	which	were	higher	

compared to	the	costs	incurred	for	NGL	integration,	a	restructuring	provision	recorded	in	Specialty	Chemicals	and	costs	related	to	the	

Specialty	Chemical	strategic	review	and	tuck	in	acquisitions	in	the	current	year.

Revenue	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019	was	$2,852.9	million,	an	increase	of	$115.2	million	or	4%	from	the	prior	year	due	to	higher	

revenue in the U.S. Propane Distribution, Canadian Propane Distribution and Specialty Chemicals segments. U.S. Propane Distribution 

revenue	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019	was	$1,024.1	million,	an	increase	of	$98.8	million	or	11%	from	the	prior	year	primarily	

due	to	the	contribution	from	the	NGL	and	tuck-in	acquisitions,	and,	to	a	lesser	extent,	the	impact	of	the	weaker	Canadian	dollar	on	the	

translation	of	U.S.	denominated	revenues,	partially	offset	by	the	impact	from	the	sale	of	certain	refined	fuel	assets	in	2018	and	lower	

wholesale	propane	prices	compared	to	the	prior	year.	Canadian	Propane	Distribution	revenue	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019	

was	$1,147.5	million,	an	increase	of	$11.6	million	or	1%	from	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	the	contribution	from	UPE	and	was	partially	

offset	by	lower	sales	volumes	in	Western	Canada,	the	impact	of	lower	wholesale	propane	prices	compared	to	the	prior	year	and,	to	a	lesser	

extent,	the	impact	of	divestitures	in	2018	related	to	the	consent	agreement	registered	by	the	Competition	Bureau	related	to	the	Canwest	

acquisition	in	2017	(the	“Canwest	Divestitures”).	Specialty	Chemicals	revenue	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019	was	$681.3	million,	

an	increase	of	$4.8	million	or	1%	from	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	higher	average	sodium	chlorate	selling	prices	and	sales	volumes	

partially	offset	by	lower	caustic	soda	and	hydrochloric	acid	sales	volumes	and	selling	prices.	Consolidated	gross	profit	was	$1,213.0	million,	

an	increase	of	$264.8	million	or	28%	from	$948.2	million	in	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	higher	U.S.	Propane	gross	profit	and	to	a	lesser	

extent	Canadian	Propane	gross	profit	and	Specialty	Chemicals	gross	profit.	Gross	profit	increased	primarily	due	to	the	NGL	and	tuck-in	

acquisitions	and	improved	wholesale	market	fundamentals	within	the	Canadian	supply	portfolio	management	business	and	higher	average	

chlorate selling prices and sales volume.

8 

Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

SD&A	was	$948.3	million	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019,	an	increase	of	$148.0	million	or	18%	from	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	

an	increase	in	U.S.	Propane	Distribution	SD&A	and	to	a	lesser	extent	the	Specialty	Chemicals	segment,	partially	offset	by	a	decrease	in	the	

Corporate	and	Canadian	Propane	segments.	U.S.	Propane	Distribution	SD&A	costs	were	$413.9	million,	an	increase	of	$147.1	million	from	

$266.8	million	in	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	the	NGL	and	tuck-in	acquisitions	and	to	a	lesser	extent	the	impact	of	the	gain	on	the	sale	

of	certain	refined	fuel	assets	in	the	prior	year.	Specialty	Chemicals	costs	were	$183.4	million	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019,	an	

increase	of	$34.1	million	or	23%	from	$149.3	million	primarily	due	to	an	impairment	charge	and	restructuring	provision	on	the	Saskatoon	

chlorate	facility	and,	to	a	lesser	extent,	higher	depreciation	associated	with	the	adoption	of	IFRS	16	partially	offset	by	lower	distribution	

costs. Canadian	Propane	Distribution	costs	were	$315.8	million,	a	decrease	of	$26.1	million	or	8%	from	$341.9	million	in	the	prior	year	

primarily	due	to	lower	depreciation	and	to	a	lesser	extent	incremental	Canwest	synergies	realized	in	the	current	year	partially	offset	by	the	

impact	of	the	UPE	acquisition.

Finance	expense	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019	was	$114.3	million,	an	increase	of	$24.0	million	or	27%	from	$90.3	million	in	the	

prior	year.	The	increase	is	primarily	due	to	higher	debt	balances	as	a	result	of	the	NGL,	UPE	and	tuck-in	acquisitions	completed	in	the	prior	

year,	higher	interest	rates	in	the	U.S.	and	Canada	and	the	impact	of	adopting	IFRS	16,	see	“Change	in	accounting	policy”	partially	offset	by	

the $9.8	million	early	call	premium	related	to	the	redemption	of	the	6.5%	senior	unsecured	notes	in	the	prior	year.

Other	income	(loss)	consists	of	unrealized	gains	(losses)	on	derivative	financial	instruments	net	of	realized	gains	(losses)	on	derivative	

financial	instruments.	Unrealized	and	realized	gains	on	derivative	financial	instruments	were	$17.2	million	for	the	year	ended	December 31,	

2019	compared	to	a	loss	of	$91.9	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 16	of	the	2019	audited	consolidated	financial	statements.

Total	income	tax	expense	of	$25.0	million	was	$25.3	million	higher	than	the	prior	year’s	recovery	of	$0.3	million.	Current	income	tax	

expense was	$13.1	million,	an	increase	of	$11.2	million	from	the	prior	year.	Deferred	income	tax	expense	was	$11.9	million,	an	increase	

from	the	$2.2 million	recovery	in	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	higher	earnings	before	tax.

The	net	earnings	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019	was	$142.6	million,	compared	to	a	net	loss	of	$34.0	million	in	the	prior	year.	

The	increase	from	the	prior	year	is	primarily	due	to	unrealized	gains	on	derivative	instruments	recorded	in	the	current	period	compared	

to	unrealized	losses	on	derivative	instruments	in	the	prior	year	and	the	impact	of	the	NGL,	UPE	and	other	tuck-in	acquisitions.	Basic	and	

diluted earnings	per	share	was	$0.82,	compared	to	a	loss	per	share	of	$0.22	in	the	prior	year.	

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp. 

9

 
Results of Superior’s Operating Segments 

Effective	January	1,	2019,	Superior	changed	its	operating	segments	and	has	changed	the	comparative	figures	to	conform	to	the	current	

presentation.	Superior’s	operating	segments	consist	of	Canadian	Propane	which	includes	its	wholesale	business,	U.S.	Propane	and	

Specialty Chemicals.

Canadian Propane Distribution

Canadian Propane Distribution’s condensed operating results:

(millions of dollars)

Revenue

Cost of Sales

Gross profit 

Realized losses on derivatives related to commodity risk management

Adjusted gross profit(1)

Selling, distribution and administrative costs

Add back (deduct):

Amortization and depreciation included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

Transaction, restructuring, and other costs

(Gain) loss on disposal of assets and other

EBITDA from operations(2)

Add back (deduct):

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

Earnings before income tax

Year Ended December 31

2019

1,147.5

(680.4)

467.1

(19.9)

447.2

(315.8)

71.9

0.8

(3.3)

200.8

3.3

(0.8)

(71.9)

3.2

(4.4)

130.2

2018

1,135.9

(729.5)

406.4

(2.5)

403.9

(341.9)

86.2

10.3

4.0

162.5

(4.0)

(10.3)

(86.2)

(14.1)

(2.2)

45.7

(1)	 Revenue,	cost	of	sales,	and	gross	profit	has	been	presented	excluding	realized	gains	and	losses	on	commodity	derivative	instruments	and	the	comparative	figures	
have	been	restated.	These	gains	and	losses	are	included	in	other	income	(loss)	in	the	audited	financial	statements.	For	purposes	of	determining	margin	per	litre,	
gross	profit	has	been	adjusted	to	include	realized	gains	and	losses	on	commodity	derivative	instruments.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”.

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

Operations”.

Revenue	for	2019	was	$1,147.5	million,	an	increase	of	$11.6	million	from	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	the	impact	of	the	acquisition	of	

UPE	in	2018	partially	offset	by	lower	wholesale	propane	prices	and,	to	a	lesser	extent,	lower	sales	volumes	in	Western	Canada.	Wholesale	

propane	supply	prices	were	lower	primarily	due	to	the	increase	in	propane	inventory	levels	in	the	U.S.,	driven	by	lower	exports	out	of	

North America	and	the	impact	from	lower	average	West	Texas	Intermediate	crude	oil	prices	compared	to	the	prior	year.	

Canadian Propane Adjusted Gross Profit 

(millions of dollars)

Propane distribution

Realized losses on derivatives related to commodity risk management

Propane distribution adjusted gross profit

Other services

Adjusted gross profit

Year Ended December 31

2019

448.6

(19.9)

428.7

18.5

447.2

2018

384.6

(2.5)

382.1

21.8

403.9

10  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
Propane	distribution	adjusted	gross	profit	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019	was	$428.7	million,	an	increase	of	$46.6	million,	from	the	

prior	year	primarily	due	to	improved	wholesale	market	fundamentals	compared	to	the	prior	year	and	the	contribution	from	UPE,	partially	

offset	by	lower	sales	volumes	in	Western	Canada.	Total	sales	volumes	were	2,505	million	litres,	an	increase	of	290	million	litres,	primarily	

due	to	higher	wholesale	volumes,	partially	offset	by	lower	sales	volumes	in	Western	Canada.	Average	weather	across	Canada	for	2019,	as	

measured	by	degree	days	was	1%	colder	than	the	prior	year	and	4%	colder	than	the	five-year	average.	Residential	sales	volumes	decreased	

by 3 million litres or 2% due to the impact of divestitures in 2018 related to the consent agreement registered by the Competition Bureau 

related	to	the	Canwest	acquisition.	Commercial	sales	volumes	decreased	by	7	million	litres	or	2%	due	to	the	impact	of	Canwest	Competition	

Bureau	divestitures	in	2018	and	current	economic	conditions	in	Western	Canada.	Oilfield	volumes	decreased	by	47	million	litres	or	20%,	due	

to less drilling activity in Western Canada. Industrial volumes decreased by 5 million litres or 2% due to a reduction in propane consumption 

by mining customers. Motor fuels sales volumes decreased by 12 million litres or 7% from the prior year quarter due to competitive 

pressures,	and	the	impact	of	current	economic	conditions	in	Western	Canada.	Wholesale	propane	volumes	were	358	million	litres	or	39%	

higher	compared	to	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	the	acquisition	of	UPE	and	were	partially	offset	by	lower	wholesale	butane	sales	volumes	

compared to the prior year.

Average	propane	sales	margins	for	2019	were	17.1	cents	per	litre	compared	to	17.3	cents	per	litre	in	the	prior	year	due	to	a	higher	

proportion	of	wholesale	volumes	partially	offset	by	improved	wholesale	market	fundamentals	compared	to	the	prior	year.	

Other	services	gross	profit	primarily	includes	equipment	rental,	installation,	repair	and	maintenance	and	customer	minimum	use	charges.	

Other	services	gross	profit	was	$18.5	million,	a	decrease	of	$3.3	million	or	15%	from	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	a	reduction	in	services	

activity and equipment rentals in Western Canada. 

Canadian Propane Distribution Sales Volumes

Volumes by End-Use Application(1)

(millions of litres)

Residential

Commercial

Oilfield

Industrial

Motor Fuels

Wholesale

Other

Total

(1)	 Comparative	figures	have	been	reclassified	to	reflect	the	current	period	presentation.

Volumes by Region(1)

(millions of litres)

Western Canada

Eastern Canada

Atlantic Canada

United States

Total

Year Ended December 31

2019

2018

180

338

184

231

167

1,265

140

2,505

183

345

231

236

179

907

134

2,215

Year Ended December 31

2019

961

535

127

882

2,505

2018

1,121

560

120

414

2,215

(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	California,	Maine,	Idaho,	Kansas,	Michigan,	Washington,	Alaska,	North	Dakota,	Pennsylvania,	and	
New	York.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  11

 
 
 
Selling, Distribution and Administrative Costs

Selling,	distribution	and	administrative	costs	were	$315.8	million,	a	decrease	of	$26.1	million	or	8%	over	the	prior	year.	The	decrease	

in	selling,	distribution	and	administrative	costs	is	primarily	due	to	a	lower	depreciation	and	amortization	and,	to	a	lesser	extent,	lower	

transaction,	restructuring	and	other	costs,	the	impact	of	lower	sales	volumes	and	incremental	synergies	related	to	Canwest	partially	offset	

by increased	SD&A	related	to	the	acquisition	of	UPE.	

Earnings

Earnings	before	income	tax	was	$130.2	million,	an	increase	of	$84.5	million	over	the	prior	year,	as	a	result	of	increased	gross	profit,	lower	

SD&A	and	was	partially	offset	by	an	unrealized	gain	on	derivative	financial	instruments	compared	to	an	unrealized	loss	on	derivative	

financial instruments	in	the	prior	year.

Financial Outlook

EBITDA	from	operations	in	2020	for	Canadian	Propane	Distribution	is	anticipated	to	be	lower	than	2019.	The	anticipated	decrease	in	EBITDA	

is primarily due to an expected decrease in sales volumes in Western Canada and a decrease in average unit margins. Sales volumes 

in	Western	Canada	are	expected	to	decrease	related	to	competitive	pressures,	continued	headwinds	in	oil	and	gas	sector	and	weaker	

economic	activity.	Average	margins	are	expected	to	be	modestly	lower	as	wholesale	propane	and	natural	gas	liquid	fundamentals	related	to	

basis	differentials	are	not	expected	to	be	as	strong	as	they	were	in	2019.	

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	Canadian	Propane	Distribution	business.

U.S. Propane Distribution

U.S. Propane Distribution’s condensed operating results:

(millions of dollars)

Revenue

Cost of Sales

Gross profit 

Realized gains (losses) on derivatives related to commodity risk management

Adjusted gross profit(1)

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(2)

Add back (deduct):

(Loss) gain on disposal of assets and other

Transaction, restructuring, and other costs

Amortization and depreciation included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

Unrealized losses on derivative financial instruments

Finance expense

Earnings before income tax

Year Ended December 31

2019

1,024.1

(514.7)

509.4

(9.1)

500.3

(413.9)

105.0

16.7

1.3

209.4

(1.3)

(16.7)

(105.0)

(2.6)

(4.4)

79.4

2018

925.3

(615.5)

309.8

0.9

310.7

(266.8)

58.1

7.1

(6.4)

102.7

6.4

(7.1)

(58.1)

(13.7)

(2.5)

27.7

(1)	 Revenue,	cost	of	sales,	and	gross	profit	has	been	presented	excluding	realized	gains	and	losses	on	commodity	derivative	instruments	and	the	comparative	figures	
have	been	restated.	These	gains	and	losses	are	included	in	other	income	in	the	audited	financial	statements.	For	purposes	of	determining	margin	per	litre	gross	
profit	has	been	adjusted	to	include	realized	gains	and	losses	on	commodity	derivative	instruments.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”.

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

Operations”.

12  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
Revenue	for	2019	was	$1,024.1	million,	an	increase	of	$98.8	million	from	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	incremental	revenue	from	NGL	and	

the	tuck-in	acquisitions	partially	offset	by	the	impact	of	the	sale	of	certain	refined	fuel	assets	in	the	prior	year	and	lower	wholesale	propane	

prices.	Wholesale	propane	prices	decreased	primarily	due	to	higher	inventory	levels	in	the	U.S.	driven	by	lower	exports	out	of	North	America	

and	the	impact	of	lower	average	West	Texas	Intermediate	crude	oil	prices	compared	to	the	prior	year.

U.S. Propane Adjusted Gross Profit

(millions of dollars)

Propane distribution

Realized gains (losses) on derivatives related to commodity risk management

Propane distribution adjusted gross profit

Other services

Adjusted gross profit

Year Ended December 31

2019

464.2

(9.1)

455.1

45.2

500.3

2018

282.1

0.9

283.0

27.7

310.7

Propane	distribution	adjusted	gross	profit	for	2019	was	$455.1	million,	an	increase	of	$172.1	million	or	61%	from	the	prior	year	primarily	

due	to	a	full	year	impact	from	the	NGL	acquisition,	including	sales	and	marketing	initiatives	and	margin	management	in	a	lower	wholesale	

propane	price	environment	and	to	a	lesser	extent	higher	residential	sales	volumes	and	the	impact	of	a	weaker	Canadian	dollar	compared	to	

the	prior	year,	partially	offset	by	lower	commercial	and	wholesale	sales	volumes.

Residential sales volumes increased by 319 million litres or 60% from the prior year due primarily to the NGL acquisition and to a lesser extent 

the	impact	of	the	tuck-in	acquisitions.	Average	weather	across	markets	where	U.S.	propane	operated	for	a	full	twelve	months	was	consistent	

with	the	prior	year	and	the	five-year	average.	Commercial	volumes	decreased	by	30	million	litres	compared	to	the	prior	year	primarily	due	

to	lower	distillate	sales	as	the	business	shifts	its	focus	to	more	profitable	customers	and	the	impact	from	the	sale	of	refined	fuel	assets	in	

the prior	year,	partially	offset	by	incremental	sales	volumes	related	to	the	NGL	and	tuck-in	acquisitions.	Wholesale	volumes	decreased	by	

185 million	litres	or	80%	due	to	the	sale	of	refined	fuel	assets	and	the	wholesale	distillate	business	in	the	second	quarter	of	2018.

Average	U.S.	propane	sales	margins	were	37.6	cents	per	litre,	an	increase	of	47%	from	25.6	cents	per	litre	in	the	prior	year.	Average	sales	

margins	improved	primarily	due	to	the	higher	proportion	of	residential	sales	volumes	as	a	result	of	the	NGL	and	other	tuck-in	acquisitions	

and	sale	of	refined	fuel	assets	and	wholesale	distillate	business,	sales	and	marketing	initiatives,	including	effective	margin	management	in	a	

declining	wholesale	propane	price	environment,	and	to	a	lesser	extent	the	impact	of	the	weaker	Canadian	dollar	on	the	translation	of	U.S.	

denominated	gross	profit.

Other	services	gross	profit	primarily	includes	equipment	rental,	installation,	repair	and	maintenance,	and	customer	minimum	use	charges.	

Other	services	gross	profit	was	$45.2	million,	an	increase	of	63%	over	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	the	NGL	and	tuck-in	acquisitions.

U.S. Propane Distribution Sales Volumes End-Use Application(1)

(millions of litres)

Residential

Commercial

Wholesale

Total

Year Ended December 31

2019

850

312

47

1,209

2018

531

342

232

1,105

(1)	

Includes	heating	oil,	propane,	diesel	and	gasoline	sold	in	over	twenty-two	states	primarily	in	the	Eastern	United	States	and	California.	Comparative	figures	have	been	
reclassified	to	reflect	the	current	period	presentation.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  13

 
 
 
Selling, Distribution and Administrative Costs

SD&A	costs	were	$413.9	million,	an	increase	of	$147.1	million	or	55%	over	the	prior	year.	The	increase	in	SD&A	costs	was	primarily	due	

to	incremental	expense	related	to	the	acquisition	of	NGL	completed	in	2018	and	tuck-in	acquisitions	and	to	a	lesser	extent	the	impact	of	

the	weaker	Canadian	dollar	on	the	translation	of	U.S.	Denominated	SD&A	compared	to	the	prior	year	and	higher	transaction,	restructuring	

and	other	costs	related	to	the	integration	of	NGL	and	the	tuck-in	acquisitions.	This	was	partially	offset	by	the	realization	of	approximately	

$22 million	in	synergies	related	to	the	integration	of	NGL.	Depreciation	and	amortization	expense	was	$105.0	million,	an	increase	of	

$46.9 million	over	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	the	impact	of	the	NGL	and	other	tuck-in	acquisitions	and	to	a	lesser	extent	the	impact	of	

adopting	IFRS	16,	see	‘Change	in	accounting	policy’.

Earnings

Earnings	before	tax	of	$79.4	million,	increased	by	$51.7	million	over	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	NGL	and	tuck-in	acquisitions	and	

a	smaller	unrealized	loss	on	derivative	financial	instruments	compared	to	the	prior	year,	and	was	partially	offset	by	higher	transaction,	

restructuring and other costs in the current year related primarily to the integration of NGL.

Financial Outlook

EBITDA	from	operations	in	2020	for	U.S.	Propane	is	anticipated	to	be	higher	than	2019.	The	anticipated	increase	in	EBITDA	is	primarily	

due	to	contributions	from	tuck-in	acquisitions	completed	in	2019	and	the	impact	of	achieving	incremental	synergies	of	US$5.0	million	or	

US$24 million	in	run-rate	synergies	exiting	2020.	Average	weather	in	the	Eastern	U.S.,	as	measured	by	degree	days,	is	anticipated	to	be	

consistent	with	the	five-year	average.

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	Propane	Distribution	businesses.

Specialty Chemicals

Specialty Chemicals’ condensed operating results:

(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 impairment

Restructuring costs

Amortization and depreciation included in selling, distribution  
 and administrative costs

EBITDA from operations(2)

Add back (deduct):

(Loss) on disposal of assets and impairment

Amortization included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

Depreciation included in cost of sales

Restructuring costs

Unrealized gain on foreign currency translation of lease liabilities

Finance expense

Earnings before tax

2019

$ per MT 

Year Ended December 31

2018

$ per MT 

810

(532)

278

(179)

64

 —

—

1

164

681.3

(444.8)

236.5

(183.4)

44.9

20.4

3.1

30.4

151.9

(20.4)

(30.4)

(44.9)

(3.1)

2.9

(8.1)

47.9

826

(539)

287

(222)

54

25

4

37

185

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

(1)	 Gross	Profit	per	MT	after	adding	back	depreciation	included	in	cost	of	sales	for	2019	was	$341/MT	and	for	2018	was	$342/MT.

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

Operations”.

14  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sales Volumes by Product

(thousands of MTs)

Sodium chlorate

Chlor-alkali

Chlorite

Total

Year Ended December 31

2019

480

339

6

825

2018

474

353

8

835

Revenue	for	2019	was	$681.3	million,	an	increase	of	$4.8	million	or	1%	from	the	prior	year.	The	increase	was	primarily	due	to	higher	

sodium chlorate	sales	volumes	and	selling	prices	and	to	a	lesser	extent	the	impact	of	a	weaker	Canadian	dollar	on	U.S.	denominated	

revenue	partially	offset	by	lower	average	chlor-alkali	selling	prices	and	sales	volumes	and	lower	chlorite	sales	volumes.	

Sodium	chlorate	sales	volumes	increase	over	the	prior	year	reflects	an	increased	North	American	market	share.	

Chlor-alkali	sales	volumes	decreased	by	14	thousand	MTs	or	4%	due	to	lower	hydrochloric	acid	and	caustic	soda	sales	volumes	partially	

offset	by	higher	caustic	potash	sales	volumes	and	to	a	lesser	extent	higher	chlorine	sales	volumes.	Hydrochloric	acid	sales	volumes	

decreased	14%	primarily	due	to	lower	demand	from	the	U.S.	oil	and	gas	sector	related	to	less	rig	activity.	Caustic	soda	sales	volumes	

decreased	12%	primarily	due	to	competitive	pressures	related	to	North	American	market	fundamentals.	Caustic	potash	sales	volume	

increased	15%	from	strong	demand	in	the	agriculture	and	de-icing	sectors	and	lower	supply	due	to	temporary	production	issues	at	a	

competitor’s	plant.	Chlorite	sales	volumes	were	lower	than	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	lower	demand	into	the	U.S.	oil	and	gas	market.

Gross	profit	was	$236.5	million,	an	increase	of	$4.5	million	or	2%	from	the	prior	year	due	primarily	to	higher	sodium	chlorate	selling	prices	

and	sales	volumes,	the	impact	of	the	weaker	Canadian	dollar	compared	to	the	prior	year	on	U.S.	denominated	sales	partially	offset	by	lower	

chlor-alkali	sales	volumes	and	selling	prices.

Selling,	distribution	and	administrative	costs	were	$183.4	million,	an	increase	of	$34.1	million	over	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	an	

impairment charge and restructuring provision recorded during the year and higher depreciation compared to the prior year. On 

May 31, 2019,	it	was	announced	to	employees	and	other	key	stakeholders	that	the	Specialty	Chemicals	segment	will	close	its	sodium	

chlorate	manufacturing	facility	in	Saskatoon,	Saskatchewan	in	2019.	As	a	result,	a	$3.1	million	restructuring	provision	related	primarily	

to	severance	costs	and	a	$17.5	million	asset	impairment	charge	on	the	related	plant	and	equipment	was	recorded.	Depreciation	and	

amortization	included	in	selling,	distribution	and	administrative	costs	increased	primarily	due	to	the	impact	of	IFRS	16,	see	‘Change	in	

accounting policy’. 

Earnings	before	tax	for	2019	was	$47.9	million,	a	decrease	of	$32.5	million	over	the	prior	year	due	to	the	impairment	and	restructuring	

provision	recorded	during	the	year,	higher	depreciation	costs	partially	offset	by	higher	gross	profit	and	an	unrealized	gain	on	the	translation	

of U.S. denominated lease liabilities.

Financial Outlook

EBITDA	from	operations	for	Specialty	Chemicals	in	2020	is	anticipated	to	be	lower	than	2019	due	to	an	expected	significant	decrease	in	

chlor-alkali	gross	profit,	modest	decrease	in	sodium	chlorate	gross	profit	and	a	modest	increase	in	operating	expenses.	Chlor-alkali	gross	

profit	is	anticipated	to	be	lower	than	2019	due	to	continued	weakness	in	hydrochloric	acid	pricing	driven	by	reduced	oil	and	gas	demand,	

a	decrease	in	caustic	potash	sales	volumes	and	pricing	related	to	customer	mix	and	weakness	in	caustic	soda	pricing	related	to	supply	and	

demand	fundamentals	entering	2020	in	North	American	markets.	Sodium	chlorate	gross	profit	is	anticipated	to	be	modestly	lower	than	

2019	as	modest	improvements	in	sales	prices	are	expected	to	be	more	than	offset	by	modestly	lower	sales	volumes,	increases	in	electricity	

mill	rates	and	the	impact	of	a	weaker	U.S.	dollar	compared	to	2019.	

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.	

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  15

 
 
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.

Superior’s capital expenditures for 2019 and 2018:

(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 leased assets

Total expenditures including finance leases

Year Ended December 31

2019

67.5

68.4

135.9

(7.1)

32.5

161.3

37.2

198.5

2018

28.8

73.4

102.2

(22.7)

335.0

414.5

16.0

430.5

Efficiency,	process	improvement	and	growth-related	expenditures	were	$67.5	million	for	2019	compared	to	$28.8	million	in	the	prior	year.	

The increase over the prior year is primarily due to integration activity, increased capital expenditures due to the NGL and other acquisitions 

and	to	a	lesser	extent	costs	incurred	to	expand	a	chlorate	plant	located	in	Quebec	and	timing	of	expenditures.

Maintenance	capital	expenditures	were	$68.4	million	for	2019	compared	to	$73.4	million	in	the	prior	year,	consisting	primarily	of	required	

maintenance and general capital across Superior’s segments. The decrease is primarily due to timing of expenditures. 

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

completed during the prior year.

Superior	entered	into	new	leases	with	capital-equivalent	value	of	$37.2	million	for	2019,	compared	to	$16.0	million	in	the	prior	year.	The	

increase	is	primarily	related	to	the	change	in	accounting	policy	which	requires	leases	to	be	recorded	as	a	right-of-use	asset	and	a	lease	

liability.	Leased	assets	include	vehicles	for	the	Energy	Distribution	segments	to	support	growth	and	replace	aging	vehicles,	renewing	railcar	

leases	in	the	Specialty	Chemicals	segment	and	timing	of	renewing	property	leases.	Approximately	50%	of	the	additions	to	leased	assets	

relate	to	vehicles	in	the	Energy	Distribution	segments.

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

through the lease liability.

Corporate Administration Costs

Corporate	administration	costs	are	$35.2	million	for	2019	a	decrease	of	$7.1	million,	compared	to	$42.3	million	in	the	prior	year.	The	

decrease	from	the	prior	year	is	primarily	due	to	lower	transaction	related	costs	partially	offset	by	higher	incentive	plan	costs	due	to	share	

price appreciation.

16  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

  
Finance Expense 

Finance	expense	was	$114.3	million	for	the	year	ended	2019,	an	increase	of	$24.0	million,	compared	to	$90.3	million	in	the	prior	year.	The	

increase	is	primarily	due	to	higher	average	debt	for	the	year	compared	to	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	the	financing	related	to	the	NGL	

acquisition	and	the	tuck-in	acquisitions	completed	in	2018	and	to	a	lesser	extent	the	impact	of	adopting	IFRS	16.	

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

Year Ended December 31

2019

29.9

2018

39.5

For	2019,	Superior	incurred	$29.9	million	in	costs	related	primarily	to	the	integration	of	NGL,	and	to	a	lesser	extent	the	tuck-in	acquisitions.	

The	costs	in	the	prior	year	related	primarily	to	the	acquisition	of	NGL	and	tuck-in	acquisitions	and	to	a	lesser	extent	the	integration	of	

Canwest	Propane.

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	expense	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019	was	$25.0	million,	comprised	of	$13.1	million	in	cash	income	tax	expense	

and	$11.9	million	in	deferred	income	tax	expense.	This	compares	to	a	total	income	tax	recovery	of	$0.3	million	in	the	prior	year,	which	

consisted	of	a	cash	income	tax	expense	of	$1.9	million	and	a	$2.2	million	deferred	income	tax	recovery.

Cash	income	taxes	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019	was	$13.1	million	(2018	–	$1.9	million),	consisting	of	income	taxes	in	Canada	of	

$3.8	million	(2018	–	$2.1	million	recovery),	income	taxes	in	the	U.S.	of	$3.8	million	(2018	–	$0.5	million),	income	taxes	in	Chile	of	$3.2	million	

(2018	–	$2.2	million),	and	income	taxes	in	Luxembourg	of	$2.3	million	(2018	–	$1.3	million).	Deferred	income	tax	expense	for	2019	was	

$11.9 million	(2018	–	$2.2	million	recovery),	resulting	in	a	net	deferred	income	tax	asset	of	$12.7	million	as	at	December	31,	2019.

Canada

Tax basis

Non-capital losses

Canadian scientific research expenditures

Investment tax credits

United States

Tax basis

Non-capital losses

Chile

Tax basis

(millions of dollars)

341.1

24.4

214.0

84.2

1,298.9

212.0

19.6

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  17

 
 
Financial Outlook

Superior	achieved	its	2019	Adjusted	EBITDA	guidance	of	$524.5	million	which	was	at	the	top	of	the	guidance	range	of	$490	million	to	

$530 million.	Superior	is	introducing	its	2020	Adjusted	EBITDA	guidance	range	of	$475	million	to	$515	million,	based	on	the	midpoint	of	

the	2020	Adjusted	EBITDA	guidance	range,	this	is	a	6%	decrease	compared	to	the	full	year	2019	Adjusted	EBITDA	of	$524.5	million,	and	

a	3%	decrease	from	the	midpoint	of	the	2019	Adjusted	EBITDA	guidance	range,	which	assumed	normal	weather	and	wholesale	market	

fundamentals.	The	decrease	compared	to	2019	is	primarily	due	to	lower	expected	EBITDA	from	operations	for	Specialty	Chemicals	and	

Canadian	Propane,	partially	offset	by	an	increase	in	expected	EBITDA	from	operations	for	U.S.	Propane.

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	2020	midpoint	guidance	are:

 » Weather	is	expected	to	be	consistent	with	the	average	temperature	for	the	last	five	years;

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

 »  Superior estimates maintenance and non-recurring capital expenditures net of disposals and including vehicle leases to be in the range 

of $140	million	to	$160	million	in	2020.	Total	lease	payments	are	expected	to	be	in	the	range	of	$45	million	to	$55	million;

 »  Superior is substantively hedged for its estimated U.S. dollar exposure for 2020, and due to the hedge position, a change in the Canadian 

to	U.S.	dollar	exchange	rate	for	2020	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	$0.77	for	2020	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;

 » 	Canadian,	Chilean	and	U.S.	based	cash	taxes	are	expected	to	be	in	the	range	of	$10	million	to	$20	million	for	2020	based	on	existing	

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

Canadian Propane Distribution

 » Wholesale	propane	and	natural	gas	liquid	fundamentals	related	to	basis	differentials	are	not	anticipated	to	be	as	strong	as	2019;

 » Canadian	restrictions	on	rail	movement	and	rail	blockages	arising	from	protests	are	only	expected	to	be	temporary;	

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

 » Operating	costs	are	expected	to	be	consistent	with	2019.

U.S. Propane Distribution

 » Wholesale propane prices are anticipated to be modestly higher than 2019;

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

 » 	Continue	to	realize	synergies	from	the	NGL	acquisition	and	tuck-in	acquisitions	primarily	through	supply	chain	efficiencies,	margin	

management improvements and operational expense savings.

Specialty Chemicals

 » Chlor-Alkali	sales	prices	and	volumes	for	caustic	soda,	hydrochloric	acid	and	caustic	potash	are	anticipated	to	be	lower	than	2019;

 » Electrical	mill	rates	are	expected	to	be	consistent	to	modestly	higher	than	2019;

 » Canadian	restrictions	on	rail	movement	and	rail	blockages	arising	from	protests	are	only	expected	to	be	temporary;	and

 » Average	plant	utilization	will	approximate	90%–95%	in	2020.

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.”

18  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Debt Management Update

Superior	remains	focused	on	managing	both	its	debt	and	its	leverage	ratio.	Superior’s	Total	Debt	to	Adjusted	EBITDA	leverage	ratio	for	the	

trailing	twelve	months	was	3.7x	as	at	December	31,	2019,	compared	to	4.1x	at	December	31,	2018.	The	decrease	in	the	leverage	ratio	from	

December	31,	2018	was	due	to	the	higher	Adjusted	EBITDA,	and	the	impact	of	foreign	exchange	on	Superior’s	U.S.	denominated	debt.	The	

leverage	ratio	is	currently	above	the	long-term	target	of	3.0x.	Superior	anticipates	the	Total	Debt	to	Adjusted	EBITDA	leverage	ratio	to	be	in	

the range of 3.4x to 3.8x as at December 31, 2020 as cash generated from operations and the expected cash savings related to the Dividend 

Reinvestment	Program,	which	are	anticipated	to	be	consistent	with	historical	participation	rates,	are	used	to	repay	debt.	

Leverage	ratio,	Senior	Debt	and	Credit	Facility	EBITDA	are	Non-GAAP	measures,	see	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”.

Borrowing

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

fees	was	$1,956.1	million	as	at	December	31,	2019,	an	increase	of	$69.8	million	from	$1,886.3	million	as	at	December	31,	2018.	The	increase	

is	primarily	due	to	the	adoption	of	IFRS	16,	see	Changes	in	accounting	policy,	and	was	partially	offset	by	increased	EBITDA	from	operations	

and to a lesser extent the impact of the stronger Canadian dollar on U.S. denominated debt.

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)

Lease liabilities

Total

As at December 31, 2019

Total
Amount

750.0

1,224.7

27.7

234.4

Borrowing

Letters of
Credit Issued

469.3

1,224.7

27.7

234.4

31.3

—

—

—

Amount
Available

249.4

—

—

—

2,236.8

1,956.1

31.3

249.4

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

(2)  Accounts receivable factoring and deferred consideration.

On	May	8,	2019,	the	syndicated	credit	facility	was	extended	to	mature	on	May	8,	2024	with	no	material	changes	to	the	financial	covenants.	

Net Working Capital

Consolidated	net	working	capital	was	$49.9	million	as	at	December	31,	2019,	a	decrease	of	$47.4	million	from	$97.3	million	as	at	

December 31,	2018.	The	decrease	is	primarily	due	to	higher	customer	deposits	related	primarily	to	the	NGL	acquisition	and	the	impact	

of the	sale	of	certain	refined	fuel	assets,	and	lower	wholesale	propane	pricing.

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,	2019	and	the	covenant	details	are	found	in	the	credit	facility	

documents	filed	in	the	System	for	Electronic	Document	Analysis	and	Retrieval	(“SEDAR”).	

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  19

 
Pension Plans

As	at	December	31,	2019,	Superior	had	an	estimated	defined	benefit	going	concern	surplus	of	approximately	$25.9	million	(December	31,	

2018	–	$7.8	million	surplus)	and	a	pension	solvency	surplus	of	approximately	$11.0	million	(December	31,	2018	–	$0.7	million	deficiency).	

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 

Lease Liabilities

Operating leases(2)

US$ foreign currency forward sales contracts

Natural gas, diesel, WTI, butane, propane,  
 and heating oil(3)

Total contractual obligations

Note(1)

14

16

16

16

16

Total

1,721.7

234.4

2.5

287.1

120.4
2,366.1

Payments Due In

2021–2022

2023–2024

Thereafter

11.6

73.4

0.4

138.3

8.1
231.8

875.3

45.6

—

23.0

—
943.9

824.7

63.0

—

—

—
887.7

2020

10.1

52.4

2.1

125.8

112.3
302.7

(1)	 Notes	to	the	December	31,	2019	audited	consolidated	financial	statements.

(2)	 Operating	leases	comprise	Superior’s	off-balance-sheet	obligations	and	are	contracts	that	do	not	meet	the	definition	of	a	lease	under	IFRS	16	or	are	exempt.

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

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.

Shareholders’ Capital

As	at	December	31,	2019,	the	following	common	shares	were	issued	and	outstanding:	

Balance as at December 31, 2019

Dividends Declared to Shareholders

Issued Number  
of Common 
Shares (Millions)

Share  
Capital

174.9

$  2,339.9

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	2019,	above,	and	“Summary	of	Cash	

Flow”	for	additional	details.	

Dividends	declared	to	shareholders	for	2019	were	$125.9	million	or	$0.72	per	share	compared	to	$114.4	million	or	$0.72	for	2018.	

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

Superior	has	a	Dividend	Reinvestment	and	Optional	Share	Purchase	Plan	(“DRIP”)	that	was	not	utilized	in	2019.	On	January	28,	2020	

Superior announced	that	it	will	reinstate	the	DRIP	commencing	with	the	anticipated	February	dividend	which	would	be	payable	on	or	about	

March 13, 2020.

20  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Summary of Cash Flow

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

(millions of dollars)

Cash flows from operating activities

Investing activities:

Purchase of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment

  Acquisitions, net of cash acquired and assets sold

Proceeds on sale of assets

Cash flows used in investing activities

Financing activities:

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

  Redemption of 6.5% convertible debentures

Proceeds from 7.0% 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 (used in) from financing activities

  Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

  Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year

Effect of translation of foreign currency-denominated cash 

Cash and cash equivalents, end of year

Year Ended December 31

2019

423.2

2018

263.0

(135.9)

7.1

(60.1)

—

(105.8)

22.7

(1,259.6)

91.9

(188.9)

(1,250.8)

(63.4)

—

—

—

(41.5)

—

(0.6)

(125.9)

(231.4)

2.9

23.9

(0.3)

26.5

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

Cash	flows	from	operating	activities	for	2019	was	$423.2	million,	an	increase	of	$160.2	million,	from	the	prior	year.	The	increase	is	a	result	

of	higher	EBITDA	from	operations	compared	to	the	prior	year,	and	positive	cashflows	from	changes	in	non-cash	operating	working	capital	

compared	to	a	cash-outflow	in	the	prior	year	partially	offset	by	higher	interest	paid	due	to	higher	average	debt	levels	due	to	acquisitions.

Cash	flow	used	in	investing	activities	for	2019	was	$188.9	million,	a	decrease	from	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	the	NGL	acquisition	and	to	

a	lesser	extent	the	tuck-in	acquisitions	completed	in	the	prior	year.

Cash	flow	used	in	financing	activities	was	$231.4	million,	a	decrease	of	$1,211.5	million	from	the	prior	year,	primarily	due	to	the	financing	to	

fund the NGL acquisition in the prior year.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  21

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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, 2019 Superior has hedged approximately 41% of estimated U.S. dollar exposure for 2020 and approximately 28% for 

2021.	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

2020

125.8

1.29

2021

86.8

1.30

2022

51.5

1.30

2023

23.0

1.33

2024

—

—

Total

287.1

1.30

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	16	to	the	audited	consolidated	financial	statements	for	

the year ended December 31, 2019.

Sensitivity Analysis 

Superior’s	estimated	cash	flow	sensitivity	in	2019	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%

1%

4%

1%

2%

$  12.5

$   0.07

$    7.6 

$  0.04 

$    6.0 

$  0.03 

$  15.4 

$  0.09 

$    8.3 

$  0.05 

$    4.2 

$  0.02 

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

$         0.01

Change in interest rates

0.50%

1%

15%

$    7.0 

$  0.04 

$    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 U.S. 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. 

22  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

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, 2019.

Effectiveness

An	evaluation	of	the	effectiveness	of	Superior’s	DC&P	and	ICFR	was	conducted	as	at	December	31,	2019	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,	2019.	

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	year	ended	December	31,	2019.	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, the purchase price allocation for business combinations and the assessment of potential provision for asset 

retirement obligations.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

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

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.	

IFRS 16 sets out the principles for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of leases. A contract is, or contains, a lease if 

the	contract	conveys	the	right	to	control	the	use	of	an	identified	asset	for	a	period	of	time	in	exchange	for	consideration.	

The Company’s operating leases are primarily railcars and, to a lesser extent, property and equipment. The Company adopted IFRS 16 Leases 

on	January	1,	2019	using	the	modified	retrospective	approach	and	accordingly	the	information	presented	for	2018	has	not	been	restated	

and remains as previously reported under IAS 17 and related interpretations. In applying IFRS 16 the Company has elected to record right-

of-use assets based on the corresponding lease liability. 

Right-of-use	assets	and	lease	obligations	of	$178.6	million	were	recorded	as	of	January	1,	2019,	with	no	net	impact	on	retained	earnings.	

When	measuring	lease	liabilities,	the	Company	discounted	lease	payments	using	its	incremental	borrowing	rate	for	similar	collateral	and	

term at January 1, 2019. The discount rate applied ranges from 5.4% to 8.3%. 

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  23

 
The	adoption	of	IFRS	16	has	no	impact	on	Superior’s	underlying	business	economics,	how	the	segments	are	operated,	future	business	plans	

or	the	cash	on	hand.	There	will	be	an	increase	in	EBITDA	as	the	operating	lease	expense	will	now	be	recorded	as	interest	and	depreciation.

The	impact	on	the	Company’s	financial	statements	as	a	result	of	the	adoption	of	IFRS	16	is	as	follows:	

 » 	The	balance	sheet	has	been	grossed	up,	as	substantially	all	leases	are	brought	onto	the	balance	sheet,	including	lease	renewals	where	

management	is	“reasonably	certain”	of	exercising	the	renewal	option,

 » Negative	net	earnings	and	EPS	impact	earlier	in	the	lease	term	on	an	individual	lease	basis,

 » 	No	impact	on	the	cumulative	net	earnings	and	EPS	impact	over	the	term	of	the	lease.

The	table	below	shows	the	impact	on	Earnings	from	implementing	IFRS	16.

Propane Distribution

For the three months ended December 31, 2019 (millions of dollars)

Net earnings reported

Add back (deduct): 

Depreciation of right of use assets

Financial expense related to IFRS 16

Lease payments related to the adoption of IFRS 16

Net income before taxes

Income tax expense

Net income without IFRS 16 

Canada

64.7

2.7

0.8

(3.2)

65.0

—

65.0

U.S.

Specialty Chemicals

Corporate

54.3

2.5

0.1

(0.5)

56.4

—

56.4

10.8

(55.2)

6.9

1.9

(7.3)

12.3

—

12.3

0.2

—

—

(55.0)

(1.0)

(56.0)

For the year ended December 31, 2019 (millions of dollars)

Net earnings reported

Add back (deduct): 

Depreciation of right of use assets

Financial expense related to IFRS 16

Lease payments related to the adoption of IFRS 16

Net income before taxes

Income tax expense

Net income without IFRS 16 

Lease Liability (millions of dollars)

Opening IFRS 16 adjustment

Reclassification from previously recognized finance lease liabilities

Lease payments

Finance expense on lease liabilities

Lease liabilities assumed as part of a business combination

Additions

Impact of changes in foreign exchange and other

Lease liability, end of the year

Propane Distribution

Canada

130.2

9.1

2.2

(9.3)

132.2

—

132.2

U.S.

Specialty Chemicals

Corporate

79.4

4.9

1.0

(3.1)

82.2

—

82.2

47.9

(114.9)

22.2

6.9

(26.1)

50.9

—

50.9

0.3

0.1

(0.3)

(114.8)

(2.1)

(116.9)

Propane Distribution

Canada

U.S.

Specialty Chemicals

Corporate

34.6

33.9

(16.8)

3.8

0.5

17.2

(0.5)

72.7

12.5

29.9

(11.6)

2.5

3.1

10.8

(0.9)

46.3

129.8

—

(26.1)

6.9

—

9.2

(5.9)

113.9

1.7

—

(0.3)

0.1

—

—

—

1.5

Total

74.6

12.3

2.8

(11.0)

78.7

(1.0)

77.7

Total

142.6

36.5

10.2

(38.8)

150.5

(2.1)

148.4

Total

178.6

63.8

(54.8)

13.3

3.6

37.2

(7.3)

234.4

Included	in	the	above	lease	liability,	as	at	December	31,	2019,	are	vehicle	and	other	fleet	lease	obligations	of	$73.0	million	(December	31,	

2018	–	$63.8	million).

24  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
IFRIC Interpretation 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatment

The	Interpretation	addresses	the	accounting	for	income	taxes	when	tax	treatments	involve	uncertainty	that	affects	the	application	of	

IAS 12 Income	Taxes.	It	does	not	apply	to	taxes	or	levies	outside	the	scope	of	IAS	12,	nor	does	it	specifically	include	requirements	relating	

to interest	and	penalties	associated	with	uncertain	tax	treatments.	The	Interpretation	specifically	addresses	the	following:

 » Whether an entity considers uncertain tax treatments separately

 » The	assumptions	an	entity	makes	about	the	examination	of	tax	treatments	by	taxation	authorities

 » How	an	entity	determines	taxable	profit	(tax	loss),	tax	bases,	unused	tax	losses,	unused	tax	credits	and	tax	rates

 » How	an	entity	considers	changes	in	facts	and	circumstances

The	Company	determines	whether	to	consider	each	uncertain	tax	treatment	separately	or	together	with	one	or	more	other	uncertain	tax	

treatments and uses the approach that better predicts the resolution of the uncertainty.

The	Company	applies	significant	judgement	in	identifying	uncertainties	over	income	tax	treatments.	Since	the	Company	operates	in	a	

complex	multinational	environment,	it	assessed	whether	the	Interpretation	had	an	impact	on	its	consolidated	financial	statements.

Upon	adoption	of	the	Interpretation,	the	Company	considered	whether	it	has	any	uncertain	tax	positions,	particularly	those	relating	to	

transfer	pricing.	The	Company’s	and	the	subsidiaries’	tax	filings	in	different	jurisdictions	include	deductions	related	to	transfer	pricing	and	the	

taxation authorities may challenge those tax treatments. The Company determined, based on its tax compliance and transfer pricing study 

that	it	is	probable	that	its	tax	treatments	(including	those	for	the	subsidiaries)	will	be	accepted	by	the	taxation	authorities.	The	Interpretation	

did	not	have	an	impact	on	the	consolidated	financial	statements	of	the	Company.

New and Revised IFRS Standards Not Yet Effective

IFRS 3 – Business Combinations

In	October	2018,	the	IASB	issued	amendments	to	the	definition	of	a	business	in	IFRS	3	Business Combinations to help entities determine 

whether	an	acquired	set	of	activities	and	assets	is	a	business	or	not.	They	clarify	the	minimum	requirements	for	a	business,	remove	the	

assessment	of	whether	market	participants	are	capable	of	replacing	any	missing	elements,	and	add	guidance	to	help	entities	assess	whether	

an	acquired	process	is	substantive,	narrow	the	definitions	of	a	business	and	of	outputs,	and	introduce	an	optional	fair	value	concentration	

test.	New	illustrative	examples	were	provided	along	with	the	amendments.

Since	the	amendments	apply	prospectively	to	transactions	or	other	events	that	occur	on	or	after	the	date	of	first	application,	the	Company	

will	not	be	affected	by	these	amendments	on	the	date	of	transition.

IAS 1 and IAS 8 – Presentation of Financial Statements and Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting 
Estimates and Errors

In October 2018, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements and IAS 8 Accounting Policies, Changes in 

Accounting Estimates and Errors	to	align	the	definition	of	‘material’	across	the	standards	and	to	clarify	certain	aspects	of	the	definition.	The	

new	definition	states	that,	“Information	is	material	if	omitting,	misstating	or	obscuring	it	could	reasonably	be	expected	to	influence	decisions	

that	the	primary	users	of	general	purpose	financial	statements	make	on	the	basis	of	those	financial	statements,	which	provide	financial	

information	about	a	specific	reporting	entity”.

The	amendments	to	the	definition	of	material	is	not	expected	to	have	a	significant	impact	on	the	Company’s	consolidated	financial	

statements.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  25

 
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.	Interest	expense	included	in	AOCF	is	equal	to	finance	expense	as	

defined	by	IFRS,	adjusted	for	unwinding	of	discount	on	debentures,	borrowing	and	decommissioning	liabilities	and	other	non-recurring	

items.	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	Propane	Distribution	segments,	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	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	earnings	before	income	taxes.

26  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Adjusted Gross Profit

Adjusted	gross	profit	represents	revenue	less	cost	of	sales	adjusted	for	realized	gains	and	losses	on	commodity	derivative	instruments	

related	to	risk	management.	Managements	uses	Adjusted	Gross	Profit	to	set	margin	targets	and	measure	results.	Unrealized	gains	and	

losses on commodity derivative instruments are excluded because of the accounting mismatch that exists as a result of the customer 

contract	not	being	included	in	the	determination	of	the	fair	value	for	this	risk	management	activity.

Credit Facility EBITDA, Senior Debt and Leverage Ratio

Credit	Facility	EBITDA	is	defined	as	Adjusted	EBITDA	calculated	on	a	12-month	trailing	basis	giving	pro	forma	effect	to	acquisitions	and	

dispositions	adjusted	to	the	first	day	of	the	calculation	period,	and	excludes	the	impact	from	the	adoption	of	IFRS	16	and	EBITDA	from	

undesignated	subsidiaries.	Credit	Facility	EBITDA	is	used	by	Superior	to	calculate	its	debt	covenants	and	other	credit	information.	

Senior	Debt	includes	total	borrowing	before	deferred	financing	fees	and	vehicle	lease	obligations	and	excludes	the	remaining	lease	

obligations. Senior Debt is used by Superior to calculate its debt covenants and other credit information.

To	calculate	the	Leverage	Ratio	divide	Senior	Debt	by	Credit	Facility	EBITDA.	Leverage	Ratio	is	used	by	Superior	and	investors	to	assess	its	

ability	to	service	debt.	Credit	facility	EBITDA	and	Leverage	ratio	are	calculated	as	follows:	

(millions of Canadian dollars)  

Adjusted EBITDA

Deduct the IFRS 16 impact on Adjusted EBITDA

Adjustment for pro-forma acquisition EBITDA, net of EBITDA from undesignated subsidiaries

Credit Facility EBITDA

Senior Debt

Leverage Ratio

Selected Financial Information

(millions of dollars except per share amounts)

GAAP measures:

Total assets 

  Revenue(1)

  Gross profit(1)

  Net earnings (loss) for the year

Per share, basic and diluted

  Cash flows from operating activities 

  Dividends per share

  Current and long-term borrowing(2)

Non-GAAP financial measures(3):

  AOCF

Per share, basic and diluted

  AOCF before transaction and other costs

Per share before transaction and other costs, basic and diluted

Trailing Twelve Months Ended
December 31, 2019

524.5

(38.8)

4.2

489.9

1,794.7

3.7x

2019

2018

3,638.6 

2,852.9

1,213.0

142.6

3,654.0 

2,737.7

948.2

(34.0)

$   0.82

$  (0.22)

423.2

263.0

$   0.72

$   0.72

1,956.1

1,886.3

 376.3

262.8

$   2.15

$   1.66

 406.2

 302.3

$   2.32

$   1.91

(1)	 Revenue	and	gross	profit	has	been	presented	excluding	realized	gains	and	losses	on	commodity	derivative	instruments	and	the	comparative	figures	have	been	

restated.	These	gains	and	losses	are	included	in	other	income	(loss)	in	the	audited	consolidated	financial	statements.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”.

(2)	 Current	and	long-term	borrowing	before	deferred	financing	fees	and	debentures	including	lease	liability.

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

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  27

 
 
 
 
 
 
Fourth Quarter Results

Summary of AOCF

(millions of dollars, except per share amounts)

Revenue(1)

Gross profit(1)

EBITDA from operations(2) 

Corporate operating and administrative costs

Realized losses on foreign currency hedging contracts

Adjusted EBITDA(1,2)

Interest expense 

Cash income tax (expense) recovery

AOCF before transaction costs(2)

Transaction and other costs(3)

AOCF(1,2)

AOCF per share before transaction and other costs, basic and diluted(1,2,3,4)

AOCF per share, basic and diluted(1,2,3,4)

Dividends declared per share(4)

Three Months Ended December 31

2019

821.0

366.0

187.8

(7.5)

(3.6)

176.7

(25.7)

(6.0)

145.0

(5.6)

139.4

2018

889.2

323.5

162.3

(5.3)

(4.0)

153.0

(23.6)

3.3

132.7

(7.5)

125.2

$  0.83

$  0.80

$  0.18

$  0.76

$  0.72

$  0.18

(1)	 Revenue	and	gross	profit	has	been	presented	excluding	realized	gains	and	losses	on	commodity	derivative	instruments	and	the	comparative	figures	have	been	

restated.	These	gains	and	losses	are	included	in	other	income	in	the	audited	consolidated	financial	statements.	For	purposes	of	determining	margin	per	litre	gross	
profit	has	been	adjusted	to	include	realized	gains	and	losses	on	commodity	derivative	instruments.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”.

(2)	 EBITDA	from	operations,	Adjusted	EBITDA,	AOCF	before	transaction	and	other	costs,	AOCF,	and	AOCF	per	share	are	Non-GAAP	measures.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	

Measures”. 

(3)	 Transaction	and	other	costs	for	the	three	months	ended	December	31,	2019	are	primarily	related	to	the	strategic	review	of	Specialty	Chemicals	and	the	integration	of	
NGL	and	other	tuck-in	acquisitions.	For	the	three	months	ended	December	31,	2018	transaction	and	other	costs	are	primarily	related	to	the	acquisition	of	NGL	and	
integration	of	Canwest.	See	“Transaction	and	Other	Costs”	for	further	details.

(4)	 The	weighted	average	number	of	shares	outstanding	for	the	three	months	ended	December	31,	2019	and	2018	is	174.9	million.	There	were	no	dilutive	instruments	

with	respect	to	AOCF	per	share	for	the	three	months	ended	December	31,	2019	and	2018.

Comparable GAAP Financial Information 

(millions of dollars, except per share amounts)

Net earnings (loss) for the period

Net earnings (loss) per share for the period, basic and diluted

Cash flows from operating activities

Cash flows from operating activities per share, basic and diluted

Segmented Information

(millions of dollars)

EBITDA from operations(1)

Canadian Propane Distribution

U.S Propane Distribution

Specialty Chemicals

(1)	

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

28  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Three Months Ended December 31

2019

74.6

2018

(48.3)

$  0.43

$  (0.28)

108.3

41.6

$  0.62

$  0.24

Three Months Ended December 31

2019

2018

75.6

78.2

34.0

187.8

57.8

71.2

33.3

162.3

Fourth Quarter Results Compared to the Prior Year Quarter

Adjusted	EBITDA	for	the	three	months	ended	December	31,	2019	was	$176.7	million,	an	increase	of	$23.7	million	or	15%	compared	to	

the	prior	year	quarter	Adjusted	EBITDA	of	$153.0	million.	The	increase	is	primarily	due	to	higher	EBITDA	from	operations	partially	offset	

by	increased	corporate	costs.	EBITDA	from	operations	increased	$25.5	million	or	16%	compared	to	the	prior	year	quarter	primarily	due	to	

higher	Canadian	Propane	EBITDA	from	operations	and	to	a	lesser	extent	an	increase	in	U.S.	Propane	and	Specialty	Chemicals	EBITDA	from	

operations.	Canadian	Propane	EBITDA	from	operations	was	$75.6	million,	an	increase	of	$17.8	million	or	31%	primarily	due	to	improved	

wholesale	market	fundamentals	and	the	impact	of	adopting	IFRS	16,	see	‘Change	in	accounting	policy’,	partially	offset	by	lower	sales	volumes.	

U.S.	Propane	EBITDA	from	operations	was	$78.2	million,	an	increase	of	$7.0	million	or	10%	primarily	due	to	higher	average	margins,	the	

impact	of	tuck-in	acquisitions	and	the	realization	of	approximately	$6.0	million	in	synergies,	partially	offset	by	lower	sales	volumes.	Specialty	

Chemicals	EBITDA	from	operations	was	$34.0	million,	an	increase	of	$0.7	million	or	2%	primarily	due	to	the	impact	of	adopting	IFRS	16,	see	

‘Change	in	accounting	policy’,	higher	average	chlorate	selling	prices	and	sales	volumes	partially	offset	by	lower	chlor-alkali	sales	volumes	and	

average	sales	prices,	higher	electricity	costs	and	higher	distribution	costs	compared	to	the	prior	year.	Superior	realized	a	loss	on	foreign	

currency	hedging	contracts	of	$3.6	million	compared	to	a	loss	of	$4.0	million	in	the	prior	year	due	to	the	weaker	Canadian	dollar	than	the	

average	hedge	rate.	Corporate	operating	and	administrative	costs	were	$7.5	million	compared	to	$5.3	million	in	the	prior	year	quarter.	The	

increase is primarily due to higher incentive plan costs due to share price appreciation.

AOCF

AOCF	before	transaction	and	other	costs	for	the	three	months	ended	December	31,	2019	was	$145.0	million,	an	increase	of	$12.3	million	

or	9%	from	the	prior	year’s	fourth	quarter	AOCF	before	transaction	and	other	costs	of	$132.7	million.	The	increase	from	the	prior	year	is	

primarily	due	to	higher	Adjusted	EBITDA	discussed	above	partially	offset	by	higher	taxes	and	to	a	lesser	extent	higher	interest	expense.	The	

increase in cash taxes is due to a recovery in the prior year quarter versus an expense in the current quarter and is due to income tax true-

ups	and	higher	earnings.	AOCF	per	share	before	transaction	and	other	costs	was	$0.83	per	share,	an	increase	of	9%	compared	to	the	prior	

year	quarter	of	AOCF	before	transaction	and	other	costs	per	share	of	$0.76.	

AOCF	for	the	three	months	ended	December	31,	2019	was	$139.4	million,	an	increase	of	$14.2	million	or	11%	from	the	prior	year’s	

fourth quarter	AOCF	of	$125.2	million.	AOCF	per	share	of	$0.80	increased	11%	compared	to	the	prior	year	quarter	AOCF	per	share	of	

$0.72.	Transaction	and	other	costs	for	the	three	months	ended	December	31,	2019	were	$5.6	million,	and	consisted	of	transaction	costs	

related	primarily	to	the	strategic	review	of	the	Specialty	Chemicals	division	and	the	integration	of	NGL	and	the	other	tuck-in	acquisitions.	

See “Transaction	and	Other	Costs”	for	further	details.	

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  29

 
Results of Superior’s Operating Segments 

Effective	January	1,	2019,	Superior	changed	its	operating	segments	and	has	changed	the	comparative	figures	to	conform	to	the	current	

presentation.	Superior’s	operating	segments	consists	of	Canadian	Propane	Distribution	which	includes	its	wholesale	business,	U.S.	Propane	

Distribution and Specialty Chemicals.

Canadian Propane Distribution

Canadian Propane Distribution’s condensed operating results:

(millions of dollars)

Revenue(1)

Cost of Sales(1)

Gross profit(1)

Realized gain (loss) on derivatives related to commodity risk management

Adjusted gross profit(1)

Selling, distribution and administrative costs

Add back (deduct):

Amortization and depreciation included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

Transaction, restructuring, and other costs

(Gain) loss on disposal of assets and other

EBITDA from operations(1)

Add back (deduct):

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

Earnings before income tax

Three Months Ended December 31

2019

364.5

(211.6)

152.9

(11.3)

141.6

(84.0)

19.1

0.3

(1.4)

75.6

1.4

(0.3)

(19.1)

8.1

(1.0)

64.7

2018

379.7

(258.9)

120.8

1.8

122.6

(102.4)

28.2

0.7

8.7

57.8

(8.7)

(0.7)

(28.2)

(10.5)

(0.4)

9.3

(1)	 Revenue,	cost	of	sales,	and	gross	profit	has	been	presented	excluding	realized	gains	and	losses	on	commodity	derivative	instruments	and	the	comparative	figures	

have	been	restated.	These	gains	and	losses	are	included	in	other	income	(loss)	in	the	audited	financial	statements.	For	purposes	of	determining	margin	per	litre	gross	
profit	has	been	adjusted	to	include	realized	gains	and	losses	on	commodity	derivative	instruments.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”.

Revenue	for	fourth	quarter	of	2019	was	$364.5	million,	a	decrease	of	$15.2	million	from	the	prior	year	quarter	primarily	due	to	lower	

wholesale	propane	prices	and	to	a	lesser	extent	lower	sales	volumes.	Wholesale	propane	supply	prices	were	lower	reflecting	an	increase	

in	propane	inventory	levels	in	the	U.S.,	driven	by	lower	exports	out	of	North	America	and	the	impact	from	lower	average	West	Texas	

Intermediate crude oil prices compared to the prior year quarter. 

Canadian Propane Adjusted Gross Profit 

(millions of dollars)

Propane distribution

Realized gain (loss) on derivatives related to commodity risk management

Propane distribution adjusted gross profit

Other services

Adjusted gross profit

Three Months Ended December 31

2019

147.3

(11.3)

136.0

5.6

141.6

2018

114.8

1.8

116.6

6.0

122.6

30  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Propane	distribution	adjusted	gross	profit	for	the	fourth	quarter	of	2019	was	$136.0	million,	an	increase	of	$19.4	million,	from	the	prior	

year	quarter	primarily	due	to	improved	wholesale	market	fundamentals	compared	to	the	prior	year	quarter,	partially	offset	by	lower	sales	

volumes.	Total	sales	volumes	were	753	million	litres,	a	decrease	of	12	million	litres	or	2%,	primarily	due	to	lower	wholesale	volumes.	Average	

weather	across	Canada	for	fourth	quarter	of	2019,	as	measured	by	degree	days	was	2%	warmer	than	the	prior	year	and	2%	colder	than	the	

five-year	average.	Residential	sales	volumes	were	consistent	with	the	prior	year	quarter.	Commercial	sales	volumes	decreased	by	3	million	

litres	or	3%	due	to	warmer	weather	in	Eastern	Canada.	Oilfield	volumes	decreased	by	4	million	litres	or	7%,	due	to	less	drilling	activity	in	

Western	Canada.	Industrial	volumes	decreased	by	2	million	litres	or	3%	due	to	warmer	weather	and	a	reduction	in	propane	consumption	

by mining customers. Motor fuels sales volumes decreased by 3 million litres or 7% from the prior year quarter due to competitive pressure 

and	lower	customer	demand.	Wholesale	propane	volumes	were	10	million	litres	or	3%	lower	than	the	prior	year	primarily	due	to	lower	spot	

sales opportunities.

Average	propane	sales	margins	for	the	fourth	quarter	of	2019	was	18.1	cents	per	litre,	a	19%	increase	from	15.2	cents	per	litre	in	the	prior	

year	quarter.	The	increase	in	average	propane	margins	is	a	result	of	the	improved	wholesale	market	fundamentals	compared	to	the	prior	

year	and	effective	margin	management	in	a	declining	wholesale	propane	price	environment.

Other	services	gross	profit	primarily	includes	equipment	rental,	installation,	repair	and	maintenance	and	customer	minimum	use	charges.	

Other	services	gross	profit	was	$5.6	million,	relatively	consistent	with	the	prior	year	quarter.	

Canadian Propane Distribution Sales Volumes

Volumes by End-Use Application(1)

(millions of litres)

Residential

Commercial

Oilfield

Industrial

Motor Fuels

Wholesale

Other

Total

(1)	 Comparative	figures	have	been	reclassified	to	reflect	the	current	period	presentation.

Volumes by Region(1)

(millions of litres)

Western Canada

Eastern Canada

Atlantic Canada

United States

Total

Three Months Ended December 31

2019

59

102

55

58

41

375

63

753

2018

59

105

59

60

44

385

53

765

Three Months Ended December 31

2019

2018

306

155

37

255

753

308

177

36

244

765

(1)	 Regions:	Western	Canada	region	consists	of	British	Columbia,	Alberta,	Saskatchewan,	Manitoba,	Northwest	Ontario,	Yukon,	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	California,	Maine,	Idaho,	Kansas,	Michigan,	Washington,	Alaska,	North	Dakota,	Pennsylvania,	and	
New	York.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  31

 
Selling, Distribution and Administrative Costs

Selling,	distribution	and	administrative	costs	were	$84.0	million,	a	decrease	of	$18.4	million	or	18%	over	the	prior	year	quarter.	The	decrease	

in	selling,	distribution	and	administrative	costs	is	primarily	due	to	a	lower	depreciation	and	amortization	expense,	a	loss	on	disposal	of	assets	

in	the	prior	year	quarter	compared	to	a	gain	in	the	current	period	and	to	a	lesser	extent	incremental	synergies	related	to Canwest.	

Net Earnings 

Earnings	before	income	tax	of	$64.7	million	increased	by	$55.4	million	over	the	prior	year,	as	a	result	of	increased	gross	profit,	lower	SD&A	

and	gain	on	derivative	financial	instruments	compared	to	a	loss	in	the	prior	year	quarter.

U.S. Propane Distribution

U.S. Propane Distribution’s condensed operating results:

(millions of dollars)

Revenue

Cost of Sales

Gross profit 

Realized gain (loss) on derivatives related to commodity risk management

Adjusted gross profit(1)

Selling, distribution and administrative costs

Add back (deduct):

Amortization and depreciation included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

Transaction, restructuring, and other costs

Loss on disposal of assets and other

EBITDA from operations(1)

Add back (deduct):

(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

Earnings before income tax

Three Months Ended December 31

2019

295.3

(137.2)

158.1

(3.4)

154.7

(102.9)

23.4

2.5

0.5

78.2

(0.5)

(2.5)

(23.4)

3.6

(1.1)

54.3

2018

344.7

(202.7)

142.0

3.8

145.8

(111.5)

24.4

4.0

8.5

71.2

(8.5)

(4.0)

(24.4)

(12.9)

(1.6)

19.8

(1)	 Revenue,	cost	of	sales,	and	gross	profit	has	been	presented	excluding	realized	gains	and	losses	on	commodity	derivative	instruments	and	the	comparative	figures	
have	been	restated.	These	gains	and	losses	are	included	in	other	income	in	the	audited	financial	statements.	For	purposes	of	determining	margin	per	litre	gross	
profit	has	been	adjusted	to	include	realized	gains	and	losses	on	commodity	derivative	instruments.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”.

Revenue	for	fourth	quarter	of	2019	was	$295.3	million,	a	decrease	of	$49.4	million	from	the	prior	year	quarter	primarily	due	to	lower	

wholesale	propane	supply	prices,	and	to	a	lesser	extent	the	impact	of	lower	sales	volumes	and	the	stronger	Canadian	dollar	on	the	

translation	of	U.S.	denominated	revenues	partially	offset	by	incremental	revenue	from	tuck-in	acquisitions.	Wholesale	propane	prices	

decreased	reflecting	higher	inventory	levels	in	the	U.S.	driven	by	lower	exports	out	of	North	America	and	the	impact	of	lower	average	

West Texas	Intermediate	crude	oil	prices	compared	to	the	prior	year	quarter.	

32  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

U.S. Propane Adjusted Gross Profit

(millions of dollars)

Propane distribution

Realized gain (loss) on derivatives related to commodity risk management

Propane distribution adjusted gross profit

Other services

Adjusted gross profit

Three Months Ended December 31

2019

143.9

(3.4)

140.5

14.2

154.7

2018

129.2

3.8

133.0

12.8

145.8

Propane	distribution	adjusted	gross	profit	for	fourth	quarter	of	2019	was	$140.5	million,	an	increase	of	$7.5	million	or	6%	from	the	prior	

year	quarter	primarily	due	to	higher	average	unit	margins	related	to	marketing	initiatives,	including	margin	management	in	a	lower	wholesale	

propane	price	environment	and	the	impact	of	a	stronger	Canadian	dollar	compared	to	the	prior	year,	partially	offset	by	lower	sales	volumes.

Residential	sales	volumes	decreased	by	15	million	litres	or	5%	from	the	prior	year	quarter	due	primarily	to	warmer	weather	partially	offset	by	

the	impact	of	the	tuck-in	acquisitions.	Average	weather	across	markets	where	U.S.	propane	operates	were	3%	warmer	for	the	fourth	quarter	

of	2019	compared	to	the	prior	year	quarter	and	7%	colder	than	the	five-year	average.	Commercial	volumes	decreased	by	4	million	litres	or	

4%	compared	to	the	prior	year	quarter	primarily	to	lower	distillate	sales	related	to	competitive	pressures,	partially	offset	by	incremental	sales	

volumes	related	to	the	tuck-in	acquisitions.	Wholesale	volumes	decreased	by	11	million	litres	or	55%	due	to	competitive	pressures.

Average	U.S.	propane	distribution	sales	margins	were	38.9	cents	per	litre,	an	increase	of	14%	from	34.0	cents	per	litre	in	the	prior	year	

quarter.	Sales	margins	improved	primarily	due	to	sales	and	marketing	initiatives,	including	effective	margin	management	in	a	declining	

wholesale	propane	price	environment	and	the	realization	of	synergies	partially	offset	by	the	impact	of	the	stronger	Canadian	dollar	on	the	

translation	of	U.S.	denominated	gross	profit.

Other	services	gross	profit	primarily	includes	equipment	rental,	installation,	repair	and	maintenance,	and	customer	minimum	use	charges.	

Other	service	gross	profit	was	$14.2	million,	an	increase	of	11%	over	the	prior	year	quarter.	The	increase	is	primarily	due	to	the	impact	of	

tuck-in	acquisitions.

U.S. Propane Distribution Sales Volumes

End-Use Application(1) 

(millions of litres)

Residential

Commercial

Wholesale

Total

Three Months Ended December 31

2019

264

88

9

361

2018

279

92

20

391

(1) 

Includes	heating	oil,	propane,	diesel	and	gasoline	sold	in	over	twenty-two	states	primarily	in	the	Eastern	United	States	and	California.

Selling, Distribution and Administrative Costs

SD&A	costs	were	$102.9	million,	a	decrease	of	$8.6	million	or	8%	over	the	prior	year	quarter.	The	decrease	in	SD&A	costs	was	primarily	

due	to	a	lower	loss	on	disposal	of	assets	in	the	current	period,	lower	transaction,	restructuring	and	other	costs	and	to	a	lesser	extent	

incremental	synergies	realized	as	a	result	of	the	integration	of	NGL.	This	was	partially	offset	by	the	impact	of	tuck-in	acquisitions.

Earnings

Earnings	before	tax	of	$54.3	million	increased	by	$34.5	million	over	the	prior	year	quarter	primarily	due	to	increased	adjusted	gross	profit,	

lower	SD&A	costs,	and	to	a	lesser	extent	the	impact	of	tuck-in	acquisitions.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  33

 
Specialty Chemicals

Specialty Chemicals’ condensed operating results for the three months ended December 31, 2019 and 2018:

(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

Amortization included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

Loss on disposal of assets and impairment

Transaction, restructuring and other costs

EBITDA from operations(2)

Add back (deduct):

Transaction, restructuring and other costs

Depreciation included in cost of sales

Amortization included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

(Loss) on disposal of assets and impairment

Unrealized gain on foreign currency translation of lease liabilities

Finance Expense

Earnings before income tax

Three Months Ended December 31

2018

$ per MT 

818

(546)

272

(189)

78

1

162

2019

$ per MT 

810

(534)

276

(216)

55

43

18

(6)

170

161.2

(106.2)

55.0

(42.9)

11.0

8.5

3.5

(1.1)

34.0

1.1

(11.0)

(8.5)

(3.5)

1.0

(2.3)

10.8

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

(1)	 Gross	Profit	per	MT	after	adding	back	depreciation	included	in	cost	of	sales	for	2019	was	$331/MT	and	for	2018	was	$350/MT.

(2)	 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

2019

120

78

1

199

2018

117

84

1

202

Revenue	for	the	fourth	quarter	of	2019	of	$161.2	million	decreased	by	$4.2	million	or	3%	from	the	prior	year	fourth	quarter	primarily	due	

to	lower	average	selling	prices	and	sales	volumes	for	caustic	soda	and	hydrochloric	acid	partially	offset	by	higher	average	selling	prices	and	

sales volumes for sodium chlorate and to a lesser extent higher sales volumes for caustic potash. 

Sodium	chlorate	sales	volumes	increased	by	3	thousand	MTs	or	3%	compared	to	the	prior	year	quarter	primarily	due	to	lower	demand	

in the prior year quarter in areas impacted by hurricane damage. The average selling price increased by 3% due to price increases and 

customer	mix	partially	offset	by	the	impact	of	the	stronger	Canadian	dollar	on	US	denominated	sales	in	the	fourth	quarter	compared	to	

the prior	year	quarter.

Chlor-alkali	sales	volumes	decreased	by	6	thousand	MTs	or	7%	due	to	lower	hydrochloric	acid,	caustic	soda	and	chlorine	sales	volumes	

partially	offset	by	higher	caustic	potash	sales	volumes.	Hydrochloric	acid	sales	volumes	decreased	16%	primarily	due	to	lower	demand	

from	the	U.S.	oil	and	gas	sector	related	to	less	rig	activity.	Caustic	soda	sales	volumes	were	18%	lower	compared	to	the	prior	year	quarter	

primarily	due	to	competitive	pressures	related	to	weaker	exports	resulting	in	increased	domestic	supply.	Caustic	potash	sales	volumes	

increased 21% primarily due to increased demand in the agriculture and de-icing sectors. 

Chlorite	sales	volumes	were	consistent	with	the	prior	year	quarter.	

34  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
Cost	of	sales	for	the	quarter	of	$106.2	million	was	$4.1	million	or	4%	lower	than	in	the	prior	year	quarter.	The	decrease	is	primarily	due	to	

lower	depreciation	compared	to	the	prior	year	quarter.

Gross	profit	for	the	fourth	quarter	was	$55.0	million,	consistent	with	the	prior	year	quarter	as	lower	revenue	was	offset	by	lower	

depreciation expense. 

Selling,	distribution	and	administrative	costs	of	$42.9	million	were	$4.8	million	or	13%	higher	than	in	the	prior	year	quarter	primarily	due	to	

impairment	recorded	in	the	quarter,	foreign	exchange	losses	versus	gains	in	the	prior	year	quarter,	and	higher	depreciation	expense	offset	

by	lower	distribution	costs	than	the	prior	year	quarter,	both	resulting	from	the	adoption	of	IFRS	16.

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 leased assets

Total expenditures including finance leases

Three Months Ended December 31

2019

25.2

26.3

51.5

(1.2)

16.9

67.2

17.8

85.0

2018

11.8

40.5

52.3

(8.6)

54.1

97.8

10.2

108.0

Efficiency,	process	improvement	and	growth	related	expenditures	were	$25.2	million	in	the	fourth	quarter	of	2019	compared	to	

$11.8 million	in	the	prior	year	quarter.	The	increase	over	the	prior	year	is	primarily	due	to	integration	activity	and	costs	incurred	to	expand	

chlorate	plants	located	in	Quebec	and	Georgia,	and	timing	of	expenditures.

Maintenance	capital	expenditures	were	$26.3	million	in	the	fourth	quarter	compared	to	$40.5	million	in	the	prior	year	quarter,	a	decrease	

of $14.2	million	mainly	due	to	timing	of	expenditures	and	tank	refurbishment	costs	in	the	Energy	Distribution	segments.

Proceeds	on	disposition	were	$1.2	million	in	the	fourth	quarter	of	2019	compared	to	$8.6	million	in	the	prior	year	quarter	primarily	due	

to the	disposal	of	NGL	property	as	Superior	has	begun	to	divest	of	excess	facilities	and	properties	while	executing	on	synergies.	

Superior	entered	into	new	leases	with	capital-equivalent	value	of	$17.8	million	in	the	fourth	quarter	of	2019	compared	to	$10.2	million	in	

the	prior	year’s	fourth	quarter.	The	increase	is	primarily	related	to	the	change	in	accounting	policy	which	requires	leases	to	be	recorded	as	

a	right-of-use	asset	and	a	lease	liability.	Leased	assets	include	vehicles	for	the	Propane	Distribution	segment	to	support	growth	and	replace	

aging	vehicles,	renewing	railcar	leases	in	the	Specialty	Chemicals	segment	and	timing	of	renewing	property	leases.	Approximately	50%	of	the	

additions	to	leased	assets	relate	to	vehicles	in	the	Energy	Distribution	segments.

Corporate Administration Costs

Corporate	administration	costs	were	$11.6	million	in	the	fourth	quarter,	compared	to	$8.1	million	in	the	prior	year	comparable	quarter.	The	

$3.5	million	increase	was	primarily	due	to	the	decline	in	the	share	price	in	the	prior	year	quarter	and	was	partially	offset	by	higher	corporate	

transaction costs.

Finance Expense

Interest	expense	on	borrowing	and	finance	lease	obligations	was	$27.9	million	in	the	fourth	quarter,	compared	to	$26.9	million	in	the	prior	

year	quarter.	The	increase	was	mainly	due	to	the	higher	average	debt	related	to	acquisitions,	and	the	impact	of	adopting	IFRS	16.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  35

 
Transaction and Other Costs

For	the	fourth	quarter,	Superior	incurred	$5.6	million	in	transaction	and	other	costs	compared	to	$7.5	million	in	the	prior	year	quarter.	The	

decrease	is	primarily	related	to	timing	of	tuck-in	acquisitions	and	costs	related	to	the	strategic	review	of	Specialty	Chemicals	in	the	current	

quarter	compared	to	transaction	costs	associated	with	NGL	and	the	tuck-in	acquisitions	in	the	prior	year	quarter.

Quarterly Financial and Operating Information 

GAAP Measures

(millions of dollars, except per share amounts) 

Revenue(3)

Gross profit(3)

Net earnings (loss)

Per share, basic

Per share, diluted

Net working capital (deficit)(1)

Q4 2019

$ 821.0

$ 366.0

$  74.6

$  0.43

$  0.43

$  49.9

Q3 2019

Q2 2019

Q1 2019

Q4 2018

Q3 2018

Q2 2018

Q1 2018

450.1

195.0

(59.3)

(0.34)

(0.34)

14.1

545.8

223.7

(29.3)

(0.17)

(0.17)

48.8

1,036.0

428.3

156.6(4)

0.90(4)

0.90(4)

189.1

889.2

323.5

(48.3)

(0.28)

(0.28)

97.3

486.7

174.6

(39.8)

(0.23)

(0.23)

(10.6)

486.1

162.7

9.1(2)

0.06(2)

0.06(2)

(5.1)

875.7

287.4

45.0(2)

0.32(2)

0.32(2)

144.0

(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.

(3)	 Revenue	and	gross	profit	have	been	presented	in	Q1	to	Q3	2019,	and	Q1	to	Q4	in	2018,	excluding	realized	gains	and	losses	on	commodity	derivative	instruments.	

These	gains	and	losses	are	included	in	other	income	in	the	audited	financial	statements.	See	“Non-GAAP	Financial	Measures”.

(4)	 Restated	Q1	2019	net	earnings	and	per	share	calculations	decreased	by	$2.1	million	to	reflect	the	increased	amortization	partially	offset	by	a	reduction	in	

depreciation	as	a	result	of	finalizing	the	NGL	purchase	price	allocation.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures(1)

(millions of dollars, except per share amounts) 

Q4 2019

Q3 2019

Q2 2019

Q1 2019

Q4 2018

Q3 2018

Q2 2018

Q1 2018

Adjusted EBITDA

$ 176.7

AOCF before transaction and other costs

$ 145.0

Per share, basic

Per share, diluted

AOCF 

Per share, basic

Per share, diluted

$  0.83

$  0.83

$ 139.4

$  0.80

$  0.80

48.2

19.2

0.11

0.11

13.1

0.07

0.07

59.7

31.0

0.18

0.18

17.8

0.10

0.10

239.9

211.0

1.21

1.21

206.0

1.18

1.18

153.0

132.7

0.76

0.76

125.2

0.72

0.72

25.9

2.2

0.01

0.01

(13.4)

(0.08)

(0.08)

42.8

29.3

0.21

0.21

20.3

0.14

0.14

152.6

138.1

0.97

0.97

130.7

0.91

0.91

(1)	 Adjusted	EBITDA,	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	2018	Superior	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	3	in	the	2019	audited	

consolidated	financial	statements.

36  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
Volumes(1)

Canadian propane sales  
 volumes (millions of litres)

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

Chemical sales volumes  
 (thousands of MT)

Q4 2019

Q3 2019

Q2 2019

Q1 2019

Q4 2018

Q3 2018

Q2 2018

Q1 2018

753

361

199

393

158

210

437

201

210

922

489

206

765

391

202

340

161

212

380

157

208

730

396

213

Canadian propane sales by end-use application are as follows: 

(millions of litres)

Q4 2019

Q3 2019

Q2 2019

Q1 2019

Q4 2018

Q3 2018

Q2 2018

Q1 2018

Residential

Commercial

Oilfield

Industrial 

Motor Fuels

Wholesale

Other

Total

59

102

55

58

41

375

63

753

20

42

35

52

42

190

12

393

26

57

36

53

44

207

14

437

75

137

58

68

40

493

51

922

59

105

59

60

44

385

53

765

20

45

46

51

45

121

12

340

29

58

47

55

47

127

17

380

75

137

79

70

43

274

52

730

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

U.S. propane sales by end-use application are as follows:

(millions of litres)

Residential

Commercial

Wholesale

Total

Q4 2019

Q3 2019

Q2 2019

Q1 2019

Q4 2018

Q3 2018

Q2 2018

Q1 2018

264

88

9

361

88

63

7

158

123

69

9

201

375

92

22

489

279

92

20

391

78

68

15

161

39

76

42

157

135

106

155

396

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

Specialty Chemicals sales volumes by product are as follows: 

(thousands of MT)

Sodium chlorate

Chlor-alkali

Chlorite

Total

Q4 2019

Q3 2019

Q2 2019

Q1 2019

Q4 2018

Q3 2018

Q2 2018

Q1 2018

120

78

1

199

122

86

2

210

120

88

2

210

118

87

1

206

117

84

1

202

121

88

3

212

115

91

2

208

121

90

2

213

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  37

 
Reconciliation of Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes to Adjusted EBITDA

(millions of dollars)  
For the three months ended December 31, 2019

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 (gains) on derivative financial instruments

Transaction, restructuring and other costs

Adjusted EBITDA

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

Earnings (loss) before income taxes

Add:  Depreciation and amortization included in selling, 

 distribution and administrative costs

Depreciation included in cost of sales

Loss on disposal of assets and other

Finance expense

 Realized gain on foreign currency forward contracts  
 related to NGL financing

Unrealized losses on derivative financial instruments

Transaction, restructuring and other costs

Adjusted EBITDA

Canadian Propane 
Distribution

U.S. Propane 
Distribution

Specialty 
Chemicals

64.7

19.1

—

(1.4)

1.0

(8.1)

0.3

75.6

54.3

23.4

—

0.5

1.1

(3.6)

2.5

78.2

10.8

8.5

11.0

3.5

2.3

(1.0)

(1.1)

34.0

Canadian Propane 
Distribution

U.S. Propane 
Distribution

Specialty 
Chemicals

9.3

28.2

—

8.7

0.4

—

10.5

0.7

57.8

19.8

24.4

—

8.5

1.6

—

12.9

4.0

71.2

15.9

0.3

15.8

0.2

1.1

—

—

—

33.3

Corporate

(26.3)

0.2

—

—

23.5

(12.4)

3.9

(11.1)

Corporate

(92.6)

—

—

—

23.8

(4.5)

61.2

2.8

(9.3)

Reconciliation of Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes to Adjusted EBITDA

(millions of dollars)  
For the year ended December 31, 2019

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 (gains) losses on derivative financial instruments

Transaction, restructuring and other costs

Adjusted EBITDA

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

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

 Foreign currency forward contracts related to NGL financing

Unrealized losses on derivative financial instruments

Transaction, restructuring and other costs

Adjusted EBITDA

Canadian Propane 
Distribution

U.S. Propane 
Distribution

Specialty 
Chemicals

130.2

71.9

—

(3.3)

4.4

(3.2)

0.8

200.8

79.4

105.0

—

1.3

4.4

2.6

16.7

209.4

47.9

30.4

44.9

20.4

8.1

(2.9)

3.1

151.9

Canadian Propane 
Distribution

U.S. Propane 
Distribution

Specialty 
Chemicals

45.7

86.2
—

4.0

2.2

14.1

10.3

162.5

27.7

58.1
—

(6.4)

2.5

13.7

7.1

102.7

80.4

1.1
53.6

0.2

2.3

—

—

137.6

Corporate

(89.9)

0.4

—

—

97.4

(54.8)

9.3

(37.6)

Corporate

(188.1)

0.2
—

—

83.3

(4.5)

58.5

22.1

(28.5)

38  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Total

103.5

51.2

11.0

2.6

27.9

(25.1)

5.6

176.7

Total

(47.6)

52.9

15.8

17.4

26.9

(4.5)

84.6

7.5

153.0

Total

167.6

207.7

44.9

18.4

114.3

(58.3)

29.9

524.5

Total

(34.3)

145.6
53.6

(2.2)

90.3

(4.5)

86.3

39.5

374.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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	most	recent	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	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	Propane	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.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  39

 
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.

Transportation Network Disruptions 

All three of Superior’s business segments rely on rail as a mode of delivering product across Canada and the US to service customer 

demand. Due to the integrated nature of North America’s freight transportation infrastructure, Superior’s operations may be negatively 

affected	by	service	disruptions	with	their	transportation	provider	or	other	transportation	links	such	as	ports	and	other	railroads	which	

interchange	with	our	transportation	provider.	A	significant	prolonged	service	disruption	of	one	or	more	of	these	entities	could	have	an	

adverse	effect	on	Superior’s	ability	to	service	customer	demand.	Service	disruptions	can	be	caused	by,	but	are	not	limited	to,	severe	weather	

and	natural	disasters	such	as	extreme	cold	or	heat,	flooding,	droughts,	fires,	hurricanes	and	earthquakes	as	well	as	labour	disruptions,	

political disruptions such as protests and acts of terrorism.

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.

40  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

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	Propane	Distribution	businesses	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 

customer	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.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  41

 
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	customers	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	customers’	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.	Current	unit	margins	may	not	be	sustainable	if	market	conditions	change	significantly.

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	Propane	Distribution	in	comparison	with	such	competing	energy	sources.	Any	such	

changes	could	have	an	adverse	effect	on	the	operations	of	Propane	Distribution.

Employee and Labour Relations

Approximately 18% of Superior’s Canadian propane distribution business employees and 1% of the 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.

42  Superior Plus Corp. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

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	the	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	25%	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.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  43

 
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 20, 2020

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

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 sheets as at December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the consolidated statements of changes in equity, consolidated 

statements	of	net	earnings	(loss)	and	total	comprehensive	earnings,	and	consolidated	statements	of	cash	flows	for	the	years	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	of	December	31,	2019	and	2018,	and	its	consolidated	financial	performance	and	its	consolidated	cash	flows	for	the	years	

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.

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.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  45

 
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.

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 20, 2020 

46  Superior Plus Corp. Independent Auditor’s Report

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(millions of Canadian dollars)

Assets

Current Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables 

Prepaids and deposits

Inventories

Other current financial assets

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

Lease liabilities

Borrowings

Dividends payable 

Other current financial liabilities

Total Current Liabilities

Non-Current Liabilities

Lease liabilities

Borrowings

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 earnings

Total Equity

Total Liabilities and Equity

(i)  Restated (see Note 2 (b))

See accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

As at December 31

Note

2019

2018(i)

4

5

6

16

3, 7

3, 8

3, 9

15

17

16

11

12

2

14

16

2

14

13

10

15

17

16

18

26.5

329.2

57.1

116.2

5.4

534.4

1,575.6

388.8

1,080.9

2.8

12.0

41.2

2.3

3,103.6

3,638.0

23.9

383.2

49.3

146.8

18.2

621.4

1,441.8

430.2

1,094.2

8.0

8.7

48.7

1.0

3,032.6

3,654.0

424.0

447.6

18.1

52.4

10.1

10.5

23.7

23.9

18.1

10.7

10.5

45.9

538.8

556.7

182.0

1,684.3

29.7

112.9

21.2

28.5

1.6

2,060.2

2,599.0

2,339.9

(1,406.2)

105.3

1,039.0

3,638.0

45.7

1,779.3

16.8

103.7

19.9

25.0

18.0

2,008.4

2,565.1

2,339.9

(1,422.9)

171.9

1,088.9

3,654.0

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  47

 
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Earnings

171.9

—

Deficit

(1,422.9)

142.6

Total

1,088.9

142.6

Total
Capital

2,339.9

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

142.6

(125.9)

2,339.9

(1,406.2)

1,953.5

(1,266.9)

—

—

—

—

—

—

386.4

—

2,339.9

(34.0)

—

—

—

(34.0)

(7.6)

—

(114.4)

(1,422.9)

(74.9)

(74.9)

7.1

1.6

(0.4)

(66.6)

—

105.3

89.4

—

81.6

1.2

(0.3)

82.5

—

—

—

171.9

7.1

1.6

(0.4)

76.0

(125.9)

1,039.0

776.0

(34.0)

81.6

1.2

(0.3)

48.5

(7.6)

386.4

(114.4)

1,088.9

(millions of Canadian dollars)

As at January 1, 2019

Net earnings for the year

Unrealized foreign currency loss on translation  
 of foreign operations

Transfer of derivative losses from accumulated  
 other comprehensive earnings

Actuarial defined-benefit gain

Income tax expense on other  
 comprehensive earnings (loss)

Total comprehensive earnings (loss)

Dividends and dividend equivalent  
 declared to shareholders 

As at December 31, 2019

As at January 1, 2018

Net loss for the year

Unrealized foreign currency gain on translation  
 of foreign operations

Actuarial defined-benefit gain

Income tax expense on other comprehensive 
  earnings (loss)

Total comprehensive earnings (loss)

Change in accounting policy as a result of  
 the adoption of IFRS 15

Issuance of common shares, net of costs

Dividends and dividend equivalent declared  
 to shareholders

As at December 31, 2018 

See accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Share
Capital
(Note 18)

2,338.7

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

2,338.7

1,952.3

—

—

—

—

—

—

386.4

—

2,338.7

Contributed
Surplus

1.2

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

1.2

1.2

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

1.2

48  Superior Plus Corp. Consolidated Financial Statements

Consolidated Statements of Net Earnings (Loss) and  
Total Comprehensive Earnings

(millions of Canadian dollars except per share amounts)

Revenue

Cost of sales (includes products and services)

Gross profit

Expenses

Selling, distribution and administrative costs

Finance expense

Other income (loss)

Earnings (loss) before income taxes 

Income tax recovery (expense)

Net earnings (loss) before income taxes 

Other comprehensive earnings (loss)

Items that may be reclassified subsequently to net earnings (loss)

  Unrealized foreign currency (loss) gain on translation of foreign operations

  Transfer of derivative losses from accumulated other comprehensive earnings

Items that will not be reclassified to net earnings (loss) 

  Actuarial defined-benefit gain

Income tax expense on other comprehensive earnings (loss)

  Other comprehensive earnings (loss) for the year

Total comprehensive earnings for the year

Years Ended December 31

Note

2019

2018(i)

19, 21

19

19

19

16, 19

19

17

19

2,852.9

(1,639.9)

1,213.0

2,737.7

(1,789.5)

948.2

(948.3)

(114.3)

17.2

(1,045.4)

167.6

(25.0)

142.6

(74.9)

7.1

1.6

(0.4)

(66.6)

76.0

(800.3)

(90.3)

(91.9)

(982.5)

(34.3)

0.3

(34.0)

81.6

—

1.2

(0.3)

82.5

48.5

Net earnings (loss) per share, basic and diluted

20

$  0.82

$  (0.22)

(i)	 Restated	the	prior	year	to	be	comparable	with	the	current	year’s	presentation	(see	Note	2	(b)).

See accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  49

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(millions of Canadian dollars)

Operating Activities
Net earnings (loss) for the year

Adjustments for:

  Depreciation included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

  Depreciation of right-of-use assets

  Depreciation included in cost of sales

  Amortization of intangible assets 

Losses (gains) on disposal of assets, impairments, and other non-cash items

  Unrealized losses (gains) on derivative financial instruments

Finance expense recognized in net earnings (loss)

Income tax expense (recovery) recognized in net earnings (loss)

Changes in non-cash operating working capital and other

Net cash flows from operating activities before income taxes and interest paid

Income taxes paid

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 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 5.125% senior unsecured notes

Redemption of 6.5% senior unsecured notes

Principal repayment of lease obligations

Debt issue costs

Dividends paid to shareholders

Cash flows (used in) from financing activities

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents during the year

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of the year

Effect of translation of foreign currency-denominated cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents, end of the year

(i)	 Restated	the	prior	year	to	be	comparable	with	the	current	year’s	presentation	(see	Note	2	(b)).	 	

See accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

50  Superior Plus Corp. Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31

Note

2019

2018(i)

142.6

(34.0)

7

7

7

8

16

17

23

3

26

3

14

14

14

108.5

35.7

44.9

63.5

18.4

(58.3)

114.3

25.0

43.7

538.3

(8.4)

(106.7)

423.2

(60.1)

(135.9)

7.1

—

98.3

–

53.6

47.2

(2.2)

86.3

90.3

(0.3)

(25.0)

314.2

(0.1)

(51.1)

263.0

(1,259.6)

(105.8)

22.7

91.9

(188.9)

(1,250.8)

2,417.0

(2,480.4)

2,527.3

(2,392.3)

—

—

—

—

(41.5)

(0.6)

(125.9)

(231.4)

2.9

23.9

(0.3)

26.5

381.4

458.5

362.5

(209.8)

(17.1)

(17.9)

(112.5)

980.1

(7.7)

31.8

(0.2)

23.9

 
 
 
	
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

(Tabular amounts in millions of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts. Tables labelled “2019” and “2018” are as at and for the year ended December 31).

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’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.

These	consolidated	financial	statements	were	authorized	for	issue	by	the	Board	of	Directors	on	February	20,	2020.

Reportable Operating Segments 

Effective	January	1,	2019,	management	has	changed	Superior’s	reportable	operating	segments	(Note	26)	and	now	reports	three	operating	

segments: Canadian Propane Distribution, United States (“U.S.”) Propane Distribution and Specialty Chemicals. The Canadian Propane 

Distribution	segment	includes	the	Canadian	retail	business	and	the	wholesale	business	with	offices	located	in	Canada	and	California.	The	

U.S.	Propane	Distribution	segment	distributes	propane	gas	and	liquid	fuels	along	the	Eastern	U.S.,	and	into	the	Midwest	and	California.	

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.	Reportable	segment	information	has	also	been	restated	to	comply	with	the	

current presentation.

References	to	Energy	Distribution	in	the	notes	below	refer	to	both	Canadian	Propane	Distribution	and	U.S.	Propane	Distribution	because	

of the	inherent	similarities	of	the	businesses.

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”) as	issued	by	the	International	Accounting	Standards	Board	(“IASB”).	The	consolidated	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 consolidated statements of net earnings (loss) and total comprehensive 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	the	Company.

(b) Reclassification of Comparative Figures and Restatement

The	purchase	price	allocations	of	NGL	Propane,	LLC	(“NGL”)	and	United	Pacific	Energy	(“UPE”)	were	finalized	in	2019.	Superior	has	restated	

the	comparative	figures	to	record	the	impact	of	the	final	purchase	price	allocations	as	if	the	accounting	for	these	business	combinations	had	

been completed at the respective acquisition dates, see Note 3.

In	accordance	with	IFRS	9,	Financial Instruments	(“IFRS	9”),	management	has	recorded	realized	gains	(losses)	on	derivatives	in	other	income	

(loss).	In	prior	periods,	realized	gains	and	losses	on	derivative	financial	instruments	were	recognized	as	a	component	of	revenue,	cost	of	

sales	or	finance	expense/income,	the	classification	of	which	depended	on	the	underlying	nature	of	the	economic	exposure	being	managed,	

while	the	unrealized	gains	(losses)	on	derivatives	were	recorded	in	its	own	line	separately.	In	the	current	period,	realized	gains	and	losses	

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  51

 
on	derivative	financial	instruments	are	recorded	as	a	component	of	other	income	(loss)	together	with	the	unrealized	gains	(losses)	on	

derivatives.	Management	has	restated	the	comparative	figures	to	conform	with	this	presentation.

(c) Changes in Accounting Policies and Disclosures

IFRS 16, Leases

The Company adopted IFRS 16, Leases	(“IFRS	16”)	with	a	date	of	initial	application	of	January	1,	2019.	IFRS	16	specifies	how	to	recognize,	

measure,	present	and	disclose	leases.	The	standard	provides	a	single	lessee	accounting	model,	requiring	lessees	to	recognize	assets	and	

liabilities	for	all	major	leases.	The	Company’s	accounting	policy	under	IFRS	16	is	as	follows:

At	inception	of	a	contract,	the	Company	assesses	whether	a	contract	is,	or	contains,	a	lease	based	on	whether	the	contract	conveys	the	

right to	control	the	use	of	an	identified	asset	for	a	period	of	time	in	exchange	for	consideration.

The	Company	recognizes	a	right-of-use	asset	and	a	lease	liability	at	the	lease	commencement	date,	which	is	defined	as	the	date	at	which	

the right-of-use	asset	is	available	for	use	by	the	Company.

The	lease	liability	is	initially	measured	at	the	present	value	of	the	following	lease	payments:

 » fixed	payments,	less	any	lease	incentives	receivable;

 » variable lease payments that are based on an index or a rate;

 » amounts expected to be payable by the lessee under residual value guarantees;

 » the exercise price of a purchase option if the lessee is reasonably certain to exercise that option; and

 » payments	of	penalties	for	terminating	the	lease,	if	the	lease	term	reflects	the	lessee	exercising	that	option.

The lease payments are discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if that rate cannot be readily determined, the Company’s 

incremental	borrowing	rate.	The	incremental	borrowing	rate	is	the	rate	of	interest	the	lessee	would	have	to	pay	to	borrow	over	a	similar	

term	with	similar	security.	

The	right-of-use	asset	is	initially	measured	at	cost	comprising	the	following:

 » the initial amount of the lease liability adjusted for any lease payments made at or before the commencement date;

 » any initial direct costs incurred;

 » an	estimate	of	costs	to	dismantle	and	remove	the	underlying	asset	or	to	restore	the	underlying	asset	or	the	site	on	which	it	is	located;	and

 » less any lease incentives received. 

The assets are depreciated to the earlier of the end of the useful life of the right-of-use asset or the lease term using the straight-line 

method	as	this	most	closely	reflects	the	expected	pattern	of	consumption	of	the	future	economic	benefits.	

The	lease	term	includes	periods	covered	by	an	option	to	extend	if	the	Company	is	reasonably	certain	to	exercise	that	option	as	defined	

below.	

Lease terms range from: 

Office	space	and	buildings		

Manufacturing equipment 

Railcars  

1	to	70	years	

2 to 51 years 

1 to 11 years 

The right-of-use asset is periodically reduced by impairment losses, if any, and adjusted for certain remeasurements of the lease liability.

After	the	commencement	date,	the	amount	of	lease	liabilities	is	increased	to	reflect	the	accretion	of	interest	and	reduced	for	the	lease	

payments	made.	It	is	remeasured	when	there	is	a	change	in	future	lease	payments	arising	from	a	change	in	an	index	or	rate,	if	there	is	a	

change in the Company’s estimate of the amount expected to be payable under a residual value guarantee, or if the Company changes its 

assessment	of	whether	it	will	exercise	a	purchase,	extension	or	termination	option.	When	the	lease	liability	is	remeasured	in	this	way,	a	

corresponding	adjustment	is	made	to	the	carrying	amount	of	the	right-of-use	asset,	or	is	recorded	in	profit	or	loss	if	the	carrying	amount	

of the	right-of-use	asset	has	been	reduced	to	zero.

52  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The	Company’s	leases	relate	to	railcars,	office	space	and	buildings	and	manufacturing	equipment.	Lease	contracts	are	typically	made	for	

periods	of	5	to	20	years,	but	may	have	extension	options.	Extension	and	termination	options	are	included	in	a	number	of	building	and	

equipment leases across the Company. The majority of extension and termination options held are exercisable only by the Company and 

not	by	the	respective	lessor.	Lease	terms	are	negotiated	on	an	individual	basis	and	contain	a	wide	range	of	different	terms	and	conditions.	

Superior’s obligations under some leases are secured by the lessors’ title to the leased assets.

The Company has recorded the right-of-use assets as part of property, plant and equipment.

Impact of Transition to IFRS 16

The	Company	adopted	IFRS	16	using	the	modified	retrospective	approach	and,	accordingly,	the	information	presented	for	2018	has	not	

been restated and remains as previously reported under International Accounting Standard (“IAS”) 17, Leases and related interpretations. 

In	applying	IFRS	16	for	the	first	time,	the	Company	has	used	the	following	practical	expedients	permitted	by	the	standard:

 »  The Company has elected to record right-of-use assets based on the corresponding lease liability. Right-of-use assets and lease 

obligations	of	$178.6	million	were	recorded	as	of	January	1,	2019,	with	no	net	impact	on	deficit.	When	measuring	lease	liabilities,	the	

Company	discounted	lease	payments	using	its	incremental	borrowing	rate	for	similar	collateral	and	term	as	at	January	1,	2019.	The	

incremental	borrowing	rate	applied	was	5.4%	to	8.3%.	

 » 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	leases	of	low-value	

assets as short-term leases.

 » The	use	of	hindsight	in	determining	the	lease	term	where	the	contract	includes	extension	or	termination	options.

 »  The Company has elected to apply the practical expedient to account for each lease component and any non-lease components as a 

single lease component.

The	following	table	reconciles	the	Company’s	operating	lease	obligations	as	at	December	31,	2018,	as	previously	disclosed	in	the	Company’s	

consolidated	financial	statements,	to	the	lease	obligations	recognized	on	initial	application	of	IFRS	16	as	at	January	1,	2019.

Operating lease commitments as at December 31, 2018

Discounted using the incremental borrowing rate

Recognition exemption for short-term leases

Arrangements not captured under IFRS 16

Extension options reasonably certain to be exercised

Initial adoption as at January 1, 2019

The	impact	of	IFRS	16	and	related	lease	liability	by	operating	segment	is	as	follows:

Propane Distribution

Canada

U.S.

Specialty Chemicals

Corporate

IFRS 16 initial adoption

Reclassification from previously recognized finance lease liabilities(i) 

Lease liabilities assumed as part of a business combination

Additions

Finance expense on lease liabilities

Lease payments

Impact of changes in foreign exchange rates and other

Lease liabilities as at December 31, 2019

34.6

33.9

0.5

17.2

3.8

(16.8)

(0.5)

72.7

12.5

29.9

3.1

10.8

2.5

(11.6)

(0.9)

46.3

129.8

—

—

9.2

6.9

(26.1)

(5.9)

113.9

1.7

—

—

—

0.1

(0.3)

—

1.5

(i)	 The	finance	lease	liabilities	included	in	borrowings	as	at	December	31,	2018	have	been	reclassified	to	the	current	period’s	presentation.

203.3

(33.1)

(2.8)

(3.5)

14.7

178.6

Total

178.6

63.8

3.6

37.2

13.3

(54.8)

(7.3)

234.4

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  53
Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  53

 
 
 
Current portion of lease liability

Non-current portion of lease liability

Lease liabilities as at December 31, 2019

Total

52.4

182.0

234.4

Included	in	the	above	lease	liabilities,	as	at	December	31,	2019,	are	vehicle	and	other	fleet	lease	obligations	of	$73.0	million	(December	31,	

2018	–	$63.8	million).

The	present	value	of	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 rental payments

Minimum Rental 

Present Value of 
Rental Payments

2019

60.5

150.4

91.5

(68.0)

234.4

2018

19.4

44.6

8.8

(9.0)

63.8

2019

52.8

120.2

61.4

—

234.4

2018

18.1

38.2

7.5

—

63.8

Future	minimum	lease	payments	under	non-cancellable,	low-value,	short-term	leases	and	leases	with	variable	lease	payments	as	at	

December	31,	2019	are	summarized	below.	The	December	31,	2018	amounts	represent	lease	commitments	before	the	adoption	of	IFRS	16.

Not later than one year

Later than one year and not later than five years

Later than five years

2019

2.1

0.4

—

2.5

2018

40.3

103.0

60.0

203.3

International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (“IFRIC”) Interpretation 23,  
Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatment

The	Interpretation	addresses	the	accounting	for	income	taxes	when	tax	treatments	involve	uncertainty	that	affects	the	application	of	IAS 12,	

Income Taxes.	It	does	not	apply	to	taxes	or	levies	outside	the	scope	of	IAS	12,	nor	does	it	specifically	include	requirements	relating	to interest	

and	penalties	associated	with	uncertain	tax	treatments.	The	Interpretation	specifically	addresses	the	following:

 » Whether an entity considers uncertain tax treatments separately;

 » The	assumptions	an	entity	makes	about	the	examination	of	tax	treatments	by	taxation	authorities;

 » How	an	entity	determines	taxable	profit	(tax	loss),	tax	bases,	unused	tax	losses,	unused	tax	credits	and	tax	rates;	and

 » How	an	entity	considers	changes	in	facts	and	circumstances.

The	Company	determines	whether	to	consider	each	uncertain	tax	treatment	separately	or	together	with	one	or	more	other	uncertain	tax	

treatments and uses the approach that better predicts the resolution of the uncertainty.

The	Company	applies	significant	judgement	in	identifying	uncertainties	over	income	tax	treatments.	Since	the	Company	operates	in	a	

complex	multinational	environment,	it	assessed	whether	the	Interpretation	had	an	impact	on	its	consolidated	financial	statements.

Upon	adoption	of	the	Interpretation,	the	Company	considered	whether	it	has	any	uncertain	tax	positions.	The	Company’s	and	the	

subsidiaries’	tax	filings	in	different	jurisdictions	include	deductions	related	to	transfer	pricing	and	the	taxation	authorities	may	challenge	

those tax treatments. The Company determined, based on its tax compliance and transfer pricing study, that it is probable that its tax 

treatments	(including	those	for	the	subsidiaries)	will	be	accepted	by	the	taxation	authorities.	The	Interpretation	did	not	have	an	impact	on	

the	consolidated	financial	statements	of	the	Company.

54  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

(d) Significant Accounting Policies

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	statements	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.	As	at	December	31,	2019,	cash	equivalents	amounted	to	$4.5	million	with	a	maturity	of	less	than	30	days	

(December 31, 2018	–	nil).

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.

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	

earnings	(loss);	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.	

For	assets	and	liabilities	measured	at	fair	value,	gains	and	losses	are	either	recorded	in	profit	or	loss,	or	other	comprehensive	earnings	(loss).

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	consolidated	financial	assets	and	financial	liabilities,	refer	to	Note	16.

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.

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	(loss)	and	total	comprehensive	

earnings.	For	financial	liabilities	measured	subsequently	at	FVTPL,	changes	in	fair	value	due	to	own	credit	risk	are	recorded	in	other	

comprehensive earnings (loss).

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  55
Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  55

 
 
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 16.

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	(loss).	Realized	gains	and	losses	on	derivatives	are	recorded	as	part	of	other	income	(loss)	

which	also	includes	unrealized	gains	and	losses	on	derivatives.	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	(loss).

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.

56  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	(loss).	Fair	value	is	determined	in	the	manner	

described in Note 16.

Property, Plant and Equipment

Cost

Property,	plant	and	equipment	are	recorded	at	cost	less	accumulated	depreciation	and	impairment	losses.	Major	renewals	and	

improvements	that	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	(loss).

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	(loss)	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

Over the lease term up to 10 years

15 to 40 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. 

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.

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.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  57
Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  57

 
 
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.

Superior’s	amortization	rates	related	to	its	intangible	assets	are	summarized	as	follows:

Non-compete agreements

Royalty agreements

Software

Technology patents

Customer contracts

Term of the agreements (1 to 15 years)

1 to 10 years

1 to 5 years

Approximately 10 years

5 to 10 years

Trade	names	have	an	indefinite	useful	life	since	they	do	not	expire.	These	are	recorded	at	cost,	are	not	amortized	and	are	tested	for	

impairment annually or more frequently should events or changes in circumstances indicate that they might be impaired.

As	a	result	of	propane	distribution	activity	in	Québec,	Nova	Scotia	and	California,	Superior	is	required	to	purchase	sufficient	Compliance	

Instruments	to	offset	its	carbon	footprint.	Costs	incurred	to	acquire	these	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	to	which	they	relate.

Impairment of Property, Plant and Equipment and Intangible Assets 

At	each	consolidated	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 of disposal (“FVLCOD”) 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	(loss)	and	total	

comprehensive 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.

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	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.

58  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

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	

(loss).	Goodwill	is	initially	recognized	as	an	asset	at	cost	and	is	subsequently	measured	at	cost	less	any	accumulated	impairment	losses.

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.

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.

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

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.	

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  59
Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  59

 
 
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	the	payments	relate	to.

Included	in	the	U.S.	Propane	Distribution	segment	is	revenue	related	to	the	distribution	of	heating	oil	and	refined	fuels	in	the	northeastern	

U.S.	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.

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.

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	recorded	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	(loss)	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.

60  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

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	cleanup	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.	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.

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	consolidated	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 the consolidated statements of net earnings (loss) and total comprehensive earnings 

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	earnings	(loss)	in	the	period	in	which	they	occur.

The	defined-benefit	obligation	recognized	in	the	consolidated	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.

Income Taxes

Income tax expense represents the sum of current income taxes 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 earnings (loss) and total comprehensive earnings 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 consolidated balance sheet date.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  61
Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  61

 
 
Deferred Income Taxes

Deferred	income	tax	is	recognized	on	differences	between	the	carrying	amounts	of	assets	and	liabilities	in	the	consolidated	financial	

statements	and	the	corresponding	tax	basis	used	in	the	computation	of	taxable	net	earnings.	Deferred	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	and	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.

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	consolidated	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 Tax and Deferred Tax for the Period

Current	tax	and	deferred	tax	are	recognized	as	an	expense	in	net	earnings	(loss),	except	where	they	relate	to	amounts	recognized	outside	

of	net	earnings	(loss)	(whether	in	other	comprehensive	earnings	(loss)	or	directly	in	equity),	in	which	case	the	current	tax	and	deferred	tax	

are	also	recognized	outside	of	net	earnings	(loss),	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.

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.

62  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

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	U.S.,	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	earnings	(loss)	for	the	period.

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,	remeasured	at	each	consolidated	balance	sheet	date.	All	share-based	payments	are	

settled in cash.

Net Earnings (Loss) per Common Share

Basic	net	earnings	(loss)	per	share	are	calculated	by	dividing	the	net	earnings	(loss)	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	

(loss) 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.

(e) 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,	revenue,	expenses	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	consolidated	financial	statements,	are	as	follows:

Estimates and Assumptions

Fair Value of Derivative and Non-Financial Derivative Instruments

Where	the	fair	values	of	financial	derivatives	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	(loss)	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	(loss)	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 the Significant Accounting Policies above.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  63
Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  63

 
 
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	(loss).

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.

Judgments

Impairment of Property, Plant and Equipment

An	impairment	evaluation	involves	consideration	of	whether	there	are	indicators	of	impairment.	Indicators	include	but	are	not	limited	to:	

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	consolidated	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	income	tax	expense	

(recovery) 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.

64  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

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	2019.	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 16.

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.

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 standalone 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.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  65
Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  65

 
 
Determining the Lease Term

In determining the lease term, management considers all facts and circumstances that create an economic incentive to exercise an 

extension	option	or	not	to	exercise	a	termination	option.	Extension	options	(or	periods	after	termination	options)	are	only	included	in	the	

lease	term	if	the	lease	is	reasonably	certain	to	be	extended	or	not	terminated.	The	initial	assessment	is	reviewed	if	a	significant	event	or	a	

significant	change	in	circumstances	occurs	that	affects	this	assessment	and	that	is	within	the	control	of	the	lessee.

(f) 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	

consolidated	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.

IFRS 3, Business Combinations

In	October	2018,	the	IASB	issued	amendments	to	the	definition	of	a	business	in	IFRS	3,	Business Combinations to help entities determine 

whether	an	acquired	set	of	activities	and	assets	is	a	business	or	not.	They	clarify	the	minimum	requirements	for	a	business,	remove	the	

assessment	of	whether	market	participants	are	capable	of	replacing	any	missing	elements,	add	guidance	to	help	entities	assess	whether	an	

acquired	process	is	substantive,	narrow	the	definitions	of	a	business	and	of	outputs,	and	introduce	an	optional	fair	value	concentration	test.	

New	illustrative	examples	were	provided	along	with	the	amendments.

Since	the	amendments	apply	prospectively	to	transactions	or	other	events	that	occur	on	or	after	the	date	of	first	application,	the	Company	

will	not	be	affected	by	these	amendments	on	the	date	of	transition.

IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements and IAS 8, Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors

In October 2018, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements and IAS 8, Accounting Policies, Changes in 

Accounting Estimates and Errors	to	align	the	definition	of	“material”	across	the	standards	and	to	clarify	certain	aspects	of	the	definition.	The	

new	definition	states	that,	“Information	is	material	if	omitting,	misstating	or	obscuring	it	could	reasonably	be	expected	to	influence	decisions	

that	the	primary	users	of	general	purpose	financial	statements	make	on	the	basis	of	those	financial	statements,	which	provide	financial	

information	about	a	specific	reporting	entity”.

The	amendments	to	the	definition	of	material	is	not	expected	to	have	a	significant	impact	on	the	Company’s	consolidated	financial	

statements.

66  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

3. Acquisitions

2019 Purchase Price Allocations

Cash

Accounts receivable

Inventory

Property, plant and equipment

Intangible assets

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

Contract liabilities 

Long-term debt and lease liabilities

Net identifiable assets and liabilities

Consideration transferred

Fair value of deferred consideration

Cash paid on acquisition

Total consideration transferred

Acquisition date fair value of previously held equity interest

Goodwill arising on acquisition

Phelps

Sheldon

Other

—

1.9

0.5

14.4

3.2

—

(0.6)

(1.5)

17.9

3.1

21.9

25.0

—

25.0

7.1

0.8

0.6

0.3

8.3

6.7

(0.1)

—

(0.5)

16.1

1.9

19.2

21.1

4.5

25.6

9.5

—

1.0

0.1

9.8

6.4

(0.6)

—

(2.1)

14.6

3.0

19.8

22.8

—

22.8

8.2

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.

Phelps Sungas Inc. and BMK Geneva, Inc. (“Phelps”)

On April 1, 2019, Superior closed the acquisition of the propane distribution assets of Phelps, an independent propane distributor in 

New	York	for	total	consideration	of	$25.2	million	(US$18.7	million).	The	acquisition	was	funded	by	drawing	on	Superior’s	credit	facility	and	

deferring	$3.3	million	(US$2.5	million)	in	payments	over	the	next	five	years.

The	purchase	price	allocation	is	considered	preliminary,	and	as	a	result,	may	be	adjusted	during	the	12-month	period	following	the	

acquisition	once	all	the	required	information	pertaining	to	working	capital	and	customer	attrition	is	obtained	and	assessed.	Superior	has	

allocated	the	purchase	price	to	the	identified	assets	and	liabilities	based	on	their	current	book	value	and	fair	value	estimates	based	on	

available	information.	The	amounts	presented	are	based	on	their	estimated	fair	value,	management	expects	that	any	further	changes	will	

relate	to	finalizing	the	fair	value	of	property,	plant	and	equipment,	intangible	assets	and	goodwill.

Revenue	and	net	earnings	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019,	would	have	been	$19.1	million	and	$2.6	million,	respectively,	if	the	

acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2019. Subsequent to the acquisition date of April 1, 2019, the acquisition contributed revenue and 

net	earnings	of	$10.1	million	and	$0.3	million,	respectively,	to	the	U.S.	Propane	Distribution	segment	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019.	

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  67
Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  67

 
 
Superior	has	updated	the	preliminary	purchase	price	allocation	and	restated	the	previously	reported	estimated	fair	values	as	follows:

Current assets

Property, plant and equipment

Intangible assets

Goodwill

Contract liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Previously 
Reported

Adjustments

December 31, 
2019

2.4

7.5

16.8

0.3

 (0.5)

(1.5)

—

6.9

(13.6)

6.8

 (0.1)

—

2.4

14.4

3.2

7.1

 (0.6)

(1.5)

Property,	plant	and	equipment	was	increased	by	approximately	$6.9	million	to	$14.4	million,	as	a	result	of	finalizing	the	fair	value	for	the	

tanks	and	vehicles	acquired.	The	fair	value	of	intangible	assets	decreased	from	its	provisional	amount	by	$13.6	million	to	$3.2	million	as	a	

result	of	finalizing	assumptions	related	to	customer	relationships.	Intangible	assets	are	primarily	made	up	of	customer	relationships	and	will	

be	amortized	over	the	estimated	life	of	these	relationships	estimated	to	be	eight	years.

As	a	result	of	the	above	adjustments,	goodwill	was	increased	by	$6.8	million.	The	final	goodwill	balance	of	$7.1	million	comprises	the	value	

of expected	synergies	from	the	acquisition.

Sheldon Gas Company and Sheldon Oil Company (“Sheldon”)

On May 2, 2019, Superior closed the acquisition of the shares of Sheldon, an independent propane distributor in Northern California for 

total	consideration	of	$21.2	million	(US$15.8	million).	The	acquisition	was	funded	by	drawing	on	Superior’s	credit	facility	and	deferring	

$2.0 million	(US$1.5	million)	in	payments	over	the	next	three	years.	Included	in	the	assets	acquired	was	a	51%	interest	in	an	entity	that	

Superior	acquired	the	other	49%	previously	as	part	of	the	acquisition	of	United	Pacific	Energy.

Revenue	and	net	earnings	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019,	would	have	been	$9.3	million	and	$2.0	million,	respectively,	if	the	

acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2019. Subsequent to the acquisition date of May 2, 2019, the acquisition contributed revenue and 

net earnings	of	$4.9	million	and	$0.8	million,	respectively,	to	the	U.S.	Propane	Distribution	segment	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019.	

Superior	has	finalized	the	purchase	price	allocation	and	restated	the	previously	reported	fair	values	as	follows:

Current assets

Property, plant and equipment

Intangible assets

Goodwill

Accounts payable, accrued and other liabilities

Previously 
Reported

Adjustments

December 31, 
2019

1.7

8.1

4.8

12.2

 (1.2)

—

0.2

1.9

(2.7)

 0.6

1.7

8.3

6.7

9.5

 (0.6)

Property,	plant	and	equipment	was	increased	by	approximately	$0.2	million	to	$8.3	million,	as	a	result	of	finalizing	the	fair	value	for	all	the	

tanks	acquired.	The	fair	value	of	intangible	assets	increased	by	$1.9	million	to	$6.7	million	as	a	result	of	finalizing	assumptions	related	to	

customer	relationships.	Intangible	assets	are	primarily	made	up	of	customer	relationships	and	will	be	amortized	over	the	estimated	life	of	

these	relationships	estimated	to	be	eight	years.	Accounts	payable,	accrued	and	other	liabilities	decreased	by	approximately	$0.6	million	as	

a	result	of	finalizing	the	fair	value	of	the	Company’s	liabilities	as	at	the	acquisition	date.	As	a	result	of	the	above	adjustments,	goodwill	was	

decreased	by	$2.7	million.	The	final	goodwill	balance	of	$9.5	million	comprises	the	value	of	expected	synergies	from	the	acquisition.

68  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

  
  
Other Acquisitions

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company closed three other business acquisitions for a total consideration of approximately 

$22.8	million.	This	consisted	of	one	acquisition	in	Canada	and	two	acquisitions	in	the	U.S.	Goodwill	of	$8.2	million	forms	part	of	the	U.S.	

Propane Distribution segment.

The	purchase	price	allocations	with	these	acquisitions	are	considered	preliminary,	and	as	a	result,	may	be	adjusted	during	the	12-month	

period	following	the	acquisition	once	all	the	required	information	pertaining	to	working	capital	and	customer	attrition	is	obtained	and	

assessed.	Superior	has	allocated	the	purchase	price	to	the	identified	assets	and	liabilities	based	on	their	current	book	value	and	fair	value	

estimates based on available information. The amounts presented are based on their estimated fair value; management expects that any 

further	changes	will	relate	to	finalizing	the	fair	value	of	property,	plant	and	equipment,	intangible	assets	and	goodwill.

Revenue	and	net	earnings	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019,	would	have	been	$10.4	million	and	$2.6	million,	respectively,	if	the	

acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2019. Subsequent to the acquisition dates, the acquisitions contributed revenue and net earnings 

of $0.6	million	and	$0.1	million,	respectively,	to	the	Canadian	Propane	Distribution	segment	and	contributed	revenue	and	net	earnings	of	

$0.7	million	and	$0.2	million,	respectively,	to	the	U.S.	Propane	Distribution	segment	for	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019.

2018 Acquisitions

2018 Purchase Price Allocations

Cash

Accounts receivable

Prepaid expenses

Inventory and other current assets

Property, plant and equipment

Other assets

Intangible assets

Assets sold 

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

Contract liabilities 

Provisions and other liabilities

Long-term debt

Deferred tax liabilities

Net identifiable assets and liabilities

Consideration transferred

Fair value of deferred consideration

Cash paid on acquisition

Total consideration transferred

Goodwill arising on acquisition

(i)	 Restated	as	a	result	of	finalizing	the	purchase	price	allocations.	

NGL Propane, 
LLC(i)

United Pacific 
Energy(i)

Musco Fuel  
& Propane 
LLP

Porco  
Energy  
Corp. 

Blue  
Flame Gas 
Service

Hi-Grade  
Oil

4.7

29.3

4.4

14.5

303.5

0.6

180.9

—

(44.8)

(3.3)

(6.8)

(8.9)

—

474.1

—

1,165.6

1,165.6

691.5

0.7

14.5

4.7

1.5

18.5

4.2

11.8

—

(8.1)

—

(4.3)

—

(7.4)

36.1

—

51.4

51.4

15.3

—

0.7

—

0.1

1.7

—

12.6

—

(1.1)

—

—

—

—

—

0.8

—

0.4

5.1

—

12.8

—

(0.6)

—

—

—

—

—

0.8

—

0.1

3.9

—

10.6

—

(1.7)

—

—

—

—

14.0

18.5

13.7

1.2

17.8

19.0

5.0

5.4

13.1

18.5

—

2.1

11.6

13.7

—

—

1.0

—

—

2.3

—

3.7

2.4

(1.1)

—

—

—

—

8.3

—

8.3

8.3

—

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  69
Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  69

	
 
 
NGL Propane, LLC (“NGL”) 

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

consideration	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.	

Superior	has	finalized	the	purchase	price	allocation	and	restated	the	previously	reported	fair	values	as	follows:

Current assets

Property, plant and equipment

Other assets

Intangible assets

Goodwill

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities and contract liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Previously 
Reported

Adjustments

December 31, 
2019

52.9

386.2

0.6

164.5

624.9

(47.8)

(15.7)

—

(82.7)

— 

16.4

66.6

(0.3)

—

52.9

303.5

0.6

180.9

691.5

(48.1)

(15.7)

Property,	plant	and	equipment	were	decreased	by	approximately	$82.7	million	to	$303.5	million,	as	a	result	of	finalizing	the	fair	value	for	

all	the	tanks	and	equipment	acquired.	Intangible	assets	increased	by	$16.4	million	to	$180.9	million	and	the	increase	was	attributed	to	

customer	relationships	and	will	be	amortized	over	the	estimated	life	of	these	relationships	estimated	to	be	eight	years.	Accounts	payable	

and	accrued	liabilities	were	adjusted	to	account	for	all	liabilities	that	existed	at	the	acquisition	date.

As	a	result	of	the	above	adjustments,	goodwill	was	increased	by	$66.6	million.	The	final	goodwill	balance	of	$691.5	million	comprises	the	

value of expected synergies from the acquisition.

United Pacific Energy (“UPE”)

On	October	2,	2018,	Superior	closed	the	acquisition	of	UPE	for	$42.6	million	(US$33	million)	plus	working	capital	consideration	of	

$8.8 million	(US$6.8	million).	Goodwill	related	to	the	UPE	acquisition	is	not	deductible	for	tax	purposes	and	forms	part	of	the	Canadian	

Propane Distribution segment.

Superior	has	finalized	the	purchase	price	allocation	and	restated	the	previously	reported	fair	values	as	follows:

Current assets

Property, plant and equipment

Other assets

Intangible assets

Goodwill

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 

Other liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities

Previously 
Reported

Adjustments

December 31, 
2019

21.4

18.5

4.2

10.7

12.2

 (8.1)

(0.4)

(7.1)

—

—

—

1.1

3.1

—

(3.9)

(0.3)

21.4

18.5

4.2

11.8

15.3

 (8.1)

(4.3)

(7.4)

Intangible	assets	increased	by	approximately	$1.1	million	and	the	increase	was	mainly	attributed	to	customer	relationships	and	will	be	

amortized	over	the	estimated	life	of	these	relationships	estimated	to	be	eight	years.	Deferred	tax	liabilities	also	increased	by	$0.3	million	

due to	the	increase	in	intangible	assets.	

Other	liabilities	increased	by	approximately	$3.9	million	as	a	result	of	finalizing	the	fair	value	of	the	Company’s	other	liabilities	as	at	the	

acquisition date. 

As	a	result	of	these	adjustments,	goodwill	was	increased	by	$3.1	million.	The	final	goodwill	balance	of	$15.3	million	comprises	the	value	of	

expected synergies from the acquisition.

70  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

  
  
Upon	finalizing	the	purchase	price	allocations	for	NGL	and	UPE,	Superior	has	restated	the	comparative	period	to	record	the	impact	of	the	

finalized	purchase	price	allocation	as	if	the	accounting	for	the	business	combination	had	been	completed	at	the	acquisition	date.	As	a	result,	

the	following	changes	were	made	as	at	December	31,	2018	using	foreign	exchange	rates	prevailing	at	December	31,	2018:

Property, plant and equipment

Intangible assets

Goodwill

Other liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities

Musco Fuel & Propane LLP (“Musco”)

Reported

1,527.8

412.1

1,021.9

(12.7)

(24.7)

Adjustments

NGL

(86.0)

17.0 

69.0

—

—

UPE

Restatement

—

1.1

3.3

(4.1)

(0.3)

1,441.8

430.2

1,094.2

(16.8)

(25.0)

On November 1, 2018, Superior closed the acquisition of substantially all of the propane distribution assets of 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.

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.

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	$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.

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 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  71
Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  71

 
 
2018 Divestitures

On	April	19,	2018,	Superior	sold	its	inventory	and	fixed	assets	associated	with	the	Petrofuels	business	in	St.	Catharines,	Ontario	to	McDougall	

Energy	Inc.	for	total	consideration	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.

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

2019

320.7

8.5

329.2

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

2019

235.2

84.5

10.3

330.0

2018

246.7

94.4

13.8

354.9

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	an	allowance	of	$9.3	million	as	at	

December 31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	$11.2	million).	The	movement	in	the	allowance	for	doubtful	accounts	is	as	follows:

Allowance for doubtful accounts, beginning of the year

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 year

5. Prepaids and Deposits

Prepaid insurance

Tax installments 

Deposits

Leases and licenses 

Storage and rent

Miscellaneous prepaids and other

Prepaids and deposits

72  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

2019

(11.2)

—

(2.5)

3.5

0.9

(9.3)

2019

12.9

7.0

21.1

3.5

1.4

11.2

57.1

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

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

Inventories

Cost of inventories recognized as an expense 

Inventory write-downs to (reversals from) cost of sales

7. Property, Plant and Equipment

Cost

Balance as at December 31, 2017

  Additions

  Acquisitions through business combinations (Note 3)

  Adjustments related to ARO and provisions

  Disposals and other

  Net foreign currency exchange differences

  Reclassification

Balance as at December 31, 2018(i)

Initial adoption of IFRS 16 (Note 2)

  Additions – right-of-use assets

  Additions – property, plant and equipment

  Acquisitions through business combinations (Note 3)

  Adjustments related to ARO and provisions 

  Disposals and other

Impairment

 Net foreign currency exchange  
 differences and other

Balance as at December 31, 2019

Accumulated Depreciation

Balance at December 31, 2017

  Depreciation expense

Eliminated on disposal of assets

 Net foreign currency exchange  
 differences and other

Balance as at December 31, 2018

 Depreciation expense – property,  
 plant and equipment

  Depreciation of right-of-use assets

Eliminated on disposal of assets

Impairment

 Net foreign currency exchange differences  
 and other

Balance as at December 31, 2019

Carrying Amount

As at December 31, 2018(i)

As at December 31, 2019

(i)  Restated (see Note 3)

2019

55.5

13.2

30.2

17.3

116.2

2019

1,446.8

(6.0)

Specialty 
Chemicals 
Plant and 
Equipment

Energy 
Distribution 
Retailing 
Equipment

Leasehold 
Improvements

961.3

27.0

—

21.9

(6.2)

35.7

—

1,039.7

112.3

3.9

39.5

—

0.6

(2.9)

(41.0)

978.2

81.6

284.9

—

(168.0)

36.2

—

1,212.9

10.5

24.7

81.1

30.0

—

(17.6)

—

8.6

0.7

—

—

(2.2)

(0.1)

1.6

8.6

—

—

0.2

0.3

—

—

—

2018

87.3

10.2

31.6

17.7

146.8

2018

1,552.0

7.2

Total

2,254.1

120.4

335.0

28.6

(188.2)

84.6

—

2,634.5

178.6

37.2

128.5

32.5

12.1

(23.4)

(45.7)

(26.6)

(18.3)

1,125.5

1,323.3

3.6

12.7

(57.2)

2,897.1

571.9

44.9

(6.1)

19.6

630.3

43.6

19.7

(1.6)

(25.0)

(15.0)

652.0

409.4

473.5

471.7

93.7

(115.3)

12.2

462.3

95.3

5.4

(15.3)

—

(0.2)

547.5

750.6

775.8

4.3

0.9

(0.6)

0.2

4.8

0.9

—

—

—

0.8

6.5

3.8

6.2

1,133.3

151.9

(128.1)

35.6

1,192.7

152.6

36.5

(17.8)

(26.9)

(15.6)

1,321.5

1,441.8

1,575.6

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  73

Land

48.3

8.2

20.3

—

(3.0)

2.0

(1.6)

74.2

—

—

0.2

0.1

—

(1.6)

—

0.9

73.8

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

74.2

73.8

Buildings

257.7

2.9

29.8

6.7

(8.8)

10.8

—

299.1

55.8

8.6

7.5

2.1

11.5

(1.3)

(4.7)

(16.8)

361.8

85.4

12.4

(6.1)

3.6

95.3

12.8

11.4

(0.9)

(1.9)

(1.2)

115.5

203.8

246.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As	at	December	31,	2019,	the	carrying	amounts	of	the	right-of-use	assets	included	in	the	above	are	as	follows:

Carrying Amount

—

57.6

93.7

92.6

—

Land

Buildings

Specialty 
Chemicals 
Plant and 
Equipment

Energy 
Distribution 
Retailing 
Equipment

Leasehold 
Improvements

Total

243.9

Upon	the	adoption	of	IFRS	16,	previously	capitalized	leased	assets	of	$65.6	million	has	been	reclassified	from	property,	plant	and	equipment	

to right-of-use assets included in the above table.

Depreciation per cost category:

Selling, distribution and administrative costs

Property, plant and equipment 

  Right-of-use asset 

Cost of sales

Property, plant and equipment 

  Right-of-use asset 

Total

2019

2018

108.5

35.7

44.1

0.8

189.1

98.3

—

53.6

—

151.9

Superior evaluated the property, plant and equipment as at December 31, 2019 and 2018 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. 

8. Intangible Assets

Cost

Balance as at December 31, 2017

  Acquisitions through business combinations (Note 3)

  Additions from internal development

  Additions acquired separately

  Disposals

 Net foreign currency exchange differences  
 and other

Balance as at December 31, 2018(i)

  Acquisitions through business combinations (Note 3)

  Additions acquired separately

  Reclassifications

 Net foreign currency exchange 
 differences and other

Balance as at December 31, 2019

Accumulated Amortization

Balance as at December 31, 2017

  Amortization expense

  Disposals

 Net foreign currency exchange 
 differences and other

Balance as at December 31, 2018

  Amortization expense

 Net foreign currency exchange 
 differences and other

Balance as at December 31, 2019

Energy 
Distribution
Trademarks,
Non-Compete 
and Royalty
Agreements, 
Patents and 
Software

Specialty 
Chemicals 
Royalty Assets 
and Patents

Other 
Intangible 
Assets

Customer 
Relationships

Cap and Trade 
Emissions Units 
Purchased

156.2

201.1

—

2.1

(1.7)

0.6

358.3

15.9

—

10.0

(0.5)

383.7

0.6

2.0

—

—

2.6

52.1

2.1

56.8

10.2

1.3

—

5.5

(11.7)

—

5.3

—

10.4

—

—

15.7

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

100.1

30.0

1.0

3.1

(6.0)

12.3

140.5

0.4

7.4

(10.0)

(14.5)

123.8

34.2

44.1

(2.0)

1.6

77.9

10.3

(5.4)

82.8

7.1

—

—

—

—

0.6

7.7

—

—

—

(0.4)

7.3

—

1.1

—

—

1.1

1.1

(0.1)

2.1

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

Total

273.6

232.4

1.0

10.7

(19.4)

13.5

511.8

16.3

17.8

—

(15.4)

530.5

34.8

47.2

(2.0)

1.6

81.6

63.5

(3.4)

141.7

(i)	 Restated	the	prior	year	to	be	comparable	with	the	current	year’s	presentation	and	as	a	result	of	finalizing	the	NGL	and	UPE	purchase	price	allocations,	see	Note	3.

74  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
Carrying value

As at December 31, 2018(i)

As at December 31, 2019

Energy 
Distribution
Trademarks,
Non-Compete 
and Royalty
Agreements, 
Patents and 
Software

Specialty 
Chemicals 
Royalty Assets 
and Patents

Customer 
Relationships

Cap and Trade 
Emissions Units 
Purchased

355.7

326.9

5.3

15.7

62.6

41.0

6.6

5.2

Other 
Intangible 
Assets

—

 —

Total

430.2

388.8

(i)	 Restated	the	prior	year	to	be	comparable	with	the	current	year’s	presentation	and	as	a	result	of	finalizing	the	NGL	and	UPE	purchase	price	allocations,	see	Note	3.

Superior evaluated intangible assets as at December 31, 2019 and 2018 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	$7.4	million	(2018	–	$3.1	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. 

9. Goodwill

Balance, beginning of the year

  Additional amounts recognized from business combinations during the year (Note 3)

Effect of foreign currency differences

Balance, end of the year

(i)  Restated (see Note 3)

2019

1,094.2

24.8

(38.1)

2018(i)

352.3

711.8

30.1

1,080.9

1,094.2

Goodwill	is	a	result	of	a	number	of	previous	business	combinations	and	is	generally	attributable	to	anticipated	synergies	expected	and	

other	intangible	assets	that	are	not	required	to	be	separately	identified.	Goodwill	by	definition	has	an	indefinite	life	and,	therefore,	is	

not amortized.	

Impairment of Property, Plant and Equipment, Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill	is	subject	to	impairment	tests	at	least	annually.	For	purposes	of	impairment	testing,	Superior	assesses	goodwill	at	the	CGU	level.

The	carrying	amount	of	goodwill	as	at	December	31	was	allocated	to	the	segments	as	follows:

Canadian Propane Distribution

U.S. Propane Distribution

Specialty Chemicals

(i)  Restated (see Note 3)

2019

325.8

754.1

1.0

2018(i)

325.8

767.4

1.0

1,080.9

1,094.2

Superior conducts assessments for indicators of impairment on a quarterly basis and performs a detailed impairment assessment at least 

annually.	As	at	December	31,	2019	and	2018,	an	impairment	test	was	performed	for	all	CGUs	with	allocated	goodwill	and	no	impairment	was	

identified.	

The	recoverable	amount	of	each	CGU	for	Energy	Distribution,	which	includes	property,	plant	and	equipment	and	intangible	assets,	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. 

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  75

 
 
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	2.0%	(2018	–	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 

9.4%	to	10.0%	(2018	–	10%	to	11.6%).

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	2019	is	2.0%	(2018	–	2.0%).

Key Assumptions

In	determining	the	recoverable	amount	of	each	CGU,	business,	market	and	industry	factors	were	considered.

The	recoverable	amount	for	Specialty	Chemicals	was	based	on	its	FVLCOD.	This	was	a	change	in	approach	from	prior	years.	Management	

was	able	to	estimate	the	FVLCOD	due	to	the	strategic	review	that	was	underway	during	2019.	The	FVLCOD	was	based	on	the	best	

information	available	to	reflect	the	amount	that	could	be	obtained	from	the	disposal	of	the	CGU	in	an	arm’s-length	transaction	with	a	third	

party,	net	of	estimated	costs	of	disposal.	The	fair	value	of	calculations	is	categorized	as	Level	3	fair	value	based	on	the	unobservable	inputs.

10. Provisions

Balance as 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 as at December 31, 2018

Additions 

Utilization

Amounts reversed during the year

Unwinding of discount 

Impact of change in discount rate

Net foreign currency exchange difference

Balance as at December 31, 2019

Current (Note 11)

Non-current

Restructuring

Decommissioning

13.4

—

(7.1)

(0.1)

—

—

—

—

6.2

4.2

(4.5)

(1.1)

0.1

—

—

4.9

64.0

25.9

(0.1)

(2.1)

2.2

2.7

7.2

(0.4)

99.4

3.3

(1.1)

(0.2)

1.5

8.8

(0.4)

111.3

Other

7.8

—

—

(1.9)

—

—

—

—

5.9

—

—

(1.6)

—

—

—

4.3

 2019

7.6

112.9

120.5

Total

85.2

25.9

(7.2)

(4.1)

2.2

2.7

7.2

(0.4)

111.5

7.5

(5.6)

(2.9)

1.6

8.8

(0.4)

120.5

2018

7.8

103.7

111.5

76  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

Restructuring

Provisions	for	restructuring	are	recorded	in	provisions,	except	for	the	current	portion,	which	is	recorded	in	trade	and	other	payables.	As	at	

December	31,	2019,	the	current	portion	of	restructuring	costs	was	$4.9	million	(December	31,	2018	–	$6.2	million).

On	May	31,	2019,	Specialty	Chemicals	segment	announced	to	employees	and	other	key	stakeholders	that	it	will	close	its	sodium	chlorate	

manufacturing	facility	in	Saskatoon,	Saskatchewan,	before	the	end	of	2019.	As	a	result	of	the	announcement,	a	$4.2	million	restructuring	

provision	related	primarily	to	severance	costs	was	recorded,	of	which,	$1.1	million	has	been	reversed	during	the	year.	In	addition,	

management	reviewed	the	recoverability	of	the	related	assets	and	recorded	a	$17.5	million	asset	impairment	charge.	There	was	another	

group	of	assets	that	were	written	off	as	impaired	unrelated	to	this	plant	during	the	year	for	approximately	$2.4	million.	The	restructuring	

and impairment	expense	are	recorded	in	selling,	distribution	and	administrative	costs.

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,	2019,	the	

discount	rate	used	in	Superior’s	calculation	was	1.8%	(December	31,	2018	–	2.2%).	Superior	estimates	the	total	undiscounted	expenditures	

required	to	settle	its	decommissioning	liabilities	to	be	approximately	$154.3	million	(December	31,	2018	–	$149.8	million),	which	will	be	paid	

over the next 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.

U.S. Propane 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	$4.7	million	

as	at	December	31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	$4.6	million)	which	will	be	paid	over	the	next	15	years.	The	discount	rate	of	1.8%	as	at	

December	31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	2.2%)	was	used	to	calculate	the	present	value	of	the	estimated	cash	flows.

Other

Environmental

Provisions	for	environmental	remediation	are	made	when	a	cleanup	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	$2.9	million	as	at	December 31,	

2019,	(December	31,	2018	–	$3.0	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	a	prior	acquisition,	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.	As	a	result,	Superior	has	recorded	a	

provision	with	a	balance	of	$4.3	million	as	at	December	31,	2019,	(December	31,	2018	–	$5.9	million)	related	to	this	contract.	The	supply	

agreement ends March 31, 2022.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  77

 
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 (loss) and total comprehensive earnings 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 (loss) and total comprehensive earnings or consolidated balance sheets. 

11. Trade and Other Payables

A	summary	of	trade	and	other	payables	is	as	follows:

Trade payables

Provisions (Note 10) 

Other payables

Current taxes payable

Share-based payments, current portion

Trade and other payables

2019

307.1

7.6

92.5

11.1

5.7

424.0

2018(i)

286.1

7.8

140.5

5.3

7.9

447.6

(i)	 Restated	the	prior	period	to	be	comparable	with	the	current	year’s	presentation.

The	average	credit	period	on	purchases	by	Superior	is	38	days	(2018	–	37	days).	No	interest	is	charged	on	the	trade	payables	up	to	10	days	

(2018	–	10	days)	from	the	date	of	the	invoice.	Thereafter,	interest	is	charged	at	a	rate	of	up	to	18.0%	(2018	–	18.0%)	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

Other

Contract liabilities

Balance, beginning of the year

  Change in accounting policies

  Acquisitions 

  Additions during the year 

  Recognized in net earnings

Foreign exchange impact

Balance, end of the year

2019

18.1

—

18.1

2019

23.9

—

0.5

34.7

(39.7)

(1.3)

18.1

The Company does not generally receive deposits for periods longer than 12 months in advance of performing the related service.

13. Other Liabilities

Québec cap and trade payable

California cap and trade payable

Nova Scotia cap and trade payable

Share-based payments and others

Other liabilities

(i)	 Restated	as	a	result	of	finalizing	the	UPE	purchase	price	allocation	(see	Note	3).

78  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

2019

7.8

7.2

0.4

14.3

29.7

2018

23.1

0.8

23.9

2018

9.9

10.4

3.3

35.3

(37.7)

2.7

23.9

2018(i)

3.6

5.4

–

7.8

16.8

 
Superior	operates	in	California,	Nova	Scotia,	and	Quebec,	and	is	required	to	participate	in	the	respective	government	cap	and	trade	

programs,	which	requires	Superior	to	settle	any	liability	with	compliance	instruments	at	the	end	of	each	compliance	period.	Intangible	assets	

are	recorded	when	compliance	instruments	are	purchased,	and	cap	and	trade	liabilities	are	recorded	upon	the	import	of	propane.	These	

are	included	in	the	consolidated	statements	of	cash	flows	net	of	the	liability	that	has	been	accrued	related	to	cap	and	trade.	

14. Borrowings

Revolving Term Bank Credit Facilities(1)

  Bankers’ Acceptances (“BA”)

  Canadian Prime Rate Loan (Prime and Swing line)

LIBOR Loans  

Year of  
Maturity

Rate

2024

2024

Floating BA rate plus 1.70%

Prime rate plus 0.70%

(US$332.0 million; 2018 – US$450.1 million)

2024

Floating LIBOR rate plus 1.70%

  US Base Rate Loans (Prime and Swing line) 
(US$14 million; 2018 – US$11.0 million)

2024

U.S. Prime rate plus 0.70%

Other Debt

  Accounts receivable factoring program(2)

Floating BA Plus 1.625%

  Deferred consideration and other

2019–2023

Non-interest-bearing

Senior Unsecured Notes

Senior unsecured notes(3) 

Senior unsecured notes(4) 

Senior unsecured notes(5) 

Total borrowings before deferred financing fees

Deferred financing fees and discounts

Total borrowings before current maturities

Current maturities

Total non-current borrowings

2024

2025

2026

5.25%

5.125%

7.000%

2019

5.0

14.9

431.3

18.1

469.3

3.9

23.8

27.7

400.0

370.0

454.7

1,224.7

1,721.7

(27.3)

1,694.4

(10.1)

1,684.3

2018(i)

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

1,822.5

(32.5)

1,790.0

(10.7)

1,779.3

(i)	 Restated	the	prior	period	to	be	comparable	with	the	current	year’s	presentation;	lease	liabilities	are	now	presented	separately	on	the	adoption	of	IFRS	16.

(1)	 As	at	December	31,	2019,	Superior	had	$31.3	million	of	outstanding	letters	of	credit	(December	31,	2018	–	$41.9	million)	and	$241.0	million	of	outstanding	financial	
guarantees	on	behalf	of	its	businesses	(December	31,	2018	–	$202.8	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	and	the	short-term	nature	of	the	underlying	debt	
instruments.	On	May	8,	2019,	Superior	extended	and	restated	its	syndicated	credit	facility	with	10	lenders,	with	no	material	changes	to	the	financial	covenants	and	
extended its maturity to May 8, 2024. The credit facilities are secured by substantially all of the assets of Superior. The lender commitments remain the same at 
$750 million	and	can	be	expanded	further	to	$1,050	million	on	condition	that	no	event	of	default	has	occurred	and	lender	consent	is	provided.

(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,	2019,	the	accounts	receivable	factoring	program	is	$3.9	million	
(December 31,	2018	–	$1.9	million).

(3)	 These	senior	unsecured	notes	were	issued	at	par	value	and	mature	on	February	27,	2024.	The	senior	unsecured	notes	contain	certain	early	redemption	options	

under	which	Superior	has	the	option	to	redeem	all	or	a	portion	of	the	senior	unsecured	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. 
The	fair	value	of	the	senior	unsecured	notes	is	$410.0	million	(December	31,	2018	–	$377.0	million),	based	on	prevailing	market	prices.

(4)	 These	senior	unsecured	notes	contain	certain	early	redemption	options	under	which	Superior	has	the	option	to	redeem	all	or	a	portion	of	the	senior	unsecured	
notes	at	various	redemption	prices,	which	include	the	principal	plus	accrued	and	unpaid	interest,	if	any,	to	the	application	redemption	date.	The	fair	value	of	the	
senior	unsecured	notes	is	$374.9	million	(December	31,	2018	–	$339.5	million),	based	on	prevailing	market	prices.

(5)	 These	US$350	million	senior	unsecured	notes	contain	certain	early	redemption	options	under	which	Superior	has	the	option	to	redeem	all	or	a	portion	of	the	senior	
unsecured	notes	at	various	redemption	prices,	which	include	the	principal	plus	accrued	and	unpaid	interest,	if	any,	to	the	application	redemption	date.	The	fair	value	
of	the	senior	unsecured	notes	is	$489.0	million	(December	31,	2018	–	$469.5	million),	based	on	prevailing	market	prices.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  79

 
 
 
 
 
 
Repayment	requirements	of	borrowings	before	deferred	financing	fees	are	as	follows:

Current maturities

Due in 2021

Due in 2022

Due in 2023

Due in 2024

Due in 2025

Subsequent to 2025

Total

10.1

5.8

5.8

4.3

871.0

370.0

454.7

1,721.7

15. 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,	

2019.	The	present	value	of	the	defined-benefit	obligation,	and	the	related	current	and	past	service	costs,	were	measured	using	the	projected	

unit	credit	method,	which	is	the	same	as	that	applied	in	calculating	the	accrued	defined-benefit	obligation	recognized	in	the	consolidated	

balance sheets.

The	principal	assumptions	used	for	the	purpose	of	the	actuarial	valuation	were	as	follows:

Average discount rate

Expected rate of compensation increase

Mortality rate(i)

Defined-Benefit Plans

Other Benefit Plans

2019

3.0%

3.0%

2018

3.8%

3.0%

2019

2.8%

3.0%

2018

3.6%

3.0%

95%–112%

97%–112%

97%–109%

97%–109%

(i)	 2014	Canadian	Private	Sector	Pensioners’	Mortality	Table	combined	with	mortality	improvement	scale	MI-2017.

Canadian	Propane	Distribution	and	Specialty	Chemicals	have	defined-benefit	and	defined-contribution	pension	plans	(the	“Plans”)	covering	

most	employees.	The	benefits	provided	under	the	plans	are	based	on	the	individual	employee’s	years	of	service	and	the	highest	average	

earnings	for	a	specified	number	of	consecutive	years.	The	objective	of	the	Plans	when	managing	their	net	assets	available	for	benefits,	

which	represent	the	capital	of	the	Plans,	is	to	provide	members	with	the	retirement	benefits	prescribed	in	the	Plans.	Aside	from	a	minor	

move of the Plan assets into real estate during the last quarter of 2019, the rest of the management objectives, policies and procedures 

are unchanged	since	2018.	The	Plan	assets	are	managed	by	the	Human	Resources	and	Compensation	Committee	of	the	Board	of	Directors	

on	behalf	of	beneficiaries.	The	Human	Resources	and	Compensation	Committee	of	the	Board	of	Directors	retains	independent	managers	

and advisors.

Information	about	Superior’s	defined-benefit	and	other	post-retirement	benefit	plans	as	at	December	31,	2019	and	2018	in	aggregate	is	

as follows:

Recognized net (asset) liability arising from defined-benefit obligation

Balance as at December 31, 2019

Present value of defined-benefit obligations 

Fair value of plan assets

Net (asset) liability arising from defined-benefit obligation 

Balance as at December 31, 2018

Present value of defined-benefit obligations

Fair value of plan assets

Net (asset) liability arising from defined-benefit obligation 

Canadian Propane 
Distribution
Pension
Benefit Plans

Specialty
Chemicals
Pension Benefit
Plans

35.3

(41.1)

(5.8)

35.3

(40.2)

(4.9)

142.5

(148.7)

(6.2)

128.6

(132.4)

(3.8)

Other  
Benefit  
Plans

21.2

—

21.2

19.9

—

19.9

80  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

Movements in defined-benefit obligations and plan assets

Movement in the present value of the defined-benefit  
  obligation during the year:

Benefit obligation as at January 1

Current service cost

Interest cost

Contributions by the plan participants 

Past service cost

Actuarial gains (losses)

Benefits paid

Benefit obligation as at December 31

Movement in the fair value of the plan assets  
  during the year:

Fair value of plan assets as 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 as at December 31

Funded status – plan surplus (deficit)

Net asset (obligation) arising from defined-benefit 
  obligation 

Non-current net benefit asset (obligation)

Canadian Propane 
Distribution
Pension
Benefit Plans

Specialty Chemicals  
Pension Benefit Plans

Other  
Benefit Plans

2019

2018

2019

2018

2019

2018

35.3

—

1.3

—

—

2.0

(3.3)

35.3

40.2

1.4

2.3

0.5

—

(3.3)

—

41.1

5.8

5.8

38.8

128.6

134.4

19.9

—

1.2

—

—

(1.2)

(3.5)

35.3

43.1

1.3

(1.2)

0.6

—

(3.5)

(0.1)

1.7

4.9

0.1

0.2

13.0

(6.0)

142.5

1.9

4.4

—

—

(6.9)

(5.2)

128.6

132.4

138.2

5.0

15.9

1.6

0.1

(6.0)

(0.3)

4.6

(6.7)

1.9

—

(5.2)

(0.4)

40.2

148.7

132.4

0.3

0.7

—

—

1.6

(1.3)

21.2

—

—

—

1.3

—

(1.3)

—

—

21.0

0.3

0.7

—

—

(1.2)

(0.9)

19.9

—

—

—

1.0

—

(1.0)

—

—

4.9

4.9

6.2

6.2

3.8

3.8

(21.2)

(21.2)

(19.9)

(19.9)

The	accrued	net	pension	asset	related	to	the	Canadian	Propane	Distribution	pension	benefit	plan	on	December	31,	2019	was	$5.8	million	

(December	31,	2018	–	$4.9	million),	and	the	expense	for	2019	was	nil	(2018	–	nil).	The	accrued	net	pension	asset	related	to	the	Specialty	

Chemicals	pension	benefit	plan	on	December	31,	2019	was	$6.2	million	(2018	–	$3.8	million),	and	the	expense	for	2019	was	$2.0	million	

(2018	–	$2.2	million).	

	The	accrued	net	benefit	obligation	related	to	the	total	other	benefit	plans	of	Canadian	Propane	Distribution	and	Specialty	Chemicals	on	

December	31,	2019	was	$21.2	million	(2018	–	$19.9	million),	and	the	expense	for	2019	was	$1.0	million	(2018	–	$1.0	million).	Amounts	

recognized	in	net	earnings	(loss)	in	respect	of	these	defined-benefit	plans	are	as	follows	for	the	years	ended	December	31:

Service cost

Current service cost

Administrative expense

Past service cost

Net interest expense 

Components of defined-benefit costs recognized in net earnings (loss)

2019

2018

2.0

0.3

0.2

0.5

3.0

2.2

0.5

—

0.4

3.1

The service cost, administrative expense and net interest expense related to Canadian Propane Distribution and Specialty Chemicals on 

December	31,	2019	was	$3.0	million	(December	31,	2018	–	$3.1	million)	and	is	included	in	selling,	distribution	and	administrative	costs.	

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  81

 
The	remeasurement	of	the	net	defined-benefit	liability	is	included	in	other	comprehensive	earnings	(loss).	The	amounts	recognized	in	

accumulated	other	comprehensive	earnings	in	respect	of	these	benefit	plans	are	as	follows:	

Actuarial defined-benefit losses (before income taxes)

Cumulative actuarial losses (before income taxes)

Remeasurement of the net benefit obligation: 

Cumulative actuarial gains (before income taxes), beginning of the year 

Actuarial asset experience gain 

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 

2019

1.6

(0.3)

2019

(1.9)

18.2

(16.6)

—

(0.3)

2018

1.1

(1.9)

2018

(3.1)

(8.0)

10.0

(0.8)

(1.9)

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,	2019,	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	Canadian	Propane	

Distribution	of	$3.5	million	as	at	December	31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	$3.4	million)	and	a	change	to	the	current	service	expense	of	

$0.1	million	as	at	December	31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	$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	$23.0	million	as	at	December	31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	

$19.7 million)	and	a	change	to	the	current	service	expense	of	$0.9	million	at	December	31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	$1.0	million).

Compensation Increase 

A	1%	change	in	the	salary	would	result	in	a	change	to	the	accrued	defined-benefit	obligation	related	to	Canadian	Propane	Distribution	

of	nil	as	at	December	31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	nil)	and	a	change	to	the	current	service	expense	of	nil	as	at	December	31,	2019	

(December 31,	2018	–	nil).	A	1%	change	in	salary	would	result	in	a	change	to	the	accrued	defined-benefit	obligation	related	to	Specialty	

Chemicals	of	$2.5	million	as	at	December	31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	$1.6	million)	and	a	change	to	the	current	service	expense	of	

$0.2 million	as	at	December	31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	$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	Canadian	Propane	

Distribution	of	$1.9	million	as	at	December	31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	$1.8	million)	and	a	change	to	the	current	service	expense	of	

$0.1 million	as	at	December	31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	$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	$4.3	million	as	at	December	31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	$3.4	million)	

and	a	change	to	the	current	service	expense	of	$0.2	million	as	at	December	31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	$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	Canadian	Propane	Distribution	

of	$0.4	million	as	at	December	31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	$0.4	million)	and	a	change	to	the	current	service	expense	of	nil	as	at	

December 31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	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	$1.1	million	as	at	December	31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	$0.9	million)	and	a	change	

to the	current	service	expense	of	$0.1	million	as	at	December	31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	$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.	

There	were	no	changes	in	the	methods	or	assumptions	used	in	preparing	the	sensitivity	analysis	from	prior	years.	

82  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

The	average	duration	of	the	net	benefit	obligation	related	to	Canadian	Propane	Distribution	is	7.9	years	as	at	December	31,	2019	

(December 31,	2018	–	7.6	years)	and	related	to	Specialty	Chemicals	is	13.9	years	as	at	December	31,	2019	(December	31,	2018	–	13.2	years).

As	at	December	31,	2019,	Superior	expects	to	make	a	contribution	to	the	Canadian	Propane	Distribution	Pension	Benefit	Plans	of	

$1.4 million	and	to	the	Specialty	Chemicals	Pension	Benefit	Plans	of	$2.3	million	during	2020.

The	fair	values	of	plan	assets	as	at	December	31,	2019,	by	major	asset	category,	are	as	follows:

Canadian equities 

Foreign equities 

Fixed income 

Real estate

Total

Canadian Propane Distribution 
Pension Benefit Plans

Specialty Chemicals  
Pension Benefit Plans

Level 2

Percentage

Level 2

Percentage

4.0

—

37.1

—

41.1

9.7%

—

90.3%

—

100%

38.7

38.4

66.2

5.5

148.8

26.0%

25.8%

44.5%

3.7%

100%

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

Canadian Propane Distribution 
Pension Benefit Plans

Specialty Chemicals  
Pension Benefit Plans

Level 2

Percentage

Level 2

Percentage

3.9

—

36.3

40.2

9.7%

—

90.3%

100.0%

36.0

36.2

60.2

132.4

27.2%

27.4%

45.4%

100.0%

The	actual	returns	on	Canadian	Propane	Distribution	and	Specialty	Chemicals	plan	assets	during	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019	were	

9.4%	(2018	–	0.1%)	and	15.9%	(2018	–	-1.8%),	respectively.	

As	part	of	the	risk	management	process,	Superior	has	established	a	diversification	policy,	set	rate	of	return	objectives,	and	developed	

specific	investment	guidelines.

As at December 31, 2019, the asset-matching strategic choices that are formulated in the actuarial and Superior’s Statement of Investment 

Policies	and	Procedures	(“SIPP”)	of	the	total	defined-benefit	plan	assets	are:	

Canadian equities 

Global equities 

Fixed income 

Real estate

(i)  Based on Superior’s SIPP. 

Canadian Propane Distribution 
Pension Benefit Plans

Specialty Chemicals  
Pension Benefit Plans

Range(i)(ii)

Range(i)(ii)

2.0%–7.0%

2.0%–7.0%

89.0%–92.0%

—

5.0%–11.0%

25.0%–38.0%

40.0%–58.0%

10.0%–23.0%

(ii)	 Canadian	Propane	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,	2018,	the	asset-matching	strategic	choices	that	are	formulated	in	the	actuarial	and	SIPP	of	the	total	defined-benefit	plan	

assets are: 

Canadian equities 

Global equities 

Fixed income 

(i)  Based on Superior’s SIPP. 

Canadian Propane Distribution 
Pension Benefit Plans

Specialty Chemicals  
Pension Benefit Plans

Range(i)(ii)

—

—

100%

Range(i)(ii)

25.0%–35.0%

25.0%–35.0%

35.0%–45.0%

(ii)	 Canadian	Propane	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.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  83

 
16. 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 1	–	Quoted	prices	in	active	markets	for	identical	instruments.

 »  Level 2	–	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 3	–	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	FVTPL	upon	their	initial	recognition.

For	items	that	are	recognized	at	fair	value	on	a	recurring	basis,	the	Company	determines	whether	transfers	have	occurred	between	levels	in	

the	hierarchy	by	reassessing	their	classification	at	the	end	of	each	reporting	period.	During	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019,	there	were	

no	transfers	between	Level	1	and	Level	2	fair	value	measurements,	and	no	transfers	into	or	out	of	Level	3	fair	value	measurements.

Assets

Foreign currency forward contracts, net sale

Equity derivative contract 

Propane, diesel, butane and heating oil wholesale purchase  

and sale contracts, net sale – Energy Distribution

Total assets

Liabilities

Foreign currency forward contracts, net sale

Cross-currency interest rate exchange agreements

Propane, diesel, butane and heating oil wholesale purchase  

and sale contracts, net sale – Energy Distribution

Total liabilities

Total net liabilities

Current portion of assets

Current portion of liabilities

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

As at December 31, 2019

3.5

—

—

3.5

3.2

5.8

—

9.0

(5.5)

2.1

7.8

—

0.9

3.3

4.2

—

—

16.3

16.3

(12.1)

3.3

15.9

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

3.5

0.9

3.3

7.7

3.2

5.8

16.3

25.3

(17.6)

5.4

23.7

84  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
Assets

Foreign currency forward contracts

Natural gas financial swaps – AECO

Cross-currency interest rate exchange agreements

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

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 liabilities

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

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$287.1

2020–2023

$1.30  Quoted bid prices in the active market.

Cross-currency interest rate exchange agreements

US$170.0

2020

$1.30  Quoted bid prices in the active market.

Level 2 fair value hierarchy:

Equity derivative contracts

C$21.8

2020–2022

$12.06  Discounted cash flows – Future cash 

Propane, WTI, butane, heating oil and diesel  
  wholesale purchase and sale contracts –  

Energy Distribution

(1)   Millions of United States gallons (“USG”) purchased.

135.47 USG(1)

2020–2022

$0.42–$2.03

flows are estimated based on the share 
price.

Quoted bid prices for similar products in 
an active market.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  85

 
 
 
 
 
Superior’s	realized	and	unrealized	financial	instrument	gains	(losses)	for	the	years	ended	December	31,	2019	and	2018	are	as	follows:

Description

Foreign currency forward contracts – net sale

Transfer of derivative losses from accumulated  
  other comprehensive earnings

Foreign currency forward contracts related to  

the NGL financing

Cross-currency interest rate swaps

Equity derivative contracts

Propane, WTI, butane, heating oil and diesel wholesale 
  purchase and sale contracts – Energy Distribution

Total gains (losses) on financial and non-financial derivatives

Foreign currency translation of borrowings 

Total gains (losses) 

Realized  
Loss

Unrealized  
Gain (Loss)

(11.2)

34.3

2019

Total

23.1

Realized  
Loss

Unrealized  
Gain (Loss)

(9.2)

(37.7)

—

—

—

—

(29.9)

(41.1)

—

(41.1)

(7.1)

(7.1)

—

(12.8)

5.1

0.4

19.9

38.4

58.3

—

(12.8)

5.1

(29.5)

(21.2)

38.4

17.2

—

4.5

—

—

(0.9)

(5.6)

—

(5.6)

—

—

9.8

(3.4)

(27.8)

(59.1)

(27.2)

(86.3)

2018

Total

(46.9)

—

4.5

9.8

(3.4)

(28.7)

(64.7)

(27.2)

(91.9)

Realized	and	unrealized	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	consolidated	statements	of	net	earnings	

(loss) and total comprehensive earnings as a component of other income (loss). 

The	following	summarizes	Superior’s	classification	and	measurement	of	financial	assets	and	liabilities:

Financial Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables

Derivative assets

Notes and finance lease receivable

Financial liabilities

Trade and other payables

Dividends payable

Borrowings

Derivative liabilities

Classification

Measurement

Loans and receivables

Loans and receivables

FVTPL

Loans and receivables

Other liabilities

Other liabilities

Other liabilities

FVTPL

Amortized cost

Amortized cost

Fair Value

Amortized cost

Amortized cost

Amortized cost

Amortized cost

Fair Value

The	fair	value	of	cash	and	cash	equivalents,	trade	and	other	receivables,	notes	and	finance	lease	receivable,	trade	and	other	payables,	

dividends	payable	and	revolving	term	bank	credit	facilities	correspond	to	the	respective	carrying	amounts	due	to	their	short-term	nature	

and/or	the	interest	rate	on	the	asset	is	commensurate	with	market	interest	rates	for	the	type	of	asset	with	similar	duration	and	credit	risk.	

The	fair	value	of	senior	unsecured	notes	disclosed	in	Note	14	are	determined	by	quoted	market	prices	(Level	1	fair	value	hierarchy).

Offsetting of financial instruments 

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,	2019	and	2018,	Superior	has	not	recorded	any	

amount	against	other	current	and	non-current	financial	liabilities.

86  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 
Financial Instruments – Risk Management

Market Risk

Financial	derivatives	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	financial	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	financial	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 Canadian Propane Distribution segment has nominal exposure to any losses or gains related 

to	the	remaining	natural	gas	financial	swaps,	which	expire	in	2020.	

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	long-term	debt	

instruments.	Superior	reviews	its	mix	of	short-term	and	long-term	debt	instruments	on	an	ongoing	basis	to	ensure	it	is	able	to	meet	its	

liquidity requirements. 

Credit Risk

Superior	utilizes	a	variety	of	counterparties	in	relation	to	its	financial	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	U.S.)	and	end-use	(primarily	commercial,	residential	and	

industrial)	markets.

Allowances	for	doubtful	accounts	and	past	due	receivables	are	reviewed	by	Superior	as	at	each	consolidated	balance	sheet	date.	Superior	

updates	its	estimate	of	the	allowance	for	doubtful	accounts	based	on	the	evaluation	of	the	recoverability	of	trade	and	other	receivables	

with	each	customer,	taking	into	account	historical	collection	trends	of	past	due	accounts	and	current	economic	conditions.	Trade	and	other	

receivables	are	written	off	once	it	is	determined	they	are	uncollectible.	

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  87

 
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 the end of each reporting period. Superior uses equity derivatives to manage volatility derived from its share-based 

compensation program.

As	at	December	31,	2019,	Superior	estimates	that	a	10%	increase	in	its	share	price	would	have	resulted	in	a	$2.3	million	increase	in	earnings	

due to the revaluation of equity derivative contracts. 

Superior’s	contractual	obligations	associated	with	its	financial	liabilities	are	as	follows:

Borrowings 

Lease liabilities

Non-cancellable, low-value, short-term  
leases and leases with variable lease 

  payments 

US$-foreign currency forward sales 

contracts

Propane, WTI, butane, heating oil 

and diesel wholesale purchase and sale 
contracts – Energy Distribution

2020

10.1

52.8

2021

5.8

38.7

2022

5.8

35.5

2023

4.3

26.9

2024

871.0

19.1

2025

370.0

—

2026 and 
thereafter

Total

454.7

1,721.7

61.4

234.4

2.1

0.2

0.2

—

125.8

86.8

51.5

23.0

112.3

6.8

1.3

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

2.5

—

287.1

—

120.4

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 are consistent as at December 31, 2019 and 2018.

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

2019

+/- 0.3

+/- 2.3

+/- 0.7

+/- 6.9

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.

88  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
17. 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 Canadian, U.S. income taxes, Chilean and Luxembourg income taxes. 

The	income	taxes	differ	from	the	amount	computed	by	applying	the	corporate	Canadian	federal-provincial	enacted	statutory	rate	for	2019	

of 26.78%	(2018	–	26.98%).	The	statutory	rates	reflect	previously	enacted	provincial	tax	rate	increases.	The	reasons	for	these	differences	

are as	follows:

Net earnings (loss) for the year

Income tax expense (recovery)

Earnings (loss) before income taxes

Computed income tax expense 

Changes in effective foreign tax rates

Changes in future income tax rates

Non-deductible costs and other

Adjustments in respect of prior years

Change in amount of unrecognized asset

Other 

Income tax expense (recovery)

Income	tax	expense	(recovery)	for	the	years	ended	December	31,	2019	and	2018	is	comprised	of	the	following:

Current income tax expense 

Current income tax charge

Adjustments in respect of prior years

Total current income tax expense

Deferred income tax expense (recovery)

Relating to origination and reversal of temporary differences

Relating to changes in tax rates or the imposition of new taxes

Adjustments in respect of prior years

Change in amount of unrecognized asset

Other

Total deferred income tax expense (recovery)

Income tax expense (recovery)

2019

142.6

25.0

167.6

44.9

(0.2)

(0.7)

(30.6)

4.5

9.6

(2.5)

25.0

2018

(34.0)

(0.3)

(34.3)

(9.9)

(0.1)

0.1

7.1

1.9

(1.7)

2.3

(0.3)

2019

2018

9.9

3.2

13.1

1.3

(0.7)

1.3

9.6

0.4

11.9

25.0

4.8

(2.9)

1.9

(3.2)

0.1

4.8

(1.7)

(2.2)

(2.2)

(0.3)

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  89

 
Deferred	tax	for	the	years	ended	December	31,	2019	and	2018	is	comprised	of	the	following:	

December 31, 2019

Provisions

Lease liabilities

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

(i)  Restated (see Note 2 (b))

December 31, 2018

Provisions

Lease liabilities

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

(i)  Restated (see Note 2 (b))

(Credited)
Charged to
Net Earnings 
(Loss) 
(Continuing)

(Credited)
Charged  
to Other
Comprehensive 
Earnings (Loss)

Opening
 Balance(i)

Acquisitions

Exchange 
Differences

Closing 
Balance

26.2

17.2

(7.3)

11.5

64.2

141.3

(319.0)

16.1

61.3

12.2

—

23.7

Opening 
Balance

18.0

17.7

0.6

2.1

64.4

38.6

(208.0)

17.4

76.1

(3.5)

(0.4)

23.0

4.1

45.5

—

(4.7)

(2.6)

(75.0)

31.9

3.4

(6.5)

(7.6)

(0.4)

(11.9)

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

(0.4)

—

—

—

(0.4)

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

(0.7)

(1.3)

—

—

—

(3.4)

7.1

(0.4)

—

—

—

1.3

29.6

61.4

(7.3)

6.8

61.6

62.9

(280.0)

18.7

54.8

4.6

(0.4)

12.7

(Credited)
Charged to
Net Earnings 
(Loss) 
(Continuing)

(Credited)
Charged to
Other
Comprehensive 
Earnings (Loss)

Acquisitions

Exchange 
Differences

Closing
Balance(i)

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

—

—

—

—

—

—

(7.1)

—

—

—

—

(7.1)

1.2

0.5

0.1

—

—

17.5

(22.2)

0.6

—

0.4

0.2

(1.7)

26.2

17.2

(7.3)

11.5

64.2

141.3

(319.0)

16.1

61.3

12.2

—

23.7

Deferred	taxes	reported	in	the	two	preceding	tables	are	presented	on	a	functional	basis	while	deferred	taxes	reported	on	the	consolidated	

balance sheets are on a legal-entity basis. 

The	net	deferred	income	tax	asset	relates	to	the	following	tax	jurisdictions	as	at	December	31,	2019	and	2018:

Canada

U.S.

Chile

Total net deferred income tax asset

(i)  Restated (see Note 2 (b))

2019

39.5

(20.1)

(6.7)

12.7

2018(i)

47.9

(16.9)

(7.3)

23.7

90  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

Superior	has	available	to	carry	forward	the	following	as	at	December	31,	2019	and	2018:

Canadian non-capital losses

Canadian scientific research expenditures

Canadian capital losses

U.S. non-capital losses 

Canadian federal and provincial investment tax credits 

2019

24.4

214.0

—

212.0

84.2

2018

8.0

227.5

2.5

515.3

88.2

The	Canadian	scientific	research	expenditures	and	the	Canadian	capital	losses	may	be	carried	forward	indefinitely.	

Non-Capital Loss Carry Forwards Available for Future Years

As	at	December	31,	2019,	Superior	had	non-capital	loss	carry-forwards	available	to	reduce	future	years’	taxable	income	for	Canada	of	

$24.4 million	and	U.S.	of	$212.0	million,	all	due	to	expire	beyond	2022.	

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, 2019, Superior had Canadian federal and provincial investment tax credits available to reduce future years’ taxable 

income,	which	expire	as	follows:	

2020

2021

2022

2023

Thereafter 

Total 

As	at	December	31,	2019	and	2018,	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

2019

35.8

—

35.8

Canada

—

15.2

8.7

14.8

45.5

84.2

2018

8.2

2.5

10.7

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	against	which	to	utilize	the	temporary	differences.	

In	Chile,	the	local	tax	laws	provide	that	any	profits	distributed	outside	of	Chile	be	subject	to	a	35%	tax.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  91

 
18. 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.

As at January 1, 2018

Issuance of common shares

Net loss for the year

Other comprehensive earnings

Dividends and dividend equivalent declared to shareholders

Change in accounting policy as a result of the adoption of IFRS 15

As at December 31, 2018

Net earnings for the year

Other comprehensive loss

Dividends and dividend equivalent declared to shareholders

As at December 31, 2019

Issuance of Common Shares

Issued Number of 
Common Shares 
(Millions)

Share Capital

Total Equity

142.8

32.1

—

—

—

—

1,953.5

386.4

—

—

—

—

174.9

2,339.9

—

—

—

—

—

—

174.9

2,339.9

776.0

386.4

(34.0)

82.5

(114.4)

(7.6)

1,088.9

142.6

(66.6)

(125.9)

1,039.0

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	intended	to	use	the	net	proceeds	to	

fund	tuck-in	acquisitions	and	repay	indebtedness	under	Superior’s	credit	facilities.	During	the	fourth	quarter	of	2018,	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	incurred	a	2%	

commission	issuing	shares	through	this	program.	This	agreement	expired	on	December	9,	2018	and	was	not	subsequently	renewed.	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.

92  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings

Accumulated other comprehensive earnings 

Currency translation adjustment

  Balance, beginning of the year

  Unrealized foreign currency gains (losses) on translation of foreign operations

  Balance, end of the year

Actuarial defined benefits

  Balance, beginning of the year

  Actuarial defined-benefit gains

Income tax expense on other comprehensive earnings (loss)

  Balance, end of the year

Accumulated derivative losses

  Balance, beginning of the year

Transfer of derivative losses from accumulated other comprehensive earnings

  Balance, end of the year

2019

2018

180.5

(74.9)

105.6

98.9

81.6

180.5

(1.5)

1.6

(0.4)

(0.3)

(7.1)

7.1

—

(2.4)

1.2

(0.3)

(1.5)

(7.1)

—

(7.1)

Accumulated other comprehensive earnings, end of the year

105.3

171.9

Other Capital Disclosure

Additional Capital Disclosure

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 earnings, 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,	2019,	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.

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  93

 
 
 
19.  Supplemental Disclosure of Consolidated Statements of Net Earnings (Loss)  

and Total Comprehensive Earnings 

Years Ended December 31

2019

2018(i)

2,704.2

2,614.1

101.4

47.3

81.8

41.8

2,852.9

2,737.7

(1,595.0)

(1,735.9)

(44.9)

(53.6)

(1,639.9)

(1,789.5)

(246.9)

(29.9)

(2.1)

(364.2)

(68.1)

(6.3)

(35.7)

(108.5)

(63.5)

(2.5)

1.5

(19.9)

—

(2.2)

(253.5)

(39.5)

(2.5)

(296.4)

(60.8)

(6.2)

—

(98.3)

(47.2)

—

2.2

—

(0.1)

2.0

(948.3)

(800.3)

(91.9)

(13.3)

—

(9.1)

(114.3)

(41.1)

58.3

17.2

167.6

(13.1)

(11.9)

(25.0)

142.6

(67.4)

(2.7)

(9.8)

(10.4)

(90.3)

(5.6)

(86.3)

(91.9)

(34.3)

(1.9)

2.2

0.3

(34.0)

Revenue

  Revenue from products

  Revenue from the rendering of services

Tank and equipment rental

Cost of sales (includes products and services)

  Cost of products and services

  Depreciation included in cost of sales

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 of right-of-use assets

  Depreciation included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

  Amortization of intangible assets

Low value, short-term and variable lease payments

  Gain on disposal of assets

Impairment of Specialty Chemicals equipment

  Realized loss on long-term incentive program (LTIP)

  Realized gain (loss) on the translation of U.S.-denominated net working capital

Finance expense

Interest on borrowings

Interest on lease liability

Premium paid on redemption of 6.5% debenture

  Unwinding of discount on decommissioning liabilities and non-cash financing expenses

Other income (loss)

  Realized loss on financial and non-financial derivatives and foreign currency translation 

  Unrealized gain (loss) on financial and non-financial derivatives and foreign currency translation 

Earnings (loss) before income taxes

Income tax recovery (expense)

  Current income tax expense

  Deferred income tax recovery (expense)

Net earnings (loss) for the year

(i)	 Restated	the	prior	period	to	be	comparable	with	the	current	year’s	presentation.	

94  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
20. Net Earnings (Loss) Per Share, Basic and Diluted

Net earnings (loss) for the year

Weighted average shares outstanding (millions)

Net earnings (loss) per share, basic and diluted 

21. Disaggregation of Revenue

Revenue	is	disaggregated	by	primary	geographical	market,	type	of	customer	and	major	product	and	services	lines.

For the year ended December 31, 2019

Revenue from sale of products

Revenue from services

Tank and equipment rental

Total revenue

Revenue from sale of chemicals

Revenue from services

Total revenue

For the year ended December 31, 2018

Revenue from sale of products

Revenue from services

Tank and equipment rental

Total revenue

Revenue from sale of chemicals

Revenue from services

Total revenue

Canada

777.8

46.3

31.9

856.0

Canada

158.6

2.5

161.1

Canada

893.1

46.9

35.3

975.3

Canada

156.1

0.7

156.8

U.S.

1,249.9

50.3

15.4

1,315.6

U.S.

411.6

2.2

413.8

U.S.

1,047.1

32.3

6.5

1,085.9

U.S.

419.4

1.8

421.2

2019

$ 142.6

174.9

$  0.82

2018

$ (34.0)

158.1

$ (0.22)

Propane Distribution

Other

—

—

—

—

Total

2,027.7

96.6

47.3

2,171.6

Specialty Chemicals

Other

106.3

0.1

106.4

Other

—

—

—

—

Other

98.4

0.1

98.5

Total

676.5

4.8

681.3

Propane Distribution

Total

1,940.2

79.2

41.8

2,061.2

Specialty Chemicals

Total

673.9

2.6

676.5

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  95

 
22. 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,	2019,	total	compensation	expense	related	to	RSs,	PSs	and	DSs	was	$11.8	million	(2018	–	$5.6	million).	

Exercises	during	the	year	ended	December	31,	2019	under	the	long-term	incentive	plan	were	completed	at	a	weighted	average	price	

of	$11.69	per	share	(2018	–	$11.97	per	share)	for	RSs,	and	$10.26	per	share	(2018	–	$13.06	per	share)	for	PSs.	For	the	year	ended	

December 31,	2019,	the	total	carrying	amount	of	the	liability	related	to	RSs,	PSs	and	DSs	was	$19.1	million	(2018	–	$16.0	million).

The	movement	in	the	number	of	shares	under	the	long-term	incentive	program	was	as	follows:

Opening number of shares

Granted

Performance factor   

RSs

623,352

362,783

PSs

917,625

362,783

adjustment and other

—

184,707

Dividends reinvested

Forfeited

Exercised

43,724

(860)

66,499

(12,361)

DSs

2019
Total

487,254

2,028,231

14,253

739,819

—

27,521

(58,718)

184,707

137,744

(71,939)

RSs

577,826

311,878

—

41,108

PSs

980,935

311,878

31,262

67,768

(39,992)

(296,123)

DSs

2018
Total

444,646

2,003,407

68,983

692,739

—

31,262

27,024

(53,399)

—

135,900

(389,514)

(445,563)

(304,785)

(452,344)

—

(757,129)

(267,468)

(178,095)

Ending number of shares

724,214

1,066,909

470,310

2,261,433

623,352

917,625

487,254

2,028,231

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,	2019,	Superior	had	outstanding	notional	values	of	$21.8	million	(2018	–	$20.4	million)	of	equity	derivative	

contracts	at	an	average	share	price	of	$12.06	(2018	–	$12.65).	See	Note	16	for	further	details.

96  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 
23. Supplemental Disclosure of Non-Cash Operating Working Capital Changes

Changes in non-cash operating working capital and other

Trade and other receivables, prepaids and deposits

Inventories

Trade and other payables and other liabilities

Changes in liabilities arising from financing activities

Balance as at January 1

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

Non-cash finance expense

Deferred acquisition payments 

Lease additions including adoption of IFRS 16, net of repayments

Debt issue costs

Other, including foreign exchange

Balance as at December 31

2019

2018

26.0

49.3

(31.6)

43.7

(24.7)

(9.5)

9.2

(25.0)

2019

2018

1,853.8

(63.4)

5.8

(0.2)

178.0

(0.6)

(44.6)

1,052.8

738.9

6.7

12.9

16.0

(17.9)

44.4

1,928.8

1,853.8

24. 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(i)

Other long-term employee benefits 

Share-based payments

(i)	 Short-term	employee	benefits	paid	to	directors	and	other	members	of	key	management	personnel	include	salaries	and	bonuses.

2019

7.9

0.1

4.6

12.6

2018

7.2

0.2

4.2

11.6

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  97

 
25. Group Entities

Significant Subsidiaries

SP Reinsurance Company Limited

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

Sheldon Gas Company

Sheldon Oil Company

Sheldon United Terminals, LLC

United Liquid Gas Company, Inc. 

Country of Organization

Ownership Interest (Direct and Indirect)

Bermuda

Canada

Canada

Canada

Canada

Canada

Canada

Canada

Canada

Chile

Luxembourg

U.S.

U.S.

U.S.

U.S.

U.S.

U.S.

U.S.

U.S.

U.S.

U.S.

U.S.

U.S.

U.S.

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

98  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

26. Reportable Segment Information

Superior operates three operating segments: Canadian Propane Distribution, U.S. Propane Distribution and Specialty Chemicals. The 

Canadian	Propane	Distribution	segment	includes	the	Canadian	retail	business	and	wholesale	business	with	offices	located	in	Canada	and	

California.	The	U.S.	Propane	Distribution	segment	distributes	propane	gas	and	liquid	fuels	along	the	Eastern	U.S.,	and	into	the	Midwest	and	

California. 

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.	

Superior’s	Chief	Operating	Decision	Maker,	the	President,	reviews	the	operating	results,	assesses	performance,	and	makes	capital	allocation	

decisions	with	respect	to	the	Canadian	Propane	Distribution,	U.S.	Propane	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. 

2019

Revenue

Cost of sales (includes products and services)

Gross profit

Expenses

  Depreciation included in selling, distribution and administrative costs 

  Depreciation of right-of-use assets

  Amortization of intangible assets included in selling, distribution  

and administrative costs

Selling, distribution and administrative costs

Finance expense 

Other income (loss)

Earnings (loss) before income taxes

Income tax expense

Net earnings (loss) for the year 

2018(i)

Revenue

Cost of sales (includes products and services)

Gross profit

Expenses

Canadian 
Propane
Distribution

U.S. Propane
Distribution

Specialty 
Chemicals

Corporate

Total

1,147.5

1,024.1

(680.4)

467.1

(40.0)

(9.1)

(22.8)

(243.9)

(4.4)

(16.7)

(336.9)

130.2

—

130.2

(514.7)

509.4

(60.5)

(4.9)

(39.6)

(308.9)

(4.4)

(11.7)

(430.0)

79.4

—

79.4

681.3

(444.8)

236.5

(7.9)

(21.4)

(1.1)

(153.0)

(8.1)

2.9

(188.6)

47.9

—

47.9

—

—

—

(0.1)

(0.3)

—

(34.8)

(97.4)

42.7

(89.9)

(89.9)

(25.0)

(114.9)

2,852.9

(1,639.9)

1,213.0

(108.5)

(35.7)

(63.5)

(740.6)

(114.3)

17.2

(1,045.4)

167.6

(25.0)

142.6

Canadian  
Propane 
Distribution

1,135.9

(729.5)

406.4

U.S. Propane 
Distribution

Specialty 
Chemicals

Corporate

Total

925.3

(615.5)

309.8

676.5

(444.5)

232.0

—

—

—

2,737.7

(1,789.5)

948.2

  Depreciation included in selling, distribution and administrative costs

(59.0)

(39.1)

—

(0.2)

(98.3)

  Amortization of intangible assets included in selling, 

distribution and administrative costs

Selling, distribution and administrative costs

Finance expense 

Other income (loss)

Earnings (loss) before income taxes

Income tax recovery

Net earnings (loss) for the year 

(27.1)

(255.8)

(2.2)

(16.6)

(360.7)

45.7

—

45.7

(19.0)

(208.7)

(2.5)

(12.8)

(282.1)

27.7

—

27.7

(1.1)

(148.2)

(2.3)

—

(151.6)

80.4

—

80.4

—

(42.1)

(83.3)

(62.5)

(188.1)

(188.1)

0.3

(187.8)

(47.2)

(654.8)

(90.3)

(91.9)

(982.5)

(34.3)

0.3

(34.0)

(i)	 Restated	the	prior	year	to	be	comparable	with	the	current	year’s	presentation	(see	Note	2	(b)).

Annual Report 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  99

 
 
 
 
 
Net Working Capital, Total Assets, Total Liabilities and Purchase of Property, Plant and Equipment

As at December 31, 2019

  Net working capital(i)

Total assets

Total liabilities

As at December 31, 2018

  Net working capital(i)

Total assets(ii)

Total liabilities(ii)

For the year ended December 31, 2019

Purchase of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

For the year ended December 31, 2018

Purchase of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

Canadian 
Propane 
Distribution

U.S. Propane 
Distribution

Specialty 
Chemicals

Corporate

Total

42.0

1,167.7

295.1

76.9
1,227.2

254.7

50.3

52.1

(0.4)

1,600.2

268.8

16.3
1,690.4

356.5

44.4

25.5

56.9

797.8

338.8

49.4
710.5

223.1

41.2

28.2

(48.6)

72.3

1,696.3

(45.3)
25.9

1,730.8

—

—

49.9

3,638.0

2,599.0

97.3
3,654.0

2,565.1

135.9

105.8

(i)	 Net	working	capital	is	composed	of	trade	and	other	receivables,	prepaids	and	deposits	and	inventories,	less	trade	and	other	payables,	contract	liabilities	and	

dividends and interest payable.

(ii)	 Restated	as	a	result	of	finalizing	the	NGL	and	UPE	purchase	price	allocations,	see	Note	3.

27. Geographical Information

Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2019

Property, plant and equipment as at December 31, 2019

Right-of-use assets as at December 31, 2019

Intangible assets as at December 31, 2019

Goodwill as at December 31, 2019

Total assets as at December 31, 2019

Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2018(i)

Property, plant and equipment as at December 31, 2018(ii)

Intangible assets as at December 31, 2018(ii)

Goodwill as at December 31, 2018(ii)

Total assets as at December 31, 2018(ii)

(i)	 Restated	the	prior	year	to	be	comparable	with	the	current	year’s	presentation.

(ii)	 Restated	as	a	result	of	finalizing	the	NGL	and	UPE	purchase	price	allocations,	see	Note	3.

28. Subsequent Events

Canada

1,017.1

596.9

146.0

152.3

325.8

1,562.3

1,132.1

636.9

156.6

325.8

U.S.

1,729.4

696.0

97.1

236.5

755.1

2,021.5

1,507.0

755.2

273.6

768.4

1,494.5

2,108.7

Other

106.4

38.8

0.8

—

—

54.2

98.6

49.7

—

—

50.8

Total  
Consolidated

2,852.9

1,331.7

243.9

388.8

1,080.9

3,638.0

2,737.7

1,441.8

430.2

1,094.2

3,654.0

On January 9, 2020, Superior acquired a Southern California retail propane distribution company, operating under the tradename Western 

Propane	Service	(“Western”),	for	total	consideration	of	US$21.8	million	(C$28.5	million).	The	acquisition	was	funded	by	drawing	on	Superior’s	

credit	facility	and	deferring	US$4.0	million	(C$5.2	million)	in	payments	over	the	next	five	years.	Founded	in	1988,	Western	is	an	established	

independent retail propane distributor serving approximately 6,000 retail and commercial customers in Southern California.

On	January	28,	2020,	Superior	announced	that	it	will	restart	the	Dividend	Reinvestment	and	Optional	Share	Purchase	Plan	(“DRIP”)	

commencing	with	the	anticipated	February	dividend,	which	would	be	payable	on	or	about	March	13,	2020.

100  Superior Plus Corp. Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
Corporate 
Information

Board of Directors

Catherine (Kay) M. Best
Director
Calgary, Alberta

Eugene V.N. Bissell
Director
Gladwyne, Pennsylvania 

Richard C. Bradeen
Director
Montreal West, Québec

Luc Desjardins
President and Chief Executive Officer
Toronto, Ontario

Randall J. Findlay
Director
Calgary, Alberta

Patrick (Pat) E. Gottschalk
Director
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 

Douglas J. Harrison
Director
Burlington, Ontario 

Mary B. Jordan
Director
Vancouver, British Columbia 

David P. Smith
Chairman
Toronto, Ontario

Corporate Officers and Senior 
Management

Ed Bechberger
President, Specialty Chemicals

Brian DeMille
Vice President, Finance and Corporate Controller 

Luc Desjardins
President and Chief Executive Officer 

Rob Dorran
Vice President, Investor Relations and Treasurer 

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
Senior Vice President, Mergers & Acquisitions

Lisa O’Connor
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 2019 Superior Plus Corp.  101

 
Business and  
Shareholder Information

Superior Plus Corp.

Unit 401, 200 Wellington Street West 
Toronto, Ontario  
M5V 3C7

Telephone: 416-345-8050 
Facsimile: 416-340-6030 
Toll Free: 1-866-490-PLUS (7587)

Investor-relations@SuperiorPlus.com 
www.superiorplus.com

Energy Distribution

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 Propane
650	E	Swedesford	Rd. 
Suite 300 
Wayne, Pennsylvania 19087 
Toll Free: 1-855-804-3835

Specialty Chemicals

ERCO Worldwide
302	The	East	Mall 
Suite 200 
Toronto, Ontario M9B 6C7 
Toll Free: 416-239-7111 
Fax: 416-239-0235

Trustee and Transfer Agent
Computershare Trust 
Company 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 Meeting of Shareholders
The Corporation’s Annual Meeting of 
shareholders	will	be	held	at	The	Gallery,	
TMX Broadcast	Centre,	The	Exchange	Tower,	
130	King	Street	West,	Toronto,	Ontario,	
Canada M5X 1J2 on Wednesday, May 13, 
2020	at	4:00	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	2019	and	2018.	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

High

Low

Close

Volume

High

Low

Close

Volume

$ 11.82

$ 13.65

$ 13.70

$ 13.04

$ 13.70

$  9.58

$ 11.02

$ 11.16

$ 11.60

$  9.58

$ 11.45

63,591,877

$ 13.36

55,324,623

$ 12.02

55,916,816

$ 12.56

50,234,690

$ 12.56

225,068,006

$ 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

2019

2018

102  Superior Plus Corp. Business and Shareholder Information

Superior Plus Corp.

401, 200 Wellington Street West, 

Toronto, Ontario M5V 3C7

Tel: 416-345-8050 

Fax: 416-340-6030 

For more information send your enquiries to: 

investor-relations@superiorplus.com

Toll-Free: 1-866-490-PLUS (7587)

superiorplus.com