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Picanol NV

Annual Report Mar 7, 2012

3988_10-k_2012-03-07_6e61cbee-0045-4a2b-a1b0-32ccbc60690b.pdf

Annual Report

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COMPANY PROFILE

The Picanol Group is an international, customer-oriented group specialized in development, production and sale of weaving machines and other high-tech, industrial products, systems and services.

Division Weaving Machines:

Picanol develops, manufactures and sells high-tech weaving machines based on air (airjet) or rapier technology. Picanol supplies weaving machines to weaving mills worldwide, and also offers to its customers products and services as weaving accessories, training, upgrade kits, spare parts and service contracts. For seventy-five years, Picanol has played a pioneering role in the industry worldwide, and is one of the current world leaders in weaving machine production.

Division Industries:

Proferro comprises all foundry activities and the group's machining activities. It produces cast iron parts for e.g. compressors, pumps and agricultural machinery, and parts for Picanol weaving machines. Through PsiControl Mechatronics, the group specializes in the design, development, manufacturing and support of technological components, services and mechatronical system solutions for original equipment manufacturers in various industries. Melotte develops and produces innovative product solutions using Direct Digital Manufacturing (DDM) and Near-to-Net-Shape Manufacturing (NNSM) technologies.

The Picanol Group employees operate all over the world to serve their customers. The 1,909 employees together cover a wide range of high-tech products, systems and services, giving customers a lead over their competitors and creating added value.

In addition to the head office in Ypres (Belgium), the Picanol Group has production facilities in Asia and Europe, linked to its own worldwide sales and service network.

In 2011, the Picanol Group celebrated its 75th anniversary.

The Picanol Group in 2011:

Consolidated turnover: 466.95
million euros
Employment 1,909

NYSE Euronext Brussels: PIC Web www.picanolgroup.com

CONTENTS

PRESENTATION OF THE PICANOL GROUP 4

At the service of customers worldwide

Organizational chart of the group

Profile Weaving Machines

Profile Industries

Human Resources

Environment, Health & Safety

Quality & World Class Manufacturing
4
4
5
7
8
REPORT BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS 9

Letter to the Shareholders

Main events 2011

Activities report Weaving Machines

Activities report Industries

Corporate Governance
9
10
11
13
14
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 25

Definitions

Financial statements

Notes to the consolidated financial statements
26
27
32
STATUTORY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF
PICANOL NV
74
REPORT BY THE AUDITOR 76
INFORMATION FOR SHAREHOLDERS 78

Shares & listing

Annual
information

Glossary

Addresses
78
79
80
81

PRESENTATION OF THE PICANOL GROUP

AT THE SERVICE OF CUSTOMERS WORLDWIDE

The Picanol Group aims to be present in all important markets at the service of customers. For this purpose the group has a worldwide service and sales network that is continually adapted to the changing markets and the specific needs of customers. Through its network of highly trained, specialized and results-oriented employees and agents, the Picanol Group aims to create value for its customers all over the world. A number of crucial functions that depend on the know-how of the headquarters in Belgium are managed centrally. Matters specifically related to products made in the foreign production plants are dealt with locally. This ensures not only uniform implementation of the strategy and consistency of sales and marketing policy in the various markets, but also faster exchange of information between customers and personnel all over the world.

PROFILE WEAVING MACHINES

ACTIVITIES

The Weaving Machines division (Picanol) covers all activities regarding development, production and sale of high-tech weaving machines and supplementary products and services. Picanol develops, manufactures and sells high-tech weaving machines based on air or rapier technology (rapier). For seventy-five years, Picanol has played a pioneering role in the industry worldwide, and it is one of the current world leaders in weaving machine production. All development and production related activities of the weaving machines are concentrated in Ypres (Belgium) and Suzhou (China).

The division Weaving Machines consists of three parts:

  • Marketing, Sales & Services markets weaving machines to customers all over the world, and is in charge of spare parts sales and aftermarket services. In Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Turkey and the US, this is organized through own local organizations.
  • Product Development comprises all integrated R&D activities.
  • Operations comprises all activities concerning sourcing, logistics, quality and assembly.

MARKET OVERVIEW

Picanol has for many decades served the entire world market, both for rapier and for airjet technology. The high-tech Picanol weaving machines and supplementary products and services are sold through its own branches and through a network of agents worldwide. Picanol sells weaving machines, spare parts and weaving accessories to weaving mills worldwide in various textile segments. There are three main segments for fabric products, namely apparel (clothing), household textiles and technical textiles (e.g. airbags, medical textile, parachute and tire cord). Due to a continued focus on achieving a maximum production rate in combination with a minimum consumption of raw materials and energy, Picanol has managed to consolidate a solid market share in the apparel segment. Within the household segment, Picanol was able to strengthen its position, especially with the successful launch of the OptiMax and GTMax for weavers of interior textiles. Picanol's growing presence in the technical textiles segment offers attractive growth niches, thanks to significant investments in the development of customized machines.

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Weaving Machines

Airjet weaving machine Rapier weaving machine

High-end:

OMNIplus Summum

OMNIplus 800

TERRYplus 800

Mid-end:

GTXplus

Picanol also offers its customers upgrade kits, spare parts, preventive maintenance programs and service contracts. In addition, it also brings a number of weaving accessories on the market such as reeds, air reeds, frames and heddles. The production of these accessories takes place in Belgium, France and Mexico under the brand names Burcklé and GTP.

OptiMax

PROFILE INDUSTRIES

Industries comprises all companies that develop and produce industrial products for original equipment manufacturers.

PROFERRO

ACTIVITIES

Proferro comprises the foundry and the machining activities (Engineered Casting Solutions) of the Picanol Group. The ambition of Proferro is to offer engineered casting solutions for medium sized series (500 to 20,000 pieces), in a long-term, value-driven partnership. Proferro aims to be the preferred partner for applications in which the customer focuses on modules and components with high added value.

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Proferro produces cast iron (lamellar and nodular) parts for compressors, pumps and agricultural machinery, and parts for Picanol weaving machines. When it comes to mechanical finishing, the group has various facilities both for prototyping and for series production using a very wide range of technologies including CNC machining, gear cutting, grinding, thermal treatment and welding.

MARKET REVIEW

Proferro supplies other original equipment manufacturers in various market segments worldwide such as agricultural machinery, earthmoving equipment, compressors, textile machinery and general engineering. By combining casting, mechanical finishing, assembly and co-design it is able to cater successfully to the growing demand for larger, more technically difficult coreintensive parts.

PSICONTROL MECHATRONICS

ACTIVITIES

PsiControl Mechatronics covers mechatronics with locations in Ypres (Belgium), Rasnov (Romania) and Suzhou (China). PsiControl Mechatronics concentrates on design, development, production and support for electronic and mechatronic systems.

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

PsiControl Mechatronics offers custom solutions engineered around real-time controllers, power electronics and electronically-controlled motors. By using its own platforms it is able to reduce development times and permit high-performance, cost-effective solutions. For this purpose PsiControl Mechatronics has R&D and prototyping departments in Ypres and procurement, production and service activities in its branches in Belgium, Rasnov and Suzhou.

MARKET REVIEW

PsiControl Mechatronics concentrates mainly on original equipment manufacturers in sectors where reliable performance is crucial. PsiControl Mechatronics currently acts as supplier to various sectors such as textile machinery, compressors and fleet management.

MELOTTE

ACTIVITIES

Melotte in Zonhoven (Belgium) develops and produces innovative product solutions using Direct Digital Manufacturing (DDM) and Near-to-Net-Shape Manufacturing (NNSM) technologies. Direct Digital Manufacturing is a symbiosis between two different manufacturing methods: the analogue one that produces through means of degenerative processes (material removal) and the digital processes where material growth is used. DDM combines both methods, low impact material growth and high-end finishing.

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Melotte offers solutions in the form of high-tech components characterized by high precision, complex shapes, special materials, short delivery times and great reliability of operation. Melotte has specialized know-how in DDM and NNSM technologies in metals, concentrating on titanium, Inconell, cobalt-chromium, ceramics, tool steel and aluminum. The range is completed by related support services such as reverse engineering and modeling, magnesium molding, laser scanning, optical measurement and thermodynamic analysis.

MARKET REVIEW

Melotte supplies a highly diversified international market, including the petrochemical industry, construction of specialist medical equipment, chemicals and pharmaceuticals. With the introduction of new production processes it is able to tackle new markets in addition to the existing customer segments.

HUMAN RESOURCES

The Picanol Group's position as market leader and its technological leadership - in various areas with so many products - are due entirely to its members of personnel. The employees in the Picanol Group work together over a wide range of high-tech products, systems and services, giving customers a lead over competitors and creating added value. At the end of 2011 the Picanol Group worldwide employed 1,909 people.

VISION

The Picanol Group is convinced that its employees are what make the difference and are crucial for the group's competitiveness. Its committed Human Resources policy is therefore designed to develop the Picanol Group into an organization in which all employees can develop themselves for the benefit of the Picanol Group and their personal skills.

ENVIRONMENT, HEALTH AND SAFETY

Care for the environment forms an essential part of the corporate policy. The Picanol Group systematically takes account of the environment in its operating processes, and tries to minimize the impact of its activities on the environment by constantly paying close attention to more energy consumption and waste management. The health and safety of employees are also of great concern to the Picanol Group, including such aspects as ergonomics, accident prevention and protection on the work floor. Numerous safety questions are examined and dealt with each year in collaboration with the Committee for Prevention, Protection and Welfare at Work. One important part of the policy is the voluntary participation of many members of personnel, including first aiders, the internal firefighting team and the safety monitors who ensure that the necessary training courses are given annually in each department.

QUALITY & WORLD CLASS MANUFACTURING

Quality is a priority for all subsidiaries and employees worldwide. The group has a team of internal ISO 9001 auditors who form a crucial link in the quality process. Every year various internal audits are carried out with a view to continually fine-tuning the quality system. In addition the Picanol Group focuses worldwide on World Class Manufacturing (WCM). World Class Manufacturing or WCM stands for constantly striving to eliminate losses, with the involvement of all employees, so as to become a world class company. The Picanol Group began its WCM program in 1998 to obtain its purpose. Currently it focuses on the themes of cost development, continuous improvement, self-management, planned maintenance, total quality, training, health and safety and the environment. Various management audits are held on an annual basis, with the management of the different departments following the implementation of WCM. The Picanol Group also has a suggestion system that enables employees to put forward proposals for workrelated improvements. In recent years, further steps have been taken in the implementation of self-managing teams within the Picanol Group.

REPORT BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

LETTER TO THE SHAREHOLDERS

Dear shareholder,

Like the year before, 2011 proved to be another good year for the Picanol Group. As previously announced, the Picanol Group realized a consolidated turnover of 466.95 million euros over the full financial year, which represented an increase in turnover of 18% compared to 395.77 million euros in 2010.

The Weaving Machines division had another strong year. The first half of 2011 was characterized by a sustained high global demand for Picanol weaving machines, supported by the favorable exchange rate of the yen and the weaker euro. This resulted in a strong demand for weaving machines produced in Ypres, whereby increased attention was paid to handling the various production peaks caused by the strong order book. Sales of spare parts and accessories also did well. In the second half of the year, global demand for weaving machines slowed, under the influence of the increasing uncertainty due to the European debt crisis and limited availability of funding for investments.

R&D and product innovation continued to play a central role in the further development of the high-technology activities of the Picanol Group in 2011. The company celebrated its 75th anniversary with the introduction of two new products at ITMA Barcelona, the four-yearly textile machinery exhibition.

In 2011, the Industries division was able to continue the positive trend of 2010 by taking full advantage of its new molding line (Proferro), and its controller capacities (PsiControl Mechatronics).

As a result of the strong turnover growth in both divisions and sustained cost control, the Picanol Group managed to close 2011 with a net profit of 61.01 million euros, compared to a net profit of 35.24 million euros in 2010.

Dividend

The Board of Directors will propose to the General Meeting on 18 April 2012 not to pay out a dividend for the 2011 financial year. The Board believes that more value can be created within the group by investing in R&D, automation and robotics, and other investment projects.

Outlook

For 2012, the Picanol Group takes into account a further slowdown of the weaving machine market. This is partly because of the growing economic uncertainty and limited availability of funding for investments, which means that customers are more cautious and investment decisions may be delayed or postponed. For 2012, the Picanol Group expects a further growth in the Industries activities, albeit differentiated into the different markets. The Picanol Group remains cautious, as it is active as an export-oriented company in a volatile world economy. In view of the cyclical nature of the textile market, strict cost control remains of the essence.

2012 promises to be another challenging year and both we and our employees are looking forward to taking on this challenge. Through the commitment, flexibility and enthusiasm of our employees, the Picanol Group was able to continue growing in 2011. The basis of the success of the Picanol Group, now more than ever, is the quality, professionalism and motivation of all our employees worldwide.

Managing Director Chairman

Luc Tack Stefaan Haspeslagh

MAIN EVENTS IN 2011

  • In September, Picanol celebrated its 75th anniversary with the launch of two new products at ITMA Barcelona, the four-yearly textile machinery exhibition. The new airjet weaving machine OMNIplus Summum and the positive rapier (a newer version of the OptiMax) were introduced.
  • In order to put its rich history in the spotlight, the Picanol Group published the book 'Picanol – more than weaving machines' in the fall of 2011.
  • In September 2011, the Picanol Group signed an agreement with Groz-Beckert KG for the sale of the Steel Heddle activities of GTP Greenville. The Picanol gravity point in Greenville, which is responsible for sales and service of Picanol weaving machines and spare parts in the US, continues to operate as Picanol of America Inc.
  • In October 2011, the Picanol Group acquired the high-tech machinery of TBP Electronics Belgium NV from Geel. The acquisition fits into the growth plans of PsiControl Mechatronics focusing fully to the further expansion of its controller capacities.

WEAVING MACHINES ACTIVITIES REPORT

As was the case in 2010, the Weaving Machines division again experienced a strong year in 2011.

The first half of the year was characterized by a persistent high global demand for Picanol weaving machines, supported by the favorable exchange rate of the yen and the weakened euro. This resulted in a strong demand for weaving machines produced in Ypres, whereby increased attention was paid to handling the various production peaks caused by the strong order book. The sale of parts and accessories also did well.

In the second half of the year, global demand for weaving machines slowed, under the influence of the increasing uncertainty due to the European debt crisis and limited availability of financial resources for investment.

In 2011, Picanol continued to focus on R&D and product innovation to expand its technological market leadership. From 22 September to 29 September 2011, Picanol participated in the 16th edition of the quadrennial ITMA, the largest exhibition for textile machinery manufacturers, which this time was staged in Barcelona. This event saw Picanol introduce the new high-end airjet weaving machine OMNIplus Summum. In addition, Picanol launched the first positive reaper (a new version of the OptiMax), which in particular offers prospects for the weaving of technical textiles (e.g. coatings, geogrids etc) and very wide fabrics (up to 540 cm). The new weaving machines were very well received and clearly demonstrate the technological leadership of Picanol. For further information regarding the new Picanol weaving machines, please visit http://fittowin.picanol.be/and http://www.picanol.be.

In 2011, Picanol was also able to present itself as a technological market leader in both airjet and rapier weaving machines at a number of other international trade fairs, such as DTH - Dhaka International Textile & Garment Machinery Exhibition (Bangladesh), Techtextil Frankfurt (Germany), Vietnam Saigon Textile & Garment Industry Expo, and Techtextil India in Mumbai.

Throughout 2011, Picanol further expanded its product range with new market-oriented features that focus on the one hand on the efficient use of the globally increasingly costly commodities and energy, while on the other hand the focus is on the growing shortage of specialized workers in the textile industry.

In 2011 the Picanol Group has signed an agreement with Groz-Beckert KG regarding the sale of the Steel Heddle activities of GTP Greenville. Groz-Beckert KG has taken over all shares of GTP Greenville (Steel Heddle division) as of 20 September 2011. The production of section frames and special heddles for the PMC (paper making cloth) industry was however transferred to Burcklé, a subsidiary of the Picanol Group in France. Burcklé will be further developed into an accessories center for reeds, section frames and twin wire heddles. The GTP brand will be used on frames produced in Ieper, and section frames and brazed eye heddles produced in Burcklé. Verbrugge continues to focus on the production of frames like the HybridPower 158, the XLF 152 and the AluPower 124, both for Picanol and other weaving machines. The Picanol gravity point in Greenville, responsible for sales and service of Picanol weaving machines and spare parts in the US continues its operations under a new legal entity, Picanol of America Inc.

Outlook

For 2012, the Group has taken a further potential slowdown into account in the weaving machine market. This is partly because of the growing economic uncertainty and limited availability of financial resources for investment, which means that customers are more cautious and investment decisions may be delayed or postponed. The slowdown on the Western export markets of the Asian weavers will not yet be fully compensated for by the growth of local Asian markets. Meanwhile, Picanol will continue to expand its role as technological market leader in 2012 by expanding the product range of its weaving machines and by offering applications for new market segments. The main challenge remains to strengthen the performance, quality and cost competitiveness of our customers.

INDUSTRIES ACTIVITIES REPORT

In 2011, the Industries division again succeeded in continuing the positive trend of 2010 by fully taking advantage of its new molding line (Proferro), and its controller capacities (PsiControl Mechatronics)

Proferro

In 2011, Proferro was able to further meet the growing demand for larger and technically more difficult castings. With its two modern molding lines - the HWS and the Taccone - Proferro is able to deliver cast iron products in both large and small series of castings, with a weight ranging from 5 kg to 500 kg. Proferro's three-pillar strategy of casting, finishing and assembling is increasingly appreciated by the market. As part of furthering the automation and robotization, Proferro invested in the enhanced development of its mechanical finishing department in 2011. This involved, among other things, the purchase of two new 5-axis multitasking machining centers. This allows Proferro to offer the customer a total solution, from development to subassemblies that are ready to be assembled. By strongly focusing on a broader political presence in the market and supported by a positive investment climate, Proferro managed to expand its customer portfolio in 2011 with new customers in various sectors for both casting and for the finishing of castings. This resulted in an increase in the activities in several sectors, such as compressors, agricultural and earthmoving machinery, and textile machinery.

PsiControl Mechatronics

Last year, PsiControl Mechatronics again strongly focused on its customized controllers, putting the emphasis on large customers and growth segments, such as HVAC (heating, ventilation & air conditioning). This resulted in an increase in R&D activities and an increasing demand for electronic products and assemblies. This had a positive effect on employment in the factories in Ypres (Belgium) in tandem with Rasnov (Romania). The production of large-volume series in Romania has become an important part of PsiControl Mechatronics in recent years.

In autumn 2011, the Picanol Group purchased the high-tech machinery of TBP Electronics Belgium NV from Geel (Belgium). The key elements include four SMD lines, two wave soldering lines, and two selective soldering lines for surface mounting and soldering printed circuit boards. In addition, the Picanol Group purchased a large amount of high-tech laboratory and test equipment. The purchase fits into the growth plans of PsiControl Mechatronics, which focuses on the further expansion of its controller capacities.

Melotte

Melotte experienced a strong diversification in both chemical and biomedical industries in 2011. The total integration of the digital factory was further optimized and the business model of integrated digital solutions is clearly appreciated by the market. The expansion of the digital activities has strengthened Melotte's market position, and has had a cross-fertilizing effect. In 2011, Melotte was awarded the 'All Star Innovation Award' by the Chamber of Commerce.

Outlook

With the growing economic uncertainty and increased volatility in commodity prices (cokes, steel scrap etc), the Industries division is remaining cautious as regards 2012. Due to the expected slowdown in the weaving machine market, Industries will mainly focus on further growth at external customers, albeit differentiated into various distinct markets. In 2012, the Picanol Group will continue on the path of further expanding its Industries activities through targeted investments in automation and robotics. For example, for 2012, further investments are planned at Proferro in new CNC-machines for the processing of larger castings in nodular as well as lamellar cast iron. In 2012, PsiControl Mechatronics will also focus on integrating the machinery of TBP Electronics in Ypres and Rasnov. Melotte expects stable growth for both activities, and a strong international presence in new markets during 2012.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE DECLARATION

The Picanol Group applies the Belgian Corporate Governance code 2009 as reference code. This chapter presents the application of this policy in 2011.

For the general operations of the Board of Directors, the subcommittees of the Board of Directors and the Management Committee as far as they relate to corporate governance policy, readers are referred to the Corporate Governance Charter on the website www.picanolgroup.com.

I. BOARD OF DIRECTORS

I.1. Composition of the Board of Directors

HONORARY CHAIRMAN Mr. Emmanuel Steverlynck

BOARD OF
DIRECTORS
Chairman
Mr. Stefaan Haspeslagh (1)
Directors Mr. Luc Tack (1) Managing Director
Mr. Luc Van Nevel
permanent representative of The Marble BVBA (2)
until 20 April 2011
Chairman of the Audit
Committee
Member of the Nomination &
Remuneration Committee
Baron Hugo Vandamme
permanent representative of HRV NV (2)
Chairman of the
Nomination &
Remuneration Committee
Member of the Audit
Committee
Mr. Frank Meysman,
permanent representative of M.O.S.T. BVBA (2)
Member of the Audit
Committee
Until 20 April 2011
Chairman of the Audit
Committee
As from 21 April 2011
Member of the Nomination &
Remuneration Committee
Mr. Jean Pierre Dejaeghere
permanent representative of NV Kantoor Torrimmo
(2)
Member of the Audit
Committee
Member of the Nomination &
remuneration committee
As from 21 April 2011
Mr. Patrick Steverlynck (1),
permanent representative of Pasma NV
Director

(1) executive director (2) non-executive independent director

Company secretary & Compliance Officer

Mss. Karen D'Hondt, Group Controller

The Board of Directors is made up of six members, three of them being non-executive directors. Three of the directors are independent in the sense of art. 524 of the Company Code, as required by the Corporate Governance Charter of the Picanol Group.

Under the guidance of the Chairman the directors assessed the operation of the Board of Directors and the collaboration with the Management Committee, in order to ensure that it functions efficiently.

As part of the inclusion of women with the required competencies according to our Corporate Governance-rules in the Board of Directors, the Picanol Group will comply with the statutory regulations and deadlines, and therefore commence the search in due time.

I.2. Activities of the Board of Directors during the past financial year

The Board of Directors met six times in 2011, Mr. Frank Meysman and Mr. Hugo Vandamme were both once excused

In 2011 the Board of Directors dealt with among others the following matters:

  • The monthly reporting, the quarterly and half-year figures, the annual accounts, the annual report and the agenda for the General Meetings;
  • The 2012 budget, the business plan and the long-term strategy;
  • The reports of the Audit Committee and the Nomination & Remuneration Committee;
  • Transactions with related parties
  • Investment en divestments records

I.3. Evaluation of the Board

The Board of Directors, led by the Chairman, makes an annual self-assessment to determine the efficient operating of the Board and its committees. The evaluation has following objectives:

  • assess the operation of the Board
  • examine whether the topics are thoroughly prepared
  • assess the actual contribution of each Director
  • examine the current composition of the Board in the light of the desired composition

The Nomination and Remuneration Committee receives notes from the Directors and annually reports to the Board of Directors with an assessment of the operating of the Board.

II. SUBCOMMITTEES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

II.1. Audit Committee

Composition of the Audit Committee

The members of the Audit Committee are Messrs. Luc Van Nevel (as permanent representative of The Marble BVBA, until 20 April 2011), Frank Meysman (as permanent representative of M.O.S.T. BVBA), Baron Hugo Vandamme (as permanent representative of HRV NV) and Jean Pierre Dejaeghere (as permanent representative of NV Kantoor Torrimmo, as from 21 April 2011).

In accordance with art. 526 bis of the Company Code, the Picanol Group declares that the Chairman of the Audit Committee, Mr. Luc Van Nevel (until 20 April 2011) and Frank Meysman (as from 21 April 2011), meet the requirements of independence and have the necessary expert skills in accounting and auditing.

Meetings of the Audit Committee

The Committee met four times in 2011. Apologies for absence were received once from Mr. Frank Meysman.

Special attention was paid to:

The half-yearly and annual results, with the auditor's report;

  • The internal audit report;
  • Management letter of the auditor

After each meeting the Audit Committee reported through its Chairman to the Board of Directors about the above mentioned matters, and gave its advice with a view to decisions by the Board.

Evaluation of the Audit Committee

Each year, the Chairman of the Committee reports to the Board of Directors on the operation of the Audit Committee, which is checked against the Corporate Governance Charter and other relevant criteria approved by the Board of Directors.

II.2. Nomination & Remuneration Committee

Composition of the Nomination & Remuneration Committee

The members of the Nomination & Remuneration Committee are Mr. Luc Van Nevel (as permanent representative of The Marble BVBA, until 20 April 2011)), Frank Meysman (as permanent representative of M.O.S.T. BVBA), Baron Hugo Vandamme (as permanent representative of HRV NV) and Jean Pierre Dejaeghere (as permanent representative of NV Kantoor Torrimmo, as from 21 April 2011).

Meetings of the Nomination & Remuneration Committee

The Committee met two times during the report year. The following subjects were discussed, among others:

  • Remuneration of the Management Committee
  • Remuneration of the Directors
  • Management and sales incentive plan

The Chairman of the Nomination & Remuneration Committee reported on these matters to the Board of Directors after the meetings, and gave its advice with a view to decisions by the Board.

Evaluation of the Nomination & Remuneration Committee

Each year, the Chairman of the Committee reports to the Board of Directors on the operation of the Nomination & Remuneration Committee, which is checked against the Corporate Governance Charter and other relevant criteria approved by the Board of Directors.

III. MANAGEMENT AND DAY-TO-DAY MANAGEMENT

The Management Committee is made up as follows:

  • Luc Tack, Managing Director
  • Findar BVBA, represented by Mr. Stefaan Haspeslagh, CFO
  • Cathy Defoor, Vice-President Industries
  • Geert Ostyn, Vice-President Weaving Machines
  • Johan Verstraete, Vice-President Marketing, Sales & Service
  • VOF Pretium Plus, represented by Mr. Philip De Bie, Vice-President Accessories & IT

The Management Committee meets weekly to determine the day-to-day management of the company.

IV. REMUNERATION REPORT

IV.1. Procedure for the development of a remuneration policy and establishment of the remuneration levels for the Board of Directors and executive managers.

The procedure for developing a remuneration policy and establishment of the remuneration levels for the members of the Board of Directors and the Management Committee is defined by the Board at the proposal of the Nomination & Remuneration Committee.

At the proposal of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, in 2010 the Board of Directors reviewed the remunerations of non-executive directors. The compensation in 2011 remained unchanged as compared to 2010.

At the proposal of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, in 2011, the remunerations of the members of the Executive Management were approved by the Board of Directors in so far as they involved changes to the running contracts.

IV.2. Remuneration policy

The remuneration of non-executive directors comprises a fixed annual fee plus fees for attendance at Committee and Board meetings.

The remuneration of executive directors consists of a fixed fee only. Executive directors receive neither a variable remuneration nor performance awards in shares.

The remuneration of executive managers consists of a fixed fee plus a variable fee based on company results. The variable fee for 'on target' performance lies between 25% and a maximum 50% of the fixed fee. Executive managers do not receive performance awards in shares. Currently, no recovery right has been determined through which the company may reclaim variable fees that have been awarded on the basis of inaccurate financial data.

We do not expect any material changes in the remuneration policy in the next two years.

In EUR Fixed
Remun
eration
Attendance
fees
Manag
ement
Remun
eration
Other Total
2011
Stefaan Haspeslagh * executive 60,000 - - 60,000
Luc Tack executive - - - -
Patrick Steverlynck,
as representative of
Pasma NV
executive - 246,000 - 246,000
Frank Meysman, as
representative of
M.O.S.T. BVBA
non
executive
10,000 10,000 - 20,000
Hugo Vandamme, as
representative of
HRV NV
non
executive
10,000 10,000 - 20,000
Luc Van Nevel,
as representative of
The Marble BVBA
non
executive
5,000 4,000 - 9,000
Jean Pierre
Dejaeghere, as
representative of NV
Kantoor Torrimmo
non
executive
5,000 8,000 13,000

IV.3. Remuneration of the Directors

* Chairman of the Board of Directors

Several financial services were billed by Findar BVBA for 270 kEur in regard to the 2011 financial year. This company is a related party in the sense that Mr. Stefaan Haspeslagh is also a director.

IV.4. Evaluation criteria of the performance-based fees of executive managers

With the exception of executive directors, executive managers receive a variable fee based on company results. The criteria for the 2011 variable fee are laid down in a contract and are based on:

  • the results of the group: 65%
  • divisional and individual results: 35%

The criteria are established and evaluated annually, whereby the performance-related criteria are based on the group budget. The evaluation of the performance criteria is carried out by the Managing Director in consultation with the Remuneration Committee.

IV.5. Remuneration of the Managing Director

In EUR
Name Luc Tack
Fixed remuneration -
Variable remuneration -
Total -
Pension -
Other benefits -

The Managing Director doesn't receive long-term cash incentive plans.

IV.6. Remuneration of the other members of the Executive Management

In EUR
Fixed remuneration 840,110
Variable remuneration 320,000
Total 1,160,110
Pension Fixed contribution: 58,450
Other benefits
*
7,855

* remuneration company car

The level and structure of the remuneration of other members of the Management Committee seek to enable the company to attract and motivate qualified managers. The remuneration is regularly checked to ensure that it corresponds with market trends.

The other members of the Executive Management do not receive long term cash incentive plans.

The members of the Management Committee do not receive directors' fees for the companies where they fulfill a director's position.

IV.7. Shares awarded to the Executive Management

Neither the Managing Director nor the members of the Executive Management are awarded shares or share options. No share option plans for the Managing Director or the other executive managers exist at present.

IV.8. Termination compensation

No termination fees exist for the Managing Director or the other executive managers. A notice period of twelve to eighteen months applies for the other executive managers.

IV.9. Deviation

At the General Meeting of Shareholders on 20 April 2011, the shareholders proposed to vote on a deviation from the provisions set out in the Corporate Governance, with regard to provisions on bonuses. Furthermore, the shareholders approved the Board of Directors to deviate from the provisions of the Corporate Governance in relation to provisions on the distribution of bonuses in time. The bonuses of the other members of the executive management were therefore paid out in one sum.

VI. AUDITOR'S REMUNERATION

The auditor received an amount of 140,000 euros for performance of his audit task in 2011.

In the course of 2011 the auditor and the Auditor related parties charged 11,000 euros for tax and legal advice.

VII. RISK MANAGEMENT AND INTERNAL CONTROL

The Picanol Group internal control system aims at safeguarding:

  • achievement of the company goals;
  • reliability of the company's financial and non-financial information;
  • compliance with the rules and regulations.

Internal control is built on five pillars: the control environment; risk analysis and control activities; information and communication and finally, supervision and corrective action.

VII.1. Control environment

Organization of internal control:

The Audit Committee is charged with monitoring the efficacy of the control and risk management systems. The responsibilities of the Audit Committee as regards financial reporting, internal control and risk management are detailed in the Corporate Governance Charter (available on the website www.picanolgroup.com).

The Audit Committee also supervises the activities of the Internal Auditor. The latter prepares an annual planning based on a risk analysis and carries out specific audit assignments at the request of the Management Committee or the Board of Directors. He reports his findings and recommendations directly to the Audit Committee.

Management information control is the competence of the controlling team. The compliance function is performed by the Company Secretary.

For each position, the company has defined a clear competence framework as well as distinct management responsibilities.

Company ethics:

The Company has defined a Corporate Governance Charter and a code of good practice.

VII.2. Risk analysis

Picanol performs regular analyses of the risks involved in its activities. In 2010, a risk analysis was carried out. All of the key employees were asked to review their risk assessment and the evolution of several risk factors was determined. An estimate of the risks according to their impact and company vulnerability subsequently resulted in action plans that are regularly monitored by the Management Committee. The entire set of risk factors and action plans was evaluated by the Audit Committee. In 2011 an evaluation was made of the progress on the various action plans. This evaluation was discussed in the Audit Committee.

This analysis ultimately led to the identification of risks and definition of measures described below.

Risks associated with the company's activities

The company faces heavy competition and is subject to technological developments, and this will remain so in the future. If the company fails to keep up with these technological developments, this could limit the market opportunities for its products or potential products, with a negative impact on its operating and financial results. The market for Picanol's products is highly competitive. Competitors include established companies with possibly greater financial, R&D, sales, marketing and personnel resources than Picanol, and which may also have more experience in developing, producing, marketing and supporting new technologies and products. The fields in which the company operates are characterized by technological development and innovations. There can be no guarantee that competitors are not already developing technologies and products that are as just as efficient and/or as cheap – or even more so – than anything the company has now or may develop in future. Competing products may be accepted more readily by the market than the company's own products, and technological progress by competitors may lead to the company's products becoming uncompetitive or obsolescent before the company is able to recover its R&D and marketing costs. If the company is not able to compete effectively, then its activities may suffer considerably.

Picanol may not be able to protect its intellectual property rights.

The company's future success depends to a large extent on its ability to protect its existing and future brands and products, and similarly to protect its intellectual property rights, including trademarks, patents, domain names, trade secrets and know-how. Picanol has managed to register various trademarks and patents to cover its brands and products, and it has applied to register other trademarks and patents to cover its newly developed brands and products, and expects to apply for further brand names and patents in future. However, Picanol cannot be certain of obtaining registration of the trademarks and patents applied for. There is also the risk of Picanol failing to renew a trade mark or patent in time, or competitors being able to invalidate or circumvent any existing or future trademarks or patents granted to Picanol or licensed by it. Picanol cannot be certain that the steps taken by it to protect its portfolio of intellectual property rights (including trade mark registrations and domain names) will be sufficient, or that third parties will not violate these property rights or illegally appropriate them. Furthermore, some countries in which Picanol operates offer less protection for intellectual property rights than in Europe. If Picanol is unable to protect its property rights against violation or misappropriation, this could have a significant negative impact on its activities, operating results, cash flows or financial situation, and in particular Picanol's ability to further develop its activities.

Picanol's operating results are influenced by exchange rate fluctuations.

In 2011 Picanol earned the majority of its income from countries that use currency other than the euro. Consequently, since Picanol presents its consolidated results in euros, any fluctuation in the exchange rates between the operating currencies of its competitors and the euro has an impact on its consolidated income statement and balance sheet when the results of these operating companies are converted into euros for reporting purposes. In addition to the exchange rate risk, Picanol is exposed to currency transaction risks whenever one of its operating companies carries out transactions in a currency other than its own operating currency; this includes sale and purchase operations, as well as the issuing or creation of debt. In particular, part of Picanol's operating costs (including raw materials costs) are expressed in or linked to the US dollar. Falls in the value of the operating currencies used by Picanol's operating companies, against the currencies in which their costs and expenditure are expressed, generally result in higher costs and expenditures for these operating companies and have a negative effect on their operating margins. The company manages a portfolio of derivatives in order to hedge against exchange rate-related risks arising from operational and financial activities. Currency risks are hedged to the extent that they affect the company's cash flows. However, the company cannot guarantee that this policy will offer effective cover against the effects of exchange rates, especially in the longer term. Risks attendant upon the translation of the assets and obligations of foreign activities into the company's reporting currency are not hedged against.

Risks associated with dependency on particular customers

Picanol does not have any customers that account for more than 10% of its turnover, and so is not exposed to specific customer risk.

Risks associated with the state of the economy and business cycles

Picanol mainly operates in the weaving machine sector, offering products used for the production activities of companies in the textile industry. Accordingly, the company's future results are strongly dependent on developments in the textile industry. Unexpected changes in the economic climate, the investment cycles of customers, significant developments in the development of technology and its acceptance by the market can all have an influence on this industry, and consequently on the company's results. After the very difficult years 2008 and 2009 the demand for new weaving machines experienced a strong revival in 2010 and 2011. Picanol however acknowledges the possibility that demand for weaving machines worldwide could be lower in the coming years.

Picanol is exposed to risks associated with growth economies

A significant proportion of Picanol's activities, representing some 75% of its turnover in 2011 – is derived from growth economies such as China, Turkey, Brazil, Pakistan, Indonesia and India, as well as other rapidly-developing South American and Asian markets. Picanol's activities in these markets are subject to the usual risks associated with doing business in developing economies, such as political and economic uncertainties, currency controls, nationalization or expropriation, crime and disorder, political unrest, external intervention, exchange rate fluctuations and shifts in government policy. Such factors can influence Picanol's results by disrupting its activities or raising its operating costs in these countries, or by limiting Picanol's ability to repatriate its profits. The financial risks in growth economies also include risks associated with liquidity, inflation, devaluation, price volatility, non-convertibility of currency and failure to meet payment obligations. These various factors can negatively impact Picanol's activities, operating results and financial situation. As a result of Picanol's specific exposure, these factors may influence its position more than that of customers with lower exposure to developing economies, and any dip in the growth economies as a whole may have a relatively greater impact on Picanol than on its competitors.

Picanol may not be able to attract or retain personnel for key positions

To develop, support and sell its products Picanol must be able to attract and retain skilled employees with specialist know-how. Picanol's strategy could be undermined by the company's inability to attract or retain employees in key positions, or by the unexpected loss of experienced employees. Picanol's success also depends on its ability to maintain good relations with its members of personnel. A significant majority of Picanol employees in various of its activities are members of labor unions. Walkouts or strikes – which tend to occur during renegotiation of collective labor agreements – could impair Picanol's ability to carry out its activities. No guarantees can be given against an increase in labor costs negatively impacting Picanol's activities, operating results or financial results

Picanol's activities are also subject to environmental regulations, compliance with which could bring substantial costs, and which could also lead to disputes in environmental matters

The Picanol activities are subject to the environmental regulations of national, federal and local authorities, which in some cases may even impose no-fault liability. Consequent liability on the part of Picanol could negatively impact its activities. The environmental regulations in the markets where Picanol operates are becoming ever stricter, with growing emphasis on compliance. While Picanol has set aside a budget for compliance with environmental legislation in its future capital expenditure and operating expenditure, no guarantees can be given against Picanol incurring significant environmental liability, or against the relevant environmental legislation or regulations changing or becoming even stricter in future.

Picanol's insurance cover may not be sufficient

The cost of some of Picanol's insurance policies may increase in future. Furthermore, certain types of loss e.g. due to war, terrorist attack or natural disasters are usually not insured, because insurance to cover them is either unobtainable or economically unfeasible. Indeed, insurance companies are increasingly unwilling to cover these types of events. If an uninsured loss occurs, or if the amount of the loss is greater than the cover, then this may negatively impact the activities, operating results and financial situation of Picanol.

The company depends on outsourcing arrangements

The company depends on outsourcing arrangements for certain activities, mainly in IT. Although the company always strives to contract out its activities only to reputable companies with the relevant specialist experience, it has no or only limited control over such third parties, and so cannot guarantee that they will meet their obligations in full and in good time. Should such third parties fail to meet their obligations, then this could have a significant negative impact on Picanol's activities.

Picanol may not be able to obtain the necessary financing to meet its future capital and refinancing requirements

Picanol may be obliged to raise additional financing to meet its future capital needs or to refinance its present debt burden, by means of public or private financing, strategic relationships or other agreements. There is no guarantee that the financing – should it be necessary – will be available at attractive conditions, or even available at all. Furthermore, any debt financing – if available – may result in restrictive conditions being imposed. Should Picanol be unable to carry out a capital increase or to finance its debt whenever necessary, this could negatively impact its activities, operating results and financial situation.

Risks involved in supplying products and services

The solutions offered by Picanol incorporate various products (hardware and/or software), technologies and services (hardware and/or software) which may contain hidden production defects. Since these products, technologies and services represent substantial investments and changes to operating activities on the part of customers, any serious defects or faults could damage the company's reputation. Furthermore, the company might be required to carry out expensive, time-consuming repairs. Production defects or malfunctions could also lead to losses being suffered by customers, in which case the customers could demand compensation from Picanol. Defending against such claims could be time-consuming and expensive, as well as generating adverse publicity, causing the company to lose customers. Although the company's sales & service agreements generally contain clauses intended to limit its exposure to product liability claims, certain laws or unfavorable court decisions could impair the effectiveness of such liability limitation. The company has product liability insurance which it considers commensurate with practice in the industry, but it cannot guarantee that its present coverage is sufficient to meet potential product liability claims against it, or that it will be able to obtain or maintain sufficient insurance at acceptable conditions in the future. The company currently does not have any outstanding substantial claims against it for the supply of goods and services. During the past 3 years no claims were pronounced at the expense of the company.

Risks associated with suppliers

Picanol's products are made up of materials and components from various suppliers. To be able to produce, sell and deliver its products, Picanol has to rely on correct and timely delivery by third parties. Should the company's suppliers fail to supply correctly, in time or indeed at all, this could lead to Picanol's deliveries in turn being delayed or incomplete, which could lead to lower turnover. For some key components Picanol is dependent on a single supplier, but in all such cases the supplier is an established company that can be relied upon not to stop production of the products concerned or to make changes to its product range. The company has fully charted all these key components and evaluated their criticality. For the most critical of these it tries to line up a second supplier, so as to limit the company's dependence on suppliers. Although the company has identified alternative suppliers, there is no guarantee against these suppliers stopping production of the products concerned or making changes to their product range, or against Picanol being able to obtain alternative products at acceptable conditions. The group is dependent on its three largest suppliers for 13% of its turnover.

Risks associated with exposure to credit risks on trade accounts receivable

Picanol is exposed to credit risks on trade accounts receivable from certain co-contractors. Should one of the present or future large co-contractors not be able to meet its trade debts, then the company could suffer loss as a result. There is no certainty of the company being able to limit its potential losses of income from customers who are not able to pay in time.

Risks associated with disputes, court cases and/or other procedures

The company is involved in three ongoing disputes.

The first dispute concerns an environmental claim. Although the Picanol management considers it unlikely for this dispute to be decided against Picanol, such an eventuality cannot be ruled out. A decision against Picanol could have a substantial impact on the company's results. A provision of 1.4 million euros has been set aside to cover this dispute, based on the company's own estimate of the clean-up costs if the company is obliged to clean up the ground on the Roeselare site. This in-house estimate is based on the last known indicative soil survey, adjusted for inflation. The 2 other disputes concern a claim concerning the execution of a sales contract and a possible dispute on an environmental issue. The management considers these claims unjust and therefore hasn't constructed a provision.

. VII.3. Control activities

An important factor in control activities is the annual budgeting process that involves a check of the company's strategy, risk factors, business plans and targeted results. The realization of set targets is being monitored by the controlling team on a monthly basis and thoroughly discussed with the individual business units during dashboard meetings.

Operational risks are safeguarded through periodical audits carried out by an Internal Auditor, who also monitors compliance with processes and procedures. Special attention is given to the security of IT systems, segregation of duties, clear job descriptions for all employees and the existence of distinct procedures and guidelines.

VII.4. Information and communication

In order to provide reliable financial information, Picanol uses a globally standardized reporting structure as well as globally applied IFRS valuation rules (which are published in the annual report). The controlling team is responsible for checking the coherence of the reported figures submitted by the subsidiary firms.

The information system for financial data management is backed up on a daily basis and access to the system is limited.

VII.5. Supervision and control

Supervising authority is vested in the Board of Directors and executed through the Audit Committee via control of the quarterly reports, validation of the internal audit program and evaluation of the risk factors and related action plans.

VIII. SHAREHOLDER STRUCTURE AND AGREEMENTS, AND CERTIFICATE HOLDER AGREEMENTS

HOLDERS OF VOTING
RIGHTS
NUMBER OF VOTES % OF VOTES
Mr. Patrick Steverlynck 550 0.00%
Oostrotex NV 10,649,021 60.16%
Symphony Mills NV 1,740,431 9.83%
Stichting Administratiekantoor
Picanol
3,262,461 18.43%
TOTAL 15,652,463 88.43%

Oostrotex NV is controlled by Mr. Luc Tack. Mr. Luc Tack controls Symphony Mills NV, that together with Sofines BV and Pasma NV (both controlled by Mr. Patrick Steverlynck) jointly controls STAK Picanol.

IX. INSIDER TRADING AND MARKET RIGGING

The Trading Regulations lay down the conditions under which shares in the company can be acquired or disposed of by directors and key employees, in compliance with the relevant legislation. The Trading Regulations are being explained in the Corporate Governance Charter available on the website www.picanolgroup.com.

X. APPLICATION OF ART. 523 OF THE COMPANY CODE

There were no new transactions in 2011 that required the application of Article 523.

Xb. APPLICATION OF ART. 524 OF THE COMPANY CODE

There were no new transactions in 2011 that required the application of Article 524.

XI. OBLIGATIONS TO PROVIDE PERIODIC INFORMATION AS A RESULT OF THE DISCLOSURE GUIDELINES IN FORCE AS OF 1 JANUARY 2009

Declaration concerning the information given in this report for the 12 months ending on 31 December 2011.

The undersigned declare that:

  • The half-yearly accounts drawn up as per the standards applying to annual accounts give a true picture of the assets, the financial situation and the results of the reporting company and of the enterprises included in the consolidation;
  • The report for the 12 months ending on 31 December 2011 gives a true picture of the company's results and developments, and of the position of the reporting company and of the enterprises included in the consolidation, along with a true description of the main risks and uncertainties facing them.

Luc Tack, Managing Director

Stefaan Haspeslagh, Chairman of the Board of Directors

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

I. DEFINITIONS 26
II. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 27
II.1. CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT 27
II.2. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET 29
II.3. CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT 30
II.4. STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 31
III. NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF THE
YEAR
ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2011
32
III.1. SUMMARY OF THE VALUATION RULES 32
III.2. CRITICAL ACCOUNTING JUDGEMENTS AND KEY SOURCES OF ESTIMATION
CERTAINTY 41
III.3. CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES APPLIED 41
III.4. CHANGES IN SCOPE OF CONSOLIDATION 41
III.5. SEGMENT INFORMATION 41
III.6. INCOME STATEMENT 45
III.7. BALANCE SHEET 51
III.8. MISCELLANEOUS 70
STATUTORY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF PICANOL NV 74
STATUTORY AUDITOR'S REPORT 76
INFORMATION FOR SHAREHOLDERS 78
I. DEFINITIONS
Associated companies Companies in which Picanol has a significant influence and which
are accounted for under the equity method.
Shareholders' equity Shareholders'
equity,
including
minority
interests,
for
the
calculation of ratios.
Joint ventures Entities
under
joint
control
and
which
are
proportionally
consolidated.
Net assets Net liabilities + shareholders' equity
EBIT Operating result
EBITDA EBIT + depreciation and impairment of assets
+ adjustments
of write-offs on inventories and trade receivables
+ adjustments of other provisions.
Subsidiaries Entities under the control of Picanol and which are fully
consolidated.
Working capital Inventories + trade receivables –
trade payables

down payments received –
remuneration and social security
contributions

taxation at source on remuneration.
Gross margin Sales –
cost of sales
Export finance Bank loans to refinance credit granted to our customers, secured
by
bills of exchange or promissory notes accepted by our
customers.

II. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The consolidated financial statements were approved for publication by the Board of Directors on 24 February 2012.

II. CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT

PICANOL GROUP ( in '000 euros) NOTES (*) 31/12/2011 31/12/2010
Sales III.5. 466,953 395,774
Cost of sales -365,814 -313,832
GROSS PROFIT 101,139 81,942
Gross profit % on sales 21.7% 20.7%
General and administrative expenses -17,538 -18,011
Selling and marketing expenses -16,337 -16,337
Other operating income III.6.1. 9,721 609
Other operating expenses III.6.2. -916 -1,474
OPERATING RESULT III.5.2. 76,069 46,730
Total interest income III.6.4. 1,138 1,077
Total interest expenses III.6.4. -750 -1,116
Other financial income III.6.4. 892 1,178
Other financial expenses III.6.4. -621 -978
PROFIT OR LOSS BEFORE TAXES 76,728 46,891
Income taxes III.6.5. -15,716 -11,648
PROFIT OR LOSS 61,013 35,244
SHARE OF THE GROUP IN PROFIT OR LOSS 61,013 35,244

(*) The accompanying notes are an integral part of this income statement.

EARNINGS PER SHARE

PICANOL GROUP (in '000 euros) TOELICHTING 31/12/2011 31/12/2010
Basic earnings per share III.6.7. 3.45 1.99
Diluted earnings per share III.6.8. 3.45 1.99

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
31/12/2011 31/12/2010
PROFIT/(LOSS) FROM THE PERIOD 61,013 35,244
Other elements of the total result from the
period
2,868 2,771
Exchange rate differences 2,868 2,771
Other elements of the total result after taxes
from the period
2,868 2,771
TOTAL RESULT 63,881 38,015

II.1. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

PICANOL GROUP (in '000 euros) NOTES (*) 31/12/2011 31/12/2010
FIXED ASSETS 62,386 67,032
Intangible assets III.7.1. 5,306 5,902
Goodwill III.7.2. 0 0
III.7.3. &
Tangible fixed assets III.7.4. 52,484 55,215
Other financial investments III.7.6. 79 77
Non-current receivables III.7.7. 911 3,693
Deferred tax assets III.6.5. 3,606 2,143
CURRENT ASSETS 225,877 153,639
Inventories and contracts in progress III.7.8. 43,996 47,741
Trade receivables III.7.9. 46,703 56,473
Other receivables III.7.9. 24,555 21,662
Cash and cash equivalents III.7.10. 110,623 27,763
TOTAL ASSETS 288,263 220,671
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY II.4. 162,828 98,948
Share capital III.7.11. 21,720 21,720
Share premiums III.7.12. 1,518 1,518
Reserves 134,695 73,683
Translation differences 4,895 2,027
Equity attributable to the shareholders of the group 162,828 98,948
Minority interests 0 0
NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES 25,778 22,559
Employee benefit obligations III.7.13. 9,138 10,076
Provisions III.7.14. 1,790 1,754
Deferred tax liabilities III.6.5. 8,618 2,209
Interest-bearing debt III.7.15. 6,232 8,520
Financial leases III.7.17. 5,696 7,363
Credit institutions III.7.15. 536 1,157
Other liabilities III.7.16. 0 0
CURRENT LIABILITIES 99,657 99,167
Employee benefit obligations III.7.13. 1,276 1,276
Provisions III.7.14. 6,917 5,741
Interest-bearing debt III.7.15. 2,506 4,073
Trade payables III.7.19. 49,676 49,386
Income taxes payable III.7.19. 2,290 2,778
Other current liabilities III.7.19. 36,992 35,913
TOTAL LIABILITIES 288,263 220,671

(*)The accompanying notes are an integral part of this balance sheet.

II.3. CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT

PICANOL GROUP (in '000 euros) 31/12/2011 31/12/2010
Operating result 76,069 46,730
Depreciation on intangible and tangible fixed assets 8,951 9,176
Impairment losses of assets 438 260
Write-offs on assets
Changes in provisions
-385
274
2,020
-2,271
(Profit)/loss on the disposal
of assets
1,815 324
Gross cash flow from operating activities 87,162 56,239
Changes in working capital 5,692 -29,228
Cash flow from operating activities 92,853 27,011
Income taxes -11,561 -1,815
Net cash flow from operating activities 81,292 25,196
Divestments 9,466 0
Interest received 1,138 1,077
Acquisitions of intangible fixed assets -552 -1,055
Acquisitions of tangible fixed assets -6,874 -3,722
Net cash flow from investment activities 3,178 -3,700
Interest paid -750 -1,116
Increase/(decrease) of export financing
Repayments of interest-bearing financial debt
-1,860
-1,995
-3,451
-10,007
Cash flow from finance activities -4,605 -14,374
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations 2,994 1,796
Adjustments to cash and cash equivalents 82,860 8,918
Net cash position -
opening balance
27,763 18,845
Net cash position -
closing balance
110,623 27,763
82,860 8,918

II.4. STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
Share
capital
Share
premiums
Retained
earnings
Translation
differences
Total
before
minority
interests
Minority
interests
Total after
minority
interests
At the end of the preceding period 21,720 1,518 73,683 2,027 98,948 0 98,948
Changes in scope of consolidation 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Result over the reporting period 0 0 61,013 0 61,013 0 61,013
Translation differences 0 0 0 2,868 2,868 0 2,868
Other 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total recognized profits and losses 0 0 61,013 2,868 63,881 0 63,881
Dividends 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
At the end of the reporting period 21,720 1,518 134,695 4,895 162,829 0 162,829

For the year ending on 31 December 2010

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
Share
capital
Share
premiums
Share
premiums
Translation
differences
Total
before
minority
interests
Minority
interests
Total after
minority
interests
At the end of the preceding period 21,720 1,518 38,440 -744 60,934 0 60,934
Changes in scope of consolidation 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Result over the reporting period 0 0 35,244 0 35,244 0 35,244
Translation differences 0 0 0 2,771 2,771 0 2,771
Other 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total recognized profits and losses 0 0 35,244 2,771 38,015 0 38,015
Dividends 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
At the end of the reporting period 21,720 1,518 73,684 2,027 98,948 0 98,948

The increase in the translation differences is due to the positive evolution of the RMB (both Chinese plants) compared to the historic exchange rates.

III.1. SUMMARY OF THE VALUATION RULES

STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE – PRINCIPLES FOR THE COMPILATION OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Since 1 January 2005, the consolidated financial statements of the Picanol Group have been compiled in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as drawn up by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and approved by the European Union.

III.1.2. GENERAL PRINCIPLES

Basis of presentation

The consolidated financial statements are expressed in thousands of euros. They have been compiled on the basis of the historical cost convention.

The application of the above-mentioned standards has an impact on the presentation of the financial statements in terms of the accounting principles, but has not led to any significant changes.

The valuation rules have consistently been applied to the year 2011, and also to the previous financial year and the opening balance on the IFRS transition date, except for the following standards that came into application in 2011.

Standards and interpretations applicable for the annual period beginning on 1 January 2011

  • Improvements to IFRS (2009-2010) (normally applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2011)
  • Amendment to IFRS 1 First Time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards – IFRS 7 exemptions (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2010)
  • Amendment to IAS 24 Related Party Disclosures (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2011). This Standard supersedes IAS 24 Related Party Disclosures as issued in 2003.
  • Amendments to IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation – Classification of Rights Issues (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 February 2010)
  • IFRIC 19 Extinguishing Financial Liabilities with Equity Instruments (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2010)
  • Amendment to IFRIC 14 IAS 19 – The Limit on a Defined Benefit Asset, Minimum Funding Requirements and their Interaction – Prepayments of a Minimum Funding Requirement (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2011)

Standards and interpretations published, but not yet applicable for the annual period beginning on 1 January 2011

  • IFRS 9 Financial Instruments and subsequent amendments (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2015)
  • IFRS 10 Consolidated Financial Statements (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2013)
  • IFRS 11 Joint Arrangements (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2013)
  • IFRS 12 Disclosures of Interests in Other Entities (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2013)
  • IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurement (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2013)

  • Amendments to IFRS 1 First Time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards – Severe Hyperinflation and Removal of Fixed Dates for First-time Adopters (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2011)

  • Amendments to IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures – Derecognition (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2011)
  • Amendments to IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures – Offsetting Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2013)
  • Amendments to IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements - Presentation of Items of Other Comprehensive Income (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2012)
  • Amendments to IAS 12 Income Taxes – Deferred Tax: Recovery of Underlying Assets (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2012)
  • Amendments to IAS 19 Employee Benefits (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2013)
  • Amendments to IAS 27 Separate Financial Statements (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2013)
  • Amendments to IAS 28 Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2013)
  • Amendments to IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation – Offsetting Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2014)
  • IFRIC 20 Stripping Costs in the Production Phase of a Surface Mine (applicable for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2013)

Foreign currency

The presentation currency of the Picanol Group is EUR.

Transactions denominated in foreign currencies are accounted for at the exchange rates prevailing at the date of the transaction. At each balance sheet date, any monetary assets and liabilities that are expressed in foreign currency are translated at the closing rate.

Any non-monetary assets and liabilities carried at fair value and denominated in a foreign currency are translated at the rate of exchange applicable at the time when their fair value was determined. Any profits and losses which result from these transactions are recognized in the income statement as part of the financial result.

Assets and liabilities of the group's foreign operations are translated at the closing rate. Profits and losses are translated at the average exchange rate over the period. Any currency exchange differences resulting from this will be recognized in shareholders' equity, under 'translation differences'. Upon disposal of the foreign operation, the accumulated exchange rate differences as recorded in equity, will be recognized in the income statement

Consolidation principles

Subsidiaries

The consolidated financial statements include all subsidiaries of which the group has acquired control. Control means that Picanol NV has the power to control the financial and operational strategy of the entity in order to benefit from its activities. Such control is supposed to exist when Picanol NV holds, either directly or indirectly, over 50% of the voting rights of the entity. The existence and effect of potential voting rights, practicable or convertible at that time, are taken into consideration when evaluating if the group has the power to control the financial and operational strategy of another entity.

Subsidiaries are those companies in which Picanol NV holds, either directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the voting rights or in which Picanol NV can exert, either directly or indirectly, a deciding influence on company strategy.

Acquisitions of subsidiaries are accounted for on the basis of the purchase method.

The transferred remuneration of a business combination is valued at the total fair value on the date of the acquisition, of transferred assets, liabilities entered into or taken over, and the equity interests issued by the acquirer. As of 2010 the transfer related costs are being charged to the results. The identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities of the acquirer that meet the conditions for recognition under IFRS 3 Business combinations are recognized at the fair value on the purchase date with the exception of the fixed assets (or groups of assets disposed of) classified as held for sale in accordance with IFRS 5 Fixed assets held for resale and discontinued operations. Each minority interest in the acquired party will be recognized at the minority share of the net fair value of the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities.

The financial statements of the subsidiaries are recognized in the consolidation scope from the moment that Picanol NV acquires control until the date on which this control ceases.

The financial statements of the subsidiaries bear the same reporting date as that of the parent company. These financial statements are compiled on the basis of uniform principles for financial reporting for comparable transactions and other events in similar circumstances. Balances and transactions, profits and losses within the group are totally eliminated.

III.1.3. BALANCE SHEET

Intangible assets

Intangible assets are valued at cost less accumulated depreciation and any impairment losses.

Internally generated intangible assets

Research expenditure is charged to the income statement when incurred. Internally generated development expenses are only recognized as intangible assets if they meet the following criteria:

  • An identifiable asset has been created.
  • It is probable that the created asset will generate economic benefits that will flow to the entity.
  • The development cost of the asset can be measured reliably.
  • It is technically possible for internally-generated intangible fixed assets to be produced in such a way that they are available at a later date for use or sale.
  • The intention and the ability exists to use or sell these intangible assets.
  • The necessary technical, financial and other resources are available to complete their development and to assist in their use or sale.

Capitalized development costs are depreciated on a straight-line basis over a period of 5 years, from the moment a weaving machine is launched onto the market. This is in line with the average lifecycle of a weaving machine.

Separately acquired intangible assets

Patents and licenses

The costs of acquired patents and licenses are depreciated on a straight-line basis over their useful life, with a maximum useful life of 5 years.

Computer software

External and internal costs directly linked to the purchase of or to the installation of business software applications for ERP, Supply Chain, CRM, etc. are capitalized as intangible assets. These are depreciated on a straight-line basis over their useful life, which is equivalent to 5 years

Goodwill

The acquirer shall recognize goodwill as of the acquisition date measured as the excess of the aggregate of the consideration transferred, which generally requires acquisition-date fair value, the amount of any non-controlling interest in the acquiree and in a business combination achieved in stages, the acquisition-date fair value of the acquirer's previously held equity interest in the acquiree over the net of the acquisition-date amounts of the identifiable assets acquired and the liabilities assumed.

Goodwill is measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses.

The cash generating unit to which goodwill is allocated is checked every year for impairment, and whenever there is an indication that the unit has experienced impairment. The impairment test is performed by comparing the book value of a unit with the realizable value. If the realizable value is lower than the book value, the impairment is first imputed against the goodwill allocated to the

unit, and then to the other assets of the unit in direct proportion to the book value of each asset in the unit. An impairment loss recorded for goodwill cannot be reversed at a later date.

If the interest of the Picanol Group in the recognized net fair value of the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities exceeds the cost of the business combination, then:

  • (a) The identification and the valuation of the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities of the acquired party and the cost valuation of the business combination will be assessed; and
  • (b) Any surplus remaining after that assessment will immediately be recognized in the income statement.

Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are recognized in the balance sheet at the historical cost of acquisition less accumulated depreciation and any impairment. The historical cost of acquisition includes the actual purchase price plus any incidental costs incurred to bring the asset to its working condition and location for it intended use. Borrowing costs are not capitalized.

Any subsequent costs associated with tangible fixed assets are generally immediately expensed within the period in which they occur. Such costs are only capitalized if it can be demonstrated that the economic benefits generated by this expenditure will be higher than their initial estimated performance standard, and that the cost of the asset can be measured reliably.

The costs of dismantling and removing tangible fixed assets and the costs of regular maintenance are viewed as later expenditures that do not generate any additional economic benefits for these assets. As laid down in the accounting principles, these costs are immediately charged to the result for the period in which they arise. If there are material dismantling costs of major overhauls, then these are treated in accordance with IAS 16.13-14.

Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis as follows:

  • Buildings 20 years
  • Equipment, plant and machinery 10 years
  • Melting furnace 15 years
  • Tooling, molds 5 years
  • Office furniture 10 years
  • Office and computer equipment 4 years
  • Vehicles 5 years
  • Internal transport equipment 10 years

The residual value and the useful life of an asset are reviewed at least at the end of each financial year and if the expectations differ from previous estimates, adjustments are processed as an adjustment in estimate in accordance with IAS 8 Principles of financial reporting, changes in estimates and errors.

Lease agreements

Financial leases

Lease agreements are classified as financial leases if the group substantially bears all the risks and rewards associated with the agreement. Tangible fixed assets acquired by means of a financial lease are recognized in the balance sheet at:

  • The fair value of the leased asset; or if lower,
  • The discounted value of the minimum lease payments, as stipulated at the start of the lease agreement.

The corresponding liability to the lessor is presented in the balance sheet as a financial liability.

Lease payments are partly presented as financial expenses and partly as settlement of the outstanding liability, so that a constant interest charge in comparison with the outstanding capital is created over the full term.

The depreciation rules for assets acquired in form of a financial lease are consistent with those for assets acquired as property. If there is any uncertainty as to whether the company will own the asset at the end of the lease, then the asset must be written off in full over the lease period or over the useful life should this be shorter.

Operating leases

All lease agreements not classified as financial leases are operating leases. Payments made under an operating lease contract are expensed on a straight-line basis over the term of the agreement. Benefits received or which will be received upon termination or at the renewal of an operating lease will also be recognized on a straight-line basis as a reduction of the rental costs over the lease term.

The company does not act as lessor. On the other hand it permits long-term repayment of trade debts. These debts are financed by means of export financing and are guaranteed by Delcredere.

Impairment of tangible and intangible assets with the exception of goodwill

The assets of the Picanol Group, other than inventories, deferred tax assets, employee benefits and financial instruments, are reviewed for impairment whenever if there are indications that the carrying amount of an asset or a cash generating unit is possibly no longer recoverable. These indicators are at least yearly revised.

If the carrying amount of an asset or a cash generating unit exceeds its realizable value, an impairment loss will be recognized in the income statement.

The realizable value of an asset or of a cash generating unit is equal to the higher of the fair value minus the costs to sell and the value in use of the asset or a cash generating unit, whereby the fair value is equal to the amount that can be obtained from its sale in a transaction between knowledgeable, willing, and independent parties, and of which the value in use corresponds to the discounted value of the estimated future cash flows which would be expected to flow from the asset or a cash generating unit.

Impairment losses recognized in previous financial years are reversed in the income statement if there are any indications that a previously recognized impairment of an asset no longer exists or has decreased. Impairment losses on goodwill are not reversed.

Available-for-sale fixed assets

Fixed assets or groups of assets that are being disposed of are classified as available for sale if their carrying amount will primarily be realized in a sale transaction and not through its continued use. This only applies when the assets (or the group of assets being disposed of) are immediately available for sale in their present condition and if the sale is highly probable. A sale is only considered as highly probable if the appropriate management level has committed itself to a plan to sell the asset.

Fixed assets (or group of assets which are being disposed of) are valued at the lower of carrying amount or fair value minus the selling costs.

Borrowing costs

All borrowing costs are expensed in the period in which they are incurred.

Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value. The net realizable value is the estimated sale price within the normal course of business less the estimated costs for completion selling expenses.

The Picanol Group uses an inventory valuation method which approaches the FIFO method. This approach involves a method in which the stock is valued at regular intervals at the most recent purchase price. In view of the rapid stock rotation of raw materials on the one hand, and the strict application of write-downs of slow-rotating stock items on the other, this valuation method is a reasonable approximation of the FIFO method. Furthermore write-downs are being recognized depending on the age of the items. This method ensures that there is no over-valuation of stock.

The cost of the inventory includes all the purchase costs, conversion costs, and any other costs necessary to bring the inventory to its present location and condition.

Minority interests

Minority interests are a share in the profit or the loss and the net assets of a subsidiary which are attributable to the equity interests that are not held directly or via subsidiaries held by the parent company.

At the time of acquisition, the minority interest is initially recognized as the minority share of the fair value of the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities of the acquired party. This will later also include the minority share of the profits or losses.

Employee benefit obligations

The group has primarily defined contribution plans, as well as defined benefit plans in Picanol NV, Proferro NV, PsiControl Mechatronics NV and Verbrugge NV.

Defined contribution plans

The contribution obligations to the defined contribution plans are expensed by the group in the income statement as they incur. With regard to the minimal return because of the appropriate legislation in Belgium, the risk is in fact carried by external insurance companies.

Defined benefit plans

For defined benefit plans the pension liability of the financial year has to be calculated on the basis of the 'projected unit method'.

The amount recognized as a net liability of a defined benefit plan is the net total of the following amounts:

  • (a) the discounted value of the gross liability in respect of defined benefit plans at the balance sheet date;
  • (b) less the fair value at the balance sheet date of any investment funds, from which the liabilities must be directly settled;
  • (c) plus any actuarial gains (less any actuarial losses) that have not been recognized as a result of the application of the 'corridor' approach;
  • (d) less any unrecognized pension costs of past service.

The corridor approach entails that the actuarial gains and losses which, at the end of the previous reporting period, exceeded the larger of 10% of the discounted value of the gross liability in respect of the defined benefit rights on that date and 10% of the fair value of the fund investments on that date, are recognized in the income statement over the expected average remaining service life of the plan participants involved.

The discounted value of the gross liability in respect of defined benefit plans is calculated by discounting the gross liabilities at a discount rate which is based on the market yield of high quality company bonds at the balance sheet date.

A provision for current early retirements is recognized as a liability and as a charge if the entity has demonstrably committed itself to either:

  • (a) the termination of the employment of an employee or a group of employees prior to the normal pension date; or
  • (b) the making of redundancy payments as a result of an offer made to employees to encourage voluntary redundancy.

If redundancy payments are due only 12 months at least after the balance sheet date, they will be discounted. If an offer is made to encourage voluntary redundancy, the valuation of the redundancy payments will be based on the number of employees who are expected to accept the offer.

In the income statement, pension costs for the year in respect of past service are included in 'cost of sales' and 'general and administrative expenses', while the interest cost is recognized under 'total interest expenses'. The Picanol Group does not have any constructive liability for future early retirement, with as result that no provision is made for such obligation.

Provisions

Provisions are recognized at the balance sheet date if the group has a present obligation (legal or constructive) due to a past event, if it is probable that this liability will require a future outflow of resources embodying economic benefits in order to settle the obligation and if a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.

Provisions are recognized at the best estimate of the expenditure required to settle the existing obligation at the balance sheet date.

Provision for warranty costs

A provision for warranty costs will be made for products under warranty on the basis of historical data with regard to repairs and returned goods. The provision for warranty costs will be made on the basis of historical data on repairs and returned goods and on the basis of sold weaving machines. A provision is being made for performance warranties based on the individual analysis.

Provision for restructuring

A provision for restructuring will only be made if the group has drawn up a detailed and formal restructuring program and if the expectation is being created with the relevant parties that the group will be implementing the restructuring program, either by the group already having started its implementation, or by having informed the relevant parties of its main features prior to the balance sheet date.

Financial instruments

Investments in equity instruments that do not have a quoted market price in an active market and whose fair value cannot be reliably measured.

After the initial valuation, these are valued at cost less any incidental impairment losses.

Available-for-sale financial assets

The company applies write-downs to accounts receivable if there is any sign of them not being collectable, either wholly or partly. The company considers each claim on a case-by-case basis, using specific information about the claim concerned as well as general historic information. It also takes into account its own share of risk for the claim concerned when setting the depreciation.

Available-for-sale financial assets are initially recognized at fair value plus any transaction costs directly attributable to their acquisition. Following their initial recognition, these assets are valued at fair value without any deduction of incidental transaction costs incurred by the sale or any other form of disposal. Any profit or loss generated by these assets is immediately recognized in shareholders' equity with the exception of impairment losses and foreign currency gains or losses until the financial asset is derecognized, and with any cumulative gain or loss previously recognized through shareholders' equity transferred to profit or loss.

Financial liabilities and equity instruments

Financial liabilities and equity instruments issued by the group are classified in accordance with the economic reality of the contractual agreement and with the definitions of a financial liability and shareholders' equity instruments.

Equity instruments

Equity instruments issued by the company are recognized in accordance with the amounts received, minus any direct issue costs.

Interest-bearing loans

Interest-bearing bank loans and fixed advances are recognized on the basis of the amounts received, less any direct issue costs. Financial charges, including premiums payable upon settlement or redemption and direct issue costs, are recognized proportionally through the income statement in accordance with the effective interest method and are added to the recognized amount of the instrument to the degree that they are not settled in the relevant period.

Derivatives

The Picanol Group does not apply hedge accounting to derivatives. These are recognized in the income statement at fair value.

Should hedge accounting be applied in the future, the following rules would be applied:

Cash flow hedges protect against the effect of foreign currency fluctuations on the fair value of recognized assets and liabilities. The profit and loss from both the revaluation of the hedging instrument (e.g. forward contracts) and the revaluation of the hedged assets and liabilities are immediately recognized through the income statement.

Cash flow hedges protect against any variation in cash flow which (i) is attributable to a particular risk associated with a recognized asset or liability or a highly probable expected future transaction and (ii) which could have an impact on the profit or loss. The share of profit or loss on the hedge instrument which has been established as an effective hedge is recognized directly in shareholders' equity and the non-effective share of the profit or loss on the hedge instrument will be recognized through the income statement.

If the hedge of an expected future transaction leads to the recognition of a non-financial asset or a non-financial liability, or if an expected future transaction concerning a non-financial asset or non-financial liability becomes a firm undertaking for which administrative processing of fair value hedge transactions is applied, then the entity will take the following action:

  • The entity transfers the associated profits or losses recognized in the shareholders' equity to the income statement in the same period or periods in which the acquired asset or the liability entered into has an impact on the profit and loss. However, if an entity expects that (part of) the loss which is directly recognized in the shareholders' equity will no longer be realizable in one or several future periods, then the entity must transfer the expected non-realizable amount to profit and loss.
  • The entity transfers the associated profits and losses which are recognized in the shareholders' equity in order to recognize these in initial cost or another book value of the asset or liability.

Financial instruments are not used at all for speculative purposes. The Picanol Group does not hold other derivatives in any form.

III.1.4. REVENUE

General

Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable.

Sale of goods

Revenue from the sale of goods is recognized when all the following criteria are met:

  • (a) the company has transferred all the substantial risks and rewards associated with ownership of the goods to the buyer;
  • (b) the company retains neither continuing managerial involvement to the degree usually associated with ownership nor effective control over the goods sold;
  • (c) the amount of revenue can be measured reliably;
  • (d) it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the transaction will flow to the company; and
  • (e) the costs already incurred or still to be incurred relating to the transaction can be measured reliably.

In many cases the group sells its weaving machines including installation costs. The cost component for these services can be reliably estimated, and is limited in relation to the sales price of the machine (1 to 2% of sales price). The installation component is not viewed as an essential part of the sales transaction, so that revenue is recognized on the basis of delivery of the weaving machines. At the time of revenue recognition, the installation costs are charged against the income statement through accrued charges on the liabilities side of the balance sheet.

Delivery of services

If the result of a transaction involving the rendering of services can be measured reliably, the revenue associated with those services has to be recognized in direct proportion to the services rendered at the balance sheet date. The services provided are mainly for the installation of weaving machines. The costs of the service and the turnover generated by it are recognized at the time when the service is provided. The turnover from services associated with installation of weaving machines is recognized when the machines are delivered. This turnover is insignificant compared with the company's total turnover. In the case of services unconnected with installing weaving machines, the turnover is recognized at the time when the service is provided. These are short projects lasting a few days, and are insignificant compared with the company's total turnover. Services which have been invoiced but not yet provided, or provided but not yet invoiced, are recorded as trade receivables.

Interest income from loans and export finance

Interest is recognized in accordance with the effective interest method (IAS39).

Dividend income

Dividend income is recognized when the shareholders' right to receive payment is established.

Income taxes

The tax expense of the period represents the sum of the current tax expense and deferred tax expense. The current tax expense is based on the taxable profit of the financial year. Taxable profit differs from the net profit as stated in the income statement because it excludes income or expenditure that is taxable or deductible in other years, and it further excludes components which will never be taxable or deductible. The Picanol Group's liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.

Deferred taxes are taxes payable or recoverable on the differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and the corresponding tax bases used in the calculation of taxable profit, and these are recognized on the basis of the balance sheet liability method.

Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognized for all taxable temporary differences and deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against which deductible temporary differences can be utilized. Such assets and liabilities are not recognized when the temporary differences originate from goodwill (or negative goodwill) or from the initial recognition of an asset or of a liability in a transaction that is not a business combination and which, at the time of the transaction, affects neither the accounting profit not the taxable profit or loss (taxable loss).

Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries, interests in joint ventures and associated companies, except when the Picanol Group is able to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference and when it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

The carrying amount of the deferred tax assets is reviewed at each balance sheet and reduced to the extent that is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow all or part of the tax assets to be recovered.

The carrying amount of the deferred tax assets is reviewed at each balance sheet and reduced to the extent that is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow all or part of the tax assets to be recovered.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized if they relate to income tax levied by the same tax authority and if the group has the intention to settle its current tax assets and liabilities on a net basis.

III.2. KEY ASSESSMENT CRITERIA AND ESTIMATES IN THE APPLICATION OF VALUATION RULES

In some cases, the application of valuation rules requires an accounting assessment. In the course of the current fiscal year, the group has not had to make any accounting assessments.

Under IFRS, for preparation of the group's consolidated financial statements, the group must use estimates and suppositions that may affect the amounts of the assets and liabilities, the amounts of the contingent assets and liabilities, and the amounts of costs and revenues. The actual results may deviate from these estimates. Estimates are particularly important for, but not restricted to the determination of the obligations regarding stipulated pension schemes, impairments, provisions and deferred taxes.

The realizable value of Picanol's global business is based upon a business value approach. The projections used in the model for discussing this business value are based on a 5-year period. In this context management revised its business plan to arrive at the best possible estimate for the following years. The plan for 2012 expects a revenue decline for the Weaving Machines division and further growth in the Industries division in terms of external sales. The assumptions contained in the business plan were used in assessing the risks for the purpose of asset valuation. The main assets, of which the valuation is impacted by the assumptions of the business plan are deferred tax assets, intangible assets (more particularly capitalized development costs), tangible fixed assets and goodwill.

III.3. CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES APPLIED

There were no changes in accounting principles applied in the financial year 2011 in comparison with the financial year 2010.

III.4. CHANGES IN SCOPE OF CONSOLIDATION

In 2011 the liquidation of Te Strake Textile was completed and GTP Greenville was sold.

III.5. SEGMENT INFORMATION

III.5.1. BUSINESS SEGMENTS

The two divisions - Weaving Machines and Industries – make up the primary segmentation of the group. More information on these divisions can be found in the first part of this report. Sales between segments are carried out at arm's length.

The supporting Corporate, Finance, IT and HR activities are allocated to the business segments on the basis of various factors (activity, contribution to turnover %, etc.), in accordance with the management reporting.

Segmented information on these pillars can be found hereafter.

For the year ending on 31 December 2011

2011
PICANOL GROUP (in '000 euros) Weaving
Machines
Industries Eliminations Consolidated
External sales 403,420 63,532 466,953
Inter-segment sales 904 57,158 -58,062 0
TOTAL SALES 404,324 120,691 -58,062 466,953
OPERATING PROFIT 68,523 7,546 76,069
Financial result 659
PROFIT OR LOSS BEFORE TAXES 76,728
Income taxes -15,716
PROFIT OR LOSS AFTER TAXES 61,013
Share of minority interests 0
SHARE OF THE GROUP 61,013

For the year ending on 31 December 2010

PICANOL GROUP (in '000 euros) Weaving
Machines
Industries Eliminations Consolidated
External sales 340,734 55,040 395,774
Inter-segment sales 2,282 52,344 -54,626 0
TOTAL SALES 343,016 107,384 -54,626 395,774
OPERATING PROFIT 46,670 70 46,730
Financial result 161
PROFIT OR LOSS BEFORE TAXES 46,891
Income taxes -11,648
PROFIT OR LOSS AFTER TAXES 35,244
Share of minority interests 0
SHARE OF THE GROUP 35,244

The increase of the total group operating profit is a result of a strong profit growth realized in the Weaving Machine division (+ 21.9 million euros) and the Industries division (+ 7.5 million euros). This positive profit development is the result of a strong turnover growth. In addition, the operating profit of the Weaving Machines division included in 2011 other operating income linked to the sale of GTP Greenville, for an amount of 9.5 million euros.

The Weaving Machines segment realized a 18% turnover increase, despite the loss of sales of the Steel Heddle activities from 1 September 2011, which results into a strong profit increase. The profit ratio (excluding revenue from the sale of GTP Greenville) rose slightly from 14% in 2010 to 15% in 2011

The Industries segment realized a further growth of the external turnover (+ 15% vs. 2010). Thanks to increased productivity and as costs did not rise in proportion with the turnover increase, the profit ratio rose from 0% in 2010 to +6% in 2011. The result of Industries does not include tangible non-recurrent costs or profits.

OTHER INFORMATION

For the year ending on 31 December 2011

PICANOL GROUP (in '000 euros) Weaving
Machines
Industries Consolidated
Depreciation and amortization 5,988 2,963 8,951
Impairment losses recognized in profit or
loss 438 438
Acquisitions 3,536 3,889 7,426

For the year ending on 31 December 2010

PICANOL GROUP (in '000 euros) Weaving
Machines
Industries Consolidated
Depreciation and amortization 5,020 4,156 9,176
Impairment losses recognized in profit or
loss 260 260
Acquisitions 3,590 1,187 4,777

BALANCE SHEET

PICANOL GROUP
(in
'000 euros)
Weaving
Machines
Industries Non
segment
Eliminations Consolidated
2011
Total consolidated assets 129,981 63,824 109,314 -14,857 288,263
Total consolidated liabilities 78,294 31,231 193,594 -14,857 288,263
2010
Total consolidated assets 147,972 62,930 34,956 -25,186 220,671
Total consolidated liabilities 76,777 30,326 138,740 -25,173 220,671

III.5.2. GEOGRAPHICAL SEGMENTS

The group's activities can mainly be divided between Europe, America & Africa on the one hand, and Far & Middle East on the other.

The table below shows the sales and fixed assets of the Picanol Group by geographical market.

SALES

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000
euros)
31/12/2011 31/12/2010
Europe, America and Africa
Far & Middle East
170,370
296,582
125,916
269,858
TOTAL 466,953 395,774

INTANGIBLE ASSETS – TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

PICANOL GROUP (in '000
euros)
Net carrying value Acquisitions
2011 2010 2011 2010
Europe, America and Africa
Far & Middle East
48,520
9,270
52,448
8,669
6,307
1,119
3,760
1,018
TOTAL 57,790 61,117 7,426 4,777

The company does not have customers that realize more than 10% of the turnover.

III.6. INCOME STATEMENT

III.6.1. OTHER OPERATING INCOME

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
2011 2010
Net
capital gain on sale GTP Greenville
Reversal provision restructuring
costs
Other
9,466
256
426
184
TOTAL 9,721 609

III.6.2. OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
2011 2010
Extraordinary write-downs 438
Provision for onerous contracts 264 324
Loss on the disposal of assets 850
Reorganization costs 108
Other 214 192
TOTAL 916 1,474

The extraordinary write-downs in 2011 include impairment losses on fixed assets in Picanol of America and Verbrugge NV.

The extraordinary write-downs in 2010 include provisions for leases of unused company spaces in Ypres and Romania and an exceptional valuation allowance of a production machine.

III.6.3. OPERATING RESULT

PICANOL GROUP (in '000 euros) 2011 2010
Sales 466,953 395,774
Purchases of goods and changes in inventories -243,620 -199,160
Amortization, depreciation and impairment -9,389 -9,436
Amounts written off on inventories & receivables 385 -2,020
Other goods and services -59,356 -52,345
Personnel costs -87,436 -82,530
Provisions -274 -2,689
Other operating income 9,721 609
Other operating expenses -916 -1,474
TOTAL OPERATING RESULT 76,069 46,730

Sales increased by 18% compared with 2010. The ratio of purchases of goods and changes in inventory to sales increased to 52% (versus 50% in 2010)

Personnel costs and to a lesser extent the other goods and services that form part of the costs of sales, rose as a result of the strongly increased volume. More specifically, there was a strong increase in maintenance costs due to a number of large maintenance works. The marketing costs also increased substantially, mainly due to the ITMA exhibition.

The provisions remained relatively stable, since the decrease in pension provisions (-0.9 million euros) was offset by an increase in guarantee fees, partially due to the increased turnover (+ 1.2 million euros).

The strong increase in other operating income was related to the sale of GTP Greenville

III.6.4. FINANCIAL RESULT

PICANOL GROUP (in '000 euros) 2011 2010
Interest on export finance -168 -201
Interest on other loans -23 -208
Interest on financial leases -559 -708
Total interest expenses -750 -1,116
Interest income from bank deposits 396 138
Interest income from financial receivables 742 939
Total interest income from financial receivables &
cash and cash
Equivalents 1,138 1,077
Interest income / (-expenses) 388 -39
Exchange rate differences 892 1,178
Profit on revaluation of derivatives 0 0
Other financial income 892 1,178
Exchange rate differences -566 -943
Loss on revaluation of derivatives -55 -35
Dividend taxes 0
Other financial expenses -621 -978
Other financial
result
271 200
FINANCIAL RESULT 659 161

III.6.5. INCOME TAXES

INCOME TAX EXPENSE Recognized in the income statement

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
2011 2010
Current tax:
TOTAL -11,073 -3,543
Deferred tax:
(Under)/ over provision in previous year 0 0
Recognition and reversal of temporary differences -2,201 -3,257
Utilization of previous year's losses 5,403
Impairments on deferred taxes on losses of current
Impairments on deferred taxes on losses of current
-38
and previous reporting periods -7,854 -5,057
Inclusion deferred tax assets 10 247
TOTAL -4,642 -8,105
TOTAL INCOME TAXES -15,716 -11,649

Effective tax rate reconciliation

PICANOL GROUP (in '000 euros) 2011 % 2010 %
Profit before tax and before income from associates 76,728 46,891
Tax at the domestic tax rate of 33.99% -26,080 33.99% -15,938 33.99%
Tax effects of non-deductible expenses
Non-tax-deductible expenses -727 -0.95% -783 1.67%
Other -1,579 -2.06% -98 0.21%
Tax effects of tax-exempt revenues 0.00%
Non-taxable financial and other income 2,078 2.71% 248 -0.53%
Notional interest deduction 330 0.43% 135 -0.29%
Capital gain divestments 3,516 4.58% 0 0.00%
Deferred tax effect resulting from a change in tax rates 0 0.00% 0 0.00%
Tax effects of corrections to deferred and current tax of
previous periods
0.00% -72 0.15%
Effects of different tax rates of group entities in other
jurisdictions
2,196 2.86% 4,591 -9.79%
Tax effect of utilization of tax losses not previously
recognized
4,551 5.93% 308 -0.66%
Valuation allowance on deferred tax assets 0.00% -38 0.08%
Tax expense and effective tax rate for the period -15,716 20.48% -11,648 24.84%

Deferred tax income/ (expenses) recognized directly in shareholders' equity

In 2011 no deferred tax credits were directly included in the equity.

DEFERRED TAX Recognized deferred tax

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
31/12/2011 31/12/2010
DEFERRED
TAX ASSETS
DEFERRED
TAX
LIABILITIES
DEFERRED
TAX ASSETS
DEFERRED
TAX
LIABILITIES
Intangible assets 0 -1,377 0 -1,521
Tangible fixed assets 0 -5,557 0 -5,899
Inventories 997 0 328 0
Other assets 59 -296 12 -54
Employee benefit obligations 23 0 66 0
Other provisions 5 -467 983 0
Other liabilities 8 -1,103 0 -1,367
Tax loss carryforwards/ tax credits 4,299 0 12,236 0
Notional interest deduction carryforwards 0 0 673 0
Other adjustments 0 -1,602 0 -1,101
TOTAL 5,391 -10,403 14,298 -9,942
Valuation allowance -4,422 0
Offset (*) -1,785 1,785 -7,733 7,733
TOTAL (as reported in the balance sheet) 3,606 -8,618 2,143 -2,209

(*) IAS 12 (Income Tax) requires that deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities should, under certain conditions, be offset against each other..

The change in deferred tax between 31/12/2011 and the end of 2010 is primarily due to:

  • The decrease in deferred tax assets as a result of the decrease in the tax loss carried forward of mainly Picanol NV.
  • The increase in deferred tax assets is due to the inclusion of the previously unrecognized deferred tax assets of Proferro NV and PsiControl NV.

Deferred tax assets that cannot be recovered over a period of 5 years are not recognized or are subject to a valuation adjustment. The expected tax results are based on the business plan as explained under III.2

NOT-RECOGNIZED TAX LOSS CARRYFORWARDS, CLASSIFIED BY EXPIRY DATE

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
2011 2010
Within 1 year 0 0
Within 2 years 0 0
Within 3 years 0 0
Within 4 years 0 0
Within 5 years or more 271 2,129
Without time limit 3,084 18,996

DEFERRED TAX ASSETS ON WHICH VALUATION ALLOWANCES WERE TAKEN AT 31 DECEMBER 2011:

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
GROSS
AMOUNT
TOTAL
DEFERRED
TAX ASSETS
RECOGNIZED
DEFERRED
TAX
ASSETS
NON
RECOGNIZED
DEFERRED TAX
ASSETS
Tax loss carryforward 3,354 1,140 0 1,140
Inventories 0 0 0
Other temporary differences 0 0 0
TOTAL 3,354 1,140 0 1,140

DEFERRED TAX LIABILITIES NOT RECOGNIZED BY THE GROUP AND RELATING TO THE FOLLOWING ELEMENTS AT 31 DECEMBER 2011:

With the exception of the already planned dividend payments in 2012 no liabilities or assets were recognized for temporary differences relating to non-calculated or distributed earnings of subsidiaries and joint ventures controlled by the group as the group determines itself the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences. Furthermore no reversal will be executed in the near future. Undistributed reserves of subsidiaries and the related unrecognized deferred tax liability amount to 21.1 million euros and 1.5 million euros respectively at 31 December 2011.

III.6.6. DIVIDENDS

In 2011, no dividend was paid for the annual period 2010. The Board of Directors will propose to the Annual General Meeting of 18 April 2012 not to pay a dividend

III.6.7. BASIC EARNINGS PER SHARE

From continuing and discontinued operations

The calculation of the basic and diluted earnings per share is based on the following data:

PICANOL GROUP 2011 2010
(in '000 euros)
Net profit or loss over the period 61,013 35,244
Net profit or loss from continuing operations 61,013 35,244
2011 2010
(number of shares)
Ordinary shares per 01/01 17,700,000 17,700,000
Ordinary shares per 31/12 17,700,000 17,700,000
Weighted average number of outstanding ordinary
shares 17,700,000 17,700,000
2011 2010
(in euros)
Basic earnings per share 3.45 1.99
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations 3.45 1.99

III.6.8. DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE

The diluted earnings per share of the Picanol Group are equivalent to the basic earnings per share, for both 2011 and 2010.

PICANOL GROUP 2011 2010
(in '000 euros)
Net profit or loss over the period 61,013 35,244
Profit or loss attributable to the ordinary shareholders of
the company 61,013 35,244
Weighted average number of outstanding ordinary
shares 17,700,000 17,700,000
Weighted average number of shares for the diluted
earnings per share 17,700,000 17,700,000
2011 2010
(in euros)
Diluted earnings per share 3.45 1.99
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations 3.45 1.99

III.7. BALANCE SHEET

III.7.1. INTANGIBLE ASSETS

For the year ending on 31 December 2011:

Development
expenses
Concessions,
Patents
and Licenses
Goodwill Other
Intangible
assets
Assets
under Con
struction and
Advance
Total
PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
Payments
At the end of the previous reporting period
Gross book value 9,273 17,884 122 0 0 27,278
Accumulated depreciation -4,798 -15,859 -122 0 0 -20,779
Accumulated impairment losses -64 -533 0 0 0 -597
Net book value 4,411 1,491 0 0 0 5,902
Movements during the reporting period
Acquisitions 340 212 0 0 0 552
Investments resulting from business combinations 0 0
Expensed depreciation -732 -451 0 0 0 -1,183
Impairment losses 0 0 0 0 0 0
Disposals and retirements 0 0 0 0 0 0
Transfers 0 -3 0 0 0 -3
Exchange rate differences 0 38 0 38
At the end of the reporting period -392 -205 0 0 0 -596
Gross book value 9,613 12,421 0 0 0 22,034
Accumulated depreciation -5,530 -10,601 0 0 0 -16,131
Accumulated impairment losses -64 -533 0 0 0 -597
Net book value 4,019 1,287 0 0 0 5,306

Acquisitions of intangible assets in the Picanol Group in 2011 consist mainly of the further capitalization of development expenses at Picanol NV.

The 2011 acquisitions contain 0.3 million euros of own production. This own production comprises the fully capitalized development costs within Picanol NV regarding a new control system: VGS. This project concerns development of a new control box for airjet and rapier weaving machines, which was completed and put on the market in 2011. The related costs for development of this platform were capitalized since 2008 and are since October 2011 being depreciated.

The amount for research & development and engineering posted as costs in the Income statement was 10.2 million euros in 2011.

Capitalized development costs are subject to an impairment test according to the assumptions included in the business plan (see III.2)

The total net book value of 5.3 million euros of the intangible assets at 31 December 2011 consists primarily of the following components:

  • Capitalized development expenses of Picanol NV with a net book value of 4.0 million euros. These development costs are being depreciated over 5 years.
  • Capitalized software at Picanol NV, including a capitalized ERP package, with a total net book value of 0.6 million euros at 31 December 2011. This ERP package was capitalized mainly in 2005 and 2006 and is being depreciated over five years.

The depreciation of the intangible assets is recognized under the depreciation heading, partly as a component of the cost of sales and partly under general and administrative costs, whereas the impairment losses are recognized in other operating income/expenses.

At the end of 2011 there are no contractual commitments for the purchase of intangible assets.

For the year ending on 31 December 2010:

Development
expenses
Concessions,
Patents
and Licenses
Goodwill Other
Intangible
Assets
Assets
Under Con
Total
PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
At the end of the previous reporting period
Gross book value 8,288 17,772 113 0 0 26,173
Accumulated depreciation -4,265 -15,279 -91 0 0 -19,635
Accumulated impairment losses -64 -533 0 0 0 -597
Net book value 3,958 1,960 22 0 0 5,941
Movements during the reporting period
Acquisitions 985 70 0 0 0 1,055
Investment due to business combination 0 0
Expensed depreciation -533 -595 -24 0 0 -1,151
Impairment losses 0 0 0 0 0 0
Disposals and retirements 0 0 0 0 0 0
Transfers 0 0 0 0 0 0
Exchange rate differences 0 56 2 58
At the end of the reporting period 452 -469 -22 0 0 -38
Gross book value 9,273 17,884 122 0 0 27,278
Accumulated depreciation -4,798 -15,859 -122 0 0 -20,779
Accumulated impairment losses -64 -533 0 0 0 -597
Net book value 4,411 1,491 0 0 0 5,902

III.7.2. GOODWILL

PICANOL GROUP (in '000 euros) 2011 2010
At the end of the previous reporting
period
Net book value 0 0
Movements during the reporting period
Acquisitions and entering the consolidation
scope 0 0
Impairment losses 0 0
Disposals and
leaving the consolidation
scope 0 0
Mergers and asset deals 0 0
Exchange rate differences 0 0
At the end of the reporting period 0 0
Net book value 0 0

There were no changes in the net book value in 2011.

III.7.3. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

For the year ending on 31 December 2011:

Assets
Land Plant, Furniture Other under Total
34,599 176,728 10,925 1,998 100 224,349
-13,565 -144,968 -9,576 -1,025 0 -169,134
0 0 0 0 0 0
21,033 31,760 1,348 973 100 55,215
0 0 0 0 0 0
128 3,121 818 70 2,737 6,874
0
-1,510 -5,473 -634 -151 0 -7,768
0 0 0 -438 0 -438
-266 -1,458 -42 -5 -44 -1,815
0 -37 18 0 19 0
376 89 25 -22 -50 419
-1,272 -3,758 184 -545 2,662 -2,729
34,345 171,891 10,801 1,580 2,762 221,380
-14,584 -143,891 -9,268 -1,153 0 -168,896
0 0 0 0 0 0
19,761 28,001 1,532 428 2,762 52,484
And
Buildings
Equipment
and
Machinery
And
Vehicles
Tangible
Fixed
Assets
Construction
and
Advance
Payments

The total acquisitions of tangible fixed assets amount to 6.9 million euros compared with 3.7 million euros in the previous period.

The 2011 acquisitions in installations, machinery and equipment mainly concerned investments in the automated warehouse of Picanol (0.9 million euros), and production machinery at Proferro NV (1.2 million euros) and Melotte NV (0.5 million euros).

The acquisitions of assets under construction and advanced payments include the investment in a new SMD line for PsiControl Mechatronics in Ypres and Romania, the construction of a new office building for Picanol India, and an additional investment in production machinery for Proferro.

An impairment loss was recognized in capitalized improvement works in the leased premises of Picanol of America, which in time will be abandoned, and in buildings in Verbrugge that are no longer being used.

The transfers and disposal of assets include the fixed assets sold in connection with the sale of GTP Greenville for an amount of 1.4 million euros.

Tangible fixed assets included at 31 December 2011 own produced assets for an amount of 0.4 million euros. This regards own produced molds.

For the year ending on 31 December 2010:

Land and Plant Furniture Other Assets Total
Buildings Equipment and Tangible Under
And Vehicles Fixed Construction
PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
Machinery Asses and
Advance
At the end of the previous reporting period Payments
Gross value 33,686 174,972 10,710 1,722 188 221,278
Accumulated depreciations -12,003 -140,362 -9,120 -725 0 -162,209
Accumulated impairment losses 0 0 0 0 0 0
Net book value 21,683 34,610 1,590 997 188 59,069
Movements during the reporting period
Changes in the consolidation scope 0 0 0 0 0 0
Acquisitions 0 2,493 550 71 607 3,722
Investments resulting from business combinations 0
Expensed depreciations -1,473 -5,633 -691 -227 0 -8,025
Impairment losses 0 0 0 0 0 0
Disposals and retirements -23 -334 -200 -24 -4 -584
Transfers 332 279 2 84 -697 0
Exchange rate differences 514 345 96 71 6 1,034
-650 -2,850 -242 -24 -88 -3,853
At the end of the reporting period
Gross value 34,599 176,728 10,925 1,998 100 224,349
Accumulated depreciations -13,565 -144,968 -9,576 -1,025 0 -169,134
Accumulated impairment losses 0 0 0 0 0 0
Net book value 21,033 31,760 1,348 973 100 55,215

III.7.4. ASSETS UNDER FINANCIAL LEASE

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
31/12/2011 31/12/2010
Land and buildings -
Gross value
0 0
Land and buildings –
Accumulated depreciation
0 0
Land and buildings –
Net book value
0 0
Plant, equipment and machinery -
Gross value
Plant, equipment and machinery -
Accumulated
13,843 15,972
depreciation -3,283 -3,137
Plant, equipment and machinery -
Net
book value
10,559 12,835
Furniture and vehicles -
Gross value
0 0
Furniture and vehicles -
Accumulated depreciation
0 0
Furniture and vehicles -
Net book value
0 0
Intangible assets -
Gross value
0 0
Intangible assets -
Accumulated depreciation
0 0
Intangible
assets -
Total
0 0
Total assets under financial lease 10,559 12,835

The assets under financial leasing reported in 'plant, equipment and machinery' include primarily a molding line and a machining center at Proferro NV.

During the financial year 2011, no new financial lease contracts were concluded.

III.7.5. SUBSIDIARIES, JOINT VENTURES AND ASSOCIATED COMPANIES

Shareholding %
2011 2010
1. FULLY CONSOLIDATED ENTITIES
Belgium
Proferro NV Steverlyncklaan 15, 8900 Ypres 100.00% 100.00%
PsiControl Mechatronics NV Steverlyncklaan 15, 8900 Ypres 100.00% 100.00%
Verbrugge NV Steverlyncklaan 15, 8900 Ypres 100.00% 100.00%
Melotte NV Industrieweg 2019 , 3520 Zonhoven 100.00% 100.00%
France
Burcklé ET CIE SAS Rue de Bourbach-le-haut 9 , 68290 Bourbach-Le-Bas 100.00% 100.00%
Germany
Günne Webmaschinenfabrik GmbH & CO, KG Möhnestrasse 2 , 59519 Möhnesee-Günne 100.00% 100.00%
Günne Webmaschinenfabrik GmbH Möhnestrasse 2 , 59519 Möhnesee-Günne 100.00% 100.00%
Turkey
Picanol Tekstil Makinalari Merkez Mah., Yildirim Beyazid Cad. 179/2 100.00% 100.00%
34197 Yenibosna – Istanbul
Romania
PsiControl Mechatronics Srl Campului Street 1, 505400 Rasnov, Brasov County 100.00% 100.00%
People's Republic of China
Picanol (Suzhou Ind. Park) Textile Machinery Co. Ltd. Fengting Road/ Songzhuan Road, SIP, Suzhou 100.00% 100.00%
Picanol (Suzhou) Trading Co. Ltd. Fengting Avenue/ Songzhuan Road, SIP, Suzhou 100.00% 100.00%
Indonesia
PT GTP Bandung Jl. Moh. Toha KM 5.3 , 56 40261 Bandung 100.00% 100.00%
Netherlands
Te Strake Textile BV Dr. H. Van Doorneweg 26, 5753 PM Deurne 0.00% 100.00%
United States
GTP Greenville 1801 Rutherford Road, Greenville S.C. 29609 0.00% 100.00%
Picanol of America 1801 Rutherford Road, Greenville S.C. 29609 100.00% 0.00%
México
GTP Mexico SA DE CV Avena 475 Col. Granjas, Iztacalco, 08400, México
D.F.
100.00% 100.00%
Brazil
Rua Treze de Maio,164, CEP13471-030
GTP São Paulo Americana/SP 100.00% 100.00%
India
Block B-1, Janak Puri, Community Centre, New Delhi
Picanol India Private Limited 110058 100.00% 100.00%
2. NON-CONSOLIDATED ENTITIES
Belgium
Symatex CVBA A. Reyerslaan 80 , 1030 Brussels 34.00% 34.00%
Bedrijvencentrum Westhoek Albert Dehemlaan 31, 8900 Ypres 12.82% 12.82%

III.7.6. OTHER FINANCIAL INVESTMENTS

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
2011 2010
Fair value at the end of the previous reporting period 79 79
Movements during the reporting period
Changes in the consolidation scope 0 0
Acquisitions 0 0
Disposals
and retirements
0 0
Reductions in fair value 0 0
Exchange rate differences 0 0
Fair value at the end of the reporting period 79 79

This heading contains all the non-consolidated investments, which are also non-listed entities. The fair value equals the historical cost corrected with impairment losses.

III.7.7. NON-CURRENT RECEIVABLES

Non-current receivables are broken down below into interest-bearing trade receivables, guarantees and other interest-bearing receivables:

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
31/12/2011 31/12/2010
Interest- Interest
bearing bearing
trade trade
receivables Guarantees receivables Guarantees
At the end of the previous
reporting period
Gross value 3,558 135 3,127 154
Accumulated amounts written off
Net book value 3,558 135 3,127 154
Movement during the reporting
period
Changes in the consolidation scope
Acquisitions 50 45 2,850
Discount effect
Reimbursement -19
Write-off
Write-back
Transfers -2,877 -2,419
Exchange rate differences
Other
At the end of the reporting period
Gross value 731 180 3,558 135
Accumulated amounts written off 0 0 0 0
Net book value 731 180 3,558 135

The interest-bearing trade receivables consist entirely of the export financings recognized by Picanol NV.

Interest-bearing receivables at the end of the reporting period consist of 0.3 million euros, an amount in Yen of 0.4 million denominated in euros. These outstanding Yen amounts are covered with commitments to the bank in the same currency.

The non-current interest-bearing trade receivables are insured for a total of 0.6 million, resulting in a total outstanding risk from 0.1 million euros at 31 December 2011 or 20% of the total outstanding amount of interest-bearing trade receivables.

The interest-bearing trade receivables at 31 December 2010 include a total amount of 2.91 million euros, an amount in Yen of 0.52 million denominated in euros and an amount in USD of 0.13 million denominated in euros. The non-current interest-bearing trade receivables at 31 December 2010 were insured for a total of 3.1 million, resulting in a total outstanding risk from 0.5 million at 31 December 2010 or 13% of the total interest-bearing trade receivables.

None of the non-current interest-bearing trade receivables have passed their due dates..

III.7.8. INVENTORIES

PICANOL GROUP (in '000 euros) 31-12-
2011
31-12-2010
Raw materials and auxiliaries Gross value 48,584 50,612
Raw materials and auxiliaries
Raw materials and
Amounts written off -22,644 -22,527
auxiliaries 25,940 28,085
Goods in progress Gross value 6,861 10,111
Goods in progress Amounts written off -73 -273
Goods in progress 6,788 9,838
Finished goods Gross value 14,189 13,573
Finished goods Amounts written off -3,156 -3,824
Finished goods 11,033 9,750
Trade goods Gross value 0 0
Trade goods Amounts written off 0 0
Trade goods 0 0
Downpayments Gross value 235 68
Downpayments Amounts written off 0 0
Downpayments 235 68
Contracts in progress Gross value 0 0
Contracts in progress Amounts written off 0 0
Contracts in progress 0 0
Total inventories 43,996 47,742

Despite a strong revenue growth, we saw a decrease in consolidated stocks of 3.7 million euros. However, this is attributable to the sale of the stock of the Steel Heddle activities of GTP Greenville, which was included in the inventory as at 31 December 2010 for an amount of 3.8 million euros. On a comparable basis, the stock remained relatively stable.

Similarly on a comparable basis, we saw a decrease in raw materials and supplies (-1.1 million euros) and goods in progress (-0.8 million euros). The decrease was mainly visible in Picanol, where the production rate slowed in the last months of 2011. At PST, stock also decreased significantly due to a targeted reduction of working capital.

The increase in finished goods is mainly related to an increase in the weaving machines ready for dispatch at PST and Picanol. Customer contracts have been signed for these weaving machines and these will be delivered early 2012.

The total increase of the depreciated stocks included in the profit and loss account for 2011, after adjustment for the sale of the Steel Heddle activity of GTP Greenville, is 0.6 million euros.

At 31 December 2011, no inventory was pledged for any obligations. Other than in the usual course of business, the Picanol Group has no contractual commitments with regard to inventory at the end of 2011.

III.7.9. TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES

Trade and other receivables can be broken down into the following categories:

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
2011 2010
Trade receivables 46,703 56,473
Other receivables
Recoverable VAT 3,031 3,265
Prepaid taxes 3,672 423
Deferred expenses and accrued income* 808 449
Miscellaneous receivables 17,043 17,525

The decrease in trade receivables is mainly due to lower volume in the last months of 2011 compared to end 2010.

The categories of trade receivables and marked-to-market derivatives are considered as financial instruments, the other headings not.

Trade receivables at the balance sheet date consist of the amounts receivable from the sale of goods and the supply of services to the value of 52.9 million euros (2010: 56.5 million euros). An allowance has been created for irrecoverable amounts from the sale of goods to the value of 6.1 million euros (2010: 5.8 million euros). This allowance has been determined based on historical data concerning non-payments, applying group valuation rules and individual assessment. Movements in the provision for doubtful debtors are included in the income statement under 'selling and marketing expenses'.

Movements in the provision for doubtful debtors during the reporting period can be summarized as follows:

PICANOL GROUP (in '000 euros) 2011 2010
At the end of the previous reporting
period
5,782 6,719
Write-downs recorded 1,358 464
Utilizations or reversals of write-downs
Translation differences
-971
-22
-1,435
33
At the end of the reporting period 6,147 5,782

The outstanding short-term trade receivables at 31 December 2011 for impairment are interestbearing for a total of 4.1 million euros, which represents 9% of the total outstanding gross shortterm trade receivables.

7.3 million euros of the trade receivables at 31 December 2010 before write-offs were interest bearing which represents 12% of the total outstanding gross short term trade receivables at this date.

The ageing analysis of the carrying amount of trade receivables can be summarized as follows:

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000
euros)
Net book
value
Not yet due Overdue < 1
year
Overdue >
1 year
2011
Short-term trade receivables
46,703 30,340 16,303 61
2010
Short-term trade receivables
56,473 47,373 8,701 399

The other receivables are interest-bearing for an amount of 15.9 million euros and consist solely of receivables which did not pass their due dates, at end-December 2011 and at end-December 2010.

The deferred expenses and accrued income consist mainly of prepaid expenses.

Credit Risk

General information on the credit risk can be found under III.8.9.

Picanol NV's credit policy is continuously monitored. A credit assessment is carried out on any counterparty requesting major credit amounts. The credit risk is also covered by credit insurance policies concluded with credit insurance companies and by the systematic use, where possible, of trade financing instruments. The other group companies also apply credit policies, but according to their own needs, as their trade receivables are of minor importance.

Since the large majority of trade receivables are covered by a credit insurance, the credit risk is only limited to outstanding trade receivables not covered by such insurance.

The gross, short and long-term trade receivables of Picanol NV represent 65% (68% in 2010) of the consolidated gross trade receivables, or 34.7 million euros. Of these, 3.0 million euros (5.2 million euros in 2010) or 8 % of the gross trade receivables are not covered through credit insurance. The gross trade receivables of P(SIP)T represent 4% (4% in 2010) of consolidated trade receivables, which are not exposed to any risk, given the general rule of delivery against payment. A provision of 6.1 million euros has been provided against the total uninsured consolidated open risk (2010: 5.8 million euros). The uncovered long-term credit risk is discussed in III.7.7.

As at 31 December 2011 off-balance sheet receivables amounting to 2.9 million euros were included, since they had been transferred to Delcredere. Picanol retains only a risk of 5% until the customer pays the first installment of the outstanding receivable.

The credit risk on cash is limited, being linked to traditional bank deposits placed with banks.

III.7.10. CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash held by the group and short-term bank deposits with an original maturity of up to 3 months. The carrying amount of these assets is approximately equivalent to their fair value:

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
31/12/2011 31/12/2010
Cash in bank and in hand 110,623 27,763
Total cash and cash equivalents 110,623 27,763

III.7.11. SHARE CAPITAL

PICANOL GROUP (in '000 euros) 31/12/2011 31/12/2010
Issued shares
17,700,000 ordinary shares without nominal value 21,720 21,720
Fully paid-up shares
17,700,000 ordinary shares without nominal value 21,720 21,720

III.7.12. SHARE PREMIUM

PICANOL GROUP (in '000 euros)
Balance at 31 December 2010 1,518
Premium on the issue of shareholders' equity in 2011 0
Expenses on the issue of shareholders' equity in 2011 0
Balance at 31 December 2011 1,518

III.7.13. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT OBLIGATIONS

Various entities within the Picanol Group operate defined benefit plans and/or defined contribution plans.

Defined benefit plans which typically provide retirement benefits related to remuneration and service are included only in the Belgian entities. These plans are insured.

DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLANS

Amounts contributed by the Picanol Group to the defined contribution plans:

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000
euros) 2011 2010
Paid contributions 777 681

In 2011 and 2010, premium payments consist only of recurrent amounts.

DEFINED BENEFIT PLANS

Reconciliation between the recorded provision for employee benefits and net liability for defined benefit plans:

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
2011 2010
Balance sheet
Provisions –
employee benefits –
long-term
Provisions –
employee benefits –
short-term
9,138
1,276
10,076
1,276
Provisions recorded in subsidiaries, but not included in
the notes given their immateriality
226 312
Net liability for defined benefit plans 10,188 11,040

The amounts recognized in the balance sheet in respect of the defined benefit plans:

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
2011 2010
Present value of funded obligations 1,533 2,137
Fair value of plan assets 1,448 2,060
Deficit for funded plans 85 77
Defined benefit obligations –
unfunded plans
Unrecognized actuarial profits and losses
10,103 10,963
Net liability at balance sheet date 10,188 11,040
Recorded in the balance sheet
Net liability at balance sheet date 10,188 11,040

The amounts recognized in the income statement in respect of the defined benefit plans:

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
2011 2010
Current service costs 113 158
Interest costs 578 752
Expected return on plan assets -66 -139
Amortization of the actuarial losses (profits)
Past service costs
301 420
Integration of subsidiaries' defined benefit plans
Curtailment (gain)/loss recognized
Settlement (gain)/loss recognized
Total pension cost recognized in the income
statement 926 1,191
Actual return on plan assets in the current period 66 139
Changes in the benefit obligations:
PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
2011 2010
Benefit obligations at the beginning of the financial
year 13,100 17,599
Current service costs 113 158
Interest costs 578 752
Contribution of the participants 0 0
Past service costs 0 0
Reclassification from restructuring costs 0 0
Actuarial (losses)/profits 302 -1,059
Paid benefit obligations -2,432 -4,322
Paid premiums -24 -28
Plan curtailments 0 0
Plan settlements 0 0
Benefit obligations at the end of the financial year 11,637 13,100

Changes in the fair value of plan assets:

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
2011 2010
Fair value of plan assets at the beginning of the year 2,060 4,675
Expected return on plan assets 66 139
Actuarial (profits)/losses on plan assets 0 0
Employer contributions 1,778 1,597
Member contributions 0 0
Paid benefit obligations -2,432 -4,322
Paid premiums -24 -29
Plan settlements 0 0
Fair value of plan assets at the end of the year 1,448 2,060

The underlying assets consist of assets with fixed interest rates.

The main actuarial assumptions used at the balance sheet date (weighted averages):

2011 2010
Discount rate 4.00% 4.00%
Expected return on plan assets 4.00% 4.00%
Estimated rate of salary increases 2.00% 2.00%

The expected return on plan assets is based on the interest rate guaranteed by the insurer and the expected profit sharing on insurance contracts.

Defined – benefit obligations

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
2011 2010 2009 2008
Defined –
benefit obligations –
funded plans
1,533 2,137 5,084 5,253
Fair value of plan assets 1,448 2,060 4,675 4,792
Deficit for funded plans 85 77 409 461

III.7.14. PROVISIONS

For the year ending on 31 December 2011

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
Product
warranties
Environ
risks
mental Restructuring
costs
Litigation Other risks Total
At the start of the
reporting period
4,396 1,738 309 20 1,031 7,495
More than 1 year 16 1,738 0 0 0 1,754
Up to 1 year 4,381 0 309 20 1,031 5,741
Total 4,396 1,738 309 20 1,031 7,495
Movements during the reporting period
Increases 1,546 0 0 0 786 2,332
Utilizations -3 0 -309 -20 -219 -551
Reversals -430 0 0 0 -160 -590
Transfers 0 0 0 0 0 0
Exchange rate differences 21 0 0 0 0 21
At the end of the reporting period 5,530 1,738 0 0 1,438 8,707
More than 1 year 43 1,738 0 0 9 1,790
Up to 1 year 5,487 0 0 0 1,430 6,917
Total 5,530 1,738 0 0 1,438 8,707

The provisions for product warranties primarily relate to warranties associated with the sale of weaving machines. The provisions are calculated on the basis of historical costs of product warranties related to the supply of goods and services. They are recalculated annually on the basis of actual costs incurred in the previous financial year.

The provision for environmental risks only covers pollution risks associated with land located in Belgium.

The provision for restructuring costs at the end of 2010 includes provisions for redundancy payments and early retirement pensions for the restructuring operations carried out for Picanol NV, Proferro NV, PsiControl NV and Verbrugge NV. These provisions were fully spent in 2011.

The other risks and charges include provisions for onerous contracts and other obligations regarding taxes and the environment under the sales agreement of GTP Greenville. Since the discussions regarding the aforementioned other obligations are ongoing, no further explanations will be provided.

For the year ending on 31 December 2010

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
Product
warranties
Environ-
mental
risks
Restructuring
Costs
Litigation Other risks Total
At the start of the
reporting period
2,520 1,738 4,857 20 29 9,165
Movements during the reporting period
Increases 1,973 0 0 0 1,023 2,996
Utilizations 0 0 -4,236 0 0 -4,236
Reversals -130 0 -312 0 -20 -462
Transfers 0 0 0 0 0 0
Exchange rate differences 33 0 0 0 0 33
At the end of the reporting period 4,396 1,738 309 20 1,031 7,495
More than 1 year 16 1,738 0 0 0 1,754
Up to 1 year 4,381 0 309 20 1,031 5,741
Total 4,396 1,738 309 20 1,031 7,495

III.7.15. INTEREST-BEARING DEBT

For the year ending on 31 December 2011

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
Due within
1 year
Due between
1 and 5 years
Due after
more than 5
years
Total
long-term
Financial leases
Credit institutions
Export finance
1,667
0
839
5,696
1
535
0
0
0
5,696
1
535
Total interest-bearing debt > 1
year
2,505 6,232 0 6,233
Credit institutions 0
Total interest-bearing debt < 1
year
0
Total short-term interest-bearing
debt
2,505

For the year ending on 31 December 2010

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
Due within
1 year
Due between
1 and 5 years
Due after
more than 5
years
Total
long-term
Financial leases
Credit institutions
Export finance
1,790
0
2,083
7,363
6
1,151
0
0
0
7,363
6
1,151
Total interest-bearing debt > 1
year
3,872 8,520 0 8,520
Credit institutions 200
Total < 1 year interest-bearing
debt
200
Total short-term interest-bearing
debt
4,073

The table of due dates together with the list of due dates for future interest charges represent the total future cash flows for the existing financial obligations.

The group's interest-bearing loans amount to 8.7 million euros, compared with 12.6 million at the end of 2010. Since the export financing is a mirror image of the financed trade amounts receivable, and the agreed interest rates are the same, the net market value of this item is zero.

The fall in interest bearing loans compared with 2010 is due to the further reduction of leasing debt and export financing.

Long-term export financing is entered into at fixed rates. The outstanding balance is denominated 26% (58% in 2010) in EUR and for 74 % in Yen (42% in 2010). The average remaining term at 31 December 2011 was 18 months (20 months in 2010) for the borrowings in EUR, and 30 months for the borrowings in Yen.

Total future interest charges were payable as follows from 01/01/2012 onwards:

Due within
1 year
Due between
1 and 5 years
Due after more
than 5 years
Financial leases 365 553 0 918
Credit institutions
Export finance
80 13 0
93
TOTAL 445 566 0 1,011

Total future interest charges are payable as follows from 01/01/2011 onwards:

Due within
1 year
Due between
1 and 5 years
Due after
more than 5
Years
Financial leases 463 918 0 1,381
Credit institutions
Export finance
330 35 0
365
TOTAL 793 953 0 1,746

The majority of the group's financial obligations are entered into and managed centrally by Picanol NV.

Financial debts do not include borrowings subject to debt covenants.

III.7.16. OBLIGATIONS UNDER FINANCIAL LEASES

Present
value
Present
value
Minimum
lease
of minimum
lease
Minimum
lease
minimum
lease
payments payments payments payments
PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
31/12/2011 31/12/2011 31/12/2010 31/12/2010
Lease payments due within the year 2,031 1,667 2,253 1,790
Between 1 and 5 years
After 5 years
6,249
0
5,696
0
8,281
0
7,363
0
Total lease payments 8,281 7,363 10,534 9,153
Future interest charges -918 0 -1,381 0
Present value of the lease obligations 7,363 7,363 9,153 9,153
Less payments due within the year
Payments due after 1 year
-1,667
5,696
-1,790
7,363

The consolidated financial leases primarily relate to the plant and equipment of Proferro NV and Verbrugge NV. The total interest charges vary between 4.7% and 5.9% per annum. The fair value of the underlying assets amounted to 10.6 million euros at the end of 2011 compared with 12.8 million euros at 31 December 2010.

III.7.17. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The various categories of financial assets and obligations that apply to the company are limited to loans and accounts receivable, financial obligations valued at the amortized cost price and financial assets/liabilities entered at their real value in the income statement. As regards the financial assets/liabilities valued at their real value in the income statement, their inclusion is shown separately under the section 'trade and other accounts receivable,' with further explanations under the section 'financial derivatives.' The other categories are discussed in the respective explanations for each section.

The Picanol Group does not apply hedge accounting to derivative financial instruments.

The Picanol Group manages a portfolio of derivatives in order to cover risks relating to exchange rate fluctuations resulting from operating and financial activities. Currency risks are hedged in so far as they influence the group's cash flows. Risks resulting from the conversion of assets and liabilities of the foreign activities into the presentation currency of the Picanol Group are not hedged.

It is the company policy not to engage in speculative or leveraged transactions or to hold or issue derivatives for trading purposes.

Picanol NV has foreign currency hedges in the form of forward contracts. These primarily concern forward sales contracts related to expected cash inflows, whereby the USD is sold forward. The change in market value is recognized in the income statement. The marked-to-market value of these forward contracts for which no underlying assets or liabilities exist is justified by orders placed but not yet invoiced.

The valuation method is based on the valuation models as defined by the banks with which the forward contracts are placed.

The marked-to-market value of the derivative financial instruments is presented on the liabilities side of the balance sheet 'other current liabilities.

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
Notional
amount (*)
Marked-to
market
Forward sales contracts < 6 months 2,150 -89
Forward sales contracts > 6 months 0 0
Sub-total forward sales contracts 2,150 -89
Interest Rate Swaps (IRS) 0 0
Sub-total Interest Rate Swaps (IRS) 0 0
TOTAL 2,150 -89

Overview of forward exchange contracts at 31 December 2011:

Overview of forward exchange contracts at 31 December 2010:

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
Notional
amount (*)
Marked-to
market
Forward sales contracts < 6 months 2,104 -35
Forward sales contracts > 6 months 0 0
Sub-total forward sales contracts 2,104 -35
Interest Rate Swaps (IRS) 0 0
Sub-total Interest Rate Swaps 0 0
TOTAL 2,104 -35

The adjustment to the marked-to-market value of the financial instruments is recognized in the income statement under 'other financial income and expenses'.

III.7.18. TRADE AND OTHER PAYABLES

Trade and other payables can be broken down into the following categories:

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
2011 2010
Trade payables 49,676 49,386
Other payables
Income taxes payable 2,290 2,778
Downpayments received 18,319 18,246
Remuneration & social security 14,697 14,166
Accrued expenses and deferred income 3,690 3,268
Marked-to-market derivatives 89 35
Other liabilities 197 198

'Trade payables' and 'other liabilities' in the above table are regarded as financial instruments.

The remaining liabilities are regarded as non-financial liabilities. The maturity schedule of the short term trade payables can be summarized as follows:

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000
euros)
Net book
Value
Due within
2 months
Due within
2 and 4
months
Due within
4 and 6
months
Due within 6
and 12
months
2011
Short-term trade payables
49,676 48,903 284 131 359
2010
Short-term trade payables
49,386 48,581 436 18 350

Both the short-term trade and other payables are non-interest bearing liabilities both at 31 December 2011 as at end 2010.

III.8. MISCELLANEOUS

III.8.1. OPERATING LEASE AGREEMENTS

PICANOL GROUP
(in '000 euros)
31/12/2011 31/12/2010
Payments due within the year
Between 1 and 5 years
After 5 years
1,251
983
1,759
1,049
Minimum future lease payments 2,234 2,808

Operating lease payments represent rentals payable by the group for certain production, logistics and/or administration equipment.

An amount of 2.1 million euros was recognized as a rental cost in the income statement in 2011, compared with 2.4 million euros in 2010.

III.8.2. EVENTS AFTER THE BALANCE SHEET DATE

There are no important events after balance sheet date.

III.8.3. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

COUNTERPARTY BALANCE
SHEET
POSITION
INCOME
STATEMENT
COSTS
Affiliated parties to
the STAK
7,693 232,373 -571,015
Non-affiliated parties to the
STAK
-269,860

The amounts mentioned above include the remunerations chargeable to the Picanol Group for services and various commercial transactions at market conditions in the course of 2011. The amounts above include amongst other remunerations that are also covered in the corporate governance sections. For the remunerations of the Board of Directors, see page 16.

III.8.4. REMUNERATION OF THE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Remuneration of the Managing Director

In EUR
Name Luc Tack
Basic remuneration -
Variable remuneration -
Total -
Pension -
Other benefits -

The Managing Director does not receive long-term cash incentive plans.

Remuneration of the other members of the Executive Management

840,110
320,000
1,160,110
Fixed contribution: 58,450
7,855

* remuneration company car

The level and structure of the remuneration of other members of the Management Committee seek to enable the company to attract and motivate qualified managers. The remuneration is regularly checked to ensure that it corresponds with market trends.

The other members of the Executive Management do not receive long term cash incentive plans.

The members of the Management Committee do not receive directors' fees for the companies where they fulfill a director's position.

At the General Meeting of Shareholders of 20 April 2011, the shareholders approved the Board of Directors proposal to deviate from the provisions of the Corporate Governance in relation to provisions on the distribution of bonuses in time. The bonuses of the other members of the executive management were therefore paid out in one sum.

III.8.5. EXCHANGE RATES

in euros Average exchange rates Closing exchange rates
ISO 2011 2010 2011 2010
Brazilian Real
Chinese Yuan (Renminbi)
Indonesian Rupee (1000)
Indian Rupee
Mexican Peso
Romanian Leu
Turkish Lira
BRL
CNY
IDR
INR
MXN
RON
TRY
0.4261
0.1114
0.0815
0.0152
0.0573
0.2359
0.4269
0.4311
0.1121
0.0834
0.0166
0.0599
0.2374
0.5002
0.4139
0.1226
0.0852
0.0146
0.0554
0.2313
0.4093
0.4509
0.1134
0.0833
0.0167
0.0604
0.2346
0.4832
US Dollar USD 0.7195 0.7573 0.7729 0.7484

III.8.6. PERSONNEL

31/12/2011 31/12/2010
In units Fully
consolidated
Proportionally
consolidated
Total Fully
consolidated
Proportionally
consolidated
Total
Management 6 0 6 6 0 6
White collars 561 0 561 599 0 599
Blue collars 1,348 0 1,348 1,477 0 1,477
Average number of personnel
employed
2,036 0 2,036 2,008 0 2,008
Average number of personnel
employed in Belgium
1,356 0 1,356 1,288 0 1,288
Remuneration and social
charges
(in '000 euros)
87,436 87,436 83,515 83,515

III.8.7. AUDIT AND NON-AUDIT SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE AUDITORS

The auditor received an amount of 140,000 euros for performance of his audit task in 2011.

In the course of 2011 the auditor and the auditor related parties charged 11,000 euros for tax and legal advice.

III.8.8. CONTINGENT ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

The Picanol Group has no material contingent assets and liabilities at 31 December 2011.

III.8.9. FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT

The Picanol Group is exposed to risks deriving from movements in exchange rates, interest rates and market prices that affect its assets and liabilities. These are the main market risks to which the group is exposed. Picanol Group's financial risk management seeks to limit the effects of these market risks from its operating and financial activities. The group is also confronted with interest and liquidity risks, for which it applies the necessary means to control.

Currency risk

The Picanol Group incurs currency risks mainly on sales and purchase and, to a lesser degree, on financial debt that is expressed in a currency other than the subsidiary's functional currency.

The Picanol Group manages a portfolio of derivatives which match the currency risks deriving from business and financial activities. These are discussed in III.7.17.

The currencies in which the main Picanol Group subsidiaries operate are the US dollar and the Chinese renminbi. Based on the volatility of these currencies against the euro in 2011, we give below the sensitivity of a 5% positive/negative fluctuation of the US dollar and Chinese renminbi exchange rates:

Company Balance sheet
position
Amount in
local
currency
Currency Effect
+5%
Effect
-
5%
GTP Greenville
(USD)
P(Sip)T (RMB)
Trade payables
Trade receivables
950
863
EUR
EUR
47.5
-43.2
-47.5
43.2
Trade payables 1,269 EUR 63.4 -63.4
GTP Mexico (MPE) Other payables 225 EUR 11.3 -11.3
GTP Istanbul (YTL) Trade receivables 167 EUR -8.4 8.4
Trade payables 188 EUR 9.4 -9.4
80.0 -80.0

Changes in the euro exchange rate during 2011 within the above-mentioned volatilities would have given a 80 thousand euros higher/lower consolidated profit.

Interest rate risk

By the end of 2011 interest-bearing debt consisted solely of interest bearing loans finance leases (fixed rate) and export financing.

Given the fixed interest rates on the long-term receivables, and due to the fact that the export financing is simultaneously concluded with the correspondent accounts receivable, the interest rate sensitivity is nil. The volume of interest-bearing trade receivables outstanding at 31 December 2011 against which export financing has been concluded at the same fixed interest rate amounts to 1.4 million euros (2010: 3.2 million euros).

Credit risk

The group's most important current financial assets are its cash and cash equivalents and its trade and other receivables. These represent the group's maximum exposure to the credit risk of financial assets.

The group's credit risk lies primarily in its trade receivables. The amounts shown in the balance sheet are presented including the provisions for doubtful debtors. These are estimated by group management based upon historical data and estimates of the current economic environment. The maximum exposure to credit risk is equal to the book value of all financial assets. For a detailed discussion of this risk the reader is referred to III.7.9.

Liquidity risk

In order to guarantee its liquidity and financial flexibility at all times, the Picanol Group has various unutilized credit lines in euros in amounts that are considered adequate to current and future financial needs. The Picanol Group has total credit lines excluding bank guarantees available to it of 67.1 million euros (2010: 121.1 million euros) of which export financing is representing 31.0 million euros and 36.1 million euros straight loans. At balance sheet date the credit lines were used for an amount of 1.4 million euros excluding bank guarantees.

The credit line for bank guarantees amounts to 14.0 million euros (2010: 14.0 million euros), with 3.7 million euros of bank guarantees outstanding at 31 December 2011. The Picanol Group uses these bank guarantees primarily for commercial purposes (tender process delivery guarantee).

III.8.10.MISCELLANEOUS

Capital management

The capital management of the Picanol Group aims essentially at:

  • protecting the capital to ensure continuous business operations resulting in a continuous shareholder value, and benefits for other stakeholders
  • the distribution of an appropriate dividend to the shareholders.

The capital of the group is formed in accordance with the outstanding risk, which changes according to economic developments and the risk profile of the underlying assets. The Picanol Group can change the dividend to shareholders, issue new shares or sell assets in order to maintain or change the capital structure.

STATUTORY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF PICANOL NV

PICANOL NV
(in '000 euros)
2011 2010
FIXED ASSETS 60,136 62,446
Intangible assets 646 847
Tangible fixed assets 7,576 7,749
Financial fixed assets 51,913 53,850
CURRENT ASSETS 143,289 79,490
TOTAL ASSETS 203,425 141,936
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 123,091 59,601
Share capital 22,200 22,200
Share premium account 1,518 1,519
Reserves 45,136 43,656
Profit/(loss) carried forward 54,236 -7,774
Investment grants 0 0
PROVISIONS AND DEFERRED TAXES 15,807 12,698
LIABILITIES 64,527 69,637
Amounts payable after one year 535 1,151
Amounts payable within one year plus accrued expenses and
deferred income
63,992 68,486
TOTAL LIABILITIES 203,425 141,936
SALES 348,869 264,085
OPERATING RESULT 44,072 21,023
FINANCIAL RESULTS 10,089 2,057
EXTRAORDINARY RESULTS 16,161 50
TAXES -6,832 -3
PROFIT FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 63,490 23,127

NOTES TO THE STATUTORY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Notes to the balance sheet and income statements of the parent company Picanol NV.

The balance sheet total of Picanol NV increased by 61.5 million euros, from 141.9 million euros at the end of 2010 to 203.4 million euros at 31 December 2011. This increase was mainly due to a considerable increase of cash resulting from the strong increase in operating profit and the sale of the Steel Heddle activities of GTP Greenville.

The turnover of Picanol NV increased by 32% in 2011 compared with 2010, from 264.1 million euros to 348.9 million euros. This evolution in turnover is mainly caused by an increase in the volume of machines sold. The gross margin (operating revenue less the purchases of raw materials and auxiliaries, services and various goods) increased from 61.7 million euros in 2010 to 86.8 million euros in 2011. The gross margin, as a percentage of turnover increased from 23.4% in 2010 to 24.9% in 2011. The operating result rose from 23.0 million euros to 44.1 million euros at the end of 2011.

The net financial result increased by 8.0 million euros, mainly due to dividends paid out by both Chinese companies.

Net extraordinary items increased by 16.1 million euros, mainly through the sale of the Steel Heddle activities of GTP Greenville.

The net book value of participations in associated companies and the receivables on the relevant companies were valued and ratified by the Board of Directors.

As a world player, the Picanol Group is faced with the geo-political situations that its customers are coping with. In addition, the financial competitiveness is highly dependent on structural exchange rate fluctuations. Permanent technological development is also vital to safeguard Picanol's position as world player in the sector.

See paragraph III.2 on the valuation of the risks of going concern and asset valuation.

Financial instruments

Picanol NV practices foreign currency hedges through forward contracts. These forward contracts have a total nominal value of 2.2 million euros and a positive marked-to-market of -0.1 million euros at 31 December 2011. This marked-to-market is recognized in the income statement of the company at 31 December 2011 to the extent that it relates to balance sheet positions existing at 31 December 2011. Forward contracts for which no underlying balance sheet position existed at 31 December 2011 are treated as cash flow hedges. These positions are justified by orders received but not yet invoiced. For the financial year 2011, all outstanding forward contracts are cash flow hedges. Under no circumstances derivative instruments are used for speculative purposes. The company otherwise uses no other form of financial instruments whatsoever.

Branch offices

The company has no branch offices.

Conflicts of interest

See chapter 'Corporate Governance' in this annual report.

Report of the auditor

The statutory auditor has issued an unqualified opinion on the statutory financial statements of Picanol NV.

STATUTORY AUDITOR'S REPORT

Statutory auditor's report on the consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2011 to the shareholders' meeting

To the shareholders

As required by law and the company's articles of association, we are pleased to report to you on the audit assignment which you have entrusted to us. This report includes our opinion on the consolidated financial statements together with the required additional comment.

Unqualified audit opinion on the consolidated financial statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Picanol NV ("the company") and its subsidiaries (jointly "the group"), prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union and with the legal and regulatory requirements applicable in Belgium. Those consolidated financial statements comprise the consolidated balance sheet as at 31 December 2011, the consolidated income statement, the consolidated statement of comprehensive income, the consolidated statement of changes in equity and the consolidated cash flow statement for the year then ended, as well as the summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory notes. The consolidated balance sheet shows total assets of 288,263 (000) EUR and the consolidated income statement shows a consolidated profit (group share) for the year then ended of 61,013 (000) EUR.

The board of directors of the company is responsible for the preparation of the consolidated financial statements. This responsibility includes among other things: designing, implementing and maintaining internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of consolidated financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies, and making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances.

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with legal requirements and auditing standards applicable in Belgium, as issued by the "Institut des Réviseurs d'Entreprises/Instituut van de Bedrijfsrevisoren". Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the consolidated financial statements are free from material misstatement.

In accordance with these standards, we have performed procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. The procedures selected depend on our judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, we have considered internal control relevant to the group's preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the group's internal control. We have assessed the basis of the accounting policies used, the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by the company and the presentation of the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole. Finally, the board of directors and responsible officers of the company have replied to all our requests for explanations and information. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained, together with the reports of other auditors on which we have relied, provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion the consolidated financial statements give a true and fair view of the group's financial position as of 31 December 2011, and of its results and its cash flows for the year then ended, in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU and with the legal and regulatory requirements applicable in Belgium.

Additional comment

The preparation and the assessment of the information that should be included in the directors' report on the consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the board of directors. Our responsibility is to include in our report the following additional comment which does not

change the scope of our audit opinion on the consolidated financial statements: • The directors' report on the consolidated financial statements includes the information required by law and is in agreement with the consolidated financial statements. However, we are unable to express an opinion on the description of the principal risks and uncertainties confronting the group, or on the status, future evolution, or significant influence of certain factors on its future development. We can, nevertheless, confirm that the information given is not in obvious contradiction with any information obtained in the context of our appointment.

Kortrijk, 27 February 2012 The statutory auditor DELOITTE Bedrijfsrevisoren / Reviseurs d'Entreprises BV o.v.v.e. CVBA / SC s.f.d. SCRL Represented by Kurt Dehoorne Mario Dekeyser

INFORMATION FOR SHAREHOLDERS

SHARES AND LISTING

NYSE Euronext, Brussels code: BE0003807246
Mnemo: PIC

ICB Sector classification:

Industry: 2000, Industrials Sector (raw): 2700, Industrial Goods & Services Sector: 2750, Industrial Engineering Subsector: 2757, Industrial Machinery

The Picanol Group has been listed on the Brussels stock exchange since 1966. After the merger of the Amsterdam, Brussels and Paris stock exchanges in September 2000, it has been listed on Euronext Brussels under the abbreviation PIC. NYSE Euronext Brussels has included the Picanol Group in the continuous market, compartment B. Since 20 June 2011, the Picanol Group has been part of the BEL Small Index.

On 31 December 2011, the share capital was represented by 17,700,000 Picanol shares. During the course of 2011 no changes occurred in Picanol's share capital.

As regards the present capital structure there were no outstanding share options, warrants or convertible bonds as at 31 December 2011.

The stock exchange capitalization on 31 December 2011 amounted to 178.770 million euros.

Shareholder structure

The shareholder structure is shown on page 24.

Financial calendar

Annual General
Meeting
18/04/2012
Trading update Q1 18/04/2012 (after stock exchange close)
Announcement of half-yearly results 28/08/2012 (before opening of the stock exchange)
Trading update Q3 30/10/2012 (before opening of the stock exchange)
Announcement of annual results 2012 27/02/2013 (before opening of the stock exchange)
Annual General Meeting 17/04/2013

Announcement of half-yearly results 28/08/2012 (before opening of the stock exchange) Trading update Q3 30/10/2012 (before opening of the stock exchange) Announcement of annual results 2012 27/02/2013 (before opening of the stock exchange)

DIVIDEND

The dividend policy of the Picanol Group is based on an annual judgment concerning the return for shareholders, maintaining a free cashflow and opportunities for financing further growth.

ANNUAL INFORMATION

In accordance with the Act of 16 June 2006 here follows a summary of the 'annual information' as laid down in art. 66 of this Act. This 'annual information' is a summary of all the information published by the Picanol Group in the period from 1 January 2011 to 31 December 2011. The full document mentioned in the summary can be found at www.picanolgroup.com under the heading Investor Relations. The Picanol Group points out that some of the information contained in certain documents mentioned therein may now be out of date.

Information to the shareholders

On 20 April 2011, the General Meeting took place. As part of this, the following information was published:

  • - Minutes General Meeting
  • - Presentation General Meeting
  • Agenda of the General Meeting
  • Power of attorney

Periodic information

  • Press release 9 March 2011: Consolidated & audited results 2010
  • Press release 20 April 2011: Trading update first quarter 2011
  • Press release 30 August 2011: Half-yearly information 2011
  • Press release 21 October 2011: Trading update third quarter 2011

Occasional information

  • 1 September 2011: Disclosure of the received notification in accordance with the provisions of the act of 2 may 2007
  • Press Release 20 September 2011: Picanol Group and Groz-Beckert KG have reached agreement on the sale of Steel Heddle activities

Annual reports – the annual reports of the Picanol Group are published on http://www.picanolgroup.com/PICGROUPSITE/EN/INVESTORS/DOWNLOADS/

Statutory annual account – the statutory annual account of the Picanol Group is published on http://www.picanolgroup.com/PICGROUPSITE/EN/INVESTORS/STATUTORY+ANNUAL+ACCOUNTS/

Financial calendar – the financial calendar of the Picanol Group is regularly updated (http://www.picanolgroup.com/PICGROUPSITE/EN/INVESTORS/FINANCIAL+CALENDAR/)

Articles of association – After each change in the articles of association, a new version is published on the website (http://www.picanolgroup.com/PICGROUPSITE/EN/INVESTORS/ONTWERPEN/)

Shareholder structure – the shareholder structure of the company is published on http://www.picanolgroup.com/PICGROUPSITE/EN/INVESTORS/SHAREHOLDERS+STRUCTURE/

GLOSSARY

CNC Computer Numerical Control. This refers to the computer
controlled system of the machine tool
Features Machine characteristics (standard or as option)
Heddle Each warp runs through a heddle. The heddles are
mounted in groups on the weaving frame
IAS International Accounting Standards
IFRS International
Financial Reporting Standards
Frame see weaving frame
Dropwire Steel strip which is suspended from the warp thread.
When a warp thread breaks, the dropwire drops due to
its own weight activating the switch that stops the
machine.
Lamellar or grey cast iron An alloy based on iron and carbon with at least 2.0% but
usually more than 3.0% carbon. It is the most common
sort of cast iron
Nodular cast iron Grey cast iron where the graphite is in the form of spherical nodules.
Nodular cast iron has much better mechanical properties than lamellar
cast iron, it is tougher and very resistant to cracking.
OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer, i.e. a manufacturer
that supplies products or components used in
another
company's products
R&D Research & Development
Reed Comb-like device through which the warp ends are
threaded. Each
time a pick is inserted, the reed pushes it
up against the material
already woven, a process known
as 'beating up'
SMD Surface mounted device (mounted directly on the
surface
of printed circuit boards.)
Tire cord Fabric used as reinforcement in vehicle tires
Versatility Ability of a weaving machine to produce different types
of fabric
WCM World Class Manufacturing
Weaving machine Machine on which a fabric is made using two groups of
threads.
The threads running lengthwise are known as
warp threads,
those running perpendicular to the warp
threads are the weft
threads.
Weaving frame The weaving frame or frame moves a warp thread up
and down
in a weaving machine

ADDRESSES

Belgium

Picanol - headquarters Steverlyncklaan 15 8900 Ypres Tel +32 57 22 21 11 Fax +32 57 22 22 20

Proferro Steverlyncklaan 15 8900 Ypres Tel +32 57 22 21 11 Fax +32 57 22 22 00

Verbrugge Steverlyncklaan 15 8900 Ypres Tel +32 57 22 21 11 Fax +32 57 22 22 55

PsiControl Mechatronics Steverlyncklaan 15 8900 Ypres Tel +32 57 40 96 96 Fax +32 57 40 96 97

Melotte

Industrieweg 2019 3520 Zonhoven Tel +32 11 53 99 40 Fax +32 11 81 39 54

Brazil

GTP São Paulo Rua Treze de Maio, 164 CEP 13471-030 Americana/ SP Tel +55 19 3478-9600 Fax +55 19 3478-9608

France

Burcklé Rue de Bourbach-le-Haut 9 68290 Bourbach-le-Bas Tel +33 3 89 82 8989 Fax +33 3 89 82 8359

India

Picanol India Private Ltd Third Floor, Plot No. 23 Block - B1 Community Centre Janak Puri New Delhi 110058 Tel +91 11 45595332 Fax +91 11 45595334

Indonesia

GTP Bandung Jl. Moh. Toha Km 5,3 no. 56 Bandung 40261 West Java Indonesia Tel +62 22 521 1865 Fax +62 22 520 0591

Mexico

GTP Mexico Avena 475, Col. Granjas México, Iztacalco, 08400, Mexico D.F. Tel +52 55 56 57 1740 Fax +52 55 56 57 0041

Romania

PsiControl Mechatronics Srl Campului Street 1 505400 Rasnov Brasov County Tel +40 268 230081 Fax +40 268 230015

Turkey

Picanol Tekstil Makinalari Dunya Ticaret Merkezi A2 blok kat:5 no:210 Ataturk Havalimani Karsisi 34149 Yesilkoy/Istanbul Tel. +90 212 465 88 08 Fax +90 212 465 88 11

United States

Picanol of America 1801 Rutherford Road, Greenville SC 29609 P.O. Box 1867 Greenville SC 29602 Tel +1 864 288 5475 Fax +1 864 987 0972

People's Republic of China

Picanol (Suzhou Industrial Park) Textile Machinery Co. Ltd. 2, Songzhuang Road, FengTing Avenue Suzhou Industrial Park Suzhou 215122 Tel +86 512 6287 0688 Fax +86 512 6287 0710

Picanol (Suzhou) Trading Co., Ltd. 2, Songzhuang Road, FengTing Avenue Suzhou Industrial Park Suzhou 215122 Tel +86 512 6287 0688 Fax +86 512 6287 0981

Picanol Guangzhou Sales Office Room 701, Office Tower China Hotel, Liuhua Road Guangzhou 510015 Guangdong Province Tel +86 20 86 266110 Fax +86 20 86 66604

Investor Relations

General and financial information on the Picanol Group (press releases, annual reports, annual accounts, financial calendar, corporate governance charter etc.) can be found on the corporate website www.picanolgroup.com, in English and in Dutch. For more information, please contact the department Corporate Communication.

The annual report is available in Dutch and English on the website of the Picanol Group www.picanolgroup.com.

The Dutch version of this annual report is to be considered as the reference.

Responsible editor: Luc Tack Managing Director Steverlyncklaan 15 8900 Ypres Belgium

Picanol NV Steverlyncklaan 15 8900 Ypres Tel. +32 57 222 111 E-mail [email protected] www.picanolgroup.com

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