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SAF-HOLLAND SE

Quarterly Report May 27, 2010

6218_10-q_2010-05-27_ca76d72c-43e5-474b-a171-803d6e8f7761.pdf

Quarterly Report

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QUARTERLY REPORT AS OF MARCH 31, 2010

Key Figures

EUR million Q1/2010 Q1/2009
Sales 125.3 112.1
Cost of sales -101.6 -93.1
Gross profit 23.7 19.0
Adjusted result for the year -1.6 -5.3
Adjusted EPS in Euro1) -0.08 -0.26
Adjusted EBITDA 8.6 3.1
Adjusted EBIT 4.8 -0.5
Operating cash flow2) 7.2 5.5

year/weighted average number

Sales by Region

EUR million Q1/2010 Q1/2009
Europe 58.8 57.1
North America 59.0 50.5
Other 7.5 4.5
Total 125.3 112,1

Sales by Business Unit

EUR million Q1/2010 Q1/2009
Trailer Systems 56.7 47.2
Powered Vehicle Systems 27.5 26.7
Aftermarket 41.1 38.2
Total 125.3 112.1

Other Financial Information

03/31/2010 12/31/2009
Total assets (in EUR million) 477.9 458.1
Equity ratio (in %) 4.9 5.2
Q1/2010 Q1/2009
Employees (average) 2,403 2,256
Sales per employee (in kEUR) 52.1 49.7

Table of Contents

  • FOREWORD FROM THE MANAGEMENT BOARD
  • AT A GLANCE
  • THE SHARE
  • GROUP INTERIM MANAGEMENT REPORT

  • 16 IV Risk Report

  • CONSOLIDATED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

  • 22 Consolidated Cash Flow Statement

  • FINANCIAL GLOSSARY
  • TECHNICAL GLOSSARY
  • FINANCIAL CALENDAR AND CONTACT INFORMATION
  • IMPRINT

Foreword from the Management Board

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The recovery of the truck and trailer industry is here. Demand has been rising consistently since January of this year. This applies to truck and trailer markets in both North America and Europe as well as all other markets in which SAF-HOLLAND is active. Following a detailed analysis of the first few months, we now anticipate a further stabilization of this trend. As a result of the increase in demand, we have ended the shortened working hours at the Company's production locations in Germany effective April 1.

SAF-HOLLAND is well positioned to benefit in an upswing in the market: Throughout the crisis we have kept our eyes on the strategic goal of a global footprint combined with a comprehensive and innovative range of products. This is reflected in the successful production of our own trailer axles in North America as well as in the integration of the former Georg Fischer Verkehrstechnik GmbH, the number 2 in Europe in the fifth wheel business. We have also further consolidated our activities in China setting the stage for a substantial expansion of production capacities.

Our ambitious restructuring program in 2008 and 2009 has made us leaner and more efficient. Our focus now shifts to a further increase in process capacity through the continuous improvement in productivity. Inventories will be further reduced. Our goal is to consistently reduce the turnover period for our materials stock.

SAF-HOLLAND has secured its financial stability to September 2014 with the completion of a credit agreement in November 2009. This agreement gives us the flexibility we need to take advantage of an increasingly dynamic market.

We remain true to our objectives and our strategy. SAF-HOLLAND is and will remain a global partner for the international truck and trailer industry. We utilize innovative technologies and manufacture products and systems which ensure safety and conservation of resources, requirements of the industry's growing focus on both cost and environmental sensitivity.

We are confident that SAF-HOLLAND will reach a sales level of 1 billion Euros in the medium term while at the same time achieving an adjusted EBIT margin of 10%. We anticipate double-digit sales growth in the current year and an improvement in operating earnings as compared to 2009.

Rudi Ludwig Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

05

First Quarter 2010 at a Glance

>> Group Sales rises by 11.8% to EUR 125.3 million

  • Trailer Systems Business Unit with 20.1% increase in sales
  • Powered Vehicle Systems Business Unit continues to improve gross margin
  • Aftermarket Business Unit retains good margin

>> Earnings benefit from sales increase and lean cost structure

  • Efficiency improved by a further EUR 10 million in 2010
  • Constant improvement in inventory turnover

>> SAF-HOLLAND focuses on technical edge

  • Lighter products contributing to reductions in fuel consumption
  • Axle systems with integrated disc brake technology allow for shorter braking distances in North America

The Share

As a result of improved economic forecasts, global share indices were able to record substantial increases in the first quarter of 2010. The leading German index, DAX, thus reached its high for the year to date on March 29, 2010 with 6,156 points, closing at its highest level since September 2008. Development for the SDAX, which closed with 3,896 points on March 31, 2010, was similar.

The SAF-HOLLAND share started with a price of EUR 2.70 on January 4, 2010 and ended the first quarter on March 31, 2010 at EUR 1.97. The impact of the upswing on the markets was only felt in the SAF-HOLLAND share price after the conclusion of the reporting period, which then led to a significant price increase.

At our Company's Annual General Meeting on April 22, 2010 it was decided that no dividend would be paid for fiscal year 2009. Near term, the focus will be on the objective of returning the Company to profitability following the market crisis of 2008 and 2009.

07

Group Interim Management Report

  • 09 I BUSINESS AND FRAMEWORK CONDITIONS
  • 09 II OVERVIEW OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

  • 10 II.2 Significant Events in the First Quarter 2010

  • 13 II.5 Development in the Business Units

  • 14 II.6 Financing

  • 14 II.8 Liquidity

  • 16 III EVENTS AFTER THE BALANCE SHEET DATE
  • 16 IV RISK REPORT
  • 16 V OUTLOOK

Group Interim Management Report

I BUSINESS AND FRAMEWORK CONDITIONS

SAF-HOLLAND S.A., hereinafter also referred to as SAF-HOLLAND, the Group, or the Company, is one of the world's leading manufacturers and providers of premium systems and components for commercial vehicles (trucks and trailers) as well as buses and recreational vehicles. The product range includes axle and suspension systems, fifth wheels, couplers, kingpins, and landing legs. The Group, with its three Business Units – Trailer Systems, Powered Vehicle Systems, and Aftermarket – currently utilizes 18 production sites in Europe, North America, Brazil, Australia, China, and India. In addition, the Company operates a worldwide service and distribution network.

The Company was founded in December 2005 for the purpose of acquiring SAF Group, a European market leader in the manufacture and sale of axles and axle systems for the trailer industry. The acquisition was carried out indirectly via two intermediaries on March 31, 2006. Similarly, the acquisition of the US-based Holland Group, an American market leader in the components and systems segment for the truck and trailer industry, was executed via an intermediary on December 18, 2006.

II OVERVIEW OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

II.1 Overall Economic Environment

The economic recovery is becoming more and more dynamic. For some regions, such as the USA, Brazil and Russia, the International Monetary Fund in April 2010 adjusted its growth forecast upward; for Germany, however, it was lowered slightly. According to the forecast, the global economy is expected to grow by 4.2% in 2010; previously growth rates of 3.9% had been expected. For Germany, a plus of 1.2% is now anticipated (instead of 1.5%), and 1.0% for the Euro zone. In the USA, gross national product in the current year should rise by 3.1%, in Brazil by 5.5% and in Russia by 4.0%. For China, experts anticipate an increase of 10.0% and in India an increase of 8.8%.

With the recovery of the global economy, the mood in the truck and trailer industry is also improving. In light of rising demand, one leading European truck manufacturer wants to end shortened working hours at its plants earlier than originally planned. On the other hand, the registration for new heavy trucks (over 16 tons) continues to decline in Europe. This downward trend is, however, slowing. The decrease in registrations in March was only 5% while for the first quarter overall it was 23%.1) Trailer manufacturers were able to substantially reduce their inventories over the course of the last year. This has had a positive effect on recent production volumes. In North America, too, the market revival that started late in 2009 continues to strengthen. Production for trucks and trailers increased month over month throughout the first quarter, with March showing the biggest gains. Class 8 production increased 12% in March over February and trailer/chassis production jumped about 26%.2)

1) ACEA, April 2010

2) ACT, April 2010

II.2 Significant Events in the First Quarter 2010

In the first quarter of 2010, SAF-HOLLAND benefited from improved demand compared to the recession year of 2009. The trailer business in particular picked up in North America and sooner than originally expected, also in Europe. Both incoming orders and, after a slight delay, sales, steadily improved over the course of the first three months of the year. Powered Vehicle Systems continued to be influenced by early purchases of trucks in the USA at the end of 2009, triggered by new emission requirements that came into effect at the beginning of this year. Build rates, though depressed from Q3 2009 levels, are none the less still stronger than mid-2009 levels. The North American truck market is therefore ahead of the North American trailer market in its recovery. Because of these factors, we also recorded a slight increase in sales in the Powered Vehicle Business Unit.

The pick-up in sales in combination with the Company's leaner cost structures contributed to an increase in operating earnings compared to both the corresponding period in the previous year and to the previous quarter. With Group sales of EUR 125.3 million (previous year: EUR 112.1 million), our adjusted earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) was at EUR 4.8 million (previous year: EUR -0.5 million), an improvement of EUR 4.5 million compared to the fourth quarter of 2009.

As a result of the positive situation regarding incoming orders and sales development, SAF-HOLLAND discontinued reduced working hours at its locations in Germany as of April 1. The plant in Keilberg, near Aschaffenburg, which had been shut down since February 2009, resumed operations as of April 1.

Despite the positive start to the year, we will continue the restructuring measures. In addition to the cost reductions of approximately EUR 65 million made since the end of 2008, we will save an additional EUR 10 million in the current year, mainly as a result of measures which will increase process productivity.

We will also continue to focus on inventory management. From the third quarter of 2008 to the end of 2009, we reduced inventories by about 50%. Despite the increase in sales, we succeeded, in the first quarter of 2010, in maintaining inventories at the level of the prioryear quarter at approximately the equivalent of 58 days of sales. Our mid-term goal is 45 days. Systems, such as APO (Advanced Planner and Optimizer) support the project and also increase transparency.

The mood at the biggest commercial vehicle fair in North America was considerably more optimistic than the previous year. It was also clearly evident at the Mid-America trucking show in Louisville, Kentucky, that SAF-HOLLAND's technologies both meet the needs of customers and also set industry trends. Interestingly, the clear general theme of the show was fuel reduction. One way of achieving this challenge is by reducing the weight of all components in the truck and trailer combination. SAF-HOLLAND is leading the way with products that set themselves apart from our competition due to their low weight and environmental compatibility, such as our axle systems for trailers and the aluminum fifth wheel for trucks.

At the Mid-America trucking show, great interest was shown by trailer manufacturers and fleets in our axle systems with integrated disc brakes. SAF-HOLLAND is taking a pioneering role with this technology in North America, based on its many years of experience as the European market leader in these products. Interest in disc brake technology is growing in North America as a result of new legislation, which in the future will require braking distances for heavy truck and trailer combinations to be reduced by around 30%. The new regulations for new vehicles begin to come into effect on January 1, 2011.

II.3 Sales Development

The development of sales in all three Business Units was encouraging, both in North America and in Europe. While the sales increase recorded in the Powered Vehicle Systems Business Unit was, as expected, limited in the first quarter, increases in the Trailer Systems and Aftermarket Business Units were stronger than expected. In all, Group sales in the first three months of the year of EUR 125.3 million (previous year: EUR 112.1 million) were 11.8% higher than in the previous year period. The share of sales accounted for by the European business amounted to 46.9% (previous year: 50.9%). The share of sales accounted for by the North American business rose to 47.1% (previous year: 45.1%) and the other regions increased by 2 percentage points to 6%.

The increase in the trailer business which, compared to the truck market on a percentage basis was disproportionately high, was primarily attributable to two effects: On the one hand, in spite of the pre-buy at the end of 2009 due to new emissions regulations that took effect in North America at the beginning of the year, build rates declined but are still at high levels compared to the first three quarters of 2009. On the other hand, trailer manufacturers in Europe were able to gradually reduce their high inventories of finished trailers over the course of the last year and production rates in both Europe and North America were at historically low levels. As a result, an increase in sales volume for trailers created a significant increase on a percentage basis and led to increases in our order and sales volumes.

Sales Development by region

Q1/2010
(exchange rate
EUR million Q1/2010 adjusted) Q1/2009
Europe 58.8 46.9% 58.8 45.5% 57.1 50.9%
North America 59.0 47.1% 62.6 48.5% 50.5 45.1%
Other 7.5 6.0% 7.7 6.0% 4.5 4.0%
Total 125.3 100.0% 129.1 100.0% 112.1 100.0%

Sales Development by Business Unit

EUR million Q1/2010
(exchange rate
Q1/2010
adjusted)
Q1/2009
Trailer Systems 56.7 45.3% 57.8 44.8% 47.2 42.1%
Powered Vehicle Systems 27.5 21.9% 28.9 22.4% 26.7 23.8%
Aftermarket 41.1 32.8% 42.4 32.8% 38.2 34.1%
Total 125.3 100.0% 129.1 100.0% 112.1 100.0%

II.4 Earnings Development

The profitability of our Company received a boost in recent months from the increase in sales and efficiency improvements. In total, adjusted EBIT amounted to EUR 4.8 million (previous year: EUR -0.5 million). Thanks to greater utilization of capacities and a better product mix, the gross margin climbed to 18.9% (previous year: 16.9%). The adjusted result for the year was EUR -1.6 million (previous year: EUR -5.3 million). Adjusted earnings per share amounted to EUR -0.08 (previous year: EUR -0.26).

Reconciliation Statement for Adjusted Figures

EUR million Q1/2010 Q1/2009
Result for the year -9.4 -8.3
Taxes on income -1.4
Finance result 12.5 6.9
Depreciation and amortization on PPA1) 1.6 1.8
Restructuring and integration costs 0.1 0.5
Adjusted EBIT 4.8 -0.5
as a percentage of sales 3.8 -0.4
Depreciation and amortization 3.8 3.6
Adjusted EBITDA 8.6 3.1
as a percentage of sales 6.9 2.8
Depreciation and amortization -3.8 -3.6
Finance result -12.5 -6.9
Restructuring and integration costs 5.4
Adjusted result before taxes -2.3 -7.4
Taxes on income2) 0.7 2.1
Adjusted result for the year -1.6 -5.3
as a percentage of sales -1.3 -4.7
Number of shares3) 20,702,275 20,702,275
Adjusted earnings per share in EUR -0.08 -0.26

1) Purchase price allocation (PPA) from the acquisition of the SAF Group and Holland Group in 2006 as well as Austin-Westran Machinery Co., Ltd. and the current SAF-HOLLAND Verkehrstechnik GmbH in 2008.

2) A uniform rate of 28.59% was assumed for the adjusted net profit for the year.

3) Weighted average number of shares outstanding as of reporting day.

II.5 Development in the Business Units

Trailer Systems

Following the dramatic sales decline in the previous year, there have been signs of growth in the trailer markets since the beginning of 2010. The positive trend has been getting consis tently stronger in the months from January to March and is asserting itself in both North America and Europe. In addition to the basically optimistic mood on the markets, there are two other reasons contributing to a revival: One of these is the fact that in North America, after a three-year economic recession set off by the real-estate crisis in 2007, there is a grow ing need for replacement investment. The other reason is that the trailer industry in Europe successively reduced its inventories of finished trailers over the course of 2009 to a normal level. Both of these effects are major reasons for the disproportionately strong development as compared to the Powered Vehicle segment.

In all, the Trailer Systems segment generated sales of EUR 56.7 million (previous year: EUR 47.2 million) in the first three months, an increase of 20.1%. Adjus ted for exchange rate effects, sales climbed to EUR 57.8 million. The gross margin reached 3.4% (previous year: -2.1%) due to the comprehensive restructuring program. The Business Unit contributed 45.3% of Group sales in the first quarter of 2010.

Powered Vehicle Systems

The Powered Vehicle Systems Business Unit slightly increased sales in the first quarter as compared to the previous year period. In North America, development at the beginning of the year was restrained, as expected, because new emission regulations set off advanced purchase effects for trucks at the end of the past year. Nevertheless, the truck markets have also been benefiting from a general brightening of the mood since the beginning of the year and from more optimistic forecasts for the coming months. Build rates remain at relatively strong levels compared to the first three quarters of 2009.

At EUR 27.5 million, the Business Unit recorded sales in the first three months of the year that were 3.0% higher than in previous year quarter. The revival of sales that has been ongoing since the second quarter of 2009 and continued into the reporting period. Adjus ted for exchange rate effects, sales were EUR 28.9 million. The gross margin continued to im prove to 24.4% as compared to 20.6% in the previous year period. In total, the Business Unit benefited from the continuous cost reductions as well as a good customer/product mix. Powered Vehicle Systems' share of Group sales was 21.9% (previous year: 23.8%).

Aftermarket

In the course of the general market revival, sales in the Aftermarket Business Unit increased in the first quarter by 7.6% to EUR 41.1 million (previous year: EUR 38.2 million), adjusted for exchange rate effects to EUR 42.4 million. The gross margin was 36.7% (previous year: 38.0%) and was impacted by an increase in the provision for warranty as well as a less favorable product mix. The Business Unit accounted for 32.8% of total sales.

Overview of the Business Units

Business Unit
Business Unit Powered Vehicle Business Unit
Trailer Systems Systems Aftermarket Total
EUR million Q1/2010 Q1/2009
Q1/2010
Q1/2009
Q1/2010
Q1/2009 Q1/2010 Q1/2009
Sales 56.7 47.2 27.5 26.7 41.1 38.2 125.3 112.1
Cost of sales -54.8 -48.2 -20.8 -21.2 -26.0 -23.7 -101.6 -93.1
Gross operating result 1.9 -1.0 6.7 5.5 15.1 14.5 23.7 19.0
as a percentage of sales 3.4 -2.1 24.4 20.6 36.7 38.0 18.9 16.9

II.6 Financing

SAF-HOLLAND reduced its financing line in the first quarter by EUR 13.0 million compared to the position of December 31, 2009. As a result of the extended credit line agreed in November 2009, we restructured our interest rate hedging transactions in March this year. One-time effects (finance result) in the amount of EUR 5.5 million to be recognized in profit or loss were incurred in connection with the termination of the old interest rate hedging and the completion of a new agreement. Of this amount, EUR 2.4 million is primarily attributable to the change in the market values of the old interest rate hedge for the period from January 1 to the day of termination March 19, 2010. The remaining EUR 3.1 million re present the costs of the interest rate hedge, which is to be recorded as a one-time expense in accordance with IFRS regulations.

II.7 Investments

In fiscal year 2010, the Group is concentrating its investment activities on the growth markets of Brazil and China. At Xiamen, our location in China, for example, axle production for the domestic market and for export should start by the middle of the year. Based on the current plans, total investments for 2010 will not exceed the level of EUR 8 million.

II.8 Liquidity

The successful restructuring and rising product demand formed the foundation for an improved cash flow from operating activities. In the first quarter, cash flow from operating activities before income tax payments increased to EUR 7.2 million (previous year: EUR 5.5 million). Cash flow from investments totaled EUR -0.9 million (previous year: EUR -1.7 million). Cash flow from financing activities amounted to EUR -16.5 million (previous year: EUR 3.9 million) and is primarily characterized by the lower utilization of the credit lines in the amount of EUR 13.0 million. Together with the change in sales, net working capital increased to EUR 56.7 million (December 31, 2009: EUR 52.7 million), corresponding to 11.3% of sales (December 31, 2009: 12.8%).

II.9 Assets

On the balance sheet as of March 31, 2010, the Group showed a nearly stable equity ratio of 4.9% (December 31, 2009: 5.2%). Cash and cash equivalents amounted to EUR 10.2 million (December 31, 2009: EUR 20.7 million).

Total assets increased to EUR 477.9 million (December 31, 2009: EUR 458.1 million). The rise is based primarily on growth in inventories and increased receivables and liabilities resulting from the sales increase. Non-current assets remained nearly stable at EUR 320.4 million (December 31, 2009: EUR 318.1 million). Current assets rose to EUR 157.5 million (December 31, 2009: EUR 140.0 million) because inventories increased to EUR 65.5 million (December 31, 2009: EUR 55.5 million) and trade receivables were up at EUR 75.3 million (December 31, 2009: EUR 57.2 million).

Equity was nearly unchanged at EUR 23.6 million (December 31, 2009: EUR 23.8 million). Non-current liabilities declined slightly to EUR 361.2 million (December 31, 2009: EUR 364.7 million). Current liabilities rose to EUR 93.1 million (December 31, 2009: EUR 69.6 million). This is a reflection of the increase in trade payables to EUR 61.4 million (December 31, 2009: EUR 40.9 million) as a consequence of the sales increase.

II.10 Employees

The number of employees increased to 2,403 (previous year: 2,256). Due to good business development in recent months the Company had an increase in the number of commercial employees in the USA and Asia. In Germany, several employee changes have taken place. Apprentices were given full-time positions following the successful completion of their training programs.

As a result of the sales development, shortened work hours are being gradually phased out and will be stopped completely in the production area be ginning of April. Only in administration are shortened work hours still in place. For employees who are part of the collective bargaining agreement, voluntary salary reductions ended at the beginning of January.

In North America, the salary and pension contribution reductions in place for most of 2009 were discontinued effective January 2010. Also, a new collective bargaining agreement was reached at the Holland, Michigan location which defines additional cost savings.

II.11 Research and Development

We are currently focusing primarily on the development of new, lightweight products which allow for greater energy efficiency and lower cost-of-ownership throughout their useful life. With the "Holland FWAL" lightweight fifth wheel, we are already offering an innovative and cost-saving solution. Through the use of aluminum, the fifth wheel is significantly lighter than conventional solutions made from cast iron or steel. For a truck, this translates to lower fuel consumption or potentially higher payloads. We have received and shipped the first orders for our newest product in the USA - axle systems with integrated disc brakes. Beginning in 2011, new safety regulations apply in the USA and, as a result, demand for disc brake axle systems, for both trucks and trailers, should increase substantially because drum brakes, which are usually used in the USA, do not perform as well. At the leading European trade fair, IAA Commercial Vehicles in September 2010 in Hannover, additional new products which are currently in the final development stages will be introduced. In the reporting period, R&D expenses amounted to EUR 3.4 million (previous year: EUR 3.3 million). Of that amount, EUR 0.3 million (previous year: EUR 0.2 million) was capitalized. That corresponds to an R&D ratio of 2.7% (previous year: 2.9%).

III EVENTS AFTER THE BALANCE SHEET DATE

At the Annual General Meeting on April 22, 2010 it was decided to extend the mandates from Ulrich Otto Sauer (Deputy Chairman) and Rudi Ludwig until April 2013 and April 2012 respectively. At his request and for personal reasons, Dr. Siegfried Goll will leave the committee when his contract expires on June 18, 2010. As part of the reduction in the size of the committee resulting from the corporate restructuring, the Company will not appoint a successor to Dr. Siegfried Goll in the Board of Directors.

On May 14, 2010, Pamplona Capital Partners I, LP, informed the Company that it had sold its 34.5% of voting shares on May 12 to 14 institutional investors from England, Germany and the USA. With Pamplona having left the circle of shareholders, the free float has in creased considerably to 79.1%, management and former owners hold the remaining 20.9% of shares.

IV RISK REPORT

Compared with the risk profile at the end of 2009 fiscal year, as outlined in the annual report (published on April 1, 2010), the Group has experienced no change. Overall, the risks are manageable and sufficient provisions have been made for known risks.

V OUTLOOK

The world economy is once again showing positive developments. Coming from a low, the gross domestic product in SAF-HOLLAND's major markets should again increase this year. Overall, the world economy is expected to rise by 4.2%. Previously, the forecast stood at 3.9%. An increase of 1.2% is expected for Germany with a rise of 1.0% forecast for the Euro zone. GNP is predicted to grow by 3.1% in the US, 5.5% in Brazil and 4.0% in Russia in the current year. Experts anticipate an in crease of 10% for China with an increase of 8.8% expected for India.

The expected upswing in the truck and trailer industry was already being felt at the beginning of the year. While the rate of truck industry development has slowed, production in the trailer industry is already growing by double digits. Market analyses foresee growth rates of up to 14%1) in truck production in Northern America (Class 8). The trailer industry in Europe is expected to see a 46%2) gain in production with a 48%3) increase predicted for the USA.

1) ACT, April 2010 2) Beecroft 2010 3) FTR, April 2010

SAF-HOLLAND is well positioned and prepared for the upward developments in the market. Our operations are highly efficient and able to react flexibly to actual demand. As a result of our restructuring efforts, our fixed costs have been reduced. At the same time, we have sufficient capacity to support our planned growth path. Despite consistently rising demand in the first months of the year, predictions beyond the short-term remain unclear. For sales we envisage a double digit percentage increase for the 2010 fiscal year. In terms of earnings we will profit from sales growth and past and future cost reductions. In the mid-term, we want to achieve a sales goal of one billion Euros and generate an adjusted EBIT margin of 10%.

Consolidated Interim Financial Statements

  • CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
  • CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
  • CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
  • 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 FINANCE EXPENSES
  • 7 INCOME TAXES
  • 8 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
  • 9 EQUITY
  • 10 EARNINGS PER SHARE
  • 11 INTEREST BEARING LOANS AND BORROWINGS
  • 12 FINANCIAL ASSETS AND OTHER FINANCIAL LIABILITIES
  • 13 RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES
  • 14 CASH FLOW STATEMENT
  • 15 EVENTS AFTER THE BALANCE SHEET DATE
kEUR Notes Q1/2010 Q1/2009
Result for the year
Sales (5) 125,285 112,060
Cost of sales -101,593 -93,126
Gross profit 23,692 18,934
Other income 415 335
Selling expenses -9,017 -10,378
Administrative expenses -8,781 - 9,075
Research and development costs -3,174 - 3,037
Operating profit/loss (5) 3,135 -3,221
Finance income 131 112
Finance expenses (6) -12,617 - 7,042
Share of net profit of investments accounted
for using the equity method
-113 447
Loss before tax -9,464 -9,704
Income tax income (7) 23 1,365
Result for the year -9,441 -8,339
Other comprehensive income
Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations 8,081 4,950
Changes in fair values of derivatives designated
as hedges, recognized in equity
(12) 1,687 -101
Income tax effects on items recognized directly
in other comprehensive income
(9) -553 -2,669
Other comprehensive income, net of tax 9,215 2,180
Comprehensive income for the year, net of tax -226 -6,159
Attributable to equity holders of the parent -226 -6,159
Basic and diluted earnings per share in EUR (10) -0.46 -0.40

Consolidated Balance Sheet

kEUR Notes 03/31/10 12/31/09
Assets
Non-current assets 320,369 318,096
Goodwill 45,996 44,251
Intangible assets 139,273 137,651
Property, plant, and equipment 108,962 108,625
Investments accounted for using the equity method 6,803 6,804
Financial assets (12) 71
Other non-current assets 4,415 4,079
Deferred tax assets 14,849 16,686
Current assets 157,533 140,002
Inventories 65,501 55,508
Trade receivables 75,356 57,210
Income tax assets 685 821
Other current assets 5,820 5,721
Cash and cash equivalents (8) 10,171 20,742
Total assets 477,902 458,098
Equity and liabilities
Equity attributable to equity holders of the parent (9) 23,530 23,756
Subscribed share capital 207 207
Share premium 106,454 106,454
Legal reserve 21 21
Retained earnings -79,042 -69,601
Accumulated other comprehensive income -4,110 -13,325
Non-current liabilities 361,216 364,732
Pensions and other similar benefits 12,785 12,364
Other provisions 5,072 4,736
Interest bearing loans and borrowings (11) 308,940 304,500
Finance lease liabilities 132 171
Other financial liabilities (12) 3,732 9,006
Other liabilities 259 260
Deferred tax liabilities 30,296 33,695
Current liabilities 93,156 69,610
Pensions and other similar benefits 2,014 1,914
Other provisions 8,083 8,156
Interest bearing loans and borrowings (11) 5,323 5,530
Finance lease liabilities 277 336
Trade payables 61,418 40,874
Income tax liabilities 3,230 3,129
Other liabilities 12,811 9,671
Total equity and liabilities 477,902 458,098

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

2010
Attributable to equity holders of the parent
Retained Accumulated
other com
prehensive
kEUR Subscribed
share capital
Share
premium
Legal
reserve
earnings income Total
equity
(Note 9) (Note 9)
As of 01/01/10 207 106,454 21 -69,601 -13,325 23,756
Comprehensive income
for the year
-9,441 9,215 -226
As of 03/31/10 207 106,454 21 -79,042 -4,110 23,530
2009
Attributable to equity holders of the parent
Retained Accumulated
other com
prehensive
kEUR Subscribed
share capital
Share
premium
Legal
reserve
earnings
(Note 9)
income
(Note 9)
Total
equity
As of 01/01/09 207 106,454 19 -20,686 -13,924 72,070
Comprehensive income
for the year
-8,339 2,180 -6,159
As of 03/31/09 207 106,454 19 -29,025 -11,744 65,911
Cash flow from operating activities
Result before tax
-9,464
-
Finance income
-131
+
Finance expenses
12,617
+/- Share of net profit of investments accounted for using the equity method
113
+
Amortization, depreciation, impairment of intangible assets
and property, plant, and equipment
5,441
+
Allowance of current assets
219
+
Loss on disposal of property, plant, and equipment
120
+
Dividends from investments accounted for using the equity method

Result before change of net working capital
8,915
-
Change in other provisions and pensions
-160
-/+ Change in inventories
-7,425
-/+ Change in trade receivables and other assets
-16,444
+/- Change in trade payables and other liabilities
22,306
Cash flow from operating activities before income tax paid
7,192
-9,704
-112
7,042
-447
5,392
235
20
16
2,442
-2,659
10,005
5,850
-10,187
5,451
-
Income tax paid
(7)
-1,047
-359
Net cash flow from operating activities
6,145
5,092
Cash flow from investing activities
-
Acquisition of subsidiaries net of cash acquired
-346
-
Purchase of property, plant, and equipment
-848
-1,461
-
Purchase of intangible assets
-265
-532
-
Purchase of investments accounted for using the equity method
-13
-11
+
Proceeds from sales of property, plant, and equipment
98
640
+
Interest received
82
15
Net cash flow from investing activities
-946
-1,695
Cash flow from financing activities
+
Proceeds from Management and Board of Directors loan
1,244
-
Repayments of Management and Board of Directors loan
(11)
-109
-
Payments for finance lease
-95
-104
-
Interest paid
-3,289
-5,409
-
Reduction of current and non-current financial liabilities
(11)
-13,000
-2,084
+
Proceeds from current and non-current financial liabilities
(11)
10,270
Net cash flow from financing activities
-16,493
3,917
Net decrease/increase in cash and cash equivalents
-11,294
7,314
Net foreign exchange difference
723
-374
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period
(8)
20,742
8,557
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period
(8)
10,171
15,497

1 CORPORATE INFORMATION

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.

2 SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

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 first quarter of 2010 have been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 "Interim Financial Reporting." As a rule, the same accounting policies and consolidation methods were applied as in the Group's annual financial statements for the fiscal year 2009. Therefore, the consolidated interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Group's annual financial statements as of December 31, 2009. Exceptions to the accounting principles stated there are new or revised standards and interpretations, whose application is required beginning in fiscal year 2010 and which have not been adopted early (see annual report 2009). The new regulations, how ever, have no significant impact on the consolidated interim financial statements.

During the preparation of the consolidated interim financial statements, management must 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 deviate from these estimates.

Expenses and income incurred irregularly during the fiscal year were brought forward or deferred if it would also be appropriate to do so at the end of the fiscal year.

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

3 SEASONAL EFFECTS

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.

4 SCOPE OF CONSOLIDATION

Compared to December 31, 2009, the scope of consolidation has not changed.

5 SEGMENT INFORMATION

For management purposes, the Group is organized into customer-oriented Business Units based on their products and services. The three reportable operating segments are the Business Units Trailer Systems, Powered Vehicle Systems, and Aftermarket. There has been no change in the division of operating segments since December 31, 2009. For more information, please see the notes of the 2009 annual report.

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

Adjusted EBIT 4,778 -481
Restructuring and integration costs 120 540
Additional depreciation and amortization on PPA 1,636 1,753
EBIT 3,022 -2,774
Share of net profit of investments accounted for using the equity method -113 447
Operating result 3,135 -3,221
kEUR Q1/2010 Q1/2009

Information on segment sales and earnings for the first quarter:

2010
Business Units
kEUR Trailer
Systems
Powered
Vehicle
Systems
Aftermarket Adjustments/
eliminations
Consolidated
Sales 56,685 27,506 41,094 125,285
Adjusted EBIT -5,004 4,859 5,867 -944 4,778
2009
Business Units
kEUR Trailer
Systems
Powered
Vehicle
Systems
Aftermarket Adjustments/
eliminations
Consolidated
Sales 47,133 26,708 38,219 112,060
Adjusted EBIT1) -7,939 3,681 5,079 -1,302 -481

1) Internal allocations between the business units have been adjusted in December 2009 due to the changes in market situation. To allow a better comparison, the adjusted EBIT for the business units have been adjusted to conform to the new structure.

Adjustments and eliminations include expenses of the parent company as well as other expenses and income which are not allocated to any Business Unit.

Please see the Group Interim Management Report regarding earnings development.

6 FINANCE EXPENSES

Finance expenses consist of the following:

Total -12,617 -7,042
Other -686 -766
Finance expenses due to derivatives -5,505 -1,085
Finance expenses due to pensions and similar benefits -187 -95
Amortization financing costs -543 -225
Interest expenses due to interest bearing loans and borrowings -5,696 -4,871
kEUR Q1/2010 Q1/2009

In connection with the termination of the old interest rate hedgings and the completion of a new agreement (see Notes 11 and 12), one-time effects in the amount of kEUR 5,505 to be recognized in profit or loss were incurred. Of that amount, kEUR 2,420 is primarily attributable to the change in the market values of the old interest rate hedge for the period from January 1 to the day of termination on March 19, 2010. The remaining kEUR 3,085 result from the initial recognition of the new interest rate hedging instruments in accordance with IAS 39.

7 INCOME TAXES

The major components of income taxes are as follows:

Deferred income taxes 1,220 1,841
Current income taxes -1,197 -476
kEUR Q1/2010
Q1/2009

The effective tax rate in the first quarter of 2010 was 0.24%, compared to 14.07% in the corresponding period in the previous year.

8 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

Total 10,171 20,742
Short-term deposits 1,113 13,355
Cash at banks and on hand 9,058 7,387
kEUR 03/31/10 12/31/09

9 EQUITY

Dividend

No dividend payment was approved for 2009.

Change in accumulated other comprehensive income

Total 9,768 -553 9,215 4,849 -2,669 2,180
Changes in fair values of
derivatives designated as hedges,
recognized in equity
1,687 -553 1,134 -101 -2 -103
Exchange differences
on translation of foreign
operations
8,081 8,081 4,950 -2,667 2,283
kEUR Before
tax
amount
Tax
expenses
Net of
tax
amount
Before
tax
amount
Tax
expenses
Net of
tax
amount
Q1/2010 Q1/2009

10 EARNINGS PER SHARE

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the result for the year attributable to shareholders of SAF-HOLLAND S.A. by the average number of shares outstanding. Earnings per share can be diluted by potential ordinary shares. No dilutive effects occurred during the period under review or in the comparison period for 2009.

Basic and diluted earnings per share EUR -0.46 -0.40
Weighted average number of shares outstanding thousands 20,702 20,702
Result for the year kEUR -9,441 -8,339
Ergebnis je Aktie Q1/2010 Q1/2009
Non-current Current Total
kEUR 03/31/10 12/31/09 03/31/10 12/31/09 03/31/10 12/31/09
Interest bearing collateralized
bank loans 305,313 313,969 404 379 305,717 314,348
Financing costs -11,206 -11,033 -11,206 -11,033
Bank overdrafts 183 178 381 519 564 697
Success fee 591 47 591 47
Accrued interests 3,352 132 3,352 132
Management and Board of
Directors loans 1,268 1,339 1,268 1,339
Other loans 9,439 4,538 4,500 13,977 4,500
Total 308,940 304,500 5,323 5,530 314,263 310.030

11 INTEREST BEARING LOANS AND BORROWINGS

On November 29, 2009, an agreement was signed with a bank syndicate that restructures the financing existing up to this point, extends the existing credit lines until September 2014 and ensures supply of short and long-term finance. The refinancing agreement was ap proved by the shareholders on December 18, 2009. The agreed credit line has a volume of EUR 316.6 million. It consists of a Euro tranche (Facility A1), a US dollar tranche (Facility A2), a multi-currency revolving credit line (Facility B) and a credit line in China which is separately collateralized. The regulations resulting from the restructuring of the financing as well as the collateral granted are described in the annual report as of December 31, 2009.

The increase in accrued interests results from the agreed PIK structure, which means that a portion of the interests is not payable until a later point.

The existing management loan including interest due to Dr. Reiner Beutel was repaid due to his resignation.

The increase in other non-current loans results from the reclassification of the liability due to the refinancing of the old-swaps (see Note 12).

Determination of overall liquidity as the total of available credit lines plus cash:

Total 305,717 299,372 316,566 10,171 27,365
Bank overdraft China 404 404 655 251
Facility B 171,857 171,857 188,800 10,171 27,114
Facility A2 61,545 55,200 55,200
Facility A1 71,911 71,911 71,911
kEUR Amount drawn
valued as at
the period-end
exchange rate
Amount drawn
valued as at the
borrowing date
exchange rate
03/31/10
Agreed credit lines
valued as at the
borrowing date
exchange rate
Cash and cash
equivalents
Total
liquidity

12/31/09

Total 314,348 311,778 316,525 20,742 25,489
Bank overdraft China 379 379 614 235
Facility B 184,288 184,288 188,800 20,742 25,254
Facility A2 57,770 55,200 55,200
Facility A1 71,911 71,911 71,911
kEUR Amount drawn
valued as at
the period-end
exchange rate
Amount drawn
valued as at the
borrowing date
exchange rate
Agreed credit lines
valued as at the
borrowing date
exchange rate
Cash and cash
equivalents
Total
liquidity

12 FINANCIAL ASSETS AND OTHER FINANCIAL LIABILITIES

Financial assets

kEUR

71
71

Other financial liabilities

Prolongation
options for
Interest rate interest rate New interest
swaps swaps rate swaps Total
-1,477 -7,529 -9,006
2,313 -626 1,687
-845 -1,554 -3,106 -5,505
9 -337 -328
9,420 9,420
-3,732 -3,732
Old interest rate swaps

As a result of the extended credit line in November 2009, the interest rate hedgings were also re-aligned. Effective March 19, 2010, the existing interest rate hedging instruments were replaced in full and new instruments were concluded with the banks. The hedging ratio, which is the ratio between current basic interest rate payments and contracted interest rate hedgings, was increased from approx. 50% to 82%. Following the reorganization, the hedging structure consists of Euribor-/Libor-swaps with maturities until June 2014 as well as interest rate caps which take effect when the interest rate exceeds 2.5%. The devel opment of the notional amounts of the swaps and caps are matched as to constantly reach the target hedging ratio of 82% over the course of the term until June 2014. The compensatory payment from replacing the existing old swaps is financed by the former contractual partners of these swaps over a period until June 30, 2014. The resulting liability of kEUR 9,420 was reclassified to "Interest bearing loans and borrowings" as of March 19, 2010 (see Note 11).

Contractual maturities of interest rate swaps and caps:

Collateral Start End Nominal volume Reference rate
Swap March 19, 2010 June 30, 2014 EUR 143.8 million to
EUR 187.0 million
Euribor
Swap March 19, 2010 June 30, 2014 USD 77.6 million Libor
Cap March 19, 2010 December 30, 2012 EUR 61.6 million to
EUR 10.0 million
Euribor

13 RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES

Management Board und Board of Directors

Compared to December 31, 2009, the composition of the Management Board and Board of Directors has not changed.

Further details regarding loans granted in February 2009 by members of management and the Board of Directors are provided in Note 11.

Transactions with related parties and companies in which the key management personnel of the Group hold key management positions:

Q1/2010 03/31/10
kEUR Sales to
related parties
Purchases from
related parties
Amounts owed
by related
parties
Amounts owed
to related
parties
SAF-HOLLAND Nippon, Ltd. 204 213 184
Lakeshore Air LLP 21 22
FWI S.A. 1,187 163
Irwin Seating Company1) 271 84
Total 475 1,208 460 206

1) The Irwin Seating Company is a company in which a member of the Group's management holds a key management position.

Q1/2009 12/31/09
kEUR Sales to
related parties
Purchases from
related parties
Amounts owed
by related
parties
Amounts owed
to related
parties
Jinan SAF AL-KO Axle Co., Ltd. 582) –2)
SAF AL-KO Vehicle Technology Yantai Co., Ltd. –2) 572)
SAF-HOLLAND Nippon, Ltd. 23 68 182
Lakeshore Air LLP 35 28
FWI S.A. 3,462 3
Irwin Seating Company1) 218 56
Total 299 3,554 152 185

2) Due to the reciprocal sale of shareholdings, SAF AL-KO Vehicle Technology Yantai Co., Ltd. and Jinan SAF AL-KO Co., Ltd. are included in the disclosures on revenue and expenses on a pro-rata basis until March 31, 2009.

14 CASH FLOW STATEMENT

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

15 EVENTS AFTER THE BALANCE SHEET DATE

At the Annual General Meeting on April 22, 2010 it was decided to extend the mandates from Ulrich Otto Sauer (Deputy Chairman) and Rudi Ludwig until April 2013 and April 2012 respectively. At his request and for personal reasons, Dr. Siegfried Goll will leave the committee when his contract expires on June 18, 2010. As part of the reduction in the size of the committee resulting from the corporate restructuring, the Company will not appoint a successor to Dr. Siegfried Goll in the Board of Directors.

On May 14, 2010, Pamplona Capital Partners I, LP, informed the Company that it had sold its 34.5% of voting shares on May 12 to 14 institutional investors from England, Germany and the USA. With Pamplona having left the circle of shareholders, the free float has in creased to 79.1%, management and former owners hold the remaining 20.9% of shares.

No further material events have occurred since the reporting date.

Financial Glossary

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 as well as restructuring and integration costs.

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

Days inventory outstanding: Inventory / cost of sales per day

Equity ratio: Equity / total assets x 100.

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

Gross margin: Gross profit / sales x 100.

IFRS/IAS (International Financial Reporting Standards/International Accounting Standards): The standard international accounting rules are intended to make company data more comparable. Under the EU resolution, accounting and reporting at exchange-listed companies must be done in accordance with these rules.

Net working capital: Current assets minus cash and cash equivalents minus other provisions minus income tax liabilities minus trade payables minus other current liabilities.

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

R&D ratio: R&D costs and capitalized development costs / sales x 100.

Sales per employee: Sales / average number of employees

SDAX: The SDAX is the selection stock market index for 50 smaller companies in Germany, "small caps".

Technical Glossary

Fifth wheel

Mounts with the kingpin and serves to secure the semi-trailer to the tractor unit. In addition to its traditional products, SAF-HOLLAND manufactures technical specialties such as a lubricant-free fifth wheel and especially lightweight aluminum designs.

Suspension

The suspension creates the link between the axle and the ve hicle in order to compensate for road irregularities and improve maneuv era bi lity. The SAF-HOLLAND suspension system with its modular design can be used for up to three interlinked powered axles. Each axle is suspended individually. Suitable for gross vehicle weights of between 10 and 40 tons.

Kingpin

Mounts on the semitrailer and couples with the tractor fifth wheel. SAF-HOLLAND products are sold around the world and are among the safest on the market.

Landing legs

Retractable legs that support the front of a semi-trailer when it is not secured to the tractor unit. SAF-HOLLAND landing legs have a special coating that increases their ser vice life significantly.

Axle system

INTRADISC plus INTEGRAL is a unique axle system for trailers, which consists of the axle itself fitted with a disk

brake and the air suspension system.

Under certain preconditions, and taking into account the existing warranty terms, SAF-HOLLAND

provides maintenance free of charge for a period of 72 months or 1 million kilometers for the INTRA ALL-IN axle system.

Financial Calendar and Contact Information

Financial Calendar

August 26, 2010 Publication of Q2 Report November 18, 2010 Publication of Q3 Report

Contact Information

SAF-HOLLAND Group GmbH Barbara Zanzinger Hauptstraße 26 63856 Bessenbach Deutschland

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

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

Imprint

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

Editorial deadline: May 25, 2010
Date of publication: May 27, 2010
Editorial office: Cortent Kommunikation AG, Frankfurt am Main
Design and realization: wagneralliance Werbung GmbH, Offenbach am Main
Translated by: MBETraining & Translation, Wiesbaden

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 ability to successfully integrate acquired businesses and achieve 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 presentation. 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 these materials.

www.safholland.com

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