VALMET | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2020 AND INFORMATION FOR INVESTORS | REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Report of the Board of Directors January–December 2020
Governance
Current legislation, the company’s Articles of Association and the rules and regulations of organizations regulating and supervising the activities of listed companies are complied with in Valmet Oyj and Valmet Group corporate governance. Valmet Oyj complies without deviation with the Finnish Corporate Governance Code for listed companies. The Code is publicly available at www.cgfinland.fi.
Corporate Governance Statement and Remuneration Report
Valmet has published a separate Corporate Governance Statement and a Remuneration Report for 2020, which comply with the recommendations of the Finnish Corporate Governance Code for listed companies. The statements also cover other central areas of corporate governance. The statements have been published on Valmet’s website, separately from the Board of Directors’ Report, at www.valmet.com/governance.
Annual General Meeting
The Annual General Meeting is the company’s highest decision-making body, and its tasks are defined according to the Articles of Association and the Finnish Limited Liability Companies Act. The Annual General Meeting decides on the adoption of the Financial Statements, the distribution of profit, discharging the members of the Board of Directors and the President and CEO from liability, appointing the members, Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Board as well as the auditor, their remunerations, and other matters requiring a decision by the Annual General Meeting according to the Finnish Limited Liability Companies Act that are presented to the Annual General Meeting. The General Meeting convenes at least once a year. The Board of Directors convenes the Annual General Meeting.
The Board of Directors
The Board of Directors shall see to the administration of the company and the appropriate organization of its operations, and ensures that the monitoring of the company’s accounting and asset management is arranged appropriately. The Board of Directors monitors the Group’s activities, finances and risk management, and its task is to promote the interests of shareholders and the Group by ensuring the appropriate organization of the entire Group’s governance and operations.
According to Valmet’s Articles of Association, the Board of Directors shall include at least five (5) members and at most eight (8) members. The term of office of Board members ends at the end of the first Annual General Meeting following the elections. The Annual General Meeting selects the Chairman, Vice-Chairman and other members of the Board.
President and CEO
The Board of Directors selects a President and CEO for the company and decides on the salary and remuneration of the President and CEO as well as other terms related to the position. The Board of Directors monitors the work of the CEO.
The President and CEO is responsible for the company’s daily administration according to the instructions and regulations of the Board of Directors. The President and CEO is responsible for ensuring the legality of the company’s accounting and for the reliable organization of the company’s asset management.
Valmet’s results in 2020
Figures in brackets, unless otherwise stated, refer to the comparison period, i.e. the same period of the previous year.
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VALMET | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2020 AND INFORMATION FOR INVESTORS | REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Key figures1
EUR million | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 |
Orders received | 3,653 | 3,986 | 3,722 |
Order backlog2 | 3,257 | 3,333 | 2,829 |
Net sales | 3,740 | 3,547 | 3,325 |
Comparable earnings before interest, taxes and amortization (Comparable EBITA) | 365 | 316 | 257 |
% of net sales | 9.8% | 8.9% | 7.7% |
Earnings before interest, taxes and amortization (EBITA) | 355 | 315 | 241 |
% of net sales | 9.5% | 8.9% | 7.2% |
Operating profit (EBIT) | 319 | 281 | 211 |
% of net sales | 8.5% | 7.9% | 6.4% |
Profit before taxes | 307 | 269 | 205 |
Profit for the period | 231 | 202 | 152 |
Earnings per share, EUR | 1.54 | 1.35 | 1.01 |
Earnings per share, diluted, EUR | 1.54 | 1.35 | 1.01 |
Equity per share2, EUR | 7.60 | 6.95 | 6.31 |
Dividend per share, EUR | 0.903 | 0.80 | 0.65 |
Cash flow provided by operating activities | 532 | 295 | 284 |
Cash flow after investments | -60 | 58 | 208 |
Return on equity (ROE) | 21% | 20% | 16% |
Return on capital employed (ROCE) before taxes | 22% | 23% | 19% |
Equity to assets ratio2 | 39% | 41% | 43% |
Gearing2 | 13% | -9% | -23% |
Valmet implemented IFRS 16 – Leases as of January 1, 2019 by applying the simplified transition method and therefore 2018 figures are not restated.
1 The calculation of key figures is presented in the section ‘Formulas for calculation of indicators’.
2 At the end of period.
3 Board of Directors’ proposal.
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VALMET | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2020 AND INFORMATION FOR INVESTORS | REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Orders received decreased 8 percent to EUR 3,653 million in 2020
Orders received, EUR million | 2020 | 2019 | Change |
Services | 1,356 | 1,459 | -7% |
Automation | 334 | 359 | -7% |
Pulp and Energy | 934 | 1,125 | -17% |
Paper | 1,029 | 1,043 | -1% |
Total | 3,653 | 3,986 | -8% |
Orders received, comparable foreign exchange rates, EUR million1 | 2020 | 2019 | Change |
Services | 1,395 | 1,459 | -4% |
Automation | 345 | 359 | -4% |
Pulp and Energy | 975 | 1,125 | -13% |
Paper | 1,039 | 1,043 | 0% |
Total | 3,754 | 3,986 | -6% |
1 Indicative only. January to December 2020 orders received in euro calculated by applying January to December 2019 average exchange rates to the functional currency orders received values reported by entities.
Orders received, EUR million | 2020 | 2019 | Change |
North America | 621 | 880 | -29% |
South America | 378 | 670 | -44% |
EMEA | 1,420 | 1,690 | -16% |
China | 885 | 267 | >100% |
Asia-Pacific | 349 | 479 | -27% |
Total | 3,653 | 3,986 | -8% |
Orders received decreased 8 percent to EUR 3,653 million (EUR 3,986 million) in 2020. The Services and Automation business lines together accounted for 46 percent (46%) of Valmet’s orders received. Orders received remained at the previous year's level in the Paper business line, and decreased in the Pulp and Energy, Services, and Automation business lines.
Orders received increased in China and decreased in South America, North America, Asia-Pacific and EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa). Measured by orders received, the top three countries were China, the USA and Finland, which together accounted for 50 percent of orders received. The emerging markets accounted for 49 percent (41%) of orders received.
Changes in foreign exchange rates compared to the exchange rates for the corresponding period in 2019 decreased orders received by approximately EUR 101 million in 2020.
In 2020, Valmet received among others an order for key pulp mill technology and automation to Brazil, typically valued at around EUR 200–250 million, an order for a coated board making line to China, typically valued at around EUR 150–200 million, an order for a fine paper making line to China, typically valued at around EUR 80–100 million, and an order for a biomass-fired boiler plant to Finland with a value of approximately EUR 70 million.
Order backlog amounted to EUR 3.3 billion
As at Dec 31, | |||
Order backlog, EUR million | 2020 | 2019 | Change |
Total | 3,257 | 3,333 | -2% |
Order backlog amounted to EUR 3,257 million at the end of the reporting period, and was at the same level as at the end of 2019. Approximately 25 percent of the order backlog relates to stable business (Services and Automation business lines, approximately 25% at the end of December 2019). Approximately 75 percent of the order backlog is currently expected to be realized as net sales during 2021 (at the end of 2019, approximately 70% was expected to be realized as net sales during 2020).
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VALMET | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2020 AND INFORMATION FOR INVESTORS | REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Net sales amounted to EUR 3,740 million in 2020
Net sales, EUR million | 2020 | 2019 | Change |
Services | 1,327 | 1,374 | -3% |
Automation | 335 | 341 | -2% |
Pulp and Energy | 1,003 | 919 | 9% |
Paper | 1,076 | 913 | 18% |
Total | 3,740 | 3,547 | 5% |
Net sales, comparable foreign exchange rates, EUR million1 | 2020 | 2019 | Change |
Services | 1,357 | 1,374 | -1% |
Automation | 343 | 341 | 1% |
Pulp and Energy | 1,044 | 919 | 14% |
Paper | 1,096 | 913 | 20% |
Total | 3,840 | 3,547 | 8% |
1 Indicative only. January to December 2020 net sales in euro calculated by applying January to December 2019 average exchange rates to the functional currency net sales values reported by entities.
Net sales, EUR million | 2020 | 2019 | Change |
North America | 676 | 774 | -13% |
South America | 595 | 368 | 62% |
EMEA | 1,540 | 1,566 | -2% |
China | 489 | 465 | 5% |
Asia-Pacific | 440 | 375 | 17% |
Total | 3,740 | 3,547 | 5% |
Net sales amounted to EUR 3,740 million (EUR 3,547 million) in 2020. The Services and Automation business lines together accounted for 44 percent (48%) of Valmet’s net sales. Net sales increased in the Paper, and Pulp and Energy business lines, and remained at the previous year's level in the Automation and Services business lines.
Net sales increased in South America, Asia-Pacific and China, remained at the previous year's level in EMEA, and decreased in North America. Measured by net sales, the top three countries were the USA, China and Brazil, which together accounted for 38 percent of net sales. Emerging markets accounted for 46 percent (41%) of net sales.
Changes in foreign exchange rates compared to the exchange rates for the corresponding period in 2019 decreased net sales by approximately EUR 100 million in 2020.
Comparable EBITA and operating profit increased
In 2020, comparable earnings before interest, taxes and amortization (Comparable EBITA) were EUR 365 million, i.e. 9.8 percent of net sales (EUR 316 million and 8.9%). Comparable EBITA increased due to higher net sales and lower SG&A expenses.
Operating profit (EBIT) in 2020 was EUR 319 million, i.e. 8.5 percent of net sales (EUR 281 million and 7.9%). Items affecting comparability amounted to EUR -10 million (EUR -1 million).
Valmet's investment in Neles was not included in Comparable EBITA and it had no material impact on EBIT in 2020.
Net financial income and expenses
Net financial income and expenses in 2020 were EUR -11 million (EUR -11 million).
Profit before taxes and earnings per share increased
Profit before taxes in 2020 was EUR 307 million (EUR 269 million). The profit attributable to owners of the parent was EUR 231 million (EUR 201 million), corresponding to earnings per share (EPS) of EUR 1.54 (EUR 1.35). Valmet's investment in Neles had no material impact on the financial result in 2020.
Return on capital employed (ROCE) and return on equity (ROE)
In 2020, the return on capital employed (ROCE) before taxes was 22 percent (23%) and return on equity (ROE) 21 percent (20%).
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VALMET | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2020 AND INFORMATION FOR INVESTORS | REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Business lines
Services: Orders received EUR 1,356 million in 2020
Services business line | 2020 | 2019 | Change |
Orders received (EUR million) | 1,356 | 1,459 | -7% |
Net sales (EUR million) | 1,327 | 1,374 | -3% |
Personnel (end of period) | 6,027 | 6,461 | -7% |
In 2020, orders received by the Services business line decreased 7 percent to EUR 1,356 million (EUR 1,459 million). Services accounted for 37 percent (37%) of all orders received. Orders received increased in China, remained at the previous year’s level in South America, and decreased in Asia-Pacific, North America and EMEA. Orders received remained at the previous year's level in Performance Parts and decreased in Mill Improvements, Fabrics, Energy and Environmental, and Rolls. Changes in foreign exchange rates compared to the exchange rates for the corresponding period in 2019 decreased orders received by approximately EUR 39 million.
Net sales for the Services business line amounted to EUR 1,327 million (EUR 1,374 million) in 2020, corresponding to 35 percent (39%) of Valmet’s net sales. Changes in foreign exchange rates compared to the exchange rates for the corresponding period in 2019 decreased net sales by approximately EUR 30 million.
COVID-19-related travel restrictions and lower capacity utilization in graphical paper mills had a negative impact on Services' orders received and net sales.
Automation: Orders received EUR 334 million in 2020
Automation business line | 2020 | 2019 | Change |
Orders received (EUR million) | 334 | 359 | -7% |
Net sales (EUR million) | 335 | 341 | -2% |
Personnel (end of period) | 1,917 | 1,908 | 0% |
In 2020, orders received by the Automation business line decreased 7 percent to EUR 334 million (EUR 359 million). Automation accounted for 9 percent (9%) of Valmet’s orders received. Orders received increased in South America and China, and decreased in North America, Asia-Pacific and EMEA. Despite COVID-19, automation services order intake remained at the previous year's level, while capital order intake decreased. Changes in foreign exchange rates compared to the exchange rates for the corresponding period in 2019 decreased orders received by approximately EUR 11 million.
Net sales for the Automation business line amounted to EUR 335 million (EUR 341 million) in 2020, corresponding to 9 percent (10%) of Valmet’s net sales. Changes in foreign exchange rates compared to the exchange rates for the corresponding period in 2019 decreased net sales by approximately EUR 8 million.
Pulp and Energy: Orders received EUR 934 million in 2020
Pulp and Energy | 2020 | 2019 | Change |
Orders received (EUR million) | 934 | 1,125 | -17% |
Net sales (EUR million) | 1,003 | 919 | 9% |
Personnel (end of period) | 1,814 | 1,788 | 1% |
In 2020, orders received by the Pulp and Energy business line decreased 17 percent to EUR 934 million (EUR 1,125 million). Pulp and Energy accounted for 26 percent of all orders received (28%). Orders received increased in China and decreased in all other areas. Orders received decreased in both Pulp and Energy. Changes in foreign exchange rates compared to the exchange rates for the corresponding period in 2019 decreased orders received by approximately EUR 41 million.
Net sales for the Pulp and Energy business line amounted to EUR 1,003 million (EUR 919 million) in 2020, corresponding to 27 percent (26%) of Valmet’s net sales. Changes in foreign exchange rates compared to the exchange rates for the corresponding period in 2019 decreased net sales by approximately EUR 41 million.
The Pulp and Energy business line has managed challenges caused by COVID-19 well, and therefore the pandemic did not cause major impacts on its operations in 2020.
Paper: Orders received EUR 1,029 million in 2020
Paper business line | 2020 | 2019 | Change |
Orders received (EUR million) | 1,029 | 1,043 | -1% |
Net sales (EUR million) | 1,076 | 913 | 18% |
Personnel (end of period) | 3,731 | 2,908 | 28% |
In 2020, orders received by the Paper business line remained at the previous year’s level and amounted to EUR 1,029 million (EUR 1,043 million). Paper accounted for 28 percent (26%) of all orders received. Orders received increased in China and decreased in all other areas. Orders received increased in Tissue and decreased in Board and Paper. Changes in foreign exchange rates compared to the exchange rates for the corresponding period in 2019 decreased orders received by approximately EUR 10 million.
Net sales for the Paper business line amounted to EUR 1,076 million (EUR 913 million) in 2020, corresponding to 29 percent (26%) of Valmet’s net sales. Changes in foreign exchange rates compared to the exchange rates for the corresponding period in 2019 decreased net sales by approximately EUR 20 million.
The acquired PMP Group became a part of the Paper business line and is included in Valmet’s financial reporting from the fourth quarter 2020 onwards.
The Paper business line has managed challenges caused by COVID-19 well, and therefore the pandemic did not cause major impacts on its operations in 2020.
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VALMET | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2020 AND INFORMATION FOR INVESTORS | REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Cash flow and financing
Cash flow provided by operating activities amounted to EUR 532 million (EUR 295 million) in 2020. Net working capital totaled EUR -588 million (EUR -426 million) at the end of the reporting period. Change in net working capital in the statement of cash flows was EUR 160 million (EUR -40 million) in 2020. Payment schedules of large capital projects have a significant impact on net working capital development.
Cash flow after investments totaled EUR -60 million (EUR 58 million) in 2020. The acquisition of PMP Group had a cash flow impact of EUR -48 million. Investments in Neles shares had a cash flow impact of EUR -456 million in 2020. During the comparison period 2019, Valmet completed the acquisitions of GL&V and J&L Fiber Services Inc. with a cash flow impact of EUR -163 million.
At the end of 2020, gearing was 13 percent (-9%) and equity to assets ratio was 39 percent (41%). Interest-bearing liabilities amounted to EUR 497 million (EUR 268 million), and net interest-bearing liabilities totaled EUR 149 million (EUR -90 million) at the end of the reporting period.
The average maturity of Valmet’s non-current debt was 2.3 years, and average interest rate was 1.1 percent at the end of December. Lease liabilities have been excluded from calculation of these two key performance indicators.
Valmet’s liquidity was strong at the end of the reporting period, with cash and cash equivalents amounting to 274 million (EUR 316 million) and interest-bearing current financial assets totaling EUR 73 million (EUR 42 million). The outstanding Nordic Investment Bank loan was repaid and replaced with a new 10-year EUR 50 million loan in January 2020. In April–June, Valmet signed term-loan agreements with a total value of EUR 500 million, of which EUR 279 million was outstanding at the end of the reporting period. In December, Valmet signed an eight-year loan agreement of EUR 100 million with the European Investment Bank, which was undrawn at the end of the reporting period. Valmet’s liquidity was additionally secured by a committed revolving credit facility worth of EUR 200 million, which matures in 2024, and an uncommitted commercial paper program worth of EUR 200 million. Both of these facilities were undrawn at the end of the reporting period.
In compliance with the resolution of the Annual General Meeting 2020, Valmet paid dividends of EUR 120 million, corresponding to EUR 0.80 per share.
Capital expenditure
Gross capital expenditure (excluding business combinations and leased assets) totaled EUR 89 million (EUR 79 million) in 2020, of which maintenance investments were EUR 36 million (EUR 34 million).
Acquisitions and disposals
Acquisitions
On September 11, 2020, Valmet announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire PMP Group in Poland. The acquisition was completed on October 1, 2020. PMP Group supplies process technologies and services for tissue, board and
paper machines globally, focusing on small and medium-sized tissue machines and board and paper machine rebuilds. The enterprise value of the acquisition was approximately EUR 64 million on a cash and debt free basis, and preliminary consideration transferred after ordinary post-closing adjustments was EUR 70 million. The acquisition also includes a conditional and capped earn-out component, with an estimated fair value of EUR 4 million as at acquisition date. The net sales of the company were approximately EUR 70 million in the fiscal year 2019, and PMP employs about 650 people in Poland, China, USA and Italy. PMP is included in Valmet’s financial reporting from the fourth quarter 2020 onwards. The acquired business became a part of Valmet’s Paper business line.
Disposals
Valmet made no disposals in 2020.
Investments in associated companies
Valmet acquired a minority share in Neles Corporation during July–September 2020. As at December 31, 2020 Valmet held 29.5 percent of Neles' shares and voting rights. Neles is a globally leading diversified valve, valve automation and service company with net sales in 2019 amounting to EUR 660 million and an adjusted EBITA margin of 14.6 percent. Valmet partly financed the share acquisition with a new loan facility.
Valmet announced on September 29, 2020 that it had approached the Board of Directors of Neles with a proposal to start discussions on a potential statutory merger between the two companies. On October 12, 2020, Valmet announced that it sustains its goal to merge Valmet and Neles despite Neles' Board of Directors' negative response to Valmet’s proposal, which Neles had announced on the same day.
Research and development
Valmet’s research and development (R&D) expenses in 2020 amounted to EUR 75 million, i.e. 2.0% percent of net sales (EUR 71 million and 2.0%). Research and development work is carried out predominantly in Finland and Sweden, within the business lines’ R&D organizations and pilot facilities. In addition, research and development takes place within a network of customers, suppliers, research institutes and universities. In the end of 2020, R&D employed 457 people (452 people).
Valmet’s R&D work is based on customers’ needs, such as improving production and resource efficiency, maximizing the value of raw materials, providing new revenue streams, and developing new innovations and technologies.
Valmet develops competitive, leading production and automation technologies and services. To enhance raw material, water and energy efficiency in its customers’ production processes, Valmet combines digitalization, process technology, automation and services. Valmet also develops solutions for replacing fossil materials with renewable ones and for producing new high-value end products.
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VALMET | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2020 AND INFORMATION FOR INVESTORS | REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Number of personnel
As at Dec 31, | |||
Personnel by business line | 2020 | 2019 | Change |
Services | 6,027 | 6,461 | -7% |
Automation | 1,917 | 1,908 | 0% |
Pulp and Energy | 1,814 | 1,788 | 1% |
Paper | 3,731 | 2,908 | 28% |
Other | 557 | 533 | 5% |
Total | 14,046 | 13,598 | 3% |
As at Dec 31, | |||
Personnel by area | 2020 | 2019 | Change |
North America | 1,542 | 1,700 | -9% |
South America | 542 | 548 | -1% |
EMEA | 9,202 | 8,654 | 6% |
China | 1,872 | 1,797 | 4% |
Asia-Pacific | 888 | 899 | -1% |
Total | 14,046 | 13,598 | 3% |
During 2020, Valmet employed an average of 13,615 (13,235) people. The number of personnel at the end of December was 14,046 (13,598). Personnel expenses totaled EUR 891 million (EUR 897 million) in 2020, of which wages, salaries and remuneration amounted to EUR 713 million (EUR 708 million).
Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on Valmet
The COVID-19 pandemic impacted Valmet’s operations during 2020. Travel restrictions and lower capacity utilization in graphical paper mills had a negative impact on orders received
and net sales of the Services business line. Many customers restricted access to their sites, which led to disturbances especially in field services and mill improvement projects. Also the Automation business line was impacted by access restrictions to some customer sites.
The Pulp and Energy, and Paper business lines have managed challenges caused by COVID-19 well, and therefore COVID-19 did not cause major impacts on the capital business. The organization has performed well under the new circumstances and found new ways to operate, which can be utilized to improve Valmet's processes also after the pandemic. For example, the increased use of Industrial Internet and remote connections resulted in lower travel expenses in 2020.
On April 21, 2020, Valmet announced that due to financial and production related reasons, especially because of the decreasing workload and in order to prepare for the potential widening of the business impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, the company was to start co-determination negotiations on April 21, 2020, for temporary lay-offs. The employees under negotiations were the Services business line employees in Finland and EMEA area organization in Finland. At the time of the announcement, it was estimated that the need for lay-offs concerns around 200 employees.
On April 24, 2020, Valmet announced that the co-determination negotiations had been completed, and as a result 72 employees in the Services business line in Finland and 105 employees in the EMEA area organization in Finland were to be temporarily laid-off due to low workload. The lay-offs concerned all employee groups. The lay-offs were implemented until the end of October and the scope and length of a lay-off varied up to 90 days at maximum.
On November 24, 2020, Valmet announced that due to financial and production related reasons, especially because of the decreasing workload, the company starts co-determination negotiations for temporary lay-offs in Finland on November 24, 2020. The employees under negotiations are Services business line’s employees in Finland and the employees of the EMEA area organization in Finland. The lay-offs are going to be temporary and they are estimated to last up to 90 days at maximum. At the time of the announcement, it was estimated that the need for temporary lay-offs concerns around 360 employees.
On December 2, 2020, Valmet announced that the co-determination negotiations have been completed, and as a result at this stage altogether 372 employees, 227 in the Services business line and 145 employees in the EMEA area organization in Finland will be temporarily laid-off due to low workload. The lay-offs concern all employee groups. The lay-offs can be implemented until the end of April, 2021, and the scope and length of a lay-off can vary up to 90 days at maximum per person.
Changes in Valmet’s Executive team
Valmet announced on November 19, 2020, that Mr. Jukka Tiitinen (M.Sc., Engineering) has been appointed Area President of Valmet’s North America Area as of April 1, 2021. Jukka Tiitinen is currently employed at Valmet as Area President, Asia Pacific. He will continue as a member of Valmet’s Executive
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VALMET | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2020 AND INFORMATION FOR INVESTORS | REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Team reporting to President and CEO Pasi Laine. Mr. David King, the current Area President, North America, has decided to retire after a long, successful career at Valmet as of March 31, 2021.
Structural changes
Valmet announced on January 21, 2020, that it is planning changes in the Fabrics Business Unit, which is part of the Services Business Line, in order to secure the unit’s profitability and future competitiveness. The most important action in the preliminary plan was to move the dryer fabric and wide filter fabric production from Tampere in Finland to Valmet’s unit in Portugal. Valmet started co-determination negotiations in Fabrics’ operations in Tampere on January 21, 2020.
Valmet announced on March 17, 2020, that the co-determination negotiations have been completed. Valmet will relocate the dryer fabric and wide filter fabric production from Finland to Portugal. As a consequence of the relocation and re-organizing of the work, the need for workforce reduction in Tampere will be 78 persons mainly during 2021. For those affected by the reductions, Valmet will provide support measures like support for studies and re-employment.
Valmet announced on May 26, 2020, that it continues measures to improve the long-term competitiveness of its stable business especially related to Mill Improvements and Rolls and Workshop Services business mainly in EMEA. The aim is to improve the profitability and competitiveness of the respective businesses by optimizing the local presence globally and streamlining the way to operate. The measures may include permanent lay-offs and the restructuring of selected operations. In total the estimated amount of headcount reductions is up to 200 positions. Valmet’s stable business employs altogether approximately 8,300 persons globally.
Strategic goals and their implementation
Valmet is the leading global developer and supplier of technologies, automation and services for the pulp, paper and energy industries. Valmet focuses on delivering technology and services globally to industries that use bio-based raw materials. Valmet's main customer industries are pulp, paper and energy. These are all major global industries that offer growth potential for the future. Valmet is committed to moving its customers' performance forward.
Valmet’s vision is to become the global champion in serving its customers, and its mission is to convert renewable resources into sustainable results. Valmet seeks to achieve its strategic targets by pursuing the following Must-Win initiatives: ‘customer excellence’, ‘leader in technology and innovation’, ‘excellence in processes’ and ‘winning team’.
Valmet’s product and service portfolio consists of productivity-enhancing services, automation solutions, plant upgrades and rebuilds, new cost-efficient equipment and solutions for optimizing energy and raw material usage, and technologies increasing the value of our customers' end products.
In order to improve operational excellence, Valmet is in the process of renewing its ERP system. The aim is to improve Valmet’s operational capability through process harmonization
and standardization, and through renewal and modernization of the ERP platform.
Valmet has an annual strategy process, where, among others, Valmet’s strategy, Must-Wins and financial targets are reviewed.
On February 5, 2020, Valmet announced the Board of Directors’ decision to raise Valmet’s financial targets for Comparable EBITA margin and return on capital employed. Valmet’s new target for Comparable EBITA margin is 10–12 percent (previously 8–10%). The new target for Comparable return on capital employed (ROCE) before taxes is at least 20 percent (previously 15–20%). Valmet’s other financial targets remained unchanged.
Valmet's financial targets are the following:
Financial targets |
•Net sales for stable business to grow over two times the market growth |
•Net sales for capital business to exceed market growth |
•Comparable EBITA: 10–12% |
•Comparable return on capital employed (pre-tax), ROCE: at least 20% |
•Dividend payout at least 50% of net profit |
Continued focus on improving profitability
Valmet continues to focus on improving profitability through various actions in e.g. sales process management, project management and project execution, in procurement and quality, as well as in technology and R&D.
To improve sales process management, Valmet is focusing on key account management and analyzing the customers’ share of wallet. Valmet is targeting market share improvement at key customers and adding focus on sales training. Valmet has also launched ‘Valmet's Way to Serve’ services concept – a shift towards more unified and customer-oriented services.
Valmet is continuously improving its project management and project execution by training personnel and implementing a Valmet-wide project execution model. By focusing on improving project management and execution, Valmet is targeting continuous improvement of gross profit.
Valmet has set a long-term savings target for procurement. In order to decrease procurement costs, Valmet is focusing on design-to-cost and adding supplier involvement through supplier relationship management. Valmet has also set a target for quality cost savings and is adding focus on root cause analysis of quality deviations. Furthermore, Valmet is continuing to adopt the Lean principles and methodology.
Valmet is constantly focusing on new technologies and R&D to improve product cost competitiveness and performance. The renewal of Valmet’s ERP system will increase efficiency once implemented.
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VALMET | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2020 AND INFORMATION FOR INVESTORS | REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Disclosure of non-financial information
Valmet reports its non-financial information according to Finnish Accounting Act, based on the non-financial reporting directive (NFRD). In addition, Valmet has aligned its climate-related financial risks and opportunities reporting with the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations.
Business model and value creation
Valmet’s mission is to convert renewable resources into sustainable results. Sustainability, including climate-related matters, is at the core of all Valmet’s operations. Valmet has an active and open dialogue with its stakeholders. Valmet’s product and service portfolio consists of technologies that increase the value of its customers’ end products. Valmet works closely with its customers throughout its key processes – from product development to the commercialization of new solutions. Valmet has the financial strength to invest in innovations and growth.
Valmet is mitigating the impacts of climate change, adapting to global warming, and driving the transition of the pulp and paper industry towards a low-carbon economy by enabling energy and resource-efficient low-carbon pulp, paper and energy production. The successful management of climate-related risks and opportunities is a key element in the delivery of our strategy.
In addition to value for its owners, Valmet creates economic value as an employer and taxpayer. Valmet provides employment and business opportunities to a wide range of stakeholders and indirectly builds wealth in local societies.
Valmet’s technology and services enable customers to produce their products with fewer resources, less emissions and fewer raw materials, and to improve flexibility in fuel source selection to replace fossil fuels with renewable ones. In Valmet’s own operations, more efficient processes and energy efficiency improvements enable the use of fewer natural resources and lower CO2 emissions.
Valmet strives to develop the transparency and traceability of its entire value chain, from the sourcing of raw materials to the recycling of its products. Valmet mainly purchases raw materials, components, energy and services.
Valmet has estimated that around 4 percent of its environmental impact arises from its supply chain, and around 1 percent from its own operations. The remaining 95 percent is caused when customers use Valmet’s technologies over their entire life cycles.
Materiality assessment
Valmet has assessed the most significant topics of the non-financial disclosure by conducting an internal stakeholder review. All topics have been assessed based on their importance to Valmet and its stakeholders with key experts and management. Valmet has defined five sustainability focus areas, covering the most material sustainability topics for Valmet: a sustainable supply chain; health, safety and environment; people and performance; sustainable solutions and corporate citizenship.
Valmet has a systematic company-wide risk management process for regularly assessing the probability and impact of
risks and opportunities, in which sustainability, including climate-related matters are integrated. Valmet has several group-wide policies in place to mitigate these risks.
The basis of Valmet’s operations is its Code of Conduct, which creates a uniform and ethical foundation for all our business transactions and work assignments. Valmet strives for globally consistent and transparent management practices to ensure all its stakeholders can reliably assess the company’s sustainable operations and development.
Valmet’s sustainability agenda, related goals, and all supporting policies are owned, driven and monitored by Valmet’s Executive Team. Sustainability performance is reviewed annually by the Executive Team. All Valmet’s operations are responsible for ensuring that group-wide initiatives are implemented to meet Valmet’s sustainability goals. Valmet ties selected sustainability topics, such as health, safety and quality, as well as sustainable supply chain KPIs, to remuneration.
Material topics
Environmental and climate-related matters
Valmet has defined targets for the reduction of energy and water consumption, as well as CO2 emissions and waste by 2030. Valmet provides its customers with more sustainable solutions that help to improve environmental performance and safety. Valmet continuously improves the environmental efficiency in all production facilities, and the resource and energy efficiency of its own technologies and solutions, based on global and operation-specific HSE and R&D action plans.
Social and employment-related matters
Valmet’s operations provide direct and indirect employment for a wide range of stakeholders. Valmet continuously improves employee skills and capabilities, striving to ensure a healthy and safe working environment for both its own people and partners. Valmet participates in discussions regarding its operating environment and regulations. Valmet builds trust and reputation by operating in a sustainable and profitable manner.
Respect for human rights
As a global technology and services supplier, Valmet operates in a highly multicultural environment. Valmet recognizes its responsibility to respect human rights and requires its business partners to do the same. Valmet is committed to international frameworks related to human rights, such as the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. Valmet recognizes the business benefits of having a diverse workforce and aims to provide equal opportunities for everyone.
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VALMET | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2020 AND INFORMATION FOR INVESTORS | REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Anti-corruption and bribery
Valmet has several policies in place which guide its and its partners’ operations regarding corruption, bribery and competition compliance. Valmet arranges regular training on its Code of Conduct, anti-corruption principles and competition compliance guidelines to enforce the principles set by the policies. All Valmet’s suppliers are required to commit to the principles set by the Sustainable Supply Chain Policy, by which compliance is assessed through potential self-assessments and audits.
Non-financial indicators
Number of environmental compliance cases
No significant environmental incidents resulted from major permit violations, claims, compensations or media coverage related to environmental incidents in 2020.
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VALMET | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2020 AND INFORMATION FOR INVESTORS | REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Breakdown of employees by contract type, employment type, region and gender
Number of employees by employment contract and gender | ||||||
Female | Male | Total | ||||
2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
Permanent | 2,523 | 2,387 | 10,229 | 9,944 | 12,752 | 12,331 |
Temporary | 385 | 394 | 909 | 873 | 1,294 | 1,267 |
Total | 2,908 | 2,781 | 11,138 | 10,817 | 14,046 | 13,598 |
Number of permanent employees by employment type and gender | ||||||
Female | Male | Total | ||||
2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
Full-time | 2,424 | 2,278 | 10,114 | 9,837 | 12,538 | 12,115 |
Part-time | 99 | 109 | 115 | 107 | 214 | 216 |
Total | 2,523 | 2,387 | 10,229 | 9,944 | 12,752 | 12,331 |
Workforce by region and gender | ||||||
Female | Male | Total | ||||
2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
North America | 228 | 233 | 1,314 | 1,467 | 1,542 | 1,700 |
South America | 100 | 103 | 442 | 445 | 542 | 548 |
EMEA | 2,040 | 1,919 | 7,162 | 6,735 | 9,202 | 8,654 |
China | 436 | 418 | 1,436 | 1,379 | 1,872 | 1,797 |
Asia-Pacific | 104 | 108 | 784 | 791 | 888 | 899 |
Total | 2,908 | 2,781 | 11,138 | 10,817 | 14,046 | 13,598 |
Workforce by region and employee contract | |||
Regular 2020 | Fixed term 2020 | Total 2020 | |
North America | 1,541 | 1 | 1,542 |
South America | 533 | 9 | 542 |
EMEA | 8,581 | 621 | 9,202 |
China | 1,220 | 652 | 1,872 |
Asia-Pacific | 877 | 11 | 888 |
Total | 12,752 | 1,294 | 14,046 |
Lost time incident frequency, total recordable incident frequency, number of fatalities and absentee rate, own personnel | ||
2020 | 2019 | |
LTIF1 | 1.5 | 2.1 |
TRIF2 | 3.1 | 4.3 |
Fatalities | 1 | 0 |
Absentee rate | 2.5% | 2.6% |
1 LTIF reflects the number of injuries resulting in an absence of at least one workday per million hours worked.
2 LTIF + medical treatment and restricted work cases.
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VALMET | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2020 AND INFORMATION FOR INVESTORS | REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Valmet’s management approach for non-financial impacts
ENVIRONMENTAL AND CLIMATE-RELATED MATTERS | SOCIAL AND EMPLOYMENT-RELATED MATTERS | ||
Policies and standards | International frameworks covering all topics: | •United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights •UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights •UN Sustainable Development Goals •UN Global Compact | |
•Health, Safety and Environment Policy: Defines Valmet’s approach and demonstrates commitment to managing health, safety and environmental issues at Valmet •Sustainable Supply Chain Policy: Describes Valmet’s requirements for sustainable operating principles for suppliers concerning environmental and climate-related issues •Instructions on environmental principles: Support the implementation of Valmet’s HSE policy •Instructions on sustainable and responsible research, product development and design: Support the implementation of Valmet’s HSE policy •Valmet's Code of Conduct: States Valmet’s commitment and approach, e.g. to offering customers more sustainable solutions | •Valmet’s Human Rights Statement: States Valmet’s commitment to and respect for human rights •Health, Safety and Environment Policy: Defines Valmet’s approach and demonstrates commitment to managing health, safety and environmental issues at Valmet •Sustainable Supply Chain Policy: Describes requirements for ethical standards and sustainable business practices for suppliers •Human Resources Policy: Framework for the management of the human resources function, which is committed to developing an engaged and performance-driven community and to continuously driving the global development of Valmet employees’ capabilities •Minimum Safety Standards: Defines minimum requirements for safety at work for specific high-risk activities | ||
Due diligence processes | •The HSE incident reporting and management system is used to follow and prevent HSE-related incidents and hazards •Compliance with HSE-related laws and regulations is ensured by complying with Valmet’s related processes •Valmet executes internal and external audits globally to evaluate compliance with internal, legal and other HSE requirements and correct non-conformities | •The HSE incident reporting and management system is used to monitor and prevent HSE-related incidents and hazards •Compliance with laws and regulations is ensured by complying with Valmet’s related processes •Valmet executes internal and external audits globally to evaluate compliance with internal, legal and other HSE requirements and correct non-conformities | |
Risks and risk management | Risks: •Risks related to Valmet’s suppliers can cause significant reputational or business risks •Non-compliance with environmental regulation may result in fines, creating reputational and business risks •Stricter climate-related regulation and initiatives may change the availability and use of biomass, and increase the cost of raw materials and energy, result in new taxes and tariffs, and change our stakeholder’s attitudes, which could impact Valmet’s and its customers’ operations and business environments •Climate-related physical risks; extreme weather events and variability in weather patterns, water shortage and scarcity of raw materials may cause production interruptions throughout the Valmet value chain Risk management: •ISO 14001 environmental management systems in all operations •Risk management of environmental and climate-related matters is integrated in all activities, to ensure proactive risk identification and mitigation | Risks: •Valmet’s own personnel’s and partners’ health and safety risks are connected to work-related illnesses, injuries and occupational well-being •Varying competence levels and a slowing down of the resourcing process •Risks related to Valmet’s suppliers can cause significant reputational or business risks Risk management: •OHSAS 18001 health and safety management systems in all operations •HSE incident management system •Development of global training portfolio and ensuring necessary competence is in place across regions •Global process for supplier sustainability •Safety committees covering all personnel | |
Outcomes of policies and due diligence processes | •New products and services that meet environmental requirements and help customers produce sustainable products, which require less water, energy, and raw materials, enable the use of renewable resources, and produce less waste and emissions. •Supplier audits conducted globally improving suppliers’ sustainability approach •Environmental targets 2030 including targets for energy efficiency, water consumption and waste management | •Healthy and safe working places for our own employees and partners •Operations free from life-changing incidents, reduction in overall incident frequencies •Development of training programs to enhance skills |
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VALMET | FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2020 AND INFORMATION FOR INVESTORS | REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
RESPECT FOR HUMAN RIGHTS | ANTI-CORRUPTION AND BRIBERY | |
•Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work of the International Labour Organization (ILO) •OECD’s Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises •OHSAS 18001 Occupational health and safety management system •ISO 14001 Environmental management system •ISO 9001 Quality management system | ||
•Valmet’s Human Rights Statement and Code of Conduct: States Valmet’s commitment and respect to human rights •Sustainable Supply Chain Policy: Describes Valmet’s human rights requirements for our suppliers •Equal Opportunity and Diversity Policy: Defines Valmet’s approach to promoting equal opportunities for all employees | •Anti-Corruption Policy and Code of Conduct: Defines Valmet’s zero tolerance approach to bribery and corruption in more detail •Compliance reporting guideline: Defines how Valmet employees can voice their concerns about potential violations of the Code of Conduct, Anti-Corruption Policy and other corporate policies •Approval guideline for Agency agreements: Describes Valmet’s due diligence process and requirements (including anti-bribery questionnaire) for agent approval •Sustainable Supply Chain Policy: Describes Valmet’s requirements for suppliers (including business ethics and legal compliance principles) | |
•The human rights due diligence framework is in place and executed through long-term monitored and reported action plans, and it is based on UN Guiding Principles for Business and Human Rights. | •Risk management evaluation and audits help Valmet find the best ways to manage risks and train the unit’s personnel to use existing tools and procedures to manage risk | |
Risks: •Potential violations of human and labor rights and unethical business practices can impact Valmet’s reputation and thus financial position Risk management: •Valmet’s comprehensive human rights due diligence framework helps to identify and mitigate potential negative human rights impacts and risks | Risks: •Unethical business practices can impact Valmet’s reputation and thus financial position Risk management: •Internal risk management audits and global process for supplier sustainability •Valmet's Anti-Corruption Policy works as a tool to set the tone for preventive misconduct and mitigate potential risks | |
•Reporting system in place for violations of Code of Conduct •Human rights training to increase awareness of potential negative impacts, including face-to-face training and e-learning course •Human rights impact assessment carried out and improvement actions completed in three locations, in accordance with Valmet’s human rights due diligence framework | •Valmet executes supplier sustainability audits globally •Business ethics are an integrated part of Valmet’s audit checklist •Reporting system in place for violations of Code of Conduct, including anti-corruption and bribery •Anti-corruption and bribery training, including e-learning course |
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