SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 20-F

 

(Mark one) 
¨ REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
OR
x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 20132015
OR
¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
OR
¨ 

SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Date of event requiring this shell company report

For the transition period from                to                

Commission file number 001-04546

UNILEVER PLC

 

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

ENGLAND

 

(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

Unilever House, Blackfriars,100 Victoria Embankment, London, England

 

(Address of principal executive offices)

T. E. Lovell, Group Secretary

Tel: +44(0)2078225252, Fax: +44(0)2078225464

Unilever House, 100 Victoria Embankment, London EC4Y 0DY, UK

(Name, telephone number, facsimile number and address of Company Contact)

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class

  

Name of each exchange on which registered

American Shares (evidenced by Depositary Receipts) each representing one ordinary share of the nominal amount of 3 1/9p each  New York Stock Exchange

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:None

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:None

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.

The total number of outstanding shares of the issuer’s capital stock at the close of the period covered by the annual report was:1,310,156,361 ordinary shares

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act:

Yesx      No¨

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934:

Yes¨      Nox

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yesx      No¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes¨      No¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large Accelerated filer x      Accelerated filer ¨      Non-accelerated filer ¨

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

 

U.S. GAAP¨  International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Boardx  Other¨

If ‘Other’ has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow. Item 17¨     Item 18¨

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act):

Yes¨      Nox


CAUTIONARY STATEMENT

This document may contain forward-looking statements, including ‘forward-looking statements’ within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as ‘will’, ‘aim’, ‘expects’, ‘anticipates’, ‘intends’, ‘looks’, ‘believes’, ‘vision’, or the negative of these terms and other similar expressions of future performance or results, and their negatives, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon current expectations and assumptions regarding anticipated developments and other factors affecting the Group.Unilever Group (the “Group”). They are not historical facts, nor are they guarantees of future performance.

Because these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, there are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Among other risks and uncertainties, the material or principal factors which could cause actual results to differ materially are: Unilever’s global brands not meeting consumer preferences; Unilever’s ability to innovate and remain competitive; Unilever’s investment choices in its portfolio management; inability to find sustainable solutions to support long-term growth; customer relationships; the recruitment and retention of talented employees; disruptions in our supply chain; the cost of raw materials and commodities; the production of safe and high quality products; secure and reliable IT infrastructure; successful execution of acquisitions, divestitures and business transformation projects; economic and political risks and natural disasters; financial risks; failure to meet high and ethical standards; and managing regulatory, tax and legal matters. Further details of potential risks and uncertainties affecting the Group are described in the Group’s filings with the London Stock Exchange, Euronext Amsterdam and the US Securities and Exchange Commission, including in the Group’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2013 and the Annual Report and Accounts 2013.

These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this document. Except as required by any applicable law or regulation, the Group expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Group’s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

Further details of potential risks and uncertainties affecting the Group are described in the Group’s filings with the London Stock Exchange, Euronext Amsterdam and the US Securities and Exchange Commission, including in the Group’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2015 and the Annual Report and Accounts 2015.


LOGO


LOGO

ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 20-F 2013             CONTENTS

UNILEVER N.V. AND UNILEVER PLC

MAKING SUSTAINABLE

LIVING COMMONPLACE

  

LOGO


CONTENTS

Item 1 Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers   1  
Item 2 Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable   1  
Item 3 Key Information   2  
Item 4 Information on the Company   86  
Item 4A Unresolved Staff Comments   86  
Item 5 Operating and Financial Review and Prospects   97  
Item 6 Directors, Senior Management and Employees   1311  
Item 7 Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions   1413  
Item 8 Financial Information   14  
Item 9 The Offer and Listing14
Item 10Additional Information   15  
Item 10Additional Information16
Item 11 Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk   18  
Item 12 Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities   18  
Item 13 Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies   19  
Item 14 Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds   2019  
Item 15 Controls and Procedures19
Item 16Reserved19
Item 16AAudit Committee Financial Expert   20  
Item 1616B ReservedCode Of Ethics   20  
Item 16CPrincipal Accountant Fees and Services20
Item 16DExemptions From The Listing Standards For Audit Committees20
Item 16EPurchases Of Equity Securities By The Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers20
Item 16FChange In Registrant’s Certifying Accountant21
Item 16GCorporate Governance21
Item 16HMine Safety Disclosures21
Item 17 Financial Statements   21  
Item 18 Financial Statements   22  
Item 19 Exhibits   28  


References in this Report on Form 20-F are to certain references in the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 of the Group (as defined below) that include pages incorporated therein, including any page references incorporated in the incorporated material, unless specifically noted otherwise.

The Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2015 was furnished separately on 23 February 2016 under Form 6-K. Pages 1 to 44 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2015 were furnished as Exhibit 1 and pages 45 to 160 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2015 were furnished as Exhibit 2 to this report on Form 6-K, respectively.

The following pages and sections of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 and specified information referenced therein, regardless of their inclusion in any cross-reference below, are hereby specifically excluded and are not incorporated by reference into this report on

Form 20-F:

‘Operational highlights’ on page 2;
pages 4 to 7;9;
Five-yearSeven-year historical Total Shareholder Return (TSR) Performance’ on page 82;81;
pages 8685 to 89;
pages 136148 to 145;159; and
information on our website or any other website or social media site, including our Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn pages.

This report on Form 20-F and the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2013 (furnished separately on 7 March 2014 under Form 6-K)2015 contain certain measures that are not defined by generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) such as IFRS. We believe this information, along with comparable GAAP measurements, is useful to investors because it provides a basis for measuring our operating performance, ability to retire debt and invest in new business opportunities. Our management uses these financial measures, along with the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures, in evaluating our operating performance and value creation. Non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered in isolation from, or as a substitute for, financial information presented in compliance with GAAP. Non-GAAP financial measures as reported by us may not be comparable with similarly titled amounts reported by other companies. In addition, there are limitations on the usefulness of our reported non-GAAP financial measures.

We report on the following non-GAAP measures:

underlying sales growth;
underlying volume growth;
core operating profit and core operating margin (including acquisition(operating profit and operating margin before the impact of business disposals, acquisitions and disposal related costs, gain/(loss) on disposal of group companies, impairments and other one-off costs (non-core items));
core earnings per share (core EPS);
free cash flow; and
net debt.

The information set forth under the heading ‘Non-GAAP measures’ on pages 32 to 3338 and 39 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference. Within these pages further information about the above measures can be found.

THE UNILEVER GROUP

Unilever N.V. (NV) is a public limited company registered in the Netherlands, which has listings ofordinary shares, and depositary receipts for such shares, 7% cumulative preference shares, listed depositary receipts for such shares and 6% cumulative preference shares listed on Euronext Amsterdam and of New York Registry Shares on the New York Stock Exchange. NV was incorporated under the name Naamlooze Vennootschap Margarine Unie in the Netherlands in 1927. Unilever PLC (PLC) is a public limited company registered in England and Wales, which has shares listed on the London Stock Exchange and, as American Depositary Receipts, on the New York Stock Exchange. PLC was incorporated under the name Lever Brothers Limited in England and Wales in 1894.

The two parent companies, NV and PLC, together with their group companies operatehave, since the Unilever Group was formed in 1930, operated as nearly as practicable as a single economic entity (the Unilever Group, also referred to as ‘Unilever’ or ‘the Group’the ‘Group’). NV and PLC and their group companies constitute a single reporting entity for the purposes of presenting consolidated accounts. Accordingly, the accounts of the Unilever Group are presented by both NV and PLC as their respective consolidated accounts.

This document contains references to our website. Information on our website or any other website referenced in this document is not incorporated into this document and should not be considered part of this document. We have included any website as an inactive textual reference only.

ITEM 1. IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS,

SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS

Not applicable.

ITEM 2. OFFER STATISTICS AND

EXPECTED TIMETABLE

Not applicable.

 

 

UnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 20132015 Form 20-F                1


ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION

A. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The schedules below provide the Group’s selected financial data for the five most recent financial years.

 

    million    million   million   million   million 
Consolidated income statement   2013     

 

2012

(Restated)

  

(a) 

  

 

2011

(Restated)

  

(a) 

  

 

2010

(Restated)

  

(a) 

  

 

2009

(Restated)

  

(a) 

Turnover

   49,797     51,324    46,467    44,262    39,823  

Operating profit

   7,517     6,977    6,420    6,325    5,006  

Net finance costs

   (530   (535  (543  (561  (596

Share of net profit/(loss) of joint ventures and associates and other income/(loss) from non-current investments

   127     91    189    187    489  

Profit before taxation

   7,114     6,533    6,066    5,951    4,899  

Taxation

   (1,851   (1,697  (1,575  (1,486  (1,253

Net profit

   5,263     4,836    4,491    4,465    3,646  

Attributable to:

       

Non-controlling interests

   421     468    371    354    289  

Shareholders’ equity

   4,842     4,368    4,120    4,111    3,357  
Combined earnings per share(b)  

2013

   

2012

  

2011

  

2010

  

2009

 

Basic earnings per share

   1.71     1.54    1.46    1.46    1.20  

Diluted earnings per share

   1.66     1.50    1.42    1.42    1.16  

(a)  For an explanation of the restatement see note 1 ‘Accounting information and policies – Recent accounting developments – Adopted by the Group’ on page 95 of the

     Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2013 furnished separately on 7 March 2014 under Form 6-K and incorporated here by reference.

(b)  For the basis of the calculations of combined earnings per share see note 7 ‘Combined earnings per share’ on page 108 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts

     2013 furnished separately on 7 March 2014 under Form 6-K and incorporated here by reference.

     

       

     

       

    million    million   million   million   million 
   2013   2012  2011  2010  2009 
Consolidated balance sheet       (Restated)  (Restated)  (Restated)  (Restated) 

Non-current assets

   33,391     34,042    33,245    28,706    26,224  

Current assets

   12,122     12,147    14,291    12,484    10,811  

Total assets

   45,513     46,189    47,536    41,190    37,035  

Current liabilities

   17,382     15,815    17,929    13,606    11,599  

Non-current liabilities

   13,316     14,425    14,489    12,322    12,728  

Total liabilities

   30,698     30,240    32,418    25,928    24,327  

Shareholders’ equity

   14,344     15,392    14,491    14,669    12,237  

Non-controlling interests

   471     557    628    593    471  

Total equity

   14,815     15,949    15,119    15,262    12,708  

Total liabilities and equity

   45,513     46,189    47,537    41,190    37,035  
    million    million   million   million   million 
Consolidated cash flow statement  2013   2012  2011  2010  2009 

Net cash flow from operating activities

   6,294     6,836    5,452    5,490    5,774  

Net cash flow from/(used in) investing activities

   (1,161   (755  (4,467  (1,164  (1,263

Net cash flow from/(used in) financing activities

   (5,390   (6,622  411    (4,609  (4,301

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

   (257   (541  1,396    (283  210  

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year

   2,217     2,978    1,966    2,397    2,360  

Effect of foreign exchange rates

   84     (220  (384  (148  (173

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year

   2,044     2,217    2,978    1,966    2,397  
       2012  2011  2010  2009 
Key performance indicators  2013   (Restated)  (Restated)  (Restated)  (Restated) 

Underlying sales growth (%)(c)

   4.3     6.9    6.5    4.1    3.5  

Underlying volume growth (%)(c)

   2.5     3.4    1.6    5.8    2.3  

Core operating margin (%)(c)

   14.1     13.7    13.5    13.6    12.5  

Free cash flow ( million)(c)

   3,856     4,333    3,075    3,365    4,072  

                                                                                                    
    million   million   million   million   million 
Consolidated income statement  2015  2014  2013  2012  2011 

Turnover

   53,272    48,436    49,797    51,324    46,467  

Operating profit

   7,515    7,980    7,517    6,977    6,420  

Net finance costs

   (493  (477  (530  (535  (543

Share of net profit/(loss) of joint ventures and associates and other income/(loss) from non-current investments

   198    143    127    91    189  

Profit before taxation

   7,220    7,646    7,114    6,533    6,066  

Taxation

   (1,961  (2,131  (1,851  (1,697  (1,575

Net profit

   5,259    5,515    5,263    4,836    4,491  

Attributable to:

      

Non-controlling interests

   350    344    421    468    371  

Shareholders’ equity

   4,909    5,171    4,842    4,368    4,120  
Combined earnings per share(a)  

2015

  

2014

  

2013

  

2012

  

2011

 

Basic earnings per share

   1.73    1.82    1.71    1.54    1.46  

Diluted earnings per share

   1.72    1.79    1.66    1.50    1.42  

 

(a)For the basis of the calculations of combined earnings per share see Note 7 ‘Combined earnings per share’ on page 108 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2015 furnished separately on 23 February 2016 under Form 6-K and incorporated here by reference.

                                                                                                    
Consolidated balance sheet   million
2015
   million
2014
   million
2013
   million
2012
   million
2011
 

Non-current assets

   39,612    35,680    33,391    34,042    33,245  

Current assets

   12,686    12,347    12,122    12,147    14,291  

Total assets

   52,298    48,027    45,513    46,189    47,536  

Current liabilities

   20,019    19,642    17,382    15,815    17,929  

Non-current liabilities

   16,197    14,122    13,316    14,425    14,489  

Total liabilities

   36,216    33,764    30,698    30,240    32,418  

Shareholders’ equity

   15,439    13,651    14,344    15,392    14,491  

Non-controlling interests

   643    612    471    557    628  
     

Total equity

   16,082    14,263    14,815    15,949    15,119  

Total liabilities and equity

   52,298    48,027    45,513    46,189    47,537  
Consolidated cash flow statement   million
2015
   million
2014
   million
2013
   million
2012
   million
2011
 

Net cash flow from operating activities

   7,330    5,543    6,294    6,836    5,452  

Net cash flow from/(used in) investing activities

   (3,539  (341  (1,161  (755  (4,467

Net cash flow from/(used in) financing activities

   (3,032  (5,190  (5,390  (6,622  411  

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

   759    12    (257  (541  1,396  

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year

   1,910    2,044    2,217    2,978    1,966  

Effect of foreign exchange rates

   (541  (146  84    (220  (384

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year

   2,128    1,910    2,044    2,217    2,978  
Key performance indicators  2015  2014  2013  2012  2011 

Underlying sales growth (%)(b)

   4.1    2.9    4.3    6.9    6.5  

Underlying volume growth (%)(b)

   2.1    1.0    2.5    3.4    1.6  

Core operating margin (%)(b)

   14.8    14.5    14.1    13.7    13.5  

Free cash flow ( million)(b)

   4,796    3,100    3,856    4,333    3,075  

 

2                Form 20-F UnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 20132015


ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATIONCONTINUED

 

   2013   2012   2011   2010   2009 
Ratios and other metrics       (Restated)   (Restated)   (Restated)   (Restated) 

Operating margin (%)

   15.1     13.6     13.8     14.3     12.6  

Net profit margin (%)(d)

   9.7     8.5     8.9     9.3     8.4  

Net debt ( million)(c)

   8,456     7,355     8,781     6,668     6,357  

Ratio of earnings to fixed charges (times)

   11.8     10.2     9.8     10.4     8.8  

(c)  Non–GAAP measures are defined and described on pages 32 and 33 of the Group’s Annual Reports and Accounts 2013 furnished separately on 7 March 2014 under Form 6-K and incorporated here by reference. Reconciliations of non-GAAP measures to relevant GAAP measures are detailed below and should be read in conjunction with pages 32 and 33 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2013.

(d)  Net profit margin is expressed as net profit attributable to shareholders’ equity as a percentage of turnover.

       

     

   2013   2012   2011   2010   2009 
Underlying sales growth (%)  vs 2012   vs 2011   vs 2010   vs 2009   vs 2008 

Underlying sales growth (%)

   4.3     6.9     6.5     4.1     3.5  

Effect of acquisitions (%)

        1.8     2.7     0.3     0.6  

Effect of disposals (%)

   (1.1   (0.7   (1.5   (0.8   (3.0

Effect of exchange rates (%)

   (5.9   2.2     (2.5   7.3     (2.7

Turnover growth (%)

   (3.0   10.5     5.0     11.1     (1.7
   2013   2012   2011   2010   2009 
Underlying volume growth (%)  vs 2012   vs 2011   vs 2010   vs 2009   vs 2008 

Underlying volume growth (%)

   2.5     3.4     1.6     5.8     2.3  

Effect of price changes (%)

   1.8     3.3     4.8     (1.6   1.2  

Underlying sales growth (%)

   4.3     6.9     6.5     4.1     3.5  
    million    million    million    million    million 
   2013   2012   2011   2010   2009 
Core operating margin and core operating profit       (Restated)   (Restated)   (Restated)   (Restated) 

Operating profit

   7,517     6,977     6,420     6,325     5,006  

Acquisition and disposal related cost

   112     190     234     50     11  

(Gain)/loss on disposal of group companies

   (733   (117   (221   (468   (4

Impairments and other one-off items

   120          (157   110     (25

Core operating profit

   7,016     7,050     6,276     6,017     4,988  

Turnover

   49,797     51,324     46,467     44,262     39,823  

Operating margin (%)

   15.1     13.6     13.8     14.3     12.6  

Core operating margin (%)

   14.1     13.7     13.5     13.6     12.5  
    million    million    million    million    million 
   2013   2012   2011   2010   2009 
Free cash flow (FCF) to net profit       (Restated)   (Restated)   (Restated)   (Restated) 

Net profit

   5,263     4,836     4,491     4,465     3,646  

Taxation

   1,851     1,697     1,575     1,486     1,253  

Share of net profit of joint ventures/associates and other income from non-current investments

   (127   (91   (189   (187   (489

Net finance costs

   530     535     543     561     596  

Depreciation, amortisation and impairment

   1,151     1,199     1,029     993     1,032  

Changes in working capital

   200     822     (177   169     1,701  

Pensions and similar provisions less payments

   (383   (369   (540   (458   (1,014

Restructuring and other provisions less payments

   126     (43   9     72     (258

Elimination of (profits)/losses on disposals

   (725   (236   (215   (476   13  

Non-cash charge for share-based compensation

   228     153     105     144     195  

Other adjustments

   (15   13     8     49     58  

Cash flow from operating activities

   8,099     8,516     6,639     6,818     6,733  

Income tax paid

   (1,805   (1,680   (1,187   (1,328   (959

Net capital expenditure

   (2,027   (2,143   (1,974   (1,701   (1,258

Net interest and preference dividends paid

   (411   (360   (403   (424   (444

Free cash flow

   3,856     4,333     3,075     3,365     4,072  

Net cash flow (used in)/from investing activities

   (1,161   (755   (4,467   (1,164   (1,263

Net cash flow (used in)/from financing activities

   (5,390   (6,622   411     (4,609   (4,301
                                                                                                    
Ratios and other metrics  2015   2014   2013   2012   2011 

Operating margin (%)

   14.1     16.5     15.1     13.6     13.8  

Net profit margin (%)(c)

   9.9     10.7     9.7     8.5     8.9  

Net debt ( million)(b)

   11,505     9,900     8,456     7,355     8,781  

Ratio of earnings to fixed charges (times)(d)

   11.4     12.3     11.7     10.2     9.8  

 

(b)Non–GAAP measures are defined and described on pages 38 and 39 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2015 furnished separately on 23 February 2016 under Form 6-K and incorporated here by reference. Reconciliations of non-GAAP measures to relevant GAAP measures are detailed below and should be read in conjunction with pages 38 and 39 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2015.
(c)Net profit margin is expressed as net profit attributable to shareholders’ equity as a percentage of turnover.
(d)In the ratio of earnings to fixed charges, earnings consist of net profit from continuing operations excluding net profit or loss of joint ventures and associates increased by fixed charges, income taxes and dividends received from joint ventures and associates. Fixed charges consist of interest payable on debt and a portion of lease costs determined to be representative of interest. This ratio takes no account of interest receivable although Unilever’s treasury operations involve both borrowing and depositing funds.

                                                                                                    
Underlying sales growth (%)  

2015

vs 2014

  

2014

vs 2013

  

2013

vs 2012

  

2012

vs 2011

  

2011

vs 2010

 

Underlying sales growth (%)

   4.1    2.9    4.3    6.9    6.5  

Effect of acquisitions (%)

   0.7    0.4        1.8    2.7  

Effect of disposals (%)

   (0.8  (1.3  (1.1  (0.7  (1.5

Effect of exchange rates (%)

   5.9    (4.6  (5.9  2.2    (2.5

Turnover growth (%)

   10.0    (2.7  (3.0  10.5    5.0  
Underlying volume growth (%)  

2015

vs 2014

  

2014

vs 2013

  

2013

vs 2012

  

2012

vs 2011

  

2011

vs 2010

 

Underlying volume growth (%)

   2.1    1.0    2.5    3.4    1.6  

Effect of price changes (%)

   1.9    1.9    1.8    3.3    4.8  

Underlying sales growth (%)

   4.1    2.9    4.3    6.9    6.5  
Core operating margin and core operating profit  

million

2015

  

million

2014

  

million

2013

  

million

2012

  

million

2011

 

Operating profit

   7,515    7,980    7,517    6,977    6,420  

Acquisition and disposal related cost

   105    97    112    190    234  

(Gain)/loss on disposal of group companies

   9    (1,392  (733  (117  (221

Impairments and other one-off items

   236    335    120        (157
     

Core operating profit

   7,865    7,020    7,016    7,050    6,276  

Turnover

   53,272    48,436    49,797    51,324    46,467  

Operating margin (%)

   14.1    16.5    15.1    13.6    13.8  

Core operating margin (%)

   14.8    14.5    14.1    13.7    13.5  
Free cash flow (FCF) to net profit  

 million

2015

  

 million

2014

  

 million

2013

  

 million

2012

  

 million

2011

 

Net profit

   5,259    5,515    5,263    4,836    4,491  

Taxation

   1,961    2,131    1,851    1,697    1,575  

Share of net profit of joint ventures/associates and other income from
non-current investments

   (198  (143  (127  (91  (189

Net finance costs

   493    477    530    535    543  

Depreciation, amortisation and impairment

   1,370    1,432    1,151    1,199    1,029  

Changes in working capital

   720    8    200    822    (177

Pensions and similar obligations less payments

   (385  (364  (383  (369  (540

Provisions less payments

   (94  32    126    (43  9  

Elimination of (profits)/losses on disposals

   26    (1,460  (725  (236  (215

Non-cash charge for share-based compensation

   150    188    228    153    105  

Other adjustments

   49    38    (15  13    8  

Cash flow from operating activities

   9,351    7,854    8,099    8,516    6,639  

Income tax paid

   (2,021  (2,311  (1,805  (1,680  (1,187

Net capital expenditure

   (2,074  (2,045  (2,027  (2,143  (1,974

Net interest and preference dividends paid

   (460  (398  (411  (360  (403
     

Free cash flow

   4,796    3,100    3,856    4,333    3,075  

Net cash flow (used in)/from investing activities

   (3,539  (341  (1,161  (755  (4,467

Net cash flow (used in)/from financing activities

   (3,032  (5,190  (5,390  (6,622  411  

 

Unilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013Form 20-F                3


ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATIONCONTINUED

    million    million    million    million    million 
Net debt to total financial liabilities  2013   2012   2011   2010   2009 

Total financial liabilities

   (11,501   (10,221   (13,718   (9,534   (9,971

Financial liabilities due within one year

   (4,010   (2,656   (5,840   (2,276   (2,279

Financial liabilities due after one year

   (7,491   (7,565   (7,878   (7,258   (7,692

Cash and cash equivalents as per balance sheet

   2,285     2,465     3,484     2,316     2,642  

Cash and cash equivalents as per cash flow statement

   2,044     2,217     2,978     1,966     2,397  

Add bank overdrafts deducted therein

   241     248     506     350     245  

Financial assets

   760     401     1,453     550     972  

Net debt

   (8,456   (7,355   (8,781   (6,668   (6,357

RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES (TIMES)

For a calculation of our ratio of earnings to fixed charges see Item 19: Exhibits-Calculation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges.

 

DIVIDEND RECORD

The following tables show the dividends declared and dividends paid by NV and PLC for the last five years, expressed in terms of the revised share denominations which became effective from 22 May 2006. Differences between the amounts ultimately received by US holders of NV and PLC shares are the result of changes in exchange rates between the equalisation of the dividends and the date of payment.

 

Following agreement at the 2009 AGMs and separate meetings of ordinary shareholders, the Equalisation Agreement was modified to facilitate the payment of quarterly dividends from 2010 onwards.

 

  

  

  

    

   

    2013   2012   2011   2010   2009 

Dividends declared for the year

          
NV dividends          

Dividend per0.16

   1.08     0.97     0.90     0.83     0.46  

Dividend per0.16 (US Registry)

   US $1.44     US $1.25     US $1.25     US $1.13     US $0.67  
PLC dividends          

Dividend per 31/9p

   £0.91     £0.79     £0.78     £0.71     £0.41  

Dividend per 31/9p (US Registry)

   US $1.44     US $1.25     US $1.25     US $1.13     US $0.67  

Dividends paid during the year

          
NV dividends          

Dividend per0.16

   1.05     0.95     0.88     0.82     0.78  

Dividend per0.16 (US Registry)

   US $1.40     US $1.23     US $1.24     US $1.11     US $1.09  
PLC dividends          

Dividend per 31/9p

   £0.89     £0.77     £0.77     £0.71     £0.64  

Dividend per 31/9p (US Registry)

   US $1.40     US $1.23     US $1.24     US $1.11     US $1.00  

4                Form 20-F2015 Unilever Annual Report on Form 20-F                20133


ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATIONCONTINUED

 

                                                                                                    
Net debt to total financial liabilities  

 million

2015

  

 million

2014

  

 million

2013

  

 million

2012

  

 million

2011

 

Total financial liabilities

   (14,643  (12,722  (11,501  (10,221  (13,718

Financial liabilities due within one year

   (4,789  (5,536  (4,010  (2,656  (5,840

Financial liabilities due after one year

   (9,854  (7,186  (7,491  (7,565  (7,878

Cash and cash equivalents as per balance sheet

   2,302    2,151    2,285    2,465    3,484  

Cash and cash equivalents as per cash flow statement

   2,128    1,910    2,044    2,217    2,978  

Add bank overdrafts deducted therein

   174    241    241    248    506  

Other current financial assets

   836    671    760    401    1,453  

Net debt

   (11,505  (9,900  (8,456  (7,355  (8,781

RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES (TIMES)

For a calculation of our ratio of earnings to fixed charges see Item 19: Exhibits – Calculation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges.

DIVIDEND RECORD

The following tables show the dividends declared and dividends paid by NV and PLC for the last five years, expressed in terms of the revised share denominations which became effective from 22 May 2006. Differences between the amounts ultimately received by US holders of NV and PLC shares are the result of changes in exchange rates between the equalisation of the dividends and the date of payment.

Following agreement at the 2009 Annual General Meetings (AGMs) and separate meetings of ordinary shareholders, the Equalisation Agreement was modified to facilitate the payment of quarterly dividends from 2010 onwards.

                                                                                                    
    2015   2014   2013   2012   2011 

Dividends declared for the year

          

NV dividends

          

Dividend per0.16

   1.21     1.14     1.08     0.97     0.90  

Dividend per0.16 (US Registry)

   US $1.32     US $1.47     US $1.44     US $1.25     US $1.25  

PLC dividends

          

Dividend per 31/9p

   £0.88     £0.90     £0.91     £0.79     £0.78  

Dividend per 31/9p (US Registry)

   US $1.32     US $1.47     US $1.44     US $1.25     US $1.25  

Dividends paid during the year

          

NV dividends

          

Dividend per0.16

   1.19     1.12     1.05     0.95     0.88  

Dividend per0.16 (US Registry)

   US $1.32     US $1.51     US $1.40     US $1.23     US $1.24  

PLC dividends

          

Dividend per 31/9p

   £0.87     £0.91     £0.89     £0.77     £0.77  

Dividend per 31/9p (US Registry)

   US $1.32     US $1.51     US $1.40     US $1.23     US $1.24  

EXCHANGE RATES

Unilever reports its financial results and balance sheet position in euros. Other currencies which may significantly impact our financial statements are sterling and US dollars. Average and year-end exchange rates for these two currencies for the last five years are given below.

 

                                                                                                    
  2013   2012   2011   2010   2009   2015   2014   2013   2012   2011 

Year end

                    

1 = US $

   1.378     1.318     1.294     1.337     1.433     1.092     1.215     1.378     1.318     1.294  

1 = £

   0.833     0.816     0.839     0.862     0.888     0.736     0.781     0.833     0.816     0.839  

Average

                    

1 = US $

   1.325     1.283     1.396     1.326     1.388     1.111     1.334     1.325     1.283     1.396  

1 = £

   0.849     0.811     0.869     0.858     0.891     0.725     0.807     0.849     0.811     0.869  

4                Form 20-FUnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 2015


ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATIONCONTINUED

On 3 March 201415 February 2016 (the latest practicable date for inclusion in this report), the exchange rates between euros and US dollars and between euros and sterling as published in the Financial Times in London were as follows:1 = US $1.377$1.124 and1 = £0.824£0.778.

Noon Buying Rates in New York for cable transfers in foreign currencies as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York were as follows:

 

                                                                                
  2013   2012   2011   2010   2009   2015   2014   2013   2012   2011 

Year end

                    

1 = US $

   1.378     1.319     1.297     1.327     1.433     1.086     1.210     1.378     1.319     1.297  

Average

                    

1 = US $

   1.328     1.286     1.393     1.326     1.394     1.110     1.330     1.328     1.286     1.393  

High

                    

1 = US $

   1.382     1.346     1.488     1.454     1.510     1.202     1.393     1.382     1.346     1.488  

Low

                    

1 = US $

   1.277     1.206     1.293     1.196     1.255     1.052     1.210     1.277     1.206     1.293  

On 12 February 2016 (the latest available data for inclusion in this report), the Noon buying rate was1 = US $1.124.

High and low exchange rate values for each of the last six months:

 

  September
2013
   October
2013
   November
2013
   December
2013
   January
2014
   February
2014
   

August

2015

   

September

2015

   

October

2015

   

November

2015

   

December

2015

   

January

2016

   

February    

2016(e)

 

High

                          

1 = US $

   1.354     1.381     1.361     1.382     1.368     1.381     1.158     1.136     1.144     1.103     1.103     1.096     1.136     

Low

                          

1 = US $

   1.312     1.349     1.336     1.355     1.350     1.351     1.087     1.110     1.096     1.056     1.057     1.074     1.089     

(e)Through 12 February 2016 (the latest available data for inclusion in this report).

SHARE CAPITAL

The information set forth under the heading ‘Note 15A Share capital’ on page 116 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2013 furnished2015furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

B. CAPITALISATION AND INDEBTEDNESS

Not applicable.

C. REASONS FOR THE OFFER AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Not applicable.

D. RISK FACTORS

Our principal risks, as described on pages 34 to 3940 and 41 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 2014on23 February 2016 under Form 6-K, excluding the cross-reference to pages 53 to 57, are incorporated by reference. The information set forth under the heading ‘Note 16 Treasury risk management’ on pages 120 to 125 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2013 furnished separately on 7 March 2014 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

RISK FACTORS

Our business is subject to risks and uncertainties. The risks that we regard as the most relevant to our business are set out below.on pages 40 to 41 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2015 furnished separately on 23 February 2016 under Form 6-K. These are the risks that we see as material to Unilever’s business and performance at this time. There may be other risks which are unknown to Unilever or which are currently believed to be immaterial.that could emerge in the future. We have undertaken certain mitigating actions that we believe help us to manage the risks identified below.identified. However, we may not be successful in deploying some or all of these mitigating actions. If the circumstances in these risk factors occur or are not successfully mitigated, our cashflow,cash flow, operating results, financial position, business and reputation could be materially adversely affected. In addition, risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to vary from those described in this document, or could impact on our ability to meet our targets or be detrimental to our profitability or reputation. ThisThe list is not intended to be exhaustive and there may be other risks and uncertainties that are not mentioned below that could impact our future performance or our ability to meet published targets. The risks and uncertainties discussed below should be read in conjunction with the Group’s consolidated financial statements and related notes and the portions of the Strategic Report and Corporate Governance section that are incorporated by reference from the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2013 (furnished2015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 on Form 6-K)6-K and other information included in or incorporated by reference in this Reportreport on Form 20-F.

 

Unilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 20132015 Form 20-F                5


ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATIONCONTINUED

PRINCIPAL RISK

DESCRIPTION OF RISK

BRAND PREFERENCE

As a branded goods business, Unilever’s success depends on the value and relevance of our brands and products to consumers across the world and on our ability to innovate and remain competitive.

Consumer tastes, preferences and behaviours are constantly changing and Unilever’s ability to anticipate and respond to these changes and to continue to differentiate our brands and products is vital to our business.

We are dependent on creating innovative products that continue to meet the needs of our consumers. If we are unable to innovate effectively, Unilever’s sales or margins could be materially adversely affected.

PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT

Unilever’s strategic investment choices will affect the long-term growth and profits of our business.

Unilever’s growth and profitability are determined by our portfolio of categories, geographies and channels and how these evolve over time. If Unilever does not make optimal strategic investment decisions then opportunities for growth and improved margin could be missed.

SUSTAINABILITY

The success of our business depends on finding sustainable solutions to support long-term growth.

Unilever’s vision to double the size of our business while reducing our environmental footprint and increasing our positive social impact will require more sustainable ways of doing business. This means reducing our environmental footprint while increasing the positive social benefits of Unilever’s activities. We are dependent on the efforts of partners and various certification bodies to achieve our sustainability goals. There can be no assurance that sustainable business solutions will be developed and failure to do so could limit Unilever’s growth and profit potential and damage our corporate reputation.

CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIPS

Successful customer relationships are vital to our business and continued growth.

Maintaining strong relationships with our customers is necessary for our brands to be well presented to our consumers and available for purchase at all times.

The strength of our customer relationships also affects our ability to obtain pricing and secure favourable trade terms. Unilever may not be able to maintain strong relationships with customers and failure to do so could negatively impact the terms of business with the affected customers and reduce the availability of our products to consumers.

TALENT

A skilled workforce is essential for the continued success of our business.

Our ability to attract, develop and retain the right number of appropriately qualified people is critical if we are to compete and grow effectively.

This is especially true in our key emerging markets where there can be a high level of competition for a limited talent pool. The loss of management or other key personnel or the inability to identify, attract and retain qualified personnel could make it difficult to manage the business and could adversely affect operations and financial results.

SUPPLY CHAIN

Our business depends on purchasing materials, efficient manufacturing and the timely distribution of products to our customers.

Our supply chain network is exposed to potentially adverse events such as physical disruptions, environmental and industrial accidents or bankruptcy of a key supplier which could impact our ability to deliver orders to our customers.

The cost of our products can be significantly affected by the cost of the underlying commodities and materials from which they are made. Fluctuations in these costs cannot always be passed on to the consumer through pricing.

SAFE AND HIGH QUALITY PRODUCTS

The quality and safety of our products are of paramount importance for our brands and our reputation.

The risk that raw materials are accidentally or maliciously contaminated throughout the supply chain or that other product defects occur due to human error, equipment failure or other factors cannot be excluded.

SYSTEMS AND INFORMATION

Unilever’s operations are increasingly dependent on IT systems and the management of information.

We interact electronically with customers, suppliers and consumers in ways which place ever greater emphasis on the need for secure and reliable IT systems and infrastructure and careful management of the information that is in our possession.

Disruption of our IT systems could inhibit our business operations in a number of ways, including disruption to sales, production and cash flows, ultimately impacting our results.

There is also a threat from unauthorised access and misuse of sensitive information. Unilever’s information systems could be subject to unauthorised access or the mistaken disclosure of information which disrupts Unilever’s business and/or leads to loss of assets.

6                Form 20-FUnilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013


ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATIONCONTINUED

PRINCIPAL RISK

DESCRIPTION OF RISK

BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION

Successful execution of business transformation projects is key to delivering their intended business benefits and avoiding disruption to other business activities.

Unilever is continually engaged in major change projects, including acquisitions and disposals and outsourcing, to drive continuous improvement in our business and to strengthen our portfolio and capabilities.

Failure to execute such transactions or change projects successfully, or performance issues with third party outsourced providers on which we are dependent, could result in under-delivery of the expected benefits. Furthermore, disruption may be caused in other parts of the business.

EXTERNAL ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL RISKS AND NATURAL DISASTERS

Unilever operates across the globe and is exposed to a range of external economic and political risks and natural disasters that may affect the execution of our strategy or the running of our operations.

Adverse economic conditions may result in reduced consumer demand for our products, and may affect one or more countries within a region, or may extend globally.

Government actions such as fiscal stimulus, changes to taxation and price controls can impact on the growth and profitability of our local operations.

Social and political upheavals and natural disasters can disrupt sales and operations.

In 2013, more than half of Unilever’s turnover came from emerging markets including Brazil, India, Indonesia, Turkey, South Africa, China, Mexico and Russia. These markets offer greater growth opportunities but also expose Unilever to economic, political and social volatility in these markets.

TREASURY AND PENSIONS

Unilever is exposed to a variety of external financial risks in relation to Treasury and Pensions.

Changes to the relative value of currencies can fluctuate widely and could have a significant impact on business results. Further, because Unilever consolidates its financial statements in euros it is subject to exchange risks associated with the translation of the underlying net assets and earnings of its foreign subsidiaries.

We are also subject to the imposition of exchange controls by individual countries which could limit our ability to import materials paid in foreign currency or to remit dividends to the parent company.

Currency rates, along with demand cycles, can also result in significant swings in the prices of the raw materials needed to produce our goods.

Unilever may face liquidity risk, i.e. difficulty in meeting its obligations, associated with its financial liabilities. A material and sustained shortfall in our cash flow could undermine Unilever’s credit rating, impair investor confidence and also restrict Unilever’s ability to raise funds.

We are exposed to market interest rate fluctuations on our floating rate debt. Increases in benchmark interest rates could increase the interest cost of our floating rate debt and increase the cost of future borrowings.

In times of financial market volatility, we are also potentially exposed to counter-party risks with banks, suppliers and customers.

Certain businesses have defined benefit pension plans, most now closed to new employees, which are exposed to movements in interest rates, fluctuating values of underlying investments and increased life expectancy. Changes in any or all of these inputs could potentially increase the cost to Unilever of funding the schemes and therefore have an adverse impact on profitability and cash flow.

ETHICAL

Acting in an ethical manner, consistent with the expectations of customers, consumers and other stakeholders, is essential for the protection of the reputation of Unilever and its brands.

Unilever’s brands and reputation are valuable assets and the way in which we operate, contribute to society and engage with the world around us is always under scrutiny both internally and externally. Despite the commitment of Unilever to ethical business and the steps we take to adhere to this commitment, there remains a risk that activities or events cause us to fall short of our desired standard, resulting in damage to Unilever’s corporate reputation and business results.

LEGAL AND REGULATORY

Compliance with laws and

regulations is an essential part of Unilever’s business operations.

Unilever is subject to local, regional and global laws and regulations in such diverse areas as product safety, product claims, trademarks, copyright, patents, competition, employee health and safety, the environment, corporate governance, listing and disclosure, employment and taxes.

Failure to comply with laws and regulations could expose Unilever to civil and/or criminal actions leading to damages, fines and criminal sanctions against us and/or our employees with possible consequences for our corporate reputation.

Changes to laws and regulations could have a material impact on the cost of doing business. Tax, in particular, is a complex area where laws and their interpretation are changing regularly, leading to the risk of unexpected tax exposure.

UnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 2013Form 20-F                7


ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

A. HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMPANY

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

‘About Unilever’ on page 42;45;
‘Developments in 2015’ on page 33;
‘Financial Review 2013’review 2015’ on pages 2635 to 33;39;
Requirements andCorporate governance compliance’ on pages 4750 to 50;52;
‘Note 10 Property, Plantplant and Equipment’equipment’ on pages 111 and 112;
‘Consolidated cash flow statement’ on page 93;
‘Note 21 Acquisitions and disposals’ on pages 131 and 132;133;
Share Capital’Our shares’ on pages 5147 and 52;
‘Analysis of shareholding’ on pages 51 and 52;48; and
‘Shareholder information’ on pages 146 and 147page 44 (other than ‘Website’).

In 2015 and 2014, the Group did not receive any public takeover offers by third parties in respect of NV or PLC shares or make any public takeover offers in respect of other companies’ shares.

Please refer also to ‘Financial Review 2012’review 2014’ within Item 5A of this report and ‘The Unilever Group’ on page 1 of this report.

B. BUSINESS OVERVIEW

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

‘About us’ on pages 2 and 3;
‘Note 2 Segment information’ on pages 96 and 97;
Reaching more consumers’Our markets’ on pages 10 and 11;
‘Our strategic focus’ on pages 12 and 13;
‘A business model that creates value’ on pages 14 and 15;
‘Delivering value for our stakeholders’ on pages 19 to 34 (excluding the ‘saving water in Brazil’ case study on page 18;16);
‘Financial Review 2013’review 2015’ on pages 2635 to 33;39; and
‘Legal and Regulatory’regulatory’ on page 39.57.

Please refer also to ‘Financial Review 2012’review 2014’ within Item 5A of this report.

Please also refer to ‘The Unilever Group’ on page 1 of this report.

MARKETING CHANNELS

Unilever’s products are generally sold through our own sales force as well as through independent brokers, agents and distributors to chain, wholesale, co-operative and independent grocery accounts, food service distributors and institutions. Products are physically distributed through a network of distribution centres, satellite warehouses, company-operated and public storage facilities, depots and other facilities.

RAW MATERIALS

Our products use a wide variety of raw and packaging materials which we source internationally, and which may be subject to price volatility. AlthoughIn 2015 we have seen rather morerelatively stable conditions in most key commodity markets, in 2013although crude oil and its derivatives have seen falls during the year. Looking ahead to 2016 we remain watchful for furtherpotential periods of renewed volatility, both in 2014.key commodities and in the foreign exchange markets.

SEASONALITY

Certain of our businesses, such as ice cream, are subject to significant seasonal fluctuations in sales. However, Unilever operates globally in many different markets and product categories, and no individual element of seasonality is likely to be material to the results of the Group as a whole.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

We have a large portfolio of patents and trademarks, and we conduct some of our operations under licences that are based on patents or trademarks owned or controlled by others. We are not dependent on any one patent or group of patents. We use all appropriate efforts to protect our brands and technology.

COMPETITION

As a FMCG (fast movingfast-moving consumer goods)goods (FMCG) company, we are competing with a diverse set of competitors. Some of these operate on an international scale like ourselves, while others have a more regional or local focus. Our business model centres on building brands which consumers know, trust, like and buy in conscious preference to competitors’. Our brands command loyalty and affinity and deliver superior performance.

INFORMATION PRESENTED

Unless otherwise stated, share refers to value share. The market data and competitive set classifications are taken from independent industry sources in the markets in which Unilever operates.

IRAN-RELATED REQUIRED DISCLOSURE

Unilever operates in Iran through a non-US subsidiary. In 2013,2015, sales in Iran were significantly less than one percent of Unilever’s worldwide turnover. This non-US subsidiary had two euros (2,4262) in gross revenues and less than one euro (6791) in net profits attributable to the sale of home, personal care and food products to local pharmacies controlledthe Laleh Hotel, which is owned by the Government of Iran, or affiliated entities in 2013. This non-US subsidiary stopped making these sales in October 2013 and does not intend to resume that business.2015. In addition, we advertised our products on television networks that are owned by the Government of Iran or affiliated entities. Income, payroll and other taxes, duties and fees (including for utilities) were payable to the Government of Iran and affiliated entities in connection with our operations. Our non-US subsidiary maintains bank accounts in Iran with various banks to facilitate our business in the country and make any required payments to the Government of Iran and affiliated entities. One of the financial institutions used by our non-US subsidiary is Bank Melli, an entity identified on the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control in the U.S. Department of the Treasury (the ‘SDN list’). The account maintained by our non-US subsidiary with Bank Melli was opened to comply with a requirement that any value added tax collected from customers within Iran is paid to the Iranian tax authorities through an account maintained within Bank Melli. On August 18 2015, our non-US subsidiary acquired an office building from Tidewater Middle East Co. PLC, an entity identified on the SDN list. The consideration for this real estate transaction was10,575,793. Our activities in Iran comply in all material respects with applicable laws and regulations, including US and other international trade sanctions, and except as described above, we plan to continue these activities.

C. ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE

The information set forth under the heading ‘Note 26 Principal group companies and non-current investments’27 Group companies’ on pages 134 and 135136 to 147 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

Please also refer to ‘The Unilever Group’ on page 1 of this report.

D. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

We have interests in properties in most of the countries where there are Unilever operations. However, none isare material in the context of the Group as a whole. The properties are used predominantly to house production and distribution activities and as offices. There is a mixture of leased and owned property throughout the Group. We are not aware of any environmental issues affecting the properties which would have a material impact upon the Group, and there are no material encumbrances on our properties. Any difference between the market value of properties held by the Group and the amount at which they are included in the balance sheet is not significant. We believe our existing facilities are satisfactory for our current business and we currently have no plans to construct new facilities or expand or improve our current facilities in a manner that is material to the Group.

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2013 furnished separately on 7 March 2014 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

‘Noteheading ‘Note 10 Property, plant and equipment’ on pages 111 and 112;112 of the Group’s Annual Report and
‘Note 26 Principal group companies and non-current investments’ Accounts 2015 furnished separately on pages 134 and 135.
23 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

ITEM 4A. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

Not applicable.

 

 

86                Form 20-F UnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 20132015


ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL

REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

A. OPERATING RESULTS

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

Our key performance indicators’Financial performance’ on page 3;16;
Outlook’Our markets’ on pagepages 10 and 11;
‘Our shareholders’ on pages 32 to 34;
‘Financial review 2013’2015’ on pages 2635 to 33;39;
‘Currency risk’ on pages 122 toand 123; and
‘Legal and Regulatory’regulatory’ on page 39.57.

Please refer also to ‘Outlook’ within Item 5D of this report.

FINANCIAL REVIEW 20122014

BASIS OF REPORTING

The information set forth under the heading ‘Basis of reporting and critical accounting policies’‘Consolidated income statement’ on page 3135 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

GROUP RESULTS AND EARNINGS PER SHARE

The following discussion summarises the results of the Group during the years 20122014 and 2011.2013. The figures quoted are in euros, at current rates of exchange, being the average rates applying in each period as applicable, unless otherwise stated. Information about exchange rates between the euro, pound sterling and US dollar is given on page 54 of this report.

In 20122014 and 2011,2013, no disposals qualified to be disclosed as discontinued operations for purposes of reporting.

 

  2012   2011   % change 
  (Restated)   (Restated)        2014   2013   % change 

Turnover ( million)

   51,324     46,467     10.5   48,436     49,797     (2.7

Operating profit ( million)

   6,977     6,420     9   7,980     7,517     6  

Core operating profit
( million)

   7,050     6,276     12   7,020     7,016       

Profit before tax ( million)

   6,533     6,066     8   7,646     7,114     7  

Net profit ( million)

   4,836     4,491     8   5,515     5,263     5  

Diluted earnings per
share ()

   1.50     1.42     6   1.79     1.66     8  

Core earnings per share ()

   1.53     1.37     12   1.61     1.58     2  

Turnover at51.348.4 billion increased 10.5%,decreased 2.7% in 2014, including a positivenegative impact from both foreign exchange, of 2.2%4.6%, and acquisitions net of disposals of 1.1%0.9%. Underlying sales growth increased to 6.9%was 2.9% (2013: 4.3%), well balanced between volume growth of 3.4%1.0% (2013: 2.5%) and price contributionspricing of 3.3%1.9% (2013: 1.8%). As in the prior year, emergingEmerging markets, grew strongly,consistent at 57% of total turnover, were down 2.2% at reported exchange rates, with underlying sales growth of 5.7% versus 8.7% in 2013. Developed markets underlying sales declined by 0.8%. Globally, our markets grew by around 2.5% with flat volumes.

Core operating margin was up 11.4%0.4 percentage points to 14.5%. Gross margin declined by 0.2 percentage points to 41.4%. This was driven by increased costs in emerging markets, largely currency related, partly offset by pricing, savings and now representing 55%margin-accretive innovation. Commodity costs increased around 4%, at constant exchange rates, as devaluing currencies had imported inflation into local raw material production partially offset by cost savings.

Significant efficiencies in the cost of total turnover.producing advertising allowed Unilever to increase its share of spend in 2014 while maintaining brand and marketing investment at 14.8%. Overheads were reduced by 0.6 percentage points largely due to saving initiatives such as Project Half for Growth and some favourable one-off items such as property sales in India.

Operating profit was7.08.0 billion in 2014, compared with6.47.5 billion in 2011,2013, up 9%6%. The increase was driven by higher gross profitnon-core items which were a net credit of960 million (2013:501 million). Included within non-core items was the gain on disposal of the Ragu and improved cost discipline. Core operating profit wasBertolli pasta sauces business and the Bifi and Peperami brands. Unilever sold the Slim.Fast business and recognised an impairment charge of7.1 billion, up 12% from6.3 billion in 2011, reflecting305 million on the additional impact of lower one-off creditsrelated assets within non-core items.

The cost of financing net borrowings in 2014 was390383 million versus58397 million less than in 2011. The average level of net debt increased by0.7 billion to8.9 billion, reflecting the full-year impact of financing prior year acquisitions such as Alberto Culver.2013. The average interest rate on borrowings was 3.5% on debt and 2.9%the average return on cash deposits. The pensionsdeposits was 3.8%. Pensions financing cost was a charge of14594 million compared toversus a charge of95133 million in 2011.2013.

The effective tax rate was 26.0% compared with 26.0%28.2%, higher than the 26.4% in 2011.2013 due to the impact of business disposals. Unilever’s longer term expectation remains around 26%.

Net profit from joint ventures and associates, together with other income from non-current investments, contributed91143 million in 2012, compared to189127 million in the prior year. Assets related to businesses sold in previous years recorded positive adjustments to fair value in 2011, whilst similar but unrelated assets were impaired in 2012.

Fully diluted2013. Diluted earnings per share werefor the full year was up 8% at1.50, up 6% from1.42 in the prior year. Higher operating profit was the key driver with lower profits from business disposals and one-off items, partially offset by higher minority interests and pension costs and a lower contribution from non-current investments.1.79. Core earnings per share were1.53,1.61, up 12%2% from1.371.58 in 2011, reflecting the additional impact of lower one-off credits within non-core items.2013 after a 9% currency headwind.

LOGO

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS ON 2014 EXPENSES WHICH MATERIALLY IMPACTEDAND OPERATING PROFIT IN 2012

Absolute turnover grewCore operating profit improvement in Personal Care (increased by4.9 billion which translated into a core operating profit increase of119 million) was offset by the decline in Foods (down by774 million72 million) and an operating profit increase ofRefreshments (down by557 million due to cost increases in the following key areas.45 million). Home Care was broadly flat.

CostsCost of raw and packaging materialsmaterial and goods purchased for resale increased(material costs) decreased by1.70.3 billion, driven primarily by increased business volumethe exchange rate deprecation of1.3 billion1.0 billion; at constant exchange rates it was up by0.7 billion. At constant exchange rates, the gross total input costs (before savings and inputincluding material costs, distribution and supply chain indirects) increase of1.11.2 billion was more than offset by other items includingprice increase of1.0 billion, and material costcosts savings of1.0 billion during the year. However, adverse currency impact on material costs of0.7 billion during the year. Additionally, distributionled to a gross margin decline of 0.2 percentage points to 41.4%.

Staff costs increasedwere down by184 million. Despite these increases, due to higher selling prices0.1 billion on account of lower pension and benefit from customers buying products with higher margins, gross margin improvedshare-based payments costs. We maintained our brand and marketing investment at 14.8% (increased by 0.1% to 40.0%0.1 billion at constant exchange rates.

Staff costs increased by0.9 billion due to salary inflation, particularly in emerging markets, higher pensions charge as a result of one-off credits taken in the prior year and higher bonuses.

Advertising and promotional expenses increased by694 millionrates) as we continuecontinued to invest behindin our brands.

The impact of input costscost and investment in advertising and promotional expenses areour brands is discussed further in our segmental disclosures, which also provide additional details onof the impact of brands, products and subcategories on driving top linetop-line growth.

Out of the increase of774 million in core operating profit, the majority of it was contributed by Personal Care (365 million) and Refreshments (235 million).

IMPACT OF COMMODITY COSTS ON GROSS MARGIN

During 2012, the Unilever Group faced cost inflation of over1.5 billion. The Unilever Group actively mitigates the impact of cost inflation through a combination of price increases and costs savings to protect its margin. Hence, despite cost increases, the Unilever Group was able to improve its gross margin by 0.1 percentage points during 2012. Specifically gross margin was protected in 3 out of the 4 categories. In our Foods category the impact of high vegetable oil prices was not fully recovered as described below. Petrochemicals materially affect our Home Care category, where we have protected our margins. There are no other commodities that have a material impact.

Part of our commodity risk, principally vegetable oils and petrochemicals, is hedged using a combination of physical contracts as well as derivatives (futures and options).

 

 

UnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 20132015 Form 20-F                97


ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL

REVIEW AND PROSPECTSCONTINUED

LOGO

 

PERSONAL CARE

PERSONAL CARE      
   million    million   %   2014   2013   

%

Change

 
  2012   2011   Change 
  (Restated)   (Restated)      

Turnover

   18,097     15,471     17.0  

Operating profit

   2,925     2,533     15.5  

Core operating profit

   3,085     2,720     13.4  

Turnover ( million)

   17,739     18,056     (1.8

Operating profit ( million)

   3,259     3,078     5.9  

Core operating profit ( million)

   3,325     3,206     3.7  

Core operating margin (%)

   17.0     17.6     (0.6   18.7     17.8     0.9  

Underlying sales growth (%)

   10.0     8.2       3.5     7.3    

Underlying volume growth (%)

   6.5     4.2       1.2     5.5    

Effect of price changes (%)

   3.3     3.8        2.3     1.7     

KEY DEVELOPMENTS

Personal Care turned in yetdelivered another year of strong performance withunderlying growth, although exchange rate movements (5.0%) led to turnover growth of 17%.decreasing on 2013. Underlying sales growth, at 3.5%, remained above Unilever’s markets which slowed to around 3% for 2014. Volume growth was lower than 2013 due to the slowdown of 10.0%global markets and high competitive intensity. Growth benefited from a strong set of new product launches such as the Dove Advanced Hair Series and compressed deodorants in Europe.
Core operating profit improved by119 million over 2013 despite a300 million reduction from exchange rate movements. Underlying sales growth contributed189 million while improved margin added230 million. Margin improvement was driven by bothUnilever’s savings programmes, an improved mix from margin accretive innovation and savings in the cost of producing advertising, which is highest in Personal Care.

HOME CARE      
    2014   2013   

%

Change

 

Turnover ( million)

   9,164     8,946     2.4  

Operating profit ( million)

   576     524     9.9  

Core operating profit ( million)

   579     577     0.3  

Core operating margin (%)

   6.3     6.4     (0.1

Underlying sales growth (%)

   5.8     8.0    

Underlying volume growth (%)

   2.4     5.7    

Effect of price changes (%)

   3.4     2.1       

KEY DEVELOPMENTS

Home Care turnover showed strong underlying volume growth in 2014, supported by the impact of 6.5% and a positive price contributionthe Qinyuan acquisition in March 2014 of 3.3%1.8%, but this was partially offset by exchange rate movements (4.8%). This was spurred by innovations like Dove Nutrium Moisturethe result of a strong portfolio of brands across price points, the depth of Unilever’s distribution and sustained investment in product performance. Unilever successfully extended the Omo brand into Saudi Arabia and the roll-outGulf, and launched a range of our brandsOmo stain removers and
pre-treaters in new markets like TRESemmé in Brazil and complemented by a strong contribution of the recently acquired brands from the Kalina acquisition.Brazil.
Core operating profit at3.1 billion579 million was higher bybroadly unchanged on 2013 after an adverse36584 million over the prior year. Out of the365 million, turnover growth contributed465 million whichfrom exchange rates was offset by underlying sales growth adding100 million from a reduction in core operatingwith acquisitions adding5 million. Decreasing margin reduced profit by 0.6 percentage points primarily due to continued investments in building beauty capabilities and infrastructure, while19 million as gross margins remained stable.

REFRESHMENT

    million    million   % 
   2012   2011   Change 
    (Restated)   (Restated)      

Turnover

   9,726     8,804     10.5  

Operating profit

   908     720     26.1  

Core operating profit

   908     673     34.9  

Core operating margin (%)

   9.3     7.7     1.6  

Underlying sales growth (%)

   6.3     4.9    

Underlying volume growth (%)

   2.4     1.4    

Effect of price changes (%)

   3.9     3.4       

KEY DEVELOPMENTS

Refreshment performance improved in growth momentum and profitability. Turnover grewwere impacted by a strong 10.5% with underlying sales growth of 6.3% reflecting good contributioncost increases from underlying volume growth of 2.4% and underlying price growth of 3.9%. In ice cream, growth momentum was driven by powerful performance in Latin America, Asia, North America and Europe and benefited from innovation behind our global brands such as Magnum, which is now a brand with sales in excess of1 billion. In tea, innovation improved growth momentum in particularweaker currencies in emerging markets such as Russia, Arabiawhich were not fully offset by pricing and India.
Core operating profit at908 million improved by235 million over the previous year. Out of the235 million, turnover growth contributed70 million whilesavings. There was a strong improvement in core operating marginthe second half of the year, which was boosted by 1.6 percentage points contributed165 million. Core operating margin improvement was driven primarily by higher gross margin arisinggains from a strong savings programme and cost discipline.property sales in India.

FOODS

 

    million   million  % 
   2012  2011  Change 
    (Restated)  (Restated)     

Turnover

   14,444    13,986    3.3  

Operating profit

   2,601    2,688    (3.2

Core operating profit

   2,528    2,444    3.4  

Core operating margin (%)

   17.5    17.5      

Underlying sales growth (%)

   1.8    4.9   

Underlying volume growth (%)

   (0.9  (1.2 

Effect of price changes (%)

   2.7    6.2      
FOODS    
    2014  2013  

%

Change

 

Turnover ( million)

   12,361    13,426    (7.9

Operating profit ( million)

   3,607    3,064    17.7  

Core operating profit ( million)

   2,305    2,377    (3.0

Core operating margin (%)

   18.6    17.7    0.9  

Underlying sales growth (%)

   (0.6  0.3   

Underlying volume growth (%)

   (1.1  (0.6 

Effect of price changes (%)

   0.6    0.9      

KEY DEVELOPMENTS

Foods turnover declined in 2014 primarily due to exchange rate movements (3.9%) and business disposals (3.6%) including the Ragu and Bertolli pasta sauces business. Savoury and dressings both grew by 3.3% duringbut spreads declined due to lower consumer demand for margarine in Europe and North America. Unilever gained market share in margarine but this was insufficient to offset the year. Underlying sales growthdecline of the category which also saw price deflation in Foods was 1.8%. Underlying volume growth was (0.9)%, continuing to reflect the impact of a contracting spreads market and the price rises we took in 2011 to counter significant increases in input prices. Growth was supported by the roll-out of innovations such as Knorr jelly bouillon and Knorr baking bags, as well as solid results delivered by our Food Solutions business.benign commodity cost environment.
Core operating profit atwas2.5 billion increased by72 million lower than 2013 after a8495 million over previous year. This increase was entirely due to increaseadverse impact from exchange rates, a reduction of105 million from disposals and a23 million reduction from declining underlying sales. Improved margin added152 million driven by savings in turnover. Core operating margin wassupply chain costs and Unilever’s overheads reduction programme, particularly in line with previous year as the impact of higher commodity costs on gross margins was offset by improved cost discipline and savings delivery.Europe where Unilever has a large Foods business.

HOME CARE

 

REFRESHMENT     
   million    million   %   2014   2013 

%

Change

 
  2012   2011   Change 
  (Restated)   (Restated)      

Turnover

   9,057     8,206     10.4  

Operating profit

   543     479     13.4  

Core operating profit

   529     439     20.5  

Turnover ( million)

   9,172     9,369   (2.1

Operating profit ( million)

   538     851   (36.8

Core operating profit ( million)

   811     856   (5.3

Core operating margin (%)

   5.8     5.4     0.4     8.8     9.1   (0.3

Underlying sales growth (%)

   10.3     8.1       3.8     1.1   

Underlying volume growth (%)

   6.2     2.2       2.0     (1.8 

Effect of price changes (%)

   3.9     5.8        1.8     2.9    

KEY DEVELOPMENTS

Home Care delivered a strong performance with turnover growth of 10.4%
Refreshment turnover declined in 2014 due to exchange rate movements (4.6%) and business disposals (1.6%), primarily Slim.Fast, offset by acquisitions of 0.4%, primarily Talenti Gelato & Sorbetto. Underlying sales growth was driven by good volume growth in ice cream due to a strong innovation programme. The more premium brands such as Ben & Jerry’s and Magnum grew particularly well. Cornetto also had a strong 2014 with multi-media advertising building the core brand and new smaller products launched at lower price points. Tea grew, with a better performance in the US offsetting weaker sales in Russia and Poland.
Core operating profit was45 million lower than 2013 due to underlying sales growth, of 10.3%, balanced between volume growth of 6.2% and price changes contributing 3.9%. We improved our market position in highly competitive markets such as the UK, France, China and South Africa on the back of continued innovation and continuing success of our brands like Omo and Comfort. Household care growth was equally supported by the roll-out of new and improved products, driving strong growth momentum for our global brands Domestos, Cif and Sunlight.
Core operating profit atwhich added52980 million, improvedoffset by a73 million adverse impact of exchange rates and a41 million reduction due to disposals. Margins declined, reducing profit by9011 million, over previous year. Out of the90 million, turnover growth contributed45 million, while improvement in core operating marginas higher dairy and chocolate prices were not fully recovered by 0.4 percentage points contributed45 million primarily due to better gross margins benefiting from successful new business models.pricing and savings.
 

 

108                Form 20-F UnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 20132015


ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL

REVIEW AND PROSPECTSCONTINUED

NON-GAAP MEASURES

The information set forth under the heading ‘Non-GAAP measures’ on pages 3238 and 3339 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

UNDERLYING SALES GROWTH (USG)

The reconciliation of USG to changes in the GAAP measure turnover is as follows:

TOTAL GROUP

TOTAL GROUP   
  

2012

vs 2011

 

2011

vs 2010

   2014
vs 2013
 2013
vs 2012
 

Underlying sales growth (%)

   6.9   6.5     2.9   4.3  

Effect of acquisitions (%)

   1.8   2.7     0.4      

Effect of disposals (%)

   (0.7 (1.5   (1.3 (1.1

Effect of exchange rates (%)

   2.2   (2.5   (4.6 (5.9

Turnover growth (%)

   10.5   5.0  

Turnover growth (%)(a)

   (2.7 (3.0
PERSONAL CARE      
  

2012

vs 2011

 

2011

vs 2010

   

2014

vs 2013

 

2013

vs 2012

 

Underlying sales growth (%)

   10.0   8.2     3.5   7.3  

Effect of acquisitions (%)

   4.4   7.3           

Effect of disposals (%)

   (0.5 (0.2   (0.1 (0.2

Effect of exchange rates (%)

   2.3   (2.9   (5.0 (6.8

Turnover growth (%)

   17.0   12.4  

Turnover growth (%)(a)

   (1.8 (0.2
FOODS      
  

2012

vs 2011

 

2011

vs 2010

   

2014

vs 2013

 

2013

vs 2012

 

Underlying sales growth (%)

   1.8   4.9     (0.6 0.3  

Effect of acquisitions (%)

      0.2           

Effect of disposals (%)

   (1.5 (4.3   (3.6 (3.7

Effect of exchange rates (%)

   3.0   (1.9   (3.9 (3.8

Turnover growth (%)

   3.3   (1.3

Turnover growth (%)(a)

   (7.9 (7.0
HOME CARE   
  

2014

vs 2013

 

2013

vs 2012

 

Underlying sales growth (%)

   5.8   8.0  

Effect of acquisitions (%)

   1.8   0.1  

Effect of disposals (%)

         

Effect of exchange rates (%)

   (4.8 (8.6

Turnover growth (%)(a)

   2.4   (1.2
REFRESHMENT      
  

2012

vs 2011

 

2011

vs 2010

   

2014

vs 2013

 

2013

vs 2012

 

Underlying sales growth (%)

   6.3   4.9     3.8   1.1  

Effect of acquisitions (%)

   0.8   0.3     0.4   0.1  

Effect of disposals (%)

   0.7   (0.3   (1.6    

Effect of exchange rates (%)

   2.4   (2.5   (4.6 (4.7

Turnover growth (%)

   10.5   2.3  
HOME CARE   
  

2012

vs 2011

 

2011

vs 2010

 

Underlying sales growth (%)

   10.3   8.1  

Effect of acquisitions (%)

   0.6   1.3  

Effect of disposals (%)

   (1.1 0.1  

Effect of exchange rates (%)

   0.6   (3.1

Turnover growth (%)

   10.4   6.2  

Turnover growth (%)(a)

   (2.1 (3.7

(a)Turnover growth is made up of distinct individual growth components namely underlying sales, currency impact, acquisitions and disposals. Turnover growth is arrived at by multiplying these individual components on a compounded basis as there is a currency impact on each of the other components. Accordingly, turnover growth is more than just the sum of the individual components.

UNDERLYING VOLUME GROWTH (UVG)

Underlying Volume Growth or “UVG” is part of USG and means, for the applicable period, the increase in turnover in such period calculated as the sum of (1) the increase in turnover attributable to the volume of products sold; and (2) the increase in turnover attributable to the composition of products sold during such period. UVG therefore excludes any impact to USG due to changes in prices. The relationship between the two measuresUVG and USG is set out below:

 

  

2012

vs 2011

   

2011

vs 2010

   

2014

vs 2013

   

2013

vs 2012

 

Underlying volume growth (%)

   3.4     1.6     1.0     2.5  

Effect of price changes (%)

   3.3     4.8     1.9     1.8  

Underlying sales growth (%)

   6.9     6.5     2.9     4.3  

FREE CASH FLOW (FCF)

Within the Unilever Group, free cash flow (FCF) is defined as cash flow from operating activities, less income taxes paid, net capital expenditures and net interest payments and preference dividends paid. It does not represent residual cash flows entirely available for discretionary purposes; for example, the repayment of principal amounts borrowed is not deducted from FCF. Free cash flow reflects an additional way of viewing our liquidity that we believe is useful to investors because it represents cash flows that could be used for distribution of dividends, repayment of debt or to fund our strategic initiatives, including acquisitions, if any.

The reconciliation of FCF to net profit is as follows:

 

                                      
    

million

2012

(Restated)

  

million

2011

(Restated)

 

Net profit

   4,836    4,491  

Taxation

   1,697    1,575  

Share of net profit of joint ventures/associates and other income from non-current investments

   (91  (189

Net finance cost

   535    543  

Depreciation, amortisation and impairment

   1,199    1,029  

Changes in working capital

   822    (177

Pensions and similar obligations less payments

   (369  (540

Provisions less payments

   (43  9  

Elimination of (profits)/losses on disposals

   (236  (215

Non-cash charge for share-based compensation

   153    105  

Other adjustments

   13    8  

Cash flow from operating activities

   8,516    6,639  

Income tax paid

   (1,680  (1,187

Net capital expenditure

   (2,143  (1,974

Net interest and preference dividends paid

   (360  (403

Free cash flow

   4,333    3,075  

Net cash flow (used in)/from investing activities

   (755  (4,467

Net cash flow (used in)/from financing activities

   (6,622  411  

CORE OPERATING MARGIN AND CORE OPERATING PROFIT

Core operating profit and core operating margin mean operating profit and operating margin, respectively, before the impact of business disposals, acquisition and disposal related costs, impairments and other one-off items, which we collectively term non-core items, on the grounds that the incidence of these items is uneven between reporting periods.

The reconciliation of core operating profit to operating profit is as follows:

                                      
    

million

2012

(Restated)

  

million

2011

(Restated)

 

Operating profit

   6,977    6,420  

Acquisition and disposal related costs

   190    234  

(Gain)/loss on disposal of group companies

   (117  (221

Impairments and other one-off items

       (157

Core operating profit

   7,050    6,276  

Turnover

   51,324    46,467  

Operating margin (%)

   13.6    13.8  

Core operating margin (%)

   13.7    13.5  

Unilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013Form 20-F                11


ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL

REVIEW AND PROSPECTSCONTINUED

                            
    

 million

2014

  

 million

2013

 

Net profit

   5,515    5,263  

Taxation

   2,131    1,851  

Share of net profit of joint ventures/associates and other income from non-current investments

   (143  (127

Net finance cost

   477    530  

Depreciation, amortisation and impairment

   1,432    1,151  

Changes in working capital

   8    200  

Pensions and similar obligations less payments

   (364  (383

Provisions less payments

   32    126  

Elimination of (profits)/losses on disposals

   (1,460  (725

Non-cash charge for share-based compensation

   188    228  

Other adjustments

   38    (15

Cash flow from operating activities

   7,854    8,099  

Income tax paid

   (2,311  (1,805

Net capital expenditure

   (2,045  (2,027

Net interest and preference dividends paid

   (398  (411

Free cash flow

   3,100    3,856  

Net cash flow (used in)/from investing activities

   (341  (1,161

Net cash flow (used in)/from financing activities

   (5,190  (5,390

CORE OPERATING PROFIT AND CORE OPERATING MARGIN

The reconciliation of core operating profit to operating profit is as follows:

 

  

   

     million
2014
   million
2013
 

Operating profit

   7,980    7,517  

Acquisition and disposal related costs

   97    112  

(Gain)/loss on disposal of group companies

   (1,392  (733

Impairments and other one-off items

   335    120  

Core operating profit

   7,020    7,016  

Turnover

   48,436    49,797  

Operating margin

   16.5  15.1

Core operating margin

   14.5  14.1

NET DEBT

The reconciliation of net debt to the GAAP measure total financial liabilities is as follows:

 

                            
   million
2012
  million
2011
   

million

2014

 

million

2013

 

Total financial liabilities

   (10,221  (13,718   

 

(12,722

 

 

  

 

(11,501

 

 

     

Financial liabilities due within one year

   (2,656 (5,840

Financial liabilities due after one year

   (7,565 (7,878

Current financial liabilities

   (5,536 (4,010

Non-current financial liabilities

   (7,186 (7,491

Cash and cash equivalents as per balance sheet

   2,465    3,484     

 

2,151

 

  

 

  

 

2,285

 

  

 

     

Cash and cash equivalents as per cash flow statement

   2,217   2,978     1,910   2,044  

Bank overdrafts deducted therein

   248   506     241   241  

Financial assets

   401    1,453  

Current financial assets

   671    760  

Net debt

   (7,355  (8,781   (9,900  (8,456

ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSALS – 2011

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2015 furnished separately on 23 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

‘Note 21 Acquisitions and disposals’ on pages 131 to 133; and
‘Consolidated cash flow statement’ on page 93.

On March 20113 January 2013 the Group announced that it had signed a bindingdefinitive agreement to sell theits global SanexSkippy business to Colgate-PalmoliveHormel Foods for672 a total cash consideration of approximately US $700 million. The deal wastransaction completed on 20 June 2011.31 January 2013, excluding

Unilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 2015Form 20-F                9


ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTSCONTINUED

the portion operated out of China, which completed on 26 November 2013.

On 10 May 20118 April 2013 Unilever Czech Republic signed an agreement to acquire the SAVO and other consumer brands from Bochemie. This completed on 1 July 2013.

On 26 July 2013 Unilever signed an agreement to sell its Unipro bakery & industrial oils business in Turkey to AAK for an undisclosed sum. This completed on 2 September 2013.

On 6 September 2013 Unilever announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire T2, a premium Australian tea business, for an undisclosed amount. This completed on 3 October 2013.

On 1 October 2013 the Group completed the sale of its Wish-Bone and Western dressings brands to Pinnacle Foods Inc. for a total cash consideration of approximately US $580 million.

On 19 November 2013 Unilever signed an agreement for the sale of its Soft & Beautiful, TCB and Pro-Line Comb-Thru brands to Strength of Nature for an undisclosed amount. The sale excludes TCB’s business in Africa.

The Group’s capital expenditure is mainly on purchase of 100% of Alberto Culver at a consideration of2,689 million in cash.

On 6 December 2011 the Group completed theproperty, plant and equipment as well as acquisition of 82% of the outstanding shares of Concern Kalina, one of Russia’s leading local personal caregroup companies.

B. LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

(I) INFORMATION REGARDING THE GROUP’S LIQUIDITY

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

Cash flow’ on page 37;
‘Balance sheet’ on page 37;
Finance and liquidity’ and ‘Financial Instruments and Risk’ on pages 30 and 31;page 38;
Contractual obligations at 31 December 2015’ on page 37;
‘Note 16B Management of market risk’ on pages 122 to 124;
Note 16A Management of liquidity risk’ on page 120 to 122;
Note 15 Capital and funding’ on pages 115 toand 116;
‘Going concern’ on page 85;
‘Cash flow’ on page 29;84;
‘Consolidated cash flow statement’ on page 93;
Note 15C Financial liabilities’ on page 118 and 119;
Note 17A Financial assets’ on pagepages 126 and 127; and
‘Note 17 Investment and return’ on pages 125 and 126.

Please refer also to 126.‘Contractual obligations at 31 December 2015’ on page 11 of this report.

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RISK

The key financial instruments used by Unilever are short-term and long-term borrowings, cash and cash equivalents, and certain plain vanilla derivative instruments, principally comprising interest rate swaps and foreign exchange contracts. Treasury processes are governed by standards approved by the Unilever Leadership Executive. Unilever manages a variety of market risks, including the effects of changes in foreign exchange rates, interest rates, commodity costs and liquidity.

The information set forth under the heading ‘Note 16 Treasury risk management’ on pages 120 to 125 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2015 furnished separately on 23 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

(II) INFORMATION REGARDING THE TYPE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS USED, THE MATURITY PROFILE OF DEBT, CURRENCY AND INTEREST RATE STRUCTURE

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

‘Note 15 Capital and funding’ on pages 115 and 116;
Note 15C Financial liabilities’ on pages 118 andpage 119;
‘Financial assets’ on pages 126 and 127;
‘Note 16 Treasury risk management’ on pages 120 to 125;
‘Note 17 Investment and return’ on pages 125 and 126;
‘Note 17A Financial Assets’ on pages 126 and 127;
‘Note 18 Financial instruments fair value risk’ on pages 127 to 129;
‘Financial instruments and risk’ on page 31; and
‘Our risk appetite and approach to risk management’ on page 34.53.

Please also refer to ‘Information regarding the Group’s liquidity’ within Item 5B(I) of this report.

(III) INFORMATION REGARDING THE GROUP’S MATERIAL COMMITMENTS FOR CAPITAL EXPENDITURE

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

‘Note 20 Commitments and contingent liabilities’ on pages 129 to130 and 131; and
‘Note 10 Property, plant and equipment’ on pages 111 and 112.

C. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, PATENTS AND LICENCES, ETC.

The information set forth under the heading ‘Fewer, Bigger Innovations’‘A business model that creates value’ on page 12pages 14 and ‘Innovating Together’ on page 2115 and ‘Note 3 Gross profit and operating costs’ on page 98 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

D. TREND INFORMATION

Please refer also to Item 3D ‘Risk factors’ on pagespage 5 to 7 of this report.

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

Our markets’ on pages 10 and 11;
‘Our Financial Growth Model’ on page 34; and
Financial review 2013’2015’ on pages 2635 to 33;39.

OUTLOOK

Unilever does not expect to see any significant or immediate improvement in the overall health of the world economy. It is clear that the economic recovery in the developed markets of Europe and

‘Outlook’ North America will remain slow and protracted, while the slowdown in the emerging markets is likely to continue for some time to come. For all these reasons, Unilever remains prudent in its approach and single-mindedly focused in building the resilience and the agility of our portfolio and our organisation. Unilever made good progress on page 34.
these fronts in 2015, which gives the Group further confidence that it can continue to deliver on its objective of consistent top and bottom line growth, to the benefit of its long-term shareholders and the many others who rely on Unilever.

Please refer also to ‘Financial review 2012’2014’ within Item 5A of this report on pages 9 to 12.report.

E. OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

‘Note 16 Treasury risk management’ on pages 120 to 125;
‘Note 18 Financial instruments fair value risk’ on pages 127 to 129; and
‘Note 20 Commitments and contingent liabilities’ on pages 129 to130 and 131.

10                Form 20-FUnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 2015


ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTSCONTINUED

F. TABULAR DISCLOSURE OF CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS AT 31 DECEMBER 2015

    million    million    million    million    million 
       Due   Due in   Due in   Due in 
       within   1-3   3-5   over 
    Total   1 year   years   years   5 years 

Long-term debt

   13,930     4,353     2,650     2,720     4,207  

Interest on financial liabilities

   2,571     304     519     374     1,374  

Operating lease obligations

   2,454     410     670     517     857  

Purchase obligations(a)

   267     211     46     10       

Finance leases

   302     51     47     38     166  

Other long-term commitments

   1,517     708     635     139     35  

Total

   21,041     6,037     4,567     3,798     6,639  

(a)For raw and packaging materials and finished goods.

Unilever’s contractual obligations at the end of 2015 included capital expenditure commitments, borrowings, lease commitments and other commitments. A summary of certain contractual obligations at 31 December 2015 is provided in the preceding table.

The information set forth under the heading ‘Contractual obligations at 31 December 2013’ on page 31following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.reference:

‘Note 10 Property, plant and equipment’ on pages 111 and 112;
‘Note 15C Financial liabilities’ on pages 119; and
‘Note 20 Commitments and contingent liabilities’ on pages 130 and 131.

G. SAFE HARBOUR

This document may contain forward-looking statements, including ‘forward-looking statements’ within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as ‘will’, ‘aim’, ‘expects’, ‘anticipates’, ‘intends’, ‘looks’, ‘believes’, ‘vision’, or the negative of these terms and other similar expressions of future performance or results, and their negatives, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon current expectations and assumptions regarding anticipated developments and other factors affecting the Group.Unilever Group (the “Group”). They are not historical facts, nor are they guarantees of future performance.

Because these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, there are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Among other risks and uncertainties, the material or principal factors which could cause actual results to differ materially are: Unilever’s global brands not meeting consumer preferences; Unilever’s ability to innovate and remain competitive; Unilever’s investment choices in its portfolio management; inability to find sustainable solutions to support long-term growth; customer relationships; the recruitment and retention of talented employees; disruptions in our supply chain; the cost of raw materials and commodities; the production of safe and high qualityhigh-quality products; secure and reliable IT infrastructure; successful execution of acquisitions, divestitures and business transformation projects; economic and political risks and natural disasters; financial risks; failure to meet high ethical standards; and managing regulatory, tax and legal matters.

12                Form 20-FUnilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013


ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL

REVIEW AND PROSPECTSCONTINUED

Further details of potential risks and uncertainties affecting the Group are described in the Group’s filings with the London Stock Exchange, Euronext Amsterdam and the US Securities and Exchange Commission, including in the Group’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2013 and the Annual Report and Accounts 2013. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this document. Except as required by any applicable law or regulation, the Group expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Group’s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

Further details of potential risks and uncertainties affecting the Group are described in the Group’s filings with the London Stock Exchange, Euronext Amsterdam and the US Securities and Exchange Commission, including this report and the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2015 furnished separately on 23 February 2016 under Form 6-K.

ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

A. DIRECTORS AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT

(I) NAME, EXPERIENCE AND FUNCTIONS

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

‘Unilever Leadership Executive (ULE)’ on page 41;59;
‘Board of Directors’ on page 40;58; and
The Boards’Boards‘ on pages 42 topage 45.

(II) ACTIVITIES OUTSIDE THE ISSUING COMPANY

The information set forth under the headings ‘Board of Directors’ and ‘Unilever Leadership Executive (ULE)’ on pages 4058 and 4159 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

(III) AGE

The information set forth under the headings ‘Board of Directors’ and ‘Unilever Leadership Executive (ULE)’ on pages 4058 and 4159 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

(IV) FAMILY RELATIONSHIP

The information set forth under the heading ‘Independence and Conflicts’ (third paragraph) on page 45There are no family relationships between any of our Executive Directors, members of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2013 furnished separately on 7 March 2014 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.ULE or Non-Executive Directors.

(V) OTHER ARRANGEMENTS

The information set forthNone of our Non-Executive Directors, Executive Directors or other key management personnel are elected or appointed under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2013 furnished separately on 7 March 2014 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:any arrangement or understanding with any major shareholder, customer, supplier or otherwise.

‘Independence and Conflicts’ (second and third paragraphs) on page 45.

B. COMPENSATION

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

Remuneration policy for new hires’Balance Sheet’ on page 69;37;
‘Annual Remuneration policy descriptionReport’ on pages 6269 to 72;
‘Elements of remuneration’ on pages 79 and 80;
‘Single Figure of Remuneration and Implementation of the Remuneration Policy in 2013 for Executive Directors’ on pages 73 to 79;
‘Single Figure of Remuneration in 2013 for Non-Executive Directors (Audited)’ on page 81;
‘Note 4C Share-based compensation plans’ on pages 104 and 105;83;
‘Note 4A Staff and management costs – Keykey management compensation’ on page 99; and
‘Note 4B Pensions and similar obligations’ on pages 99 to 104.104; and
‘Note 4C Share-based compensation plans’ on pages 104 and 105.

C. BOARD PRACTICES

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

‘Board of Directors’ and ‘Unilever Leadership Executive (ULE)’ on pages 4058 and 41;59;
‘Appointment’ on page 46;
‘Appointment and reappointment of Directors’ on page 43;
‘Executive Directors’ on page 42;pages 64 and 65;
‘Non-Executive Directors’ letters of appointment’ on page 42;80;
‘Boards’ on page 45;
‘Board Committees’ on page 45;
‘Report of the Audit Committee’ on pages 53 to 55;60 and 61; and
‘Directors’ Remuneration Report’ on pages 6066 to 83.

Unilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 2015Form 20-F                11


ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEESCONTINUED

SERVICE CONTRACTS

POLICY IN RELATION TO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SERVICE CONTRACTS AND PAYMENTS IN THE EVENT OF LOSS OF OFFICE

Not applicable.

POLICY IN RELATION TO EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SERVICE CONTRACTS AND PAYMENTS IN THE EVENT OF LOSS OF OFFICE

PROVISION

CURRENT SERVICE CONTRACTS

NOTICE PERIOD

•    12 months’ notice from Unilever;

•    6 months’ notice from the Executive Director.

This is in line with both the practice of many comparable companies and the entitlement of other senior executives in Unilever. The intention is that the notice period for any new Executive Directors would reflect the above policy.

EXPIRY DATE

•    Starting dates of the service contracts:

CEO: 1 October 2008 (signed on 7 October 2008);

CFO: 1 February 2010 (signed on 19 March 2010). Jean-Marc Huët resigned as CFO on 18 May 2015, with effect from 1 October 2015. The new CFO, Graeme Pitkethly, started his service contract on 1 October 2015 (signed on 16 December 2015). He will be proposed for election as Executive Director at the 2016 AGMs.

•    Both service contracts shall end upon termination.

•    The service agreements are available to shareholders to view at the AGMs or on request from the Company Secretary.

TERMINATION

PAYMENTS

•    A payment in lieu of notice can be made of no more than one year’s base salary, fixed allowance and other benefits unless the Boards, at the proposal of the Compensation Committee (the Committee), find this manifestly unreasonable given the circumstances or unless dictated by applicable law.

•    If applicable, the Executive Director shall be credited with 12 months’ service for the purposes of any pension schemes based on length of service.

OTHER ELEMENTS    

•    Executive Directors may, at the discretion of the Boards, remain eligible to receive an annual bonus for the financial year in which they cease employment. Such annual bonus will be determined by the Committee taking into account time in employment and performance.

•    Treatment of share awards as set out below.

•    All-employee share arrangements will be treated in accordance with HMRC-approved terms.

•    Other payments, such as legal or other professional fees, repatriation or relocation costs and/or outplacement fees, may be paid if it is considered appropriate.

LEAVER PROVISIONS IN PLAN RULES

‘GOOD LEAVERS’ AS

DETERMINED BY THE

COMMITTEE IN ACCORDANCE

WITH THE PLAN RULES*

LEAVERS IN

OTHER CIRCUMSTANCES*

CHANGE OF CONTROL

Such circumstances include (but may not be limited to) a takeover or a merger of the Group.

INVESTMENT

SHARES (MCIP)

•    Investment shares are transferred in full upon termination (and are transferred to the personal representative of the Executive Director in the event of his or her death).

•    Investment shares are transferred in full upon termination.

•    Investment shares are transferred in full at the time of the change of control.

•    Alternatively, participants may be required to exchange the investment shares for equivalent shares in the acquiring company in the event of a reorganisation of the Group.

MATCHING

SHARES (MCIP)

AND

PERFORMANCE    

SHARES (GSIP)

•    Awards will normally vest following the end of the original performance period, taking into account performance and pro-rated for time in employment (unless the Boards on the proposal of the Committee determine otherwise).

•    Alternatively, the Boards may determine that awards shall vest upon termination based on performance at that time and pro-rated for time in employment (unless the Boards on the proposal of the Committee determine otherwise).

•    Awards will normally lapse upon termination.

•    In accordance with Dutch law, matching shares and performance shares are shares that are obtained as part of the Executive Director’s remuneration. Therefore, their value is frozen for a period of four weeks before an announcement of a public offer and four weeks after the conclusion of a public offer. Any increase in value in this period has to be reclaimed by Unilever from the Executive Director upon retirement or sale of these shares, if at that time the value of the shares is higher than the value four weeks before the announcement of the public offer.

•    Awards will vest based on performance at the time of the change of control and the Boards, at the proposal of the Committee, have the discretion to pro-rate for time.

•    Alternatively, participants may be required to exchange the awards for equivalent awards over shares in the acquiring company in the event of a reorganisation of the Group.

*An Executive Director will usually be treated as a good leaver if he or she leaves due to death, ill-health, injury or disability, retirement with Unilever’s agreement or redundancy. The Boards may decide to treat an Executive Director who leaves in other circumstances as a good leaver. An Executive Director will not be treated as a good leaver if he or she chooses to leave for another job elsewhere, if he or she is summarily dismissed or leaves because of concerns about performance. In deciding whether or not to treat an Executive Director as a good leaver, the Boards will have regard to his or her performance in the role.

12                Form 20-FUnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 2015


ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEESCONTINUED

If Unilever is affected by a demerger, special distribution or other transaction which may affect the value of awards, the Committee may allow matching shares under the MCIP and performance shares under the GSIP to vest early over such number of shares as it shall determine (to the extent that any performance conditions have been met) and may be pro-rated to reflect the acceleration of vesting at the Committee’s discretion.

COMPENSATION COMMITTEE

The Committee is concerned with the remuneration of the Executive and Non-Executive Directors and the tier of management directly below the Boards. It also has responsibility for the cash and executive and all employee share-based incentive plans, the Remuneration Policy and performance evaluation of the Unilever Leadership Executive and senior corporate executives.

D. EMPLOYEES

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2013 furnished separately on 7 March 2014 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

’Noteheading ‘Note 4A Staff and management costs – Average number of employees during the year’ on page 99.
of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2015 furnished separately on 23 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

The average number of employees during 20132015 included 8,7446,706 seasonal and 25,76422,893 plantation workers. We believe our relationship with our employees and any labour unions of which they may be part is satisfactory in all material respects.

E. SHARE OWNERSHIP

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

‘Single Figurefigure of Remunerationremuneration and Implementationimplementation of the Remuneration Policy in 20132015 for Executive Directors’Directors (Audited)’ on page 71;
‘Other implementation information for 2015’ on pages 7375 and 76;
‘Information in relation to 79;
‘Elements of Remuneration’outstanding share incentive awards’ on pages 7976 and 80;77;
‘Single Figurefigure of Remunerationremuneration in 20132015 for Non-Executive Directors (Audited)’ on page 81;79;
‘Non-Executive Directors’ interests in shares (Audited)’ on page 80; and
‘Note 4C Share-based compensation plans’ on pages 104 and 105.

GLOBAL EMPLOYEE SHARE PLANS (SHARES)

In November 2014, Unilever’s new global employee plan ‘SHARES’ was launched in 17 countries. SHARES gives eligible Unilever employees below senior management level the opportunity to invest between25 and200 per month from their net salary in Unilever shares. For every three shares our employees buy (Investment Shares), Unilever will give them one free Matching Share, which will vest if employees hold their Investment Shares for at least three years. The Matching Shares are not subject to any performance conditions. In 2015, SHARES was rolled out globally and is now offered in more than 100 countries. Executive Directors are not eligible to participate in SHARES. As of 15 February 2016, awards for 51,924 NV and 52,210 PLC shares were outstanding under SHARES.

NORTH AMERICAN SHARE PLANS

Unilever also maintains share plans for its North American employees that are governed by an umbrella plan referred to as the Unilever North America Omnibus Equity Compensation Plan. These plans are the North American equivalents of the GSIP, MCIP and SHARES plans. The rules governing these share plans are materially the same as the rules governing the GSIP, MCIP and SHARES plans, respectively. However, the plans contain non-competition and non-solicitation covenants and they are subject to US and Canadian employment and tax laws. The plans are administered by the North America Compensation Committee of Unilever United States Inc. and they are governed by New York law.

The foregoing description of the Unilever North America Omnibus Equity Compensation Plan does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Unilever North America Omnibus Equity Compensation Plan, including all amendments thereto, filed as Exhibit 99.1 to the Form S-8 (File No. 333-185299) filed with the SEC on 6 December 2012, which is incorporated herein by reference.

UnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 2013Form 20-F                13


ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

A. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

Margarine Union (1930) Limited: Conversion Rights’ and ‘Foundation Unilever N.V. Trust office’ on pages 4647 and 47;48;
‘About Unilever’ on page 45; and
Analysis of shareholding’Our shareholders’ on pages 5148 to 50.

The voting rights of the significant shareholders of NV and 52.

PLC are the same as for other holders of the class of share held by such significant shareholder.

The principal trading markets upon which Unilever shares are listed are Euronext Amsterdam for NV ordinary and 6% and 7% cumulative preference shares and the depositary receipts of these NV ordinary and 7% cumulative preference shares, and the London Stock Exchange for PLC ordinary shares. NV ordinary shares mainly trade in the form of depositary receipts for shares.

In the United States, NV New York Registry Shares and PLC American Depositary Receipts are traded on the New York Stock Exchange. Citibank, N.A.Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas (Deutsche Bank) acts for NV and PLC as issuer, transfer agent and, in respect of the PLC American Depositary Receipts, depositary.

There have not been any significant trading suspensionsAt 15 February 2016 (the latest practicable date for inclusion in the past three years.

At 3 March 2014this report), there were 5,2184,827 registered holders of NV New York Registry Shares and 1,010980 registered holders of PLC American Depositary Receipts in the United States. We estimate that approximately 12%10% of NV’s ordinary shares (including shares underlying NV New York Registry shares) were held in the United States (approximately 12% in 2014) and approximately 13% of PLC’s ordinary shares (including shares underlying PLC American Depositary Receipts) were held in the United States (approximately 13% in 2012), while most holders of PLC ordinary shares are registered in the United Kingdom – approximately 98% in 2013 and in 2012.2014).

NV and PLC are separate companies with separate stock exchange listings and different shareholders. Shareholders cannot convert or exchange the shares of one for shares of the other and the relative share prices on the various markets can, and do, fluctuate. Each NV ordinary share represents the same underlying economic interest in the Unilever Group as each PLC ordinary share (save for exchange rate fluctuations).

If you are a shareholder of NV, you have an interest in a Dutch legal entity, your dividends will be paid in euros (converted into US dollars if you have shares registered in the United States) and you may be subject to tax in the Netherlands. If you are a shareholder of PLC, your interest is in a UK legal entity, your dividends will be paid in sterling (converted into US dollars if you have American Depositary Receipts) and you may be subject to UK tax.

Nevertheless, the Equalisation Agreement means that as a shareholder of either company you effectively have an interest in the whole of Unilever. YouOn a going concern basis, you have largely equal rights over our combined net profit and capital reserves as shown in the consolidated accounts.

To Unilever’s knowledge, the Unilever Group is not owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by another corporation, any foreign government or by any other legal or natural person, severally or jointly. The information set forth underGroup is not aware of any arrangements the heading ‘Equalisation Agreement’ on page 47operation of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2013 furnished separately on 7 March 2014 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.which may at any subsequent date result in a change of control of Unilever.

Unilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 2015Form 20-F                13


ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONSCONTINUED

B. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

The information set forth under the heading ‘Note 23 Related party transactions’ on page 133134 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

Transactions with related parties are conducted in accordance with agreed transfer pricing policies and include sales to joint ventures and associates. Other than those disclosed in the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts (and incorporated herein as above), there were no related party transactions that were material to the Group or to the related parties concerned that are required to be reported in 2013 or the two preceding years.2015 up to 15 February 2015 (the latest practicable date for inclusion in this report).

C. INTEREST OF EXPERTS AND COUNSEL

Not applicable.

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

A. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Please refer also to Item 18 ‘Financial Statements’statements’ on pagepages 22 to 28 of this report.

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

‘Financial statements’ on page 8584 and pages 90 to 135;147;
‘Legal proceedings’ on page 131; and
‘Financial calendar’ on page 146.44.

Also see ‘Dividend record’ on page 4 of this report.

B. SIGNIFICANT CHANGES

The information set forth in ‘Note 2526 Events after the balance sheet date’ on page 133135 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

 

14                Form 20-FUnilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013


ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND LISTING

A. OFFER AND LISTING DETAILS

Please refer to information given on page 1413 under Item 7A’ Major7A ‘Major shareholders’.

SHARE PRICES AT 31 DECEMBER 20132015

The share prices of the ordinary shares at the end of the year were as follows:

 

NV per0.16 ordinary share in Amsterdam

  29.2840.11    

NV per0.16 ordinary share in New York

   US $40.23$43.32      

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in London

   £24.8229.26      

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in New York

   US $41.20$43.12      

MONTHLY HIGH AND LOW PRICES FOR THE MOST RECENT SIX MONTHS

 

         September
2013
   October
2013
   November
2013
   December
2013
   January
2014
   February
2014
 

NV per0.16 ordinary share in Amsterdam (in)

   High       30.09     29.24     29.39     29.28     29.94     28.92  
    Low       28.25     27.50     28.64     27.72     27.71     27.16  

NV per0.16 ordinary share in New York (in US $)

   High       40.49     40.28     39.65     40.25     40.55     39.57  
    Low       37.28     37.27     38.38     38.26     37.34     36.72  

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in London (in £)

   High       25.88     25.48     25.35     24.82     25.05     24.74  
    Low       24.30     23.19     24.59     23.68     23.39     23.06  

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in New York (in US $)

   High       41.47     41.06     40.77     41.20     41.71     41.34  
    Low       38.06     37.67     39.65     39.09     38.61     37.85  
       August   September   October   November   December   January   February     
         2015   2015   2015   2015   2015   2016   2016     

NV per0.16 ordinary share in

   High     42.32     35.91     41.63     42.48     41.91     40.89     40.88(a)      

  Amsterdam (in)

   Low     34.23     33.87     35.82     39.89     38.19     37.06     36.69(a)      

NV per0.16 ordinary share in New York

   High     46.51     40.69     46.04     45.40     44.23     44.41     44.49(b)      

  (in US $)

   Low     39.58     38.43     40.25     42.67     42.33     40.27     41.84(b)      

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in London

   High     29.66     26.86     29.60     28.81     29.41     30.85     30.78(a)      

  (in £)

   Low     25.24     25.38     26.82     27.54     27.20     27.63     29.05(a)      

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in New York

   High     46.07     41.10     45.72     44.60     43.96     44.27     44.42(b)      

  (in US $)

   Low     39.61     39.08     40.84     42.00     41.85     40.09     42.35(b)      

(a)Through 15 February 2016 (the latest practicable date for inclusion in this report).
(b)Through 12 February 2016 (the latest available data for inclusion in this report).

QUARTERLY HIGH AND LOW PRICES FOR 20132015 AND 20122014

 

              

1st

Quarter

2013

   

2nd

Quarter

2013

   

3rd

Quarter

2013

   

4th

Quarter

2013

 

NV per0.16 ordinary share in Amsterdam (in)

     High       31.96     32.89     31.84     29.39  
         Low       28.58     28.82     28.25     27.50  

NV per0.16 ordinary share in New York (in US $)

     High       41.19     42.78     41.58     40.28  
         Low       37.95     37.94     37.28     37.27  

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in London (in £)

     High       27.84     28.85     28.20     25.48  
         Low       23.78     25.16     24.30     23.19  

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in New York (in US $)

     High       42.24     43.54     42.67     41.20  
         Low       38.38     39.00     38.06     37.67  
              

1st

Quarter

2012

   

2nd

Quarter

2012

   

3rd

Quarter

2012

   

4th

Quarter

2012

 

NV per0.16 ordinary share in Amsterdam (in)

     High       27.11     26.39     28.79     29.50  
         Low       24.78     24.56     26.42     27.53  

NV per0.16 ordinary share in New York (in US $)

     High       34.92     35.00     36.35     38.75  
         Low       32.09     30.79     32.11     35.58  

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in London (in £)

     High       21.89     21.44     23.34     24.29  
         Low       19.94     20.05     21.27     22.62  

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in New York (in US $)

     High       34.02     34.74     37.29     39.37  
         Low       31.50     31.04     32.88     36.11  

 

ANNUAL HIGH AND LOW PRICES

 

            
         2013   2012   2011   2010   2009 

NV per0.16 ordinary share in Amsterdam (in)

   High       32.89     29.50     26.58     24.11     22.88  
    Low       27.50     24.56     21.00     20.68     13.59  

NV per0.16 ordinary share in New York (in US $)

   High       42.78     38.75     35.06     33.10     32.80  
    Low       37.27     30.79     29.07     26.02     17.04  

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in London (in £)

   High       28.85     24.29     21.73     20.09     20.15  
    Low       23.19     19.94     17.93     16.62     12.30  

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in New York (in US $)

   High       43.54     39.37     34.30     32.41     32.19  
    Low       37.67     31.04     28.65     25.74     17.04  

       1st   2nd   3rd   4th     
       Quarter   Quarter   Quarter   Quarter     
         2015   2015   2015   2015     

NV per0.16 ordinary share in Amsterdam (in)

   High     40.52     41.88     42.32     42.48      
    Low     31.55     36.86     33.87     35.82      

NV per0.16 ordinary share in New York (in US $)

   High     43.94     44.98     46.51     46.04      
    Low     37.64     41.40     38.43     40.25      

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in London (in £)

   High     29.52     30.15     29.66     29.60      
    Low     25.73     27.30     25.24     26.82      

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in New York (in US $)

   High     44.67     45.08     46.07     45.72      
    Low     39.03     41.83     39.08     40.84      

 

14                Form 20-FUnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 2013Form 20-F                152015


ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND LISTINGCONTINUED

 

           1st   2nd   3rd   4th 
           Quarter   Quarter   Quarter   Quarter 
              2014   2014   2014   2014 

NV per0.16 ordinary share in Amsterdam (in)

     High     29.96     32.59     32.54     33.49  
         Low     27.16     29.70     30.05     28.96  

NV per0.16 ordinary share in New York (in US $)

     High     41.12     44.31     44.08     41.02  
         Low     36.72     40.57     39.34     37.14  

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in London (in £)

     High     25.61     27.26     27.29     27.29  
         Low     23.06     25.37     25.42     24.06  

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in New York (in US $)

     High     42.78     45.85     45.85     42.42  
         Low     37.85     42.00     41.71     38.97  
ANNUAL HIGH AND LOW PRICES            
         2015   2014   2013   2012   2011 

NV per0.16 ordinary share in Amsterdam (in)

   High     42.48     33.49     32.89     29.50     26.58  
    Low     31.55     27.16     27.50     24.56     21.00  

NV per0.16 ordinary share in New York (in US $)

   High     46.51     44.31     42.78     38.75     35.06  
    Low     37.64     36.72     37.27     30.79     29.07  

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in London (in £)

   High     30.15     27.29     28.85     24.29     21.73  
    Low     25.24     23.06     23.19     19.94     17.93  

PLC per 31/9p ordinary share in New York (in US $)

   High     46.07     45.85     43.54     39.37     34.30  
    Low     39.03     37.85     37.67     31.04     28.65  

There have not been any significant suspensions in the past three years.

B. PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION

Not applicable.

C. MARKETS

This information is set forth under the heading The‘The Unilever Group’ on page 1 of this report.

D. SELLING SHAREHOLDERS

Not applicable.

E. DILUTION

Not applicable.

F. EXPENSES OF THE ISSUE

Not applicable.

ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

A. SHARE CAPITAL

Not applicable.

B. ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.reference:

‘About Unilever�� on page 45;
‘Corporate governance’ on pages 4245 to 52;
‘Appointment and reappointment of Directors’ on pages 64 and 65;
‘Note 15A Share Capital’capital’ on page 116; and
‘Minimum shareholding requirement’requirement and Executive Director share interests (Unaudited)’ on page 69.76.

NV’s Articles of Association contain, among other things, the objects clause, which sets out the scope of activities that NV is authorised to undertake. They are drafted to give a wide scope and provide that the primary objectives are: to carry on business as a holding company, to manage any companies in which it has an interest and to operate and carry into effect the Equalisation Agreement. At the 2010 PLC AGM, the shareholders agreed that the objects clause be removed from PLC’s Articles of Association so that there are no restrictions on its objects.

DIRECTORS’ BORROWING POWERS

The borrowing powers of NV Directors on behalf of NV are not limited by NV’s Articles of Association. PLC Directors have the power to borrow on behalf of PLC up to three times the PLC proportion of the adjusted capital and reserves of the Unilever Group, as defined in PLC’s Articles of Association, without the approval of shareholders (by way of an ordinary resolution).

ALLOCATION OF PROFITS

Under NV’s Articles of Association, available profits are distributed first to 7% and 6% cumulative preference shareholders by a dividend of 7% and 6%, respectively, calculated on the basis of the original nominal value of 1,000 Dutch guilders converted to euros at the official conversion rate. The remaining profits are distributed to ordinary shareholders in proportion to the nominal value of their holdings.

Distributable profits of PLC are paid first at the rate of 5% per year on the paid-up nominal capital of 31/9p of the ordinary shares, in a further such dividend and then at the rate of 6% per year on the paid-up nominal capital of the deferred stock of £100,000. The surplus is paid by way of a dividend on the ordinary shares.

LAPSE OF DISTRIBUTIONS

The right to cash and the proceeds of share distributions by NV lapses five and 20 years, respectively, after the first day the distribution was obtainable. Unclaimed amounts revert to NV. Any PLC dividend unclaimed after 12 years from the date of the declaration of the dividend reverts to PLC.

Unilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 2015Form 20-F                15


ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCONTINUED

REDEMPTION PROVISIONS AND CAPITAL CALL

Under Dutch law, NV may only redeem treasury shares (including shares underlying depositary receipts) or shares whose terms permit redemption. Outstanding PLC ordinary shares and deferred shares cannot be redeemed. NV and PLC may make capital calls on money unpaid on shares and not payable on a fixed date. NV and PLC only issue fully paid shares.

MODIFICATION OF RIGHTS

Modifications to NV’s or PLC’s Articles of Association must be approved by a general meeting of shareholders. Any modification that prejudices the rights of 7% or 6% cumulative preference shareholders of NV must be approved by three quarters of votes cast (excluding treasury shares) at a meeting of affected holders.

Modifications that prejudicially affect the rights and privileges of a class of PLC shareholders require the written consent of three quarters of the affected holders (excluding treasury shares) or a special resolution passed at a general meeting of the class at which at least two persons holding or representing at least one third of the paid-up capital (excluding treasury shares) must be present. Every shareholder is entitled to one vote per share held on a poll and may demand a poll vote. At any adjourned general meeting, present affected class holders may establish a quorum.

SINKING FUND AND CHANGE IN CONTROL

Not applicable.

Please also refer to ‘The Unilever Group’ on page 1 of this report.

C. MATERIAL CONTRACTS

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

Note 21 Acquisition and disposals’About Unilever’ on pages 131 and 132;page 45; and
Our Foundation Agreements’Material Contracts’ on page 47.50’.

The descriptions of the foundation agreements set forth in the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2015 do not purport to be complete and are qualified in their entirety by reference to the Equalisation Agreement between Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC, the Deed of Mutual Covenants and the Agreement for Mutual Guarantees of Borrowing, including all amendments thereto, filed as Exhibits 4.1(a), 4.1(b) and 4.1(c), respectively, to this report, which are incorporated herein by reference.

D. EXCHANGE CONTROLS

Under the Dutch External Financial Relations Act of 25 March 1994, the Minister of Finance is authorised to issue regulations relating to financial transactions concerning the movement of capital to or from other countries with respect to direct investments, establishment, the performing of financial services, the admission of negotiable instruments or goods with respect to which regulations have been issued under the Import and Export Act in the interest of the international legal system or an arrangement relevant thereto. These regulations may contain a prohibition to perform any of the actions indicated in those regulations without a licence. To date, no regulations of this type, have been issued which are applicable to Unilever N.V.NV.

Other than certain economic sanctions which may be in place from time to time, there are currently no UK laws, decrees or regulations restricting the import or export of capital or affecting the remittance of dividends or other payments to holders of the company’s shares who are non-residents of the UK. Similarly, other than certain economic sanctions which may be in force from time to time, there are no limitations relating only to non-residents of the UK under English law or the company’s Articles of Association on the right to be a holder of, and to vote in respect of, the company’s shares.

E. TAXATION

TAXATION FOR US PERSONS HOLDING SHARES IN NV

The following notes are provided for guidance. US persons should consult their local tax advisers, particularly in connection with potential liability to pay US taxes on disposal, lifetime gift or bequest of their shares. A US person is a US individual citizen or resident, a corporation organised under the laws of the United States, or any other legal person subject to United States Federal Income Tax on its worldwide income.

TAXATION ON DIVIDENDS IN THE NETHERLANDS

As of 1 January 2007, dividends paid by companies in the Netherlands are in principle subject to dividend withholding tax of 15%. Where a shareholder is entitled to the benefits of the current Income Tax Convention (‘the Convention’)(the Convention) concluded on 18 December 1992 between the United States and the Netherlands, when dividends are paid by NV to:

a corporation organised under the laws of the United States (or any territory of it) having no permanent establishment in the Netherlands of which such shares form a part of the business property; or
any other legal person subject to United States Federal income taxIncome Tax with respect to its worldwide income, having no permanent establishment in the Netherlands of which such shares form a part of the business property, these dividends qualify for a reduction of withholding tax on dividends in the Netherlands from 15% to 5%, if the beneficial owner is a company which directly holds at least 10% of the voting power of NV shares.

Where a United States person has a permanent establishment in the Netherlands, which has shares in NV forming part of its business property, dividends it receives on those shares are included in that establishment’s profit. They are subject to income tax or corporation tax in the Netherlands, as appropriate, and tax on dividends in the Netherlands will generally be applied at the full rate of 15% with, as appropriate, the possibility to claim a credit for that tax on dividends in the Netherlands against the income tax or corporation tax in the Netherlands. The net tax suffered may be treated as foreign income tax eligible for credit against shareholder’sshareholders’ United States income taxes.

The Convention provides, subject to certain conditions, for a complete exemption from, or refund of, Dutch dividend withholding tax if the beneficial owner is a qualified ‘Exempt Pension Trust’ as defined in Article 35 of the Convention or a qualified ‘Exempt Organisation’ as defined in Article 36 of the Convention. It is noted that, subject to certain conditions, foreign (non-Dutch) tax exempt entities may also be entitled to a full refund of any Dutch dividend withholding tax suffered based on specific provisions in the Dividend Tax Act in the Netherlands. This tax refund opportunity under Dutch domestic tax law already applied to European Union and European Economic Area entities as of 1 January 2007 and has been extended as of 1 January 2012 to all foreign tax exempt entities including, if appropriate, United States tax exempt entities.

Under the Convention, qualifying United States organisations that are generally exempt from United States taxes and that are constituted and operated exclusively to administer or provide pension, retirement or other employee benefits may be exempt at source from withholding tax on dividends received from a Dutch corporation. A Competent Authority Agreement between the US and Dutch Tax Authoritiestax authorities on 6 August 2007, published in the US as Announcement 2007-75, 2007-2 Cumulative Bulletin 540, as amended by a Competent Authority Agreement published in the United States as Announcement 2010-26, 2010-1 Cumulative Bulletin 604, describes the eligibility of these US organisations for benefits under the Convention and procedures for claiming these benefits.

16                Form 20-FUnilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013


ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

CONTINUED

Under the Convention, a United States trust, company or organisation that is operated exclusively for religious, charitable, scientific, educational or public purposes is subject to an initial 15% withholding tax rate. Such an exempt organisation may be entitled to reclaim from tax authorities in the Netherlands a refund of the Dutch dividend tax, if and to the extent that it is exempt from

16                Form 20-FUnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 2015


ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCONTINUED

United States Federal Income Tax and it would be exempt from tax in the Netherlands if it were organised and carried on all its activities there.

If you are an NV shareholder resident in any country other than the United States or the Netherlands, any exemption from, or reduction or refund of, dividend withholding tax in the Netherlands may be governed by specific provisions in Dutch tax law, the ‘Tax Regulation for the Kingdom of the Netherlands’, or by the tax convention or any other agreement for the avoidance of double taxation, if any, between the Netherlands and your country of residence.

UNITED STATES TAXATION ON DIVIDENDS

If you are a United States person, the dividend (including the withheld amount) up to the amount of NV earnings and profits for United States Federal Income Tax purposes will be ordinary dividend income. Dividends received by an individual will be taxed at a maximum rate of 15% or 20%, depending on the income level of the individual, provided the individual has held the shares for more than 60 days during the 121-day period beginning 60 days before the ex-dividend date, that NV is a qualified foreign corporation and that certain other conditions are satisfied. NV is a qualified foreign corporation for this purpose. In addition, an additional tax of 3.8% will apply to dividends and other investment income received by individuals with incomes exceeding certain thresholds. The dividends are not eligible for the dividends received deduction allowed to corporations.

For US foreign tax credit purposes, the dividend is foreign source income, and withholding tax in the Netherlands is a foreign income tax that is eligible for credit against the shareholder’s United States income taxes. However, the rules governing the US foreign tax credit are complex, and additional limitations on the credit apply to individuals receiving dividends eligible for the maximum tax rate on dividends described above.

Any portion of the dividend that exceeds NV’s United States earnings and profits is subject to different rules. This portion is a tax freetax-free return of capital to the extent of your basis in NV’s shares, and thereafter is treated as a gain on a disposition of the shares.

Under a provision of the Dividend Tax Act in the Netherlands and provided certain conditions are satisfied, NV is entitled to a credit (up to a maximum of 3% of the gross dividend from which dividend tax is withheld) against the amount of dividend tax withheld before remittance to tax authorities in the Netherlands. The United States tax authority may take the position that withholding tax in the Netherlands eligible for credit should be limited accordingly.

DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS FOR US INDIVIDUAL HOLDERS

US individuals that hold certain specified foreign financial assets, including stock in a foreign corporation, with values in excess of certain thresholds are required to file Form 8938 with their United States Federal Income Tax return. Such Form requires disclosure of information concerning such foreign assets, including the value of the assets. Failure to file the form when required is subject to penalties. An exemption from reporting applies to foreign assets held through a US financial institution, generally including a non-US branch or subsidiary of a US institution and a US branch of a non-US institution. Investors are encouraged to consult with their own tax advisors regarding the possible application of this disclosure requirement to their investment in the shares.

TAXATION ON CAPITAL GAINS IN THE NETHERLANDS

Under the Convention, if you are a United States person and you have capital gains on the sale of shares of a Dutch company, these are generally not subject to taxation by the Netherlands. An exception to this rule generally applies if you have a permanent establishment in the Netherlands and the capital gain is derived from the sale of shares which form part of that permanent establishment’s business property.

SUCCESSION DUTY AND GIFT TAXES IN THE NETHERLANDS

Under the Estate and Inheritance Tax Convention between the United States and the Netherlands of 15 July 1969, individual US persons who are not Dutch citizens who have shares will generally not be subject to succession duty in the Netherlands on the individual’s death, unless the shares are part of the business property of a permanent establishment situated in the Netherlands.

A gift of shares of a Dutch company by a person who is not a resident or a deemed resident of the Netherlands is generally not subject to gift tax in the Netherlands. A non-resident Netherlands citizen, however, is still treated as a resident of the Netherlands for gift tax purposes for ten years and any other non-resident person for one year after leaving the Netherlands.

TAXATION FOR US PERSONS HOLDING SHARES OR ADSs IN PLC

The following notes are provided for guidance. US persons should consult their local tax advisers, particularly in connection with potential liability to pay US taxes on disposal, lifetime gift or bequest of their shares.shares or American Depositary Shares (ADSs). A US person is a US individual citizen or resident, a corporation organised under the laws of the United States, or any other legal person subject to United States Federal Income Tax on its worldwide income.

UNITED KINGDOM TAXATION ON DIVIDENDS

Under United Kingdom law, income tax is not withheld from dividends paid by United Kingdom companies. Shareholders, whether resident in the United Kingdom or not, receive the full amount of the dividend actually declared.

UNITED STATES TAXATION ON DIVIDENDS

If you are a US person, the dividend up to the amount of PLC’s earnings and profits for United States Federal Income Tax purposes will be ordinary dividend income. Dividends received by an individual will be taxed at a maximum rate of 15% or 20%, depending on the income level of the individual, provided the individual has held the shares or ADSs for more than 60 days during the 121-day period beginning 60 days before the ex-dividend date, that PLC is a qualified foreign corporation and certain other conditions are satisfied. PLC is a qualified foreign corporation for this purpose. In addition, an additional tax of 3.8% will apply to dividends and other investment income received by individuals with incomes exceeding certain thresholds. The dividend is not eligible for the dividends received deduction allowable to corporations. The dividend is foreign source income for US foreign tax credit purposes.

Any portion of the dividend that exceeds PLC’s United States earnings and profits is subject to different rules. This portion is a tax freetax-free return of capital to the extent of your basis in PLC’s shares or ADSs, and thereafter is treated as a gain on a disposition of the shares.shares or ADSs.

DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS FOR US INDIVIDUAL HOLDERS

US individuals that hold certain specified foreign financial assets, including stock in a foreign corporation, with values in excess of certain thresholds are required to file Form 8938 with their United States Federal Income Tax return. Such Form requires disclosure of information concerning such foreign assets, including the value of the assets. Failure to file the form when required is subject to penalties. An exemption from reporting applies to foreign assets held through a US financial institution, generally including a non-US branch or subsidiary of a US institution and a US branch of a non-US institution. Investors are encouraged to consult with their own tax advisors regarding the possible application of this disclosure requirement to their investment in the shares.shares or ADSs.

 

 

Unilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 20132015 Form 20-F                17


ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

CONTINUED

UK TAXATION ON CAPITAL GAINS

Under United Kingdom law, when you selldispose of shares you may be liable to pay capital gains tax.United Kingdom tax in respect of any gain accruing on the disposal. However, if you are either:

an individual who is neither resident nor ordinarilynot resident in the United Kingdom;Kingdom for the year in question; or
a company which is not resident in the United Kingdom when the gain accrues

you will generally not be liable to United Kingdom tax on any capitaIcapital gains made on disposal of your shares.

Two exceptions are: if the shares are held in connection with a trade or business which is conducted in the United Kingdom through a branch, agency or an agency; andpermanent establishment; or if the shares are held by an individual who hasbecomes resident in the UK having left the UK for a period of non-residence of five years or less than five tax years having beenand who was resident for at least four of the seven tax years prior to leaving the UK.

UK INHERITANCE TAX

Under the current estate and gift tax convention between the United States and the United Kingdom, ordinary shares held by an individual shareholder who is:

domiciled for the purposes of the convention in the United States; and
is not for the purposes of the convention a national of the United Kingdom

will generally not be subject to United Kingdom inheritance tax:

on the individual’s death; or
on a gift of the shares during the individual’s lifetime.

TheAn exception is if the shares are part of the business property of a permanent establishment of the individual in the United Kingdom or, in the case of a shareholder who performs independent personal services, pertain to a fixed base situated in the United Kingdom.

F. DIVIDENDS AND PAYING AGENTS

Not applicable.

G. STATEMENT BY EXPERTS

Not applicable.

H. DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY

The information set forth under the headings ‘Contact details’ and ‘Publications’ on pages 146 and 147page 44 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

UNILEVER ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 20-F 20132015

Filed with the SEC on the SEC’s website. Printed copies are available, free of charge, upon request to Unilever PLC, Investor Relations Department, Unilever House,department, 100 Victoria Embankment, London, EC4Y 0DY United Kingdom.

DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY IN THE UNITED STATES

Unilever files and furnishes reports and information with the United States SEC. Such reports and information can be inspected and copied at the SEC’s public reference facilities in Washington DC, Chicago and New York. Certain of our reports and other information that we file or furnish to the SEC are also available to the public over the internet on the SEC’s website.

I. SUBSIDIARY INFORMATION

Not applicable.

ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Please refer also to Item 3D ‘Risk Factors’ of this report.

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132014 furnished separately on 76 March 20142015 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

‘Outlook’ on page 34;
‘Note 4B Pensions and similar obligations’ on pages 99 to 104;
‘Note 13 Trade and other current receivables’ on pages 113  to
 and 114;
‘Note 14 Trade payables and other liabilities’ on page 114;
‘Note 15 CapitaICapital and funding’ on pages 115 andto 116;
‘Note 16 Treasury risk management’ on pages 120 to 125;
‘Note 17 Investment and return’ on pages 125 andto 126; and
‘Note 18 Financial instruments fair value risk’ on pages 127
 to 129.

Please also refer to ‘Outlook’ within Item 5D of this report.

ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

The Unilever Group has appointed Citibank, N.A. (‘Citibank’)Deutsche Bank serves as both itsthe transfer agent and registrar pursuant to the NV New York Registered Share programProgram and the depositary (Depositary) for Unilever N.V. and as its depositary pursuant to itsPLC’s American Depositary Receipt program for Unilever PLC. Any fee arrangement with Citibank will therefore cover both programs.Program.

A. DESCRIPTION OF DEBT SECURITIES

Not applicable.

B. DESCRIPTION OF WARRANTS AND RIGHTS

Not applicable.

C. DESCRIPTION OF OTHER SECURITIES

Not applicable.

D.1 NAME OF DEPOSITARY AND ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE

Not applicable.

D.2 TITLE OF ADRS AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF PROVISIONS

Not applicable.

D.3 TRANSFER AGENT FEES AND CHARGES FOR UNILEVER N.V.NV

Although itemsItems 12.D.3 and 12.D.4 are not applicable to Unilever N.V. the following fees, charges and transfer agent payments are listed, as any fee arrangement with CitibankDeutsche Bank will cover both programs.

Under the terms of the Transfer Agent Agreement for the Unilever N.V. New York Registered Share program, a New York Registry Share (NYS)(NYRS) holder may have to pay the following service fees to the transfer agent:

Issuance of NYSs: UpNYRSs: up to US 5¢ per NYSNYRS issued.
Cancellation of NYSs: UpNYRSs: up to US 5¢ per NYSNYRS cancelled.

An NYSNYRS holder will also be responsible to pay certain fees and expenses incurred by the transfer agent and certain taxes and governmental charges such as:

Feesfees for the transfer and registration of Sharesshares charged by the registrar and transfer agent for the Sharesshares in the Netherlands (i.e.(ie upon deposit and withdrawal of Shares)shares);
Expensesexpenses incurred for converting foreign currency into US dollars;
Expensesexpenses for cable, telex and fax transmissions and for delivery of securities;
Taxestaxes and duties upon the transfer of securities (i.e.(ie when shares are deposited or withdrawn from deposit); and
Feesfees and expenses incurred in connection with the delivery or servicing of shares on deposit.

18                Form 20-FUnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 2015


ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIESCONTINUED

Transfer agent fees payable upon the issuance and cancellation of NYSsNYRSs are typically paid to the transfer agent by the brokers (on behalf of their clients) receiving the newly-issued NYSsNYRSs from the transfer agent and by the brokers (on behalf of their clients) delivering the NYSsNYRSs to the transfer agent for cancellation. The brokers in turn charge these transaction fees to their clients.

Note that the fees and charges an investor may be required to pay may vary over time and may be changed by us and by the Transfer Agent.transfer agent. Notice of any changes will be given to investors.

18                Form 20-FUnilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013


ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIESCONTINUED

D.3 DEPOSITARY FEES AND CHARGES FOR UNILEVER PLC

Under the terms of the Deposit Agreement for the Unilever PLC American Depositary Shares (ADSs), an ADS holder may have to pay the following service fees to the depositary bank:

Issuance of ADSs: Upup to US 5¢ per ADS issued.
Cancellation of ADSs: Upup to US 5¢ per ADS cancelled.
Processing of dividend and other cash distributions not made pursuant to a cancellation or withdrawal: up to US 5¢ per ADS held.

An ADS holder will also be responsible to payfor paying certain fees and expenses incurred by the depositary bank and certain taxes and governmental charges such as:

Feesfees for the transfer and registration of Sharesshares charged by the registrar and transfer agent for the Sharesshares in the United Kingdom (i.e.,(ie upon deposit and withdrawal of Shares)shares);
Expensesexpenses incurred for converting foreign currency into US dollars;
Expensesexpenses for cable, telex and fax transmissions and for delivery of securities;
Taxestaxes and duties upon the transfer of securities (ie when shares are deposited or withdrawn from deposit);
Feesfees and expenses incurred in connection with the delivery or servicing of shares on deposit; and
Feesfees incurred in connection with the distribution of dividends.

Depositary fees payable upon the issuance and cancellation of ADSs are typically paid to the depositary bank by the brokers (on behalf of their clients) receiving the newly-issued ADSs from the depositary bank and by the brokers (on behalf of their clients) delivering the ADSs to the depositary bank for cancellation. The brokers in turn charge these transaction fees to their clients.

Note that the fees and charges an investor may be required to pay may vary over time and may be changed by us and by the depositary bank. Notice of any changes will be given to investors.

D.4 TRANSFER AGENT PAYMENTS – FISCAL YEAR 20132015 FOR UNILEVER N.V.NV

In 2013, werelation to 2015, NV received $1,225,000.00 from Deutsche Bank, the following payments from Citibank, N.A., the Transfer Agenttransfer agent and Registrarregistrar for ourits New York Registered Share program:

US $

Reimbursement of listing fees (NYSE/NASDAQ)

251,964.00

Reimbursement of settlement infrastructure fees (including DTC feeds)

118,091.17

Reimbursement of proxy process expenses (printing, postage and distribution)

283,396.23

Tax reclaim services

33,474.47

Program-relatedprogram since 1 July 2014, including the reimbursement of listing fees (NYSE), reimbursement of settlement infrastructure fees (including DTC feeds), reimbursement of proxy process expenses (printing, postage and distribution), tax reclaim services and program-related expenses (that include expenses incurred from the requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)

663,074.13

INDIRECT PAYMENTS

As part of its service to Unilever N.V., Citibank, N.A. has agreed to waive fees for the standard costs associated with the administration of the ADR Program, associated operating expenses and investor relations advice estimated to total US $150,000.00.Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002).

D.4 DEPOSITARY PAYMENTS – FISCAL YEAR 20132015 FOR UNILEVER PLC

In 2013, werelation to 2015, PLC received $4,047,412.64 from Deutsche Bank, the following payments from Citibank, N.A., the Depositary Bankdepositary bank for ourits American Depositary Receipt Program:

US $

Reimbursement of listing fees (NYSE/NASDAQ)

180,486.00

Reimbursement of settlement infrastructure fees (including DTC feeds)

74,279.46

Reimbursement of proxy process expenses (printing, postage and distribution)

286,519.78

Program-related expenses (that include expenses incurred from the requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)

808,714.76

INDIRECT PAYMENTS

As partProgram since 1 July 2014, including processing of its service to Unilever PLC, Citibank, N.A. has agreed to waivecash distributions, reimbursement of listing fees for(NYSE), reimbursement of settlement infrastructure fees (including DTC feeds), reimbursement of proxy process expenses (printing, postage and distribution), dividend fees and program-related expenses (that include expenses incurred from the standard costs associated with the administrationrequirements of the ADR Program, associated operating expenses and investor relations advice estimated to total US $150,000.00.
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002).

ITEM 13. DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

A.DEFAULTSA. DEFAULTS

There has been no material default in the payment of principal, interest, a sinking or purchase fund instalmentsinstalment or any other material default relating to indebtedness of the Group.

B. DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

There have been no arrears in payment of dividends on, and material delinquency with respect to, any class of preferred stock of any significant subsidiary of the Group.

Unilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013Form 20-F                19


ITEM 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Not applicable.

ITEM 15. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

The information set forth under the headings ‘Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm’independent registered public accounting firm’ in Item 18 on page 22 of this report, and ‘Our Risk Appetiterisk appetite and Approachapproach to Risk Management’risk management’ on page 34, ‘Requirements – The53, ‘The United States’ on page 5052 and ‘Risk management and internal control arrangements’ on page 5461 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

In accordance with the requirements of Section 404 of the US Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the following report is provided by management in respect of the Group’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in rule 13a–15(f) or rule 15d–15(f) under the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934):

Unilever’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Group;
Unilever’s management has used the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) framework (1992)(2013) to evaluate the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. Management believes that the COSO framework (1992)(2013) is a suitable framework for its evaluation of our internal control over financial reporting because it is free from bias, permits reasonably consistent qualitative and quantitative measurements of internal controls, is sufficiently complete so that those relevant factors that would alter a conclusion about the effectiveness of internal controls are not omitted and is relevant to an evaluation of internal control over financial reporting;
Management has assessed the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of 31 December 2013,2015, and has concluded that such internal control over financial reporting is effective; and
PricewaterhouseCoopersKPMG LLP and PricewaterhouseCoopersKPMG Accountants N.V., who have audited the consolidated financial statements of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2013,2015, have also audited the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as at 31 December 20132015 and have issued an attestation report on internal control over financial reporting. For the Auditors’ report please refer to Item 18 on page 22 of this report.

ITEM 16. RESERVED

A.Not applicable.

Unilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 2015Form 20-F                19


ITEM 16A. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

The information set forth under the headingheadings ‘Independence and Conflicts’ and ‘Report of the Audit Committee’ on page 46 and pages 53 to 5560 and 61, respectively, of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

B.

ITEM 16B. CODE OF ETHICS

The information set forth under the following headings of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference:

‘Foundation and principles’ on pages 34 and 35; andpage 53;
Requirements – The United States’ on page 50.52; and
‘Code of Business Principles’ on page 62.

C.

ITEM 16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

The information set forth under the heading ‘Report of the Audit Committee’ on pages 53 to 5560 and 61 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

Following a competitive tender process KPMG LLP and KPMG Accountants N.V. (together referred to as ‘KPMG’) were appointed as the Group’s auditors has on 14 May 2014. KPMG have served as Group auditor for the years ended 31 December 2015 and 2014. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP and PricewaterhouseCoopers Accountants N.V. (together referred to as ‘PricewaterhouseCoopers’) served as Group auditor for the year ended 31 December 2013. Remuneration of the Group’s auditor in respect of 2015 and 2014 was payable to KPMG while in respect of 2013 it was payable to PricewaterhouseCoopers.

    

 million

2013

   

 million

2012

   

 million

2011

 

Audit fees(a)

   16     18     18  

Audit-related fees(b)

   3     2     2  

Tax fees

   1     1     1  

All other fees

   1          1  

    million   million   million 
    2015  2014  2013 

Audit fees(a)

   14    14    16  

Audit-related fees(b)

   (c)   (c)   3  

Tax fees

   (c)   (c)   1  

All other fees

   (c)   (c)   1  

 

(a)Excludes1nil million fees paid in respect of services supplied for associated pension schemes. (2012:(2014:1nil million; 2011:2013:1 million).
(b)Includes other audit services which comprise audit and similar work that regulations or agreements with third parties require the auditors to undertake.
(c)Amounts paid in relation to each type of service are individually less than1 million. In aggregate the fees paid were1 million (2014: less than1 million).

D.

ITEM 16D. EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES

Not applicable.

 

 

20                Form 20-FUnilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013


ITEM 16. RESERVEDCONTINUED

E.16E. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

SHARE PURCHASES DURING 20132015

The information set forth under the heading ‘Our shares’ on pages 47 and 48 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2015 furnished separately on 23 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

 

               million 
          Of which, number of   Maximum value that 
          shares purchased   may yet be purchased 
               million   Total number of   Average price   as part of publicly   as part of publicly 
  

Total number of

shares purchased

   

Average price

paid per share ()

   

Of which, numbers of

shares purchased

as part of publicly

announced plans

   

Maximum value that

may yet be purchased

as part of publicly

announced plans

   shares purchased   paid per share ()   announced plans   announced plans 

January

                                        

February(a)

   160,400     30.21               24,212     37.54            

March(a)

   203,677     30.70            

March

                    

April

                                        

May

                                        

June

                    

June(a)

   2,037,000     38.38            

July

                                        

August

                    

August(a)

   3,383,300     39.69            

September

                                        

October

                                        

November

                                        

December

                                        
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

Total

   364,077     30.48               5,444,512     39.19            
  

 

   

 

   

 

   

 

 

 

(a)Shares were purchased to satisfy commitments to deliver shares under our share-based plans as described in note 4C ‘Share-Based Compensation Plans’‘Share-based compensation plans’ on pages 104 and 105 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K and incorporated by reference.

Between 2631 December 2015 and 15 February and 3 March 2014 Unilever N.V. purchased 527,958 shares with an average price of Euro 28.91 per2016 (the latest practicable date for inclusion in this report) neither NV or PLC conducted any share to facilitate grants in connection with its employee compensation programs.repurchases.

F.

20                Form 20-FUnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 2015


ITEM 16F. CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT

In 2013 we conducted a tender process for the Unilever Group’s statutory audit contract. The change in auditors is beingwas made in order to remain at the forefront of good governance and in recognition of regulatory changes in Europe and elsewhere. Accordingly, the engagement of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP and PricewaterhouseCoopers Accountants N.V. (together, ‘PricewaterhouseCoopers’), Unilever’s current auditor, willwas not be renewed in 2014. As a result of the audit tender process we announced on 2 December 2013 that following, completion of the audit of the Unilever Group financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2013 and the audit of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of 31 December 2013, KPMG LLP and KPMG Accountants N.V. (together, ‘KPMG’) willwould become Unilever’s statutory auditor, subject tofollowing approval by shareholders at the 2014 Annual General Meeting of Unilever PLC and Unilever N.V.N.V.. The approval for this was delegated by the Board to a Board Committee comprising the Chairman, the Chief Financial Officer, the Chairman of the Audit Committee and the
Vice-Chairman/Senior Independent Director.

During the two years prior to 31 December 2013 (1) PricewaterhouseCoopers haswe did not issued any reports on the financial statements of the Unilever Group or on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting that contained an adverse opinion or a disclaimer of opinion, nor were the auditors’ reports of PricewaterhouseCoopers qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope, or accounting principles, (2) there has not been any disagreement over any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope or procedures, which disagreements if not resolved to PricewaterhouseCooper’s satisfaction would have caused it to make reference to the subject matter of the disagreement in connection with its auditors’ reports, or any “reportable event” as described in Item 16F(a)(1)(v) of Form 20-F.

Further in the two years prior to 31 December 2013 we have not consultedconsult with KPMG regarding either (i) the application of accounting principles to a specified transaction, either completed or proposed, or the type of audit opinion that might be rendered with respect to the consolidated financial statements of the Unilever Group; or (ii) any matter that was the subject of a disagreement as that term is used in Item 16F(a)(1)(iv) of Form 20-F or a “reportable event”‘reportable event’ as described in Item 16F(a)(1)(v) of Form 20-F.

G.

ITEM 16G. CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The information set forth under the heading ‘Corporate governance’ on pages 4245 to 52 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132015 furnished separately on 7 March 201423 February 2016 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

ITEM 16H. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.

ITEM 17. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Unilever has responded to Item 18 in lieu of this item.

 

Unilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 20132015 Form 20-F                21


ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The information set forth under the heading ‘Financial statements’ on page 8584 and pages 90 to 135147 of the Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 20132014 furnished separately on 76 March 20142015 under Form 6-K is incorporated by reference.

To the Directors and shareholders

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRMS

In our opinion,The Board of Directors and Shareholders

We have audited the accompanying consolidated income statementsbalance sheets of the Unilever Group (Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC, together with their subsidiaries) as at 31 December 2015 and 2014 and the related consolidated balance sheets, consolidated cash flowincome statements, consolidated statements of comprehensive income, and consolidated statements of changes in equity, set forth underand consolidated cash flow statements for each of the heading ‘Financial Statements’years in the two-year period ended 31 December 2015 on pages 90 to 135 (excluding Note 24 on page 133)147 of the Unilever Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2013(excluding note 25 on page 135) and the Guarantor financial information included in Item 18 of this Form 20-F present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of(hereafter referred to as ‘Consolidated Financial Statements’). We also have audited the Unilever Group at 31 December 2013 and 31 December 2012 and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended 31 December 2013, in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board and in conformity with IFRS as adopted by the European Union. Also in our opinion, the Group maintained, in all material respects, effectiveGroup’s internal control over financial reporting as ofat 31 December 2013,2015, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) (1992). The Unilever Group’s Directors and management areis responsible for these consolidated financial statements.

The Group’s management is responsibleConsolidated Financial Statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying ‘Management’s report on internal control over financial reporting’ included in Item 15 of this Form 20-F. Our responsibility is to express opinionsan opinion on these consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements and an opinion on the Unilever Group’s internal control over financial reporting based on our integrated audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements,Consolidated Financial Statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall consolidated financial statementsstatement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of consolidated financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of consolidated financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorisations of management and Directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorised acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements.Consolidated Financial Statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, the Consolidated Financial Statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Unilever Group as at 31 December 2015 and 2014, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the years in the two-year period ended 31 December 2015, in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board and in conformity with IFRS as adopted by the European Union. Also in our opinion, the Unilever Group maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of 31 December 2015, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

KPMG LLPKPMG Accountants N.V.
London, United KingdomAmsterdam, the Netherlands
17 February 2016

22                Form 20-FUnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 2015


ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTSCONTINUED

To the Directors and shareholders

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRMS

In our opinion, the consolidated income statement, consolidated cash flow statement, consolidated statement of comprehensive income and consolidated statement of changes in equity set forth under the heading ‘Financial Statements’ on pages 90 to 147 of Unilever Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2015 and the Guarantor financial information included in Item 18 of this Form 20-F present fairly, in all material respects, the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year ended 31 December 2013, in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board and in conformity with IFRS as adopted by the European Union. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit of these statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP  Amsterdam, The Netherlands, 4 March 2014
London, United Kingdom  PricewaterhouseCoopers Accountants N.V.
As auditors of Unilever PLC  As auditors of Unilever N.V.
4 March 2014  Original has been signed by P J van Mierlo RA

 

22                Form 20-FUnilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 20132015Form 20-F                23


ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTSCONTINUED

GUARANTOR STATEMENTS(AUDITED)

On 1 November 2011,30 September 2014, NV and Unilever Capital Corporation (UCC) filed a US Shelf registration, which is unconditionally and fully guaranteed, jointly and severally, by NV, PLC and Unilever United States, Inc. (UNUS). This and that superseded the previous NV and UCC US Shelf registration filed on 181 November 2008,2011, which iswas unconditionally and fully guaranteed, jointly and severally, by NV, PLC and UNUS. UCC and UNUS are each indirectly 100% owned by the Unilever parent entities (as defined below). Of the US Shelf registration, US $5.8$5.6 billion of Notes were outstanding at 31 December 2013 (2012:2015 (2014: US $5.0 billion; 2011:2013: US $4.0$5.8 billion) with coupons ranging from 0.45%0.85% to 5.9%. These Notes are repayable between 1510 February 20142016 and 15 November 2032.

Provided below are the income statements, cash flow statements and balance sheets of each of the companies discussed above, together with the income statement, cash flow statement and balance sheet of non-guarantor subsidiaries. These have been prepared under the historical cost convention and, aside from the basis of accounting for investments at net asset value (equity accounting), comply in all material respects with International Financial Reporting Standards. The financial information in respect of NV, PLC and UNUS has been prepared with all subsidiaries accounted for on an equity basis. Information on NV and PLC is shown collectively as Unilever parent entities. The financial information in respect of the non-guarantor subsidiaries has been prepared on a consolidated basis.

 

    million     million     million     million     million     million     million  million  million  million  million    million 

Income statement

for the year ended 31 December 2013

   
 
 
 
 
Unilever
Capital
Corporation
subsidiary
issuer
  
  
  
  
  
  

 

 

Unilever

parent

entities

(a) 

  

  

  
 
 
 
 
Unilever
United
States Inc.
subsidiary
guarantor
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
Non-
guarantor
subsidiaries
  
  
  
  Eliminations    
 
Unilever
Group
  
  
  Unilever   Unilever         
  Capital   United         
   Corporation    Unilever(a)   States Inc.    Non-     
Income statement  subsidiary parent subsidiary guarantor     Unilever 
for the year ended 31 December 2015  issuer entities guarantor subsidiaries Eliminations   Group 

Turnover

               49,797        49,797                 53,272         53,272  

Operating profit

       296    4    7,217        7,517         990    (5  6,530         7,515  

Finance income

               103        103  

Finance costs

   (150  (111      (239      (500

Net finance income/(costs)

       (103  (327  58         (372

Pensions and similar obligations

       (4  (29  (100      (133       (3  (29  (89       (121

Inter-company finance income/(costs)

   150    32    (190  8          

Dividends

       2,945        (2,945        

Share of net profit/(loss) of joint ventures and associates

               113        113  

Other income from non-current investments

               14        14  

Other income/(losses)

       439        (241       198  

Profit before taxation

       3,158    (215  4,171        7,114         1,323    (361  6,258         7,220  

Taxation

       (13  (419  (1,419      (1,851       (461  (87  (1,413       (1,961

Net profit

       3,145    (634  2,752        5,263  

Net profit before subsidiaries

       862    (448  4,845         5,259  

Equity earnings of subsidiaries

       2,118    1,395        (3,513           4,047    690    (9,408  4,671       

Net profit

       5,263    761    2,752    (3,513  5,263         4,909    242    (4,563  4,671     5,259  

Attributable to:

               

Non-controlling interests

               421        421                 350         350  

Shareholders’ equity

       5,263    761    2,331    (3,513  4,842         4,909    242    (4,913  4,671     4,909  

Total comprehensive income

   (15  3,234    (209  2,057        5,067     (1  4,922    332    (4,162  4,671     5,762  

 

(a)The term ‘Unilever parent entities’ includes Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC. Though Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC are separate legal entities, with different shareholder constituencies and separate stock exchange listings, they operate as nearly as practicable as a single economic entity. Debt securities issued by entities in the Unilever Group are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by both Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC.

 

24                Form 20-F
UnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 20132015Form 20-F                23


ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTSCONTINUED

 

   million  million  million  million  million  million 
  Unilever   Unilever       
   million  million  million  million  million  million   Capital   United       
  

Unilever

Capital

   

Unilever

United

          Corporation    Unilever(a)  States Inc.   Non-    
Income statement   

 

 

Corporation

subsidiary

issuer

  

  

  

  

 

 

Unilever

parent

entities

(a) 

  

  

  

 

 

States Inc.

subsidiary

guarantor

  

  

  

  

 

 

Non-

guarantor

subsidiaries

  

  

  

 Eliminations    

 

Unilever

Group

  

  

  subsidiary parent subsidiary guarantor   Unilever 
for the year ended 31 December 2012      (Restated)   (Restated)     (Restated)  
for the year ended 31 December 2014  issuer entities guarantor subsidiaries Eliminations Group 
Turnover              51,324       51,324                48,436       48,436  
Operating profit      334   7   6,636       6,977        363   (6 7,623       7,980  

Finance income

              136       136  

Finance costs

   (153 (169     (204     (526

Net finance costs

      (97 (258 (28     (383

Pensions and similar obligations

      (5 (32 (108     (145      (4 (26 (64     (94

Inter-company finance income/(costs)

   153   (6 (110 (37        

Dividends

      2,851   676   (3,527        

Share of net profit/(loss) of joint ventures and associates

              105       105  

Other income from non-current investments

              (14     (14

Other income

              143       143  
Profit before taxation      3,005   541   2,987       6,533        262   (290 7,674       7,646  

Taxation

      (29 (192 (1,476     (1,697      (93 (562 (1,476     (2,131
Net profit      2,976   349   1,511       4,836  

Net profit before subsidiaries

      169   (852 6,198       5,515  

Equity earnings of subsidiaries

      1,860   728       (2,588          5,002   1,713   (5,269 (1,446    
Net profit      4,836   1,077   1,511   (2,588 4,836        5,171   861   929   (1,446 5,515  

Attributable to:

              

Non-controlling interests

              468       468                344       344  

Shareholders’ equity

      4,836   1,077   1,043   (2,588 4,368        5,171   861   585   (1,446 5,171  

Total comprehensive income

   (9 2,824   438   645       3,898     (1 5,165   754   (317 (1,446 4,155  
   million  million  million  million  million  million    million  million  million  million  million  million 
  

Unilever

Capital

   

Unilever

United

         Unilever   Unilever       
  Capital   United       
   Corporation    Unilever(a)  States Inc.   Non-    
Income statement   

 

 

Corporation

subsidiary

issuer

  

  

  

  

 

 

Unilever

parent

entities

(a) 

  

  

  

 

 

States Inc.

subsidiary

guarantor

  

  

  

  

 

 

Non-

guarantor

subsidiaries

  

  

  

 Eliminations    

 

Unilever

Group

  

  

  subsidiary parent subsidiary guarantor   Unilever 
for the year ended 31 December 2011      (Restated)   (Restated)     (Restated)  
for the year ended 31 December 2013  issuer entities guarantor subsidiaries Eliminations Group 
Turnover              46,467       46,467                49,797       49,797  
Operating profit      155   (12 6,277       6,420        296   4   7,217       7,517  

Finance income

              92       92  

Finance costs

   (127 (203     (210     (540

Net finance costs

      (79 (190 (128     (397

Pensions and similar obligations

      (5 (26 (64     (95      (4 (29 (100     (133

Inter-company finance income/(costs)

   128   61   (11 (178        

Dividends

      2,631       (2,631        

Share of net profit/(loss) of joint ventures and associates

              113       113  

Other income from non-current investments

              76       76  

Other income

              127       127  
Profit before taxation   1   2,639   (49 3,475       6,066  

Profit before tax and subsidiaries

      213   (215 7,116       7,114  

Taxation

      50   (233 (1,392     (1,575      (13 (419 (1,419     (1,851
Net profit   1   2,689   (282 2,083       4,491  

Net profit before subsidiaries

      200   (634 5,697       5,263  

Equity earnings of subsidiaries

      1,802   898       (2,700          4,642   1,395   (2,945 (3,092    
Net profit   1   4,491   616   2,083   (2,700 4,491        4,842   761   2,752   (3,092 5,263  

Attributable to:

              

Non-controlling interests

              371       371                421       421  

Shareholders’ equity

   1   4,491   616   1,712   (2,700 4,120        4,842   761   2,331   (3,092 4,842  

Total comprehensive income

   9   2,542   (290 262       2,523     (15 4,931   1,186   2,057   (3,092 5,067  

 

(a)The term ‘Unilever parent entities’ includes Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC. Though Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC are separate legal entities, with different shareholder constituencies and separate stock exchange listings, they operate as nearly as practicable as a single economic entity. Debt securities issued by entities in the Unilever Group are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by both Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC.

 

24                Form 20-FUnilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 20132015Form 20-F                25


ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTSCONTINUED

 

   million  million  million  million  million  million    million    million  million    million    million  million 
Balance sheetat 31 December 2013   

 

 

 

 

Unilever

Capital

Corporation

subsidiary

issuer

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

 

Unilever

parent

entities

(a) 

  

  

  

 

 

 

 

Unilever

United

States Inc.

subsidiary

guarantor

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

 

Non-

guarantor

subsidiaries

  

  

  

  Eliminations    

 

Unilever

Group

  

  

  Unilever     Unilever           
  Capital     United           
   Corporation     Unilever(a)   States Inc.     Non-     
  subsidiary   parent subsidiary   guarantor     Unilever 
Balance sheetat 31 December 2015  issuer   entities guarantor   subsidiaries   Eliminations Group 

Assets

                 

Non-current assets

                 

Goodwill and intangible assets

       1,726        19,178        20,904          2,429         22,630         25,059  

Property, plant and equipment

               9,344        9,344  

Pension asset for funded schemes in surplus

       1        990        991  

Deferred tax assets

       163    38    883        1,084          160    90     935         1,185  

Financial assets

               505        505  

Other non-current assets

           1    562        563          8    3     13,357         13,368  

Amounts due from group companies

   7,896            30    (7,926       12,961     2,763              (15,724    

Net assets of subsidiaries (equity accounted)

       41,740    17,841    (20,528  (39,053            39,770    18,952          (58,722    
   7,896    43,630    17,880    10,964    (46,979  33,391   
   12,961     45,130    19,045     36,922     (74,446  39,612  

Current assets

                 

Inventories

               3,937        3,937  

Amounts due from group companies

       5,112    2,103    (7,215           86     2,917    4,290     33,450     (40,743    

Trade and other current receivables

       91    13    4,727        4,831          69    5     4,730         4,804  

Current tax assets

       18        199        217          92         138         230  

Cash and cash equivalents

       3        2,282        2,285  

Other financial assets

               760        760  

Non-current assets held for sale

               92        92  

Other current assets

        4    1     7,647         7,652  
 
   86     3,082    4,296     45,965     (40,743  12,686  
       5,224    2,116    4,782        12,122  
Total assets   7,896    48,854    19,996    15,746    (46,979  45,513     13,047     48,212    23,341     82,887     (115,189  52,298  

Liabilities

                 

Current liabilities

                 

Financial liabilities

   885    2,132    3    990        4,010     1,990     1,551    4     1,244         4,789  

Amounts due to group companies

   3,101    29,747        (32,848           6,077     27,351    22     7,293     (40,743    

Trade payables and other current liabilities

   45    170    31    11,489        11,735     57     170    38     13,523         13,788  

Current tax liabilities

       (17  155    1,116        1,254              10     1,117         1,127  

Provisions

       11        368        379  

Liabilities associated with assets held for sale

               4        4  

Other current liabilities

        5         310         315  
 
   8,124     29,077    74     23,487     (40,743  20,019  
   4,031    32,043    189    (18,881      17,382  

Non-current liabilities

                 

Financial liabilities

   3,600    2,326        1,565        7,491     4,589     3,723         1,542         9,854  

Amounts due to group companies

           7,937    (11  (7,926                12,960     2,764     (15,724    

Pensions and post-retirement healthcare liabilities

       

Pensions and post-retirement healthcare liabilities:

          

Funded schemes in deficit

           12    1,393        1,405          9    92     1,468         1,569  

Unfunded schemes

       102    480    981        1,563          97    543     1,045         1,685  

Provisions

       5    2    885        892  

Deferred tax liabilities

       18        1,506        1,524  

Other non-current liabilities

       16        425        441          22    2     3,065         3,089  
   4,589     3,851    13,597     9,884     (15,724  16,197  
   3,600    2,467    8,431    6,744    (7,926  13,316  

Total liabilities

   7,631    34,510    8,620    (12,137  (7,926  30,698     12,713     32,928    13,671     33,371     (56,467  36,216  

Equity

       

Shareholders’ equity

          334     15,284    9,670     48,873     (58,722  15,439  

Called up share capital

       484                484  

Share premium account

       138    942    (942      138  

Other reserves

   (10  (6,746  (381  (2,680  3,071    (6,746

Retained profit

   275    20,468    10,815    31,034    (42,124  20,468  
   265    14,344    11,376    27,412    (39,053  14,344  

Non-controlling interests

               471        471                   643         643  

Total equity

   265    14,344    11,376    27,883    (39,053  14,815     334     15,284    9,670     49,516     (58,722  16,082  
Total liabilities and equity   7,896    48,854    19,996    15,746    (46,979  45,513     13,047     48,212    23,341     82,887     (115,189  52,298  

 

(a)The term ‘Unilever parent entities’ includes Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC. Though Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC are separate legal entities, with different shareholder constituencies and separate stock exchange listings, they operate as nearly as practicable as a single economic entity. Debt securities issued by entities in the Unilever Group are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by both Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC.

 

26                Form 20-F
UnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 20132015Form 20-F                25


ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTSCONTINUED

 

   million    million  million  million  million  million    million    million  million    million    million  million 
  

Unilever

Capital

     

Unilever

United

         Unilever     Unilever           
   

 

 

Corporation

subsidiary

issuer

  

  

  

   

 

 

Unilever

parent

entities

(a) 

  

  

  

 

 

States Inc.

subsidiary

guarantor

  

  

  

  

 

 

Non-

guarantor

subsidiaries

  

  

  

 Eliminations    

 

Unilever

Group

  

  

  Capital     United           
Balance sheetat 31 December 2012       (Restated)   (Restated)     (Restated)  
   Corporation     Unilever(a)  States Inc.     Non-     
  subsidiary   parent subsidiary   guarantor     Unilever 
Balance sheetat 31 December 2014  issuer   entities guarantor   subsidiaries   Eliminations Group 

Assets

                  

Non-current assets

                  

Goodwill and intangible assets

        1,330       20,388       21,718          1,636         20,538        22,174  

Property, plant and equipment

               9,445       9,445  

Pension asset for funded schemes in surplus

               758       758  

Deferred tax assets

        103   251   696       1,050          145   152     989        1,286  

Financial assets

           1   534       535  

Other non-current assets

           7   529       536          11   3     12,206        12,220  

Amounts due from group companies

   6,642            (26 (6,616       10,440     779              (11,219    

Net assets of subsidiaries (equity accounted)

        40,627   15,710   (17,981 (38,356            43,153   17,776          (60,929    
   6,642     42,060   15,969   14,343   (44,972 34,042   
   10,440     45,724   17,931     33,733     (72,148 35,680  

Current assets

                  

Inventories

               4,436       4,436  

Amounts due from group companies

        5,050   2,087   (7,137                5,077   3,156     37,248     (45,481    

Trade and other current receivables

        80   12   4,344       4,436          82   11     4,936        5,029  

Current tax assets

        287   98   (168     217          64         217        281  

Cash and cash equivalents

        3       2,462       2,465  

Other financial assets

               401       401  

Non-current assets held for sale

               192       192  

Other current assets

        5         7,032        7,037  
 
        5,228   3,167     49,433     (45,481 12,347  
        5,420   2,197   4,530       12,147  
Total assets   6,642     47,480   18,166   18,873   (44,972 46,189     10,440     50,952   21,098     83,166     (117,629 48,027  
Liabilities                  

Current liabilities

                  

Financial liabilities

   691     1,250   3   712       2,656     624     3,777   5     1,130        5,536  

Amounts due to group companies

   1,859     28,132       (29,991           5,757     31,473   18     8,233     (45,481    

Trade payables and other current liabilities

   46     181   33   11,408       11,668     42     218   33     12,313        12,606  

Current tax liabilities

        304       825       1,129             39     1,042        1,081  

Provisions

        34       327       361  

Liabilities associated with assets held for sale

               1       1  

Other current liabilities

        11         408        419  
 
   6,423     35,479   95     23,126     (45,481 19,642  
   2,596     29,901   36   (16,718     15,815  

Non-current liabilities

                  

Financial liabilities

   3,766     2,058       1,741       7,565     3,717     1,686         1,783        7,186  

Amounts due to group companies

           6,701   (85 (6,616               10,439     780     (11,219    

Pensions and post-retirement healthcare liabilities

        

Pensions and post-retirement healthcare liabilities:

          

Funded schemes in deficit

        2   174   1,884       2,060          8   140     2,074        2,222  

Unfunded schemes

        110   580   1,350       2,040          109   570     1,046        1,725  

Provisions

        12   1   833       846  

Deferred tax liabilities

               1,414       1,414  

Other non-current liabilities

        5   81   414       500          21   2     2,966        2,989  
   3,717     1,824   11,151     8,649     (11,219 14,122  
   3,766     2,187   7,537   7,551   (6,616 14,425  
Total liabilities   6,362     32,088   7,573   (9,167 (6,616 30,240     10,140     37,303   11,246     31,775     (56,700 33,764  
Equity        

Shareholders’ equity

           300     13,649   9,852     50,779     (60,929 13,651  

Called up share capital

        484               484  

Share premium account

        140   942   (942     140  

Other reserves

   5     (6,196 (612 (1,695 2,302   (6,196

Retained profit

   275     20,964   10,263   30,120   (40,658 20,964  
   280     15,392   10,593   27,483   (38,356 15,392  

Non-controlling interests

               557       557                   612        612  
Total equity   280     15,392   10,593   28,040   (38,356 15,949     300     13,649   9,852     51,391     (60,929 14,263  
Total liabilities and equity   6,642     47,480   18,166   18,873   (44,972 46,189     10,440     50,952   21,098     83,166     (117,629 48,027  

 

(a)The term ‘Unilever parent entities’ includes Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC. Though Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC are separate legal entities, with different shareholder constituencies and separate stock exchange listings, they operate as nearly as practicable as a single economic entity. Debt securities issued by entities in the Unilever Group are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by both Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC.

 

26                Form 20-FUnilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 20132015Form 20-F                27


ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTSCONTINUED

 

    million   million   million   million   million   million 

Cash flow statement

for the year ended 31 December 2013

   

 

 

 

 

Unilever

Capital

Corporation

subsidiary

issuer

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

 

Unilever

parent

entities

(a) 

  

  

  

 

 

 

 

Unilever

United

States Inc.

subsidiary

guarantor

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

 

Non-

guarantor

subsidiaries

  

  

  

  Eliminations    

 

Unilever

Group

  

  

Cash flow from operating activities

   1    512    56    7,530        8,099  

Income tax

       (110  (223  (1,472      (1,805
Net cash flow from operating activities   1    402    (167  6,058        6,294  

Interest received

               100        100  

Net capital expenditure

       (464      (1,563      (2,027

Acquisitions and disposals

       21        932        911  

Other investing activities

   (1,465  (1,042  (107  1,004    1,465    (145
Net cash flow from/(used in) investing activities   (1,465  (1,527  (107  473    1,465    (1,161

Dividends paid on ordinary share capital

       (41  (1,092  (1,860      (2,993

Interest and preference dividends paid

   (152  (128      (231      (511

Acquisition of non-controlling interest

       (2,515      (386      (2,901

Change in financial liabilities

   275    1,192        (203      1,264  

Other movement in treasury stocks

       163    (32  (107      24  

Other finance activities

   1,337    2,402    1,398    (3,945  (1,465  (273
Net cash flow from/(used in) financing activities   1,460    1,073    274    (6,732  (1,465  (5,390

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

   (4  (52      (201      (257
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year       3    (3  2,217        2,217  

Effect of foreign exchange rate changes

   4    52        28        84  
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year       3    (3  2,044        2,044  
    million   million   million   million   million   million 

Cash flow statement

for the year ended 31 December 2012

   

 

 

 

 

Unilever

Capital

Corporation

subsidiary

issuer

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

 

Unilever

parent

entities

(a) 

  

  

  

 

 

 

 

Unilever

United

States Inc.

subsidiary

guarantor

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

 

Non-

guarantor

subsidiaries

  

  

  

  Eliminations    

 

Unilever

Group

  

  

Cash flow from operating activities

       478    3    8,035        8,516  

Income tax

       (89  (135  (1,456      (1,680
Net cash flow from operating activities       389    (132  6,579        6,836  

Interest received

               146        146  

Net capital expenditure

       (1,176      (967)        (2,143

Acquisitions and disposals

               113        113  

Other investing activities

   (1,181  5,838    (98  (4,575  1,145    1,129  
Net cash flow from/(used in) investing activities   (1,181  4,662    (98  (5,283  1,145    (755

Dividends paid on ordinary share capital

       (1,368  (917  (414)        (2,699

Interest and preference dividends paid

   (147  (177      (182      (506

Change in borrowing and finance leases

   (93  (1,866      (1,050      (3,009

Other movement in treasury stocks

       187    (64  (75      48  

Other finance activities

   1,421    (1,814  1,210    (128  (1,145  (456
Net cash flow from/(used in) financing activities   1,181    (5,038  229    (1,849  (1,145  (6,622

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

       13    (1  (553      (541
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year       1    (3  2,980        2,978  

Effect of foreign exchange rate changes

       (11  1    (210      (220

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year

       3    (3  2,217        2,217  
    million   million   million   million   million   million 
   Unilever     Unilever          
   Capital     United          
   Corporation    Unilever(a)   States Inc.    Non-    
Cash flow statement  subsidiary  parent  subsidiary  guarantor     Unilever 
for the year ended 31 December 2015  issuer  entities  guarantor  subsidiaries  Eliminations  Group 

Net cash flow from/(used in) operating activities

   (1  (699  (140  8,170        7,330  

Net cash flow from/(used in) investing activities

   (1,005  231    (729  (2,955  919    (3,539

Net cash flow from/(used in) financing activities

   1,000    558    871    (4,542  (919  (3,032

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

   (6  90    2    673        759  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

       5    (3  1,908        1,910  

Effect of foreign exchange rates

   6    (91      (456      (541

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

       4    (1  2,125        2,128  
    million   million   million   million   million   million 
   Unilever     Unilever          
   Capital     United          
   Corporation    Unilever(a)   States Inc.    Non-    
Cash flow statement  subsidiary  parent  subsidiary  guarantor     Unilever 
for the year ended 31 December 2014  issuer  entities  guarantor  subsidiaries  Eliminations  Group 

Net cash flow from/(used in) operating activities

       579    (764  5,728        5,543  

Net cash flow from/(used in) investing activities

   (1,038  (2,284  (662  2,606    1,037    (341

Net cash flow from/(used in) financing activities

   1,033    1,676    1,426    (8,288  (1,037  (5,190

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

   (5  (29      46        12  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

       3    (2  2,043        2,044  

Effect of foreign exchange rates

   5    31        (182      (146

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

       5    (2  1,907        1,910  
    million   million   million   million   million   million 
   Unilever     Unilever          
   Capital     United          
   Corporation    Unilever(a)   States Inc.    Non-    
Cash flow statement  subsidiary  parent  subsidiary  guarantor     Unilever 
for the year ended 31 December 2013  issuer  entities  guarantor  subsidiaries  Eliminations  Group 

Net cash flow from/(used in) operating activities

   1    402    (167  6,058        6,294  

Net cash flow from/(used in) investing activities

   (1,465  (1,527  (107  473    1,465    (1,161

Net cash flow from/(used in) financing activities

   1,460    1,073(b)   274    (6,732  (1,465  (5,390

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

   (4  (52      (201      (257

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

       3    (3  2,217        2,217  

Effect of foreign exchange rates

   4    52        28        84  

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

       3    (3  2,044        2,044  

 

(a)The term ‘Unilever parent entities’ includes Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC. Though Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC are separate legal entities, with different shareholder constituencies and separate stock exchange listings, they operate as nearly as practicable as a single economic entity. Debt securities issued by entities in the Unilever Group are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by both Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC.

Unilever Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013Form 20-F                27


ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTSCONTINUED

    million   million   million   million   million   million 

Cash flow statement

for the year ended 31 December 2011

   

 

 

 

 

Unilever

Capital

Corporation

subsidiary

issuer

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

 

Unilever

parent

entities

(a) 

  

  

  

 

 

 

 

Unilever

United

States Inc.

subsidiary

guarantor

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

 

Non-

guarantor

subsidiaries

  

  

  

  Eliminations    

 

Unilever

Group

  

  

Cash flow from operating activities

   (1  61    (56  6,635        6,639  

Income tax

       (71  (84  (1,032      (1,187
Net cash flow from operating activities   (1  (10  (140  5,603        5,452  

Interest received

   128    56    108    (77  (122  93  

Net capital expenditure

       (27      (1,947      (1,974

Acquisitions and disposals

       (37      (1,683      (1,720

Other investing activities

   (2,362  (1,134  (927  726    2,831    (866
Net cash flow from/(used in) investing activities   (2,234  (1,142  (819  (2,981  2,709    (4,467

Dividends paid on ordinary share capital

       137        (2,622      (2,485

Interest and preference dividends paid

   (112  (217  (119  (170  122    (496

Change in borrowing and finance leases

   2,345    648    281    764    (281  3,757  

Other movement in treasury stocks

       151    (37  (84      30  

Other finance activities

       475    836    844    (2,550  (395
Net cash flow from/(used in) financing activities   2,233    1,194    961    (1,268  (2,709  411  
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents   (2  42    2    1,354        1,396  
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year           (3  1,969        1,966  

Effect of foreign exchange rate changes

   2    (41  (2  (343      (384

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year

       1    (3  2,980        2,978  

(a)(b)The term ‘Unilever parent entities’ includesIncluded within this balance is a cash outflow of2,515 million to increase the Group’s ownership of Hindustan Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC. Though Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC are separate legal entities, with different shareholder constituencies and separate stock exchange listings, they operate as nearly as practicable as a single economic entity. Debt securities issued by entities in the Unilever Group are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by both Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC.Limited from 52% to 67%.

ITEM 19. EXHIBITS

Please refer to the exhibit list located immediately following the signature page for this Form 20-F as filed with the SEC.

 

28                Form 20-F UnileverAnnual Report on Form 20-F 20132015


 

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SIGNATURES

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorised the undersigned to sign this Annual Report on its behalf.

Unilever PLC.

(Registrant)

 

Unilever PLC
(Registrant)

/s/ T. E. Lovell

T. E. LOVELL,
Group Secretary

Date: 7 March, 201423 February 2016


UNILEVER PLC — 20-F EXHIBIT LIST

 

Exhibit Number

 

Description of Exhibit

1.1 Articles of Association of Unilever PLC 1
2.1 Indenture dated as of August 1, 2000, among Unilever Capital Corporation, Unilever N.V., Unilever PLC, Unilever United States, Inc. and The Bank of New York, as Trustee, relating to Guaranteed Debt Securities 2
2.2Trust Deed dated as of July 22, 1994, among Unilever N.V., Unilever PLC, Unilever Capital Corporation, Unilever United States, Inc. and The Law Debenture Trust Corporation p.l.c., relating to Guaranteed Debt Securities 2
2.2Twentieth Supplemental Trust Deed as of May 1, 2015, incorporating the Trust Deed as of July 22, 1994, as Amended and Restated on May 1, 2015
2.3Amended and Restated Indenture as of September 22, 2014, among Unilever Capital Corporation, Unilever N,V. Unilever PLC, Unilever United States, Inc. and The Bank of New York Mellon, as Trustee, relating to Guaranteed Debt Securities 3
4.12.4Second Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement dated as of July 1, 2014 by and among Unilever PLC and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Depositary, and the Holders and Beneficial Owners of American Depositary Shares issued thereunder 4
4.1(a) Equalisation Agreement between Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC 45
4.1(b)Deed of Mutual Covenants 6
4.1(c)Agreement for Mutual Guarantees of Borrowing 7
4.2 Service Contracts of the Executive Directors of Unilever PLC 58
4.3 Letters regarding compensation of Executive Directors of Unilever PLC
4.4 Unilever North America 2002 Omnibus Equity Compensation as Amended and Restated as of November 1, 2012 Plan 69
4.5 The Unilever PLC International 1997 Executive Share Option Scheme 710
4.6 The Unilever Long Term Incentive Plan 811
4.7 Global Share Incentive Plan 2007 912
4.8 The Management Co-Investment Plan 1013
7.1 Calculation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
8.1 List of Subsidiaries 1114
12.1 Certifications of the Chief Executive Officer and Financial Director/Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
13.1 Certifications of the Chief Executive Officer and Financial Director/Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
15.1 Annual Report and Accounts sections incorporated by reference
15.2 Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopersKPMG LLP and KPMG Accountants N.V. and PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
15.3 Letter dated 7 March, 2014Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLPAccountants N.V. and PricewaterhouseCoopers Accountants N.V.LLP


Certain instruments which define rights of holders of long-term debt of the Company and its subsidiaries are not being filed because the total amount of securities authorized under each such instrument does not exceed 10% of the total consolidated assets of the Company and its subsidiaries. The Company and its subsidiaries hereby agree to furnish a copy of each such instrument to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request.

 

 

1Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.1 of Form 20-F (File No: 001-04546) filed with the SEC on March 08, 2013.

 

2Incorporated by reference to the Form 6-K furnished to the SEC on October 23, 2000.

3Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.2 of Form 20-F (File No: 001-04546) filed with the SEC on March 28, 2002.

 

3.Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.3 of Form 20-F (File No: 001-04546) filed with the SEC on March 6, 2015.

4Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99(A) of Form F-6 (File No: 333-196985) filed with the SEC on June 24, 2014.

5Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of Form 20-F (File No: 001-04546) filed with the SEC on March 5, 2010.


56Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1(b) of Form 20-F (File No: 001-04546) filed with the SEC on March 6, 2015.

7Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1(c) of Form 20-F (File No: 001-04546) filed with the SEC on March 6, 2015.

8Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of Form 20-F (File No: 001-04546) filed with the SEC on March 4, 2011.

 

69Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 of Form S-8 (File No: 333-185299) filed with the SEC on February 27, 2003.December 6, 2012.

 

710Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 of Form 20-F (File No: 001-04546) filed with the SEC on March 28, 2002.

 

811Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.64.7 of Form 20-F (File No: 001-04546) filed with the SEC on March 28, 2002.

 

912Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 of Form 20-F (File No: 001-04546) filed with the SEC on March 26, 2008.

 

1013Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8 of Form 20-F (File No: 001-04546) filed with the SEC on March 4, 2011.

 

1114The required information is set forth on pages 134 and 135136 to 147 of the 20132015 Annual Report and Accounts.