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SAF-HOLLAND SE

Quarterly Report Nov 6, 2014

6218_10-q_2014-11-06_82b5e774-0937-43fa-b5ce-9e4d34d6fed9.pdf

Quarterly Report

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Focus on fleet customers

Quarterly Report of SAF-HOLLAND S.A. as of September 30, 2014

KEY FIGURES

EUR million Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013 Q3/2014 Q3/2013
Sales 723.5 654.7 241.5 219.1
Cost of sales -587.5 -533.4 -196.3 -178.1
Gross profit 136.0 121.3 45.2 41.0
as a percentage of sales 18.8 18.5 18.7 18.7
Adjusted result for the period 35.0 23.6 13.9 7.0
as a percentage of sales 4.8 3.6 5.8 3.2
Adjusted EPS in EUR1) 0.77 0.52 0.30 0.15
Adjusted EBITDA 65.4 55.1 22.4 18.4
as a percentage of sales 9.0 8.4 9.3 8.4
Adjusted EBIT 55.6 46.3 19.1 16.5
as a percentage of sales 7.7 7.1 7.9 7.5
Operating cash flow2) 21.4 48.9 6.4 12.4

1) Adjusted net result / weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding as of the reporting day. 2) The operating cash flow is the cash flow from operating activities before income tax payments.

SALES BY REGION

Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013 Q3/2014 Q3/2013
379.7 338.6 118.5 111.6
270.1 263.2 95.2 88.0
73.7 52.9 27.8 19.5
723.5 654.7 241.5 219.1

SALES BY BUSINESS UNIT

EUR million Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013 Q3/2014 Q3/2013
Trailer Systems 414.1 373.1 133.3 123.9
Powered Vehicle Systems 122.9 109.8 44.0 34.3
Aftermarket 186.5 171.8 64.2 60.9
Total 723.5 654.7 241.5 219.1

OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION

09/30/2014 06/30/2014 03/31/2014 12/31/2013
Total assets (EUR million) 645.1 607.8 590.7 536.4
Equity ratio (%) 39.1 38.1 39.3 41.4
Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013
Employees (average) 3,374 3,085
Sales per employee (kEUR) 214.5 212.2

Focus on fleet customers

Quarterly Report of SAF-HOLLAND S.A. as of September 30, 2014

002 Company

004 Foreword from the Management Board

006 SAF-HOLLAND on the Capital Market Overview Share Price Development 006 Corporate Bonds Overview 008 Investor Relations and Capital Market Relationships 011

012 Group Interim Management Report

012 Financial Position and Financial Performance
General Framework Conditions
012
Overview of Business Development
013
Earnings Situation
015
Financial Situation
021
Assets
022
024 Opportunities and Risk Report

024 Events After the Balance Sheet Date

025 Outlook

Consolidated Interim Financial Statements

030 Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
031 Consolidated Balance Sheet
032 Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
033 Consolidated Cash Flow Statement
034 Notes to the Consolidated Interim
Financial Statements

Additional Information

  • 046 Financial Glossary
  • Technical Glossary
  • List of Abbreviations
  • Financial Calendar and Contact Information
  • Imprint

Foreword from the Management Board

SAF-HOLLAND has successfully finished the third quarter of 2014 and was once again able to benefit from the positive market development in the core markets of Europe and North America.

In order to ensure that this continues to be the case, we have made the quality and innovative strength of our products the focus of our efforts. In September of this year, we therefore presented to our customers a firework of innovations and new products at the world's largest trade fair for commercial vehicles, the IAA in Hannover – all under the motto "inspired by passion". The focus of our trade fair appearance was clearly on our end customers and their particular needs, such as cost-efficiency and weight reductions for their vehicles. At our stand, which attracted a large number of visitors, in addition to the more than 20 new products, we also presented pioneering new technologies and materials such as the carbon-fibre CFRP axle or the newly-developed prism brake "SAF DIRECT". An even closer networking with customers is a top priority for us. We are therefore very proud to be the first supplier in the market to offer a loyalty program, FLEET connect, with which fleet operators will in future be given bonus points for each SAF-HOLLAND product that they buy and register. When the relevant number of points has been earned, the end customer receives attractive rewards and services.

In the third quarter of 2014, Group sales increased to EUR 723.5 million which, compared to the previous year period, represents a strong growth in sales of 10.5%. For SAF-HOLLAND, the expansion of sales volume combined with nearly constant cost structures was linked to a disproportionately high increase in earnings. Adjusted EBIT rose in the first nine months of the year 2014 by 20.1% to EUR 55.6 million, which corresponds to an increase in the adjusted EBIT margin from 7.1% to 7.7%.

The largest Business Unit, Trailer Systems, increased its sales in the first three quarters by about 11% to EUR 414.1 million. The Business Unit was able to take advantage of the strong market growth in North America. The European business also continued to develop positively. It remains to be seen what impact the Ukraine crisis and the associated export sanctions against Russia will have over the course of the year. The earnings side of the Trailer Systems Business Unit remained positive. Adjusted EBIT rose by about 80% to EUR 17.2 million which corresponds to an adjusted EBIT margin of 4.2% as compared to 2.6% in the previous year. The continuing success of the bundle of measures initiated last year to improve the profitability of the Business Unit made a key contribution to the strong earnings.

In the Powered Vehicle Systems Business Unit, sales in the first three quarters of 2014 rose by 11.9% to EUR 122.9 million. Sales increased both in the North American core market and in Europe. Adjusted EBIT for the first three quarters was at EUR 8.1 million as compared to EUR 9.4 million in the previous year. The weaker earnings figures as compared to the previous year reflect, on the one hand, the initially reluctant investment behavior of fleet operators due to the difficult winter and the unfavorable customer and product mix in the first quarter. Beyond that, seasonal influences from the Corpco acquisition also had an impact on earnings in the Business Unit.

The Aftermarket Business Unit developed positively once again in the first three quarters of 2014 and was able to increase its sales by 8.6% to EUR 186.5 million. Adjusted EBIT in the first nine months increased to EUR 30.3 million (previous year: EUR 27.2 million) which corresponds to an adjusted EBIT margin of 16.2% (previous year: 15.8%). The further expansion of our global service network made an important contribution to the positive business development as did the product range of our second brand, SAUER Quality Parts, which we have continuously expanded since 2012. We are currently preparing to enter the American market with the second brand GoldLine.

Detlef Borghardt, Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Foreword from the Management Board

In addition to the strong operational performance of the Business Units, the sound financing structure of the Group is a further building block for the success of SAF-HOLLAND. With the successful issue of a convertible bond due in 2020, we took another important step on the path toward a sustainably optimized financing structure in September 2014. With the proceeds from the bond issuing, we achieved a further repayment of our bank loans, a significant reduction of our financing costs and an improvement of our risk profile. We also managed to reduce the number of our banks and we will continue to benefit from the historically low capital market interest rates. My colleagues on the Management Board and myself are confident that SAF-HOLLAND is optimally positioned for the future from a financial perspective.

Our thanks go out to our global customers, business partners, worker representatives and employees for the trusting cooperation and to our shareholders and investors for their solidarity with SAF-HOLLAND.

Yours,

Detlef Borghardt Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

SAF-HOLLAND ON THE CAPITAL MARKET

OVERVIEW OF SHARE PRICE DEVELOPMENT

International trouble spots burden stock market

For the German stock market, the third quarter of 2014 was characterized by increasing nervousness and uncertainty among investors. The reasons behind this were, in particular, growing concern regarding disputes in the crisis regions Ukraine and the Middle East as well as the potential impact from the political and economic conflict between Russia and the European Union. Additional burdens on the stock exchanges were provided by disappointing company results and currency fluctuations in emerging markets.

The leading German index DAX was able to exceed the 10,000 point mark at the beginning of the quarter and reached an all-time high, but then declined until the beginning of August to a level of approximately 9,000 points. At the end of the quarter, the DAX was at 9,474 points and had thus declined by 0.8% as compared to the year-end closing 2013. The SDAX, where SAF-HOLLAND is listed, had a better performance. With 6,853 points at the end of the quarter, the comparative index for SAF-HOLLAND was 0.9% above its year-end closing 2013.

SAF-HOLLAND share also under pressure

Against the backdrop of a weakening stock market, the SAF-HOLLAND share was also not able to continue the upward development it had maintained for months. In addition to a general bleakness on the market, profit-taking on the part of investors also had a negative effect on the development of the share price.

Following the low of EUR 9.15 on September 25, the price rose slightly. The share closed out the reporting quarter with a price of EUR 9.77 and was thus 9.6% below the year-end closing price for 2013. Compared to the closing price for the third quarter of the previous year, there was a price increase of approximately 8%.

On the basis of the quarterly closing price and the 45,361,112 shares issued, the market capitalization of SAF-HOLLAND increased to EUR 443.2 million as of September 30, 2014 (previous year: EUR 410.5 million).

SAF-HOLLAND on the Capital Market

Source: Commerzbank AG, Frankfurt am Main.

SAF-HOLLAND with high degree of free float

The SAF-HOLLAND share is listed on the regulated market of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. As an SDAX stock, it meets the strict transparency criteria of the Deutsche Boerse Prime Standard. In the first nine months of the year, the average trading volume of the share per trading day was 143,366 (previous year: 228,597).

The majority of the company's shares are in free float. Larger contingents of our stock are held by investment companies from the USA, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, France and Germany. Large institutional investors include Deutsche Bank AG with a 5.29% stake and 2,401,539 voting rights, FMR LLC, Boston (5.06% / 2,294,277 voting rights) and Threadneedle Asset Management Ltd., London (5.24% / 2,376,212 voting rights). Members of the Management Board and the Board of Directors of SAF-HOLLAND hold 3.33% of the company's shares (previous year: 4.39%).

SHAREHOLDER STRUCTURE 2014 Figures in % As of October 13, 2014 Free float thereof institutional investors thereof members of the Management Board and Board of Directors 2014 100 15.59 3.31

Group of sell-side analysts increased

SAF-HOLLAND is regularly analyzed by several banks and brokers. In the third quarter Quirin Bank AG, Berlin, initiated its coverage. Directly following our investor conference at the IAA Commercial Vehicles trade fair, most of the analysts confirmed their positive evaluation of the share. At the time of publication of this quarterly report, all nine analysts gave the share a "buy" recommendation.

CURRENT ANALYSTS ESTIMATES

10/21/2014 Commerzbank AG buy
09/29/2014 Hauck & Aufhäuser Institutional Research AG buy
09/29/2014 Quirin Bank AG buy
09/26/2014 Deutsche Bank AG buy
09/26/2014 equinet Bank AG buy
09/08/2014 Kepler Cheuvreux buy
08/12/2014 Bankhaus Lampe KG buy
08/07/2014 Close Brothers Seydler Bank AG buy
05/15/2014 Montega AG buy

KEY SHARE FIGURES

WKN / ISIN A0MU70 / LU0307018795
Stock exchange symbol SFQ
Number of shares 45,361,112 shares
Designated sponsors Commerzbank AG, Close Brothers Seydler Bank AG, Kepler Cheuvreux
Daily high / low in the
reporting period1)
EUR 11.86 / EUR 9.15
Quarterly closing price1) EUR 9.77
Market capitalization at the
end of third quarter
EUR 443.2 million
Adjusted earnings per share2) EUR 0.77

1) XETRA closing price in euros. 2) Based on the weighted average number of shares outstanding in the period under review.

CORPORATE BONDS OVERVIEW

Convertible bonds successfully placed

On September 12, 2014, within the scope of a private placement, we issued convertible bonds with a total value of EUR 100.2 million. The unsubordinated and unsecured convertible bonds are due on September 12, 2020. The two-times oversubscribed bonds were already placed with institutional investors just a few hours after the accelerated book building process – evidence of the tremendous interest as well as the confidence that investors have in the strength of our company.

The transaction was accompanied by joint bookrunners Citigroup Global Markets Ltd. and Commerzbank AG. IKB Deutsche Industriebank AG acted as co-lead manager and advisor. Following the issue, the convertible bonds were admitted for trading on September 12, 2014 in the open market of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange.

The convertible bonds issued at 100% of their nominal value with a denomination of EUR 100,000 per bond are convertible into 8.1 million new or existing ordinary shares of SAF-HOLLAND S.A. with a par value of EUR 0.01, representing approximately 17.8% of SAF-HOLLAND S.A.'s current outstanding share capital. The subscription rights of the shareholders are excluded.

The convertible bonds have an annual interest rate of 1.00%, payable semi-annually in arrears. The initial conversion price amounts to EUR 12.37 which represents a conversion premium of 20% above the applicable reference share price.

For SAF-HOLLAND, the convertible bonds are a further significant component in the long-term securing and optimization of the company's financing structure and costs. They have given our company sustainably attractive low interest rate conditions and, at the same time, established a favorable basis for the renegotiation of existing credit lines at banks. More information on page 15 and in Events After the Balance Sheet Date on page 24.

The convertible bonds provide SAF-HOLLAND – as compared to bonds without conversion rights – an interest rate advantage of approximately 2.5%. In total, the company saves about EUR 2 million annually as a result of the optimized financing structure, which has a correspondingly positive impact on the earnings situation and thus also on the earnings per share. With this interest expense saving, a dilution would only mathematically occur at a share price of EUR 13.81, under the assumption that the conversion takes place by the end of the conversion period.

WKN A1ZN7J
ISIN DE000A1ZN7J4
Volume EUR 100.2 million
Denomination EUR 100,000
Coupon 1.00% p.a.
Method of payment Semi-annually, first payment on March 12, 2015
Term 6 years
Maturity September 12, 2020
Status Not subordinated and unsecured
Conversion price EUR 12.37 per share
Conversion bonus 20% above reference price
Conversion rate Initially 8,083.6823 per bond (approx. 8.1 million shares)
Dividend protection Up to EUR 0.27 per share annually
Stock exchange listing Open market of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange

KEY FIGURES FOR THE CONVERTIBLE BONDS

Corporate bond listed at 113%

The SAF-HOLLAND corporate bond that was issued two years ago continued its mostly stable price development. At the close of trading on September 30, 2014 our corporate bond had a price of 113.0% (previous year: 109.5 percent). Our bond has a liquidity rating in the investment grade range and is listed in the Prime Standard for corporate bonds in the Frankfurt Stock Exchange.

KEY FIGURES FOR THE CORPORATE BOND

Source: IKB Deutsche Industriebank AG, Düsseldorf.

January 1, 2013 September 30, 2014
WKN A1HA97
ISIN DE000A1HA979
Volume EUR 75.0 million
Denomination EUR 1,000
Coupon 7.00% p.a.
Interest date April 26
Term 5.5 years
Maturity April 26, 2018
Bond segment Prime Standard
Exchange Frankfurt
Status Not subordinate
Company rating BBB, outlook stable (Euler Hermes)
Quarterly closing price1) 113.0% 1) Closing price Bloomberg.

SAF-HOLLAND on the Capital Market

INVESTOR RELATIONS AND CAPITAL MARKET RELATIONSHIPS

Capital Markets Day 2014 at the IAA Commercial Vehicles

The highlight of our capital market communication in the third quarter was this year's Capital Markets Day from SAF-HOLLAND. The event for financial analysts and investors took place at the end of September at the well-attended largest international trade fair for commercial vehicles, the IAA Commercial Vehicles trade fair in Hannover. SAF-HOLLAND presented itself there under the motto "inspired by passion" and, with its presence at the trade fair, once again underscored the company's focus on end-customers. A large number of investors and analysts followed the presentations from our management. During the following guided tour around the SAF-HOL-LAND trade fair stand by the management, the visitors were impressed by the company's appearance and by the product innovations that were being presented. More information can be found in the Management Report under "Significant Events in the Third Quarter", page 13.

We also provided information for capital market experts on the strategic positioning and the strengths of our company at road shows in the United Kingdom and in Munich. In addition, the company successfully participated in the German Commerzbank Sector Conference Week in Frankfurt and the North American UBS Best of Germany Conference in New York, among other events. A broad range of individual and group discussions as well as telephone conferences rounded out our IR activities in the third quarter.

The objective of SAF-HOLLAND's investor relations activities is the provision of comprehensive and timely information for shareholders, bondholders and analysts. The range of communications includes explanations of business development, the global growth strategy, market positions and the future prospects of our company. As a result of the extensive and continuous IR efforts, we make a direct contribution to the expansion of our investor base. In addition, our commitment serves to enhance the importance of SAF-HOLLAND shares and corporate bonds as attractive investments.

Detailed information on the share as well as on the corporate bond and the convertible bonds of SAF-HOLLAND can be found on our Investor Relations website in the Internet. Here you will find, among other things, reports and presentations for download: http://corporate.safholland.com/ en/investoren.html.

Group Interim Management Report

FINANCIAL POSITION AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

GENERAL FRAMEWORK CONDITIONS

Overall economic development

Growth of the world economy has slowed considerably over the course of the year. The economy developed at a lower rate than expected, especially in emerging countries, but production in the advanced economies also showed little growth development.

In Europe, in addition to the weaker global economy, the conflict in Ukraine also had an impact, especially in Central and Eastern European countries. Due to the changed global economic and political conditions, the upward economic trend in the Euro zone has stalled for the moment. The economy in Germany also weakened. According to the German Institute for Economic Research, production in Germany in the third quarter increased just slightly by 0.2%.

In the United States, gross domestic product (GDP) continued to show strong growth. According to initial calculations from the Bureau of Economic Analysis, GDP from July to September grew by 3.5% as compared with the prior-year period. This positive development was driven, among other things, by an increased willingness to invest on the part of the public sector. The Institute for World Economy believes that American municipalities and states increased spending by 3%.

The economic outlook in the BRIC countries has improved. After a weak start to the year, the Chinese economy grew at an ongoing rate of approximately 8%. Economic growth in India also improved: In a year-on-year comparison, production increased by 5%. The Brazilian economy, on the other hand, was once again burdened by worsening financing possibilities and declining raw-materials prices. In its fall forecast, the Institute for World Economy anticipates growth in the gross domestic product for the South American country of a mere 0.1% in 2014. In Russia, the consequences of the Ukraine crisis, including the imposed economic sanctions, dampened economic growth. The decline in value of the ruble promoted exports, but Russian gross domestic product was nevertheless able to expand only slightly.

Industry-specific development

The primary growth driver for the global commercial vehicles market was North America, where freight forwarders and fleet operators continued to invest heavily in their fleets. Demand for both, trucks and trailers, was extraordinarily high. According to ACT Research, orders for trucks in class 8 increased by 70% in July, 30% in August and 32% in September as compared to the corresponding month in the previous year. Orders were also up in classes 5 to 7. In August, for example, they were 15% higher than in the same month in 2013. The North American trailer market also continued to record good growth rates. The order numbers as compared to the monthly figures from the previous year increased by 37% in July and by 86% in September. Financial Position and Financial Performance

The strong growth of 9.3% on the European commercial vehicles market in the first half of the year weakened somewhat over the course of the year. Parallel to the generally weaker overall economy, but also caused by uncertainty in connection with the developments in Ukraine and Syria, sales figures declined slightly in the third quarter. During the whole year 2014, growth rates were, however, recorded in heavy vehicles: From January to September, 3% more trucks over 16 tons were registered for the first time in the European Union than in the prior year period. For trucks over 3.5 tons, first-time registrations in the first nine months decreased by 0.4% as compared to the previous year period.

Development of the commercial vehicle markets in emerging countries tended to be weaker in the reporting period. In Russia, political differences related to Ukraine burdened the market and in Brazil, too, the downward development continued. In the first three quarters of the year, 13.9% fewer trucks were registered in the South American country than in the same period of the previous year. For trucks over 15 tons, the number of first time registrations fell by 11.1%. In Brazil, heavy trucks traditionally make up a majority of the fleets: More than two thirds of all trucks registered for the first time belonged to this weight category which is important for SAF-HOLLAND.

In China, a total of 2.8 million commercial vehicles were produced from January to September, 5.7% fewer than in the comparable period from 2013. An improved economic outlook as well as intensified construction and mining activities are leading to an increase in the volume of goods transported in India and thus to an upturn in the commercial vehicles market. The middle and heavy weight classes in particular benefited from the upward development.

OVERVIEW OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

For SAF-HOLLAND, the good business development continued in the third quarter. As a result of the company's international positioning, its regional diversification as well as sales across all markets, we were able to compensate for regional cyclical fluctuation in demand. In addition, the Aftermarket business, which is in general independent from economic cycles, ensured strong development. Overall, Group sales from January to September increased to EUR 723.5 million (previous year: EUR 654.7 million). Adjusted EBIT rose to EUR 55.6 million (previous year: EUR 46.3 million) with an improved adjusted EBIT margin of 7.7% (previous year: 7.1%).

Significant Events in the Third Quarter 2014

__ Focus on fleet customers: Range of new introductions for the IAA

Under the motto "inspired by passion", an unusually large number of innovations were presented by SAF-HOLLAND at this years' IAA in Hannover, Germany, the world's largest trade fair for commercial vehicles. The common features of these innovations were weight savings as well as developments with regard to durability and ease of maintenance. These performance criteria are at the top of the list of priorities for end-customers because they form a basis for greater transportation efficiency and optimized operating costs. At the trade fair, SAF-HOLLAND once again emphasized its strong positioning of the company in favor of fleet customers and their economic success.

SAF-HOLLAND presented a total of 23 new products. Among the suspension system highlights was the product line with the market and price differentiated variations INTRA S and INTRA R, which considerably increases the level of attractiveness in the market and which helps to meet the needs of our end-customers.

Several of the 23 new products presented at IAA by SAF-HOLLAND make use of future materials and of system solutions and thus once again confirm the company's technological edge. A prime example of the innovative strength of SAF-HOLLAND is the carbon-fibre CFRP axle which leads, in combination with a newly developed aluminum composite brake drum and the prism brake SAF DIRECT, to a weight reduction of up to 80 kilograms per axle for the suspension system. For the end-customer, this results in a maximum weight saving of up to 240 kilograms with three axles per trailer. The newly-developed prism brake features show exceptionally fast response times and thus provides improved safety.

SAF-HOLLAND also demonstrated a clear focus on the fleet customer with modern technologies in the service area such as the ordering of spare parts via QR code and the new Service 24/7 app. The loyalty program FLEET Connect which was launched for the IAA ensures an even closer networking with fleet customers. Fleet operators receive bonus points for each registered SAF-HOLLAND product and these can be exchanged for rewards and services when the relevant number of points has been reached. It is the first program of this kind in our industry.

__ Trailer Systems bundle of measures proceeding according to plan

The large number of new products at the IAA was also the result of intensified development activities in the Trailer Systems Business Unit. We intend to increase the adjusted EBIT margin for the business segment to about 6% by the end of 2015. Therefore, a comprehensive package of measures was put in place in the second half of 2013. It covers a diverse range of initiatives with the goal to increase both the profitability and the sales volume of the Business Unit. This includes an innovation campaign for the development and market launch of new products for our core markets, Europe in particular. These were presented to SAF-HOLLAND's customers at the IAA Commercial Vehicles trade fair.

MEASURES TO IMPROVE PROFITABILITY OF TRAILER SYSTEMS BUSINESS UNIT

Financial Position and Financial Performance

The optimization of the production plant network of the Trailer Systems Business Unit continued to proceed as planned in the reporting period. In the course of the plant consolidation, the German plant in Wörth will be fully transferred to the two plants in Bessenbach. The necessary construction measures at the main production location in Bessenbach progressed well in the third quarter so that the transfer of the machinery and equipment is expected to be completed during the financial year 2015.

In North America, currently specific considerations are underway in connection with potential further production plant consolidations.

__ Successful emission of convertible bonds

In September 2014, SAF-HOLLAND placed convertible bonds with a total nominal value of EUR 100.2 million with institutional investors. The convertible bonds that were issued are unsubordinated and unsecured. The individual securities were each at 100% of their nominal value of EUR 100,000. They have an annual interest rate of 1.00%, payable semi-annually in arrears.

The convertible bonds can be converted by bondholders into a total of 8.1 million ordinary shares of SAF-HOLLAND each with a denomination of EUR 0.01. This corresponds to approximately 17.8% of existing share capital. The initial conversion price is EUR 12.37 and is thus 20% above the applicable reference share price. If investors do not convert their bonds into shares, repayment will be undertaken in September 2020.

The prerequisites for the placement of the convertible bonds were created at the Extraordinary General Meeting on July 15, 2014. The majority of the proceeds from the emission were used to further reduce our bank loans and thus also to further optimize our financing costs. Further information on corporate financing can be found on page 21 and in Events After the Balance Sheet Date on page 24. Further information on the placement of the convertible bonds can be found on page 8.

EARNINGS SITUATION

Significant growth in sales and earnings

In the third quarter, SAF-HOLLAND increased Group sales by 10.2% to EUR 241.5 million (previous year: EUR 219.1 million). We achieved higher sales volume than in the prior-year quarter in Europe and North America as well as in the other regions. Also in relation to the individual Business Units, business was consistently expanded as compared to the same period in the previous year.

Currency effects from the conversion of sales in dollars to the Group currency euro only slightly burdened the overall sales from July to September in the amount of EUR 0.3 million. Adjusted for exchange rate effects, Group sales in the period under review reached EUR 241.8 million.

CURRENCIES: LOSS AGAINST THE EURO (Q1-Q3/2014)1)

North America

1) Average rates Q1-Q3/2014 versus Q1-Q3/2013.

US dollar -2.86% Canadian dollar -9.09% In the first nine months of the financial year, the Group's sales increased to EUR 723.5 million (previous year: EUR 654.7 million). As compared to the same period of the previous year, this represents growth of EUR 68.8 million and 10.5%. The strong increase in sales volume was linked to a disproportionately high increase in earnings for SAF-HOLLAND. Adjusted EBIT improved by 20.1% to EUR 55.6 million (previous year: EUR 46.3 million). In relation to higher total sales, an adjusted EBIT margin of 7.7% (previous year: 7.1%) was achieved.

SALES DEVELOPMENT BY REGION

Q1-Q3/2013
379.7 52.5% 338.6 51.7%
270.1 37.3% 263.2 40.2%
73.7 10.2% 52.9 8.1%
723.5 100% 654.7 100%
Q1-Q3/2014

SALES DEVELOPMENT BY REGION

EUR million Q3/2014 Q3/2013
Europe 118.5 49.1% 111.6 50.9%
North America 95.2 39.4% 88.0 40.2%
Other 27.8 11.5% 19.5 8.9%
Total 241.5 100% 219.1 100%

In Europe, we were able to further increase business volume in the third quarter despite the weaker industry environment. From July to September, sales increased by 6.2% to EUR 118.5 million (previous year: EUR 111.6 million). In the first nine months, sales generated on the European market rose to EUR 379.7 million (previous year: EUR 338.6 million). Compared to the previous year period, this corresponds to growth of EUR 41.1 million and 12.1%. The region represented roughly half of the Group's sales and thus once again confirmed its position as a key driver of sales for SAF-HOLLAND.

Sales also increased in North America in the reporting period. We generated sales of EUR 95.2 million in the third quarter (previous year: EUR 88.0 million). Over a nine-month period, SAF-HOLLAND had sales in the region of EUR 270.1 million (previous year: 263.2 million). Over the course of the year, North American sales figures are characterized by unfavorable currency relations in the translation of the Canadian dollar and the US dollar into the Group currency euro. Adjusted for currency effects, sales in North America in the first nine months of the year reached EUR 278.1 million, an increase of 5.7%.

Financial Position and Financial Performance

From January to September, outside the core markets of North America and Europe, we achieved sales totaling EUR 73.7 million (previous year: EUR 52.9 million). In addition to organic growth, the newly-added Corpco Beijing Technology and Development Co., Ltd. also contributed to the strong increase. The company, which is specialized in suspension systems for buses, has been included in the scope of consolidation since January 2014. Our overall activities in China once again developed positively. In Brazil, sales were below the level of the previous year due to the poor market situation. On the cost side, on the other hand, we made further progress so that we could achieve an improvement in earnings in the first half of 2015.

INCOME STATEMENT
EUR million Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013
Sales 723.5 100% 654.7 100%
Cost of sales -587.5 -81.2% -533.4 -81.5%
Gross profit 136.0 18.8% 121.3 18.5%
Other income 0.8 0.1% 1.5 0.2%
Selling expenses -42.8 -5.9% -41.0 -6.2%
Administrative expenses -32.5 -4.5% -27.8 -4.2%
Research and development costs -14.7 -2.0% -14.2 -2.2%
Operating result 46.8 6.5% 39.8 6.1%
Finance result -5.1 -0.7% -12.2 -1.9%
Share of net profit of investments accounted for using the equity method 0.9 0.1% -0.1 0.0%
Result before tax 42.6 5.9% 27.5 4.2%
Income tax -13.9 -1.9% -9.4 -1.4%
Result for the period 28.7 4.0% 18.1 2.8%
Number of shares1) 45,361,112 45,361,112
Earnings per share in EUR 0.63 0.40
1) Weighted average number of ordinary 
shares.

__ Result for the period increased by approximately 60%

In the Group, the expansion of sales led to an increase in gross profit to EUR 136.0 million (previous year: EUR 121.3 million). The gross margin improved to 18.8% (previous year: 18.5%). Both our selling expenses and expenditures for research and development were approximately at the level of the previous year. In a comparison of the increased administrative expenses in the previous year, it should be noted that in 2013 this position was relieved due to the increased capitalized internal contribution in the context of our global IT harmonization. In order to retain managers for the company over the long term and to allow them to participate in the success of the company, SAF-HOLLAND established a phantom share program in financial year 2010. With requirements for minimum company return and share price development, the program, set to run until 2015, is linked to two conditions. Because these conditions will likely be met in the current financial year, a provision of EUR 1.4 million has been made. In relation to total sales, the share of administrative expenses remains at just above 4%.

The result before tax increased by more than 50% to EUR 42.6 million in the reporting period (previous year: EUR 27.5 million). The higher operating result of EUR 46.8 million (previous year: EUR 39.8 million) showed an effect. In addition, the significantly better finance result of EUR -5.1 million (previous year: EUR -12.2 million) which, in addition to operational improvements, was also positively influenced by exchange rate gains contributed to this development. With an increase of nearly 60%, the result for the period reached EUR 28.7 million following EUR 18.1 million in the prior year period.

EUR million Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013 Q3/2014 Q3/2013
Result for the period 28.7 18.1 11.1 5.1
Income tax 13.9 9.4 6.0 2.6
Finance result 5.1 12.2 -0.8 6.4
Depreciation and amortization from PPA 4.5 4.6 1.5 1.5
Restructuring and integration costs 3.4 1)
2.0
1.3 0.9
Adjusted EBIT 55.6 46.3 19.1 16.5
as a percentage of sales 7.7 7.1 7.9 7.5
Depreciation and amortization 9.8 8.8 3.3 1.9
Adjusted EBITDA 65.4 55.1 22.4 18.4
as a percentage of sales 9.0 8.4 9.3 8.4
Depreciation and amortization -9.8 -8.8 -3.3 -1.9
Finance result -5.1 -12.2 0.9 -6.4
Adjusted result before taxes 50.5 34.1 20.0 10.1
Income tax -15.5 2)
-10.5
3)
-6.1 -3.1
Adjusted result for the period 35.0 23.6 13.9 7.0
as a percentage of sales 4.8 3.6 5.8 3.2
Number of shares4) 45,361,112 45,361,112 45,361,112 45,361,112
Adjusted EPS in EUR 0.77 5)
0.52
5)
0.31
0.15

RECONCILIATION OF ADJUSTED EARNINGS FIGURES

1) Restructuring and integration costs include aperiodic expenses of kEUR 220.

2) In the calculation of the adjusted result for the period, a uniform tax rate of 30.70% was assumed.

3) In the calculation to the adjusted result for the period, a uniform tax rate of 30.80% was assumed.

4) Weighted average number of ordinary shares. 5) Adjusted earnings per share calculations

include minority results.

__ Increase in adjusted EBIT margin to 7.7%

Adjusted EBIT of EUR 55.6 million (previous year: EUR 46.3 million) and the adjusted EBIT margin which improved to 7.7% (previous year: 7.1%) reflect both the increased business volume as well as effects from the improved cost discipline. Due primarily to the plant consolidation in the Trailer Systems Business Unit, restructuring costs totaled EUR 3.4 million (previous year: EUR 2.0 million) and were with EUR 0.4 million slightly above our expectations.

Adjusted earnings before taxes increased in the reporting period to EUR 50.5 million (previous year: EUR 34.1 million); adjusted result for the period was EUR 35.0 million (previous year: EUR 23.6 million). Adjusted earnings per share increased significantly to EUR 0.77 (previous year: EUR 0.52) while the number of shares on which this figure is based remained unchanged at 45.4 million shares.

Financial Position and Financial Performance

Performance of the Business Units

OVERVIEW OF THE BUSINESS UNITS

Powered Vehicle
Systems
Aftermarket
Adjustments /
Trailer Systems
Business Unit
Business Unit Business Unit eliminations Total
EUR million Q1-Q3
2014
Q1-Q3
2013
Q1-Q3
2014
Q1-Q3
2013
Q1-Q3
2014
Q1-Q3
2013
Q1-Q3
2014
Q1-Q3
2013
Q1-Q3
2014
Q1-Q3
2013
Sales 414.1 373.1 122.9 109.8 186.5 171.8 723.5 654.7
Cost of sales -373.9 -338.1 -101.9 -90.5 -132.4 -124.0 20.7 19.2 -587.5 -533.4
Gross profit 40.2 35.0 21.0 19.3 54.1 47.8 20.7 19.2 136.0 121.3
as a percentage
of sales
9.7 9.4 17.1 17.6 29.0 27.8 18.8 18.5
Other income and
expense
-23.0 -25.3 -12.9 -9.9 -23.8 -20.6 -20.7 -19.2 -80.4 -75.0
Adjusted EBIT 17.2 9.7 8.1 9.4 30.3 27.2 55.6 46.3
as a percentage
of sales
4.2 2.6 6.6 8.6 16.2 15.8 7.7 7.1

__ Trailer Systems: Clear progress in profitability

The Trailer Systems Business Unit increased its sales in the first three quarters by EUR 41.0 million to EUR 414.1 million (previous year: EUR 373.1 million). As SAF-HOLLAND's largest business segment, it thus generated 57.2% of Group sales (previous year: 57.0%). In North America, Trailer Systems was able to take advantage of strong market growth while further utilizing its production capacities in Warrenton which were doubled in 2013. The business in Europe also developed positively but was impacted by the effects of the Ukraine crisis: Large trailer manufacturers for which SAF-HOLLAND is a major supplier are exporting fewer vehicles to Russia and to Ukraine. This also limits our sales opportunities.

The Trailer Systems Business Unit made considerable progress on the earnings side. Gross profit grew to EUR 40.2 million (previous year: EUR 35.0 million). Guarantee costs included in cost of sales decreased further and were within the framework of our expectations. In adjusted EBIT, growth of about 80% to EUR 17.2 million (previous year: EUR 9.7 million) was achieved and the adjusted EBIT margin increased to 4.2% (previous year: 2.6%) as a result. The favorable earnings development was positively influenced by the results achieved in the initiatives for improving profitability. We intend to increase the adjusted EBIT margin for the business segment to about 6% by the end of 2015. Therefore, a comprehensive package of measures is being implemented. More detailed information is available on page 14.

At the IAA Commercial Vehicles trade fair, German trailer manufacturers presented their own axles, as expected. The decision by trailer OEMs for captive production in addition to axles purchased from suppliers is not necessarily a disadvantage for SAF-HOLLAND. This applies especially due to the fact that a manufacturer intends to offer their own products in only a few variations in the standard segment. We evaluate the expected further consolidation in the European supplier market for commercial vehicles as generally positive.

__ Powered Vehicle Systems: Sales volume sustainably expanded

In the Powered Vehicle Systems Business Unit, sales in the first nine months of the year increased by 11.9% to EUR 122.9 million (previous year: EUR 109.8 million).

Sales volume in the reporting period increased in both North America and in the European market. Not least as a result of exports and innovative product solutions, the European operation of the Business Unit located in Singen was well utilized in the third quarter.

Gross profit of the Powered Vehicle Systems Business Unit in the first nine months of the year reached EUR 21.0 million (previous year: EUR 19.3 million), which in relation to the higher sales, corresponds to a nearly unchanged gross margin of 17.1% (previous year: 17.6%). Adjusted EBIT in the reporting period amounted to EUR 8.1 million (previous year: EUR 9.4 million), the adjusted EBIT margin was 6.6% (previous year: 8.6%). The earnings figures, which were weaker than the prior-year period as expected, reflect the unfavorable customer and product mix in the first quarter and seasonal influences from the Corpco integration. Activities in the bus segment which are part of Powered Vehicle Systems developed well. Corpco is now delivering, as standard supplier, suspension systems for nine-meter buses for a leading Chinese bus manufacturer and a large Japanese OEM has specified our products as standard equipment in its new export model.

__ Aftermarket: Additional potential from second brands

In the Aftermarket business, sales from January to September increased to EUR 186.5 million (previous year: EUR 171.8 million). Gross profit for the Business Unit reached EUR 54.1 million (previous year: EUR 47.8 million); adjusted EBIT was EUR 30.3 million (previous year: EUR 27.2 million). In relation to sales, an adjusted EBIT margin of 16.2% (previous year: 15.8%) was achieved.

In terms of sales and earnings the business segment benefited from contributions from our second brand product range, SAUER Quality Parts, which was established in 2012. In addition, the spare parts product range is currently being expanded with the GoldLine second brand, which is scheduled to be launched on the American market in the first quarter of 2015. Both brands are targeted toward markets in which vehicles with a high service age and high traveling distances are in use. The demand for original spare parts is still limited in these markets and as a consequence additional sales potential could be realized via the second brands. From a geographical point of view, SAUER Quality Parts target primarily the Asian countries, regions in the Middle East and Eastern European countries. GoldLine, on the other hand, with its special specifications, primarily addresses the North, Central and South American Aftermarkets.

The enhancement of the global service network in the Aftermarket Business Unit was continued in the reporting period. One focus was the expansion of our activities in Dubai. On new grounds, large storage and assembly capacities will be created there and three times the previous space is being made available for the Aftermarket activities of the existing Parts Distribution Center (PDC).

Financial Position and Financial Performance

FINANCIAL SITUATION

Corporate financing once again sustainably optimized

The corporate financing of SAF-HOLLAND has the goal to secure the long-term growth course of the Group. Adequate financing conditions and a high degree of flexibility are the core requirements. In 2012, the financing structure was optimized and diversified as SAF-HOLLAND used other sources of financing besides liabilities to banks. In the course of these efforts, a corporate bond was issued two years ago. In a further step, convertible bonds with a total nominal value of EUR 100.2 million have now been issued. Information on the placement, which was conducted in September 2014, can be found on pages 8 and 15.

With these convertible bonds, with a maturity in 2020, SAF-HOLLAND is taking advantage of the opportunity to benefit from the current low interest phase over a longer period of time.

A majority of the proceeds from the emission were spent in the reporting period in order to further pay down our bank loans. In September, an existing loan in the amount of EUR 80.9 million was repaid ahead of schedule. In addition, we had begun the renegotiation of the remaining credit lines, which was concluded after publication of the report. From October 2014, SAF-HOLLAND now has a credit line with a maturity in 2019 in the amount of EUR 109.8 million which, in addition to considerably improved interest rate conditions and covenants, gives the Group increased financial headroom.

Further details on this can be found in the Events After The Balance Sheet Date section on page 24.

Liquidity: Net working capital higher as expected

Cash flow before change of net working capital increased in the reporting period to EUR 62.5 million (previous year: EUR 54.8 million). As expected, net working capital increased further and on September 30, 2014 was at EUR 117.1 million (previous year: EUR 79.2 million). Calculated over twelve months, this represents a share of 12.1% (previous year: 9.0%). Significant influences include an expanded inventory volume which, on the one hand, is related to the increased business volume and, on the other hand to the ongoing plant consolidation: With a view to the upcoming machine and equipment move from Wörth to Bessenbach, we are intentionally establishing contingents of pre-fabricated components which requires a corresponding contingent of materials. In addition, trade receivables increased in the course of the expansion of business. Overall, cash flow from operating activities before income tax payments totaled EUR 21.4 million (previous year: EUR 48.9 million).

Cash flow from investing activities amounted to EUR -20.9 million (previous year: EUR -18.1 million), influenced primarily by the Corpco acquisition. In cash flow from financing activities of EUR 15.9 million (previous year: EUR -15.7 million) payments from the emission of the convertible bonds in the amount of EUR 100.2 million have been taken into consideration. This was countered by the dividend payment totaling EUR 12.2 million and, in particular, the repayment of existing bank loans in a total amount of EUR 64.3 million.

Investments in production, spare parts distribution and information technology

Our spending for investments was above the level of the previous year as planned. SAF-HOLLAND's total investments in the Group from January to September amounted to EUR 21.2 million (previous year: EUR 17.7 million), corresponding to an investment ratio of 2.9% (previous year: 2.7%). The expanded investment volume is influenced by the acquisition of Corpco. In addition, initial investments in the new Parts Distribution Center (PDC) as well as expenditures within the scope of the plant consolidation in Europe also had an impact. With a view to the possible consolidation of the North American locations in the coming year, we also anticipate a higher level of investment for 2015.

In the IT environment, we continued to invest in additions to our global systems. Advanced Planner & Optimizer (APO), an IT solution used in Europe, is currently also being implemented in North America. The project is scheduled for completion over the course of the next year. The implementation of a new reporting software is also planned for 2015. With this software, planning and consolidation in the Group will in future run on a single platform which will lead to a higher degree of transparency and planning benefits.

ASSETS

Equity increased

As of September 30, 2014, equity rose to EUR 252.1 million (December 31, 2013: EUR 222.2 million). Growth from the positive earnings development was countered by a reduction in retained earnings of EUR 12.2 million in the course of the dividend payment. The equity ratio on the balance sheet date was 39.1% (December 31, 2013: 41.4%; September 30, 2013: 37.8%).

Asset structure: External financing further reduced

As of September 30, 2014, the balance sheet total rose to EUR 645.1 million (December 31, 2013: EUR 536.4 million). Non-current assets increased to EUR 348.7 million (December 31, 2013: EUR 329.2 million) due primarily to a higher balance sheet value of property, plant and equipment of EUR 112.2 million (December 31, 2013: EUR 100.6 million).

Current assets also increased, totaling EUR 296.4 million on the balance sheet date (December 31, 2013: EUR 207.3 million). The increase can be attributed primarily to changes in trade receivables and inventories. Trade receivables increased as a result of the expanded business volume to EUR 130.0 million (December 31, 2013: EUR 76.1 million). In addition, current assets were influenced by the higher cash and cash equivalents.

Inventories, which increased by approximately a quarter, are primarily related to the increased business volume as well as the plant consolidation and the associated transfer of the plant in Wörth to the location in Bessenbach. In order to ensure that the move does not burden production, we are intentionally producing larger amounts of the products manufactured in Wörth in advance. As of September 30, 2014, inventories were at EUR 125.5 million (December 31, 2013: EUR 100.2 million).

Non-current liabilities of EUR 250.5 million (December 31, 2013: EUR 197.9 million) are influenced in particular by changes to interest bearing loans and borrowings. As of September 30, 2014, this position was at EUR 178.4 million (December 31, 2013: EUR 132.0 million). Included here is a share of EUR 96.3 million which is attributable to our convertible bonds which were issued in September. On the reporting date, non-current interest bearing bank loans reached EUR 10.5 million (December 31, 2013: EUR 60.2 million).

Financial Position and Financial Performance

Current liabilities of EUR 142.5 million (December 31, 2013: EUR 116.3 million) were influenced by two counteracting developments. Thus, the current loans and borrowings declined by EUR 12.8 million due to the issue of the convertible bonds, whereas trade payables were up to EUR 106.4 million (December 31, 2013: EUR 79.3 million) over the course of the year as a result of the increased business volume.

Overall, liabilities from interest bearing bank loans and borrowings amounted to EUR 180.4 million (December 31, 2013: EUR 146.9 million). On September 30, SAF-HOLLAND held cash and cash equivalents totaling EUR 32.2 million (December 31, 2013: EUR 23.9 million). Net debt on the same reporting date totaled EUR 148.2 million (December 31, 2013: EUR 123.0 million). Including the agreed credit facility, a total liquidity of EUR 126.8 million (December 31, 2013: EUR 142.1 million) was reported.

TABLE SUMMARIZING THE DETERMINATION OF OVERALL LIQUIDITY

09/30/2014
kEUR Amount drawn valued
as of the period-end
exchange rate
Agreed credit
lines valued as of
the period-end
exchange rate
Cash and cash
equivalents
Total liquidity
Facility A1
Facility A2
Facility B1 7,999 68,000 32,223 92,224
Facility B2 31,915 31,915
Other credit lines 2,508 1)
5,124
2,616
Total 10,507 105,039 32,223 126,755

1) New bilateral credit line for the activities of the Group in China.

2) Changed determination of overall liquidity compared to financial year 2013. See explanations under note 12 of the consolidated financial statements.

09/30/20132) kEUR Amount drawn valued as of the period-end exchange rate Agreed credit lines valued as of the period-end exchange rate Cash and cash equivalents Total liquidity Facility A1 64,730 64,730 – – Facility A2 13,611 19,611 – 6,000 Facility B1 707 80,000 23,037 102,330 Facility B2 382 36,985 – 36,604 Total 79,430 201,327 23,037 144,934

Number of employees nearly unchanged

Worldwide, SAF-HOLLAND had an average of 3,374 employees (previous year: 3,085) in the Group in the first three quarters. On September 30, 2014, 3,355 people were employed by the company, including temporary workers (previous year: 3,130). Sales per employee increased to kEUR 214.5 in the reporting period (previous year: kEUR 212.2).

DEVELOPMENT OF EMPLOYEE NUMBERS BY REGION

09/30/2014 09/30/2013
Europe 1,210 1,190
North America 1,537 1,532
Other 608 408
Total 3,355 3,130

With the inclusion of the Chinese company Corpco the number of employees increased by 160 employees as of September 30, 2014. In order to be able to flexibly adjust the personnel structures in Europe to market developments, SAF-HOLLAND, in addition to its permanent workforce, generally also makes use of the opportunity presented by the use of temporary worker contracts and operational flextime models.

The majority of the total workforce was employed by our North American subsidiaries as of September 30, 2014 with 46% (previous year: 49%). 36% percent of the workforce belonged to the European organization (previous year: 38%) while a further 18% (previous year: 13%) belonged to our locations outside the two core markets.

In order to retain managers for the company over the long term and to allow them to participate in the success of the company, SAF-HOLLAND established a phantom share program in financial year 2010. With requirements for minimum company return and share price development, the program, set to run until 2015, is linked to two conditions. Because these conditions will likely be met in the current financial year, a provision of EUR 1.4 million was made in 2014.

R&D activities: Innovations for the success of fleet customers

Our research and development activities are geared toward the success of our fleet customers. In addition to pioneering innovations, technological adaptations of the products to regional customer wishes and market requirements are a key focus.

Among our R&D focus points are new developments for the optimization of transportation efficiency. Efforts in this regard are focused on weight reductions which allow for an increase in the vehicle load and a decrease in fuel consumption. Beyond that, aspects such as durability, driving safety and ease of maintenance are also key.

We presented innovations for customers from Europe and bordering regions at the world's largest trade fair for commercial vehicles, the IAA Commercial Vehicles trade fair in Hannover, Germany. You will find more information on our IAA presence and the product innovations showed there on page 13.

From January to September, we invested a total of EUR 16.6 million in research and development (previous year: EUR 14.8 million). In relation to Group sales, an R&D ratio of 2.3 % (previous year: 2.3%) was achieved. The share of capitalized development costs reached EUR 1.9 million (previous year: EUR 0.6 million).

OPPORTUNITIES AND RISK REPORT

Compared with the opportunities and risk profile at the end of financial year 2013, as outlined in the annual report, the Group has recorded no changes. Overall, the risks are manageable and sufficient provisions have been made for known risks.

EVENTS AFTER THE BALANCE SHEET DATE

In October 2014, SAF-HOLLAND repaid the credit line of EUR 121.4 million that was in place until June 30, 2014 ahead of schedule and replaced it with a new financing agreement with a total scope of EUR 109.8 million. The early refinancing brings significant advantages. The new syndicated loan runs two years longer than the redeemed agreement. In addition, more favorable framework conditions and covenants were agreed with the new, smaller group of banks. As a result of the lower interest rate, interest rate savings of approximately EUR 2.0 million per year have been achieved for SAF-HOLLAND through this transaction as well as by the issue of the convertible bond.

Financial Position and Financial Performance Oppurtunities and Risk Report Events after the Balance Sheet Date Outlook

With the emission of the convertible bonds and the early refinancing, SAF-HOLLAND now has a financing structure that has been further optimized and which consists of corporate bond, convertible bond and credit lines. The growth course of the company has thus been secured over the long term: The corporate bond has a maturity in April 2018, the new credit line in October 2019 and the convertible bonds are due in September 2020. In addition, SAF-HOLLAND benefits from an increase in financial headroom.

OPTIMIZED FINANCING STRUCTURE

Current financing structure Previous financing structure
Convertible bonds Revolving
credit line
Corporate bond Term loan A1) Revolving
credit line
Corporate bond
100.2
EUR million
109.8
EUR million
75.0
EUR million
65.2
EUR million
121.4
EUR million
75.0
EUR million
Term 09/2020 Term 10/2019 Term 04/2018 Term 10/2017 Term 10/2017 Term 04/2018

1) The financing agreement Term loan A was redeemed in September 2014 with proceeds from the emission of the convertible bonds.

OUTLOOK

Global economy benefits from established national economies

Primarily with a view to the dampened growth dynamic of the emerging economies, the Institute for World Economy (IfW) corrected its forecasts for the development of the global economy slightly downward in September. An increase in global production of 3.2% in 2014 and of 3.7% in 2015 is now being predicted. Global trade is expected to increase by 3.0% this year and by 4.5% in the following year. The assessments of the IfW are based on the condition that geopolitical crises do not worsen, that tensions in the financial markets are limited in terms of time or region and that the oil price as well as exchange rates maintain the current level.

According to the IfW, early indicators show that the global economy could potentially gain steam in the second half of 2014. Any potential improvements, however, would not have a broad geographical basis. In the view of the IfW, they will be buoyed primarily by the established national economies and by the United States in particular.

In the Euro zone, the upward economic development is continuing according to the IfW. In the current year, production growth will initially be lower, however, due to the conflict in Ukraine, among other things. For 2015, the institute anticipates an acceleration in European economic activity as doubts regarding the continuing existence of the currency union recede and consolidation processes in the Euro crisis countries move forward. According to the forecasts, the economy in the United States will develop at a considerably faster pace than in Europe – both in 2014 and in 2015. In the process, gross domestic product is expected to increase at a greater rate in the coming year than in this year.

In terms of the BRIC countries, China once again leads the way from an economic perspective. As a result of declining impetus from the financial policy, the country's economy will grow at a slower pace than has previously been the case, but will continue to reach growth rates of at least 7%. Rising investments and economic reforms are driving the economy in India, so that production activity here will likely grow faster than the global average. In Brazil, on the other hand, structural problems continue to be a burden, which will likely level out the fostering effects of rising raw material prices. For 2014, the IfW expects an increase in production of just 0.1% in the South American country. If the newly-elected government can manage to implement reforms and eliminate the modernization bottleneck, the Brazilian economy should pick up steam once again from 2016. The Russian economy will also see limited expansion in the near-term. Here, political tensions within the scope of differences with Ukraine are a burden which, in the view of the IfW, will only begin to dissipate slowly in 2015.

PREDICTED ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN IMPORTANT MARKETS

2014 2015
European Union 1.2% 1.6%
Euro zone 0.7% 1.3%
Germany 1.4% 1.9%
United States 2.0% 3.0%
Brazil 0.1% 2.0%
Russia 0.2% 0.5%
India 5.4% 6.0%
China 7.3% 7.0%

Source: Institute for World Economy (IfW), Global Economy in Fall 2014 (September 2014)

Industry trend: strong growth in North America

Compared with the first half of 2014, the mood in some commercial vehicle markets has become bleaker; from a longer term perspective, however, the industry outlook continues to be positive. A current analysis from A.T. Kearney expects that the global market for medium and heavy trucks will grow by an annual rate of 4.8% until 2020.

In the current year, according to the VDA (German Automotive Industry Association), it is expected that 3 million commercial vehicles will be sold worldwide, an increase of 1% as compared to the previous year. In Europe, where investments in the modernization of fleets have been postponed for years, there is still a significant pent-up demand. With improved framework conditions, the market recovery should therefore continue. In terms of the trailer segment, the ACT Research continues to anticipate a dynamic upward development of the European market. In the current year, accordingly, 16.7% more trailers will be registered for the first time in Western Europe than in 2013.

On the basis of the strong development in the third quarter, the forecasts for the North American market were once again raised strongly. For heavy trucks in class 8, ACT Research now expects growth of 21.4% in production figures in the current year followed by 4.7% in the coming year. For class 7 vehicles, production in 2014 will increase by 6.3% and in 2015 by 3.6%. All signs continue to point to expansion in the trailer segment as well. According to calculations from ACT Research, 264,062 trailers will be built in North America in 2014 – 12.4% more than in the previous year. Promising perspectives are being provided in the USA by the planned reindustrialization in particular as well as the recovery in the construction sector. In order to create the conditions necessary for this, US President Barack Obama wants to invest USD 302 billion annually over the next four years in infrastructure projects. This will benefit the commercial vehicles market in particular through increased transport volumes. On the contrary, the spending for defense costs is reduced by the US government for this year.

Within the BRIC group, demand in Brazil and Russia will not intensify or to only a limited extent. In China, the world's largest commercial vehicles market, volume is expected to increase by 5% this year. For the Indian market, which has been growing once again since February 2014, the manufacturer's association SIAM is predicting further growth: In financial year 2015, the Outlook

full market will increase by up to 3%. Good perspectives are also offered by the market segments that are addressed by SAF-HOLLAND. For medium and heavy trucks, SIAM expects an increase of between 5 and 9%. Forecasts call for an increase of up to 4% in the bus sector. The upward development is being driven for the most part by infrastructure projects. The Indian government wants to expand the road network by 30 kilometers per day. In addition, in financial year 2014/2015, about USD 1.2 billion will be invested in 100 so-called smart cities. As exemplary cities, they feature, among other things, efficient mass transit systems in which buses play a major role.

Growth strategy with three areas of focus

The key areas of our growth strategy remain the North American trailer market, the global Aftermarket business and the activities in emerging commercial vehicles markets such as the BRIC countries.

There are very promising opportunities for SAF-HOLLAND in North America. With our axle production capacities which were doubled in 2013 and which are now gradually being utilized, SAF-HOLLAND is well-positioned for a further expansion of its market position.

The Aftermarket business is an ideal complement to our original equipment activities. The global availability of spare parts through the global service network offers fleet operators an incentive to specify SAF-HOLLAND products when acquiring new vehicles. And, conversely, the Aftermarket business benefits from the strong market position of our OEM products. In order to expand the mutual advantages, we are further expanding the spare parts business globally. The second brands SAUER Quality Parts and GoldLine provide additional impetus in this regard.

Growing transport volumes and further developed infrastructure increase demand for trucks and trailers in emerging markets such as the BRIC countries. Through intensified activities and regionally adjusted products, we tap into further sales markets and accelerate early market penetration.

GENERAL STATEMENT ON FUTURE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

In North America, demand is increasing considerably. In Europe, the market tends to be weaker at this time due to the trouble spots in Syria and Ukraine but strong pent-up demand for investments in trucks and trailers nevertheless remains. On the basis of the positive business development in the first three quarters, we are confident that we will be able to reach the goals we have set for financial year 2014.

Assuming that the overall economic and industry specific framework conditions do not worsen, we confirm the forecast for the full year as laid out in March of this year. For financial year 2014, SAF-HOLLAND thereby strives to achieve Group sales between EUR 920 and 945 million – with adjusted EBIT of approximately EUR 70 million and a rising adjusted EBIT margin.

The mid-term target introduced in December 2013 also remains unchanged. For financial year 2015, SAF-HOLLAND thereby continues to plan Group sales of EUR 980 million to EUR 1.035 billion and an adjusted EBIT margin of 9 to 10%.

028 Consolidated Interim Financial Statements

  • 030 Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
  • 031 Consolidated Balance Sheet

034

  • 032 Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
  • 033 Consolidated Cash Flow Statement

Notes to the Consolidated Interim Financial Statements

1 Corporate Information 2 Significant Accounting Policies 3 Seasonal Effects 4 Scope of Consolidation 5 Segment Information 6 Administrative Expenses 7 Finance Result 8 Income Taxes 9 Cash and Cash Equivalents 10 Equity 11 Earnings per Share 12 Interest Bearing Loans and Borrowings 13 Financial Assets and Other Financial Liabilities 14 Related Party Disclosures 15 Cash Flow Statement 16 Events After the Balance Sheet Date

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

kEUR Notes Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013 Q3/2014 Q3/2013
Result for the period
Sales (5) 723,531 654,693 241,567 219,135
Cost of sales -587,510 -533,409 -196,324 -178,193
Gross profit 136,021 121,284 45,243 40,942
Other income 831 1,491 518 591
Selling expenses -42,799 -41,018 -14,312 -13,636
Administrative expenses -32,573 -27,750 -10,790 -9,501
Research and development costs -14,704 -14,209 -4,899 -4,650
Operating result (5) 46,776 39,798 15,760 13,746
Finance income (6) 6,190 315 4,859 -1,035
Finance expenses (6) -11,335 -12,512 -4,045 -5,279
Share of net profit of investments accounted for
using the equity method
933 -77 525 304
Result before tax 42,564 27,524 17,099 7,736
Income tax (7) -13,822 -9,411 -5,906 -2,632
Result for the period 28,742 18,113 11,193 5,104
Attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent 28,767 18,113 11,190 5,104
Non-controlling interests -25 3
Other comprehensive income
Items that may be reclassifed subsequently to profit or loss
Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations (9) 7,996 -6,671 5,914 -3,710
Changes in fair values of derivatives designated as hedges,
recognized in equity
(6)/(9) 1,439 2,347 865 366
Income tax effects on items recognized directly in other
comprehensive income
(9) -392 -639 -235 -101
Other comprehensive income 9,043 -4,963 6,544 -3,445
Comprehensive income for the period 37,785 13,150 17,737 1,659
Attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent 37,810 13,150 17,734 1,659
Non-controlling interests -25 3
Basic and diluted earnings per share in EUR (10) 0.63 0.40 0.24 0.11

002 Company 012 Group Interim Management Report 028 Consolidated Interim Financial Statements

031

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income Consolidated Balance Sheet

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

kEUR Notes 09/30/2014 12/31/2013
Assets
Non-current assets 348,718 329,166
Goodwill 48,305 45,404
Intangible assets 140,590 139,118
Property, plant, and equipment 112,170 100,605
Investments accounted for using the equity method 10,790 9,829
Other non-current assets 2,818 2,879
Deferred tax assets 34,045 31,331
Current assets 296,343 207,270
Inventories 125,511 100,223
Trade receivables (12) 130,010 76,088
Income tax assets 863 498
Other current assets 7,586 6,590
Financial assets (12) 150 15
Cash and cash equivalents (8)/(12) 32,223 23,856
Total assets 645,061 536,436
Equity and liabilities
Total equity (9) 252,084 222,186
Equity attributable to equity holders of the parent 250,549 222,186
Subscribed share capital 454 454
Share premium 268,644 265,843
Legal reserve 45 22
Other reserve 436 436
Retained earnings -4,649 -21,145
Accumulated other comprehensive income -14,381 -23,424
Shares of non-controlling interests 1,535
Non-current liabilities 250,492 197,906
Pensions and other similar benefits 25,713 25,433
Other provisions 6,919 6,140
Interest bearing loans and borrowings (11)/(12) 178,355 131,994
Finance lease liabilities (12) 1,822 1,887
Other financial liabilities (12) 205
Other liabilities 562 657
Deferred tax liabilities 37,121 31,590
Current liabilities 142,485 116,344
Other provisions 7,890 6,450
Interest bearing loans and borrowings (11)/(12) 2,032 14,869
Finance lease liabilities (12) 364 350
Trade payables (12) 106,420 79,253
Income tax liabilities 6,064 2,107
Other liabilities 19,715 13,315
Total equity and liabilities 645,061 536,436

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

Q3/2014
Attributable to equity holders of the parent
kEUR Sub
scribed
share
capital
Share
premium
Legal
reserve
Other
reserve
Retained
earnings
Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income
Total
amount
Shares
of non
controlling
interests
Total equity
(Note 9)
As of 01/01/2014 454 265,843 22 436 -21,145 -23,424 222,186 222,186
Comprehensive
income for the period
28,767 9,043 37,810 -25 37,785
Dividend -12,248 -12,248 -12,248
Other reclassifications 23 -23
Addition of shares
of non-controlling
interests
1,560 1,560
Convertible bond 2,801 2,801 2,801
As of 09/30/2014 454 268,644 45 436 -4,649 -14,381 250,549 1,535 252,084
Q3/2013
Attributable to equity holders of the parent
kEUR Subscribed
share capital
Share
premium
Legal
reserve
Other
reserve
Retained
earnings
Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income
Total equity
(Note 9)
As of 01/01/2013 454 265,843 22 436 -45,510 -23,382 197,863
Comprehensive
income for the period
18,113 -4,963 13,150
As of 09/30/2013 454 265,843 22 436 -27,397 -28,345 211,013

002 Company 012 Group Interim Management Report 02( Consolidated Interim Financial Statements

046 Additional Information

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity Consolidated Cash Flow Statement

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT

kEUR Notes Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013
Cash flow from operating activities
Result before tax 42,564 27,524
- Finance income (6) -6,190 -315
+ Finance expenses (6) 11,335 12,512
- Share of net profit of investments accounted for using the equity method -933 77
+ Amortization, depreciation of intangible assets and property, plant, and equipment 14,353 13,349
+ Allowance of current assets 1,138 1,366
+/- Loss/Gain on disposal of property, plant, and equipment 235 4
+ Dividends from investments accounted for using the equity method 17 253
Cash flow before change of net working capital 62,519 54,770
+/- Change in other provisions and pensions -43 -292
+/- Change in inventories -18,340 -7,909
+/- Change in trade receivables and other assets -44,052 1)
1)
-12,983
+/- Change in trade payables and other liabilities 21,271 15,364
Cash flow from operating activities before income tax paid 21,355 48,950
- Income tax paid (7) -8,568 -10,535
Net cash flow from operating activities 12,787 38,415
Cash flow from investing activities
- Purchase of property, plant, and equipment -13,880 -9,791
- Purchase of intangible assets -2,819 -7,923
+/- Purchase /Sale/ Winding up of at equity investments -798
+ Proceeds from sales of property, plant, and equipment 218 302
- Acquisition of subsidiaries net of cash (4) -4,490
+ Interest received 69 113
Net cash flow from investing activities -20,902 -18,097
Cash flow from financing activities
+ Proceeds current and non-current financial liabilities 14,000
- Payments for expenses relating to amended finance agreement -226
- Dividend payments to shareholders of SAF-HOLLAND S.A. (9) -12,248
- Paid transaction costs relating to the issue of the convertible bond -771
+ Proceeds from convertible blond placement (9)/(11) 100,200
- Payments for replacement interest swaps -1,142
- Payments for finance lease -266 -123
- Interest paid -9,100 -6,282
- Repayments of current and non-current financial liabilities (11) -64,275 -7,059
+/- Change in drawings on the credit line and other financing activities (11) 3,499 -16,007
Net cash flow from financing activities 15,897 -15,697
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 7,782 4,621
+/- Effect of changes in exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents 585 -163
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period (8) 23,856 18,579
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period (8) 32,223 23,037

1) As of September 30, 2014, trade receivables in the amount of EUR 17.4 million (previous year: EUR 17.7 million) were sold in the context of a factoring contract. Assuming the legal validity of the receivable, no further rights of recourse exist against SAF-HOLLAND from the sold receivables.

Notes to the Consolidated Interim Financial Statements

For the period January 1 to September 30, 2014

CORPORATE INFORMATION 1 _

SAF-HOLLAND S.A. (the "Company") was incorporated on December 21, 2005 under the legal form of a "Société Anonyme" according to Luxembourg law. The registered office of the Company is in Luxembourg. The shares of the Company are listed in the Prime Standard of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. They have been included in the SDAX since 2010.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES 2 _

The consolidated financial statements of SAF-HOLLAND S.A. and its subsidiaries (the "Group") have been prepared in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as adopted by the European Union and in effect as of the closing date.

The consolidated interim financial statements for the third quarter of 2014 have been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 "Interim Financial Reporting". Unless expressly indicated otherwise, the same accounting policies and consolidation methods were applied as in the Group's annual financial statements for the financial year 2013. Therefore, the consolidated interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Group's annual financial statements as of December 31, 2013.

As of January 1, 2014, SAF-HOLLAND S.A. has applied IFRS 10 "Consolidated Financial Statements", IFRS 11 "Joint Arrangements", IFRS 12 "Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities" and the amendment to IAS 28 "Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures". IFRS 10 uses a comprehensive control model to define whether companies are to be included in the consolidated financial statements. IFRS 11 outlines the accounting of joint arrangements and draws on the kind of rights and obligations that result from the arrangement. IFRS 12 stipulates comprehensive disclosure requirements for all types of investments in other companies. The pronouncements were applied retrospectively. The application of the new pronouncements has no effect on the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements. Disclosures in accordance with IFRS 12 will be presented in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the financial year 2014.

In preparing the consolidated interim financial statements, management has to make assumptions and estimates which affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income, expenses, and contingent liabilities as of the reporting date. In certain cases, actual amounts may differ from these assumptions and estimates.

Expenses and income incurred irregularly during the financial year were anticipated or deferred if it would also be appropriate to take them into account at the end of the financial year.

The consolidated interim financial statements and the Group Interim Management Report have neither been audited nor reviewed by an auditing firm.

SEASONAL EFFECTS 3 _

Seasonal effects during the year can result in variations in sales and the resulting profits. Please see the Group Interim Management Report for further details regarding earnings development.

Corporate Information Significant Accounting Policies Seasonal Effects Scope of Consolidation

SCOPE OF CONSOLIDATION 4 _

On January 2, 2014, SAF-HOLLAND GmbH has acquired 80% of voting shares in Corpco Beijing Technology and Development Co., Ltd., a non-listed company headquartered in China and specialized in the manufacture of air suspensions. In the context of the takeover, SAF-HOLLAND GmbH was given a call option for the remaining 20% of the shares which is exercisable for three years following takeover. The call option is accounted for in accordance with the requirements of IAS 39.

The initial consolidation of Corpco Beijing Technology and Development Co., Ltd. was carried out in accordance with IFRS 3 using the acquisition method. The results of the acquired company were included in the Consolidated Financial Statements from the date of acquisition. As of September 30, 2014, the earnings contribution of Corpco Beijing Technology and Development Co., Ltd. was seasonally-induced EUR -0.1 million; the sales thereby generated amounted to EUR 8.5 million.

The preliminary purchase price in the amount of EUR 8.4 million was paid in cash.

The preliminary fair values of the identified assets and liabilities have changed as compared to the description under "Events after the Balance Sheet Date" in the 2013 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. Following a thorough review of the situation, the financial assets as well as a part of cash and cash equivalents were reclassified to trade receivables.

The still preliminary fair values of the identified assets and liabilities were as follows at the time of acquisition:

kEUR Preliminary fair value as of acquisition date
Brand 381
Customer relationship 40
Other intangible assets 63
Property, plant, and equipment 2,358
Deferred tax assets 467
Inventories 4,935
Trade receivables 9,283
Other assets 119
Cash and cash equivalents 3,907
21,553
Deferred tax liabilities 400
Interest bearing loans and borrowings 5,247
Trade payables 6,369
Other liabilities 681
12,697
Total of identified net assets 8,856
Fair value of shares with non-controlling interests -1,560
Goodwill from the acquisition 1,101
Consideration transferred 8,397

Preliminary goodwill in the amount of kEUR 1,101 includes non-separable intangible assets such as employee expertise and expected synergies.

Preliminary fair value of trade receivables amounted to kEUR 9,283 as of the acquisition date. The gross amount of trade receivables amounted to kEUR 9,320. At the acquisition date, receivables in the amount of kEUR 37 were written down.

Non-controlling interest in the acquiree is measured at the proportionate share measured at fair value of the acquiree's identifiable net assets and amounted to kEUR 1,560 as at the acquisition date.

Preliminary cash outflow due to the acquisition of the company is as follows:

kEUR
Cash outflow 8,397
Cash acquired 3,907
Actual cash outflow 4,490

The amount of the final purchase price depends on the amount of net debt, on impairment of inventories and on net working capital on the date of fulfillment of the contract completion conditions. The consideration is currently still determined based on preliminary figures.

There were no further changes to the scope of consolidation compared to the consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2013.

SEGMENT INFORMATION 5 _

For management purposes, the Group is organized into customer-oriented Business Units based on their products and services. The three reportable core segments are the Business Units Trailer Systems, Powered Vehicle Systems, and Aftermarket. There has been no change in the division of segments since December 31, 2013. For more information, please see the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statement for the financial year 2013.

Management assesses the performance of the operating segments based on adjusted EBIT. The reconciliation from operating result to adjusted EBIT is provided as follows:

kEUR Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013
Operating result 46,776 39,798
Share of net profit of investments accounted for using the equity method 933 -77
EBIT 47,709 39,721
Additional depreciation and amortization from PPA 4,537 4,574
Restructuring and integration costs 3,356 1)
2,001
1) Restructuring and integration costs
Adjusted EBIT 55,602 46,296 comprises aperiodic expenses in
amount of kEUR 220.

Scope of Consolidation Segment Information Administrative Expenses Finance Result

Information on segment sales and earnings for the period from January 1 to September 30, 2014:

Q1-Q3/2014
Business Units
kEUR Trailer Systems Powered
Vehicle Systems
Aftermarket Consolidated
Sales 414,117 122,885 186,529 723,531
Adjusted EBIT 17,195 8,129 30,278 55,602
Q1-Q3/20131)
Business Units
kEUR Trailer Systems Powered
Vehicle Systems
Aftermarket Consolidated
Sales 373,151 109,767 171,775 654,693
Adjusted EBIT 9,720 9,417 27,159 46,296

1) The presentation of segment information has changed, see note 4 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 2013.

Please see the Group Interim Management Report regarding earnings development of the segments.

ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES 6 _

The increase in administrative expenses by 17.4% to kEUR 32,573 can be attributed to two effects: On the one hand, administrative expenses in the previous year were relieved by EUR 2.1 million as a result of a higher capitalized internal contribution in the context of our global IT harmonization. On the other hand, this year's administrative expenses have been burdened by additions to provisions in the amount of EUR 1.4 million for the phantom share program introduced in 2010, because the vesting conditions for the phantom share program are expected to be achieved for the first time this year.

FINANCE RESULT 7 _

Finance income and expenses consist of the following:

FINANCE INCOME
kEUR Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013
Foreign exchange gains on foreign currency loans 5,965
Finance income due to derivatives 138
Interest income 87 107
Other 208
Total 6,190 315

Foreign exchange gains on foreign currency loans primarily comprise unrealized foreign exchange gains on foreign currency loans translated at the period-end exchange rate.

Total -11,335 -12,512
Other -361 -1,936
Finance expenses due to derivatives -2,375 -1,632
Finance expenses due to pensions and other similar benefits -730 -1,014
Amortization of transaction costs -651 -553
Interest expenses due to interest bearing loans and borrowings -7,218 1)
-7,377
kEUR Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013
FINANCE EXPENSES

1) Includes the non-cash interest expense of kEUR 31 for the convertible bond.

The amortization of transaction costs of kEUR -651 (previous year: -553) represents the contract closing fees recognized as expenses in the period in accordance with the effective interest method.

Finance expenses in connection with derivative financial instruments mainly include the reclassification to the financial result of the cash flow hedge reserve recorded in equity of kEUR 1,234 through profit or loss. The recycling of the cash flow hedge reserve results from the early repayment of interest rate swaps in the context of the refinancing in October 2012. The cash flow hedge reserve is released to the finance result using the effective interest method over the original term of the swaps. In addition, changes in value of interest rate hedges recorded in equity to date of kEUR 924 were reclassified to the finance result through profit or loss, because the hedge relationship for interest rate swaps was discontinued in the third quarter of 2014 as a result of the decrease in the bank loan due to issuing the convertible bond. Expenses in the amount of kEUR 217 resulted from the early repayment of the interest rate swaps.

INCOME TAXES 8 _

The major components of income taxes are as follows:

Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013
-12,132 -6,861
-1,690 -2,550
-13,822 -9,411

The effective income tax rate in the third quarter of 2014 was 32.50%. The variance between the effective income tax rate and the Group´s income tax rate of 30.70% is mainly attributable to non-deductible expenses and unused tax loss carry forwards.

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 9 _

Total 32,223 23,856
Short-term deposits 6 5
Cash on hand, cash at banks and checks 32,217 23,851
kEUR 09/30/2014 12/31/2013

Finance Result Income Taxes Cash and Cash Equivalents Equity

EQUITY 10 _

The Company's subscribed share capital is unchanged from December 31, 2013 and still amounted to EUR 453,611.12 on September 30, 2014. It consists of 45,361,112 ordinary shares with a par value of EUR 0.01 and is fully paid-in.

Due to legal requirements kEUR 23 was added to the legal reserve. It now amounts to kEUR 45 (previous year: kEUR 22).

At the Annual General Meeting on April 24, 2014, it was decided to distribute a dividend in the amount of EUR 0.27 per share to shareholders from the net profit of the financial year just ended. Total dividend distribution amounts to EUR 12.2 million.

At the Extraordinary General Meeting of July 15, 2014 shareholders resolved to increase the authorized capital by EUR 90,722.22 through the issue of up to 9,072,222 shares with a par value of EUR 0.01 each under exclusion of subscription rights. The newly created approved capital is independent of the approved capital generated on June 4, 2012 pursuant to section 5.3 of SAF-HOLLAND S.A.'s Articles of Incorporation and is limited until July 15, 2019. The Board of Directors is furthermore authorized to utilize the newly created authorized capital to issue convertible bonds and/or bonds with warrants.

On September 12, 2014, SAF-HOLLAND S.A. issued an unsecured senior convertible bond with SAF-HOLLAND S.A. share conversion rights on the German Stock Exchange. The convertible bond has an original issue volume of kEUR 100,200, a term of six years (maturity: September 12, 2020) and an interest coupon of 1.0% payable semi-annually.

The conversion right can generally be exercised at any time within the period of October 23, 2014 to September 3, 2020 in accordance with the "Bond terms and conditions" at a fixed conversion price in the amount of EUR 12.37 initially.

SAF-HOLLAND is entitled to cancel and make early repayment on all outstanding convertible bonds, if the aggregate principle amount of the outstanding convertible bonds at any time falls 15% below the aggregate nominal amount of the originally issued convertible bond. In addition, SAF-HOLLAND is entitled, as from September 27, 2018, to repay the entire convertible bond at the nominal amount including the interest accumulated to date, if the share price exceeds the respectively valued conversion price by at least 30% on at least 20 of 30 sequential trading days.

The conversion right securitized with the convertible bond is recognized directly in the share premium in the amount of the difference between the proceeds from the issue and the fair value of the borrowing cost component in consideration of deferred taxes and the proportionate transaction costs. The share premium increased by kEUR 2,801 as a result.

Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income consist of the following:

Before tax amount Tax expense Net of tax amount
kEUR Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013 Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013 Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013
Exchange differences on translation of
foreign operations
7,996 -6,671 7,996 -6,671
Changes in fair values of derivatives
designated as hedges, recognized in
equity
1,439 2,347 -392 -639 1,047 1,708
Total 9,435 -4,324 -392 -639 9,043 -4,963

EARNINGS PER SHARE 11 _

Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013
Result for the period kEUR 28,767 18,113
Weighted average number of shares outstanding thousands 45,361 45,361
Basic and diluted earnings per share EUR 0.63 0.40

Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing the result for the period attributable to shareholders of SAF-HOLLAND S.A. by the average number of shares outstanding. New shares issued during the period are included pro rata for the period in which they are outstanding.

Both in the third quarter of 2014 and in the corresponding period of the previous year, the weighted average number of shares remained unchanged at 45,361,112.

The diluted earnings per share are based upon the assumption that the outstanding debt instruments are converted. The convertible bond is only considered in the calculation of the diluted earnings per share if it has a dilutive effect in the reporting period. The consideration of the additional shares from the convertible bond issued in September 2014 does not result in a dilutive effect on earnings per share, as the conversion right is not yet exercisable on the balance sheet date. In the future, this instrument can have a fully dilutive effect.

INTEREST BEARING LOANS AND BORROWINGS 12 _

Non-current Current Total
kEUR 09/30/2014 12/31/2013 09/30/2014 12/31/2013 09/30/2014 12/31/2013
Interest bearing bank loans 10,507 60,216 7,059 10,507 67,275
Convertible bond 96,278 96,278
Bond 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Transaction costs -3,570 -3,315 -444 -602 -4,014 -3,917
Bank overdrafts - 4,084 4,084
Accrued interests - 2,351 4,245 2,351 4,245
Other loans 140 93 125 83 265 176
Total 178,355 131,994 2,032 14,869 180,387 146,863

Equity Earnings per share Interest Bearing Loans and Borrowings

On September 12, 2014, SAF-HOLLAND issued an unsecured, senior convertible bond with a volume of kEUR 100,200.

Upon initial recognition, the convertible bond was divided into a liability portion and an equity portion based on the substance of the contractual arrangements pursuant to IAS 32. The liability portion of the convertible bond was recognized at present value taking into account a market discount rate and increases by the interest portion of the respective period at each balance sheet date in accordance with the effective interest rate method. The compounding of interest resulting from the difference between the coupon interest rate and the effective interest rate amounted to kEUR 31 as of September 30, 2014. At the balance sheet date, the liability portion of the convertible bond was kEUR 96,278.

The net proceeds from the convertible bond emission were primarily used for the repayment of existing bank loans.

As a result of the repayment of bank loans, it was possible to conclude a new revolving credit line with more favorable conditions. Please refer to Note 15 "Events After the Balance Sheet Date" for further information.

The following table summarizes the determination of overall liquidity defined as available undrawn credit lines measured at the period-end exchange rate plus available cash and cash equivalents as at September 30, 2014:

09/30/2014
kEUR Amount drawn valued
as at the period-end
exchange rate
Agreed credit lines
valued as at the
period-end
exchange rate
Cash and cash
equivalents
Total liquidity
Facility A1
Facility A2
Facility B1 7,999 68,000 32,223 92,224
Facility B2 31,915 31,915
Other Facility 2,508 1)
5,124
2,616
Total 10,507 105,039 32,223 126,755

1) New bilateral credit line for the activities of the Group in China.

12/31/2013
kEUR Amount drawn valued
as at the period-end
exchange rate
Agreed credit lines
valued as at the
period-end
exchange rate
Cash and cash
equivalents
Total liquidity
Facility A1 53,195 53,195
Facility A2 11,080 15,980 4,900
Facility B1 3,000 80,000 23,856 100,856
Facility B2 36,320 36,320
Total 67,275 185,495 23,856 142,076

The determination of overall liquidity has changed as compared to the Annual Report as of December 31, 2013. Overall liquidity is now calculated with reference to the period-end exchange rate. The management expects the changed calculation method to allow for better insight into the Company's financial position. The prior-year figures have been adjusted for reasons of comparability.

FINANCIAL ASSETS AND OTHER FINANCIAL LIABILITIES 13 _

The fair values and carrying amounts of the financial assets were as follows as of the balance sheet date:

09/30/2014 12/31/2013
kEUR Fair value Carrying amount Fair value Carrying amount
Financial assets measured at cost or amortized costs
Cash and cash equivalents 32,223 32,223 23,856 23,856
Trade receivables 130,010 130,010 76,088 76,088
Other current assets 1,165 1,165 1,175 1,175
Derivatives without hedging 150 150 15 15
Financial liabilites measured at cost or amortized costs
Trade payables 106,420 106,420 79,253 79,253
Interest bearing loans and borrowings 192,331 180,387 156,125 146,863
Finance lease liabilities 2,186 2,186 2,237 2,237
Derivatives with hedging relationship 205 205

On balance sheet date the market value of the listed corporate bond measured at amortized cost amounts to kEUR 84,375 (December 31, 2013: 84,263).

On balance sheet date the market value of the convertible bond measured at amortized cost amounts to kEUR 98,847.

The following overview shows the allocation of financial assets and liabilities, which are measured at fair value, into valuation hierarchies according to IFRS 13.

09/30/2014
Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total
Derivative financial assets 150 150
12/31/2013
Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total
Derivative financial assets 15 15
Derivative financial liabilities 205 205

Financial Assets and Other Financial Liabilities Related Party Disclosures

As of September 30, 2014, the derivative financial assets contain forward exchange transactions and are used to hedge the risk position arising from the currency fluctuation of the US dollar.

RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES 14 _

At the Annual General Meeting on April 24, 2014, it was decided to approve and renew the Board of Directors mandate of Bernhard Schneider, Sam Martin and Detlef Borghardt until the Annual General Meeting that will resolve on the annual accounts for the financial year ending December 31, 2016. Furthermore, it was decided to approve and renew the Board of Directors mandate of Anja Kleyboldt until the Annual General Meeting that will resolve on the annual accounts for the financial year ending December 31, 2015. In addition, the appointment of Martina Merz to the Board of Directors until the Annual General Meeting that will resolve on the annual accounts for the financial year ending December 31, 2016 was approved.

Since April 24, 2014, the Board of Directors has consisted of the following members:

  • Bernhard Schneider (Chairman)
  • Sam Martin (Deputy Chairman)
  • Detlef Borghardt
  • Dr. Martin Kleinschmitt
  • Anja Kleyboldt
  • Martina Merz
  • Richard Muzzy

TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES AND COMPANIES IN WHICH MEMBERS OF MANAGEMENT HOLD KEY POSITIONS

Sales to related parties Purchases from related parties
kEUR Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013 Q1-Q3/2014 Q1-Q3/2013
SAF-HOLLAND Nippon, Ltd. 770 722
Lakeshore Air LLP 65
FWI S.A. 22,468 20,205
Total 770 722 22,468 20,270
Amounts owed
by related parties
Amounts owed to
related parties
kEUR 09/30/2014 12/31/2013 09/30/2014 12/31/2013
SAF-HOLLAND Nippon, Ltd. 221 185 183 183
Lakeshore Air LLP
FWI S.A. 1,571 382
Total 221 185 1,754 565

CASH FLOW STATEMENT 15 _

Please see the Group Interim Management Report for further explanations of the cash flow statement.

EVENTS AFTER THE BALANCE SHEET DATE 16 _

In October 2014, an agreement for a credit line was signed with a new, smaller consortium of banks which replaced the financing arrangement that had been in place since October 5, 2012 ahead of schedule and ensures a long-term supply of short and long-term finance for the Group until October 2019.

The early refinancing offers the following advantages compared to the financing agreement that was replaced:

  • Halving of the interest margin in a first step to 1.3%.
  • Relaxation of the financial covenants due to the Group's improved risk position.
  • Extension of the maturity date by two years compared to the financing agreement that was replaced.

No further material events have occurred since the reporting date.

002 Company 012 Group Interim Management Report 028 Consolidated Interim Financial Statements 045

Cash Flow Statement Events after the Balance Sheet Date

Financial Glossary

A

Actuarial gains and losses

Experience adjustments (the effects of differences between the previous actuarial assumptions and what has actually occurred) and the effects of changes in actuarial assumptions.

Adjusted EBIT

Earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) is adjusted for special items, such as depreciation and amortization from purchase price allocations, impairment of goodwill and intangible assets, reversal of impairment of intangible assets as well as restructuring and integration costs.

Aperiodic Non-periodic, at irregular intervals.

B

Bond with warrant

Bonds with warrants are fixed-interest securities issued by a company which are issued together with warrants. These warrants confer the right to purchase shares in the issuing company at a predefined point in time and at pre-defined conditions. In addition, the owner of a bond with warrant continues to have a right to interest payments and settlements from the bond after exercising the warrant.

Business Units

For management purposes, the Group is organized into customer-oriented Business Units (Trailer Systems, Powered Vehicle Systems, and Aftermarket).

C

Cash-generating unit

Cash-generating unit is the smallest identifiable group of assets that generates cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash inflows of other assets or groups of assets.

Convertible bond

Convertible bonds are fixed-interest securities issued by a company. In addition, the owner has the right to exchange the fixed-income securities for shares in the issuing company at pre-defined conditions at a certain point in time.

Coverage

Analysts at renowned banks and investment houses regularly observe and evaluate the development of SAF-HOLLAND S.A.'s shares.

D

Days inventory outstanding

Inventory / cost of sales per day (cost of sales of the quarter / 90 days).

Days payable outstanding

Trade payables / cost of sales per day (cost of sales of the quarter / 90 days).

Days sales oustanding

Trade receivables / sales per day (sales of the quarter / 90 days).

Diluted earnings per share

Earnings per share can be reduced or the loss per share can be increased from the assumption that the outstanding share options and convertible bonds are converted.

E

Effective income tax rate

Income tax according to the income statement / earnings before tax x 100.

Equity ratio

Equity / total assets x 100.

Financial Glossary

F

Fair value

Amount obtainable from the sale in an arm's length transaction between knowledgeable, willing parties.

Financial covenants

Financial figures stipulated in finance agreements to which the company must adhere during the duration.

G

Gross margin

Gross profit / sales x 100.

I

IFRS/IAS

The standard international accounting rules are intended to make company data more comparable. Under the EU resolution, accounting and reporting at listed companies must be done in accordance with these rules.

M

MDAX

The mid-cap-DAX (MDAX) comprises 50 companies that rank immediately below DAX securities in terms of market capitalization and order book volume.

N

Net working capital

Current assets less cash and cash equivalents less current and non-current other provisions less trade payables less other current liabilities less income tax liabilities.

Non-recourse factoring

Factoring where the factor takes on the bad debt risk.

P

Personnel expenses per employee

Personnel expenses (not including restructuring and integration costs) / average number of employees (not including temporary employees).

Prime Standard

Prime Standard is a market segment of the German Stock Exchange that lists German companies which comply with international transparency standards.

Purchase price allocation (PPA)

Distribution of the acquisition costs of a business combination to the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities of the (acquired) company.

R

R&D ratio

R&D cost and capitalized development cost / sales x 100.

Recoverable amount

The recoverable amount is the higher of the fair value less cost to sell and the value in use.

S

Sales per employee

Sales / average number of employees (including temporary employees).

SDAX

The small-cap-DAX (SDAX) comprises 50 companies that rank immediately below mid-cap-DAX (MDAX) securities in terms of market capitalization and order book volume. As is the case with DAX, TecDAX and MDAX, the SDAX belongs to the Prime Standard.

Shares of non-controlling interests

Equity in a subsidiary not attributable, directly or indirectly, to a parent.

T

Total cost of ownership

Total cost relating to acquisition, operating and maintenance of an asset.

V

Value in use

Present value of future cash flows from an asset.

Landing Gear Retractable legs that support the front of a semi-trailer when it is not secured to the tractor unit. SAF-HOLLAND landing gear has a special coating that increases their ser vice life sig nifi cantly.

Technical Glossary

Axle System

The axle system for trailers consists in general of the axle itself with either a disk brake or a drum brake and the mechanical or air suspension system.

050

List of Abbreviations

A
ACEA European Automobile Manufacturer's
Association
F
FEM
Finite Element Method; numerical
ACT Americas Commercial Transportation technique for finding approximate
Research Research Co., LLC solutions for partial differential
APO Advanced Planer & Optimizer equation; often used in industrial
(IT-System to utilize for engineering
supply chain management)
G
B GDP Gross Domestic Product
BRIC Brasil, Russia, India, and China
I
C IAA International Automobile Exhibition
CAAM China Association of Automobile IAS International Accounting Standards
Manufacturers IASB International Accounting Standards
CAD IT-System often used in engineering/ Board
product development IFRIC International Financial Reporting
Cap Derivative to hedge against rising Interpretations Committee
interest rates IFRS International Financial Reporting
CEO Chief Executive Officer Standards
CFO Chief Financial Officer IfW Institut für Weltwirtschaft
CFRP Carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (German economic organization)
IR Investor Relations
ISIN International Securities
D Identification Number
DAX Deutscher Aktienindex ISO International Organization for
(German stock index) Standardization
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung IT Information Technology
(German Institute for Standardization)
K
E kEUR Thousand Euro
EBIT Earnings Before Interest and Taxes
EBITDA Earnings Before Interest, Taxes and
Depreciation/Amortization
EDP Electronic Data Processing

List of Abbreviations

M U
MATS Mid-America Trucking Show US United States of America
Mio. Million USA United States of America
USD US-Dollar
N
n.a. Not applicable V
VDA Verband der Automobilindustrie
O
OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer W
OES Original Equipment Service WKN Wertpapierkennnummer (security
identification number)
WpHG Wertpapierhandelsgesetz (German
P Securities Trading Act)
PDC Parts Distribution Center
PPA Purchase Price Allocation
ppm Parts per million
R
R&D Research and Development
S
SDAX Small-cap-DAX
SIAM Society of Indian Automobile
Manufacturers
Swap Hedging instrument in which two
counterparties agree to exchange
contractual rights and obligations
against another (to swap) to a definite
existing period of time in the future
and to defined conditions

Financial Calendar and Contact Information

Financial Calendar

March 12, 2015 Publication of Annual Financial Statements 2014 April 23, 2015 Annual General Meeting May 13, 2015 Report on Q1 2015 Results August 6, 2015 Report on H1 2015 Results November 5, 2015 Report on Q3 2015 Results

Contact

SAF-HOLLAND GmbH Claudia Hoellen Hauptstraße 26 63856 Bessenbach Germany

Phone: +49 (0)6095 301-617 Fax: +49 (0)6095 301-102

Web: www.safholland.com Email: [email protected]

Financial Calendar and Contact Information Imprint

Imprint

Responsible: SAF-HOLLAND S.A. 68–70, Boulevard de la Pétrusse L-2320 Luxembourg Luxembourg

Editorial deadline: November 5, 2014 Date of publication: November 6, 2014 Editorial office: blackpoint communications GmbH, Hagen, and SAF-HOLLAND GmbH, Bessenbach Design and realization: wagneralliance Kommunikation GmbH, Offenbach am Main Translated by: MBETraining & Translations, Wiesbaden Photography: Bernd Bodtländer, Frankfurt am Main Corbis GmbH, Düsseldorf

This report is also available in German.

Legal Disclaimer

This report contains certain statements that are neither reported financial results nor other historical information. This report contains forward-looking statements, which as such are based on certain assumptions and expectations made at the time of publication of the report. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. Many of these risks and uncertainties relate to factors that are beyond the Group's ability to control or estimate precisely, such as future market and economic conditions, the behavior of other market participants, the achievement of anticipated synergies, and the actions of government regulators. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this publication.

SAF-HOLLAND S.A. does not undertake any obligation to publicly release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of publication of these materials.

www.safholland.com

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