Annual Report (ESEF) | GN Store Nord

February 6, 2025

GN Store Nord A/S GN Stor Nord A/S Annual Report 2024 GN Store Nord A/S 2/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Introduction 2024 performance highlights 3 Letter from the Chair and CEO 4 2024 key events 5 GN’s strategic direction Our purpose is Bringing People Closer 8 Unfolding GN’s value potential 9 Key markets and global trends 11 Building the technology for the future, responsibly 15 GN investment case 17 Financials Five year overview 19 Group financial review 2024 20 Hearing division 22 Enterprise division 23 Gaming & Consumer division 24 Financial guidance 2025 25 Company information Shareholder information 27 Risk management 29 Corporate governance 33 Board and leadership 36 General information General basis for preparation 41 Sustainability governance 44 Stakeholder engagement 46 Business model 47 Value chain 48 Double materiality assessment 49 Material IROs 52 Contents tables of disclosure requirements 58 Data points that are derived from other EU legislation 60 Environment EU Taxonomy Regulation disclosure 63 Climate change 67 Pollution 77 Resource use and circular economy 80 Social Own workforce 87 Workers in the value chain 95 Consumers and end-users 99 Governance Business conduct 103 Q4 2024 (unaudited) Q4 financial highlights 106 Quarterly financial highlights 107 Quarterly reporting by segment 108 Quarterly reporting 109 Q4 segment disclosures 110 2024 segment disclosures 111 Consolidated Financial statements Income statement 113 Statement of comprehensive income 113 Balance sheet at December 31 114 Statement of cash flow 115 Statement of equity 116 Consolidated notes 118 Parent company Financial statements Statements 169 Parent Company notes 173 Statements Statements by the Executive Management and the Board of Directors 185 Independent Auditor’s Reports 186 Independent auditor’s limited assurance report on the Sustainability Statement 190 Table of contents Management’s report Statements Business review Sustainability statement Additional financials Other 2024 reports www.gn.com/remuneration2024 www.gn.com/corporategovernance2024 Reporting framework Our annual reporting suite comprises this integrated Annual Report on GN Store Nord’s financial, environmental, social, and g overnance performance – including sustainability statement in accordance with the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) , our Remuneration Report, and our Corporate Governance Report. Our reporting is prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adop ted by the EU and fur- ther requirements in the Danish Financial Statem ents Act. This annual reporting suite constitutes GN’s reporting according to Section 99a, 99b, 99d, and 107d in the Danish Financial Statements Act, section §139c in Danish Companies Act, and the Communication on Progress to the UN Global Compact. GN Store Nord A/S Lautrupbjerg 7 2750 Ballerup Denmark +45 45 75 00 00 info@gn.com www.gn.com Co.reg. no 24257843 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 3/193 2024 performance highlights GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 3/193 Revenue (DKK) 1% organic revenue growth (4% organic revenue growth excl. wind- down of Elite and Talk product lines) 18.0 bn Reported EBITA (DKK) 12% EBITA margin 2.2 bn reduction in net interest- bearing debt (DKK) vs 2023 0.9 bn Free cash flow excl. M&A (DKK) 1.1 bn reduction in scope 3 carbon emissions vs 2021* 26% reduction in scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions vs 2021* 58% AGM-elected women on GN’s Board 33% women in GN’s Senior Leadership 26% people with hearing loss helped vs 10.5 million in 2023 11.2 m ESG ratings MSCI AA Sustainalytics 10.6 (low risk) CDP Climate Change B Guidance 2025 See more details on financial performance and ESG performance *) 2021 is the baseline year for our climate targets GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 4/193 A stronger foundation for driving profitable growth in years ahead based on customer-centric innovation Solid financial performance in diverse market conditions GN’s financial performance in 2024 demonstrates that we are on track to deliver the intended results from our transformation into a simpler and more efficient one-company setup, driving profitable growth in at- tractive markets. During the year, we have executed well in our markets, increased mar- gins, and generated healthy cash flows. Combined with our strong fo- cus on cost, realization of synergies, and significant reduction of inter- est-bearing debt, we are now at a stage where we can direct more at- tention and targeted investments to create future profitable growth. While we will continue our strong focus on cost, cash flow, and profit margins, we now also take steps to further incrementally invest in our supply chain and systems to ensure a sustainable platform for growth. Our three divisions performed well in somewhat different market con- ditions. Hearing continued to gain market share in a market that per- formed in line with historical growth rates. In Enterprise, we main- tained our market-leading position and we remain optimistic about the further improvements we see in the market following the post-Covid adjustment. In Gaming, we continued to gain market share in a slightly growing market thanks to gamers’ strong appreciation of our hardware and software offerings. Overall, we are pleased with our execution and progress during the year, where we have created a stronger GN and prepared for future growth. Important transformational milestones The transformation of GN aims to drive simplicity, efficiency, and bet- ter utilization of shared capabilities to become a customer-centric in- novator at scale. During 2024, we continued to implement changes to ensure a flexible and resilient global supply chain that can secure deliveries at a compet- itive cost and over time withstand potential macro and political chal- lenges. Going forward, we will continue this change by modernizing and diversifying our global manufacturing footprint and distribution to better utilize our combined assets and improve customer service. Our research and development teams have come together in a unified organization to utilize scale, talent, processes, and facilities to acceler- ate our innovation in products and services to the benefit of our cus- tomers. This will be further emphasized by the innovative new prod- ucts we will launch during 2025 across our three divisions. We have made a range of other changes to streamline our finance op- erations and systems, including gradually bringing all business divisions onto the same systems and establishing a shared service center. Profitable and sustainable growth Our core business is to enhance communication between people and create value and growth by leveraging our unique capabilities and global scale across attractive markets. And doing so in a manner where we maximize the positive impact of our products for our customers and minimize negative impact on the environment in accordance with our sustainability targets. Today, we operate in the attractive hearing, enterprise communica- tions, and gaming equipment markets. During 2024, we exited the gen- eral consumer market where we had operated with our Elite and Talk product lines – and, consequently, this year renamed the Gaming & Consumer division to Gaming division. As we move forward, we will continue with a strong focus on shareholder value creation and make sure that we invest in areas where we believe we can deliver distinct customer innovation and generate healthy returns. Our financial targets towards 2028 are ambitious – in 2024, we made healthy progress towards delivering on these as well as strengthening our foundation for further success. Thanks to our customers, partners, and employees Looking into 2025 and beyond, we will continue to nurture our innova- tive culture to make GN an even greater place to work for focused, tal- ented, and passionate people, bringing value to our customers and other stakeholders. We would like to sincerely thank our customers and partners for the trust they place in us – and all our employees for their focus and great efforts in creating a stronger GN for the future. Jukka Pertola, Chair – Peter Karlstromer, CEO Letter from the Chair and CEO GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 5/193 2024 key events GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 5/193 August GN announces divestment of D anish hearing aid re- tailer, Dansk HøreCenter , having now divested essen- tially all brick -and-mortar retail in accordance with our customer-centric part- nership strategy July GN launches Jabra+ for ad- mins , the new remote management platform for meeting room s and devices , providing instant room sta- tus, easy troubleshooting, remote reboot of devices, easy mass configuration and updates, and more GN launches The New Norm – a stigma-busting image bank that challenges misperceptions about hear- ing loss and hearing aids March May GN Capital Markets Day 2024 : Unfolding GN’s value potential GN unveils 100+ game-spe- cific audio profiles with new SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 and companion app GN launches its smallest over -the-counter hearing aid yet, the Jabra Enhance Select 500 , with future- ready Auracast connectivity September SteelSeries sets new bench- mark for earbuds with the introduction of Arctis Gamebuds Following GN’s transition into a one -company setup, the operating entities GN Audio A/S and GN Hearing A/S w ere merged as the first of a series of mergers to reduce and simplify GN’s global legal footprint September GN released new versions of the Jabra Evolve 65, and several Jabra Engage head- sets , making them compati- ble with the EU regulation around batteries and repair- ability GN further extends the ReSound Nexia family, re- leases updated fitting soft- ware, ReSound Smart Fit 2.0 , and introduces the world’s first remote micro- phone with Auracast , the Multi -Mic+ August April New GN initiative LISTEN TO THIS unites global in- dustry leaders, academic in- stitutions, NGOs, and more to raise awareness of the link between hearing and cognitive health and to mak e hearing health an urgent priority June GN announces decision to gradually wind down its Elite and Talk product lines to further increase focus and resources on more at- tractive parts of GN’s busi- ness – and at the same time unveils the second and final generation of Elite 8 Active and Elite 10 earbuds , taking sound and streaming to the next level November GN announces new LISTEN TO THIS masterclass initia- tive designed to empower hearing care professionals with essential insights into the critical interplay be- tween hearing health, brain health, and overall quality of life Jabra introduces a new op- tion for the PanaCast 50 Video Bar System (VBS) – the PanaCast 50 VBS bar only September GN announces relocation of North American headquar- ters from Bloomington to Shakopee driving agility, scale, and flexibility into op- erations SteelSeries takes the world's fastest keyboard to the next level with the new Apex Pro Gen 3 series GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 6/193 Taking customer-centric innovation to the next level GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 6/193 Standalone PanaCast 50 Video Bar System with great possibili- ties to integrate the bar with ex- isting meeting room set -ups PanaCast 50 VBS bar only The world's fastest keyboard taken to the next level – smarter, stronger, and faster Apex Pro Gen 3 series ReSound Vivia is the world’s best for hearing in noise and the world’s smallest AI hearing aid. Sound is more vivid than ever with Intelligence Augmented – a human approach to AI ReSound Vivia A secure, cloud-based platform for remote monitoring and man- agement of all Jabra meeting room solutions Jabra+ for admins 100+ game-specific audio pro- files unveiled with new Arctis Nova 5 and companion app Arctis Nova 5 Jabra Perform 75 The new Jabra Perform 75 is a purpose -built headset for retail shiftwork to boost collaboration and productivity for frontline workers Arctis Gamebuds Wireless gaming earbuds, crafted for a versatile gaming lifestyle – setting a new bench- mark with true gaming audio ex- perience in earbuds Expanding ReSound Nexia ReSound Nexia family extension, u pdated fitting software ReSound Smart Fit 2.0 , and the world’s first remote microphone with Auracast , Multi-Mic+ Jabra Enhance Select 500 The smallest over-the-counter hearing aid yet, with future- ready connectivity – Bluetooth Low Energy and Auracast PanaCast 40 VBS The new Jabra PanaCast 40 VBS is the only Android -powered video bar designed specifically for small meeting rooms that captures the entire room GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 7/193 Our purpose is Bringing People Closer 8 Unfolding GN’s value potential 9 Key markets and global trends 11 Daring to set hearing free 12 Making work-life better for businesses and professionals 13 Helping every gamer feel like a star 14 Building the technology for the future, responsibly 15 GN investment case 17 Business review GN’s strategic direction 7/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Built on decades of shared AI research and development across the GN Group, our R&D team has pioneered a unique approach to AI that mimics the brain’s natural sound pro- cessing via a new Intelligent Focus feature to create a superior hearing experience in noise. This breakthrough technology is available in GN’s most intelligent hearing aid yet, ReSound Vivia, the industry's smallest Re- ceiver-in-Ear (RIE) hearing aid with uncom- promised battery power - and the world's smallest AI powered hearing aid. ReSound Vivia is powered by a dedicated Deep Neural Network (DNN) chip trained on 13.5 million spoken sentences that spot- lights speech and eliminates distracting noise, offering the best solution for hearing in noise without cutting people off from the world around them. ReSound Vivia is made for Bluetooth® LE Audio and the world’s first Auracast Assis- tant for hearing aids, enabling Auracast for All. Customer-centric innovation for hearing aid users GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 8/193 Developing audio and video technology at the edge guided by strong values, ethics, and clear leadership GN was founded with an innovative, pioneering, and global mindset. Originating in Denmark, GN has for more than 155 years developed technology solutions with the purpose of bringing people closer to one another. Today, we develop, manufacture, and market innovative hearing aids for people with hearing loss; headsets, speakerphones, and video equip- ment for collaboration at work; and a broad range of gear for gaming aficionados. Our products support how we communicate with other people and in- creasingly also how we communicate by use of voice and hearing with technology solutions that assist us in our everyday life and work. We combine innovative software and hardware solutions to help peo- ple seamlessly interact and experience the world around them – en- hancing hearing, speech, and sight. We are committed to consistently create value to customers, employees, shareholders, and the communities in which we operate. In doing so, our Nordic roots permeates the company fabric – how we innovate and collaborate, how we look at customers and technology, how we care for each other and the world in which we live. We are committed to doing things the right way, demonstrating the highest level of ethics and integrity in our business dealings. Strong values and clear leadership Our common values are critical enablers for us to achieve our purpose of bringing people closer: We listen to what everyone has to say, we challenge the status quo, and we strive to transform the world. Our leadership commitments guide how we drive our business forward: We obsess about our customers, we view strong execution and empow- erment as a differentiator to really make things happen, and we em- brace our diversity of thought, personality, and background to win in the market. The development of the world is dependent on communication GN founder C.F. Tietgen, 1869 Our purpose is Bringing People Closer Content 8/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 9/193 Hearing Shared capabilities across R&D, Operations, and other key functions of scale Gaming Three focused divisions supported by shared functions of scale Enterprise New one-GN organization with world- class sound and visual processing competencies powered by shared resources at scale drive innovation, synergies, and value to customers GN is an innovation-focused company with deep digital sound and vis- ual processing competencies. As an integrated hardware, software, and AI enabled innovation powerhouse, GN delivers personalized and cus- tomer-centric experiences by providing the seamless interface between the user and technology ecosystems. Simplicity, focus, and scale Our transformation during 2023 and 2024 into a one-company setup has created a simpler organizational structure and a stronger company to the benefit of our people, our customers, and our partners. GN’s business activities are organized in three focused divisions with accountability for customer and business success: Hearing, Enterprise, and Gaming (renamed from Gaming & Consumer as of January 1, 2025). These divisions are supported by strong functions to drive scale across the company: R&D; Operations; Finance; People & Culture; Digital, Data & IT; and Strategy & Transformation. Customer-centric innovation By truly listening to our customers and understanding their pain points, we can develop innovative solutions that not only meet their needs but exceed their expectations. We unite the strength of GN to deliver a customer-first approach to in- novation, ensuring that all innovation brings value to our customers and users leveraging the latest technologies including AI opportunities. In 2023, we merged our diverse R&D teams into one organization. Dur- ing 2024, we have finalized the new organizational setup and stream- lined processes to better utilize common technologies and expertise across hearing, enterprise, and gaming product groups. Unfolding GN’s value potential 9/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 10/193 Customer-centric innovation Multiplying our impact through partnerships Agile and scalable operations GN’s shared capabilities This new organizational setup has increased scale and critical mass within talents, ideas, technologies, and investments allowing us to in- novate more, faster, and better to the benefit of customers. Multiplying our impact through partnerships We drive channel and technology reach through a strategic approach to partnerships across the value chain. This accelerates how we build our technology leadership. Our strategy is to focus on being a strong partner for e.g., tech companies and unfold how we can build leading propositions into the future. Our technology leadership in leveraging AI is sustained and drive value through partnerships with large tech play- ers in the eco-system such as Microsoft, Zoom, Google, Apple, and more. Agile and scalable operations We bring true scale in our manufacturing, sourcing, and supply chain around the world. Being one integrated company, we are not only a stronger partner for our ecosystems and customers, and better for our people. We are also a larger, scalable, and cost-efficient force focused on driving real benefits and significant synergies through scalable net- works, processes, and systems. In 2023, we merged our previous two Operations organizations. During 2024, we have continued the reorganization of our global setup for manufacturing, sourcing, and supply chain with the dual aim to harvest synergies and increase operational resilience, which includes diversifica- tion of the manufacturing footprint to ensure required flexibility in a world with more geopolitical uncertainty. People and culture We believe that engaged employees who thrive, grow, and perform is a core differentiator that will make GN win. We are dedicated to foster a great workplace for our people across the globe, where aspirations meet opportunities, a place where talent come to fuel their profes- sional passion, where they realize their potential, and where they feel that they truly belong regardless of who they are. Through a genuine commitment to leadership and culture we will nur- ture an environment where strong leadership, inclusivity, and collabo- ration are the seeds from which our company's diversity, innovation, and performance bloom. Key intangible resources As described on these pages, GN’s business model relies on certain in- tangible resources, of which the most important are the availability of skilled staff across the company’s value chain and certain intellectual property rights, such as patent, trademark, and design patent rights, to protect key inventions and maintain our innovation leadership. Key in- ventions cover various aspects, such as digital signal processing, wire- less communication, as well as security solutions and user interfaces, for example, with headset, video, hearing aid, and gaming applications. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 11/193 Global megatrends contribute to making GN’s chosen market segments particu- larly attractive Based on our innovative and market-leading portfolio of hardware and software solutions, we have deliberately positioned GN in market seg- ments where we have unique capabilities and where we benefit from important global trends and multiple long-term growth drivers. Hearing, enterprise, and gaming are three attractive markets charac- terized by structurally positive megatrends: Healthy aging supports further growth for hearing aids Across the world people grow older, become more affluent, and want to stay active and healthy into a higher age. These demographic trends support the hearing aid market which is resilient and non-cyclical. Suc- cess is driven by complex technology innovation and insight into what truly matters for users and hearing care professionals. This creates high entry barriers and attractive margins. The adoption of hearing aids is still relatively low with many opportuni- ties for further growth. In 2024, GN spearheaded LISTEN TO THIS ™, a global initiative inviting healthcare partners, policy makers, patient organizations, and more to drive a new hearing health movement. This partnership’s mission is to raise greater awareness of hearing loss, promote better hearing care, and support continued research around hearing and cognition. Through evidence, collaboration, and innovation, the goal is to ensure hearing health is recognized as a critical factor in good cognitive health and overall well-being. Hybrid work and work-life blending is the new norm Enterprises and organizations today establish themselves with less physical space but more technology to support productivity in-office and also when we travel, commute, or work from home. The enterprise market is relatively difficult to enter as technology, certification, and data security requirements are high. To succeed you need to operate on a global scale and forge strong partnerships with other leading tech- nology companies and go-to-market partners, including distributors and resellers. The market supports attractive pricing for premium solu- tions. Gaming is the new entertainment format Gaming has become ubiquitous and increasingly replace mainstream entertainment. It has become the preeminent form of social engage- ment and a lifestyle for all ages and genders. Gamers are no longer the male teenagers in the basement but constitute a global and growing market with attractive profitability levels for high-end quality products with strong software solutions. Technology should cater to my personal needs As users of technology we demand more and more. We like it to be per- sonalized. We like it to be ours. We like it to be adaptable to what we want. This raises the bar on what great technology is and how hardware and software should be able to play seamlessly together with other eco-systems we like to use. GN can utilize the full range of com- petencies across our verticals to develop unique and competitive indi- vidualized offerings. Artificial Intelligence in product innovation and business management The rapid development of machine learning and artificial intelligence presents great opportunities for technology companies to further per- sonalize their offerings and already today plays an increasing role in all GN’s business areas. And, wisely used, it also offers great productivity gains in running a technology company where GN is already at the fore- front in developing and utilizing internal AI tools for efficiency gains. GN has years of combined AI and machine learning expertise across its different product areas, which is now utilized in close collaboration be- tween its R&D and IT departments and throughout the organization. Sustainability as an investment rather than a cost The growing focus on sustainability and responsible governance from customers, employees, and other stakeholders may present challenges but also offers opportunities for business development. The ambition to reach net-zero carbon emissions and support the transition to a cir- cular economy drives a range of design, manufacturing, and supply chain decisions, which are not only better for the planet, but ultimately also for the success of a company. Key markets and global trends Sustainability drives design and manufacturing decisions Health awareness becoming the norm Hybrid work normalization and work-life blending Gaming goes mainstream Increasing user demand for personalized experiences Cutting-edge technology advancements incl. AI Sustainability drives design and manufacturing decisions GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 12/193 Delivering world-first hearing innovation based on genuine customer insights The vision for our Hearing division is to enable everyone to find a hear- ing solution that fits their lifestyle – whether in-person, remote, or in any combination. We will further strengthen our partnerships with hearing care professionals and build new ways of connecting with con- sumers and partners. Lead customer-centric innovation The foundation for success in the hearing market is innovating great products and delivering them to customers in high quality and with good service. Our two latest platforms, ReSound OMNIA and Nexia, have been highly successful and fueled growth based on such feats. Our new platform, ReSound Vivia, will continue this journey, represent- ing the most profound update of our hearing solutions ever and the es- sence of our product development strategy. GN’s hearing aids are built on our Organic Hearing™ philosophy which with the support of AI emulates both the natural hearing process and the natural way we listen. GN has worked with AI in our hearing aids for years. With ReSound Vivia, we introduce Intelligence Augmented as an evolution to Organic Hearing. In plain words this approach empowers the human brain with the help from AI, rather than empowering AI to help the human. With this, we are taking a human approach to AI. This allows GN to address the actual needs of hearing aid users and avoid the many compromises they have had to live with: • The world’s best for hearing in noise – spotlight speech, eliminate distractions without cutting the user off from the world • The world's smallest AI hearing aid – delivering all-day wearing comfort and all-weatherproof design • All-day battery with no trade-offs – delivering full day use even with streaming • Made for Bluetooth ® LE Audio and Auracast™ - delivering the clear- est Bluetooth experience ever and the world’s first Auracast Assis- tant for hearing aids, enabling Auracast for all Be the trusted partner We have a long legacy of delivering world-first hearing innovation based on genuine customer insights and partnering – and this contin- ues to be the primary focus of our product innovation. Further, we will ensure to deliver consistently and reliably through our structured R&D development process and fixed release cadence. Another critical prerequisite for success in the hearing market is our unique hearing value proposition and how we think as a company: We do not compete with our customers. We lean into partnerships and our hearing strategy centers around building partnerships and helping our partners grow in their local marketplace. With the sale of a Danish hearing aid retail chain in September 2024, GN has now divested essen- tially all brick-and-mortar retail in accordance with this strategy. So, it is not just about the product, it is just as much about the service we render, the quality of our partnership support, and how we inte- grate closely with our partners. Part of this is truly understanding the players in the diverse channels in the market and what they request from us as their partner. We will continue to grow our hearing business in a diversified way across channels and partners. Modernize for effectiveness and efficiency To best support our product innovation, our partner support, and drive profitability, we are modernizing our hearing business to become more effective and efficient. We do this through three pillars: • Delivering predictive metrics and quality in everything we do for everyone we serve, manifesting GN as a reliable partner • Improving our IT infrastructure to create a modern digital back- bone to better support partners and become easier to do business with - localizing, simplifying, and automating operations while lev- eraging the scale of GN to deliver the best experience at the right cost • Establishing a strong partner-driven commercial model with the capabilities required to serve our individual partners Daring to set hearing free > The hearing market • Resilient, non-cyclical market • Aging population and health awareness drive growth • Profitable industry with high entry barriers GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 13/193 Market leader in specialist audio and video technology for work and life GN’s Enterprise business operates in the market under the Jabra brand, which is seen as the leader in professional headsets, personal speaker- phones, and in video meeting quality and engagement. From January 1, 2025, the BlueParrott product line was moved to the Enterprise divi- sion to drive growth in the front-line worker opportunity. While GN’s enterprise grade products in themselves offer premium de- sign and hardware, the true value is greatly enhanced by embedded software and application layers to provide outstanding user experi- ences when connecting with solutions delivered by partners such as Mi- crosoft, Zoom, and Google. Thus, the real value for businesses and professionals of our enterprise solutions is improved productivity, performance, and efficiency, allow- ing enterprises to unlock the full value of their software investments. Innovative thought-leader for modern work GN’s enterprise products and solutions address key customer needs and daily pains in enterprises of all sizes. Some of the key characteris- tics of ‘enterprise grade’ products and solutions which contribute to making this category unique and difficult to enter are: • Headset, speaker, or video solution have to be optimized and certi- fied for the enterprise’s choice of software solution and the whole package needs a very high degree of data security, including cyber security • Products and solutions need to be easy to deploy globally, and a scalable device management system needs to ensure easy and efficient daily management, enabling upgrades, management of settings, tracking of devices, and many other services and features • And, today, great quality hardware not only needs to work well but also have to look great to satisfy employees’ lifestyle choices GN has a long history in enterprise and will continue to invest signifi- cant resources in understanding true customer needs and innovate to meet current and future needs among businesses and professionals. One example of an expected future customer need is enabling profes- sionals to easily interact with generative AI through voice. With our sound processing capabilities, GN is uniquely positioned to capitalize on this opportunity. Preferred partner for Unified Communication & software platforms Another key stronghold for GN’s Enterprise division is strong ecosys- tem-led partnerships developed over many years that drive co-develop- ment opportunities to further enhance customer value. Jabra enterprise solutions are certified for all major Unified Communi- cations software vendors, notably Microsoft, Zoom, and Google. The Jabra enterprise solutions are the preferred choice by large enterprises – e.g., more than 80% of Fortune 100 companies. Most trusted and reliable vendor in our categories To be the most trusted and reliable vendor in our categories, high per- formance in the ‘essentials’ of our products is needed - e.g., ease of use and high ingoing and outgoing audio quality. We also need high quality launches, continued upgrades, and support throughout the product life cycle. Finally, we need to make it easy for the end-customer to transact and obtain necessary information and services through the channel. Best in category go-to-market execution GN’s Enterprise division has an extended channel network of 20,000 re- sellers to reach a long tail of small and medium-sized enterprises. Sig- nificant resources continue to be invested in nourishing this network. Furthermore, our Enterprise division has a strong high-touch sales force working directly with our largest end-customers. Finally, go-to- market partnerships with UC and hardware partners, incl. Lenovo and Creston, ensure an even broader market reach and impact. Making work-life better for businesses and professionals The enterprise market • Hybrid “technology rich” work is here to stay • Experience and tech shifts like generative AI drive innovation • Structurally profitable industry with high entry bar- riers • Channel network required for reach in the market GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 14/193 Pushing the boundaries and taking customer centricity to the extreme Today, gaming has become mainstream entertainment. 45% of gamers are women 1 . The average age of gamers is 32 years 1 . Many who have retired from work now pick up gaming again. The myth that gaming is for teenagers in the basement no longer applies. Historically, a key driver for the gaming business is e-sports, which has grown into a major entertainment industry with 215 million monthly viewers 2 . The structural fundamentals in the gaming industry provide a solid platform for further growth for gaming peripherals. SteelSeries was the original e-sports brand, and e-sports professionals have won more money using SteelSeries gear than any other brand. Over its 20+ years, it has become the brand of choice for those who want to play like the pros. The focus for SteelSeries is to provide best-in-class experiences through performance-enhancing software combined with cutting-edge hardware. Unique go-to-market model With e-sports being deeply rooted in SteelSeries’ DNA, the go-to-mar- ket model, among other, builds on working closely with e-sports teams, professionals, and hundreds of major streamers. SteelSeries also runs their own streaming channels and e-sports tournaments. 1 Newzoo Global Gamer Study 2024 2 Newzoo Global Gamer Study 2023 This approach has created a significant grassroots audience of 160 mil- lion gamers and SteelSeries is a widely known and recognized premium gaming brand. Customer-centric innovation The SteelSeries winning formula is hard to replicate – SteelSeries was founded by gamers and still is driven by gamers at the same time as they are avid business professionals and innovative engineers and product designers. This allows the team to take customer centricity to the extreme, identi- fying issues and opportunities before gamers themselves can even identify their needs. Integrated hardware and software enhance experiences This formula has enabled SteelSeries to constantly be one step ahead and innovate at the edge, thus solving problems for gamers via hard- ware and software. While the hardware is great, the real magic lies in software integration. Since its foundation, SteelSeries has delivered an extensive list of world-first innovations, including the first integrated software platform for gamers as well as a range of software solutions that continue to en- hance the product experience and create stickiness for gamers – exem- plified with SteelSeries’ GG software platform now having crossed 3.5 million active users and the Moments feature having crossed 1 billion clips created. Solving real problems for gamers and staying premium SteelSeries’ goal is to own the premium side of the gaming rig – the full suite of peripherals that gamers want. The current offering encom- passes headsets, keyboards, mice, controllers, surfaces, and recently also microphones and speakers. To potentially move into other gaming peripherals, it will require that SteelSeries feel they can solve real problems for gamers that nobody else is solving, thus allowing for premium pricing. Only then will they play. Helping every gamer feel like a star The gaming market • Gaming is going mainstream • Growing engagement – more than gaming • Fragmented market starting to consolidate GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 15/193 Sustainability is a strategic lever to maximize the positive impact of our products, minimize negative impact on the environment, and safeguard human rights across our value chain Products making a positive impact With GN’s overarching purpose of Bringing People Closer, we are proud of the positive difference our products make to society and people’s lives – to mention just a few examples: • Our hearing instruments help our users lead better lives – cur- rently, more than 11.2 million people across the world benefit di- rectly from our hearing solutions. As the connections between hearing loss, cognition, and health become clearer, untreated hear- ing loss becomes much more than a daily nuisance but rather a se- rious health risk • Our audio and video solutions help our customers choose remote collaboration over carbon-emitting travel or commuting – switch- ing e.g., long-distance travel with virtual meetings reduce enter- prises’ climate footprint and daily work-life balance can improve with increased workplace flexibility • Our gaming solutions support people of all ages in their social in- teractions with other gamers, representing a more active form of entertainment than passive viewing – today, gaming is a fast grow- ing community that positively impacts people interacting with friends and expanding their social network Reducing negative impact from our activities Producing and distributing millions of technology products every year obviously has an impact, which is why GN has laid out an ambitious strategy to reduce any negative impact from our activities. Building on our long history of responding to changing demands from our stakeholders, sustainability has over the past years become increas- ingly integrated into GN’s business strategy. GN’s approach to sustain- ability is driven by a desire to create real and lasting value for all our stakeholders. Therefore, sustainability is integrated into how we run our company, as a consideration in key decisions on how we design our products and run our operations. Accordingly, we have not set up a separate sustainabil- ity governance structure but use our existing business processes to drive this agenda. Overall, we focus on three areas where we have the most impact: 1. Sustainable design – developing product designs that impact the experience of our products, not our environment 2. Decarbonization – reducing our carbon footprint as fast as the sci- ence tells us 3. Supply chain responsibility – safeguarding human rights across our full value chain We continuously work on all environmental, social, and governance topics that are material to our business and processes, whether it is moving towards recycled material in products, nurturing a diverse and inclusive workforce, or working with our suppliers on safeguarding hu- man rights for everyone working in our value chain. As the climate crisis intensifies, ensuring our children’s future requires that we innovate and adapt. We are committed to protecting our planet by reaching our 2030 climate goals and having net-zero emis- sions by 2050, in line with the scientific consensus on the need to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. We are focused on product and service development that will help us achieve this target and support the transition to a circular economy. In doing this, we are confident that we will comply with growing product- related sustainability legislation, achieve sustainability certifications for our products, and attract sustainability-minded customers and employ- ees. Building the technology for the future, responsibly CSRD compliant reporting Our status and progress on environmental, social, and govern- ance topics (ESG) are described in detail in the Sustainability statement of this report in accordance with the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 16/193 GN develops and manufactures cutting- edge hearing aids and accessories, enter- prise audio and video collaboration equipment and services, gaming periph- erals, and associated software solutions. These are marketed and sold across the world Global reach, local presence Research & Development GN has R&D centers in Denmark, the U nited States, the Netherlands, Poland, France, Italy, and China. The Group has a unique blend of leading expertise of the human ear, audio, video, speech, gaming, wireless technologies, miniaturization, software, and AI. In 2024, GN invested D KK 1.9 bn in research and development. Manufacturing GN has its own central and regional manufacturing sites for hearing aids and accessories in Australia, China, Denmark, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea , Spain, and the United States. GN’s enterprise audio and video collaboration equipment and its gam- ing products are produced by carefully selected manufacturers mainly in Asia. Most components are sourced from suppliers in Asia. GN works with a small number of tier 1 manufacturers supported by more than 100 sub -suppliers. Sales and distribution GN’s hearing aids and accessories are sold in around 100 countries across the world. GN has its own customer teams in 30+ countries and operates via partners and distributors in another 70 countries. GN’s enterprise audio and video collaboration equipment, software, and services , and its gaming products and software solutions are sold via distributors , retailers, and GN’s own webstores in 80+ countries across the world. Partners are responsible for logistics, local customization, and final packaging to optimize lead -time to the final customer, delivering from four regional centers in Mexico, Poland, China, and Hong Kong. 16/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content GN offices Countries with direct sales Countries with GN distributors GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 17/193 We enhance communication between people, and create value and growth by leveraging our unique capabilities and global scale across attractive markets We do this based on the following characteristics: • We operate in attractive markets across Tech and MedTech, backed by fundamental megatrends and high entry barriers • Our focused, talented, and passionate people have deep expertise and proven track-record in the intersection between hardware and software delivering customer-centric innovation and value • We are multiplying our impact and execution power by being a unique, "non-competing", and attractive global partner to technology and channel leaders across the value chain • We run agile operations and global supply chain scale to support growth and navigate potential future disruptions • We will protect our planet by running our company in a climate- friendly and sustainable way • We have an asset light business model and strong margin focus leading to solid cash flows supported by group-wide synergies GN investment case 17/193 Content At GN’s Capital Markets Day in May 2024, our Executive Leadership Team laid out GN’s strategy and explained to analysts and investors how GN will create value and communicated GN’s financial targets towards 2028. We have set ambitious financial targets for 2025-2028 Our financial targets towards 2028 are ambitious and will create shareholder value that is imperative for our continued license to operate: • Deliver organic revenue growth of 5-8% (CAGR) • Achieve sustainable EBITA margin target at 16-17% by 2028* • Reduce leverage to 2.0x by 2028 Each of our business divisions contributes to growth and margin expansion in their attractive growing markets: • Hearing drives continued market share gains across markets with an expected ~3-4% market value growth. Preserving in- novation leadership with focus on core strength and strong partnership value proposition • Enterprise drives market share gains in video, while maintain- ing global market share position in headsets with an ex- pected ~3-5% market value growth. Improving channel strength while sustaining innovation leadership • Gaming drives continued market share gains across gaming gear with an expected ~5% market value growth. Improving channel strength and maintaining innovation leadership while prioritizing margins over growth *) Based on FX rates as of May 7, 2024 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 18/193 Five year overview 19 Group financial review 2024 20 Hearing division 22 Enterprise division 23 Gaming & Consumer division 24 Financial guidance 2025 25 Business review Financial s GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 18/193 Customer-centric innovation for enterprises Jabra extends its premium collaboration portfolio with PanaCast 40 Video Bar System (VBS), the only small room Android-bar that captures the entire room with 180° field of view. The PanaCast 40 VBS brings customers advanced audio tech- nology for exceptional voice clarity, quick and easy installa- tion, ensuring a seamless setup experience. For enterprises, this is a future-proof investment with flexi- ble deployment options on Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or per- manent bring-your-own-device setups and managed seam- lessly with Jabra+ for admins. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 19/193 DKK million 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 GN Store Nord Revenue 13,449 15,775 18,687 18,120 17,985 Revenue growth 7% 17% 18% -3% -1% Organic growth 9% 20% -3% -1% 1% Gross profit margin 54.3% 55.0% 48.9% 49.4% 53.2% EBITA* 1,866 2,619 1,560 1,200 2,153 EBITA margin* 13.9% 16.6% 8.3% 6.6% 12.0% Operating profit (loss) 1,627 2,397 1,111 869 1,860 Financial items, net -6 -90 -405 -462 -492 Profit (loss) before tax 1,612 2,271 725 343 1,361 Effective tax rate 21.3% 21.2% 21.4% 22.4% 22.2% Profit (loss) for the year 1,269 1,790 570 266 1,059 Total assets 16,682 23,552 30,589 30,642 30,611 Total equity 5,178 6,229 6,800 9,587 10,824 ROIC (EBITA*/Average invested capital) 19% 25% 9% 5% 10% Earnings per share, basic (EPS) 9.72 13.63 4.00 1.64 6.79 Earnings per share, fully diluted (EPS diluted) 9.63 13.49 3.99 1.64 6.78 Investments in property, plant and equipment -221 -457 -209 -93 -120 Free cash flow excl. company acquisitions and divestments 1,865 702 -1,291 1,092 1,081 Cash conversion (free cash flow excl. company acquisitions and divest- ments/EBITA*) 100% 27% -83% 91% 50% Equity ratio 31.0% 26.4% 22.2% 31.3% 35.4% Net interest-bearing debt** 3,755 4,829 14,561 10,567 9,699 Net interest-bearing debt (period-end)/EBITDA 1.6 1.6 7.1 6.0 3.8 Payout ratio 16% 12% - - - Share buybacks*** 453 1,166 - - - Outstanding shares, end of period (thousand) 128,975 127,718 127,973 145,613 145,613 Average number of outstanding shares (thousand) 128,805 128,816 127,823 138,883 145,613 Average number of outstanding shares, fully diluted (thousand) 130,032 130,194 128,126 138,991 145,712 Treasury shares, end of period (thousand) 13,293 10,458 9,220 5,300 5,300 Share price at the end of the period 487.2 411.3 159.8 171.8 133.8 Market capitalization 62,837 52,530 20,444 25,016 19,476 * Please refer to Key Ratio Definitions on page 167 for definition of EBITA ** Please refer to Key Ratio Definitions on page 167 for definition of Net interest -bearing debt. NIBD figures have been adjusted to include Loans to dispensers as these are interest bearing *** Including buybacks as part of the share-based incentive programs Five year overview Content 19/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 20/193 Revenue In 2024, GN delivered strong financial performance, creating a solid foundation for driving the desired profitable growth in the years to come. Group revenue ended at DKK 17,985 million, driven by organic revenue growth of 4% excluding the discontinued Elite and Talk prod- uct lines. The reported organic revenue growth ended at 1% - in line with revised financial guidance following the wind-down. The organic growth was driven by 10% organic revenue growth in Hearing, -3% or- ganic revenue growth in Enterprise, 7% organic revenue growth in Gaming, and -31% organic revenue growth in Consumer as a conse- quence of the wind-down. For the Group, total revenue growth was -1%, as the impact from M&A was around -2%. Gross profit GN Store Nord’s gross profit reached DKK 9,564 million compared to DKK 8,945 million in 2023. The gross margin ended at 53.2% (compared to 49.4%), positively impacted by group-wide synergies, pricing discipline, and positive business mix, while partly being off-set by inventory write-downs in connection with the wind-down of the Elite and Talk product lines as well as retail disposals including BelAudição and Dansk HøreCenter towards the end of the year. Divisional profit GN Store Nord’s divisional profit increased by 14% to DKK 5,207 mil- lion compared to DKK 4,548 million in 2023, which equals a divisional profit margin of 29.0% (25.1% in 2023). This was driven by the strong gross margin improvement, as well as a strict cost focus, partly off-set by the extraordinary costs related to the wind-down of the Elite and Talk product lines. Development costs GN Store Nord’s development costs ended at DKK -1,491 million com- pared to -1,546 million in 2023, reflecting an R&D/revenue ratio of 8.3% compared to 8.5%. The development reflects some extraordinary costs in relation to the wind-down and timing of product launches. Group financial review 2024 Revenue (DKKm) and organic revenue growth (%) Revenue distribution 4,725 5,332 6 ,227 6,802 7,104 7,221 8,271 8,677 7,463 7,205 1,503 2,172 1,466 1,253 866 2,317 2,602 2,810 2020 2021 20232022 2024 Org. growth 9% 20% -3% -1% 1% 18,120 17,985 18,687 15,775 13,449 Revenue Consumer business (DKKm) Revenue Gaming business (DKKm) Revenue Enterprise business (DKKm) Revenue Hearing business (DKKm) North America 40% Europe 39% Rest of World 21% Financial overview 2024 GN Store Nord Hearing division Enterprise division Gaming & Consumer division DKK million 2024 2023 Growth 2024 2023 Growth 2024 2023 Growth 2024 2023 Growth Revenue 17,985 18,120 -1% 7,104 6,802 4% 7,205 7,463 -3% 3,676 3,855 -5% Organic growth 1% -1% 10% 13% -3% -13% -5% 5% Gross profit 9,564 8,945 7% 4,458 4,076 9% 4,010 3,901 3% 1,096 968 13% Gross profit margin 53.2% 49.4% 3.8%p 62.8% 59.9% 2.9%p 55.7% 52.3% 3.4%p 29.8% 25.1% 4.7%p Divisional profit 5,207 4,548 14% 2,464 1,874 31% 2,544 2,442 4% 199 232 -14% Divisional profit margin 29.0% 25.1% 3.9%p 34.7% 27.6% 7.1%p 35.3% 32.7% 2.6%p 5.4% 6.0% -0.6%p EBITA 2,153 1,200 79% EBITA margin 12.0% 6.6% 5.4%p Free cash flow excl. M&A 1,081 1,092 -11 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 21/193 Management and administration costs GN Store Nord’s management and administration costs decreased by 15% compared to 2023 and ended at DKK -1,543 million. The signifi- cant decrease reflects cost control across the company, DKK 197 mil- lion one-off cost in 2023, and timing of certain structural investments. EBITA GN Store Nord’s EBITA was DKK 2,153 million compared to DKK 1,200 million in 2023. The increase was primarily driven by strong gross profit growth across the divisions, supported by group-wide synergies of DKK ~430 million, strong pricing discipline, and less extraordinary costs. The EBITA-margin increased by 5.4 percentage points compared to 2023 and ended at 12.0% in line with revised financial guidance following the wind-down. Other profit & loss items In 2024, amortization of acquired intangible assets amounted to DKK -365 million compared to DKK -392 million in 2023. Financial items were DKK -492 million in 2024 compared to DKK -462 million in 2023, primarily driven by increasing financing costs as a consequence of the debt refinancing. In 2024, share of profit (loss) in associates was DKK -7 million com- pared to DKK -64 million in 2023. Gain (loss) on divestment of opera- tions, etc. was DKK 72 million compared to DKK 61 million in 2023, pri- marily due to the divestment of Dansk HøreCenter. Profit before tax was DKK 1,361 million compared to DKK 343 million in 2023. The effective tax rate was 22.2% compared to 22.4% in 2023, translat- ing into a net profit of DKK 1,059 million compared to DKK 266 million in 2023. Earnings per share (EPS) was DKK 6.79 in 2024 compared to DKK 1.64 in 2023, driven by the strong operating performance. One-company transformation To set the company up for success, the governance structure was sim- plified in 2023. As part of this process, GN identified company-wide synergies which support and accelerate the margin improvement across the Group. The company identified DKK ~600 million in cost synergies (across COGS and OPEX) to be realized by 2026 of which roughly two-thirds was expected to be achieved in 2024. During 2024, synergies worth of DKK ~430 million were realized, thus slightly higher than expected. This was a result of the organizational changes exe- cuted in 2023, as well as leveraging both structural and operational synergies within sourcing, manufacturing and distribution. Free cash flow GN Store Nord managed to deliver yet another year with substantial free cash flow excl. M&A of DKK 1,081 million (in line with financial guidance) compared to DKK 1,092 million in 2023 mainly driven by the solid earnings level and a positive change in working capital despite somewhat higher interest payments following the successful debt refi- nancing. Capital structure Net interest-bearing debt decreased significantly by DKK 868 million to DKK 9,699 million compared to DKK 10,567 million by the end of 2023, driven by the strong operational free cash flow generation as well as the disposal of Dansk HøreCenter. The adj. leverage was reduced from 4.5x to 3.5x as a consequence of the strong earnings growth and the DKK 0.9 billion debt reduction. Reported leverage ratio was 3.8x re- flecting DKK -202 million extraordinary wind-down costs compared to 6.0x in 2023. By the end of 2024, GN had cash and cash equivalents of DKK 980 million. Moreover, GN has access to an undrawn revolving credit facility of DKK 3.9 billion (EUR 520 million) with maturity in Q2 2027. EBITA (DKKm) and EBITA margin (%) Free cash flow excl. M&A (DKKm) and cash conversion (%) Net interest -bearing debt (DKKm) and adj. leverage 1,866 2,619 1,560 1,200 2,153 2020 2021 2022 2023 EBITA margin 13.9% 16.6% 8.3% 6.6% 12.0% < Reported EBITA GN Store Nord (DKKm) 2024 1,865 702 -1,291 1,092 1,081 2021 20232020 2022 2024 Cash conversion 100% 27% -83% 91% 50% 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 3,755 4,829 14,561 10,567 9,699 Net interest-bearing debt (DKKm) Adj. leverage 1.8x 1.8x 5.5x 4.5x 3.5x GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 22/193 Significant market share gains and strong margin improvement Revenue The Hearing division had another year of double-digit organic revenue growth and market share gains. The broad-based performance led to 10% organic revenue growth (on top of 13% organic revenue growth in 2023) driven by the successful ReSound Nexia product family (organic revenue growth in Q4 2024 was 7%). Revenue increased by 4% to DKK 7,104 million, compared to DKK 6,802 million in 2023, including M&A impact of around -4% while impact from foreign exchange rates was around -2%. In North America, the market experienced volume growth in line with the historical 4-6%. GN delivered another year of significant market share gains in North America, leading to strong organic revenue growth, which was predominately driven by the independent channel and JabraEnhance.com. The overall revenue in North America ended at DKK 3,616 million (compared to DKK 3,407 million in 2023). In Europe, the market experienced volume growth slightly below the historical 4-6% growth rate. Despite the challenging market conditions and a difficult comparison base, GN has gained market shares across most countries, leading to organic revenue growth slightly below the overall division growth. The performance was supported by strong exe- cution in especially Germany and the U.K. The overall revenue in Eu- rope ended at DKK 1,847 million (compared to DKK 1,887 million in 2023). In Rest of World, the market experienced close to flat volume growth following a strong 2023, suggesting a normalization of the market. De- spite the flat market development, GN performed strongly leading to strong double-digit organic revenue growth driven especially by Aus- tralia and India, while the Chinese market was challenging. Overall rev- enue in Rest of World ended at DKK 1,641 million (compared to DKK 1,508 million in 2023). Gross profit Gross profit reached DKK 4,458 million corresponding to a gross margin of 62.8% compared to 59.9% in 2023. The increasing gross margin was positively impacted by group synergies and the continued success of ReSound Nexia, but partly off-set by retail disposals including BelAudição and Dansk HøreCenter towards the end of the year. Sales and distribution costs Sales and distribution costs decreased by 9% to DKK -1,994 million compared to DKK -2,202 million in 2023. The reduction was mainly driven by retail disposals including BelAudição and Dansk HøreCenter, while Hearing continued to drive sales & marketing investments to sustain the current market share momentum. Divisional profit The divisional profit increased by 31% to DKK 2,464, corresponding to a divisional profit margin of 34.7% compared to 27.6% in 2023. This significant increase was a result of the strong topline growth, gross margin expansion, and tightly managed sales and distribution costs. EBITA margin The EBITA margin in the core Hearing business ended at 20.0% (14.7% in 2023), using 2023 cost allocation methodology on functional group costs. Hearing division Revenue (DKKm) Gross profit (DKKm) Divisional profit (DKKm) 6,802 7,104 2023 +10% Organic revenue growth -2% FX growth -4% M&A growth 2024 +4% 59.9% 2023 62.8% 2024 4,076 4,458 +2.9%p 27.6% 2023 34.7% 2024 1,874 2,464 +7.1%p GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 23/193 Strong margin improvement in a chal- lenging yet stabilizing overall enterprise market. Flat growth in the division ex- cluding the speakerphone category Revenue The Enterprise division executed well during the year and maintained its global market leadership position in a challenging but improving en- terprise market. Revenue declined by 3% to DKK 7,205 million, com- pared to DKK 7,463 million in 2023, including an organic revenue growth of -3% (organic revenue growth in Q4 2024 was -2%). From a regional perspective, North America contributed with flat or- ganic revenue growth for the year, while Europe was negatively im- pacted by economic growth challenges in parts of Central Europe in the second half of the year. Rest of World experienced some level of modest organic revenue growth for the year as a whole. The long-term attractiveness of the enterprise market is fully intact driven by hybrid working and the continued upgrade of collaboration tools to make the experience seamless and more efficient. However, the return to growth is taking slightly longer than anticipated in the beginning of 2024 pri- marily as a result of the economic growth challenges seen in Central Europe in the second half of 2024. The major headset business maintained its market leading position in an improving market, which led to flat organic revenue growth for the year driven by GN’s leading product portfolio and continued strong ex- ecution across the organization. The emerging video business drove continued market share gains, leading to double-digit organic revenue growth rates in 2024. As room investments are moving towards integrated video and audio solutions, the speakerphone category expe- rienced high double-digit decline as a result of the structurally declin- ing market. This accounted for the majority of the organic revenue de- cline, combined with a demanding comparison base from 2023, when GN launched the successful Jabra Speak2 series. Gross profit Gross profit reached DKK 4,010 million corresponding to a gross mar- gin of 55.7% compared to 52.3% in 2023. The positive development was supported by group synergies and pricing discipline despite the lower volumes. Sales and distribution costs Sales and distribution costs ended at DKK -1,466 million compared to DKK -1,459 million in 2023. The development reflects continued execution on certain channel investments to sustain its strong market leading position in an anticipated enterprise market recovery, but also some general cost focus. Divisional profit Despite the lower volumes and revenue, the divisional profit increased by 4% and reached DKK 2,544 million compared to DKK 2,442 million in 2023. The development corresponds to a divisional profit margin of 35.3% compared to 32.7% in 2023. The increase was driven by the solid gross margin improvement and focused cost control on sales and dis- tribution costs, despite the negative topline development. Enterprise division Revenue (DKKm) Gross profit (DKKm) Divisional profit (DKKm) 7,463 7,205 2023 -3% Organic revenue growth 0% FX growth 0% M&A growth 2024 -3% 52.3% 2023 55.7% 2024 3,901 4,010 +3.4%p 32.7% 2023 35.3% 2024 2,442 2,544 +2.6%p GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 24/193 Continued market share gains in Gam- ing, while the wind-down of the Elite and Talk product lines is now finalized Revenue The Gaming & Consumer business as a whole delivered revenue of DKK 3,676 million compared to DKK 3,855 million in 2023 with an organic revenue growth of -5% as a direct consequence of the successful exe- cution of the wind-down. Total revenue growth was -5%. In the Gaming business, SteelSeries was exposed to a market in contin- ued stabilization corresponding to a slightly growing market compared to 2023. SteelSeries continued to grow rapidly even on top of a tough comparison base (16% organic growth in 2023) and further improved its market-leading position in the core gaming gear market with inno- vative product launches during the year. The strong performance re- sulted in revenue of DKK 2,810 million compared to DKK 2,602 million in 2023 translating into organic revenue growth of 7% (Q4 2024 or- ganic revenue growth of 16%). In the Consumer business, the year was characterized by the decision in June 2024 to wind down the Elite and Talk product lines with the ra- tionale to increase focus and resources on more attractive parts of GN’s business. The wind-down was successfully finalized by year-end. As a result, the Consumer revenue was DKK 866 million compared to DKK 1,253 million in 2023. Gross profit Gross profit reached DKK 1,096 million corresponding to a gross mar- gin of 29.8% compared to 25.1% in 2023. The development reflects a positive contribution from group synergies as well as strong pricing dis- cipline in Gaming, however, partly off-set by extraordinary costs re- lated to the wind-down and significant promotional activity in Con- sumer to support the wind-down. In the Gaming business, the gross profit ended at DKK 910 million, corresponding to a gross margin of 32.4% driven by group synergies and strong pricing discipline. In the Consumer business, the gross profit ended at DKK 186 million, corre- sponding to a gross margin of 21.5% driven by the wind-down. Sales and distribution costs Sales and distribution costs increased by 22% to DKK -897 million compared to DKK -736 million in 2023. The development reflects extraordinary costs related to the wind-down and continued channel investments and marketing activity to sustain the market share momentum in Gaming. Divisional profit The divisional profit ended at DKK 199 million corresponding to a divi- sional profit margin of 5.4% compared to 6.0% in 2023 significantly im- pacted by the effects of the wind-down. Focusing on Gaming going forward As a direct consequence of the wind-down, the Group experienced ex- traordinary costs of DKK 202 million during 2024, including severance payments, write-down of prior development projects and inventories. Following the successful wind-down, the division was re-named to “Gaming” as of January 1, 2025. Gaming & Consumer division Revenue (DKKm) Gross profit (DKKm) Divisional profit (DKKm) 3,855 3,676 2023 -5% Organic revenue growth 0% FX growth 0% M&A growth 2024 -5% 25.1% 2023 29.8% 2024 968 1,096 +4.7%p 6.0% 2023 5.4% 2024 232 199 -0.6%p GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 25/193 Key revenue assumptions for the financial guidance of 2025 Hearing division In 2025, GN expects the hearing aid markets to grow in line with the historical growth rates supported by ongoing favorable demographic trends. As such, GN projects 4-6% market volume growth and -1% mar- ket ASP decline, equaling a market value growth of 3-5%. Based on the attractive market fundamentals, the current sales mo- mentum, as well as the launch of ReSound Vivia and ReSound Savi, GN in 2025 expects to continue to gain market share. Consequently, the Hearing division assumes to contribute with organic revenue growth of 5% to 9%. Enterprise division Following a longer period of market stabilization, GN expects the en- terprise market to grow modestly in 2025. The projection is based on an expected increase in general IT budgets, as well as improving senti- ment across GN’s distributors, resellers, and end-customers. The market recovery is expected to be led by North America and Rest of World, as parts of Europe is currently impacted by economic growth challenges. GN expects to be able to continue to maintain its market-leading posi- tion in enterprise grade headsets, while gaining market shares in enter- prise video communication systems. The assumption is driven by the current market-leading product portfolio, launch of new customer-cen- tric innovations across headsets and video, channel access strength, and strong partnerships with leading software vendors. Consequently, the Enterprise division assumes to contribute with organic revenue growth of 0% to 4%. Gaming division In 2025, GN expects the gaming gear market to grow 3-5% driven by continued increase in the number of global gamers but held back by the current consumer sentiment in Europe. GN expects to continue to gain market shares driven by the very strong brand, innovation leadership, and category expansion. Consequently, Gaming assumes to contribute with organic revenue growth of 7% to 12% (excluding the impact from the wind-down). Wind-down impact on Group organic revenue growth Due to the successfully executed wind-down of the Elite and Talk prod- uct lines during 2024, the revenue contribution from these product lines in 2025 is assumed to be insignificant (in 2024, the product lines generated revenue of DKK 597 million). As a result, the negative im- pact from the wind-down on group organic revenue growth will be 3-4 percentage points, while the negative impact specifically in the Gaming division will be 19-20 percentage points. The group financial guidance on organic revenue growth is adjusted for this impact, why the re- ported organic revenue growth will be 3-4 percentage points lower. Key EBITA margin assumptions for the financial guidance of 2025 Following a strong margin improvement in 2024, GN expects further margin improvements in 2025, thereby being on a steady trajectory to- wards the 2028 EBITA margin target of 16-17%. The EBITA margin ex- pansion in 2025 is supported by further one-GN synergies as earlier communicated, the non-recurring nature of the DKK 202 million ex- traordinary wind-down costs in 2024, as well as underlying margin im- provements driven by leverage and scale across the three divisions. To solidify the margin path towards 2028, we will in 2025 invest fur- ther into operations including supply chain, IT modernization, ERP opti- mization, and cybersecurity to ensure a sustainable and resilient growth platform. This will allow us to drive the targeted margin expan- sion while further creating flexibility and resilience against potential further geopolitical challenges. The guidance includes certain costs linked to the wind-down for gen- eral service and warranty commitments, expected to diminish over the next couple of years. The recently announced tariffs between China and the U.S, is expected to lead to a slight negative margin impact for the Group, mainly in Gaming and to some extent Enterprise while no impact is assumed in Hearing. Finally, the development in foreign exchange rates, including the ap- preciated USD is assumed to be a headwind for the EBITA margin in 2025, primarily as a function of the tailwind to reported revenue, as the majority of the negative FX impact on absolute EBITA is hedged. Financial guidance 2025 organic revenue growth excl. wind -down 3% to 7% 12% to 14 % EBITA margin ~800 Free cash flow excl. M&A (DKKm) GN Store Nord GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 26/193 Shareholder information 27 Risk management 29 Corporate governance 33 Board and leadership 36 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 26/193 Business review Company information SteelSeries set a new benchmark for earbuds with the introduction of Arctis Gamebuds . Crafted for a versatile gaming lifestyle and engi- neered to deliver a HiFi listening experience, SteelSeries brought Arctis audio heritage and sig- nature sound to a compact form factor through a custom next-gen chipset that creates a true gam- ing audio experience. In the development process, SteelSeries utilized GN's vast experience and R&D knowledge within consumer earbuds. Customer-centric innovation for gamers GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 27/193 Through an open and active dialogue, GN strives to provide all stakeholders with timely and relevant information The GN share The total market value of GN’s shares, excluding treasury shares, was DKK 19.5 billion at the end of 2024. The price of the GN share was DKK 134 on December 31, 2024. GN is, among other indices, included in the C25 index and Large Cap in- dex on Nasdaq Copenhagen, as well as the Stoxx Europe 600 index and the Stoxx Europe Sustainability index. Ownership The GN share is 100% free float, and the company has no dominant shareholders. GN has approximately 63,000 registered shareholders. Of the entire ownership, it is estimated that around 40% are held by in- vestors in Denmark, around 35% in rest of Europe, around 25% in North America, and less than 1% in Rest of World. The 10 largest registered shareholders held in total around 35% of the GN share capital at the end of 2024 (including GN’s holding of treasury shares). By the end of 2024, one shareholder, William Demant Invest A/S, has reported an ownership interest in excess of 10% of GN’s share capital. Share capital and voting rights GN’s share capital of DKK 603,650,860 consists of 150,912,715 shares, each carrying four votes. GN has one share class with no restrictions on ownership or voting rights. The Annual General Meeting has authorized the Board of Directors to increase the share capital and issue new shares in accordance with the Articles of Association. Treasury shares On December 31, 2024, GN held 5.3 million treasury shares corre- sponding to 3.5% of the share capital, and the value of the treasury shares was DKK 709 million. Until the Annual General Meeting on March 12, 2025, the Board of Di- rectors is authorized to acquire shares in GN. The company's holding of treasury shares may at no time exceed 10% of the share capital of the company. Dividend policy and share buyback programs GN’s overall financial target is to deliver a competitive shareholder return through a combination of dividend payments and share price appreciation. GN aims to pay out a dividend corresponding to 15 - 25% of the annual net profit and to distribute additional excess cash to shareholders through share buyback programs. Dividend payments and share buybacks are subject to, among other, cash requirements to support the ongoing operations, strategic oppor- tunities, and the company’s capital structure. During 2024, GN’s net in- terest-bearing debt decreased by DKK 0.9 billion to DKK 9.7 billion, driven by the strong operational free cash flow. Consequently, the adj. leverage was reduced from 4.5x to 3.5x. GN remain focused on deliver- ing shareholder value and will consider doing shareholder distribution again, once the leverage is closer to the long-term target of 2.0x. GN will not pay out dividend in respect of the financial year 2024 and share buyback programs have been paused for the time being. Shareholder information Geographical split of shareholders (% of share capital) Major indices including GN Store Nord Index Focus OMX C25 Denmark STOXX Europe 600 Europe OMX Nordic Large Cap Nordics STXE Health Care Europe Denmark 40% Europe 35% North America 25% Rest of the World <1% GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 28/193 Incentive programs By the end of 2024, the total number of outstanding options in GN Store Nord were 5,103,379 (3.4%) of the share capital in GN Store Nord. Investor relations policy As part of GN’s investor relations activities, an active dialogue is pur- sued with existing and potential shareholders as well as with financial analysts. GN ensures that relevant and timely information is provided to the financial community to ensure that the GN share is fairly priced. This is accomplished through information continually announced to the market as company announcements and press releases, combined with investor meetings, conferences, and presentations of the com- pany’s interim and annual results. Following the release of interim and annual results, GN conducts road- shows where the Executive Management and the Investor Relations team inform investors and financial analysts about the recent developments in the company. GN is covered by sell-side analysts, who continually release analyst research reports on GN and the industry dynamics. GN has a 30-days silent period prior to publication of a financial report. During these silent periods, any communication with stakeholders is restricted. GN’s website, www.gn.com , contains historic and current information about GN, including company announcements and press releases, current and historic share price data, investor presentations, and annual and interim reports. The Investor Relations team can be contacted at: Investor@gn.com. Notices for the Annual General Meeting GN sends notices to convene Annual General Meetings by email. Letters are sent to shareholders who have requested this instead of emails. Thus, GN encourages all registered shareholders to sign up at the investor portal with their email addresses and check the box la- belled “subscribe/unsubscribe” in the field “Notice for the Annual General Meeting”. Shareholders will then receive the notice by email in the future. Share price development * Index: 3 0-12-2022 = 100 Financial calendar for 202 5 Event Date Annual General Meeting March 12, 202 5 Interim Report Q1 202 5 May 1, 202 5 Interim Report Q2 202 5 August 21, 202 5 Interim Report Q3 2025 November 6, 202 5 Read company announcements on www.gn.com. 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 31-Dec-2023 31-Mar-2024 1-Jul-2024 30-Sep-2024 31-Dec-2024 GN C25 CAP Additional relevant information GN’s investor relations policy is available at: www.gn.com/aboutIR A full list of the analysts covering GN is available at: www.gn.com/analysts GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 29/193 Content Effective risk management is a cornerstone in GN’s strategy, ensuring that GN remains resilient, agile, and competitive in an ever-changing global environment. We continue to evaluate and refine our approach, focusing on key areas such as market, technological integration, inno- vation, product quality, workforce development, ESG, and IT infrastruc- ture. Risk governance at GN is overseen by the Board of Directors, who en- sure risks are managed across the value chain. Risks are identified and governed by a risk department and the Executive Leadership Team for each division and selected functions. Risks are evaluated based on their impact and likelihood. A comprehensive risk report, reviewed and prior- itized by the Executive Leadership Team, is presented to the Board of Directors annually for approval. The main risks associated with GN’s businesses, and the main risk miti- gation taken to manage these, are outlined on the following pages. Risk management 29/193 Q1 Q2 Q 4 Q3 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Board of Directors’ risk review. Board Top Risk Review Prioritized areas receive automated risk and maturity questionnaires . The responses are automatically calculated into risk likelihood and risk impact. Hereafter, the results are evaluated and challenged by the Corporate Risk Governance team and consolidated in meetings with managers from prioritized areas. Initial risk assessment process Meeting with Executive Leadership Team who collectively challenges, validates, and prioritizes risks and risk handling activities. Audit Committee reviews Organization Risk Governance process. Audit Committee Risk Governance Review Executive impact review Risk identification and mitigation process Financial review Meeting with Finance to assess and validate impact of potential financial risks. 30/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Risk description Mitigating actions Assessment Geopolitical environment General economic and geo-political uncertainty may decrease households’ and enterprises’ discretionary spending, which may result in declining demand for GN’s products. Also, GN’s supply chains, including component sourcing, remain dependent on availability of compo- nents and manufacturing capacity in China and Asia. Escalating geopolitical instability, de- teriorating trade relations, and introduction of additional trade tariffs may impact key sup- pliers and GN’s operations. And this in turn may impact GN’s ability to continue to supply key markets. During the past several years, GN has pursued an operations and supply chain strategy to increase agility, leverage scale, and increase resilience to prepare for increased geopolitical uncertainty. This strategy was further accentuated with the decision in mid-2023 to merge all GN’s operations activities into one organization in connection with the one-GN strategy. During 2024, this has led to reduced dependency on manufacturing in and sourcing from e.g., China. This diversification strategy is ongoing and will, among other, enable GN within a relatively short timeframe to serve almost the entire U.S. market (across all three divi- sions) from manufacturing capabilities outside of China, should this be deemed beneficial. GN ongoing evaluates the extent to which its organization systematically assesses and manages geopolitical risks associated with collaboration across diverse locations, ensuring that strategies are in place to mitigate potential disruptions. In GN’s operations organiza- tion, the active assessment of geopolitical risks involves monitoring regional stability and adapting processes to maintain efficiency. Similarly, in sales and marketing, evaluating these risks helps tailor strategies to navigate market dynamics and protect brand integrity in various geopolitical contexts. GN’s assessment is that adequate strategies and measures are in place to manage these risks in a balanced way. Market and competitiveness Highly competitive dynamics characterize the product categories in which GN operates. Products must provide compelling user experiences to compete. GN experiences market consolidation, product commoditization, and attempts at conquering market share from incumbents and new competitors. As purchase decisions within some GN categories potentially migrate from professional buyers to the end-user, brand awareness becomes increasingly important for some of GN’s product lines in maintaining and expanding market share. To enhance our brand recognition and market positioning, we are embedding brand aware- ness more deeply into our regional and country planning initiatives. We adopt a proactive approach to model potential future competitive behaviors and implement enhanced feed- back mechanisms for in-market products. We continue to nurture relationships and de- velop unique propositions, such as customer-centric innovations. Additionally, strengthen- ing partnerships and engaging with regulators is essential as we work to simplify processes across quality, product launches, supply chain, and marketing. We have a strong organizational focus on assessing, anticipating, and adapting to evolving market trends, effectively managing brand recognition, analyzing competitive threats, and understanding shifting consumer behaviors, including increasing consumer demands, par- ticularly in relation to sustainability. By integrating these insights into our strategic plan- ning, we enhance our competitive advantage and ensure long-term success in the market- place. Additionally, our proactive approach to managing geopolitical and potential disrup- tions enables us to identify vulnerabilities and implement strategies to mitigate risks effec- tively. Cyber security IT and data are foundational business enablers for GN across all value chain components. All platforms are required to be available and provide the functionalities needed. Addition- ally, systems must protect data and privacy. Poor availability, consequences of cyber-at- tacks, lack of functionality in business-critical systems, or data breaches could impact GN’s operations and reputation and may result in significant fines and financial loss. We continuously implement processes and solutions that meet the increasing global data privacy regulatory demands. In 2024, GN further strengthened our data protection posture to provide excellent, secure, and trustworthy solutions. GN ongoing ensures a high level of cyber security in our infrastructure, products, and ser- vices, and adheres to legislation across the entire organization. We ensure continuous IT se- curity monitoring through our Security Operations Center. This enables us to discover and disable threats early. Information security management systems and information security policies are in place, and training is conducted continuously for all employees. The infor- mation security management system is being reviewed and approved on an annual basis by the Board of Directors and Executive Management. GN ongoing evaluates readiness and response to emerging cyber threats, incident response protocols, data protection measures, and third-party relationship risks. We assess the com- prehensiveness and current state of our cybersecurity measures across different threat vec- tors and layers, as well as the culture of continuous improvement in cyber security prac- tices. Key findings highlight strengths and areas for improvement. 31/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Risk description Mitigating actions Assessment IT landscape It is critical to GN to maintain a high degree of effectiveness of its IT landscape in support- ing sales processes and strategic initiatives, as well as facilitating research and develop- ment innovations. All platforms are required to be available and provide the functionalities needed. Poor availability or lack of functionality in business-critical systems could impact GN’s operations. To enhance our operational efficiency and support business continuity, a significant transi- tion and modernization of our IT systems is currently underway. This includes gradual re- placement of our legacy system landscape and implementation of new systems including ERP aimed at improving our logistics and product management capabilities. In parallel, we are enhancing our current systems to ensure stability and increased capacity. Through these initiatives, we aim to create an even more agile and responsive IT environment that aligns with our strategic objectives and supports our growth in the market. By analyzing current capabilities of our IT infrastructure, we identify specific areas for im- provement that will better align our technological resources with organizational goals. This alignment fosters greater agility and competitiveness in the market, enabling us to respond swiftly to changing demands and opportunities. Through continuous evaluation and en- hancement of our IT systems, we are committed to maintaining a robust framework that supports our overall mission and enhances our competitive edge. Operations (manufacturing and supply chain) It is critical to GN’s success that its inhouse as well as outsourced manufacturing and sup- ply chain setup is resilient, cost efficient, and able to deliver products and services to cus- tomers of the right quality and on time across the world. To enhance our operational resilience and efficiency, we are taking a series of proactive steps. Key initiatives include improving visibility into inbound logistics and fostering proac- tive communication and problem-solving capabilities when disruptions occur. Strengthen- ing long-term strategic partnerships is also a priority, along with onboarding new vendors that can produce outside of China. We are also investigating further regional manufactur- ing options and enhancing current systems for improved stability and capacity. Addition- ally, we are balancing operations between our different facilities. Our risk diversification strategy primarily focuses on mitigating geopolitical threats, ensuring we remain agile and responsive to market changes. Assessing our operational resilience and efficiency is essential for ensuring our ability to an- ticipate and manage disruptions effectively. This assessment includes a thorough analysis of our relationships with key suppliers, which is critical for maintaining product quality throughout the lifecycle. We assess and manage geopolitical risks, focusing on diversifying risks within our operations to enhance stability. Our commitment to continuous improve- ment is reflected in our initiatives aimed at mitigating risks associated with extreme weather, climate change, and human rights issues. By implementing robust risk mitigation strategies, we strengthen our operational framework and ensure long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of evolving challenges. R&D (hardware, software, and services) GN operates on the cutting edge of technological advances to provide new relevant user experiences and functionalities to its customers. Any failure to gain access to and deploy the latest technologies and competencies within hardware, software, and services in a timely manner would impact GN’s future earnings potential. In addition to maintaining technological leadership, GN must ensure that products and services operate without defects or other quality issues from their launch through their lifecycle. Quality deficiencies could cause significant reputational harm, and ultimately jeopardize GN’s ability to remain a relevant player in key markets. In 2023, we merged our diverse R&D teams into one organization. During 2024, we have streamlined processes to better utilize common technologies and expertise across product groups. This increased scale and critical mass within talents, ideas, technologies, and in- vestments allows GN to innovate more, faster, and better. This unified R&D organization is born with a customer-first approach to innovation, ensuring that all innovation brings value to customers and users leveraging the latest technologies. A new R&D collaborative framework as well as a centralized quality function enhance teamwork and productivity, emphasizing cross-functional collaboration, agile methodologies, and a focus on delivering high-quality results. We ongoing address market demands and threats from commoditization. Additionally, we are assessing geopolitical threats to R&D and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. The evaluation of our alignment with market demands and technological advancements is essential for fostering a culture of innovation and ensuring product quality throughout the entire product lifecycle. By assessing and promoting collaboration and integration across various functions, we enhance operational efficiency and responsiveness to market changes. Our focus on assessing continuous improvement is vital for sustaining competitiveness and driving long-term business growth. Through these initiatives, we create a resilient organization that not only meets current market demands but anticipates future challenges, positioning us for sustained success in an ever-changing landscape. 32/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Risk description Mitigating actions Assessment Products (cybersecurity by design) Technology products and solutions that connect to the internet or to other internet-con- nected devices have an inherent risk of being compromised, thus exposing users to cyber threats. It is critical for GN’s continued success and trust with customers that our products are designed to be secure and resilient towards cyber-attacks. Secure practices within our software development processes are fundamental aspects of our commitment to ensuring robust security throughout the entire product lifecycle. Fur- ther, a Center of Excellence across GN is set to enforce security initiatives and facilitate knowledge sharing. This includes implementing a Product Security Framework, alongside comprehensive training, and risk management. To enhance cybersecurity, we are securing all physical attack vectors in manufacturing and collaborating with chip vendors to ensure compliance. Secure coding practices are set to identify and eliminate vulnerabilities, sup- ported by appropriate tools and developer training. Additionally, we will document risk as- sessments and conduct vulnerability scans for new software solutions. A holistic approach ensures that our systems are fortified against cyber threats from multi- ple angles, enhancing the overall resilience of our offerings. Our evaluation extends to the R&D strategy for managing risks associated with cybersecurity and data privacy. This strat- egy is aligned with our broader organizational goals, ensuring that we remain vigilant and proactive in the face of evolving threats. By continuously assessing and refining our prac- tices and strategies, we aim to uphold the highest standards of security and integrity in all our products and services, ultimately fostering trust and confidence among our stakehold- ers. Financial risk Due to the nature of its operations, investments, and financing activities, GN is exposed to a number of financial risks including changes in interest rates and foreign exchange rates. GN’s net interest-bearing debt decreased during 2024 to DKK 9,699 million (2023: DKK 10,567 million). As a result, the adjusted net interest-bearing debt to EBITDA ratio ended at 3.5x (2023: 4.5x) driven by the strong cash flow generation. GN’s loans are primarily long-term with maturities until 2036 with a split of fixed and float- ing interest rates. Annual EBITA impact from a 5% increase in currency before hedging (DKK million) Currency GN Store Nord USD -42 GBP 31 JPY 18 AUD 11 GN has hedged a substantial part of the expected net EBITA in foreign currencies to secure the EBITA contribution of the material trading currencies for the next 12 months. During 2024, GN has successfully redeemed its EUR 330 million Bond-with-Warrant-Units 0% and EUR 600 million notes with fixed coupon of 0.875% per annum. As result of these redemptions, GN’s three-year EUR 800 million term loan facility was fully utilized as of De- cember 31, 2024. GN has short-term, uncommitted Money Market lines and Overdraft facilities in place to di- versify its borrowing instruments and manage working capital. The total size remain at EUR 442 million, with a utilization of EUR 169 million on December 31, 2024. GN also has a short-term, uncommitted Euro Commercial Paper program (“ECP”) in place to diversify its borrowing instruments. The program size is up to EUR 250 million, with a uti- lization of EUR 47 million on December 31, 2024. In total, GN has outstanding senior unsecured Private Placements of around EUR 95 million in aggregate under the EMTN program by December 31, 2024, with maturities in 2036. Moreover, GN currently has R&D loans outstanding of EUR 291 million with maturities from 1 to 5 years with fixed interest rates. To mitigate potential liquidity or refinancing risks, GN has access to a Revolving Credit Fa- cility of EUR 520 million, which was undrawn as of December 31, 2024. GN has centralized the handling of financial risks in Group Treasury except for commercial risks, which are managed by the Group’s operating businesses (divisions). The financial risks are managed in accordance with the overall financial risk management guidelines set out in GN’s Group Treasury Policy, which is reviewed on an ongoing basis. Please refer to note 4.2 in the financial statements for further information about financial risks. 33/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Content Management structure GN is governed by a two-tier management structure. GN’s Board of Di- rectors is responsible for the overall governance of the company, and the Executive Management handles the daily management under the guidelines and supervision of the Board. The ultimate authority rests with the shareholders in the General Meeting. The Executive Management consists of a Chief Executive Officer and a Chief Financial Officer. Further, the Group has established an Executive Leadership Team reporting to the CEO and the CFO. The team mem- bers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of their respective areas and serve as part of the Group’s overall leadership. Board of Directors GN's Board currently comprises nine members, of which six have been elected by the shareholders at the General Meeting, and three by the employees in accordance with the Danish Companies Act. Competencies of the Board GN’s Board strives to recruit board members with a diversified range of mutually complementary competencies. The current Board is a diverse group in terms of global experience, functional competencies, and in- dustry background which ensures that it can fulfil its obligations. The composition is a mix of members with executive positions and pro- fessional board members, providing a good balance between knowledge, competencies, experience, and availability for a substantial workload. The board members possess global expertise within med-tech & healthcare, strategy, M&A, ESG, innovation, R&D and product develop- ment, IT, software, digital transformation, marketing, commercializa- tion, supply chain, technology & professional services, finance, and change management. See pages 36-38 for a description of the board members’ competencies and experience. The Board of Directors’ annual self-evaluation The Board evaluates on an annual basis the composition, diversity, and competencies of the Board as a whole - as well as each individual board member’s special competencies - to ensure the most optimal perfor- mance of the Board. As part of such evaluation, the Chair of the Board cooperates with each individual member to ensure that the members update and supplement their knowledge of relevant matters with a view to ensure that the members’ special knowledge and qualifications are applied in the best possible manner. In 2024, the Board of Directors performed its annual self-evaluation with the assistance of an external advisor. The Danish Committee on Corporate Governance recommends that companies conduct an exter- nal, objective evaluation at least every three years. The process The evaluation was based on the input from nine Board members and five executives. It encompassed an online questionnaire, a mapping of the Board composition, and various benchmarking to other peer boards as well as a reporting on the results of the evaluation facilitated by the external consultant. The results of the Board evaluation, including practical recommenda- tions for focus areas, was discussed at a board meeting in December 2024 and the Chair was evaluated and provided with feedback by the rest of the Board. General conclusions The Board has a good working relationship and a constructive dialogue with the CEO and management and are empowered to express their thoughts and opinions; Board meetings are conducted in a manner Corporate governance 33/193 GN’s framework for corporate governance General Meeting Board of Directors Board Committees Executive Management Executive Leadership Team The board members of GN are elected at GN’s General Meeting. The Board of Directors has established Audit, Remuneration, Nomi- nation, and Technology & Innovation Committees, and appoints the members of the Executive Management. In addition, GN has es- tablished an Executive Leadership Team. 34/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Content that ensures open, relevant discussions and meaningful participation. The Chair sets the style and tone of the Board to promote open, hon- est, and constructive debate and the relationship between the Chair and the Executive Management is effective. The board members do their homework in advance of meetings based on the materials distrib- uted to them and the Chair encourages active engagement by all board members. The Board has diverse experiences, personal styles, cultural backgrounds, and a good gender balance. The Chair is seen as an inclusive and seasoned professional, well trusted by the manage- ment and with a sincere ambition to do what is right. As part of the general evaluation conclusions, the external advisor pro- vided a number of recommended focus areas, which the Board intends to take into consideration going forward. The Board was recommended to have a continued focus on risk awareness, monitoring, and report- ing, which generally requires increased attention due to macro and ge- opolitical developments. The Board was further recommended to focus on strong succession planning in the new one-company structure and to ensure a timely analysis and assessment of the succession bench for senior manage- ment positions and to ensure that the Remuneration and Nomination Committees continue with a joint focus on this. Another recommended focus area was to ensure that the Board continuously engages in dis- cussions at the right strategic level and engage in deep discussions for the benefit of the strategic board work. In the future, the Board should and will allocate relatively more time to long-term strategic questions and continue building an encouraging and valuable relationship with the (new) management team. The Chair of the Board will account for the process and the general conclusions in his statement at the Annual General Meeting. Additional information on the evaluation process and the general conclusions of the 2024 evaluation may be found on the company’s website: www.gn.com/boardevaluation2024 Board committees As part of the overall governance of the company, the Board has es- tablished Audit, Nomination, Remuneration, and Technology & Innova- tion committees to assist with monitoring and preparatory work relat- ing to key areas of the Board’s responsibilities. The committees’ work in 2024 is summarized below: Audit Committee The Audit Committee continued to provide oversight of the financial reporting process, the audit process, GN’s system of internal controls, and compliance with laws and regulations. The committee reviewed the whistleblower reporting system, material legal cases, main ac- counting principles, tax and compliance, treasury policy and strategy, risk management processes covering key risks, and monitoring of ESG targets and CSRD compliant reporting. Further, the committee consid- ered the need for an internal audit function, which was not deemed necessary at this time. Nomination Committee The Nomination Committee focused on ensuring that Board and Exec- utive Management composition and competencies continue to support GN sufficiently and in line with GN’s strategy and purpose. This in- cludes competencies in relation to GN’s transformation to a one-com- pany structure, extensive succession and recruitment processes to ade- quately plan and prepare talent pipeline for Board and Executive Man- agement positions, while ensuring good culture and sound values as an integral part of all nominations, appointments, and succession plan- ning. The Committee also monitored Board performance and compe- tencies and conducted a thorough Board assessment with external as- sistance. Finally, the current structure and diversity of the Board have been reviewed and found to meet relevant governance requirements. 34/193 Report on Corporate Governance cf. section 107b of the Danish Financial Statements Act The Board and the Executive Management continuously strive to maintain a good corporate governance level. The website of the Committee on Corporate Gov- ernance - Corporategovernance.dk/english – lists its recommended best practice guidelines. GN is required to report on its compliance with these rec- ommendations according to the “comply or explain” prin- ciple. GN’s compliance with the individual recommenda- tions is reviewed once a year by the Board. Download GN’s 2024 Corporate Governance Re- port: www.gn.com/corporategovernance2024 Risk management related to financial reporting is de- scribed in this report on page 32. Internal control systems are described in the above-mentioned Corporate Govern- ance Report. This constitutes GN’s statutory report on corporate governance as required under section 107b of the Danish Financial Statements Act. GN’s Remuneration Policy is available at www.gn.com/remunerationpolicy GN’s Remuneration Report for 2024 is available at: www.gn.com/remuneration2024 35/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Remuneration Committee The Remuneration Committee supervised and reviewed the remuneration policy. It proposed a new design of the GN long-term incentive plan, which was approved at the Annual General Meeting in March 2024. Furthermore, the committee reviewed and approved all long-term incentive grants and set the targets for the 2024 long-term incentive grant. The committee also assisted with the preparation of the Remuneration Report and oversaw the talent development and succession planning process and outcomes. Finally, the committee reviewed the remuneration and incentive plans for the Executive Leadership Team. Technology & Innovation Committee In early 2024, the previous Strategy Committee was renamed to the current Technology & Innovation Committee and its charter was up- dated to reflect a focus to explore long-term potential strategic tech- nology and innovation based opportunities for GN. The Technology & Innovation Committee oversaw a series of portfolio initiatives as well as innovation opportunities cutting across the GN business with an am- bition to explore technological innovations and advancements for GN as a whole. Further, the committee explored the further development of collaboration and synergies between GN’s business entities with special focus on the progress in cross-GN innovation opportunities ena- bled by the one-company R&D organization. See charters and composition of the four committees at: www.gn.com/boardcommittees Simpler governance and legal entity structure As a consequence of GN’s transition into a one-company setup, the board structure was simplified in the beginning of 2024 after which the board members of GN Store Nord A/S no longer also serve as members of the boards of GN Hearing A/S and GN Audio A/S. In September 2024, the legal entities behind these two operating entities were merged and, subsequently, the global legal footprint will be further simplified and reduced by merging legal subsidiary entities across GN to reduce complexity and cost. Remuneration GN pursues a policy of offering the Board of Directors and Executive Management remuneration that is competitive with industry peers and other global companies to retain and attract competent professional leaders of the business and members of the Board of Directors. The ac- tual remuneration is accounted for in GN Remuneration Report 2024. Gender diversity at Board and Leadership levels The percentages as of December 31, 2024, of the underrepresented gender and the set targets for GN’s Board and Leadership are reflected in the table below: Diversity in leadership 2024 2023 1 – Board of Directors Total number - elected by General Meeting / employee elected 6 / 3 4 / 3 Underrepresented gender (%) – (33% is considered balanced) 33 / 33 50 / 33 Target (%) 40 / 40 N/A Target year June 30, 2026 N/A 2 – Senior Leadership* Total number 19 18 Underrepresented gender (%) 26 17 Target (%) 33 25 Target year June 30, 2026 2025 3 – Extended Leadership** Total number 360 341 Underrepresented gender (%) 23 22 Target (%) 30 25 Target year 2030 2025 *) Senior Leadership as defined in section 3(5) of the Danish gender balance act comprises GN’s Executive Management, Executive Leadership Team, and other managers reporting to Executive Management. These managers are formally employed in different GN legal entities but constitute GN’s actual senior leadership. **) Extended Leadership as defined by GN’s job grades (equivalent to Mercer IPE score 56 or above). Note: As referenced in the Sustainability Statement, this table is part of meeting disclo- sure requirement ESRS2 GOV -1 21 (d), related to Board diversity. For actions on promot- ing diversity in GN, please also see chapter on Diversity in Own workforce in the Sustaina- bility statement of this report. Meeting attendance 2024 Board Committees Board Chair Audit Nomi- nation Remune- ration Technology & Innovation Jukka Pekka Pertola (C) 10/10 (C) 9/9 - (M) 12/12 (M) 6/6 (C) 6/6 Klaus Holse (DC) 10/10 (DC) 9/9 (M) 4/4 (M) 12/12 (M*) 2/6 (M) 6/6 Hélène Barnekow (M) 9/10 - - (C) 12/12 (C) 6/6 - Jørgen Bundgaard Hansen (M*) 7/10 - (M*) 3/4 - - - Kim Vejlby Hansen (M*) 7/10 - - - - (M*) 4/6 Anette Weber (M) 10/10 - (C) 4/4 (M*) 6/12 (M*) 4/6 - Leo Larsen (M) 10/10 - - - - (M) 6/6 Cathrin Inge Hansen (M) 10/10 - - - - - Claus Holmbeck- Madsen (M) 10/10 - - - - - (C) Chairman (DC) Deputy Chairman (M) Member * ) Was not a member of the Board or the Committee for the full year. Note: Previously, we reported on board meeting attendance in GN Hearing A/S and GN Audio A/S due to member overlap between these and the GN Store Nord A/S board. As a result of the changed governance structure following one-GN, the board structure changed so subsidiary boards are purely internal boards with no member overlap to the GN Store Nord A/S board. 36/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Jukka Pekka Pertola (Chair) M.Sc. (Electrical Engineering) . Professional board member. Former CEO of Siemens A/S . Chair since 2023 Chair of the Boards of Tryg A/S*, Tryg Forsikring A/S, Cowi Holding A/S, and Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy A/S. Member of the Board of Asetek A/S *. Committee memberships: Technology & Innovation (Chair), Nomina- tion and Remuneration (member); in Tryg A/S: Remuneration (Chair), Nomination (Chair), and IT -Data; in Cowi Holding A/S: Nomination and Remuneration (Chair); in Asetek A/S: Remuneration (Chair). Broad international background with more than 20 years of manage- ment experience in the ICT, energy, industry, infrastructure, and healthcare sectors, solid experience with various business models stretching from B2C to complex project business, IT outsourc ing solu- tions, technology services, and professional services. Board member since 2020 Term 2024/2025 Considered independent Yes Nationality/gender Finnish/male Year of birth 1960 Note: This page is part of the Sustainability Statement on the disclosure of ESRS 2 GOV-1. * Company listed on a regulated market Klaus Holse ( Deputy Chair) M.Sc. (Computer Science) . Professional board member. Former CEO of SimCorp A/S. Deputy Chair since 2023 Chair of the Boards of Danish Industry, Vizrt Group AS, EG A/S, and Su- perOffice AS. Member of the Boards of Macrobond Financial AB, Terma A/S and Zenegy Ap S. CEO, Khaboom ApS. Committee memberships: Audit (member), Nomination (member), and Technology & Innovation (member). Broad international background with more than 20 years of manage- ment experience in the IT and software industry and brings to the company’s Board of Directors a vast experience and insight into the green agenda , ESG/sustainability, and digitalization. Board member since 2023 Term 2024/2025 Considered independent Yes Nationality/gender Danish/male Year of birth 1961 Hélène Barnekow M.Sc. (International Business). Partner, Gaia Leadership. Former CEO, Microsoft Sweden Chair of the Boards of Storytel AB* and Mindler AB. Deputy Chair of the Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the UK. Member of the Board of Handelsbanken AB *. Committee memberships: Nomination (Chair), Remuneration (Chair). Long international experience, mainly in the technology sector and in different C -level positions. Experience ranging from product develop- ment to sales and marketing. Managed significant digital transfor- mations across companies and geographies with focus o n inclusive transformation leadership. Board member since 2013 Term 2024/2025 Considered independent Yes Nationality/gender Swedish/female Year of birth 1964 Board of Directors 37/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Jørgen Bundgaard Hansen B.Sc. Mechanical Engineering; B.Sc. International Commerce . CEO of Gravitas Medical Inc. Member of the Boards of Sterilucent Inc., Siren Care Inc.*, and AdvaMed Accel. Committee memberships: Audit (member) Experienced international leader of large organizations for more than 20 years with a global agenda of growth and major transformation. Has led public, private equity, and venture capital owned companies, primarily within health care in the U.S., E.U., and Asia. Has led transfor- mational turnarounds, change management, and major restructurings. Extensive global expertise within strategy, M&A, sales, marketing, R&D, operations , ESG/sustainability, supply chain, public company leadership , and investor relations as well as private equity and venture capital markets. Board member since 2024 Term 2024/2025 Considered independent Yes Nationality/gender Danish and American/male Year of birth 1967 Note: This page is part of the Sustainability Statement on the disclosure of ESRS 2 GOV-1. * Company listed on a regulated market Kim Vejlby Hansen Civil Engineer (E), Ph.D. CEO at FOSS A/S (including at FOSS Analytical A/S and FOSS af 24. august 1998 ApS) Chair of the Boards of Ibsen Photonics A/S and FOSS Ejendomme SLG A/S; Member of the Boards of SPIO Systems ApS, FOSS Analytical A/S and FOSS af 24. august 1998 ApS. Committee memberships: Technology & Innovation (member). Extensive executive leadership career with globally operating FOSS since 2002 (Vice President R&D, Executive Vice President Business & Product Development, COO and member of Executive Management, and CEO since 2016). Deep expertise within general management, business development, M&A, product development (software, hardware, digital signal pro- cessing, including in hearing aids), quality, service & sales support, pro- duction, procurement, and logistics. Board member since 2024 Term 2024/2025 Considered independent Yes Nationality/gender Danish/male Year of birth 1964 Anette Weber Lic.oec HSG, Finance & Accounting. Group CFO of BUCHERER AG Member of the Supervisory Board of New Work SE. Committee memberships: Audit (Chair) and remuneration (member); New Work SE : Audit (Chair). Extensive global leadership expertise and knowledge from various leadership positions in the global healthcare, IT, and luxury retail in- dustry. In -depth knowledge of finance, digitalization, development, general and change management, ESG/sustainability, platform econo- mies, and M&A . Board member since 2020 Term 2024/2025 Considered independent Yes Nationality/gender German/female Year of birth 1971 Board of Directors 38/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Leo Larsen (Employee elected member) M.Sc. (Electrical Engineering) and a diploma in business administration and international trade. Principal Portfolio Scientist , Research & Explora- tion Board and Committee positions Member of the Board of the GN Store Nord Foundation and of the Technology & Innovation Committee Board member since 2007 Term 2022/2026 Nationality/gender Danish/male Year of birth 1959 Note: This page is part of the Sustainability Statement on the disclosure of ESRS 2 GOV-1. Cathrin Inge Hansen ( Employee elected member) B.Sc. (International Marketing), Graduate Diploma (Business Administration & International Trade), Sr. Regulatory Compliance Strategic Project Manager Board and Committee positions - Board member since 2022 Term 2022/2026 Nationality/gender Danish/female Year of birth 1969 Claus Holmbeck -Madsen (Employee elected member) Academy Foundation Degree (Business). Global Head of Knowledge & Learning, Global Customer Experience Board and Committee positions Member of the Board of the GN Store Nord Foundation Board member since 2022 Term 2022/2026 Nationality/gender Danish/male Year of birth 1968 Board of Directors 39/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Executive Leadership Team Peter Karlstromer Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Member since 2023 Year of birth 1971 Member of Executive Management Peter brings a strong international senior leadership track record, working with multiple aspects of technology around the world. Peter holds a n M.Sc. Management, Business Administration and Eco- nomics, and a M.Sc. Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Lund University. Prior to joining GN , Peter held leadership positions with McKinsey & Company, Cisco Systems, and Securitas Group . Ann Fogelgren Chief Information Officer (CIO) Joined GN in 2020 Christoph Schmid Chief R&D Officer Joined GN in 2021 Anu Kerns Chief People & Communication Officer Joins GN in March 2025 Stefan Bergfors Chief Operations Officer (COO) Joined GN in 2017 Calum MacDougall President Enterprise division Joined GN in 2015 Ehtisham Rabbani President Gaming division Joined GN in 2022 Scott Davis President Hearing division Joined GN in 2019 Trine Finnemann Chief Strategy & Transformation Officer Joined GN in 2019 Søren Jelert Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Member since 2023 Year of birth 1972 Member of Executive Management Søren is an internationally experienced finance professional, who con- tributes with strong financial and business leadership , including ESG/sustainability , building strong teams and solid relationships with investors. Søren graduated with a B.Sc., M.Sc. Management Accounting from Co- penhagen Business School. His career spans operational and finance leadership positions with Maersk Oil & Gas, Novo Nordisk, NNE Phar- maplan, and prior to joining GN as CFO of ALK -Abello. Note: This page is part of the Sustainability Statement on the disclosure of ESRS 2 GOV-1. Read more about our Executive Leadership Team and their backgrounds at www.gn.com/About/Management 40/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content General basis for preparation 41 Sustainability governance 44 Stakeholder engagement 46 Business model 47 Value chain 48 Double materiality assessment 49 Material IROs 52 Contents tables of disclosure requirements 58 Data points that are derived from other EU legislation 60 Sustainability statement General information Content 40/193 With ReSound Nexia and Beltone Serene, customers for the first time were able to en- joy the remote microphone with Auracast. As well as supporting Telecoil, FM systems, and DAI/direct audio input, the new Multi- Mic+ is designed to support users in chal- lenging listening environments, including distances and noisy acoustics. Customer-centric innovation for hearing aid users 41/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content GN’s Sustainability Statement has been prepared in accordance with the Danish Financial Statements Act paragraph 99a, including the un- derlying European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) and Arti- cle 8 of EU Regulation 2020/852 (the Taxonomy Regulation). It covers the environmental, social, and governance topics that are deemed ma- terial for GN and its stakeholders. The process and methodology for conducting a double materiality assessment (DMA) is described on pages 49-51. Consolidation GN’s Sustainability Statement is reported based on the same consolida- tion principles as the financial statements, covering all GN divisions, markets, and global levels. All greenhouse gas (GHG) emission intensity metrics are calculated using group level revenues apart from the en- ergy intensity division for activities in high climate impact sectors which is calculated based on revenue for the Hearing division. Following the materiality assessment and due diligence processes, this Sustainability Statement covers all upstream and downstream value chain activities. Reporting scope and boundaries Information and data disclosed about specific impacts, risks, and oppor- tunities (IROs) may be limited to certain divisions, employee groups, and products based on the outcome of the double materiality assess- ment. Where the ESRS allows for this, GN has made use of phase in and transitional provisions, meaning we do not report on data points that are voluntary on this basis for the reporting year. Key accounting estimates For some environmental metrics we have been required to make esti- mates affecting reported data. For our Scope 3 GHG emission account- ing, we have applied secondary or industry averaged emission factors in certain categories, as well as for the rate of recyclable content of our products and packaging, which are based on a high-level assessment of recyclability of the component materials. To improve data accuracy for these metrics, for Scope 3, we will collect more primary data from our suppliers and, for recyclability, we will conduct more comprehensive assessments by incorporating other factors, such as ease of disassem- bly. Data completeness has been limited for data points calculated us- ing product-level assessments (life cycle assessments (LCAs) or repaira- bility assessments), such as Scope 3 GHG emissions categories 1, 11 and 12, resource inflows and resource outflows: repairability and rate of recyclable content, since we have not conducted assessments for all products. For pollution data, we do not have completeness across our sites so we have estimated using data from sites with similar activities. Some environmental metrics, particularly in Scope 3, have been esti- mated based on ten months of actual data. To improve data complete- ness, we will expand LCA coverage of our portfolio, collect pollution data from more sites and, where material and strategically relevant, in- crease supplier engagement and streamline internal processes to use more full-year data instead. Sources of measurement uncertainty Some of the environmental metrics in this report are subject to meas- urement uncertainty because of the limited availability of primary data, especially where we require data from downstream in the value chain. • Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Scope 3 category 1, related to indirect procurement, and category 2 (capital goods) measure- ments are based on spend data and industry average emission fac- tors • Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Scope 3 category 6 (business travel) measurements include an extrapolation for travel spend in the minority of cases where travel has not been booked through agency partners • Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Scope 3 category 7 (employee commuting) measurements are uncertain because of a lack of data on office occupancy, particularly in 2021 in light of the Covid-19 pandemic • Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Scope 3 category 9 (down- stream transportation and distribution) are uncertain, as we do not have data on the transportation, warehousing, or retailing of our products once they are sold to our distributors • Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Scope 3 category 12 (end-of- life treatment of sold products) measurements are uncertain be- cause of waste treatment type assumptions • For substances of (very high) concern used at our sites, usage quantities at minor sites have been estimated based on larger sites • The rates of recyclable content in our products and packaging were calculated using a recyclability assessment based on material composition, not accounting for ease of sorting or the recycling ca- pabilities where the product is disposed • For resource inflows, due to lack of data, manufacturing waste and tertiary packaging for some products are not included • For the number of people with hearing loss helped, we have made estimates for binaural treatment (i.e., whether users use one or two hearing aids) and replacement rates, as it is not possible to track usage on an end user level For details on the assumptions, approximations and judgements made in the estimation of these metrics, please refer to the accounting poli- cies. General basis for preparation 42/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Overall, all forward-looking information in this report is naturally sub- ject to some level of uncertainty. The product LCAs, which are used to calculate Scope 3 categories 1, 11 and 12, resource inflows, and recyclability have been verified by Bureau Veritas against the relevant ISO standards. Otherwise, no metrics in this report have been validated by an external body other than the as- surance provider. Restatements Based on an increased availability of data that covers more of our prod- uct portfolio and includes more supplier-specific data, as well as changes to the emission factors applied, we have restated the 2021 baseline for GHG emissions in Scopes 1, 2, and 3. Total Scope 1 and 2 (market-based) emissions were restated from 10,507 tCO2eq to 9,831 tCO2eq, decreasing by 6%. Total Scope 3 GHG emissions have been re- stated from 425,547 tCO2eq to 349,006 tCO2eq, a decrease of 18%. For further information on the key changes made to the accounting of our GHG emissions, including restatements, see pages 74-75. Disclosures from other legislations In addition to information prescribed in ESRS, we have disclosed information about the EU Taxonomy Regulation (see page 63-66) and article 99d of the Danish Financial Statements Act (see pages 100-101). Disclosures incorporated by reference Information that is mandatory to disclose as part of the ESRS and has been placed outside of the Sustainability Statement relates to ESRS2 GOV-1 21a- e). Disclosure requirements ESRS2 GOV-1 a), b), c), and e) are included in the management report under “Board of Directors” on pages 36-38. Disclosure requirement ESRS2 GOV-1 d) is included under “Diversity in leadership” on p. 35. All other ESRS-mandatory infor- mation is disclosed in the Sustainability Statement. Content 42/193 43/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Abbreviation glossary Abbreviation Definition CAPA Corrective and Preventive Actions CBECS Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey CCA Climate change adaptation CCM Climate change mitigation CoE Center of Excellence CRM Corporate Risk Management CRT Cobalt reporting templates CSDDD Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive CSRD Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive DACCS Direct air carbon capture and storage DEFRA Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs DEI Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion DMA Double materiality assessment DNSH Do No Significant Harm DPP Digital Product Passport DRC Democratic Republic of the Congo EFRAG European Financial Reporting Advisory Group EHIMA European Hearing Instrument Manufacturers Association ELT Executive Leadership Team eMDRs electronic Medical Device Reporting EPA Environmental Protection Agency ESPR Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation ESRS European Sustainability Reporting Standards EU WEEE Directive Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive FRDM Freedom FSC Forest Stewardship Council GDPR General Data Protection Regulation GHG Greenhouse gas Abbreviation Definition GLEC Global Logistics Emissions Council H&S Health and safety HIPAA Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act HSE Health, Safety, & Environment HVAC Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning IEA International Energy Agency IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change IPE International Position Evaluation IRO Impacts, risk, and opportunity ISCC International Sustainability and Carbon Certification LCA Lifecycle assessment NZE Net-Zero Emissions OECD Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development PC/ABS Polycarbonate-Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene PCB Printed circuit board PIPEDA The Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act PIPL Personal Information Protection Law ppm Parts per million RBA Responsible Business Alliance REACH Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals REC Renewable Energy Certificate RED Radio Equipment Directive RoHS Restriction of Hazardous Substances SBTi Science Based Targets initiative STEPS Stated Policies Scenario TCFD Taskforce for Climate-Related Financial Disclosures TWS True Wireless 44/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Sustainability governance As described in its charter, the Board of Directors’ Audit Committee holds overall responsibility for overseeing the management of ESG-re- lated impacts, risks, and opportunities (IROs), reporting into the Board for related decision-making. Impacts cover areas where GN has a mate- rial impact on people or the environment, risks cover areas where ESG issues pose a material financial risk to GN, and opportunities cover ar- eas where ESG issues present a material financial opportunity to GN. ESG is a quarterly recurring agenda topic in the Audit Committee. To ensure oversight of governance issues, business conduct cases re- ported through GN’s whistleblower hotline, as well as any other gov- ernance-related topic that requires Board oversight, are also presented to the Audit Committee on a quarterly basis. As part of the review and approval of GN’s double materiality assess- ment (see pages 49-51), in the reporting year, the Audit Committee was informed about all identified material IROs as part of approving their materiality, as well as the approach to implementation of due dili- gence, and results and effectiveness of policies, actions, metrics, and targets that form the basis of the reporting scope of this report. Aside from overseeing the identification of material IROs as part of compli- ance with reporting requirements, the Board also oversees the imple- mentation of managing material IROs where these have an impact on the company strategy or relate to matters of risk and compliance. For an overview of the composition and diversity of the members of GN’s administrative, management, and supervisory bodies, see pages 36-38. To ensure appropriate skills and expertise in sustainability, ESG is part of the Board’s annual self-evaluation process. Sustainability-re- lated skills and expertise related to our material IROs are currently as- sessed to be sufficient across the Board, but if this changes, it will be included in Board training or as a requirement in the recruitment of new members. Unless a specific element of IRO management requires a separate pro- ject or program governance to drive progress, all decisions related to ESG are taken within the existing governance and decision-making bodies. This reflects that ESG is integrated into existing business pro- cesses where possible, rather than treating it as a separate topic. Ac- cordingly, GN does not have a separate ESG or sustainability commit- tee. The leaders of GN’s business divisions and functions of scale together with the CEO and the CFO constitute the Executive Leadership Team (ELT). The ELT is responsible for monitoring, managing, and overseeing the implementation of policies, actions, and targets related to effective management of IROs. Group Sustainability, reporting directly to the CFO, holds overall responsibility for supporting the business in IRO management, sustainability strategy development, and ESG reporting. To ensure required progress on an operational level, ESG is discussed on at least a quarterly basis in the management teams of all divisions and functions of scale. In terms of ESG-related target setting, long-term strategic targets such as climate targets, are developed by management with support from key functions and approved by the Board through existing decision- making mechanisms. Sustainability-related performance in incentive schemes As stipulated in our Remuneration Policy and reported in remuneration reports, annual ESG-related bonus objectives are discussed and ap- proved by the Remuneration Committee, where the Remuneration Committee is tasked to ensure ESG bonus objectives are aligned with the management of the most material ESG issues as part of the Board of Directors’ wider oversight of ESG topics. Progress on these targets is continuously monitored by subject matter experts in the business and discussed quarterly in ELT meetings. As stipulated in GN’s Remuneration Policy, ESG-related performance is part of (annual) short-term incentive (bonus) objectives for all mem- bers of the Executive Leadership Team. This supports progress on poli- cies, targets, and actions in mitigating our material IROs across several environmental and social topics. For the year 2024, these objectives consisted of one overall objective related to reducing carbon emissions across all scopes versus 2023 in support of making progress towards our 2030 climate targets, and 10 key actions related to decarbonization in specific areas, increasing cir- cularity, ESG-related supplier engagement, sustainability-related mar- keting and CSRD compliance. All members of the ELT have separate targets related to Diversity, Eq- uity, and Inclusion (DEI), focusing on initiatives aimed to increase repre- sentation of women in Senior Leadership roles across GN (see page 92). Where this is required, these objectives are cascaded down into the monetary short-term incentive objectives on an operational level across relevant divisions and functions. ESG-related objectives for the CEO and CFO are approved annually by the Remuneration Committee. In the reporting year, 7.2% of the an- nual bonus was dependent on these objectives for the CEO and CFO with 12% of their annual bonus was linked to ESG, of which 50% was related to reduction of carbon emissions. Sustainability reporting risk management and internal controls Our sustainability reporting is integrated into the annual reporting pro- cess, which has a well-established process for internal approval, con- trols, and external assurance. ESG data is subject to internal control- ling through a dedicated ESG control function in our finance organiza- tion. As 2024 is the first year of CSRD reporting, the control environ- ment is less mature than in financial reporting. Sustainability governance 45/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Using a risk methodology where we considered likelihood and impact of a risk materializing, we established that the main risks associated with our sustainability reporting relate to the accuracy and complete- ness of data, especially where ESG data is derived from financial data, dependent on input from suppliers, or based on estimates. To reduce these risks, we use third-party verified data: • For ESG data derived from financial data, all financial input data used are sourced from data subject to external assurance • Where we are dependent on supplier input data, such as for lifecy- cle assessments (LCAs), where this is possible, we use third-party standards and systems, such as EcoVadis • Where we use estimates, we base these on widely used third-party datasets, such as EcoInvent for carbon emission factors Metrics reported in this report which are partly based on estimates are a result of Management's best estimate. Our due diligence approach is the process in which GN identifies, pre- vents, mitigates and addresses the actual and potential negative im- pacts on the environment and people (see S2 Workers in the value chain, pages 95-98) and is aligned with the OECD Guidelines. For an overview of our due diligence initiatives and supply chain engagement, the table below captures the core elements from embedding the pro- cess in strategy and business model to engagement with affected stakeholders, as well as our ability to identify adverse impacts and the key actions in this area, including how we track effectiveness of any ef- forts we take. Sustainability due diligence Core elements of due diligence Paragraphs in the Sustainability Statement a) Embedding due diligence in governance, strategy , and business model ESRS 2 GOV-2 Information provided to, and sustainability matters addressed by the undertaking’s administrative, management, and supervisory bodies ESRS 2 GOV-3 Sustainability-related performance in incentive schemes ESRS 2 SBM-3 Material impacts, risks, and opportunities and how they interact with its strategy and business model b) Engaging with affected stakeholders in all key steps of the due diligence ESRS 2 GOV-2 Information provided to, and sustainability matters addressed by the undertaking’s administrative, management, and supervisory bodies ESRS 2 SBM-2 Interests and views of stakeholders ESRS 2 IRO-1 Process to identify and assess material impacts, risks, and opportunities MDR-P Policies adopted to manage material sustainability matters c) Identifying and assessing adverse impacts ESRS 2 IRO-1 Process to identify and assess material impacts, risks, and opportunities ESRS 2 SBM-3 Material impacts, risks, and opportunities and how they interact with its strategy and business model S1-1 Policies related to own workforce S2-2 Processes for engaging with value chain workers about impacts S2-4 Taking action on material impacts on value chain workers, and approaches to managing material risks related to value chain workers, and effective- ness of those actions d) Taking actions to address those adverse impacts MDR-A Actions and resources in relation to material sustainability matters S1-1 Policies related to own workforce S2-2 Processes for engaging with value chain workers about impacts S2-4 Taking action on material impacts on value chain workers, and approaches to managing material risks related to value chain workers, and effective- ness of those actions e) Tracking the effectiveness of these efforts and com- municating MDR-M Metrics in relation to material sustainability matters MDR-T Tracking effectiveness of policies and actions through targets E2-3 Targets related to pollution S2-5 Targets related to managing material negative impacts, advancing positive impacts, and managing material risks 46/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content We are in continuous dialogue with our stakeholders to ensure we un- derstand their requirements and find ways to work in partnership to strengthen our business and the societies in which we operate. This chapter covers who we consider our key stakeholders. Views of stake- holders related to sustainability are shared with Executive Manage- ment and the Board of Directors as part of overall sustainability gov- ernance (see pages 44-45). Customers Customer-centricity is a key pillar of our strategy, which is why we con- tinuously proactively engage with customers to understand their needs. Customer engagement takes place through direct dialogues, customer councils, and surveys. Views of customers are integrated into the development of our strategy and in the design of our products and services. ESG topics are integrated into customer dialogues, so that we can support customers in achieving their ESG objectives such as sus- tainable procurement or decarbonization targets. ESG is also inte- grated in customer dialogues as part of assessing potential upstream impacts and risks. Employees To ensure the well-being of our employees and maintain a diverse, en- gaged, and passionate workforce, employee engagement takes place on an ongoing basis through several channels: biannual professional and personal development dialogues, employee surveys, and employee groups representing specific demographics and their allies. Employees are also represented in the Board of Directors through the employee- elected board members. Employees can raise concerns confidentially through GN’s whistleblower hotline or regular HR channels. Views of employees collected through these channels are integrated in strategy development, policy creations, adjustments, and other decision-making on a continuous basis. Where necessary, specific initiatives are devel- oped to ensure employee well-being. Employees are informed about ESG topics regularly through internal communication channels, which also allow for engagement on topics communicated. Investors It is GN’s investor relations and communication policy to have an open and active dialogue with our existing shareholders, potential share- holders, other investors, financial analysts, and the media. GN ensures that relevant information is provided to the financial community in a timely manner to ensure that the GN share is fairly priced. This is done in the form of company announcements, press releases, investor meet- ings, conferences, and presentations of GN’s interim and annual finan- cial results. Following the release of interim and annual financial results, GN hosts roadshows where the Executive Management and the investor rela- tions team inform shareholders, other investors, and financial analysts about the recent developments in GN. Moreover, when relevant, GN maintains a good dialogue with proxy ad- visors and other external advisors ahead of the Annual General Meet- ing. As a public company, GN discloses ESG data in relevant areas via our integrated annual report, our Annual General Meeting, and where rele- vant on request to ESG rating agencies and investors. To ensure our ESG disclosures always meet investor requirements, we welcome dia- logue with our investors on ESG topics at any time. In 2024, we contin- ued to make ESG a prominent part of our proactive communication with investors. Regulatory authorities In support of our policy objective to proactively comply with all ESG legislation, GN assesses relevant regulations on an ongoing basis to en- sure we comply with all relevant legislation, and where needed engage directly with policy makers to fully understand the implications of spe- cific legislation for GN. We only engage policy makers on the shaping of future legislation through industry associations such as EHIMA, Dan- ish Industry, and the Responsible Business Alliance, in line with their policy positions. New legislation is emerging in the area of product sus- tainability, including further chemical restrictions, right to repair, and battery legislation. On a corporate level, aside from CSRD, we closely monitor legislation in the area of ESG due diligence (CSDDD) and hu- man rights-related laws across many different geographies. Where necessary we adjust our strategy, product, and service offerings to comply with legislation. Suppliers We engage with suppliers on an ongoing basis as part of regular busi- ness processes. We expect our suppliers to uphold the standards set out in our Supplier Code of Conduct and several supporting policies, employing a variety of tools to ensure compliance. Supplier ESG per- formance, based on their EcoVadis score and decarbonization maturity, is integrated into overall supplier performance and preference assess- ments. Where this is strategically relevant, we work in partnership with our suppliers to achieve joint business and ESG objectives. Industry and ESG associations GN is a member of several industry and ESG-related associations, for the purpose of demonstrating commitment to jointly developed stand- ards and policy positions, engaging with industry peers on industry- spanning issues, tracking legislation and engaging with policy makers through representatives of these organizations. Stakeholder engagement 47/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Content GN operates an asset light business model with a global value chain and is committed to consistently create value to all stakeholders GN develops, manufactures, and markets innovative hearing aids for people with hearing loss; headsets, speakerphones, and video equip- ment for collaboration at work; and a broad range of gaming gear. Our business model relies on customer-centric innovation, strong eco- system and channel partnerships, agile and scalable operations, global reach, and engaged and competent employees as our key resources. We strive to maintain and further develop these key resources, provid- ing benefits to our customers, investors, and other stakeholders. See “Unfolding GN’s value potential” on pages 7-15 for more details. There is no difference between specific markets, product categories, customers or end user when it comes to their relevance to our overall sustainability agenda, except for product safety, which only meets our materiality threshold for reporting for our hearing aids. In terms of ge- ographies, some issues related to workers in our value chain are more relevant to specific regions. Employee headcount by geographical area Region # employees Africa 7 Asia & Pacific 3,390 Europe 2,939 Middle East 21 North America 1,697 South/Latin America 91 Business model 47/193 Value created Our customers and partners Creating products, services, and experiences that thrill customers and partners. Our people Providing a great, safe, and rewarding place to work with equal op- portunity for all. Our world and environment Pursuing responsible and inclusive business practices. Designing en- vironmentally conscious products, services, and operations. Our investors Delivering shareholder value by executing on the company strat- egy. HCP ESG impacts across our value chain Environmental and social impacts of raw material and mineral sourcing Environmental impacts of energy generation across our value chain Social impacts of working conditions and equal treatment across our value chain Environmental impact of transportation and distribution Environmental impact of product use Environmental impacts of end-of- life and e-waste, positive environmental impact of circularity Positive social impact of our products Key resources Engaged and focused people Partnerships and ecosystems Global reach, local presence Innovation and intellectual property 48/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Owned and outsourced hearing aid retail Processing of raw materials: Smelting, refining, petrochemicals, paper milling Raw material extraction: Mining, forestry, fossil fuel extraction Own operations Outsourced product manufacturing (Enterprise, Gaming & Consumer) Hearing aid (re)manufacturing Distribution Hearing aid users Repair center Product disposal Major recycling waste streams Return for remanufacturing Upstream Downstream Knowledge and frontline workers Gamers and consumers E-waste treatment Hearing aid component manufacturing Freight: Air, ocean, rail, and road transport Outsourced manufacturing: Components , packaging (Enterprise, Gaming & Consumer) GN offices : Product development, sales and marketing, back - office functions Hearing aid final assembly Outsourced final assembly Product repair Key activities in our own operations as well as upstream and downstream value chain The below graphic gives a high-level representation of GN’s value chain and the key activities, flows, and users upstream, downstream, and in our own operations. Value chain 49/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Methodology In 2023, we commenced our double materiality process, in accordance with the process set out in ESRS 1, which covers general requirements for reporting in accordance with CSRD. We mapped our value chain and identified the industries on which we depend across our value chain. Next, we identified impacts, risks, and opportunities (IROs) across our full value chain for all ESG sub-topics and sub-sub-topics contained in Appendix A of ESRS 1. To assess the materiality of different IROs and topics, we developed a scoring key from 0-5 for both impact and risk materiality and set a materiality threshold at 2 or above for materiality and 3 or above for highly material topics, where 2 represented low scale, concentrated scope, remediable with some effort and a low like- lihood, while a 3 represented medium across the same variables. Through this process we assessed 31% of topics to be highly material and 21% of topics to be material for our own operations, and 45% of topics to be highly material and 35% of topics to be materials for our value chain. In 2024, we finalized our double materiality process through the fol- lowing steps: • We made updates to IROs and scoring based on further inputs from stakeholders and additional guidance from EFRAG • We set the reporting threshold at 3 or higher to focus reporting on the most material topics We then mapped disclosure requirements and data points against ma- terial IROs to determine the contents of this Sustainability Statement, taking into account the specificity of IROs where needed to scope out data points where the IROs are limited to for example specific parts of our value chain, employee groups, or geographies. We applied three analytical approaches in our double materiality pro- cess: • Desk research: we consulted 40 reports from NGOs, governments, and key suppliers • Internal workshops: we held five internal workshops with 27 sub- ject matter experts • External stakeholder interviews: we interviewed eight external stakeholders, constituting both readers of the report and impacted stakeholders. We selected external stakeholders based on the ar- eas where we lacked visibility through our existing stakeholder en- gagement mechanisms: pollution, resource outflows, and human rights impacts far down our supply chain We assumed our impacts and risks to be similar to industry averages in cases where we lacked clear data or were unable to allocate impacts prevalent to GN in our value chain. Our double materiality assessment was subject to ongoing review by senior management. It was formally approved by the Audit Committee in August 2024. Identification and assessment of impacts In scoring impacts, we gave equal weight to the three factors constitut- ing severity combined (scale, scope, and irremediable character), and likelihood, prioritizing negative impacts based on their relative severity and likelihood. Own operations and value chain For impacts in our own operations, we assessed ESG impacts related to our assets, and core activities: hearing aid component assembly in Den- mark, manufacturing of hearing aids in China and Malaysia, final as- sembly of hearing aids in regional operational centers, R&D and prod- uct testing, sales and external collaboration, and white-collar back-of- fice functions for all GN divisions. We also considered secondary activi- ties in support of these core activities. For our value chain impacts, we prioritized assessing six value chain in- dustries on which GN’s business model depends which have heightened risk of adverse ESG impacts: mining, plastic and aluminum production, paper production, freight and business travel, electronics manufactur- ing, and e-waste treatment. Environmental sub-topics For pollution, biodiversity, and water-related sub-topics, we used geo- graphical impact and industry reports in our assessment. This enabled us to understand the material impacts of our own sites, the location of our suppliers and sub-suppliers across our value chain on the surround- ing ecosystem and communities, as well as the degree to which we de- pend on the local ecosystem for our business model. This process led to several sub-topics in the area of pollution to be considered material to GN from an impact perspective, whereas all sub-topics related to bi- odiversity and water were considered not material from an impact per- spective. We also used the above sources to assess the materiality of sub-topics related to resource use and circular economy, as impacts in this area are ultimately also linked to impacts on nature through pollution, wa- ter impacts, or biodiversity loss. In addition, for resource use and circu- lar economy, we specifically scored the (potential) impacts of our busi- ness model in terms of the circularity and sustainability of resource Double materiality assessment 50/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content inflows (i.e. the materials we use in our products and packaging), re- source outflows (i.e. to what extent our products and services are set up to enable circularity), and waste caused by our business model. This process led to several sub-topics in this area to be considered material to GN from an impact perspective. For environmental sub-topics related to pollution, biodiversity, and wa- ter, we assessed to what extent our current business model depends on substances of (very high) concern, activities that cause biodiversity loss or significant water consumption, and whether this dependence could have significant financial implications. This process led to none of these sub-topics to be considered material to GN from a financial risk perspective. For environmental sub-topics related to resource use and circular economy, we assessed to what extent our current business model de- pends on a non-circular economy, in terms of a dependence on the use of virgin material, as well as customer demands for products that are not aligned with the requirements of a circular economy. This process led to several sub-topics in the area of resource outflows to be consid- ered material to GN from a financial risk perspective. For all environmental topics, we also considered whether any material opportunities exist. Ultimately, as our core activities do not relate to solving environmental impacts, and our sustainability efforts are aimed at minimizing our environmental impacts, we did not identify any op- portunities within environmental topics that met our materiality threshold. Identification and assessment of financial risks and opportunity To assess the materiality of IROs in terms of financial risks or opportu- nities, we used the same prioritization in terms of value chain industries and economic activities in our own operations as impact scoring. We used our existing enterprise risk management mechanism to score risks on a 0-5 scale, meaning we gave equal weight to likelihood and two factors constituting magnitude combined: revenue impact and reputa- tional risk. For revenue impact, we used the same thresholds as for other risks to score risks between minor and critical, thereby giving equal weight to sustainability-related risks as to other risks. Our double materiality process is aligned with our enterprise risk man- agement and overall business strategy processes, as we use the in- sights gathered in the double materiality assessment to improve our assessment of the relative financial risk materiality of ESG topics to in- form business decisions related to risk mitigation in accordance with the overall enterprise risk management process. For opportunities, we apply the same process where instead of financial risk we assess the relative financial upside. Identification and assessment of climate change related IROs At GN, the risk management process continuously identifies new busi- ness risks. Our risk management process is described on page 29, and includes processes related to defining and managing ESG risks, as well as climate-related risks. Impact GN has a material impact on climate change through the emission of GHGs from activities in our own operations and in our value chain. For a quantification of this impact, refer to our GHG accounting under ESRS E1-6 on pages 74-75. While we have identified several climate-re- lated physical and transition risks to our business, we do not assess any of these to be material from a financial perspective. None of our assets or business activities are considered incompatible with or need signifi- cant efforts to be compatible with a transition to a climate-neutral economy, for example due to significant locked-in GHG emissions or the requirements for alignment to the EU Taxonomy requirements. Risks and opportunities Risks and opportunities have been assessed by looking at our impacts in terms of financial loss or gain and reputational damage or gain. The assessment used our product life cycle assessments (LCA), corporate GHG accounting and publicly available tools, such as the WWF Water Risk Filter and climate impact projections from IPCC AR6. We also looked at historical incidence of extreme weather events and conse- quent disruption in own operations and supply chain as well as cost variability, and expected changes to, for example, carbon taxes placed on GN goods. Physical and transition risks We applied different climate scenario analysis over the short, medium and long term to identify and assess climate-related acute and chronic physical risks, such as extreme weather events, heat and water stress and sea level rise, as well as transition risks, such as carbon pricing, reg- ulatory change, changing customer behavior, and availability of materi- als. For climate-related physical risks, geolocations data for our facili- ties and those of our suppliers was used to assess relevant risks. A high-level qualitative assessment was carried out using the RCP8.5, IEA Net-Zero Emissions by 2050 Scenario (NZE) and IEA STEPS scenar- ios. The RCP8.5 scenario gives us the likely upper end of risk exposure of the business to climate-related hazards in the future. Here, the Shared Socioeconomic Pathway 3 was chosen to reflect recent trends in international affairs. The IEA's new Net Zero Roadmap report and IE- A's NZE and STEPS scenario were applied to identify and assess cli- mate-related transition risks and opportunities that GN may face in the future if the world pursues a path to net-zero emissions by 2050 or if climate action is less aggressive and policymaking is assumed to re- main as today. 51/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content For the scenario analysis, we assumed that GN’s core business activi- ties and operating model do not change and that our major production facilities remain as they were at the time of the assessment. We also assumed that the supplier base and sales distribution broadly remain as they were at the time of assessing the risks. Going forward, we will prioritize the most significant risks and opportunities we have identi- fied, using more quantitative analysis, also taking into account any changes to our operating model and locations of our major production facilities. GN broadly aligns time horizons for ESG-related risk assessment with that of the Corporate Risk Management (CRM) process, which apply a 1-to-3-year horizon (0 to 1 years for short-term and 2 to 3 years for me- dium-term). While our short-term time horizon is aligned with that of the ESRS-defined time horizons, the medium- and long-term time hori- zons deviate slightly. The main reason for this is to align with the exist- ing CRM process. In the context of both climate-related physical and transition risks, the 1-to-3-year horizon is part of the CRM process, whereas longer term climate-related risks are considered only as part of the double materiality process, as well as in conjunction with the scenario analysis, where we have defined a 10-30 year long-term time horizon. From the scenario analysis, we assessed GN’s exposure to cli- mate-related hazards and transition events in our own operations and across the value chain. A large proportion of GN components and products are manufactured across China and South-East Asia, which are areas exposed to extreme weather events, particularly floods and tropical storms, but also sea- level rise. Climate change impacts in certain parts of our supply chain could potentially lead to business interruption before production is fully restored with, in certain cases, limited ability for other regions to pick up the demand. For example, global production of semiconduc- tors (an important component in most GN products) is concentrated in Taiwan, South Korea, and the U.S. Regarding events related to the transition to a net-zero economy, we expect regulation and customer behavior to shift in favor of lower carbon goods and services, especially as we see wider adoption of green public procurement principles among our B2B customers, but we still expect other non-climate-re- lated factors to retain a strong influence on purchasing behavior. 51/193 52/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content ESRS topics IRO type IRO title IRO description E1 - Climate change mitigation I N A GN Scope 1 and 2 emissions Part of our operations run on fossil fuels, resulting in both Scope 1 and 2 emissions with negative impacts on the environment. E1 - Climate change mitigation I N A VC Scope 3 emissions A majority of our value chain run s on fossil fuels, resulting in high value chain emissions (Scope 3) with nega- tive impacts on the environment. E1 - Energy I N A Both Reliance on fossil fuels The majority of energy used in our value chain is from fossil fuels, as well as some energy used in our own op- erations. This results in negative impacts on the environment. E2 - Pollution of air, water, and soil I N PT VC Pollution to water, soil , and food Industries such as manufacturing, mining, fossil fuel extraction, paper , and e-waste have the potential to lead to negative impacts in terms of pollution of water, soil, and food. E2 - Substances of concern (and very high concern) I N A Both Use of substances of (very high) concern Substances of (very high) concern are used by both by GN during manufacturing and by value chain industries such as mining and component manufacturing. This can lead to damage to the environment and human health E5 - Resource inflows I N A Both Use of virgin and non- renewable resources GN products contain a wide variety of materials from virgin and non -renewable resources, impacting the need to extract ever more finite resources. E5 - Resource outflows I/R N A Both Non -circular products Where GN products are disposed without recovery and reuse of valuable materials, this negatively impacts the environment as it requires further use of raw materials instead. It also poses a risk of reputational damages and increasing operating costs related to not meeting customer demands of more circular solutions. S1 - Working conditions: Working time I N PT GN Excessive overtime in own operations Blue -collar employees can be exposed to excessive overtime, which potentially leads to negative impacts on employee health, well-being, and safety. S1 - Working conditions: Adequate wages I N PT GN Non -decent wages in own operations While GN pays all employees a minimum wage, this may not represent an adequate wage and can lead to poorer quality of life for affected employees. S1 - Working conditions: Health & safety I N PT GN Inadequate protections of health and safety in own operations Health and safety incidents occurring at major GN's manufacturing sites in China and Malaysia can negatively impact employee health, well -being, and safety. S1 - Equal treatment and opportunities: Equal pay I N PT GN Pay inequality in own operations While GN has in place processes for equal remuneration, both white and blue -collar workers can be potentially impacted by not receiving equal pay for equal work. S1 - Equal treatment and opportunities: Harassment I N PT GN Discrimination and har- assment in the work- place in own operations Where inadequate protections and grievance mechanisms are not provided or do not function effectively in the workplace, this can potentially impact employee well -being. S1 - Equal treatment and opportunities: Diversity I N PT GN Diversity issues in the workplace in own operations GN promotes and takes action to increase diversity in the workplace, but a potential lack of diversity in man- agement could lead to negative impacts for the underrepresented gender in being offered career opportuni- ties. S2 - Working conditions: Working time I N PT VC Excessive overtime in the value chain Some industries in GN's value chain, including mining, manufacturing, retail and logistics, have links with ex- cessive overtime, which can lead to negative impacts for value chain workers in terms of health and well-being. S2 - Working conditions: Health & safety I N PT VC Inadequate protections of health and safety in the value chain Mining industries are linked to severe impacts to health and safety of value chain workers. It is also common for other industries, such as manufacturing, logistics and e -waste, to be linked with negative impacts on health and safety. I = Impact R = Risk O = Opportunity P = Positive Impact N = Negative Impact A = Actual Impact PT = Potential Impact GN = Own Operations VC = Value Chain Both = Own Operations and Value Chain Impacts, risks, and opportunities (IROs) Our double materiality assessment identified 29 material IROs across seven topical standards. Our IROs consist of 21 impacts and 6 risks, as well as 2 additional IROs with both an impact and a risk attached. The IROs are spread across 19 ESG topics depicted in the infographic on the next page (see topical chapters for information on IROs per ESG topic). All IROs are covered by ESRS disclosure requirements, except for the positive impact related to helping people with hearing loss, which is en- tity specific. As this is our first year reporting based on IROs, there are no changes compared to previous reporting periods. Overall, like any other risk, our risks are integrated in our strategy and business model through enterprise risk management processes, whereas managing our impacts is anchored in compliance with rele- vant legislation, as well as integration of additional policies, actions, and targets of our strategy and our business model where managing the impact requires additional efforts. We have assessed the time horizon for impacts to be the strategy pe- riod until 2028, as we lack clarity beyond that to accurately assess the materiality of impacts. Through a high-level resilience analysis in which we assessed the implications of these IROs on the overall sustainability of our business for the same period, we assess that the nature and se- verity of our IROs do not require us to alter our strategy and business model at a scale and pace beyond our capacity to adjust if required. As described in more detail on the next page, we assess that generally we can manage IROs through policies, targets, and actions that fit within the context of our existing business model and strategy. Material IROs 53/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Environmental Climate-related IROs We have identified three actual, negative impacts related to climate. Even though we have also identified climate-related risks in accordance with the recommendations of the Taskforce for Climate-Related Finan- cial Disclosures (TCFD), across other topics and integrated with non- ESG risks to the business, these were not assessed to be material in ac- cordance with the threshold applied in our double materiality assess- ment (see pages 49-51). We have identified one actual, negative impact for our own operations (Scopes 1 and 2) and one specific to our value chain (Scope 3), related to the negative effects on climate change as a consequence of carbon emissions caused by every aspect of our core activity and value chain activities we depend on. We have identified one further actual, negative impact for our own op- erations and value chain, related to the consumption of fossil fuel en- ergy. We respond to these impacts through our climate transition plan, which is integrated into our wider strategy. See pages 67-71 for further detail on the management of these impacts. Pollution-related IROs We have identified two negative impacts related to pollution. These are all specific to our core activity of manufacturing electronic devices. Whereas we do not consider the scale of the pollution impact of our activities to be high, producing our products requires the use of sub- stances that can have polluting effects on the environment and through that on human health. ESRS topics IRO type IRO title IRO description S2 - Working conditions: Secure employment I N PT VC Non -adequate housing in the value chain Some industries in GN's value chain have links with insecure employment arrangements for value chain work- ers, potentially impacting access to housing, well-being and safety. S2 - Equal treatment and opportunities: Violence, harassment, gender equal- ity and diversity I N PT VC Discrimination and har- assment in the work- place in the value chain Some industries in GN's value chain operate in countries with inadequate legal protections against violence and harassment, which can negatively impact the health and well -being of value chain workers. S2 - Working conditions: Freedom of association, collective bargaining and social dialogue I N PT VC Inadequate protections of freedom of associa- tion and workers' rights in the value chain Some industries in GN's value chain operate in countries with inadequate protections of workers' rights. This can negatively impact workers where rights, such as freedom of association, collective bargaining , and social dialogue are not provided . S2 - Working conditions: Work -life balance I N PT VC Non -respect of family leave and work -life bal- ance in the value chain Some industries in GN's value chain operate in countries where rights related to adequate work -life balance and parental leave are not provided, which can negatively impact the health and well -being of workers in the value chain. S2 - Working conditions: Adequate wages I N PT VC Non -decent wages in the value chain Most industries in GN's value chain pay workers at least a minimum wage, while some value chain industries may even pay workers below a minimum wage. In all cases, where this does not represent an adequate wage, it can negatively impact the health and well-being of value chain workers. S2 - Working conditions: Diversity I N PT VC Diversity issues in the workplace in the value chain Some companies in GN's value chain may not be promoting diversity or taking proactive actions to increase diversity of the workforce. This can negatively impact marginalized groups, such as migrant workers . S2 - Other worker related rights: Child labor and forced labor I/R N PT VC Child and forced labor in the value chain Some industries in GN's value chain, such as mining and manufacturing, are linked to negative impacts of both child labor and other forms of forced labor. Where companies in GN's direct supply chain are linked to this, there are significant risks to earnings due to trade compliance, including fines and reputational damages S4 - Information related: Privacy R - - Both Data breach risk and loss of customer information There are risks of reputational damages and large fines where GN is exposed to cyber attacks and theft of highly sensitive customer data (e.g. health records). S4 - Personal safety: Health & safety R - - VC Violation of health and safety standards Failure to meet health and safety product standards, particularly for hearing aids, can lead to increased risks of product recalls, reputational damage, and legal costs that result in a large financial impact. G1 - Culture R - - GN Breach of code of ethics and local laws There is a risk in some of GN's operations that employees do not follow codes of conduct and business ethics leading to high reputational damage and financial loss. G1 - Whistleblowers R - - GN Failure to protect whis- tleblowers Where GN is not able to detect or adequately deal with a specific case, as well as cases of retaliation towards a whistleblower, there is a risk of reputational damage and large fines from authorities. G1 - Third party relations: Relationships R - - GN Risk of poor manage- ment of supplier rela- tionships If GN is found to be doing business with a disreputable company it could have knock-on risks of reputational damage to GN, resulting in loss of revenue . G1 - Corruption and bribery R - - GN Reputation damages of corruption and bribery If GN is found to have committed acts of corruption and/or bribery, there are risks in terms of reputational damages, as well as fines from authorities. Entity -specific - Hearing health I P A VC Better hearing for mil- lions of end-users GN has a positive impact on society in terms of the capacity to offer millions of end -users with the opportunity of better hearing, which in turn has a number of positive social and health benefits. I = Impact R = Risk O = Opportunity P = Positive Impact N = Negative Impact A = Actual Impact PT = Potential Impact GN = Own Operations VC = Value Chain Both = Own Operations and Value Chain 54/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Content Within our own operations, we have identified one material negative, actual impact, which relates to the use of substances of concern and very high concern as part of our production process. These substances are used in our test labs and manufacturing facilities for a variety of purposes. We have identified the same material impact for our upstream value chain, where these substances are used for the manufacturing of com- ponents or finalized products purchased by GN. Within our value chain, we have identified one further potential nega- tive impact related to the pollution of water, soil, and food. Upstream, these impacts are related to manufacturing, mining, and fossil fuel extraction, and downstream with e-waste. In response to these impacts, we have a system to prevent and control the use of these substances in our own operations so that we comply with all relevant legislation in this area, while we anchor this requirement to our suppliers through our due diligence processes based on our code of conduct. Beyond this, these impacts do not have a significant impact on our business model and strategy. See pages 77- 79 for further details on how we manage the impacts of these impacts. Resource use and circular economy-related IROs We have identified two material IROs related to resource use and circu- lar economy. These IROs are a consequence of our core activity of manufacturing electronic devices requiring the use of finite and scarce materials, as well as e-waste because of non-circular processing of our products after use. They originate in our strategy of offering premium products at the cutting edge of technology, which often requires driv- ing efficiencies to achieve competitive prices, through a go-to-market business model which depends on sale of products through a wide vari- ety of channels. 54/193 Impact material Double material Non-material Financial material Financial impact on GN GN impact on people and environment Social S1 Own workforce Adequate wages, working time and health & safety Equal pay Diversity Other work-related rights S2 Workers in the value chain Secure employment, working time, social dialogue, ade- quate wages, freedom of association, collective bargaining, health & safety Gender equality, violence & harassment and diversity Child labor Forced labor Other work-related rights S3 Affected communities Economic, social, and cultural rights Civil and political rights Particular rights of indigenous people S4 Consumers and end-users Information related impacts Personal safety Social inclusion Governance G1 Business conduct Corporate culture Whistleblowers Corruption and bribery Management of relationships with suppliers Animal welfare Political engagement Environmental E1 Climate Climate change mitigation Energy Climate change adaptation E2 Pollution Substance of (very high) concern Pollution of air, water, soil and food Microplastics E3 Water and marine resources Water Marine resources E4 Biodiversity and ecosystems Direct impact drivers of biodiversity loss State of species Dependencies on ecosystem services E5 Resource use and circular economy Resource inflows Resource outflows Waste 19 18 15 16 17 33 32 31 30 28 27 13 22 7 6 16 19 20 21 17 1 4 5 2 15 12 35 30 33 32 31 34 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 21 20 22 13 12 14 10 11 9 7 8 4 5 6 3 1 2 3 8 9 10 35 34 29 26 25 24 23 18 14 11 55/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content With regards to resource inflows, we have identified one material neg- ative, actual impact in our own operations related to our use of a vari- ety of metals, plastics, electrical components, and packaging at our manufacturing sites that are made primarily from virgin materials re- sulting in the need to extract finite resources. We have identified the same material negative impacts for our up- stream value chain, where our suppliers that are part of the manufac- turing of components, full products, or packaging use virgin raw mate- rials and resources to create metals, plastics, electrical components, paper, and cardboard. With regards to resource outflows, we have identified one material, ac- tual negative impact in our own operations, related to the share of GN's products not being designed to be repaired, refurbished or recy- cled, or covered by a service that enables the product to be returned for sustainable processing. Attached to this impact, we have also iden- tified one material risk related to GN’s hypothetical failure to adjust its business model to meet customer demands for circular products and services, such as repairable devices or takeback services. If GN cannot adapt it may also lead to reputational damage and increased operating costs. To manage these IROs, we have set policies, targets, and actions to re- duce our dependence on virgin material, as well as include circularity considerations in product design and the services we offer. These initia- tives currently do not significantly alter our business model or strat- egy, rather they seek to align our current business model and strategy with a transition to a circular economy. Water and biodiversity-related IROs By using third-party risk mapping tools, we assessed whether our own sites are located in water-stressed or biodiversity-sensitive areas, or if our business model otherwise has significant dependencies or impacts on water use or drivers of biodiversity loss. Through this process, we established that we currently have no material IROs related to water and biodiversity. Social Own workforce-related IROs We have identified six negative, potential impacts related to our own workforce, defined as all GN employees. Overall, these impacts reflect our business model, which depends on human input as a vital resource for all our key activities in our own operations: hearing aid component assembly in Denmark, manufacturing of hearing aids in China and Ma- laysia, final assembly of hearing aids in regional operational centers, R&D and product testing, sales and external collaboration, and white- collar back-office functions. Within this assessment, we established that the most helpful grouping principle for the sake of applying im- pacts to specific employee categories to be blue-collar employees at major manufacturing sites on the one hand and white-collar and all other blue-collar employees on the other. Given that all white-collar- related potential impacts also apply to blue-collar employees, in this report, we report on the management of impacts either for blue-collar workers at major manufacturing sites or all GN employees. We have identified four negative, potential impacts related to our full workforce, including working time, equal pay, adequate wages, harass- ment, and diversity. We have identified one negative, potential impact related to blue-col- lar employees in major manufacturing sites only, relating to health and safety. These impacts would negatively impact the well-being of employees in varying degrees. In all cases, they would be limited in scope to a single employee or specific group of employees. We respond to these IROs through a variety of policies, targets, and ac- tions, within the context of our existing business model and strategy. See pages 87-94 for further detail on the management of these IROs. Workers in the value chain-related IROs We have identified nine IROs related to workers in the value chain. Overall, all these IROs reflect our dependence for our core activity of manufacturing electronic devices on suppliers in industries with docu- mented negative social impacts, specifically mining, plastic and alumi- num production, paper production, freight and logistics, electronics manufacturing, and e-waste treatment. We cannot accurately link the majority of these potential impacts to GN’s activities because they occur in industries that are at tier 2 or be- yond supplier level in our upstream value chain. We directly or indi- rectly have business relations with a very large number of sub-suppli- ers, in a part of our value chain where we have limited visibility and no direct supplier relationships to leverage an assessment of potential so- cial impacts. For this reason, it is also not possible for these impacts to identify very specific (groups of) people or geographies where GN’s ac- tivities lead to impacts. Workers we consider to be at high risk of im- pact and therefore in scope for this assessment include: • Agency workers working on GN sites in countries with weak worker protection controls (this covers agency workers at our manufac- turing site in Malaysia) • Blue-collar workers working for upstream entities involved in min- ing, plastic, aluminum and paper production, and electronics man- ufacturing • Blue-collar workers working for downstream entities involved in freight and distribution, and electronic waste processing 56/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content In the absence of evidence that GN’s value chain differs significantly from similar companies, we have therefore assessed material impacts on a more general level, looking at documented, systemic impacts oc- curring in these industries. We have combined these more general insights with assessments of potential impacts in parts of our upstream value chain where we do have visibility to assess impacts more accurately: Our key tier 1 and tier 2 suppliers which are subject to ESG audits: • Suppliers and sub-suppliers covered by our due diligence process related to compliance with our conflict minerals policy, which fo- cuses on mining for specific types of minerals with a focus on Dem- ocratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and surrounding countries, and impacts related to child and forced labor • Suppliers covered by due diligence process related to forced labor compliance, which focuses on the impact of forced labor in regions targeted by forced labor legislation Combining these two assessments, we have identified 7 material, po- tential, negative impacts related to working conditions, specifically covering secure employment, working time, adequate wages, social di- alogue, freedom of association, collective bargaining, work-life bal- ance, and health & safety. For these impacts, we assess the potentially impacted workers to be blue-collar workers across these value chain industries. We have identified one material negative, potential impact related to equal treatment and opportunities, specifically covering gender equal- ity, violence and harassment, and diversity. Finally, we have identified one material negative, potential impact re- lated to other work-related rights, covering child labor and forced la- bor, where we assess the potentially impacted workers to be either children working in non-certified mineral mines in the Democratic Re- public of the Congo (DRC) and surrounding countries or bonded work- ers in regions with systemic forced labor. This potential impact also leads to a material potential financial risk, as non-compliance with forced labor legislation could potentially prohibit us from selling goods in certain markets, leading to a significant revenue loss. We respond to these IROs by ensuring robust product due diligence processes through our code of conduct, supplier audits and additional controls aimed at avoiding conflict minerals and forced labor, within the context of our existing business model and strategy. See pages 95- 98 for further detail on the management of these IROs. Customer and end user-related IROs We have identified one actual positive impact related to helping people with hearing loss. This is an ‘entity-specific’ impact, as it is not covered in any specific disclosure requirement in ESRS S4. This positive impact in 2024 led to an estimated 11.2 million people with hearing loss bene- fiting from our products. The impact is a consequence of our core ac- tivity of manufacturing hearing aids with the impact taking place downstream at the users of our products. Our strategy seeks to in- crease this impact by helping more people with hearing loss through customer-centric innovation, partnerships, and operational and com- mercial effectiveness. For more information, see page 12. We have identified one material risk in the value chain and in our own operations related to data privacy of customers, as GN holds a range of data on these customers, some of which is highly sensitive (e.g. health records, as part of the activities in our hearing aid division), where a failure to protect this data could have significant financial implications. Content 56/193 57/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content We respond to this risk by ensuring robust data privacy processes within the context of our existing business model and strategy. See pages 99-100 for further detail on the management of this risk. We identified one further risk relating to product safety of our hearing products which as medical devices fall under strict product safety regu- lation to protect hearing aid users, relating to the potential financial implications of product safety failure, leading to potential health and safety impacts for end-users. We respond to this risk by ensuring robust product safety processes within the context of our existing business model and strategy. See page 101 for further detail on the management of this risk. Governance-related IROs We have identified four material risks related to governance. Overall, these risks reflect GN’s dependence on a wide range of business rela- tions across many geographies, which inherently create risks around business ethics in relation to third parties. We have identified one material risk related to culture, representing a potential failure of internal compliance culture leading to employees to not uphold our business ethics standards, as stipulated in our Ethics Guide or local laws. We have identified one material risk related to whistleblowers, repre- senting a potential failure to adequately protect or support whistle- blowers. We have identified one material risk related to third party relations, representing the potential consequences of a failure of third-party due diligence leading to GN doing business with disreputable entities. We have identified two material risks related to corruption and bribery, one representing the potential financial consequences of a failure to prevent or detect corruption and bribery, and it leading to incidents of corruption or bribery. We respond to these risks by ensuring robust business ethics, third- party due diligence and whistleblower processes within the context of our existing business model and strategy (see pages 103-104). 58/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Cross cutting standards Environmental standards Contents tables of disclosure requirements ESRS2 – General information Disclosure requirement Section/report Page BP-1 General basis for preparation of the sustainability statement General basis for preparation 41-42 BP-2 Disclosures in relation to specific circumstances General basis for preparation 41-42 GOV-1 The role of the administrative, management and supervisory bodies Sustainability governance 44-45 GOV-2 Information provided to, and sustainability matters addressed by the un- dertaking’s administrative, management and supervisory bodies Sustainability governance 44-45 GOV-3 Sustainability-related performance in incentive schemes Sustainability governance 44-45 GOV-4 Statement on due diligence Sustainability governance 44-45 GOV-5 Risk management and internal controls over sustainability reporting Sustainability governance 44-45 SBM-1 Strategy, business model and value chain Business model 47 SBM-2 Interests and views of stakeholders Stakeholder engagement 46 SBM-3 Material impacts, risks and opportunities and how they interact with its strategy and business model Material IROs 52-57 IRO-1 Process to identify and assess material impacts, risks and opportunities Double materiality assessment 49-51 IRO-2 Disclosure requirements in ESRS covered by the sustainability statement Contents tables of disclosure require- ments & Data points that are derived from other EU 58-61 ESRS E1 – Climate change Disclosure requirement Section/report Page E1.GOV-3 Integration of sustainability-related performance in incentive schemes Sustainability governance 44 E1.SBM-3 Material impacts, risks and opportunities and their interaction with strategy and business model Climate change, Climate change strategy 67-71 E1.IRO-1 Description of the processes to identify and assess material climate-related impacts, risks and opportunities Double materiality assessment 49-51 N/A Disclosures pursuant to Article 8 of Regulation (EU) 2020/852 (Taxonomy Regulation) EU Taxonomy Regulation disclosure 63-66 E1-1 Transition plan for climate change mitigation Climate change, Climate change strategy 67-71 E1-2 Policies related to climate change mitigation and adaption Climate change 67 E1-3 Actions and resources in relation to climate change policies Climate change, Climate change strategy 67-71 E1-4 Targets related to climate change mitigation and adaption Climate change, Climate change strategy 67-69 E1-5 Energy consumption & mix Climate change, Energy consumption and mix 72 E1-6 Gross scopes 1, 2, 3 and Total GHG emissions Climate change, Greenhouse gas emissions 73-75 E1-7 GHG removals and GHG mitigation projects financed through carbon credits Climate change, Greenhouse gas re- movals 76 ESRS E2 – Pollution Disclosure requirement Section/report Page E2.IRO-1 Description of the processes to identify and assess material pollution-re- lated impacts, risks and opportunities Double materiality assessment 49-51 E2-1 Policies related to pollution Pollution 77-79 E2-2 Actions and resources related to pollution Pollution 77-79 E2-3 Targets related to pollution Pollution 77-79 E2-5 Substances of concern and substances of very high concern Pollution 77-79 ESRS E5 – Resource use and circular economy Disclosure requirement Section/report Page E5.IRO-1 Description of the processes to identify and assess material resource use and circular economy-related impacts, risks and opportunities Double materiality assessment 49-51 E5-1 Policies related to resource use & circular economy Resource use and circular economy 80 E5-2 Actions and resources related to resource use & circular economy Resource use and circular economy 80-81 E5-3 Targets related to resource use & circular economy Resource use and circular economy 81-82 E5-4 Resource inflows Resource use and circular economy 82-83 E5-5 Resource outflows Resource use and circular economy 83-85 59/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Social standards ESRS S1 – Own workforce Disclosure requirement Section/report Page S1.SBM-2 Interests and views of stakeholders Stakeholder engagement 46 S1.SBM-3 Material impacts, risks and opportunities and their interaction with strat- egy and business model Material IROs 55 S1-1 Policies related to own workforce Own workforce, IROs 87 S1-2 Processes for engaging with own workforce and workers’ representatives about impacts Own workforce, Employee engage- ment 88 S1-3 Processes to remediate negative impacts and channels for own workforce to raise concerns Own workforce, Remediation and channels to raise concerns 88 S1-4 Taking action on material impacts on own workforce, and approaches to mitigating material risks and pursuing material opportunities related to own workforce, and effectiveness of those actions Own workforce 89-94 S1-5 Targets related to managing material negative impacts, advancing posi- tive impacts, and managing material risks and opportunities Own workforce, IROs and Health & safety 87-88 and 91-94 S1-6 Characteristics of the undertaking’s employees Own workforce, Employee character- istics 88-89 S1-9 Diversity metrics Own workforce, Diversity, equity, and inclusion 92 S1-10 Adequate wages Own workforce, Adequate wages 91 S1-14 Health and safety metrics Own workforce, Health & safety 89-90 S1-16 Compensation metrics (pay gap and total compensation) Own workforce, Equal pay 93-94 S1-17 Incidents, complaints and severe human rights impacts Own workforce, Incidents, com- plaints and severe human rights im- pacts 94 Governance standards ESRS S4 – Consumers and end-users Disclosure requirement Section/report Page S1.SBM-2 Interests and views of stakeholders Stakeholder engagement 46 S1.SBM-3 Material impacts, risks and opportunities and their interaction with strat- egy and business model Material IROs 55 S4-1 Policies related to consumers and end-users Consumers and end-users 99-101 S4-4 Taking action on material impacts on consumers and end -users, and ap- proaches to managing material risks and pursuing material opportunities related to consumers and endusers, and effectiveness of those actions Consumers and end-users 99-101 S4-5 Targets related to managing material negative impacts, advancing posi- tive impacts, and managing material risks and opportunities Consumers and end-users 99-101 ESRS S2 – Workers in the value chain Disclosure requirement Section/report Page S1.SBM-2 Interests and views of stakeholders Stakeholder engagement 46 S1.SBM-3 Material impacts, risks and opportunities and their interaction with strategy and business model Material IROs 54-56 S2-1 Policies related to value chain workers Workers in the value chain 95-96 S2-2 Processes for engaging with value chain workers about impacts Workers in the value chain 97-98 S2-3 Processes to remediate negative impacts and channels for value chain work- ers to raise concerns Workers in the value chain 98 S2-4 Taking action on material impacts on value chain workers, and approaches to managing material risks related to value chain workers, and effectiveness of those actions Workers in the value chain 96-97 S2-5 Targets related to managing material negative impacts, advancing positive impacts, and managing material risks Workers in the value chain 98 ESRS G1 – Business conduct Disclosure requirement Section/report Page G1.GOV- 1 The role of the administrative, supervisory and management bodies Sustainability governance 44-45 G1.IRO-1 Description of the processes to identify and assess material impacts, risks and opportunities Double materiality assessment 49-51 G1-1 Corporate culture and business conduct policies Business conduct, Business conduct and corporate culture 103 G1-2 Management of relationships with suppliers Business conduct, Management of re- lationships with suppliers 104 G1-3 Prevention and detection of corruption and bribery Business conduct, Prevention and de- tection of corruption and bribery 104 G1-4 Confirmed incidents of corruption and bribery Business conduct, Prevention and de- tection of corruption and bribery 104 60/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Data points that are derived from other EU legislation Disclosure requirement Data point SFDR reference Pillar 3 reference Benchmark regulation reference EU Climate Law reference Material Page number ESRS 2 GOV-1 21 (d) Board's gender diversity x x x 35 ESRS 2 GOV-1 21 (e) Percentage of board members who are independent x x 36-38 ESRS 2 GOV-4 30 Statement on due diligence x x 45 ESRS 2 SBM-1 40 (d) i Involvement in activities related to fossil fuel activities paragraph x x x x (Phased in) ESRS 2 SBM-1 40 (d) ii Involvement in activities related to chemical production paragraph x x x (Phased in) ESRS 2 SBM-1 40 (d) iii Involvement in activities related to controversial weapons paragraph x x x (Phased in) ESRS 2 SBM-1 40 (d) iv Involvement in activities related to cultivation and production of tobacco paragraph x x (Phased in) ESRS E1-1 14 Transition plan to reach climate neutrality by 2050 x x 67-69 ESRS E1-1 16 (g) Undertakings excluded from Paris-aligned Benchmarks paragraph x x x 67 ESRS E1-4 34 GHG emission reduction targets x x x x 69-71 ESRS E1-5 38 Energy consumption from fossil sources disaggregated by sources (only high climate impact sectors) x x 72 ESRS E1-5 37 Energy consumption and mix x x 72 ESRS E1-5 40-43 Energy intensity associated with activities in high climate impact sectors x x 72 ESRS E1-6 44 Gross Scope 1, 2, 3 and Total GHG emissions x x x x 75 ESRS E1-6 53-55 Gross GHG emissions intensity x x x x 72 ESRS E1-7 56 GHG removals and carbon credits x x 76 ESRS E1-9 66 Exposure of the benchmark portfolio to climate-related physical risks x ESRS E1-9 66 (a); 66 (c) Disaggregation of monetary amounts by acute and chronic physical risk ; Location of significant assets at material physical risk x ESRS E1-9 67 (c) Breakdown of the carrying value of its real estate assets by energy-efficiency classes x ESRS E1-9 69 Degree of exposure of the portfolio to climate- related opportunities x ESRS E2-4 28 Amount of each pollutant listed in Annex II of the E-PRTR Regulation (European Pollutant Release and Transfer Register) emitted to air, water and soil x ESRS E3-1 9 Water and marine resources x ESRS E3-1 13 Dedicated policy x ESRS E3-1 14 Sustainable oceans and seas x ESRS E3-4 28 (c) Total water recycled and reused x ESRS E3-4 29 Total water consumption in m3 per net revenue on own operations x ESRS 2- IRO 1 - E4 16 (a) i x ESRS 2- IRO 1 - E4 16 (b) x ESRS 2- IRO 1 - E4 16 (c) x ESRS E4-2 24 (b) Sustainable land / agriculture practices or policies x 61/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Disclosure requirement Data point SFDR reference Pillar 3 reference Benchmark regulation reference EU Climate Law reference Material Page number ESRS E4-2 24 (c) Sustainable oceans / seas practices or policies x ESRS E4-2 24 (d) Policies to address deforestation x ESRS E5-5 37 (d) Non-recycled waste x ESRS E5-5 39 Hazardous waste and radioactive waste x ESRS 2- SBM3 - S1 14 (f) Risk of incidents of forced labour x ESRS 2- SBM3 - S1 14 (g) Risk of incidents of child labour x ESRS S1-1 20 Human rights policy commitments x x 87 ESRS S1-1 21 Due diligence policies on issues addressed by the fundamental International Labor Organisation Con- ventions 1 to 8 x x 87 ESRS S1-1 22 Processes and measures for preventing trafficking in human beings x x 87 ESRS S1-1 23 Workplace accident prevention policy or management system x x 89-90 ESRS S1-3 32 (c) Grievance/complaints handling mechanisms x x 94 ESRS S1-14 88 (b) (c) Number of fatalities and number and rate of work-related accident x x x 90 ESRS S1-14 88 (e) Number of days lost to injuries, accidents, fatalities or illness x x (Phased in) ESRS S1-16 97 (a) Unadjusted gender pay gap x x x 93-94 ESRS S1-16 97 (b) Excessive CEO pay ratio x x 93-94 ESRS S1-17 103 (a) Incidents of discrimination x x 94 ESRS S1-17 104 (a) Non-respect of UNGPs on Business and Human Rights and OECD x x x 94 ESRS 2- SBM3 – S2 11 (b) Significant risk of child labour or forced labour in the value chain x x 55-57 ESRS S2-1 17 Human rights policy commitments x x 95-96 ESRS S2-1 18 Policies related to value chain workers x x 95-96 ESRS S2-1 19 Non-respect of UNGPs on Business and Human Rights principles and OECD guidelines x x x 95-96 ESRS S2-1 19 Due diligence policies on issues addressed by the fundamental International Labor Organisation Con- ventions 1 to 8 x x 95-96 ESRS S2-4 36 Human rights issues and incidents connected to its upstream and downstream value chain x x 95-97 ESRS S3-1 16 Human rights policy commitments x ESRS S3-1 17 Non-respect of UNGPs on Business and Human Rights, ILO principles or and OECD guidelines x x ESRS S3-4 36 Human rights issues and incidents x ESRS S4-1 16 Policies related to consumers and end-users x ESRS S4-1 17 Non-respect of UNGPs on Business and Human Rights and OECD guidelines x x ESRS S4-4 35 Human rights issues and incidents x ESRS G1-1 10 (b) United Nations Convention against Corruption x ESRS G1-1 10 (d) Protection of whistleblowers x ESRS G1-4 24 (a) Fines for violation of anticorruption and anti-bribery laws x x x 104 ESRS G1-4 24 (b) Standards of anti- corruption and anti- bribery x x 104 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 62/193 EU Taxonomy Regulation disclosure 63 Climate change 67 Pollution 77 Resource use and circular economy 80 Sustainability statement Environment 62/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content Every second counts in the retail world, and effective communication across teams is critical. Jabra Perform 75 is a new Bluetooth headset de- signed specifically for shift workers in retail environments. It’s future-ready for AI, seamlessly integrating with ex- isting frontline worker applications and future voice-led applications. The Perform 75 offers hands-free, in- stant access to critical information— allowing associates to stay focused on their tasks while delivering out- standing product knowledge and a better in-store customer experience. Customer-centric innovation for retailers GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 63/193 The EU Taxonomy is a ‘green’ classification system of economic activi- ties, aimed at promoting sustainable ways of working for financial and non-financial companies. GN is required to assess the eligibility and alignment of its economic activities with the taxonomy requirements. GN’s eligible economic activities in 2024 To assess our eligible revenue, capital expenditure (CAPEX), and opera- tional expenditure (OPEX), we have conducted a full screening of both our core and secondary economic activities against those listed in the Annexes to the climate and environmental delegated acts. Our findings indicate eligibility under economic activities tied to two of the environ- ment objectives: the transition to a circular economy and climate change mitigation. Our core business activity is covered by the economic activity CE 1.2 Manufacture of electrical and electronic equipment, which relates to the manufacturing of all our products from Hearing, Enterprise, and Gam- ing & Consumer. In support of this core activity, we also engage in CE 5.1 Repair, refurbishment and remanufacturing, and CE 5.2 Sale of spare parts. Our secondary activities are associated with the climate change mitigation objective and relate mostly to leased buildings and vehicles, construction of new buildings, renovation measures, various energy ef- ficiency initiatives, and data centers, IT servers, and networking equip- ment. Assessing alignment in 2024 To evaluate the degree to which an economic activity is considered aligned under the EU Taxonomy, they need to comply with all of the technical screening criteria under Substantial Contribution, Do No Sig- nificant Harm (DNSH) and the Minimum Safeguards. As the circular economy objective overlaps with our existing sustainability initiatives, we have chosen to focus on our core activity (CE 1.2) to assess align- ment. This economic activity covers the majority of our revenue, CAPEX, and OPEX KPIs and is therefore material to our business model. While our other eligible economic activities are important in other business areas, they are nevertheless smaller in size and lack the required adequate data and documentation to assess alignment. Our assessment in 2024 therefore focuses exclusively on the technical screening criteria under CE 1.2. Through this review, we have estab- lished that none of our revenue, CAPEX, or OPEX fully satisfies the re- quirements under Substantial Contribution, DNSH nor the Minimum Safeguards for all eligible economic activities, and as such we do not report any alignment in 2024. Our approach in 2025 and beyond We fully recognize the value of ensuring our products meet the criteria under our core economic activities. We believe our existing circularity policy and initiatives have linkages to the EU Taxonomy requirements and as we work towards achieving our targets, we expect to see in- creased alignment over time. Moving forward, we will perform a sys- tematic review of existing circularity initiatives, sustainability strategy, and the technical screening criteria. This will enable us to work towards implementing an end-to-end process of assessing alignment of all our product categories under CE 1.2 and help us adjust our processes within this activity towards alignment. Accounting practice The financial KPIs are expressed as the eligible proportion of turnover, capitalized expenditure, direct non-capitalized expenditures which are related to a product, service, asset, or process of an eligible economic activity. As we are reporting 0% alignment in 2024, we do not have any double counting in the KPIs. The reporting scope covers all of GN and its subsidiaries. For 2024, we have increased the scope of eligible financials by adding net revenue lines from the Enterprise and Gaming & Consumer divi- sions to the numerator. We have also allocated eligible revenue streams from other services to our customers, such as repair and refur- bishment of our products and the sale of spare parts. Similarly, this also applies to both the CAPEX and OPEX KPIs as we have incorpo- rated the additions to both tangible and intangible assets, as well as any direct non-capitalized expenditure, applicable to our Enterprise and Gaming & Consumer divisions. For this reason, we have provided re- statements of 2023 numbers for all financial KPIs to be aligned with our approach for 2024 (see pages 64-66). Revenue The turnover KPI is defined as Turnover-eligible turnover divided by to- tal turnover. The total turnover is GN’s total net revenue. Our consoli- dated net revenue can be reconciled to our consolidated financial statements (see section 2.1). CAPEX The CAPEX KPI is defined as Taxonomy-eligible CAPEX divided by total CAPEX. The total CAPEX consists of additions to tangible and intangi- ble assets, before depreciation, amortization, and any re-measure- ments. It includes acquisitions of property plant and equipment, intan- gible assets, leases with usage rights (IFRS 16), investment properties, additions due to acquired business and excludes current and non-cur- rent assets, as well as goodwill. The total additions under the CAPEX KPI can be reconciled to our consolidated financial statements (see sec- tions 3.1 and 3.2). OPEX The OPEX KPI is defined as Taxonomy-eligible OPEX divided by the to- tal OPEX. The total OPEX consists of research and development, ex- cluding overheads; building renovation, short-term lease agreements, maintenance/upkeep and repairs, and any other direct expenditure re- lated to the routine maintenance of tangible assets by us or by the third party to whom activities are outsourced that are necessary to en- sure the continued and effective functioning of such assets. EU Taxonomy Regulation disclosure GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 64/193 Turnover Financial year 2024 2024 Substantial Contribution Criteria DNSH criteria (‘Does Not Significantly Harm’) Economic activities Code (2) Turnover (3) Proportion of turno- ver, year 2024 (4) Climate Change Mitiga- tion (5) Climate Change Adapta- tion (6) Water (7) Pollution (8) Circular Economy (9) Bio- diversity (10) Climate Change Mitiga- tion (11) Climate Change Adap- tion (12) Water (13) Pollution (14) Circular Economy (15) Bio- diversity (16) Minimum Safe- guards (17) Proportion of Taxonomy aligned (A.1.) or eligible (A.2) turnover, year 2023 (18) Category enabling activity (19) Category transi- tional activity (20) (DKKm) % Y;N; N/EL Y;N; N/EL Y;N; N/EL Y;N; N/EL Y;N; N/EL Y;N; N/EL Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N % E T A. TAXONOMY-ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES A.1. Environmentally sustainable activities (Taxonomy-aligned) Turnover of environmentally sustainable activities (Taxonomy- aligned) (A.1) 0 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% N N N N N N N N 0% - - of which Enabling 0 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% N N N N N N N N 0% E - of which Transitional 0 0% 0% - - - - N N N N N N N N 0% - T A.2 Taxonomy-eligible but not environmentally sustainable activities (not Taxonomy-aligned activities) EL; N/EL EL; N/EL EL; N/EL EL; N/EL EL; N/EL EL; N/EL - - - - - - - - - - Manufacture of electrical and electronic equipment CE 1.2 17,881 99% N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL EL N/EL - - - - - - - 99% - - Sale of spare parts CE 5.2 104 1% N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL EL N/EL - - - - - - - 1% - - Turnover of Taxonomy-eligible but not environmentally sustaina- ble activities (not Taxonomy-aligned activities) (A.2) 17,985 100% 0% 0% 0% 0% 100% 0% - - - - - - - 100% - - A. Turnover of Taxonomy eligible activities (A1 + A2) 17,985 100% 0% 0% 0% 0% 100% 0% - - - - - - - 100% - - B. TAXONOMY-NON-ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES Turnover of Taxonomy-non-eligible activities - 0% Total 17,985 100% GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 65/193 CAPEX Financial year 2024 2024 Substantial Contribution Criteria DNSH criteria (‘Does Not Significantly Harm’) Economic activities Code (2) CAPEX (3) Proportion of CAPEX, year 2024 (4) Climate Change Mitiga- tion (5) Climate Change Adapta- tion (6) Water (7) Pollution (8) Circular Economy (9) Bio- diversity (10) Climate Change Mitiga- tion (11) Climate Change Adap- tion (12) Water (13) Pollution (14) Circular Economy (15) Bio- diversity (16) Minimum Safe- guards (17) Proportion of Taxonomy aligned (A.1.) or eligible (A.2) CAPEX, year 2023 (18) Category enabling activity (19) Category transi- tional activity (20) (DKKm) % Y;N; N/EL Y;N; N/EL Y;N; N/EL Y;N; N/EL Y;N; N/EL Y;N; N/EL Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N % E T A. TAXONOMY-ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES A.1. Environmentally sustainable activities (Taxonomy-aligned) CAPEX of environmentally sustainable activities (Taxonomy-aligned) (A.1) 0 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% N N N N N N N N 0% - - of which Enabling 0 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% N N N N N N N N 0% E - of which Transitional 0 0% 0% - - - - N N N N N N N N 0% - T A.2 Taxonomy-eligible but not environmentally sustainable activities (not Taxonomy-aligned activities) EL; N/EL EL; N/EL EL; N/EL EL; N/EL EL; N/EL EL; N/EL - - - - - - - - - - Manufacture of electrical and electronic equipment CE 1.2 1,334 79.3% N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL EL N/EL - - - - - - - 95.4% - - Transport by motorbikes, passenger cars and light commercial vehi- cles CCM 6.5 / CCA 6.5 11.2 0.7% EL EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL - - - - - - - 0% - - Construction of new buildings CCM 7.1 / CCA 7.1 / CE 3.1 19.1 1.1% EL EL N/EL N/EL EL N/EL - - - - - - - 0% - - Renovation of existing buildings CCM 7.2 / CCA 7.2 / CE 3.2 39 2.3% EL EL N/EL N/EL EL N/EL - - - - - - - 0.5% - - Installation, maintenance and repair of energy efficiency equipment CCM 7.3 / CCA 7.3 0.6 0.0% EL EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL - - - - - - - 0% - - Installation, maintenance, and repair of charging stations for electric vehicles in buildings (and parking spaces attached to buildings) CCM 7.4 / CCA 7.4 0.1 0.0% EL EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL - - - - - - - 0% - - Acquisition and ownership of buildings CCM 7.7 / CCA 7.7 278 16.5% EL EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL - - - - - - - 4.1% - - Data processing, hosting and related activities CCM 8.1 / CCA 8.1 0.3 0.02% EL EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL - - - - - - - 0% - - CAPEX of Taxonomy-eligible but not environmentally sustainable ac- tivities (not Taxonomy-aligned activities) (A.2) 1,682 100% 21% 21% 0% 0% 83% 0% - - - - - - - 100% - - A. CAPEX of Taxonomy eligible activities (A1 + A2) 1,682 100% 21% 21% 0% 0% 83% 0% - - - - - - - 100% - - B. TAXONOMY-NON-ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES CAPEX of Taxonomy-non-eligible activities 0% Total 1,682 100% GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 66/193 OPEX Financial year 2024 2024 Substantial Contribution Criteria DNSH criteria (‘Does Not Significantly Harm’) Economic activities Code (2) OPEX (3) Proportion of OPEX, year 2024 (4) Climate Change Mitiga- tion (5) Climate Change Adapta- tion (6) Water (7) Pollution (8) Circular Economy (9) Bio- diversity (10) Climate Change Mitiga- tion (11) Climate Change Adap- tion (12) Water (13) Pollution (14) Circular Economy (15) Biodiver- sity (16) Minimum Safe- guards (17) Proportion of Taxonomy aligned (A.1.) or eligible (A.2) OPEX, year 2023 (18) Category enabling activity (19) Category transi- tional ac- tivity (20) (DKKm) % Y;N; N/EL Y;N; N/EL Y;N; N/EL Y;N; N/EL Y;N; N/EL Y;N; N/EL Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N Y/N % E T A. TAXONOMY-ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES A.1. Environmentally sustainable activities (Taxonomy-aligned) OPEX of environmentally sustainable activities (Taxonomy-aligned) (A.1) 0 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% N N N N N N N N 0% - - of which Enabling 0 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% N N N N N N N N 0% E - of which Transitional 0 0% 0% - - - - N N N N N N N N 0% - T A.2 Taxonomy-eligible but not environmentally sustainable activities (not Taxonomy-aligned activities) EL; N/EL EL; N/EL EL; N/EL EL; N/EL EL; N/EL EL; N/EL - - - - - - - - - - Manufacture of electrical and electronic equipment CE 1.2 1,532.9 74.0% N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL EL N/EL - - - - - - - 88.8% - - Repair, refurbishment, and remanufacturing CE 5.1 339.7 16.4% N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL EL N/EL - - - - - - - 9.5% - - Transport by motorbikes, passenger cars and light commercial vehi- cles CCM / CCA 6.5 1.7 0.1% EL EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL - - - - - - - 0.1% - - Renovation of existing buildings CCM / CCA 7.2 / CE 3.2 6.5 0.3% EL EL N/EL N/EL EL N/EL - - - - - - - 0.0% - - Installation, maintenance and repair of energy efficiency equipment CCM / CCA 7.3 6.2 0.3% EL EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL - - - - - - - 0.0% - - Installation, maintenance, and repair of charging stations for electric vehicles in buildings (and parking spaces attached to buildings) CCM / CCA 7.4 0.01 0.0% EL EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL - - - - - - - 0.0% - - Installation, maintenance and repair of instruments and devices for measuring, regulation and controlling energy performance of build- ings CCM / CCA 7.5 0.3 0.02% EL EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL - - - - - - - 0.0% - - Acquisition and ownership of buildings CCM / CCA 7.7 156.6 7.6% EL EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL - - - - - - - 1.1% - - Data processing, hosting and related activities CCM / CCA 8.1 5.5 0.3% EL EL N/EL N/EL N/EL N/EL - - - - - - - 0.1% - - OPEX of Taxonomy-eligible but not environmentally sustainable ac- tivities (not Taxonomy-aligned activities) (A.2) 2,049 99.0% 9% 9% 0.0% 0.0% 91% 0.0% - - - - - - - 99.7% - - A. OPEX of Taxonomy eligible activities (A1 + A2) 2,049 99.0% 9% 9% 0.0% 0.0% 91% 0.0% - - - - - - - 99.7% - - B. TAXONOMY-NON-ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES OPEX of Taxonomy-non-eligible activities 21.4 1.0% Total 2,071 100% GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 67/193 As a globally operating manufacturing company that produces and transports millions of products a year, climate change is naturally a material topic for GN. Driven by our climate targets, we are committed to playing our part in reducing emissions in line with the scientific con- sensus on the required pace of decarbonization, while ensuring busi- ness continuity in a world in which the effects of climate change are in- creasingly impacting all industries and regions. To meet this commit- ment, we have a climate transition plan in place, consisting of an over- arching policy, science-based targets, climate-related incentives for our CEO and CFO (see pages 67-69) and several decarbonization initiatives. The Board of Directors has approved the policy, targets, and incentives. IROs We have identified three IROs, all impacts, related to climate change, reflecting that we are a globally operating manufacturing company which inherently leads to carbon emissions because of the use of fossil fuels across our value chain (see page 52). We have identified one ac- tual negative impact related to energy use for our own operations and value chain respectively, as well as two actual negative impacts related to climate mitigation, for own operations and value chain respectively because of the carbon emissions resulting from this. Policies Our Environmental Policy covers our approach to climate change. It in- cludes our commitment to reduce our greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in line with the scientific consensus on the urgency of addressing cli- mate change and the degradation of nature, manifested in our science- based targets for 2030 and commitment to be net-zero no later than 2050. For our Scope 1 and 2 emissions, where electricity consumption consti- tutes a major part of our footprint, we prioritize sourcing renewable en- ergy through instruments that ensure local generation and newly or not yet commissioned projects (e.g., through a power purchase agreement). The policy also states that opportunities to improve en- ergy efficiency, such as replacement of machinery and equipment, pro- cess optimization and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system setting adjustment are identified, evaluated and implemented on an ongoing basis. As the vast majority of our emissions are in our value chain (Scope 3), the policy also includes our expectations of suppliers, also captured in our Supplier Code of Conduct, to provide accurate carbon data to ena- ble us to take a data-driven approach to our decarbonization strategy. The policy also sets out significant decarbonization levers and the key criteria we employ in prioritizing decarbonization initiatives: impact and GN’s degree of influence. Finally, the policy states that we do not con- sider carbon offsetting as an alternative to carbon reduction, and that we will only engage in carbon removal that is independently certified, and that we will not claim any carbon avoidance claims related to our products as part of meeting our climate targets. This policy is approved by our Board of Directors, and our Executive Management is accounta- ble for implementation. Climate change strategy Although climate is a material topic to GN in several ways, for our cli- mate strategy it is relevant to state that - as reflected in the disclosure related to the EU Taxonomy (see pages 63-66) - our core economic ac- tivity (CE 1.2) is not eligible to be considered sustainable from the per- spective of climate-related objectives. In other words, GN's core activ- ity is not such that it can potentially contribute to resolving or directly facilitating climate-related impacts on a significant scale. While some of our secondary economic activities are eligible under the climate change mitigation objective, these are not material to our main busi- ness model, and we have therefore not invested significant CAPEX or OPEX related to such initiatives. Moreover, our climate reduction initia- tives as described on these pages, are anchored within our existing business model and financial planning. This is further supported by the fact that we do not currently have material climate-related financial risks (see page 29), and the fact that GN is not excluded from the Paris- aligned benchmarks. For these reasons, we also do not expect alignment of our economic activities with the delegated act on climate objectives to change signifi- cantly in the future. However, a small increase in CAPEX and OPEX alignment may be expected in eligible economic activities such as con- struction of new buildings and production facilities (CCM/CCA 7.1), building renovation measures (CCM/CCA 7.2), energy efficiency initia- tives at our facilities (CCM/CCA 7.3), installation of onsite renewable energy capacity (CCM/CCA 7.6) and electrification of our car fleet (CCM/CCA 7.4) which are actions we will take to ensure we meet our near- and long-term climate targets. Scope 3 emissions (tCO2eq) Climate change 2021 2024 2030 (Target) 2050 (Target) 349,006 257,107 261,755 34,901 47.2% 14.5 % 8.9% 25.9% 52.6% 15.5% 16.3% 9% 6.6% 3.5% Purchased goods and services Upstream transportation and distribution Use of sold products Other activities Business travel and commuting 2024 emissions are below our 2030 target value, but this does not impact our decarbonization efforts, as there are many factors influencing future emissions, including expected organic growth. See page 69 for details. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 68/193 Scope 1 and 2 emissions (tCO2eq) Targets GN has set Board-approved science-based GHG emission reduction tar- gets to manage our climate-related impact and risks by decarbonizing in line with the scientific consensus on the urgency of addressing cli- mate change and the degradation of nature. We are committed to re- duce absolute GHG emissions (metric tons CO2eq) in Scope 1 and 2 by 80% and in Scope 3 by 25% by 2030 from a 2021 baseline. GN is also committed to reaching net-zero GHG emissions by 2050 at the latest, meaning 90% reduction with neutralization of unabated emissions to reach net zero. These targets cover all GHGs stipulated in the GHG Protocol and all ac- tivities in GN’s own operations and value chain globally. Our near-term targets have been set using the Science Based Targets initiative’s (SBTi) Criteria v5.0 with the absolute contraction approach and the cross-sec- tor pathway, which is based on the P1 scenario in the IPCC Special Re- port on Global Warming of 1.5°C. It has been assumed that GN’s core business activities will not change by 2030. We have aligned our net- zero target to the SBTi’s cross-sector absolute reduction method for long-term targets. Besides the scientific basis, the perspective of customers and several users of sustainability statements (e.g., existing investors, lenders, and other financial institutions) also influenced our decision to set emission reduction targets with SBTi. Through our climate targets, we demonstrate our commitment to en- sure our business is compatible with the transition to a net-zero econ- omy and with the limiting of global warming to 1.5°C in line with the Paris Agreement. Our 2030 reduction targets are the first milestone to- wards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, and we assess that we can reach this milestone without adjusting our business model, as the re- quired reductions can be achieved through a number of decarboniza- tion levers without having to adjust the fundamentals of how our busi- ness operates. We are planning and implementing several initiatives us- ing such levers (see the Actions in this chapter). To ensure we will uti- lize the levers to the extent required to meet these targets, we will integrate our transition plan into our company strategy, as well as sup- porting divisional and functional strategies, in 2025. The International Energy Agency’s Net-Zero Emissions scenario (IEA NZE) was used to identify likely contextual decarbonization when we identified the decarbonization levers we can act on to reach our climate targets. For example, given that our products consume electricity, the expected decarbonization of the power grids in our major markets was relevant to understand the trajectory for our Scope 3 category 11 emis- sions, irrespective of any potential improvements to the energy effi- ciency of our products. An estimated 41,792 tCO2e are locked-in emissions from the use of GN products sold in 2024, which currently makes up 16% of our total Scope 3 emissions (see page 75). These use phase emissions could still be reduced through firmware updates in the market, but it remains dif- ficult to quantify potential emissions reductions from such initiatives. As these emissions are a result of electricity consumption, we expect significant reduction to take place as a result of the global shift to- wards renewable energy as part of the transition to a net-zero econ- omy outside GN’s direct control. Given the general duration of use of our products, we don't expect these locked-in emissions to prevent us from reaching net-zero in 2050, regardless of the pace of the transition to renewable energy. Target Scopes Base year Baseline value Target year Target value Reduction % Current value Progress to target % Target reference value* Methodology Near-term target 1 Scope 1 (23%) scope 2 market-based (77%) 2021 9,831 2030 1,966 80% 4,183 72 5,702 Science-based target, approved by SBTi Near-term target 2 Scope 3 2021 349,006 2030 261,755 25% 257,107 105 174,503 Science-based target, approved by SBTi Long-term target Scopes 1 (<1%), 2 (2%) and 3 (98%) 2021 358,837 2050 35,884 90% 261,290 30 35,884 Science-based target, not approved by SBTi *Cross-sector (ACA) reductions pathway based on the year 2020 as the reference year from Pathways to Net-zero –SBTi Technical Summary (Version 1.0, October 2021) 9,831 4,183 1,966 520 2021 2024 2030 (Target) 2050 (Net Zero Target) GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 69/193 Current performance against our targets and outlook towards 2030 and 2050 The carbon emissions reported in this report show that we are on track to meet our 80% 2030 reduction target for Scope 1 and 2 emissions, having reduced our emissions by 58% already versus our 2021 baseline. For carbon emissions in Scope 3, in 2024 we reached our reduction tar- get of 25% by 2030, having reduced emissions by 26% versus our base- line. Our current emissions demonstrate that our target is achievable but, as there are many factors influencing future emissions, this is no guarantee we will continue to achieve this target in 2030 and the years in between. Our emissions are largely driven by production volumes, especially in the Enterprise and Gaming & Consumer divisions, and organic growth is therefore likely to lead to higher emissions. The extent to which or- ganic growth will lead to changes in our carbon emissions depends on the EBITA margin (which we expect to increase), decarbonization initia- tives we implement, and decarbonization taking place in our value chain not related to our initiatives, such as the advancement of low- carbon materials and decarbonization of the energy and transport sec- tors. As described in the GN investment case on page 17, we expect or- ganic growth of 5-8% annually until 2028. Ensuring we meet our tar- gets on a continuous basis therefore will likely require decoupling or- ganic growth from increased emissions by decreasing the carbon inten- sity of our activities. Other potential impacts on our carbon emissions might include a fur- ther increase in climate-related demands from customers and business partners, as well as an increase in climate-related legislation, both of which could strengthen the business case for further decarbonization initiatives. While we do not expect major changes to the types of prod- ucts in our portfolio until at least 2028, the mix of products and ser- vices we offer beyond 2028 could also impact carbon emissions. Achieving our target to be net zero in 2050 will likely require further adjustments to our strategy and potentially our business model, includ- ing the use of new technologies particularly related to the materials we use in our products. As our strategy period does not extend beyond 2030 and there are many uncertainties around the decarbonization pathways of the industries we depend on in our value chain in the pe- riod 2030-2050, we cannot yet assess the nature and extent of the re- quired adjustments. We do believe reaching our 2050 net-zero target is achievable, as there is no indication, based on the IEA 2024 World En- ergy Outlook report, that decarbonization trends in the power and transport sectors will prevent us from reaching this. Target baseline GN disclosed GHG emissions in Scopes 1, 2 and 3, covering all business activities, for the first time in 2021. Data accuracy for that reporting year is sufficient for reliable representation of GN’s GHG emissions. To improve the accuracy and comparability of our carbon accounting, we have updated our methodology, most significantly changes to the emission factors applied. The 2021 baseline has been recalculated so there is no effect on our targets (see the Restatements section on page 42). Actions To meet our climate targets and meet our policy objectives, we have identified six decarbonization levers. We have implemented several emission reductions initiatives within these levers, and they also form the framework for future decarbonization initiatives. Data on expected reductions from planned actions is not yet available. To meet our Scope 1 and 2 target of 80% reduction in emissions by 2030, we focus on: Renewable energy The share of renewable energy consumed has increased to 39% from a 3% baseline in 2021, primarily through the procurement of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). The RECs source solar power for our head- quarters and production facility in Denmark, our global manufacturing centers in China and Malaysia, and our regional operations center in the United States. In 2025, we will develop a long-term renewable energy plan for all sites in operational control with more than 50 employees. This will include assessing the potential for onsite generation at our major production sites. Energy efficiency Based on the recommendations of the energy audit conducted in 2023, several energy efficiency initiatives have been implemented at our global production facility in Malaysia, including modifications to cool- ing systems and lighting, as well as replacement of process equipment. As a result, energy consumption per unit production has decreased by 37% since 2023, with an absolute reduction in energy consumption and related emissions of 8% and 6%, respectively. In 2025, we plan to carry out a follow-up energy audit at our facility in Malaysia in the wake of the initiatives we have implemented in 2024 based on the guidance from the existing energy audit. Beyond 2025, we also plan to conduct an energy audit at our production facility in Xia- men, China, and to implement a major system modification at our facil- ity in Malaysia, which is expected to further reduce energy consump- tion at the site. Fleet electrification We update our company car policies on an ongoing basis to encourage transition towards electric vehicles. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 70/193 To meet our Scope 3 target of 25% reduction in emissions by 2030, we prioritize: Product and packaging design We have increased the use of lower carbon materials in new product development, particularly in the Enterprise division. From having used less than 1% recycled or renewable plastic in our products in 2021, we have increased the proportion of recycled or renewable plastics and synthetic fibers out of total weight of plastic and synthetic fibers to 11.4% across our product portfolio in 2024. Four new products with re- cycled or renewable plastic were launched in 2024, with more products containing recycled or renewable plastic to be launched in 2025. To reduce the use of carbon-intensive materials across our product portfolio without compromising on the quality of our products, we con- tinuously test recycled and bio-based alternatives for their suitability for use in our products. Decarbonization of transport and logistics Reducing air freight is a significant decarbonization lever for GN. In 2024, we reduced the share of air freight (by tonkm) from the global to regional distribution hubs in our Enterprise division from 94% in 2021 to 22%, which was the main driver for the absolute reduction of 50,313 tCO2eq in Scope 3 category 4 (14% of total Scope 3 emissions in 2021). We will continue switching to ocean and rail freight wherever possible. To reduce emissions from road freight, we purchased renewable diesel for use in trucking on specific routes for our hearing products in Eu- rope. Renewable energy in the supply chain To reduce emissions from outsourced manufacturing we track our sup- pliers’ share of renewable energy consumption and will engage them to increase where necessary in support of our long-term targets. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 71/193 Enabling actions We have taken several key enabling actions that improve data quality or establish new business processes, which are necessary for realizing our transition plan. In 2024, we conducted 15 new product Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) and updated seven existing LCAs. We have improved our LCA method- ology to use more supplier-specific data and to better align with our peers to facilitate comparison within our industries. Next year, we plan to expand LCA coverage of our product portfolio and continue our sup- ply chain engagement program to increase the share of primary data used. Further details of the above actions can be found in the table to the right. Actions table Key emission reduction initiative Scope Timeframe Emis- sions scope Achieved emissions reduction (tCO2eq) in 2024 Expected outcomes/ emissions re- duction (tCO2eq) Associated Target EU Taxonomy economic activity Renewable energy Own operations - Hearing divi- sion production facilities and key offices Unbundled RECs were pur- chased in 2024 in China and the US to cover consumption in 2024 Scope 2 (market - based) An absolute reduction of 2,131 tCO2eq from 2021 was achieved, of which 93% was through the purchase of RECs, with the re- mainder coming from a reduction in consumption at these sites We plan to continue sourcing renew- able energy for our HQ and our key production sites. We expect to source renewable energy for addi- tional sites in 2025, further reducing market-based Scope 2 emissions Scope 1 and 2 target N/A Energy effi- ciency Own operations (Global manu- facturing facil- ity, Malaysia) Recommended initiatives from the 2023 energy audit were im- plemented in 2024 Scope 2 (location - based) Energy consumption decreased by 8% from 2023, despite in- creased production output. This achieved an emissions reduction of 141 tCOeq (6%) We expect to save approximately 140 tCO2eq in location -based Scope 2 emissions per year from the imple- mented energy efficiency initiatives Local target to re- duce annual power consump- tion by 3% in 2024 (from 2023) CCM 7.3 Fleet electrifi- cation Own operations (Global) We are rolling out new com- pany car policies on an ongoing basis for new lease contracts Scope 1 Transitioning to electric cars has achieved a reduction of 25 tCO2eq, compared with the sce- nario where new leases in 2024 were petrol cars Reducing the number of fossil fuel cars in our fleet will lead to an in- creasing annual reduction of our S cope 1 emissions, the majority of which come from car fuels Scope 1 and 2 target CCM 6.5 Supply -chain decarboniza- tion Value chain (En- terprise in- bound logistics) Minimizing air freight in our in- bound logistics (by weight) has been an ongoing initiative since 2021. We will continue to do this and have dedicated short - term bonus objectives to sup- port this initiative Scope 3 The absolute emissions reduction from the 2021 baseline is esti- mated to be 37,909 tCO2eq We expect further emission reduc- tions from this action in future, but we are not able to quantify these, as freight volumes fluctuate Scope 3 and target N/A Supply -chain decarboniza- tion Value chain (Hearing divi- sion outbound road freight in EMEA) Carbon insetting through pur- chase of HVO fuels has been implemented from July 2024 onwards Scope 3 Through the purchase of HVO fuels, we have reduced transpor- tation emissions by 2.07 tCO2eq in 2024 With the continued purchase of HVO fuels at the same rate we ex- pect to reduce Scope 3 Category 4 emissions by around 4.1 tCO2eq an- nually Scope 3 target N/A Product de- sign: low -car- bon materials Value chain (Products in Enterprise and Gaming & Con- sumer divisions) The ongoing inclusion of sus- tainable design requirements in our product development pro- cess, including use of recycled materials, has led to emission reductions from new product launches and product updates Scope 3 31 tCO2eq reduction was achieved for Enterprise products released in 2024 by replacing 6% of the virgin fossil plastic (PC/ABS) weight with recycled or renewable alternatives We expect that the work we have done to test and incorporate these materials in our new product dev el- o pment will lead to increasing emis- sions reductions in 2025 and beyond Scope 3 target, Resource inflows target N/A GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 72/193 Energy consumption and mix Renewable energy To meet our Scope 1 and 2 emission reduction target, we are working on increasing the share of renewable energy consumption at our sites. In 2024, 38.5% of our energy consumption came from renewable sources (up from 2.9% in 2021), including purchase of 4,886 MWh of bundled RECs (4,500 MWh from a power purchase agreement in Den- mark, the remainder coming from green tariffs) and 7,454 MWh of un- bundled RECs in Malaysia, China, and the U.S., where we have hearing aid production facilities. All purchased RECs came from solar or wind power generation. Renewable and non-renewable energy sources Accounting policies Energy consumption and mix Energy purchased directly from the vendor is included. Where actual en- ergy consumption from invoices is unavailable, consumption is estimated based on the relevant historical period. For electricity and heat, supplier- specific energy mix was used where available. Otherwise, national grid mix was assumed. High climate impact sector: GN’s Hearing division falls under NACE Code C26.6: Manufacture of irradiation, electromedical, and electrotherapeutic equipment. Unit 2024 Total energy consumption from activities in high climate impact sec- tors MWh 18,072 Net revenue from activities in high climate impact sectors DKKm 7,104 Energy intensity MWh/ DKK million 2.54 Bundled RECs Renewable energy* Unbundled RECs Non-renewable energy Fuels Residual mix electricity District heating 39% 61% 15% 23% 43% 10% 9% * Excluding renewable energy sources in the grid mix MWh 2024 Fuel consumption from coal and coal products - Fuel consumption from crude oil and petroleum products 11,613 Fuel consumption from natural gas 2,064 Fuel consumption from other fossil sources - Consumption of purchased or acquired electricity, heat, steam, and cooling from fossil sources 5,220 Total fossil energy consumption 18,897 Share of fossil sources in total energy consumption 59% Consumption from nuclear sources 366 Share of consumption from nuclear sources in total energy consumption 1% Fuel consumption for renewable sources, including biomass (also comprising industrial and municipal waste of biologic origin, biogas, renewable hydrogen, etc.) - Consumption of purchased or acquired electricity, heat, steam, and cooling from renewable sources 12,754 The consumption of self-generated non-fuel renewable energy - Total renewable energy consumption 12,754 Share of renewable sources in total energy consumption* 40% Total energy consumption 32,017 *Including renewable sources in the grid mix GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 73/193 Greenhouse gas emissions Scopes 1 and 2 GHG emissions in Scopes 1 and 2 (market-based) emissions have de- creased by 58% from the 2021 baseline, taking us 72% of the way to- wards our target of 80% reduction by 2030. The reduction is primarily driven by the increased share of renewable energy at our sites. For Scope 1, stationary emissions have decreased 15% from the 2021 baseline, primarily because of a reduced scope of activities at our UK site. Fugitive emissions have decreased by 44% from the 2021 baseline, largely caused by lower cooling consumption in Denmark. Mobile emis- sions have increased by 20% since 2021 from an increase in company car use after the Covid-19 pandemic. Market-based Scope 2 emissions have decreased by 82% from the 2021 baseline, predominantly caused by an increase in the share of renewa- ble power share at our sites from 5% in 2021 to 60% in 2024. Location- based Scope 2 emissions have decreased by 8% since 2021, primarily because of lower grid emission factors. Scope 3 Total Scope 3 emissions have decreased by 26% from the 2021 base- line, taking us beyond reaching our Scope 3 target for 2030 to reduce by 25%. The largest decrease (of 56%) occurred in category 4 (up- stream transportation and distribution), because of an increase in the share of ocean and rail freight from 6% to 78% for the transportation of Enterprise products to regional distribution centers. In category 1 (purchased goods and services), which has decreased by 18% since 2021, emissions from direct procurement decreased by 16% because of lower demand for Enterprise products. Indirect procurement emissions decreased by 23% because of lower spending, particularly on services. Emissions in category 2 (capital goods) have decreased by 26% because of large reductions in PPE additions for factory and office buildings and for operating assets and equipment. In category 6 (business travel), emissions have increased by 265% from the 2021 baseline, because of unusually low levels of business travel in 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. As business travel does not repre- sent a significant share of total emissions, this does not disqualify 2021 as a suitable baseline for our targets. Other significant decreases have occurred in emissions in categories 11 (use of sold products) and 12 (end of life of sold products): 17% and 30% respectively, because of lower sales of products with relatively high energy consumption, particularly in the Enterprise division. Greenhouse gas intensity GHG emission intensity per unit revenue (market-based) has also de- creased by 25% since 2021, which is largely a result of the growth in the share of GN’s revenue from the Hearing division, which is less car- bon intensive. Restatements GHG emissions in 2021 have been restated across all scopes because of divestments, improvements in data quality, methodological changes and updates to emission factors (see table to the right). Restatements are compared to 2023, which included SteelSeries emissions. SteelSeries emissions from 2021, before the acquisition, were therefore already captured in the data. The baseline for our Scope 1 and 2 emission reduction target has been restated from 10,507 tCO2eq to 9,832 tCO2eq, a decrease of 6.4%, which mainly arose from the divestment of Dansk HøreCenter, while our Scope 3 target baseline has been restated to 349,006 tCO2eq. New data has improved data quality and assumptions behind Scope 3 accounting. One of the most significant improvements has been made in categories 1 and 11, because of increased LCA coverage of our prod- uct portfolio. New LCA data has improved modelling accuracy in cate- gory 12. Base year emissions in these categories have been restated. Excluding indirect emissions (radiative forcing from emissions at high altitude) from air transport, which were previously included for air freight and air travel, has enabled us to use supplier-specific data and better align with the widely adopted GLEC framework. This has im- proved data accuracy and comparability. Base year emissions in Scope 3 category 4 have decreased by 61,740 tCO2eq, and a small decrease has occurred in category 6. Other methodological and boundary up- dates have led to changes in the baseline. See the table below for de- tails of all GHG emission restatements. GHG Emissions scope Previous baseline (tCO2eq) Restated baseline (tCO2eq) % change Scope 1 2,411 2,447 1.5 Scope 2 (location-based) 6,353 6,264 -1.4 Scope 2 (market-based) 8,096 7,384 -8.8 Scope 3 425,547 349,006 -18.0 1 Purchased goods and services 144,020 164,916 14.5 2 Capital goods 17,992 17,131 -4.8 3 Fuel and energy-related activities 1,920 859 -55.3 4 Upstream transportation and distribution 151,985 90,245 -40.6 5 Waste generated in operations 112 93 -17.0 6 Business travel 2,650 2,630 -0.8 7 Employee commuting 7,122 9,617 35.0 8 Upstream leased assets 1,631 1,870 14.7 9 Downstream transportation and distribution 16,972 8,953 -47.2 11 Use of sold products 80,349 50,495 -37.2 12 End-of-life treatment of sold products 794 2,197 176.7 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 74/193 Accounting policies Scopes 1 and 2 Direct emissions (Scope 1) come from the combustion of purchased fuels onsite for heat and in vehicles owned or leased by the company, as well as fugitive emissions, which arise from GN’s use of refrigerant gases in pro- duction facilities. Indirect emissions (Scope 2) are from purchased electricity and district heating for production sites and offices and electric or hybrid vehicles that are owned or leased by the company. Only fuel, electricity, and heat that is purchased directly from the vendor by GN is accounted for in Scopes 1 and 2. Natural gas, electricity, and dis- trict heating consumption is reported based on actual consumption from invoices, where possible. Emissions from vehicles is calculated using the fuel-based method. Fuel or electricity consumption from vehicles is obtained from either invoices or system-generated reports from vendors, including leasing companies and fuel card vendors. Where consumption data is unavailable, emissions from vehicles are accounted for using the distance-based method. Where actual data is not available for the reporting period, consumption is estimated based on the relevant historical period. The quantity of energy consumed is multiplied by the relevant emission factor as part of the consolidation process in our environmental manage- ment system. The emission factors are determined from internationally recognized sources: DEFRA factors for emissions from electricity con- sumed in the UK, heat, fuel, and transport, US EPA factors for electricity consumed in the US, and IEA factors for all other electricity consumption. GHG emission attributes (from RECs), supplier-specific and residual mix factors are used to calculate market-based Scope 2 emissions. Otherwise, location-based factors are used. Emission factors applied to Scope 2 emis- sions do not separate the percentage of biomass or biogenic CO 2 . Accounting policies Scope 3 Reporting of Scope 3 GHG emissions is based on the GHG Protocol guid- ance. Categories 10 (Processing of sold products), 13 (Downstream leased assets) and 14 (Franchises) are not relevant to GN and are not reported. Category 15 (Investments) is not deemed material because most invest- ments relate to retail activities in the Hearing division, which are covered in Category 9 (Downstream transportation and distribution). Actual data is used where available. Otherwise, industry averaged data or estimates are used. Where activity data quality is insufficient, spend data is used as a proxy. All transport-related emissions are calculated on a Well- to-Wheel basis. Category 1 – Purchased goods and services For indirect procurement, emissions from goods and services purchased by GN are calculated using categorized spend data. Cradle-to-gate LCAs across all divisions are used to calculate emissions from direct procure- ment (purchasing of components, semi-finished and finished goods). Category 2 – Capital goods Emissions from property, plant, and equipment (PPE), calculated using cat- egorized spend data. Category 3 – Fuel and energy-related activities Upstream emissions from energy consumption at sites and for fleet vehi- cles where GN has operational control are calculated using actual energy consumption data, where available. Otherwise, emissions have been calcu- lated from estimated energy consumption. Category 4 – Upstream transportation and distribution Emissions from upstream transportation are calculated using supplier-spe- cific reported emissions or from distance and chargeable weight data. Where chargeable weight was not available for 2021, it has been estimated from gross weight, based on professional judgement of the expected ratio between the two. Accounting policies Where needed, distances are extracted from EcoTransIT using coordinates, port codes or city location. Scope 3 category 4 includes some emissions from outbound freighting of GN goods that we do not pay for, as these shipments could not be distin- guished from shipments in the same transport leg that GN pays for. Category 5 – Waste generated in operations Collection and treatment emissions associated with waste generated by GN offices and production sites. Emissions are calculated using data from waste management providers serving four of our five major production sites and headquarters. For remaining sites, estimates are made based on production volumes (production sites) and employee numbers (office and retail sites). Category 6 – Business travel Emissions from air travel, train travel and hotel stay, calculated using ticket data gathered from travel partners, uplifted using spend data to include travel not booked through GN’s travel partners. Emissions from fuel pur- chased by employees for road travel are accounted for in category 1. Category 7 – Employee commuting Emissions from GN employees’ commuting is based on an employee survey conducted in the reporting year, scaled for country-level changes in em- ployee numbers. Category 8 – Upstream leased assets Energy use at sites not included in Scopes 1 and 2. Emissions are calculated with a market-based approach using actual data obtained from building management providers and, where necessary, estimates based on floor- space and actual data from a site with similar geography and activities. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 75/193 Accounting policies Category 9 – Downstream transportation and distribution Emissions associated with the warehousing or retail of GN products after they are sold, where these activities and services are not owned or pur- chased by GN. Emissions from retail and warehousing are estimated using energy inten- sity per unit floorspace for retail and non-refrigerated warehouse buildings in the US (CBECS) and allocated supplier-specific emissions from upstream warehousing, together with an estimation of the total floorspace occupa- tion of all GN products sold in the year. Category 11 – Use of sold products Emissions from the power consumption of all GN products, calculated us- ing power consumption measurements from product LCA samples, esti- mated average use cases and product lifetimes for main product catego- ries. For Gaming products, market data was used to define the use cases. Category 12 – End-of-life treatment of sold products Collection and waste treatment of GN products and packaging, calculated using averaged products and packaging weights by grouped market loca- tions. Categories 1 (direct procurement in Enterprise, Gaming & Consumer), 3, 4, 7 and 11 are calculated from 12 months of data, while categories 1 (indi- rect and direct procurement in Hearing) 4, 5, 6, 8, 9 and 12 are calculated from 10 months of data. Category 2 has been calculated for 9 months of data, but includes a significant lease expense occurring in Q4. Primary data, meaning energy or emissions (intensity) data, from our sup- pliers was used in categories 1, 3, 4, 7 and 8, which amounted to an esti- mated 14% of our total Scope 3 emissions. In category 1, we collected Scope 1 and 2 emission intensities per unit revenue data from key tier 1 suppliers. In category 4, we collected allocated emissions data for the re- gional distribution hubs. Category 7 included primary data collected from a sample of employees. In categories 3 and 8, data was obtained on energy use, not supplier-specific upstream emission factors for the production and distribution of the energy sources. GHG Emissions (tCO2eq) Calculation method Emission Factors 2021 (Baseline) 2024 Scope 1 GHG emissions Gross Scope 1 GHG emissions DEFRA 2,447 2,748 Percentage Scope 1 GHG emissions from regulated emissions trading scheme (%) - - Scope 2 GHG emissions Gross location-based Scope 2 GHG emissions IEA, EPA, DEFRA 6,264 5,748 Gross market-based Scope 2 GHG emissions Energy attribute-specific, Supplier specific and re- sidual mixes 7,384 1,435 Scope 1 & 2 GHG emissions (market-based) 9,831 4,183 Scope 3 GHG emissions 349,006 257,107 1 Purchased goods and services Spend-based and LCAs Ecoinvent, Supplier spe- cific, DEFRA 164,916 135,345 2 Capital goods Average spend-based DEFRA 17,131 12,632 3 Fuel and energy-related activities Average-data method DEFRA 859 1,100 4 Upstream transportation and distribution Distance-based and aver- age-data DEFRA, Supplier specific 90,245 39,932 5 Waste generated in operations Waste-type-specific DEFRA 93 230 6 Business travel Distance and spend- based DEFRA 2,630 9,605 7 Employee commuting Distance-based DEFRA 9,617 7,258 8 Upstream leased assets Asset-specific IEA, EPA, DEFRA 1,870 1,922 9 Downstream transportation and distribution Distance-based and aver- age data DEFRA 8,953 5,749 11 Use of sold products Direct use-phase emis- sions (electricity) IEA, EPA, DEFRA 50,495 41,792 12 End-of-life treatment of sold products Waste-type-specific DEFRA 2,197 1,542 Total GHG emissions (location-based) 357,717 265,603 Total GHG emissions (market-based) 358,837 261,290 Biogenic CO2 emissions in Scope 1 DEFRA 0.10 0.13 Biogenic emissions in the value chain Ecoinvent, DEFRA -4,956 -4,780 GHG emissions intensity (tCO2eq/ DKK million) Total GHG emissions (location-based) per net revenue 19.4 14.8 Total GHG emissions (market-based) per net revenue 19.4 14.5 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 76/193 Accounting policies GHG removals The metrics represent the carbon removal of 7 climate change mitigation projects from five countries, including the applicable offset method, certifi- cation standard and the relevant time period. All metrics, except from one project (Running Tide), have been externally verified by both the certifying party of the relevant carbon credit(s) and Klimate.co, ensuring the validity and accuracy of the carbon removal. Greenhouse gas removals Throughout 2024, GN has enabled GHG removals from seven climate change mitigation projects outside our value chain. These have been fi- nanced through the purchase of carbon credits amounting to the re- moval of 263 metric tons CO2eq. GN is committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050 at the latest, which will require us to neutralize any unabated emissions by the same year. For the scope, methodology, and frameworks applied in setting this target, please refer to E1-4 (Climate change mitigation targets). We plan to expand upon our current carbon removal portfolio and neu- tralize residual emissions through removal projects occurring outside our own operations and value chain. We monitor the development of the carbon removal market to assess opportunities to maximize the safety and reliability of our carbon credits. GN only partners with reputable suppliers and business partners, ensur- ing that all projects have undergone thorough due diligence assess- ments to certify quality and integrity. Projects are assessed based on indicators relating to climate impact, co-benefits, integrity, and the outlook of each project to validate the safety and reliability of the car- bon storage. All projects, except one, are certified under a recognized quality standard. No projects have been retired during 2024. All GHG removals are from technological sinks and fall under category 5 in the Oxford Offsetting Principles. This means the carbon removal involves extracting CO2 from the atmosphere and storing it in the geo- sphere, such as through direct air capture with geological storage (DACCS) or converting atmospheric carbon into rock through reminer- alization. Credits by offset method Removal or reduction Oxford category Offset method Biogenic or Technological tCO2eq Removal project 5 Aquatic Biomass Sinking Technological 7 Removal project 5 Artisanal Biochar Technological 196 Removal project 5 Bio-oil Technological 8 Removal project 5 Industrial Biochar Technological 53 Grand totals 263 Share of each recognized quality standard Credits by certification standard tCO2eq Percentage Artisanal C-sink standard 196 74% EBC C - Sink 39 15% Puro.earth 13 5% Isometric 8 3% No certification 7 3% Grand totals 263 100% Share of projects issued in the EU and non-EU countries Project country Project country Project tCO2eq Percentage Non-EU project Kenya Bio-Logical 13 5% Non-EU project India Carboneers - Od- isha & Assam 22 8% Non-EU project India Varaha - Banni Bi- ochar 174 66% Non-EU project Totals for India 196 74% Non-EU project United States Charm Industrial - 2027 Vintage 4 2% Non-EU project United States Charm Industrial - 2028 Vintage 3 1% Non-EU project Totals for United States 8 3% Non-EU project Iceland Running Tide 7 3% Totals for Non-EU project 224 85% EU project Germany Carbuna 39 15% Totals for EU project 39 15% Grand totals 263 100% Date and amount of carbon credits cancelled and expected to be cancelled in the future Year planned to retire Project name tCO2eq 2025 Bio-Logical 13 2025 Carboneers - Odisha & Assam 22 2025 Carbuna 39 2025 Varaha - Banni Biochar 174 Totals for 2025 248 2027 Charm Industrial - 2027 Vintage 4 Totals for 2027 4 2028 Charm Industrial - 2028 Vintage 3 Totals for 2028 3 Grand totals 256 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 77/193 IROs We have identified two negative impacts related to pollution (see page 52). Firstly, an actual negative impact because we utilize substances of concern and very high concern during the production processes within our own operations, which can adversely affect human health and eco- systems. The same IRO also addresses our upstream value chain, spe- cifically in terms of the negative impact of component production and the resulting substances of concern and very high concern that may be embedded in our products. The second negative impact relates to the release of harmful sub- stances during the extraction of raw materials manufacturing pro- cesses and transportation in our upstream value chain. These sub- stances can pollute water, soil and ultimately enter the food chain. Policies GN’s Environmental Policy addresses our pollution-related negative im- pact in terms of substances used during both production in our own op- erations and outsourced manufacturing. Our policy commitments in- clude compliance with all pollution-related legislation related to the use of substances of concern and very high concern, such as REACH and RoHS, and the substitution of substances with less harmful alter- natives that can fulfil the same purpose, even when not legally re- quired. This policy is supported by internal procedures on controlling and limiting the impact of incidents and emergency situations. Our Supplier Code of Conduct covers supplier requirements in terms of pollution, specifically addressing our negative impacts relating to our value chain. Through this, we expect suppliers to comply with all pollu- tion-related legislation and proactively minimize or eliminate emissions and discharges of pollution, which can have a potential negative impact on the pollution of water, soil and food. The implementation of these policy commitments is managed by sen- ior management functions in our quality and legal functions. In support of achieving our policy intentions, we continuously evaluate and test performance to ensure compliance with legal requirements. Products that are manufactured in our own operations (hearing aids) are subject to medical regulatory requirements, which include obligations on ma- terial use. For products for which manufacturing is outsourced, all sup- pliers providing products or components to GN are required to com- plete a declaration of compliance to conform with our policies. In response to the impact related to water, soil, and food pollution in our value chain, we audit suppliers on breaches of our Code of Conduct as part of our wider supplier due diligence processes, where to meet our ambitions for ongoing full compliance, major violations are subject to mandatory corrective action. Actions To address these potential negative impacts, we strive to continuously substitute or reduce our use of hazardous substances, in our own oper- ations and value chain wherever possible. All current and planned ac- tions are undertaken within the parameters of our existing product de- velopment programs, financial planning and business model. Own operations To support our policy objectives in this area, as well as moving beyond compliance with our internal policies through our health and safety processes (see pages 89-90), we phased out the use of dichloro- methane as a cleaning agent in 2024, replacing it with a more effective and less harmful alternative. As another action in 2024, at our manufacturing facility in Xiamen, we have significantly reduced our consumption of isopropyl alcohol (estimated annual reduction of 69% in liters consumed in 2024 versus 2023) by installing onsite recycling capability. In 2025, we aim to work with stakeholders in our R&D, quality and legal functions to understand additional areas where we can take actions in substituting substances with less harmful alternatives throughout our production processes. Value chain As part of our policy objectives, a key focus is the continuous evalua- tion of compliance regarding the use of harmful substances by our sup- pliers. During 2024, all relevant suppliers have completed a declaration of compliance to show adherence to our policies in this area. This has enabled a better view of any high-risk areas in our value chain, as well as a better understanding of potential negative impacts relating to pol- lution of water, soil, and food, driven as a result of the use of hazardous substances. For products for which we depend on outsourced manufacturing, our focus is on phasing out halogens, specifically bromine, choline and fluo- rine. For Jabra products, we set requirements for suppliers and verify compliance through in-house testing. We expect to phase out bromine and chlorine in 2025 (where we have set a control limit that these sub- stances cannot exceed 900 parts per million (ppm) individually or 1,500 ppm when combined) for flame-retardant parts, where phase out of these halogens in batteries will likely take longer. We have completed phase out of these substances for all other parts. We expect to phase out fluorine by 2026 for the same parts (where this substance cannot exceed 50 ppm). Our current setup ensures compliance with our control limits but does not give us precise volumes of substances used in our value chain. With the aim of being able to report actual volumes in accordance with phased in data points in ESRS E2 for substance use in the value chain in Pollution GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 78/193 future, we have commenced an action in 2024, running until 2026 to change our processes so that we obtain full material declarations from all suppliers for substances of very high concern. To support further efforts towards compliance with the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and Digital Product Passport (DPP), we have assessed the potential of integrating our systems and automation efforts to capture data on the full product lifecycle. In 2025, we expect to continue developing our capabilities in this area, such as investigating the use of new technology and applicable tools to improve data capture relating to substances of concern which are em- bedded in our products. Targets We have no mandatory or voluntary targets for substances of (very high) concern either in our own operations or value chain. Due to lack of comprehensive data it has not been feasible to establish realistic and achievable targets at this time, however we will assess whether a tar- get can be set once we have developed a baseline of total volumes used. For our own operations, we will also assess in 2025 whether we will set targets, where our key consideration will be whether setting targets will help us achieve our policy objective more effectively than our current processes based on continuous compliance and improve- ments. Moreover, we do not have any mandatory or voluntary targets for air, soil and food pollution in the value chain. Our supplier due dili- gence processes ensure that we are only working with suppliers that are compliant with pollution-related regulations as well as our Supplier Code of Conduct. Furthermore, our audit processes enable us to con- tinuously monitor and track compliance within this area. Metrics We will not report this metric for substances products or components for which manufacturing is outsourced, as these fall under the phase in provision given that these substances are added to components or products in our value chain. As such, our reported metric only includes substances added to products or components in our own operations, i.e., as part of manufacturing of hearing aids. Substances of (very high) concern in production We include all substances used in the production process within our own operations, including any applicable substances which leave our facilities. Accounting policies Total amount of substances of concern and substances of very high concern used in own operations To report the total volume of substances of (very high) concern for produc- tion sites, we have collected usage or purchasing data for the substances that are in scope at our manufacturing sites in China, Malaysia, Denmark, and Spain. The total quantities used at these sites have been extrapolated to account for the remainder of our manufacturing sites where we have similar activities. Total amounts have been grouped by their respective haz- ard class as well as the level of severity within a given hazard class. All vol- umes are reported in litres. The metrics and use of substances of (very high) concern is externally verified at all sites and in accordance with local environmental legislation. The hazard of a substance divides health, environmental and physical haz- ards into separate hazard classes such as reproductive toxicity, skin sensiti- zation, carcinogenicity etc. The severity of the hazard within each class is described by the category. Some classes have five categories; other classes have only one category. Category 1 always represents the most severe haz- ard within that class. The higher the category number, the lower the sever- ity of the hazard. Each substance can have more than one hazard class and several of the substances used will therefore be accounted for in more than one hazard class. For example, a substance that is skin sensitizing can also be carcinogenic and will be counted twice (one time in the skin sensiti- zation hazard and once in the carcinogenicity hazard ). For detailed information about the hazard classes and its categories pleaser refer to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 (the CLP regulation) or see guidance on CLP (https://echa.europa.eu/guidance-documents/guidance- on-clp). GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 79/193 Overview of substances of very high concern Hazard class Substance Amount in litres generated, used or procured during production PBT (Article 57d) or vPvB (Article 57e) * Octamethyl Cyclotetrasiloxane - Totals for Toxic for reproduction (Article 57c) 246 Toxic for reproduction (Article 57c) ** Bis(2-hydroxy-3-tert-butyl-5-methylphenyl)methane - Toxic for reproduction (Article 57c) Diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide 246 * Refers to the REACH regulation and covers substances that have Persistent, Bioaccumulative and Toxic properties or substanc es that have very Persistent and very Bioaccumulative properties. Very small amounts of substances that has these properties, are u sed ** Very small amounts of substances are used Overview of substances of concern Hazard class Amount in litres generated, used or procured during production Amount in litres leaving facilities as products Hazard - Carciogenity 215 - Category 1 150 - Category 2 65 - Hazard - Chronic hazard to the Aquatic Environment 6,041 79 Category 1 269 - Category 2 625 - Category 3 1,418 79 Category 4 3,729 - Hazard - Germ Cell Mutagenity 3 - Category 2 3 - Hazard - Reproductive Toxicity 1,135 - Category 1 74 - Category 2 1,061 - Hazard - Respiratory Sensitisation 3,096 - Category 1 3,096 - Hazard - Skin Sensitisation 6,020 - Category 1 6,020 - Hazard - Specific Target Organ Toxicity, repeated exposure 2,861 807 Category 1 385 807 Category 2 2,476 - Hazard - Specific Target Organ Toxicity, single exposure 1,326 - Category 1 6 - Category 2 1,320 - GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 80/193 IROs We have two IROs related to resource use and circular economy re- flecting the financial risks and environmental impacts of our depend- ence on a wide range of materials for the manufacturing of our prod- ucts (see page 52). For resource inflows, we have one actual negative impact, reflecting our dependence on virgin materials for our products related to our own operations and value chain, respectively. For resource outflows, we have one negative actual impact, reflecting the extent to which our current business model and product design is not fully aligned with circular economy. Attached to this IRO, we also have one financial risk, reflecting the potential financial implications of not transitioning to a more circular business model, as required by leg- islation or customers. Aside from mitigating the risk and impacts of relying on finite and scarce resources, moving towards a more circular business model pro- vides opportunities to reduce electronic waste and meet increasing de- mand for circular products and services. Policies Our Environmental Policy, covering GN’s approach to all material envi- ronmental topics across our own operations and value chain, includes a section on resource inflows, stating that our commitment to reducing resource inflows by optimizing for efficient resource use in the design of our product and avoiding unnecessary production waste. Where this is technically and operationally feasible, we are committed to introduc- ing recycled or renewable alternatives for materials used in our prod- ucts. For biological or renewable materials, such as paper and card- board used in our packaging, we strive to source these materials sus- tainably to ensure this does not lead to deforestation. The provenance of the materials we use is pivotal to the impact of our value chain, which is why we source materials with credible third-party certifica- tions, such as FSC, ISCC Plus and Global Recycling Standard. Our Environmental Policy also covers resource outflows, stating that we strive to minimize generation of waste from our business by includ- ing circularity principles, such as durability, repairability, recyclability and ease-of-disassembly, into the design of our products. The policy also states that in terms of management of products in-market or at end-of-life, we strive to recover or maintain value through services and partnerships that support reuse, refurbishment or recycling of products or components through enabling remanufacturing, refurbishment, re- pair, out-of-warranty takeback schemes and as-a-service leasing mod- els. This policy is approved by our Board of Directors, and Executive Man- agement is accountable for implementation. Our policy commitments also include ongoing work to ensure compli- ance with product recycling legislation, where we finance recycling in- frastructure according to the EU WEEE directive in EU markets. In the U.S. states, where some of our products are covered by extended pro- ducer responsibility legislation, in 2024 we established partnerships to enable end-users to send their products in for recycling. Actions In addressing our material IROs related to resource use and circular economy, we have taken considerable steps both in terms of the sourc- ing of materials for our products and the end-of-life management to limit outflows and waste. The actions undertaken in 2024, including those planned over the coming reporting period(s), are aligned with the existing parameters of our financial planning and business model. Resource inflows – materials We aim to achieve at least 50% of materials in our products to be recy- cled or bio-based, measured as part of the total weight of mechanical parts, which is supported by a number of our circularity targets (see Resource use and circular economy Content 80/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 81/193 E5-3 Targets related to resource use and circular economy. In 2024, we have achieved an overall use of 19.1% across our full product portfolio, and we are continuously investigating more sustainable materials and evaluating their potential to ensure we have a catalogue of materials made from recycled or renewable resources available for product de- velopment. Our focus has been on plastics, but we have commenced in- vestigating alternatives to metals and fabrics as well. Resource inflows – packaging A key action for GN is increasing the share of packaging that is FSC Mix certified. During 2024, we increased the share of cardboard and paper packaging that is FSC certified to 71%. New product packaging has also been designed to increase its recyclability and percentage content of recycled material. Moreover, we are also taking actions to increase the share of recycled and sustainably sourced bio-based material across the full product portfolio (see E5-3 Targets related to resource use and circular econ- omy, see pages 81-82). To take further action in this area in 2025, we have dedicated resources towards product development to include at least 50% of such materials as a percentage of the total weight of me- chanical parts, as a requirement in all new programs in Enterprise and for all non-True Wireless (TWS) headsets and mice in Gaming. In Hear- ing, we will be taking an action to investigate recycled materials for end user cases, chargers, and wireless accessories. Moreover, as noted by our action in 2024 on packaging – we will continue the rollout of FSC- certified packaging across all products to ensure more sustainably sourced materials are used. Over the next two years, we are also aiming to take actions related to testing and introducing recycled metals, while between now and 2030, we will also investigate the feasibility of implementing more sustaina- ble materials used in electronic components, such as PCBs, speaker drivers and batteries, working closely with suppliers and engaging in partnerships to drive innovation in these areas. Resource outflows - repairability An important area for GN is to pursue initiatives relating to circular de- signs of our products to limit resource outflows. During product devel- opment process, we engage with internal stakeholders involved in product development to set requirements for ease of repair, remanu- facturing and disassembly, striving to optimize our design for circular- ity without compromising on product quality and durability. While this is an ongoing process, we have taken considerable steps in 2024 to as- sess 16 of our products on the internal repairability index (see page 85), where most of them are considered (highly) repairable accordingly. While we are working towards ensuring that our products are as repair- able as possible, another key action is to also extend our repair and re- manufacturing initiatives. For in-warranty products, our repair center in Xiamen, China, repairs headsets, speakerphones, and video bars. In 2024, 99% of products returned for repair were repaired. Returned hearing aids are remanufactured at our site in Malaysia and returned to the market as replacement devices. In 2024, we achieved a remanufacturing rate of 48% for returned hearing aids. Over the next year, we aim to achieve better repairability of all our products, which is also supported by our resource outflows target (see E5-3 Targets related to resource use and circular economy, see pages 81-82). In 2024, we also commenced a wide-ranging repair strategy program to run until 2027 with the aim of full compliance with right-to- repair and sustainable battery legislation and maximizing the value of repair for end-users, business partners, and our business through set- ting additional requirements for designing for repair and developing a scalable model for enabling product repair. Resource outflows – take-back and remanufacturing Another planned initiative related to resource outflows is a take-back scheme, which we are intending to launch in early 2025. Through this scheme, we will enable voluntary returns of both in-and out-of-war- ranty products, initially limited to Jabra products in the enterprise seg- ment for selected customers, enabling responsible processing of re- turned products to limit unnecessary waste. Targets Resource inflows - materials Towards achieving our policy intention to reduce the impact associated with our resource use, we are introducing recycled and non-fossil mate- rials, which is driven by our voluntary target set in 2021 to use at least 50% recycled or renewable material in all newly developed products in 2025, measured as the percentage of the total weight of mechanical parts (i.e. plastics, metals, fabrics and other non-electronic parts). This target was set in 2021 based on internal consultation of experts in R&D, product management and sourcing. Our baseline when we set the target in 2021 was 0%. Through this target, we aim to increase the use of circular material and minimize the use of primary raw material by building a stable supply of recycled materials to apply across our product portfolio, ultimately contributing to a lower environmental footprint of our materials and more developed and therefore cost-effective recycling capabilities across our supply chain. We monitor and review progress towards this target by including a product-specific requirement during the product development process in line with this target, where products to be launched need to meet this target unless this is not feasible for technical or business reasons. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 82/193 We are on track to meet this target as for product categories where this is feasible, with three products launched in 2024 meeting this tar- get already. To further support this, we have set a target to increase the share of re- cycled and bio-based material use across the full product portfolio to 25% with a baseline of 19.1% in 2024. Resource inflows – packaging Cardboard and paper packaging accounts for approximately 34% of our total material use by weight. In support of our policy objective to minimize the impact of our resource use, we have a target to obtain FSC certification for all paper and cardboard packaging in new prod- ucts by 2025. We are on track to meet this target with FSC-certified cardboard and paper used for packaging for the majority of products in 2024. The share of cardboard and paper packaging that is FSC certified across GN by weight has increased to 71% in 2024 as a consequence. Resource outflows – repairability To ensure we are able to monitor and track effectiveness of actions taken to minimize our resource outflows, we have set a 2025 target re- lating to repairability. For this target we aim to ensure that all new products for which development starts in 2025 (except Hearing) to be 4 or higher (on a scale from 0-5) on GN’s internal repairability index. Through this target, we also aim to contribute to improved circular de- signs of our products by ensuring high repairability. We have set this target in consultation with experts in R&D, product management and sourcing, as well as with GN’s Executive Management. Processes for target-setting We will likely set further targets to address other matters related to re- source use and circular economy, such as shortcomings regarding meeting the EU Taxonomy technical screening criteria under Substan- tial Contribution for our core economic activity CE 1.2 (see pages 63- 66). As earlier stated, we expect to see increased alignment with these requirements as we work towards achieving the above-mentioned tar- gets. All targets have been set based on insights into development trends in the market, as well as considering availability of resources, materials, supplier performance, and cost considerations. All current targets and our ambition level in setting further targets in this area is to comply proactively with legislation and stakeholder expectations. As such, we determine which metrics to use for our targets based on three consid- erations: • (Emerging) legislation, such as right-to-repair and extended pro- ducer responsibility laws, which could require reporting on pro- gress in specific areas of resource outflows • Stakeholder demands, such as customers requiring further insights in progress in areas of for example repairability or durability • Effectiveness of achieving greater circularity in our business model, where targets should be in areas where the metric best rep- resents true circularity impact, as measured by progress towards current or future targets In the meantime, we track the effectiveness of our actions related to resource outflows using the same considerations. For example, the way we roll out our takeback scheme in a way that is optimized for meeting demands of customers. Resource inflows metrics Resource use associated with the manufacture of our products and packaging is a highly material topic for GN. Multiple material types, in- cluding plastics, metals, textiles, cardboard and adhesives, are required to make our products and packaging. GN purchases intermediary and finished products from our suppliers. The total weight of these prod- ucts that are used across our own product and packaging portfolio are therefore reported, including breakdown of broad material types to provide greater insight into GN’s resource consumption and manage- ment of transition risks related to critical raw materials. An estimated 20% of the materials used in our products and packaging was either re- cycled or sustainably sourced biological materials. For GN, biological materials refer to paper, cardboard and bio-based plastics used in our products and packaging. Within this, we source FSC-certified packaging and ISCC Plus-certified biocircular plastics. Therefore, we report on the percentage of biological materials that have either of these certifications. Secondary intermediary products are used in the form of post-consumer recycled plastic pellets, with varying percentages of recycled content, depending on the product. Resource inflows - products and packaging 2024 Total weight of material (metric tons) 11,178 Percentage of biological materials that is sustainably sourced (FSC) 17% Total weight of recycled materials (metric tons) 309 Percentage of recycled materials 3% GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 83/193 Accounting policies All resource inflows metrics are estimated using our product lifecycle as- sessments (LCAs), as these contain verified component-level data, includ- ing material composition and measured weight. The LCAs we have availa- ble are allocated at the item level across the product portfolio. All LCAs are third-party verified according to ISO 14067. For products currently lacking an LCA, a reference LCA is allocated. Profes- sional judgement is applied in the selection of a reference that will best represent the product or part. An uplift is conducted for items that cannot be represented by an LCA, based on the calculated average per unit vol- ume purchased or produced. For Enterprise, Gaming & Consumer products, one unit packaging per unit product has been assumed. Total weight of products and materials The total weight of products is calculated by multiplying product or part component-level weights by the total production or purchase volumes at product or part level in the reporting year. Percentage of biological materials that is sustainably sourced Product and packaging components containing biological materials and corresponding certifications (FSC) for sustainable sourcing are tagged on the component level and their weights calculated proportionately to the relevant total. Weight of secondary intermediary products GN product and packaging components containing secondary intermediary products are tagged on the component level. The percentage recycled con- tent of the intermediary product is multiplied by the total weight of the component. Resource inflows per material type (by weight) Share of recycled and FSC-certified materials Recyclability The rate of recyclable content across GN products in 2024 was 67%, while recyclable content of packaging was 81%. Materials considered to be recyclable, such as plastics, metals and cables, accounted for ap- proximately 36%, 17% and 5% of total product weight, respectively. Recyclability 2024 Rate of recyclable content in products 67% Rate of recyclable content in packaging 81% 34% 23% 12 % 11% 8% 4% 4% 2% 1 % 1% Cardboard and paper packaging Plastic parts Other parts (incl. rubber) Metal parts and magnets Textiles Cables and power adaptors PCBs and electronic components Other packaging Plastic packaging Batteries 3% 17% 80% Recycled materials FSC-certified packaging and biocircular plastics Uncertified virgin materials Accounting policies The recyclability of products and packaging The share of products and packaging that is recyclable has been estimated by weight using our product lifecycle assessments (LCAs), as these contain verified component-level data, including material composition and meas- ured weight. The LCAs we have available are allocated at the item level across the product portfolio. All LCAs are third-party verified according to ISO 14067. For products currently lacking an LCA, a reference LCA is allocated. Profes- sional judgement is applied in the selection of a reference that will best represent the product or part. An uplift is conducted for items that cannot be represented by an LCA, based on the calculated average recyclable weight per unit volume purchased or produced. For Enterprise, Gaming & Consumer products, one unit packaging per unit product has been as- sumed. The total share of recyclable products and packaging is calculated by mul- tiplying product or part component-level weight by the total product- or part-level production or purchase volumes in the reporting year. The weight is then summarized by material categories and broad product cate- gory (i.e. headsets, keyboards etc.). The summed weight for the material and product categories considered to be recyclable at scale are then calcu- lated as a percentage of total weight of resource inflows. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 84/193 Product durability For video, audio and gaming products, based on the data inputs used (see accounting policy), it was concluded that legal warranty period is the most appropriate data type for estimating products’ durability. We estimate that product durability for these products is equal to the war- ranty period at a minimum. In practice the products will often last longer than the minimum warranty period. The warranty period for these products differs, ranging from 1 to 5 years. Gaming and con- sumer products typically have 1-2 years warranty, video products typi- cally have 2 years warranty, while selected Biz, BlueParrott and Engage headsets typically have 3 years warranty. Extended warranty services can increase warranty up to 5 years for selected products. For hearing aids, we design our products to minimum 5-year durability, which takes origin in the initial requirements for the minimum storage time for documentation in the Medical Device Directive. GN is therefore required to ensure safe and effective use of its products for at least 5 years, which is documented in our submissions to authorities as part of product approval. Comparing to industry average is not possible, as these are not availa- ble and with this being the first year in which CSRD is in place, we can- not calculate an average based on other companies in CSRD’s scope within our industries either. We therefore limit the disclosure to the es- timated durability of our products. Accounting policies Key products from the production process From our three core business areas, the following products are in scope: • Hearing: Hearing aid, accessories, and packaging • Enterprise: Audio and video devices for professional use and packag- ing • Gaming & Consumer: Gaming devices, peripherals and packaging, consumer audio devices and packaging The durability of video, audio and gaming products To assess the durability of these products, we have used the following data inputs: • Durability requirements set in the product development phase of products, reflecting the intended durability of products • The legal warranty period, representing the minimum expected life- time of a product in the market • Return rates within the warranty period, in order to confirm that prod- ucts generally do not break during the warranty period • Where feasible, the nature and timing of product returns to assess whether returns reflected end-of-life of a product Accounting policies The durability of hearing aids To assess the durability of hearing aids, we considered the design require- ments for durability, which are included in binding submissions to authori- ties as part of product approval. These design requirements take origin in the legal requirements as stipulated in the Medical Device Directive in terms of the minimum required duration for manufacturers of hearing aids to ensure safe and effective use of the product. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 85/193 Product repairability GN has established an internal repairability index which assesses the ease of repairing a product. Based on the repairability index calculation, products are divided into five categories: highly repairable, very repair- able, medium repairable, low repairable and not repairable. See the ta- ble on the right. For new audio, video and gaming products, product repairability is as- sessed in the early product development phase to provide input to the project team on how to improve product design for repair. In 2024, GN conducted repairability assessment for 19 enterprise and gaming products. The analysis conducted shows that 60% to 70% of the assessed products are highly repairable (5 out of 5 on our repaira- bility index) or very repairable (4 out of 5 on our repairability index). Hearing products were not included in the formal assessment process, but returned in-warranty hearing devices are remanufactured at our site in Malaysia and returned to the market as replacement devices. The remanufacturing rate of 48% demonstrates the repairability of these products. In 2025, GN will continue repairability assessments across our full prod- uct portfolio and further integrate repairability requirements into the product development process. Index Level Description Repairability % (Key indicator) 5 Highly repairable Excellent Repairability design Highly modular design, parts are easy to replace and repair without the need for special tools. Repair process Does not damage any components, and there is basi- cally no complex process. >80% 4 Very repairable Good Repairability design considers the ease of repair, making routine replace and quick fixes straightforward and convenient. Repair process The assembly and disassembly process is less com- plex, parts are easy to disassemble and replace, with very few parts prone to damage. 70-79% 3 Medium repairable Medium Repairability design The design has some reparability, but still requires technical knowledge and tools. Repair process The assembly and disassembly process is general, with some parts prone to damage during disassembly. 60-69% 2 Low repairable Low Repairability design Poses challenges in repairs, necessitating the condi- tion of specialized tools and a high level of technical expertise to overcome. Repair process The assembly and disassembly process is complex, with many parts prone to damage during disassembly. 50-59% 1 Not repairable Impossible Repairability design Repairs are nearly impossible. Repair process The assembly and disassembly process is difficult and most of parts prone to damage. <49% Accounting policies The repairability of products To report on product repairability, we established an internal index for assessing product repairability for audio, video and gaming products based on: • the extent to which the design of the product allows for it to be re- paired, where parts of highly or very repairable products are easy to replace and repair without specialist tools, with no damage. Medium and low repairable products require technical knowledge and spe- cialist tools to repair with likely damage, while not repairable prod- ucts are (nearly) impossible to repair, with very likely damage • the time and resources required to repair the product in practice • the sum of components’ remaining value compared to the total ma- terial value In practice, the connector type between components is an important fac- tor determining the score of a product on the index. For hearing products, we have not executed a repairability assessment, but have instead assessed repairability based on whether hearing aids are repairable in practice through our owned remanufacturing setup. This setup demonstrates hearing aids are generally repairable. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 86/193 Own workforce 87 Workers in the value chain 95 Consumers and end-users 99 Sustainability statement Social GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 86/193 GN offers customers the smallest over-the-counter hearing aid yet with future-ready connectivity. The Jabra Enhance Select 500 features a “micro” design that is 25% smaller than standard receiver- in-ear hearing aids. It supports Bluetooth Low Energy Audio streaming for calls, music, and media and is ready for the fu- ture with Auracast broadcast audio for direct audio transmissions in equipped concert venues, event spaces, and transit centers Customer-centric innovation for over-the-counter hearing GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 87/193 IROs Reflecting that GN is a global company with blue and white-collar em- ployees spread across different geographies, we have six IROs related to our own workforce, all of which are impacts (see pages 52-53). Three of the IROs are related to working conditions, specifically addressing negative impacts in terms of working time, adequate wages, and health & safety. The other three IROs relate to equal treatment and op- portunities, including equal pay, harassment, and diversity. The IROs are considered in terms of all GN employees, however negative im- pacts related to health and safety are particularly relevant for blue-col- lar employees at our major manufacturing sites. Disclosures on em- ployee engagement and remediation and channels for raising concerns are relevant to all IROs, while the disclosures on human and labor rights refer to the material impacts linked to health & safety, diversity and anti-harassment. Policies for managing IROs GN has implemented several policies for managing material impacts related to own workforce. As a member of the UN Global Compact since 2010, GN is committed to safeguarding human rights and labor rights principles in its own workforce. Accordingly, GN operations and business activities are guided by the UN guiding principles on Business and Human Rights, ILO Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. GN upholds human rights principles through the implementation of policies and procedures which prevent discrimination, harassment, ad- vances diversity, and ensure fair and equal treatment of its workforce. To address IROs on working time, adequate wages and health and safety, the GN Ethics Guide outlines our employment practices which are aligned with human and labor rights principles. GN also respects voluntary freedom of association, including the right to organize and bargain collectively in a manner that is legally compliant. GN does not accept child labor and forced labor as defined by the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. To ensure the health and well-being of our employees, GN has imple- mented health and safety policies and procedures locally in accordance with country legislation and regulatory requirements. In addressing IROs related to equal pay, harassment and diversity, GN has a dedicated Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policy which outlines be- liefs and aspirations for equal treatment and opportunities for all its employees. Similarly, a dedicated anti-harassment policy promotes re- spectful culture and aims to raise awareness about bullying and how to report inappropriate behavior. GN policies are designed for all em- ployee groups at every level to eliminate discrimination and uphold hu- man rights principles. To prevent discrimination and promote an inclusive culture, GN has launched various communication campaigns, provided training, and es- tablished employee resource groups. Additionally, GN encourages an open dialogue and feedback to continuously improve its policies and in- ternal procedures. GN provides channels for raising concerns, including potential human rights impacts, and has established internal procedures for handling the cases to ensure remedy for its employees. Actions for managing IROs GN has taken several actions in response to potential negative impacts on a case-by-case basis. Depending on the nature of the impact, ac- tions are determined based on: • International and local standards and regulations • Internal policies • Input from employee engagement processes GN ensures adequate resource allocation for addressing each material impact with clearly defined roles and responsibilities. Execution of actions is anchored in GN’s existing governance struc- tures, which defines roles and responsibilities, and ensures sufficient re- source allocation. To evaluate effectiveness of actions implemented, GN conducts as- sessment and collects the necessary data for analysis. The results are reviewed by senior management to identify areas that require atten- tion, allowing for necessary amendments to be made where needed. For longer term initiatives, GN performs continuous assessments to address any emerging issues promptly. Targets set for managing IROs To measure progress of the initiatives implemented, GN has set targets for a number of IROs. To set targets, GN gathers baseline data on the current performance of the material impacts identified. GN also uses data available from em- ployee engagement for setting and monitoring target performance. This includes GN’s biannual employee engagement survey, employee resource groups and representatives, and other channels available for Own workforce GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 88/193 raising concerns. Based on the target performance and recommenda- tions from management reviews and employee engagement, GN con- tinuously identifies lessons learnt and improvements. Employee engagement We value our employees’ views and perspectives and maintain continu- ous dialogue to ensure their input is considered. At GN, we are commit- ted to providing a safe and supportive environment for all employees to report concerns. We conduct an employee engagement survey - GN Voice - twice a year where we ask all employees to share their opinions and ideas on areas at their workplace known to significantly impact the well-being, perfor- mance, and growth. The engagement survey gives employees the op- portunity to provide detailed and constructive feedback to guide lead- ers as well as the teams they are part of. Based on the engagement survey results, team leaders are required to facilitate focused team sessions where key topics are discussed, and action plans created. Fur- ther to the GN Voice survey, GN conducts ad hoc pulse checks in de- partments where major transformation takes place to ensure employ- ees’ views and perspectives are considered. Employees can at all times engage with their direct manager, HR busi- ness partner, contact GN’s global Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion team, or join employee-led employee resource groups. GN also conducts webinars, communication, and awareness campaigns on topics such as mental health, neurodiversity, and health and safety. Additionally, GN has established employee resource groups that aim to gain insights into the perspectives of marginalized employees. This includes a global network of female professionals in GN, a global network for LGBT+ col- leagues and allies, and a network for black colleagues and supportive allies across the company. The results from the campaigns and employee feedback are reviewed and evaluated by Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) to identify new initiatives and actions. Employees are also encouraged to share their comments and views on internal Teams channels and the GN intranet. Remediation and channels to raise concerns GN’s whistleblower hotline, the GN Alertline, is accessible to all inter- nal and external stakeholders for raising their concerns and reporting business ethics misconduct. The GN Alertline is a secure and confiden- tial reporting tool hosted by an independent third party. All investiga- tions are handled by designated and trusted GN employees. The GN Alertline permits internal and external stakeholders to report concerns in good faith and is part of GN’s commitment to being a cred- ible and responsible company, with a continuous focus on improving corporate governance processes. To raise awareness about the GN Alertline and to encourage employ- ees to speak up, GN regularly conducts communication campaigns, lat- est in 2024. The communication campaigns also enable GN to assess employee awareness and trust of the channels provided. In addition, guidelines on how to access the GN Alertline and report cases are avail- able on GN’s intranet and external website. Cases reported are handled by designated and trusted employees in the Group Business Ethics & Compliance department who assess the in- formation and initiates investigation, if required. Reported cases are treated seriously and confidentially ensuring a fair outcome after thor- ough investigation. All reports are handled confidentially to protect the identity of those involved, fostering a safe environment for individ- uals to voice their concerns without fear of retaliation. GN’s commit- ment to protect those reporting misconduct from any kind of retaliation or repercussions is outlined in GN’s Non-Retaliation Policy. For more information on the Non-Retaliation Policy and GN Alertline, see chapter G1 Business Conduct. Employee characteristics At the end of the reporting period, our total employee headcount is 8,145 employees. The most representative number in the financial statements can be found in note 2.3 on page 126. Our operations are widespread, with significant employee presence in key regions. The gender distribution is balanced with 4,098 males, 3,969 females (12 workers who identify as non-binary and 66 workers where we miss gender data). The majority of our workforce (7,265 employees) are on permanent contracts, with 643 of these employees are non-guaranteed hours workers. In addition, GN has 880 employees on temporary contracts. The temporary workers, who make up 10.8% of our total employees, are crucial for managing operational peaks and lows. Notably, 64% of these workers are in our Operations function, often due to legal re- quirements - or local market practices - at our production sites. Our to- tal employee turnover during 2024 was 1,234 employees, resulting in a turnover rate of 15.2%. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 89/193 Employee headcount by gender Gender Number of employees (headcount) Male 4,098 Female 3,969 Other 12 Not reported 66 Total employees 8,145 Employee headcount in countries where GN has at least 50 employees Country Number of employees (headcount) Denmark 1,841 United States of America 1,608 China 1,427 Malaysia 997 India 338 Spain 193 Germany 172 United Kingdom 169 Japan 161 Australia 156 Poland 166 France 122 Taiwan 92 Brazil 89 Canada 89 Italy 83 Korea, Republic of 73 Netherlands 72 Singapore 64 Employee headcount by contract type and gender Number of employees Female Male Other (*) Not disclosed Total Employees 3,969 4,098 12 66 8,145 Permanent employees 3,023 3,532 8 59 6,622 Temporary employees 631 243 - 6 880 Non-guaranteed hours employees 315 323 4 1 643 (*) Gender as specified by the employees themselves Health & safety Manufacturing set-up We have our own manufacturing facilities for hearing aids, while our other product lines are produced by outsourced manufacturers. Our two main standard assembly hearing aid manufacturing facilities are in Xiamen (China) and Johor Bahru (Malaysia). GN also operates regional hearing aid manufacturing facilities in Bloomington (U.S.), Sydney (Australia), Seoul (South Korea), Præstø (Denmark), Yokohama (Ja- pan), Madrid (Spain), Mumbai (India) and Toronto (Canada). We are committed to providing a safe and healthy working environ- ment for all of our employees. Our policies, actions and targets address our IRO on health and safety, specifically covering the negative impact as a result of work-related accidents at our main manufacturing sites. Policies We do not have a global health and safety policy, however all GN’s manufacturing sites have locally anchored health and safety (H&S) groups and/or more global-oriented Health, Safety, & Environment (HSE) committees. Actions We have a continuous focus on improving the health and safety envi- ronment and ensuring compliance with local regulations across all the facilities. Workplace risk assessments, employee training and audits are conducted regularly to mitigate health and safety risks and mini- mize work-related incidents. Formal processes for setting actions are currently implemented in the major manufacturing facilities in Xiamen and Johor Bahru which are ISO45001 certified. At our less labor-inten- sive manufacturing facilities, we currently do not have the same robust processes as in Xiamen and Johor Bahru. In 2025, this will be Accounting policies Employee headcount The cut-off date for reporting on employee headcount is December 31, 2024. Reporting on gender Information about gender is recorded in GN’s HR management system, Workday, where we host our total global workforce and other employee master data. Employee headcount is disclosed as “Not reported” (see “Employee headcount by gender”) when employees do not provide gender information during the onboarding process. Category “Other” refer to employees who identify themselves as non-binary. Reporting on contract type Until September 2024, the Workday system did not systematically capture whether employees have employment contracts with guaranteed or non- guaranteed hours. We have estimated the percentage of non-guaranteed hours workers in the four countries with the highest employee count: Denmark, the U.S., China, and Malaysia. Based on the analysis of the general and local market conditions, it was concluded that non-guaranteed hours employees are only relevant for the U.S. where 40% of the workforce is under such employment conditions. Employee turnover Employee turnover includes both voluntary and involuntary permanent turnover for both white-collar and blue-collar employees. The rate is calcu- lated using the total headcount of employees as the denominator. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 90/193 strengthened as part of building a global H&S governance, including a global policy. Local H&S groups in Xiamen and Johor Bahru take actions based on raised concerns, HSE management reviews, and other requirements or risk assessments. The outcome and progress of initiatives is assessed in H&S management meetings. The following covers some of the determined actions for 2024 and 2025 at the Johor Bahru and Xiamen sites. • In Johor Bahru, one of the key actions is to continually improve the HSE Management system by conducting internal audits twice a year and monitoring all non-conformance findings in 90 days. • At the Xiamen facility, local regulations require us to conduct risk assessment and annual hazard identification on a regular basis. We also increased awareness about health and safety risks at this site. As part of this action, June 2024 was “safety month” where vari- ous activities such as a safety knowledge questionnaire, newslet- ter, and drills were in focus. • In 2025, we will establish a global HSE organization with the objec- tive of defining and implementing Global HSE policies and pro- cesses and ensuring that all manufacturing sites become ISO45001 certified. This global HSE function will have the respon- sibility of implementing global HSE governance of processes with local anchoring and adoption. Targets At the Xiamen and Johor Bahru facilities, H&S policies define quarterly reviews of H&S performance, and H&S management system processes include an annual HSE target plan. We have the following targets for our major manufacturing sites in Xiamen, China, and Johor Bahru, Malaysia: • To comply with ISO standard requirements and sustain ISO45001 certification, Johor Bahru has set a target to receive zero major non-conformities for the external audit, in line with the 2023 base- line. In 2024, GN has closed external audit with no major non-con- formities, and the same target is applicable for 2025. • Additionally in Johor Bahru, an objective was set to improve HSE awareness via training for local teams and an HSE workshop for all employees. The target is to achieve a 100% completion rate for all the training planned throughout 2024, compared to a 95% com- pletion rate in 2023. In 2024, 100% of the training was completed, and the same target is applicable for 2025. • For Xiamen, the H&S plan for 2024 included a target of zero fatal- ity or major injury incidents in line with the 2023 baseline. In 2024, there were no major incidents. The same target is applicable for 2025. • HSE objectives and targets are set by the local HSE organization, reviewed by the HSE Committee with final approval by the local General Manager. In accordance with local HSE Objective Manage- ment procedure. Objectives and target performance are reviewed not fewer than once annually in accordance with Xiamen and Jo- hor Bahru HSE Management Review Procedure. HSE management in Xiamen and Johor Bahru will ensure to include the voices of employees when defining HSE targets. Employees are ei- ther directly represented at the sites via employee representatives or have various channels for raising health and safety concerns via for ex- ample employee safety representatives, immediate managers, H&S committees, whistleblower hotline, external and internal audits, local HSE representatives, regulatory and legal compliance. Furthermore, in addition to the channels for raising health and safety concerns, local sites also use employee surveys to track companywide employee health targets performance. Health & safety metrics As our health and safety processes are currently decentralized, 20% of all the GN employees are covered by a health and safety management system. This includes global manufacturing employees most at risk of being impacted, where 70% of employees based in Xiamen and Johor Bahru are covered by a health and safety management system. In 2024, there were a total of 50 work-related accidents. As a result, the rate of work-related accidents stands at 3.4. There have been no fatali- ties as a result of work-related injuries and work-related ill health. Accounting policies Work related accidents and fatalities Health and safety data is recorded and stored in the systems locally. For the purpose of this disclosure, this was consolidated manually to create a global figure. Data on work-related accidents and fatalities was collected from all the GN locations, and the number of work-related accidents re- lates to GN’s own employees while the number of fatalities relates to GN’s own employees as well as others working on GN sites. Rate of work-related accidents In line with CSRD reporting requirements, the rate of work-related accidents was calculated as the number of accidents per one million hours worked. Employee working hours were collected from local systems and GN’s HR management system, Workday. For the locations where employees do not register hours, contractual hours were used. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 91/193 Accounting policies Adequate wages The adequate wage benchmark used for comparison with the lowest wage is national minimum wage established by legislation or collective bargain- ing. Working time Policies At GN, we believe that engaged employees who thrive, grow, and per- form is a core differentiator in a competitive marketplace, and we are dedicated to foster a great workplace for our people across the globe. One prerequisite for this is to ensure effective resource management and avoid excessive overtime, which we have identified as a material IRO due to the potentially negative impact on the health and well-be- ing of employees of working too many hours. Accordingly, GN has introduced a new Working Time and Registration Policy for employees globally and a European Union Time Registration Policy for employees working within the EU. These policies are also in- tended to ensure GN's compliance with local labor laws and interna- tional regulations (such as the EU Working Time Directive). GN’s Global Working Time and Registration Policy provides a frame- work for the management of employees’ work hours to ensure effec- tive resource management and the avoidance of excessive overtime. GN’s European Union Time & Registration Policy ensures we comply with the EU Working Time Directive. As the EU Directive has been im- plemented through local legislation and/or local collective agree- ments, the rules vary in the different countries. The policy therefore serves as the main guideline, but in case local policies or legislation dif- fers, the local policies and legislation will always prevail. The Global working time policy is new to GN and processes for estab- lishing adequate monitoring are still pending. This is not considered a major risk as local procedures are in place in the meantime. Actions GN has planned to initiate two working time related actions globally commencing in 2025 and running until 2026: The Global Working Time and Registration Policy Implementation initiative and the Policy Access and Awareness initiative. 1. The Global Working Time and Registration Policy Implementation initiative covers all employees and activities and is intended to en- sure alignment and compliance with objectives stated in GN’s Global Working Time & Registration Policy. 2. The Policy Access & Awareness initiative will be established and ad- vertised as a central online hub where global and local policies and procedures are easily available for local management, HR, and re- mote leaders who are responsible for managing and overseeing employee working time in the respective locations. Targets GN has not set any additional targets related to working time, but the ambition is to comply with the Global Working Time and Registration Policy standards and to promote a healthy work-life balance. To ensure adherence to GN’s globally defined standards and to ensure policy compliance across all locations, regional and/or local policies and/or procedures are reviewed or established as relevant. Local management and HR departments monitor working hours and take corrective ac- tions to prevent breaches of local and international regulations. GN has been attentive to compliance with working time regulations across all locations, but in connection with CSRD, we have introduced a for- mal framework from 2024. Adequate wages Policies GN is committed to ensure adequate wages for all our employees glob- ally. As GN adheres to country-specific legislation and/or collective agreements, a global policy has not been defined. Actions To ensure that GN continues to provide fair and competitive pay, we continuously monitor pay positioning of all GN employees compared to identified pay ranges. Targets Besides ensuring that all the GN employees are paid above minimum wage requirement, GN has not set any additional targets related to ad- equate wages. To ensure that all GN employees are paid adequately, local HR continuously monitor and ensures adherences to local legisla- tion and/or collective agreements. The first year's control on adequate wages has been carried out from a global perspective ensuring that all employees receive at least the country's minimum wage in base salary alone. Adequate wage metrics Compared with country-specific legislation and/or collective agree- ments, all GN employees are paid an adequate wage above minimum wage requirement in all GN locations. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 92/193 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policies At GN, our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is foundational to our values and operations. Our global DEI policy out- lines our beliefs, aspirations, and targets, ensuring accountability at the highest levels, including our Executive Leadership Team (ELT). This pol- icy is aimed at addressing the identified material potential negative im- pact related to the negative impact on the well-being of employees as a consequence of lack of diversity and applies across all Group compa- nies and is accessible to all employees. GN is dedicated to regularly reviewing and updating our DEI policies to reflect evolving best practices. We will measure our progress against established targets and ensure accountability at all levels of the organ- ization. Actions In 2024 we have made significant strides in our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. • A key achievement is implementation of the new governance model that ensures women are considered in all leadership ap- pointments. As a result, women accounted for 40% of leadership promotions and hires this year • DEI awareness training was developed and launched for all people leaders • Inclusive leadership workshops for ELT and their direct reports were held to enhance inclusive leadership capabilities in manage- ment. All ELT members and their management teams have com- pleted the workshops • An inclusive language platform was successfully implemented. The goal is to have an improved and debiased recruitment process with complementary training and tools for Talent Attraction and hiring managers. Hiring managers are continuously trained in the use of the platform • Ten DEI events and internal multi-channel campaigns were exe- cuted, covering different aspects of diversity • DEI targets and ELT short-term bonus objectives were introduced focusing on increasing share of women in leadership and ELT areas where they are underrepresented, improving the fill rate for Ex- tended Leadership positions and balancing voluntary turnover across genders. In 2025, we have planned several initiatives to foster continuous im- provement and accountability in our DEI efforts. • The implementation of a global leadership program for 1000+ leaders with a focus on inclusive leadership • An improved exit interview process to inform drivers of turnover and ensure that voluntary turnover between women and men is balanced • Continuous implementation of the governance model to ensure that women are shortlisted and considered for leadership positions Targets GN has set two targets: • Ensure that 30% of Extended Leadership positions are filled by women by the end of 2030. The target is intended for leadership positions equivalent to a Mercer IPE score 56 or above. The baseline from 2020 is 20.6% women in Extended Leadership. The percentage of female employees holding Extended Leadership po- sitions on December 31, 2024, is 22.5% • Ensure that 33% of Senior Leadership positions are filled by women by June 30, 2026. Senior Leadership as defined in section 3(5) of the Danish gender balance act comprises GN’s Executive Management, Executive Leadership Team, and others with mana- gerial responsibilities reporting directly to Executive Management. The current share of females in Senior Leadership positions is de- scribed in the section below The DEI targets are measured and reported to the ELT on a quarterly basis and to the Board of Directors twice a year. Gender distribution at senior leadership In 2024, the share of females in Senior Leadership positions is 26.3% (5 females out of 19 individuals) and share of males is 73.7% (14 males out of 19 individuals). For the accounting policy see “Reporting on gen- der” in the accounting policies for “Employee Characteristics” on pages 88-89. Distribution of employees by age group The share of workers per age group is in line with our expectations where 30-50 year olds make up the majority of our workforce – approx- imately 60%. Younger and older workers make up roughly 20% each. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 93/193 Accounting policies Unadjusted gender pay gap The unadjusted gender pay gap calculation is estimated based on hourly base salary on an aggregated organizational level, as we currently don’t have centralized data for all total remuneration components for all employees. The gender pay gap is calculated as the difference between average hourly base pay of male and female employees expressed as a percentage. All active employees during the calendar year are included in the calculation. We will work towards obtaining the data in a centralized system to include employee total remuneration in the calculations for future reporting periods Adjusted gender pay gap Adjusted gender pay gap is calculated for each career sub-level applying the general gender pay gap formula. Weighted average is calculated of all the sub levels in all countries. Adjusted gender pay gap is calculated as a weighted average per country as GN operates in many countries with a wide variety of pay levels and significant gender split. All the active em- ployees during the calendar year are included in the calculation. Total remuneration ratio To calculate total remuneration ratio the median employee’s salary is measured against our highest paid individual. Total remuneration for the median employee is defined on the basis of base salary analysis where an employee with a median base salary across all GN employees is selected and remaining total remuneration components are calculated. All the ac- tive employees during the calendar year are included in the calculation. GN will work towards obtaining the data in a centralized system to include em- ployee total remuneration in the calculations for future reporting periods. Equal pay Fairness in pay is a key element in our ambition towards an even more diverse and inclusive organization. Our ambition is to pay our employ- ees fair and market-aligned salaries supporting the equal pay for equal work principle and taking into account their individual skills, experience and performance. Consequently, we regularly monitor and benchmark employee pay internally and against pay in companies similar to GN in the markets in which we operate to ensure market-aligned and com- petitive salaries across all GN locations. In addition, bi-annual surveys are conducted to gather employee feedback on compensation where the results indicate that the majority of our employees evaluate that they are rewarded fairly. Policies GN’s Remuneration Policy addresses our material negative impact re- lating to equal pay covers all employees globally and aims to ensure a consistent approach to pay across GN as well as fair pay for each job. Actions During 2024, a number of initiatives were implemented to increase the number of women in senior positions, both in relation to internal talent management and promotions and external recruitment. We expect these efforts to contribute to a decrease of the overall unadjusted gen- der pay gap in the coming years, where we expect to see the share of women in Senior Leadership positions to be steadily growing due to targeted retention, recruitment, and promotion efforts. We have met- rics in place that measure how salaries in GN are positioned in relation to the markets where we operate and whether we can identify any bias in the pay process, especially bias based on gender. We have measured progress in previous years, but in connection with CSRD, we have intro- duced formal pay gap analysis starting from 2024. Targets We have not yet defined targets for measuring the effectiveness of our Remuneration Policy, but it is our ambition to minimize pay gaps and ensure equal pay for equal work across GN. Compensation metrics (pay gap and total compensation) If job type, organizational level, and country is not taken into consider- ation, GN’s unadjusted gender pay gap in average salaries for all men and women in GN employed during 2024 was 38.29%. Several factors significantly impact this unadjusted gender pay gap, notably the organizational structure in question and the balance of men and women across different organizational levels, where GN has more men than women in senior positions that are typically associated with higher pay. Another factor also heavily impacting our unadjusted gender pay gap is material differences in pay levels across GN locations combined with our employee gender representation in various countries. GN operates globally with around 8,145 employees based in 45 countries. More than 70% of our employees are located in Denmark, the U.S., China, and Ma- laysia. The pay levels in China and Malaysia are significantly lower com- pared to the U.S. and Denmark. Furthermore, the majority of our em- ployees in China and Malaysia are blue-collar workers (50% and 89%, respectively) with corresponding lower levels of pay compared to white-collar workers. In both China and Malaysia, more than 70% of our female employees are employed in blue-collar positions, which sig- nificantly affects the unadjusted gender pay gap. 1,682 1,502 4,961 Below 30 Over 50 30-50 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 94/193 Besides the required unadjusted gender pay gap and to comply with the principles of equal pay for equal work, we have in 2024 established an adjusted gender pay gap calculation model to analyze the pay be- tween male and female employees who perform similar work in the same country. For 2024, we had an overall adjusted gender pay gap of 3.26%. Alt- hough this is a relatively small, adjusted gender pay gap, the in-depth analysis does show some areas in the organization where the differ- ence in pay between men and women performing similar work are more material, and thus actions are being taken. This adjusted gender pay gap analysis will be conducted annually. The ratio of annual total remuneration to GN’s CEO vs the median an- nual total remuneration of GN employees is 43.47. The total remunera- tion includes the following components: base salary, allowances, varia- ble pay components, long term incentives, pension, and benefits. The median total remuneration is calculated by identifying the median-paid employee and comparing this employee’s total remuneration with the highest paid individual, the CEO. More information on total remunera- tion ratio can be found in the Remuneration Report for 2024. Violence and harassment Policies GN has implemented a dedicated “Anti-Harassment Policy” to pro- mote a respectful and inclusive culture. The Policy aims to address the identified material potential negative impact on the health and well- being of employees because of violence and harassment. The policy raises awareness of bullying and harassment and outlines actions to take when such cases are observed. It defines harassment, provides ex- amples of various types, specifies channels for reporting violence and harassment cases, and refers to GN’s Non-Retaliation Policy. The Policy applies to all GN employees and activities, including interac- tions with customers, business relationships, visitors, vendor employ- ees, and interns. Group People & Culture and Group Business Ethics & Compliance de- partment share the responsibility for implementing the Anti-Harass- ment Policy at GN. GN's global Anti-Harassment Policy protects individuals from violence, harassment and discrimination. Cases related to sexual or serious har- assment reported through the GN Alertline are thoroughly investi- gated directly by the whistleblower investigation unit. Cases outside of this scope are handled by Group People & Culture with support from the Group Business Ethics & Compliance department. All cases are re- ported to the Audit Committee on a quarterly basis. Harassment cases reported through the GN Alertline are handled by Group Business Ethics & Compliance department and Group People & Culture. Actions A key initiative in 2024 was the launch of GN’s annual mandatory anti- harassment e-learning program, with the main purpose of educating all employees on identifying, preventing, and responding to harassment in the workplace. In 2025, we will create a strategic roadmap for harass- ment management which includes a governance model, company pro- tocol, incident reporting system and training. Targets Currently, GN does not track the effectiveness of the Anti-Harassment Policy, but does launch an annual mandatory anti-harassment e-learn- ing for all employees. GN also has the GN Alertline, where relevant cases are thoroughly investigated and reported to the Board’s Audit Committee on a quarterly basis. Incidents, complaints and severe human rights impacts GN continues its commitment to doing things the right way, complying with relevant international regulations and by implementing policies and procedures to promote ethical business behavior and practices. In 2024, a total of 40 cases were reported through the GN Alertline. Out of the 40 cases reported, 26 cases were related to incidents of discrimi- nation, including harassment. All the cases reported will be properly in- vestigated, and appropriate actions, including disciplinary actions will be taken. For more information on the GN Alertline, see chapter G1 Business Conduct. There have been no fines, penalties and compensation for damages as a result of the incidents and complaints reported. GN has not identified any cases of severe human rights incidents connected to GN’s work- force. Accounting policies Incidents, complaints and severe human rights impacts All cases reported through the GN Alertline are included in this metric. The GN Alertline is a secure and confidential reporting tool hosted by an inde- pendent third party. This hotline is available to all employees and external stakeholders and can be accessed on the GN Group website via www.gn.com/whistleblower and for employees also via GN's intranet. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 95/193 IROs GN has 9 IROs related to workers in the value chain, which include 8 IROs with negative impacts and one additional IRO with both a nega- tive impact and a risk attached (see pages 52-53). Due to the nature of our products, industry and location of manufacturing sites, 7 of the hu- man rights-related IROs are specific to working conditions across our full upstream value chain. These include negative impacts linked to ex- cessive overtime, inadequate protections of health and safety, lack of secure employment, non-respect of rights such as freedom of associa- tion, collective bargaining, and social dialogue, inadequate work-life balance, non-decent wages, and diversity issues in the workplace. In terms of equal treatment and opportunities, one IRO addresses the negative impact of discrimination, harassment, violence, and gender in- equality in the workplace. For other work-related rights, such as child labor and other forms of forced labor, one IRO addresses both a nega- tive impact and risk of forced labor in the area of our value chain re- lated to mining, manufacturing, and logistics. Policies GN is committed to ensuring that human rights are safeguarded and that we manage our material sustainability matters related to value chain workers. Our human rights policy commitments cover all value chain workers across all geographies in which we operate to enable identification, assessment, and management, or remediation of our material IROs. GN is committed to the UN’s principles of responsible business, having been a signatory of the UN Global Compact since 2010. Over the last reporting period, we have observed no cases of non-respect to these principles involving value chain workers in our up- stream or downstream value chain. To address our human rights policy commitments, GN has introduced a number of initiatives and due dili- gence processes to ensure we are able to engage with value chain workers or their proxies and representatives to take measures in ena- bling remedy of our negative impacts. Furthermore, we strive to set policy commitments that inform GN’s overall strategy and work in this area, ensuring we take into account the interests, views, and rights of workers in the value chain. GN’s Sustainability ESG Policy, most recently updated in February 2024, is the overarching policy document, which applies to GN and all subsidiaries, covering all 9 IROs on this topic. It describes how we con- sider social sustainability in everything we do across our full value chain. The policy states our human rights policy commitments on value chain workers specifically addressing respect for human rights, includ- ing labor rights, of workers and the abolition of child labor, as well as other forms of forced labor. It also covers GN’s commitment to pre- vent child or forced labor in any of our own or our business partners’ operations. GN’s Board of Directors, which approved this policy, over- sees compliance and receives updates on a biannual basis at a mini- mum. GN’s Supplier Code of Conduct, also covers all 9 IROs identified under this topic. It was updated in 2023 to align with industry best practices set out by the Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) and covers our en- gagements with all suppliers and business relationships for activities in our upstream, own operations, and downstream. It states that suppli- ers to all GN companies, including all subsidiaries and affiliates, are ex- pected to operate in accordance with the minimum requirements set out in this code. In addition to these requirements, more detailed standards are set out in several areas in our other policies and contrac- tual clauses. GN considers any actual or potential impacts on value chain workers in decisions to resolve issues with a supplier or, in some instances, cease all business. This is reinforced in the Supplier Code of Conduct, where failure to observe this code will require corrective ac- tion by a supplier. Long-term non-compliance may be considered a ma- terial breach of the contract and can lead to termination of the busi- ness relationship. Our Supplier Code of Conduct is managed by GN’s Group Business Ethics and Compliance department, which is responsi- ble Workers in the value chain Content 95/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 96/193 for ensuring that all requirements are implemented in our engage- ments with suppliers. To specifically address the IRO on other work-related rights, GN’s Mod- ern Slavery Statement seeks to manage potential negative impacts re- lated to links of child labor and other forms of forced labor in our value chain. It was published in accordance with the requirements of the “UK Modern Slavery Act” and further supports our Code of Conduct, requir- ing our suppliers to adhere to and reflect GN’s company values and our dedication to uphold human rights, particularly covering our upstream value chain and activities. These efforts guide our purchasing and sup- plier selection policies and procedures, which requires potential new suppliers to complete a survey to verify compliance with applicable la- bor law, including laws that ban slavery and human trafficking. Ap- proval of a supplier is dependent on satisfactory results in the survey. We also encourage all suppliers to be certified or follow the require- ments of SA8000, an international Social Accountability Standard, which prohibits any form of forced labor. Our modern slavery policy commitments is managed by senior management and compliance functions, who oversee the overall implementation with suppliers. GN’s Conflict Minerals Policy further directs action related to the IRO on child labor and other forms of forced labor and supports efforts of human rights organizations to end violence and atrocities in Central Af- rica connected to conflict minerals. This policy covers upstream activi- ties, such as mining and extraction of raw materials in our products, es- pecially considering impacts and risks related to forced and child labor. GN requires its suppliers to exclude conflict minerals originating from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and adjoining countries from GN products. Similarly, GN’s policy commitments on conflict minerals are also managed by our senior management and compliance func- tions. Actions Our approach to human rights due diligence is informed by the guid- ance laid out by OECD for establishing a due diligence process. GN’s key actions in this area involve engagement initiatives with suppliers based on our material negative impacts relating to working conditions and equal treatment of value chain workers, where most of our en- gagement with suppliers occur during audits and site visits with tier 1 and 2 suppliers. For the IRO related to child labor and other forms of forced labor, we dedicate a part of our due diligence initiatives towards our upstream value chain beyond tier 2, where such impacts and risks may occur. We believe our processes enable us to identify any related negative im- pacts on value chain workers connected to our actions, but we have also dedicated resources towards understanding which actions are needed and appropriate in response to a particular impact. For each of our actions, we track effectiveness by reviewing any material findings from our due diligence processes and engage with affected stakehold- ers and suppliers to mitigate the impact. Key initiatives completed in 2024: • To manage IROs on working conditions and equal treatment, we have conducted 46 supplier audits across China and Southeast Asia in 2024, where the major human rights-related findings were connected to occupational health and safety, excessive overtime hours, overuse of dispatched workers, and inadequate parental leave. All major findings have either been resolved or are currently subject to mandatory corrective action, ensuring that our suppliers comply with our policy objectives under our Supplier Code of Con- duct and other relevant policies. Through these processes, there have been no major findings related to severe human rights issues and incidents, such as forced or child labor. • In implementing our policy commitments on conflict minerals as well as manage the IRO linked to the negative impact of child and forced labor, GN works with Greensoft Technology who perform due diligence on our behalf focusing on 3TG conflict minerals and cobalt in our upstream value chain, particularly in DRC and sur- rounding countries. We require suppliers to exclude conflict miner- als from GN products, while we encourage suppliers to only use externally certified smelters and refiners. In 2024, GN received the requested information from all relevant suppliers. For cobalt, we received the requested information from all relevant suppliers, us- ing cobalt reporting templates (CRTs). • Further supporting our work in this area, we have taken an addi- tional action to manage the same IRO on child labor and other forms of forced labor, specifically to address the identified finan- cial risk. This includes setting up a forced labor taskforce to ensure we mitigate the risks of forced labor in our upstream value chain. To support us in this we use the FRDM (Freedom) platform which is a supply chain risk management software powered by data ana- lytics and AI to monitor tier 1 and 2 suppliers who pose a high risk of forced or child labor violations in their supply chains. These sup- pliers are requested to complete a comprehensive assessment and provide documentary evidence to substantiate the absence of forced or child labor abuses. • Finally, to aid our efforts in implementing our policy commitments and manage all 9 IROs in this area, we have finalized implementa- tion of the EcoVadis supply chain data platform, where we have onboarded 47 total suppliers across China and Southeast Asia to the platform and requested data on social indicators. This plat- form allows for additional ways to engage with our suppliers and gain access to insights connected to our policy commitments. Alongside this, we have set up integration between EcoVadis and GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 97/193 our supplier management system tools to enable us to monitor, measure, and manage our impacts and risks in this area. Planned actions in 2025: • We recognize the value of further using the FRDM platform as it allows us to track the effectiveness of our actions, such as offering detailed insights into areas for improvement with our suppliers. We therefore expect to expand upon existing initiatives connected to FRDM over the next year so that it also includes more robust supplier screening on modern slavery and conflict minerals. This includes efforts to bolster our due diligence processes by acquiring more documentation from suppliers with identified risks and facilitating further dialogues on improvement plans during site vis- its and regular audits. • Over the coming year, we also plan to onboard more of our largest suppliers to EcoVadis and introduce a standardized process for tracking supplier performance related to social indicators. We ex- pect this to allow for additional insights in managing all 9 IROs on this topic, as well as bolstering policy implementation and due dili- gence initiatives. We also intend to continue developing our data and systems requirements in this area to fully understand which KPIs we wish to measure and track to ensure we make the best use of the platform. Moreover, having recently updated our Supplier Code of Conduct against the best industry practices under RBA, we aim to further refine our work in this area to more accurately understand the negative impacts directly linked to GN in order to be able to take stronger actions in the right areas and build a more robust due diligence process. • In 2025, we also plan to undertake a human rights impact assess- ment in line with the UN Guiding Principles to enhance our ability to identify, measure, monitor, and remediate our salient human rights impacts. Engagement with value chain workers As part of GN’s ongoing due diligence processes, we engage with value chain workers via credible proxies regarding our material impacts that are likely to affect them. All tier 1 contract manufacturers are audited every year, whereas tier 2 suppliers are audited every second year. These audits are based on the UN Global Compact principles of respon- sible business and the SA8000 standard, which address our material human rights impacts and risks. During audits, we engage with management functions, such as human resources or operations, by random selection for interviews to gain GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 98/193 insights into any work-related issues, hiring practices, and other rele- vant topics, particularly considering vulnerable or marginalized work- ers, such as minorities, persons with disabilities, and migrant workers. Following the interview, an assessment is performed to ensure working hours, treatment by superiors, safety, and salary are compliant with our standards and local legislations. Where major audit findings are ev- ident, GN requires these to be addressed through corrective actions. Engagement during supplier audits in our upstream value chain in- forms our business decisions and ongoing collaboration with suppliers. We also ensure that any major findings from our engagement with value chain workers are incorporated into relevant improvement re- quirements for our suppliers, as well as to ensure that they comply with our Supplier Code of Conduct. Remediation and channels to raise concerns Addressing any relevant concerns and grievances because of our im- pacts on workers in our value chain is especially important to GN. We are continuously improving our ways of working to be able to appropri- ately identify situations where our actions may have caused or contrib- uted to a negative impact, and how we can support affected workers with suitable remediation. As part of our Supplier Code of Conduct, we outline GN’s expectations about grievance mechanisms being available to all workers in the value chain. Our due diligence approach seeks to achieve that we can assess suppliers’ processes relating to grievance and any limitations in their ability to effectively identify cases where workers are impacted nega- tively. As part of our ongoing work with suppliers on other human rights issues, we actively cooperate with them to improve their work with instituting effective remedies. Moreover, GN’s whistleblower hotline, which is available to all employ- ees, external parties, and value chain workers, further bolsters our work in this area. All investigations are managed internally by GN employees and the hotline can be used to report concerns and experi- enced or perceived misconduct. This is an important tool for ensuring that we can identify cases and implement appropriate remedies where workers in the value chain may be harmed or impacted by our actions and negative impacts. All complaints are treated with the required con- fidentiality, ensuring that value chain workers are aware of and trust these processes to raise their concerns and have them addressed. GN is also committed to dealing with any employee who takes action and/or participates in an investigation in a fair and respectful manner. This is emphasized in GN’s non-retaliation policy to protect individuals against retaliation when raising concerns. For more information on our whistle- blower hotline, see sections S1 – Own workforce on page 94 and G1 – Business ethics on page 103. Targets To ensure GN is able to track the effectiveness of our initiatives and monitor the overall progress of policy implementation, we strive to set targets that are measurable and relevant for our business. Considering our efforts in implementing the EcoVadis platform, we are making pro- gress in strengthening our human rights due diligence process to cater to all 9 IROs related to working conditions, equal treatment and oppor- tunities, as well as child labor and other forms of forced labor. Using this platform is beneficial to us as it has linkages with our existing pol- icy objectives, especially regarding our Supplier Code of Conduct. The scope of the targets includes all our business activities and cover our upstream and downstream value chain. We have set two targets in 2024 together with stakeholders from our compliance functions: • We implemented the EcoVadis supplier platform in 2023 and since then we have onboarded 47 of our suppliers. In 2024, we therefore achieved our ESG target for the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) (see page 44) connected to EcoVadis, where we aimed to acquire scorecards from more than 50% of suppliers, from whom we requested data in 2024 (baseline: 0%). More specifically, we reached out to 26 suppliers in 2024, where 17 of these (65%) are now rated on the platform. • As part of our overall work to become compliant with the new EU due diligence regulation (CSDDD), we have set a new target for 2025 to onboard at least 80% of our largest and most strategic suppliers (i.e. the largest suppliers in terms of amount of materials supplied) to EcoVadis over the next reporting period. This means onboarding at least 75 out of 93 suppliers in this group, where our current baseline is 0%. We also expect further efforts in this area to include extending our supplier audit processes to account for CSDDD requirements, as well as adjusting supplier contracts and if required updating our Supplier Code of Conduct. The targets have been set directly relating to value chain workers, such as aiming to reduce negative or advancing positive impacts, or to man- age our material risks and opportunities. We have defined a process for setting targets relating to human rights due diligence, but we have not engaged directly with value chain workers, their legitimate representa- tives, or credible proxies, in setting them, nor in tracking the perfor- mance, or in identifying lessons or improvement as a result of our per- formance. Moving into 2025, we also plan to undertake a comprehensive review of these policy areas to understand any applicable targets that can be set in relation to workers in the value chain. GN’s overall ambition in this sphere reflects our drive to strengthen our due diligence processes and efforts in tracking effectiveness to monitor our progress con- nected to impacts on value chain workers. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 99/193 IROs GN has three IROs related to consumer and end-users (see page 53). The first IRO is a risk, which relates to data privacy both in our own op- erations and value chain, reflecting the increasing threat of cyber-at- tacks and the associated financial consequences for GN. The second IRO is also a risk, which relates to product safety of hearing aids re- flecting the financial consequences for GN of failing to meet strict product health and safety requirements. The final IRO is an actual posi- tive impact related to the improving hearing health, reflecting the in- herent positive impact of our hearing aids on the health and well-being of end-users. GN has implemented several policies, actions, and targets for manag- ing product safety and data privacy related risks. As data privacy and product safety are strictly regulated by international and local laws, targets are mainly determined based on these regulations. Given the compliance-based nature of IROs, GN has not directly engaged with consumers and end-users when setting targets, tracking performance, or when identifying lessons learnt. Helping people with hearing loss As this positive impact is inherent to the core activity in our Hearing di- vision, it is not covered in a policy as such. The core action towards maximizing our positive impact is growing our Hearing business, which is reflected in our expected organic growth of 5-8% annually until 2028. For more information on our growth assumptions, see Unfolding GN’s value potential, pages 9-10. Beyond that, we seek to further in- crease our impact by introducing new product categories, such as over- the-counter hearing aids, as well as efforts to increase broader aware- ness of the benefits of hearing health provided by our products. For more information on this, see LISTEN TO THIS ™ on page 11. Finally, we seek to help people with hearing loss without direct access to hearing health due to their circumstances through a variety of prod- uct donation efforts globally. In relation to our positive impact of improving hearing health, we set a target in 2021 to help 10 million people with hearing loss by 2025. We have already reached that milestone, as by the end of 2024, we esti- mate that we are helping 11.2 million people with hearing loss live healthier and happier lives. Data privacy Policies To address the material risk related to data privacy, our Data Privacy Code of Conduct and Data Privacy Policy are created to ensure that all GN employees have the knowledge to mitigate risks and to ensure that GN complies with relevant data protection regulations as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Our Data Privacy Code of Conduct guides how all employees process and protect the consumer and end-user data that GN handles. The Data Privacy Code of Conduct also describes processes for collecting, processing, and protecting consumer and end-user data and applies to all employees in GN. The Data Privacy Policy aims to provide direction to identify and meet the requirements regarding maintenance of privacy as well as the pro- tection of personal identifiable information. This is in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and contractual agreements. The policy describes rules and restrictions for international transfer of personal data, how to collect, process, store, and inform personal data, etc. A key ongoing initiative to ensure compliance with our Data Privacy Policy and GDPR regulation is a GDPR risk assessment. As part of this, questionnaires are sent to business process owners via our compliance application. The aim with the initiative is to assess data privacy risks across all business processes including alignment with the EU AI Act, where AI systems and models are used in connection with personal data. Another ongoing initiative to contribute to compliance with our Data Privacy Policy and work procedures is ‘zero trust technologies’. It as- sumes that individuals, devices, and services that are attempting to ac- cess company resources, even if inside the network, cannot automati- cally be trusted. The initiative has resulted in significantly reducing any intruders’ ability to breach GN systems and data. Actions The following data privacy initiatives are currently being implemented: • Awareness training is central to making change and GN is imple- menting a third-party awareness training software for privacy and security. The program will be rolled out and completed in 2025, and the training will contribute to increased employee awareness about data privacy risks, how to report data privacy breaches, and Consumers and end-users Accounting policies Helping people with hearing loss This number represents the number of people estimated to be using our products on 31 December 2024. It is calculated using sales volumes of GN hearing aids and assumptions based on EHIMA figures for binaural treat- ment (i.e. whether users use one or two hearing aids) and estimated re- placement rates (where we used five years for users based in high-income countries US, Europe, Japan, Korea and Australia and eight years for other countries). GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 100/193 how to set up GN systems according to data privacy laws. In addi- tion, the software is expected to save time for preparing training and provide a more professional high quality training program. • Our Product Cyber Security Center of Excellence (CoE) was launched in 2024 and brings together experts from across GN to focus on the cyber security of GN products. This initiative builds on the ongoing work in Cyber Security and ensures compliance with the growing number of cyber security regulations being intro- duced globally. The new CoE initially supports the Enterprise and Hearing divisions specifically and will run as long as it is required to support meeting our policy objectives related to cyber security. Targets Besides compliance with international and local regulations, GN has not set targets related to data privacy. GN’s ambition is to ensure that all employees have the proper knowledge of data privacy and that GN protects all personal data. GN complies with privacy regulations such as GDPR, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act USA (HIPAA), Personal Information Protection Law (China) (PIPL), and The Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (Can- ada)(PIPEDA). GN continuously reviews internal procedures and fol- lows regulations to protect consumer and end-user data and ensure the effectiveness of policies and actions implemented. In connection with CSRD implementation, the process is formalized from 2024. Data ethics GN uses data for various purposes, which leads to benefits for GN and its customers. GN is committed to act ethically responsible with data and comply with ethical principles. By actively considering data ethics, GN intends to ensure human dignity, equality, fairness, responsible use of data, transparency, and awareness by minimizing risk of algorithm bias and discrimination, lack of transparency, lack of control, and lack of responsibility and accountability. GN is implementing appropriate GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 101/193 organizational and technical security measures to ensure that any use of data happens in a safe and secure manner. GN will periodically re- view the contents of GN data ethics taking into consideration input from employees and partners, development in trends, technology, leg- islation, and ethical data values. See GN’s Data Ethics Policy: www.gn.com/dataethicspolicy . Product safety Policies GN develops, manufactures, and markets hearing aids, which are classi- fied as medical devices. Ensuring product safety to manage the mate- rial risk related to this is fundamental to our business and we adhere to strict regulatory frameworks and safety standards to effectively man- age product safety risks. GN safety policies ensure that our hearing products meet and exceed safety and quality standards, safeguarding user health and well-being. The policies apply to all hearing aids and associated accessories de- signed and manufactured by the company, covering all aspects from development to post-market monitoring. The policies do not cover third-party accessories or components not designed or manufactured by GN, nor does it apply to non-medical electronics. Our safety policies outline measures to identify, assess, and mitigate product safety risks throughout the product life cycle. The policies in- clude details on adherence to medical device standards, quality control protocols, and post-market surveillance activities. Furthermore, poli- cies cover risk management approaches focusing on design safety, usa- bility, and compliance with regulations. We have a continuous improvement process for product safety through feedback, technological innovation, and compliance with evolving standards. According to CSRD Article 2, the 2017/745 Medical Device Regulation defines the specific safety requirement applicable for all hearing aids and associated accessories designed and manufac- tured by the company, covering all aspects from development to post- market monitoring. Additionally, our devices comply with the 2014/53 Radio Equipment Directive (RED) for wireless communication, includ- ing Bluetooth functionality, to ensure the safe and effective use of wireless technology. Actions At GN, we utilize robust internal processes to monitor key aspects of product safety, regulatory compliance, and risk management. Our overarching ambition is to maintain compliance with regulatory re- quirements, while proactively mitigating risks associated with product safety. Several product safety related initiatives were implemented in GN dur- ing 2024: • GN is exposed to regular audits and inspections to assess compli- ance with internal and external safety requirements. In 2024, we had a total of 17 external audits, including 8 external audits by our Notified Body. • GN performs and documents training and have continuous educa- tion programs for staff to stay informed of product safety best practices and regulatory changes. During 2024, we conducted training on the updated standard operating procedures in the Quality Management System. Specifically, GN’s hearing employees received training in Quality Methods and Cyber Security. Targets For our hearing products, as part of our commitment to continuous im- provement of quality and compliance practice, we strive to ensure we always comply with country-specific regulation and deadlines in rela- tion to electronic Medical Device Reporting (eMDR) and vigilance re- porting, which are both critical in ensuring timely identification of and response to potential safety issues. We have set a target on deviation response time, which we measure as the time taken to initiate corrective actions if we have three consecu- tive months of underperformance against our response time KPI. The ongoing target and baseline value was 20 days which was formally de- fined in 2024. The average response time was 16 days in 2024, which was within the target value. To set this target, we utilized a combination of quantitative analysis (e.g., incident data trends, KPI metrics) and qualitative assessment (e.g., internal audits, stakeholder feedback). Cross-functional teams in- cluding Quality, Regulatory Affairs, Risk Management, and Product De- velopment are involved in defining, monitoring, and refining our KPIs. Feedback from regulatory bodies and industry partners informs our ap- proach, particularly for adjusting compliance timelines and addressing emerging risks. Regular management review meetings ensure that the target and KPIs are continually aligned with regulatory requirements and industry best practices. Vigilance processes are aligned with national and interna- tional regulatory requirements, where specific deadlines dictate the timeline for reporting incidents. We employ a trigger-based monitoring approach for CAPA (Corrective and Preventive Actions), where certain thresholds (e.g., exceeding specific KPI limits) automatically initiate a root cause analysis. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 102/193 Business conduct 103 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 102/193 Sustainability statement G overnance SteelSeries’ Arctis Nova 5 and Companion App feature the world’s first 100+ audio pre- sets to deliver a distinct in-game advantage for Xbox and PlayStation gamers. The worldwide leader in esports and gaming peripherals expands the award-winning line of Arctis Nova headsets – purposely built for a gaming lifestyle. The Arctis Nova 5 creates a new “affordable luxury” category for the gaming headset market providing wireless freedom for Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, PC & Mobile. Customer-centric innovation for gamers GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 103/193 IROs We have four material IROs related to business conduct, all of which are risks (see page 53), reflecting that as a global company we engage in business relationships across a wide variety of geographies. The first IRO is related to culture, reflecting the financial risk of a failure of cre- ating an internal culture of compliance with codes of conduct and busi- ness ethics practices. The second IRO is related to the financial risk as- sociated with failing to adequately deal with whistleblower cases. The third IRO is related to third-party relationships, reflecting the financial risk associated with failure in due diligence of third parties we deal with. The final IRO is related to corruption and bribery, reflecting the financial risk associated with failure to prevent these practices. For all IROs, GN has implemented appropriate policies and procedures for managing material risks identified. Given that this topic is primarily compliance-based, our overarching ap- proach to managing material IROs is to comply with legislation and our policy objectives. We have therefore not set any targets, but will con- sider on an ongoing basis whether developing targets are required to mitigate any risks resulting from our material IROs. Business conduct and corporate culture GN’s Group Business Ethics & Compliance department collaborates with the entire organization to mitigate risks of non-compliance with anti-corruption laws and GN policies worldwide. Our commitment to business ethics is anchored in GN’s Ethics Guide, which outlines the re- sponsibilities and ethical standards expected of all employees and rele- vant business partners. Our standards, policies, and training programs play a critical role in preventing potential misconduct across GN. Additionally, it outlines a decision-making process that supports the resolution of ethical issues and identifies GN departments who are available to help and advice. Case studies are provided to illustrate how ethical responsibilities and guidelines apply in everyday situations. Key content includes the GN Alertline, ethical decision-making, busi- ness conduct, employment practices, compliance with laws and regula- tions, conflict of interest, bribery, and third-party management. The GN Ethics Guide is managed and updated by the Group Business Ethics & Compliance department and applies to all GN employees, in- cluding members of the Board of Directors. The GN Ethics Guide is aligned with generally accepted standards of ethical business conduct as well as applicable regulations. It is publicly available on GN's website in ten different languages via www.gn.com/documents and for employees also via GN's intranet. All employees and consultants are required to complete the annual mandatory Ethics Guide e-learning. In-person training is also offered where needed. Additionally, all new employees are asked to read and acknowledge the GN Ethics Guide as part of their onboarding. The EU Whistleblower Directive has been incorporated into Danish law and GN has established a whistleblower hotline, the GN Alertline, and implemented a Non-Retaliation Policy that ensures the protection of whistleblowers. The GN Alertline is a secure and confidential reporting tool hosted by an independent third party. This hotline is available to all employees and external stakeholders and can be accessed on the GN Group website via www.gn.com/whistleblower and for employees also via GN's intranet. Concerns can be submitted verbally and in writing. The Group Business Ethics & Compliance department serves as GN’s designated investiga- tion unit in compliance with the Danish whistleblower law. Business conduct Content 103/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 104/193 Management of relationships with suppliers GN has established procedures and policies for managing relationships with suppliers to ensure a structured approach to our procurement processes and fair behavior with business partners. All supplier con- tracts include stipulations for governing late payments and guidelines to manage relationships with our suppliers, as well as SMEs. These pro- cedures are supported by our various policy commitments, such as GN’s Supplier Code of Conduct and Statutory Corporate Governance Reports. Moreover, we actively engage with our suppliers, considering supply chain risks and sustainability impacts relevant for GN’s value chain. Our procurement process, guided by our Supplier Code of Conduct, sets so- cial and environmental criteria for selecting suppliers (see S2 Workers in the value chain, pages 95-98, and E2 Pollution, pages 77-79). GN’s Sustainability ESG policy further supports our work on ESG topics with our supplier base. As part of GN’s overall supplier engagement, we maintain strong rela- tionships with suppliers to avoid or minimize impacts of disruptions, engage in training, dialogue, as well as conducting regular site visits and audits. All suppliers are screened accordingly on social and envi- ronmental performance to further support insights into potential im- pacts and risks in our value chain. We also encourage all suppliers to be certified or follow the requirements of relevant standards on various sustainability matters, such as the UN Guiding Principles and the OECD Guidelines. To ensure better visibility of our supply chain, we have been working on implementing the EcoVadis data platform, as well as taking the steps to integrate data collection with our existing supplier management systems. In 2025, we will continue to develop our use of this platform to both onboard more of our largest suppliers, as well as ensure we use the data collected more strategically to generate valuable insights in our due diligence process (see S2 Workers in the value chain, pages 95- 98). Prevention and detection of corruption and bribery GN’s Anti-Corruption Policy outlines expectations and requirements to prevent bribery and corruption. It also provides guidance for employ- ees on how to report misconduct or seek clarification on concerns. The policy is communicated through internal awareness campaigns, e- learnings and in-person training sessions. The Policy defines the purpose, scope, ownership, and responsibilities related to the management of anti-corruption. The Policy explains key terminology related to anti-bribery and anti-corruption, among provid- ing guidance on key processes to prevent and detect misconduct. Anti- corruption and anti-bribery training is mandatory for all employees incl. consultants on an annual basis. GN has not registered any convic- tions and fines related to violation of anti-corruption or anti-bribery laws. GN’s Ethics & Compliance Program is built on the principles of “Pre- vent, Detect, and Correct” misconduct. This effort includes compliance policies, training, communication, monitoring, and audits. GN’s Group Business Ethics & Compliance department regularly conducts onsite compliance reviews across all levels of GN, with a focus on anti-corrup- tion and anti-bribery. The department also performs broader planned reviews in collaboration with Group Legal and Group Financial Report- ing & Controlling. GN has appointed Group Business Ethics & Compliance department as the designated whistleblower investigation unit, in compliance with Danish law. Oversight of these investigations lies with GN’s Audit Com- mittee, which is updated quarterly on findings and recommendations on cases received through the GN Alertline. Accounting policies Convictions and fines related to violation of anti-corruption Fines, penalties and compensation related to violations of anti-corruption or anti-bribery laws are covered by our internal policy and process on man- datory engagement of Group Legal, who therefore have visibility of any such instances. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 105/193 Q4 financial highlights 106 Quarterly financial highlights 107 Quarterly reporting by segment 108 Quarterly reporting 109 Q4 segment disclosures 110 2024 segment disclosures 111 Additional financials Q4 2024 (unaudited) GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 105/193 Have better conversations, both at home and in the office, with Jabra En- gage 55. This intuitive headset is designed for those who spend most of their day in calls or virtual meetings, providing an extensive wireless range and the high- est levels of security, for maximum peace of mind. Customer-centric innovation for enterprises GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 106/193 GN Group Revenue ended at DKK 5,019 million, including an organic revenue growth of 0% (excluding the wind-down the organic revenue growth was 4%). R&D investments ended at DKK -355 million, reflecting a de- crease from DKK -474 million in Q4 2023 due to non-recurring items in Q4 2023 partly offset by investments into the 2025 product roadmap. Gross profit increased 9% to DKK 2,672 million, reflecting a gross mar- gin of 53.2% compared to 48.5% in Q4 2023 driven by group-wide syn- ergies and strong pricing discipline. Management and administrative costs ended at DKK -467 million in the quarter compared to DKK -638 million in Q4 2023, reflecting timing of certain costs as well as the non- recurring costs in Q4 2023. Reported EBITA increased 159% to DKK 688 million compared to DKK 266 million in Q4 2023, driven by group- wide synergies and the non-recurring costs in Q4 2023. The develop- ment led to an EBITA margin of 13.7% for Q4 2024 compared to 5.2% in Q4 2023. In Q4 2024, amortization of acquired intangible assets amounted to DKK -91 million compared to DKK -90 million in Q4 2023. Financial items were DKK -97 million in Q4 2024 compared to DKK -117 million in Q4 2023, driven by higher run-rate effects from the refinanced debt, off-set by a positive non-cash impact from the imple- mentation of IAS 23. In Q4 2024, free cash flow excl. M&A reached DKK 94 million as a result of the strong profitability and a fairly stable de- velopment in working capital. Hearing division Revenue in Q4 2024 was DKK 1,850 million compared to DKK 1,808 million in Q4 2023, driven by an organic revenue growth of 7%. Reve- nue growth was 2% including around -2% impact from the develop- ment in foreign exchange rates and around -3% impact from M&A. In North America, Hearing delivered solid performance in the independ- ent market on a very demanding comparison base driven by ReSound Nexia, which was offset by the development in Veterans Affairs and a larger retailer. In Europe, Hearing delivered double-digit organic revenue growth supported by strong performance in the U.K. and Italy. The growth in Rest of World was solid during the quarter with particu- lar strong performance in ANZ and Global Partner Sales, partly off-set by a difficult Chinese market. Hearing’s gross profit ended at DKK 1,135 million in Q4 2024 (compared to DKK 1,039 million in Q4 2023). The development reflects group-wide synergies, partly off-set by the disposal of retail activities including Dansk HøreCenter and country mix. Hearing’s divisional profit was DKK 667 million corresponding to a divisional profit margin of 36.1%. Enterprise division Revenue in Q4 2024 was DKK 1,989 million compared to DKK 1,997 million in Q4 2023, equal to -2% organic revenue growth. Revenue growth was 0% including around 2% impact from the development in foreign exchange rates. The development in the quarter reflects dou- ble-digit growth in video, flat development in headsets, while the de- cline in speakerphones was significant although improving sequen- tially. The quarter also included positive growth in both North America and Rest of World, while Europe is continuing to stabilize. Enterprise delivered a gross margin of 57.5% in Q4 2024 compared to 52.9% in Q4 2023, driven by group synergies and strong pricing discipline. The divi- sional profit ended at DKK 745 million in Q4 2024, translating into a di- visional profit margin of 37.5%. Gaming & Consumer division Gaming & Consumer’s revenue in Q4 2024 was DKK 1,180 million com- pared to DKK 1,264 million in Q4 2023, due to -8% organic revenue growth. Revenue in Gaming was DKK 1,053 million, while revenue in Consumer was DKK 127 million. Revenue growth was -7% including around 1% impact from the development in foreign exchange rates. The development was driven by 16% organic growth in Gaming on top of 17% organic growth realized in Q4 2023, highlighting the success of SteelSeries’ premium and innovative product portfolio making it the best quarter ever for SteelSeries. The organic revenue growth for Con- sumer was -66%, reflecting the wind-down of the Elite and Talk prod- uct lines. Gaming & Consumer delivered a gross margin of 33.4% in Q4 2024 compared to 28.7% in Q4 2023, driven by the strong perfor- mance in Gaming and group synergies while also impacted significantly by promotional activities in Consumer due to the wind-down (Gross margin in Gaming was 34.5%, while gross margin in Consumer was 24.4%). The divisional profit ended at DKK 109 million in Q4 2024 (in- cluding DKK -24 million in extraordinary costs related to the wind- down), translating into a divisional profit margin of 9.2%, compared to 14.2% in Q4 2023 reflecting the Consumer wind-down. Q4 financial highlights Financial overview Q4 2024 GN Store Nord Hearing division Enterprise division Gaming & Consumer division DKK million Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Growth Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Growth Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Growth Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Growth Revenue 5,019 5,069 -1% 1,850 1,808 2% 1,989 1,997 0% 1,180 1,264 -7% Organic growth 0% 0% 7% 7% -2% -9% -8% 6% Gross profit 2,672 2,458 9% 1,135 1,039 9% 1,143 1,056 8% 394 363 9% Gross profit margin 53.2% 48.5% 4.7%p 61.4% 57.5% 3.9%p 57.5% 52.9% 4.6%p 33.4% 28.7% 4.7%p Divisional profit 1,521 1,371 11% 667 522 28% 745 669 11% 109 180 -39% Divisional profit margin 30.3% 27.0% 3.3%p 36.1% 28.9% 7.2%p 37.5% 33.5% 4.0%p 9.2% 14.2% -5.0%p EBITA 688 266 159% EBITA margin 13.7% 5.2% 8.5%p Free cash flow excl. M&A 94 769 -675 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 107/193 Q4 Q4 Full year Full year 2024 2023 2024 2023 DKK million (unaud.) (unaud.) (aud.) (aud.) GN Store Nord Revenue 5,019 5,069 17,985 18,120 Revenue growth -1% -4% -1% -3% Organic growth 0% 0% 1% -1% Gross profit margin 53.2% 48.5% 53.2% 49.4% EBITA* 688 266 2,153 1,200 EBITA margin* 13.7% 5.2% 12.0% 6.6% Profit (loss) before tax 503 48 1,361 343 Effective tax rate 22.1% 18.8% 22.2% 22.4% EBITDA 780 487 2,541 1,751 ROIC (EBITA*/Average invested capital) 10% 5% 10% 5% Earnings per share, basic (EPS) 2.52 0.25 6.79 1.64 Earnings per share, fully diluted (EPS diluted) 2.52 0.25 6.78 1.64 Free cash flow excl. M&A 94 769 1,081 1,092 Cash conversion (Free cash flow excl. M&A/EBITA*) 14% 289% 50% 91% Equity ratio 35.4% 31.3% 35.4% 31.3% Net interest-bearing debt 9,699 10,567 9,699 10,567 Net interest-bearing debt (period-end)/EBITDA 3.8 6.0 3.8 6.0 Outstanding shares, end of period (thousand) 145,613 145,613 145,613 145,613 Average number of outstanding shares (thousand) 145,613 145,562 145,613 138,883 Average number of outstanding shares, fully diluted (thousand) 145,712 145,579 145,712 138,991 Treasury shares, end of period (thousand) 5,300 5,300 5,300 5,300 Share price at the end of the period 133.8 171.8 133.8 171.8 Market capitalization 19,476 25,016 19,476 25,016 ROIC and NIBD/EBITDA are calculated based on EBITA and EBITDA for the latest four quarters * Excluding gain (loss) on divestments of operations etc. and amortization of acquired intangible assets but including amortization of development projects and software developed in-house. Q4 Q4 Full year Full year 2024 2023 2024 2023 DKK million (unaud.) (unaud.) (aud.) (aud.) Hearing division Revenue 1,850 1,808 7,104 6,802 Revenue growth 2% 0% 4% 9% Organic growth 7% 7% 10% 13% Gross profit margin 61.4% 57.5% 62.8% 59.9% Divisional profit 667 522 2,464 1,874 Divisional margin 36.1% 28.9% 34.7% 27.6% Enterprise division Revenue 1,989 1,997 7,205 7,463 Revenue growth 0% -11% -3% -14% Organic growth -2% -9% -3% -13% Gross profit margin 57.5% 52.9% 55.7% 52.3% Divisional profit 745 669 2,544 2,442 Divisional margin 37.5% 33.5% 35.3% 32.7% Gaming & Consumer division Revenue 1,180 1,264 3,676 3,855 Revenue growth -7% 3% -5% 2% Organic growth -8% 6% -5% 5% Gross profit margin 33.4% 28.7% 29.8% 25.1% Divisional profit 109 180 199 232 Divisional margin 9.2% 14.2% 5.4% 6.0% Quarterly financial highlights GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 108/193 Quarterly reporting by segment Q1 2023 Q2 2023 Q3 2023 Q4 2023 Q1 2024 Q2 2024 Q3 2024 Q4 2024 Full year 2023 Full year 2024 DKK million (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (aud.) (aud.) Income statement Revenue Hearing 1,622 1,719 1,653 1,808 1,737 1,792 1,725 1,850 6,802 7,104 Enterprise 1,767 1,861 1,838 1,997 1,751 1,785 1,680 1,989 7,463 7,205 Gaming & Consumer 825 814 952 1,264 815 922 759 1,180 3,855 3,676 Total 4,214 4,394 4,443 5,069 4,303 4,499 4,164 5,019 18,120 17,985 Organic growth Hearing 15% 15% 15% 7% 14% 10% 10% 7% 13% 10% Enterprise -3% -23% -13% -9% 0% -3% -7% -2% -13% -3% Gaming & Consumer 17% -4% 3% 6% 0% 12% -20% -8% 5% -5% Total 7% -8% 0% 0% 5% 5% -4% 0% -1% 1% Gross profit Hearing 979 1,039 1,019 1,039 1,089 1,131 1,103 1,135 4,076 4,458 Enterprise 883 986 976 1,056 963 977 927 1,143 3,901 4,010 Gaming & Consumer 179 197 229 363 223 226 253 394 968 1,096 Total 2,041 2,222 2,224 2,458 2,275 2,334 2,283 2,672 8,945 9,564 Gross profit margin Hearing 60.4% 60.4% 61.6% 57.5% 62.7% 63.1% 64.0% 61.4% 59.9% 62.8% Enterprise 50.0% 53.0% 53.1% 52.9% 55.0% 54.7% 55.2% 57.5% 52.3% 55.7% Gaming & Consumer 21.7% 24.2% 24.1% 28.7% 27.4% 24.5% 33.3% 33.4% 25.1% 29.8% Total 48.4% 50.6% 50.1% 48.5% 52.9% 51.9% 54.8% 53.2% 49.4% 53.2% Divisional profit Hearing 392 483 477 522 599 598 600 667 1,874 2,464 Enterprise 518 620 635 669 613 618 568 745 2,442 2,544 Gaming & Consumer 6 25 21 180 37 23 30 109 232 199 Total 916 1,128 1,133 1,371 1,249 1,239 1,198 1,521 4,548 5,207 Divisional margin Hearing 24.2% 28.1% 28.9% 28.9% 34.5% 33.4% 34.8% 36.1% 27.6% 34.7% Enterprise 29.3% 33.3% 34.5% 33.5% 35.0% 34.6% 33.8% 37.5% 32.7% 35.3% Gaming & Consumer 0.7% 3.1% 2.2% 14.2% 4.5% 2.5% 4.0% 9.2% 6.0% 5.4% Total 21.7% 25.7% 25.5% 27.0% 29.0% 27.5% 28.8% 30.3% 25.1% 29.0% GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 109/193 Quarterly reporting Q1 2023 Q2 2023 Q3 2023 Q4 2023 Q1 2024 Q2 2024 Q3 2024 Q4 2024 Full year 2023 Full year 2024 DKK million (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (aud.) (aud.) Other Group information Depreciation and software amortization -109 -113 -108 -221 -101 -99 -96 -92 -551 -388 EBITDA 282 444 538 487 639 473 649 780 1,751 2,541 EBITA 173 331 430 266 538 374 553 688 1,200 2,153 Amortization and impairment of acquired intangible assets -102 -101 -99 -90 -91 -89 -94 -91 -392 -365 Profit (loss) -43 43 227 39 266 112 289 392 266 1,059 Free cash flow excl. M&A -578 622 279 769 46 155 786 94 1,092 1,081 Acquisitions and divestments of companies -36 - 441 - -35 - 106 29 405 100 Free cash flow -614 622 720 769 11 155 892 123 1,497 1,181 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 110/193 Income statement Hearing Enterprise Gaming & Consumer Group Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Q4 2024 Q4 2023 (DKK million) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) Revenue 1,850 1,808 1,989 1,997 1,180 1,264 5,019 5,069 Production costs -715 -769 -846 -941 -786 -901 -2,347 -2,611 Gross profit 1,135 1,039 1,143 1,056 394 363 2,672 2,458 Selling and distribution costs -468 -517 -398 -387 -285 -183 -1,151 -1,087 Divisional profit 667 522 745 669 109 180 1,521 1,371 Development costs -355 -474 Management and administrative expenses -467 -638 Other operating income and costs, net -11 7 EBITA* 688 266 Amortization and impairment of acquired intangible assets -91 -90 Gain (loss) on divestment of operations etc. 4 1 Operating profit (loss) 601 177 Share of profit (loss) in associates -1 -12 Financial items -97 -117 Profit (loss) before tax 503 48 Tax on profit (loss) -111 -9 Profit (loss) for the period 392 39 Additional information Hearing Enterprise Gaming & Consumer Group Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Q4 2024 Q4 2023 (DKK million) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) (unaud.) Revenue distributed geographically Europe 485 451 1,118 1,085 420 540 2,023 2,076 North America 901 996 443 460 652 559 1,996 2,015 Rest of World 464 361 428 452 108 165 1,000 978 Revenue 1,850 1,808 1,989 1,997 1,180 1,264 5,019 5,069 Revenue growth composition Organic growth 7% 7% -2% -9% -8% 6% 0% 0% FX growth -2% -3% 2% -2% 1% -3% 0% -3% M&A growth -3% -4% 0% 0% 0% 0% -1% -1% Revenue growth 2% 0% 0% -11% -7% 3% -1% -4% Incurred development costs -690 -394 Capitalized development costs 432 208 Amortization, impairment and depreciation of devel- opment projects** -97 -232 Expensed development costs -355 -418 EBITDA 780 487 Depreciation and software amortization -92 -221 EBITA* 688 266 EBITA margin 13.7% 5.2% Number of full-time employees, end of period 7,347 7,165 * Excluding gain (loss) on divestments of operations etc. and amortization of acquired intangible assets but including amortization of de- velopment projects and software developed in-house. ** Does not include amortization of acquired intangible assets, cf. definition of EBITA. Q4 segment disclosures GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 111/193 Income statement Hearing Enterprise Gaming & Consumer Group (DKK million) 2024 2023 2024 2023 2024 2023 2024 2023 Revenue 7,104 6,802 7,205 7,463 3,676 3,855 17,985 18,120 Production costs -2,646 -2,726 -3,195 -3,562 -2,580 -2,887 -8,421 -9,175 Gross profit 4,458 4,076 4,010 3,901 1,096 968 9,564 8,945 Selling and distribution costs -1,994 -2,202 -1,466 -1,459 -897 -736 -4,357 -4,397 Divisional profit 2,464 1,874 2,544 2,442 199 232 5,207 4,548 Development costs -1,491 -1,546 Management and administrative expenses -1,543 -1,810 Other operating income and costs, net -20 8 EBITA* 2,153 1,200 Amortization and impairment of acquired intangible assets -365 -392 Gain (loss) on divestment of operations etc. 72 61 Operating profit (loss) 1,860 869 Share of profit (loss) in associates -7 -64 Financial items -492 -462 Profit (loss) before tax 1,361 343 Tax on profit (loss) -302 -77 Profit (loss) for the period 1,059 266 Additional information Hearing Enterprise Gaming & Consumer Group (DKK million) 2024 2023 2024 2023 2024 2023 2024 2023 Revenue distributed geographically Europe 1,847 1,887 3,938 4,167 1,292 1,430 7,077 7,484 North America 3,616 3,407 1,648 1,679 1,846 1,753 7,110 6,839 Rest of World 1,641 1,508 1,619 1,617 538 672 3,798 3,797 Revenue 7,104 6,802 7,205 7,463 3,676 3,855 17,985 18,120 Revenue growth composition Organic growth 10% 13% -3% -13% -5% 5% 1% -1% FX growth -2% -3% 0% -1% 0% -3% 0% -2% M&A growth -4% -1% 0% 0% 0% 0% -2% 0% Revenue growth 4% 9% -3% -14% -5% 2% -1% -3% Incurred development costs -1,909 -1,722 Capitalized development costs 1,015 951 Amortization, impairment and depreciation of devel- opment projects** -597 -775 Expensed development costs -1,491 -1,546 EBITDA 2,541 1,751 Depreciation and software amortization -388 -551 EBITA* 2,153 1,200 EBITA margin 12.0% 6.6% Number of full-time employees, end of period 7,347 7,165 * Excluding gain (loss) on divestments of operations etc. and amortization of acquired intangible assets but including amortization of de- velopment projects and software developed in -house. ** Does not include amortization of acquired intangible assets, cf. definition of EBITA. 2024 segment disclosures GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 112/193 Consolidated income statement 113 Consolidated Statement of comprehensive income 113 Consolidated balance sheet at December 31 114 Consolidated statement of cash flow 115 Consolidated statement of equity 116 Consolidated f inancial statements GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 112/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 113/193 DKK million Note 2024 2023 Revenue 2.2 17,985 18,120 Production costs 2.3, 3.4, 3.6 -8,421 -9,175 Gross profit 9,564 8,945 Development costs 2.3, 3.4 -1,491 -1,546 Selling and distribution costs 2.3, 3.4 -4,357 -4,397 Management and administrative expenses 2.3, 3.4, 5.6 -1,543 -1,810 Other operating income and costs, net -20 8 EBITA* 2,153 1,200 Amortization and impairment of acquired intangible assets 2.5, 3.4 -365 -392 Gain (loss) on divestment of operations etc. 5.1 72 61 Operating profit (loss) 1,860 869 Share of profit (loss) in associates 5.4 -7 -64 Financial income 4.6 358 164 Financial expenses 4.6 -850 -626 Profit (loss) before tax 1,361 343 Tax on profit (loss) 2.4 -302 -77 Profit (loss) for the year 1,059 266 Attributable to: Non-controlling interests 71 38 Shareholders in GN Store Nord A/S 4.1 988 228 Earnings per share (EPS) Earnings per share (EPS) 4.1 6.79 1.64 Earnings per share fully diluted (EPS diluted) 4.1 6.78 1.64 * Please refer to Key Ratio Definitions on page 167 for definition of EBITA DKK million Note 2024 2023 Profit (loss) for the year 1,059 266 Other comprehensive income Items that will not be reclassified to the income statement Actuarial gains (losses) -52 -2 Tax relating to actuarial gains (losses) 2.4 13 -2 Items that may be reclassified subsequently to the income statement Adjustment of cash flow hedges 4.3 105 51 Foreign exchange adjustments, etc. 269 -216 Tax relating to other comprehensive income 2.4 -23 -11 Other comprehensive income for the year, net of tax 312 -180 Total comprehensive income for the year 1,371 86 Attributable to: Non-controlling interests 71 38 Shareholders in GN Store Nord A/S 1,300 48 Consolidated income statement Consolidated statement of comprehensive income GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 114/193 DKK million Note 2024 2023 Assets Intangible assets 3.1, 3.4 17,318 16,925 Property, plant and equipment 3.2, 3.3, 3.4 1,088 1,036 Investments in associates 5.4 296 276 Receivables from associates 4.4 211 168 Deferred tax assets 2.4 566 494 Other non-current assets 3.5, 4.4, 5.4 1,804 1,559 Total non-current assets 21,283 20,458 Inventories 3.6 2,585 2,657 Trade receivables 3.7, 4.4 4,673 4,442 Tax receivables 289 69 Other receivables 4.4 801 854 Cash and cash equivalents 980 2,162 Total current assets 9,328 10,184 Total assets 30,611 30,642 DKK million Note 2024 2023 Equity and Liabilities Share capital 604 604 Other reserves -3,440 -3,798 Retained earnings 13,660 12,781 Total equity 10,824 9,587 Bank loans and issued bonds, non-current 4.2, 4.4, 4.5 9,036 3,527 Lease liabilities, non-current 3.3, 4.4, 4.5 362 211 Pension obligations 30 9 Provisions, non-current 3.8 218 144 Deferred tax liabilities 2.4 1,036 745 Other non-current liabilities 4.3, 4.4, 4.5 954 777 Total non-current liabilities 11,636 5,413 Bank loans and issued bonds, current 4.2, 4.4, 4.5 1,746 9,674 Overdraft facilities 4.2, 4.4, 4.5 258 - Lease liabilities, current 3.3, 4.4, 4.5 85 87 Trade payables 1,627 1,719 Tax payables 280 229 Provisions, current 3.8 305 340 Other current liabilities 4.3, 4.4 3,850 3,593 Total current liabilities 8,151 15,642 Total equity and liabilities 30,611 30,642 Consolidated balance sheet at December 31 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 115/193 DKK million Note 2024 2023 Operating activities Operating profit (loss) 1,860 869 Depreciation, amortization and impairment 3.4 1,379 1,729 Other non-cash adjustments 5.5 -113 124 Cash flow from operating activities before changes in working capital 3,126 2,722 Change in inventories 85 756 Change in receivables -163 -490 Change in trade payables and other payables 254 172 Total changes in working capital 176 438 Cash flow from operating activities before financial items and tax 3,302 3,160 Interest received 92 81 Interest etc. paid -434 -428 Tax paid, net 2.4 -235 -175 Cash flow from operating activities 2,725 2,638 Investing activities Development projects 3.1 -1,015 -951 Investments in intangible assets, excluding development projects 3.1 -269 -388 Investments in property, plant and equipment 3.2 -120 -93 Investments in other non-current assets -189 -131 Disposal of intangible assets and property, plant and equipment - 17 Contingent consideration paid -51 - Acquisition of companies/operations 5.1 -35 -36 Divestment of companies/operations 5.1 135 441 Cash flow from investing activities -1,544 -1,141 Cash flow from operating and investing activities (free cash flow) 1,181 1,497 DKK million Note 2024 2023 Financing activities Proceeds from borrowings 4.5 - 254 Repayment of bank loans 4.5 -1,086 -3,273 Repayment of issued bonds 4.5 -1,406 - Repayment of lease liabilities 4.5 -99 - Repayment of other non-current liabilities 4.5 -32 - Paid dividends - -32 Share-based payment (exercised) - 47 Proceeds from share placement, net of costs - 2,621 Drawn/(repaid) on credit facilities 4.5 258 - Other adjustments - 71 Cash flow from financing activities -2,365 -312 Net cash flow -1,184 1,185 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 2,162 990 Adjustment foreign currency, cash and cash equivalents 2 -13 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period 980 2,162 Consolidated statement of cash flows GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 116/193 Consolidated statement of changes in equity 2024 Other reserves DKK million Share capital Foreign exchange adjustments Hedging reserve Treasury shares Proposed dividends for the year Retained earnings Equity, shareholders in GN Store Nord A/S Non-controlling interests Total equity Balance at January 1, 2024 604 -1,062 -11 -2,725 - 12,781 9,587 - 9,587 Profit (loss) for the period - - - - - 988 988 71 1,059 Actuarial gains (losses) - - - - - -52 -52 - -52 Tax relating to actuarial gains (losses) - - - - - 13 13 - 13 Adjustment of cash flow hedges - - 105 - - - 105 - 105 Tax relating to cash flow hedges - - -23 - - - -23 - -23 Foreign exchange adjustments, etc. - 276 - - - -7 269 - 269 Other comprehensive income for the year - 276 82 - - -46 312 - 312 Total comprehensive income for the year - 276 82 - - 942 1,300 71 1,371 Share-based payment (granted) - - - - - -36 -36 - -36 Fair value adjustment of put option liability - - - - - -27 -27 -71 -98 Balance at December 31, 2024 604 -786 71 -2,725 - 13,660 10,824 - 10,824 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 117/193 Consolidated statement of changes in equity (continued) 2023 Other reserves DKK million Share capital Foreign exchange adjustments Hedging reserve Treasury shares Proposed dividends for the year Retained earnings Equity, shareholders in GN Store Nord A/S Non-controlling in- terests Total equity Balance at January 1, 2023 549 -846 -51 -3,366 - 10,514 6,800 - 6,800 Profit (loss) for the period - - - - - 228 228 38 266 Actuarial gains (losses) - - - - - -2 -2 - -2 Tax relating to actuarial gains (losses) - - - - - -2 -2 - -2 Adjustment of cash flow hedges - - 51 - - - 51 - 51 Foreign exchange adjustments, etc. - -216 - - - - -216 - -216 Tax relating to other comprehensive income - - -11 - - -11 - -11 Other comprehensive income for the year - -216 40 - - -4 -180 - -180 Total comprehensive income for the year - -216 40 - - 224 48 38 86 Increase in share capital, net of costs 55 - - - - 2,021 2,076 - 2,076 Share-based payment (granted) - - - - - 18 18 - 18 Share-based payment (exercised) - - - 96 - -69 27 - 27 Tax related to share-based incentive plans - - - - - 2 2 - 2 Sale of treasury shares - - - 545 - - 545 - 545 Fair value adjustment of put option liability - - - - - 71 71 -6 65 Paid dividends - - - - - - - -32 -32 Balance at December 31, 2023 604 -1,062 -11 -2,725 - 12,781 9,587 - 9,587 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 118/193 Section 1 - Basis of preparation Overview of the financial accounting policies in general and an introduction to Management's key accounting estimates and judgments. 1.1 Material accounting policies 119 1.2 Key accounting estimates and judgements 121 1.3 Non-IFRS measures 121 Section 2 - Results of the year Insights into the results for the year, including operating segments, employee costs and taxes. 2.1 Segment disclosures 123 2.2 Revenue and geographical information 124 2.3 Staff costs and management remuneration 126 2.4 Tax 127 2.5 Income statement classified by function 129 Section 3 - Operating assets and liabilities Insights into the assets that form the basis for the activities in GN Store Nord, and the related liabilities. Most of these are included in invested capital and some in net working capital. 3.1 Intangible assets 131 3.2 Property, plant and equipment 135 3.3 Leases 137 3.4 Depreciation, amortization and impairment 138 3.5 Other non-current assets 139 3.6 Inventories 141 3.7 Trade receivables 142 3.8 Provisions 143 Section 4 - Capital structure and financing items Insight into GN Store Nord's capital structure and financial items as well as financial risks. 4.1 Share capital and capital structure 145 4.2 Financial risks 146 4.3 Derivatives 150 4.4 Financial instruments 151 4.5 Liabilities from financing activities 155 4.6 Financial income and expenses 156 Section 5 - Other disclosures Statutory notes and other disclosures. 5.1 Acquisition and divestment of companies and operations 158 5.2 Share-based incentive plans 160 5.3 Contingent liabilities 163 5.4 Investments in associates 164 5.5 Other non-cash adjustments 164 5.6 Fees to statutory auditors 164 5.7 Related parties 164 5.8 Events after the reporting period 164 Consolidated notes GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 118/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 119/193 1.1 Material accounting policies The annual report of GN has been prepared in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the EU and the Danish dis- closure requirements for annual reports of listed companies. The notes to the annual report have been updated compared to prior year in certain instances to provide a more accurate representation. In such cases, comparative figures have been adjusted accordingly. The annual report has been prepared in accordance with the historical cost convention, as modified by the revaluation of certain financial instruments (including derivative financial instruments) at fair value. The description of the accounting policies in the individual notes is part of the complete description of GN’s accounting policies. Defining materiality The annual report is based on the concept of materiality, to ensure that the content is material and relevant to the users. GN provides the specific disclosures required by IFRS unless the information is consid- ered immaterial. Consolidated Financial Statements The consolidated financial statements comprise the financial state- ments of the parent company, GN Store Nord A/S, and its controlled subsidiaries in accordance with the Group’s accounting policies. Intra- group transactions, -shareholdings, -balances, -dividends, and realized and unrealized gains and losses on intra-group transactions are elimi- nated. Control is achieved when GN is exposed or has rights to variable re- turns from its involvement with the investee and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the investee. Generally, there is a presumption that a majority of voting rights results in con- trol. To support this presumption and when GN has less than a major- ity of the voting or similar rights of an investee, GN considers all rele- vant facts and circumstances in assessing whether it has power over an investee. Group companies are listed on pages 165-166. Enterprises that are not subsidiaries, but where GN exercises significant influence, but where it does not have power to govern the financial and operating policies, are considered associates. When assessing whether GN exercises control or significant influence, potential voting rights that are substantive and options on acquisition of additional ownership interests are taken into account. Foreign Currency Translation Functional Currency and Presentation Currency The consolidated financial statements are presented in Danish kroner (DKK), which is the functional currency and presentation currency of the parent company. Translation of Transactions and Balances Transactions denominated in foreign currencies are translated to the functional currency at the exchange rates at the transaction date. For- eign exchange differences arising between the exchange rates at the transaction date and at the date of payment are recognized in the in- come statement as financial income or financial expenses. Receivables, payables and other monetary items denominated in foreign currencies are translated at the exchange rates at the balance sheet date. The dif- ference between the exchange rates at the balance sheet date and at the date at which the receivable or payable arose or was recognized in the latest annual report is recognized in the income statement as fi- nancial income or financial expense. Translation of Subsidiaries On recognition in the consolidated financial statements of foreign enti- ties with a functional currency other than the Group’s presentation currency, the income statements are translated at the exchange rates at the transaction date, and the balance sheet items are translated at the exchange rates at the balance sheet date. An average exchange rate for the month is used as the exchange rate at the transaction date to the extent that this does not significantly distort the presentation of the underlying transactions. Foreign exchange differences arising on translation of the opening balance of equity of such enterprises at the exchange rates at the balance sheet date and on translation of the in- come statements from the exchange rates at the transaction date to the exchange rates at the balance sheet date are recognized in other comprehensive income. Foreign exchange adjustment of balances with foreign entities that are considered part of the investment in the entity is recognized in other comprehensive income in the consolidated financial statements under a separate translation reserve. Cash Flow Statement The cash flow statement is presented using the indirect method based on the operating profit (loss). The cash flow statement shows the cash flow from operating, investing and financing activities for the year and the year’s changes in cash and cash equivalents as well as the cash and cash equivalents at the beginning and end of the year. The cash flow effect of acquisitions and disposals of enterprises is shown separately in cash flows from investing activities. Cash flow from acquired enter- prises is recognized in the cash flow statement from the acquisition date. Cash flow from disposed of enterprises is recognized up until the disposal date. Cash flow from operating activities comprises cash flow from the year’s operations adjusted for non-cash operating items and changes in Section 1 - Basis of preparation GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 120/193 working capital. Working capital comprises inventories, receivables and other operating assets, as well as trade payables and other operating liabilities. Cash flow from investing activities comprises payments in connection with acquisitions and disposals of enterprises and activities, acquisi- tions and disposals of intangible assets, property, plant and equipment and other non-current assets and acquisitions and disposals of securi- ties that are not included in cash and cash equivalents. Cash flow from financing activities comprises changes in the size or composition of the share capital and related costs as well as the raising of loans, repayment of interest-bearing debt, payment of the principal portion of lease liabilities, acquisition and disposal of treasury shares and payment of dividends to shareholders. Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash and short-term marketable securities with a term of three months or less and are subject to an in- significant risk of changes in value. IXBRL reporting GN is required to file its annual report in the European Single Elec- tronic Format (‘ESEF’). The primary statements and notes in the con- solidated financial statements are tagged using inline eXtensible Busi- ness Reporting Language (iXBRL). The iXBRL tags comply with the ESEF taxonomy, which is included in the ESEF Regulation and devel- oped based on the IFRS taxonomy published by the IFRS Foundation. Where a financial statement line item is not defined in the ESEF taxon- omy, an extension to the taxonomy has been created. The annual report submitted to the Danish Financial Supervisory Au- thority consists of the XHTML document together with certain tech- nical files, all included in a file named GNStoreNord-2024-12-31-en.zip. New standards, interpretations and amendments adopted by GN GN has adopted all relevant new or revised International Financial Re- porting Standards and IFRIC Interpretations with effective date Janu- ary 1, 2024, with the following being the most relevant for GN: Presentation of Financial Statements – amendments to IAS 1 The new or revised standards and interpretations did not affect recog- nition and measurement materially nor did they result in any material changes to disclosures in the notes. Apart from this, the annual report is presented in accordance with the accounting policies applied in pre- vious years’ annual reports. Accounting standards not yet adopted A number of new standards, amendments to standards and interpreta- tions are effective for annual periods beginning after January 1, 2025 and have not been applied in preparing this annual report. GN will adopt new standards and interpretations as of the effective dates: • The Effects of Changes in Foreign Exchange Rates – amendments to IAS 21 (effective date January 1, 2025) • Amendments to the Classification and Measurement of Financial Instruments – amendments to IFRS 9 and IFRS 7 (effective January 1, 2026) • Annual Improvements Volume 11 (effective January 1, 2026) • IFRS 18, Presentation and Disclosure in Financial Statements (ef- fective January 1, 2027) IFRS 18, Presentation and Disclosure in Financial Statements IFRS 18 includes requirements for the presentation and disclosure of information in financial statements. The Statement of Profit or Loss will be presented into five categories, operating, investing, financing, income tax and discontinued operations categories based on an assessment of GN’s business activities. The standard also includes requirements related to aggregation and dis- aggregation of information in the primary financial statements and notes. Further, IFRS 18 requires GN to identify its management-de- fined performance measures (MPM) as detailed disclosures need to be included in the notes for them. This should enable user of financial statements to understand the aspect of financial performance that in management’s view is communicated by a MPM and how the MPM compares with measures defined by IFRS Accounting Standards. The Group is assessing the impact of IFRS 18. None of the other new standards, amendments to standards and inter- pretations are expected to have material impact on the financial state- ments of GN. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 121/193 1.2 Key accounting estimates and judgements The recognition of certain items of income and expenses and the deter- mination of the carrying amount of certain assets and liabilities implies making accounting estimates and judgements. Key accounting estimate The estimates used are based on assumptions, which by Management are deemed reliable, but by nature are associated with uncertainty. The assumptions may be incomplete or incorrect, and unexpected events or circumstances may arise. Accordingly, the Group is subject to risks and uncertainties that may lead to a situation where actual results dif- fer from estimates. We believe that our estimates are the most likely outcome of future events. Key accounting judgement Key accounting judgements are made when applying accounting poli- cies. The application of the Group’s accounting policies may require Management to make judgements that can have a significant impact on the amounts recognized in the consolidated financial statements. The impact assessment is based on a combination of quantitative and qualitative measures, such as outcome expectations, complexity and subjectivity to indicating the impact to the consolidated financial state- ments. No new areas have been categorized as key accounting estimates and judgements, compared to last year, but a few areas are no longer con- sidered key accounting estimates and judgements. A description of key accounting estimates and judgements is included in the relevant notes: Note Key accounting estimates Estimate/judgement and judgements 2.2 Revenue and geographical Revenue recognition Estimate information 2.4 Tax Deferred tax assets Judgement valuation 3.1 Intangible assets Recognition and measure-Estimate ment of goodwill and devel-opment projects 3.5 Other non-current assets Ownership interest in Judgementdispensers 5.1 Acquisition and divest-Fair value of identifiable as-Estimate ment of companies and oper-sets and liabilities in busi-ations ness combinations 1.3 Non-IFRS measures This Annual Report includes financial measures which are not defined by IFRS Accounting Standards. These measures are included because they are used by Management to analyze and manage the business and to provide stakeholders with useful information on the Group’s finan- cial position, performance and development. Please refer to Key Ratio Definitions on page 167 for a definition of these measures. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 122/193 2.1 Segment disclosures 123 2.2 Revenue and geographical information 124 2.3 Staff costs and management remuneration 126 2.4 Tax 127 2.5 Income statement classified by function 129 Section 2 - Results of the year GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 122/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 123/193 2.1 Segment disclosures The segments are aligned with the internal reporting structure of the Group. Effective January 1, 2024, the Group’s segment reporting will now oc- cur on the following three divisions: • Hearing; • Enterprise; and • Gaming & Consumer Management has identified Hearing, Enterprise, and Gaming & Con- sumer as key markets and therefore the reportable segments in the Group, as this reflects the management of activities, results and the use of resources. Prior to January 1, 2024, GN Hearing and GN Audio were the reporta- ble segments in the Group. The comparative segment results have been restated for comparison purposes as required by IFRS 8 Operat- ing Segments. Segment performance is now evaluated on Divisional profit. Divisional profit is calculated as gross profit less selling and dis- tribution costs. Income statement Accounting policies Segment Information GN Store Nord’s Management has identified Hearing, Enterprise and Gaming & Consumer as the reportable segments in the Group. Hearing is operating within the hearing instrument industry, primarily producing and selling hearing instruments and products related hereto. Enterprise is a leading supplier in the market for audio and video devices for professional use. Gaming & Consumer is operating to produce gaming devices, peripherals and consumer audio devices. Segment information is based on the Group’s accounting policies. In the Group, segment performance is evaluated on the basis of gross profit and divisional profit. Segment revenue and expenses comprise items directly attributable to a segment and items that can be allocated to a segment on a reasonable basis. Non-attributable costs are not allocated. Hearing Enterprise Gaming & Consumer Group DKK million 2024 2023 2024 2023 2024 2023 2024 2023 Revenue 7,104 6,802 7,205 7,463 3,676 3,855 17,985 18,120 Production costs -2,646 -2,726 -3,195 -3,562 -2,580 -2,887 -8,421 -9,175 Gross profit 4,458 4,076 4,010 3,901 1,096 968 9,564 8,945 Selling and distribution costs -1,994 -2,202 -1,466 -1,459 -897 -736 -4,357 -4,397 Divisional profit 2,464 1,874 2,544 2,442 199 232 5,207 4,548 Development costs -1,491 -1,546 Management and administrative expenses -1,543 -1,810 Other operating income and costs, net -20 8 EBITA* 2,153 1,200 Amortization and impairment of acquired intangible assets -365 -392 Gain (loss) on divestment of operations etc. 72 61 Operating profit (loss) 1,860 869 Share of profit (loss) in associates -7 -64 Financial items -492 -462 Profit (loss) before tax 1,361 343 Tax on profit (loss) -302 -77 Profit (loss) for the period 1,059 266 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 124/193 2.2 Revenue and geographical information Revenue disaggregation Revenue is predominantly recognized at a point in time, and revenue recognized over time is not significant. Revenue is in all material respects related to sale of goods; hearing aid instruments, DKK 7,104 million (2023: DKK 6,802 million), audio and collaboration solutions, DKK 7,205 million (2023: DKK 7,463 million), and gaming gear and consumer products, DKK 3,676 million (2023: 3,855 million). Revenue is attributed to countries on the basis of the customer's location. The US represent a material single country and constitutes the vast majority of revenue in North America. Germany, also represent a material single country. One distributor, mainly in Enterprise, comprises more than 10% of the Group's total revenue amounting to DKK 2,485 million (2023: DKK 2,328 million). Geographical information on assets Assets are attributed to countries based on the domicile location of the asset. Apart from Denmark only the US represents a material single country and constitutes the vast majority of assets in North America. Contract liabilities GN has recognized the following revenue-related contract liabilities: DKK million 2024 2023 Deferred revenue related to pre-paid extended warranties (Other current liabilities and Other non-current liabilities) 256 203 Accrued rights of return (Other current liabilities) 124 193 Contract liabilities at December 31 380 396 Revenue recognized, included in contract liabilities at the begin-ning of the year 295 265 As of December 31, 2024, customer rebates amounted to DKK 1,032 million (2023: DKK 965 million). Key accounting estimates Estimating variable consideration Certain contracts with customers include a right of return and volume re- bates that give rise to variable consideration. In estimating the variable consideration GN Store Nord is required to use either the expected value method or the most likely amount method based on which method better predicts the amount of consideration to which it will be entitled. Significant accounting estimates and judgments involve determining the portion of ex- pected returns of goods as well as the amount of discounts and rebates. The portion of goods sold that is expected to be returned is estimated based on historical product returns data. . Intangible assets and property, plant and Revenue from contracts with customers equipment Hearing Enterprise Gaming & Consumer Consolidated total Consolidated total DKK million 2024 2023 2024 2023 2024 2023 2024 2023 2024 2023 Europe 1,847 1,887 3,938 4,167 1,292 1,430 7,077 7,484 12,491 12,487 North America 3,616 3,407 1,648 1,679 1,846 1,753 7,110 6,839 5,492 5,130 Rest of World 1,641 1,508 1,619 1,617 538 672 3,798 3,797 423 344 Total 7,104 6,802 7,205 7,463 3,676 3,855 17,985 18,120 18,406 17,961 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 125/193 2.2 Revenue and geographical information (Continued) Accounting policies Revenue Revenue from the sale of hearing aids and audio and collaboration solutions is recognized in the income statement when the customer obtains control of the goods. When considering at what point in time the customer obtains control of the goods, a number of indicators are considered , including whether: • GN has a present right to payment for the goods • The customer has legal title to the goods • The customer has physical possession of the goods • The customer has the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods • The customer has accepted the goods In the majority of sales, the customer obtains control of the goods either upon shipment from a distribution hub or upon delivery to the customer. The amount of revenue recognized varies with discounts and rebates offered to customers. Discounts and rebates are estimated based on the expected amount to be provided to the customers and reduce revenues recognized. Revenue is only recognized to the exte nt that it is highly probable that a significant reversal will not occur. Revenue from contracts in which GN Store Nord provides on -going access to research against a fee and in which the counterparty reasonably expects that GN Store Nord will continue to perform research is recognized over the access period. When goods are sold with a right of return, a refund liability and a right to the returned products are recognized as other current liabilities and a current asset, respectively. The refund liability is deducted from revenue and the right to the returned products is offset in cost of sales. The portion of goods sold that is expected to be returned is estimated based on historical product returns d ata. The estimated amounts of both returns, discounts and rebates are reassessed at each reporting date. GN Store Nord typically provides warranties for general repairs of defects that existed at the time of sale, as required by law. These assurance -type warranties are accounted for as described in the accounting policies for warranty provisions. As part of a sales transaction, certain future services such as extended warranties may be included. In case such service -type warranties are sold, the transaction price is allocated to the promised goods and services based on stand -alone selling prices. Observable prices are as far as possible used to determine the stand -alone selling prices but if such are not available a cost plus a margin approach is used. Extended warranties are initially recognized as contract liabilities in the balance sheet and recognized in the income statement on a straight - line basis over the term of the extended warranty period. The typical payment terms for customers is between 30 and 60 days. GN Store Nord does not expect to have contracts with payment terms exceeding one year. As a consequence, the transaction prices are not adjusted for the time value of money. Revenue is meas ured excluding VAT, taxes and granted cash and quantity discounts in relation to the sale and expected returns of goods. Production Costs Production costs comprise costs, including depreciation and salaries, incurred in generating the revenue for the year. Production costs include direct and in- direct costs for raw materials and consumables, wages and salaries, inventory write -downs, maintenance and depreciation and impairment of production plant and costs and expenses relating to the operation, administration and management of factories. Development Costs Development costs comprise costs, salaries, and depreciation of operating assets and equipment directly or indirectly attributable to the Group’s development activities. Furthermore, amortization and write -down of capitalized development projects are inclu ded as part of development costs. Selling and Distribution Costs Selling and distribution costs comprise costs relating to the sale and distribution of products and services, including salaries, sales commissions, advertising and marketing costs, depreciation and impairment, expected losses on trade receivables etc. Management and Administrative Expenses Management and administrative expenses comprise expenses incurred for management and administration. Administrative expenses include office expenses, depreciation and impairment, etc. Other Operating Income and Costs, net Other operating income and costs comprise items secondary to the principal activities of the enterprises. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 126/193 2.3 Staff costs and management remuneration Staff costs DKK million 2024 2023 Wages, salaries and remuneration 3,665 4,238 Pensions, defined benefit plans - 2 Pensions, defined contribution plans 213 194 Other social security costs 419 438 Share-based incentives -35 22 Total 4,262 4,894 Included in: Production costs and change in payroll costs included in inventories 269 627 Development costs 683 676 Selling and distribution costs 2,567 2,630 Management and administrative expenses 743 961 Total 4,262 4,894 Average number of FTEs 7,201 7,435 Number of FTEs, year-end 7,347 7,165 Share-based incentive plans The Group's long-term equity-settled incentive program is specified and described in note 5.2 share-based incentive plans. Remuneration of the Board of Directors and Executive Management DKK million 2024 2023 Fixed pay* 15 33 Short-term incentives 12 25 Share-based incentives 7 -13 Total Executive Management remuneration 34 45 Executive Management termination benefits 4 10 Board of Directors remuneration 10 9 Total remuneration to Executive Management and Board of Directors 48 64 * Fixed pay include Base salary and Other benefits. Other benefits include car allowances, company paid telephone and internet cost. For the Board of Directors Other benefits in- clude travel allowance and social security costs. The total remuneration of the Executive Management is based on the “General Guidelines for Incentive Pay to Management”, as adopted at GN´s Annual General Meeting. The remuneration of the Executive Management is based on a fixed base salary and participation in GN’s option-based long-term incentive programs. Furthermore, the remuneration includes a yearly bonus plan (short-term incentives) with a target payout of 50% of the annual base salary and the maximum payout cannot exceed 100% of the execu- tive’s annual base salary. The Group does not make pension contributions for members of the Executive Management. Executive Management has usual severance agreements and change-of-control agreements. Members of the Board of Directors receive a fixed remuneration as approved by the shareholders at the Annual General Meeting on March 13, 2024. The base fee for the Board of Directors did not change from 2023 to 2024. The fixed remuneration is based on GN´s corporate gov- ernance structure in which an audit committee, a technology & innova- tion committee, a remuneration committee and a nomination commit- tee have been established. On October 1, 2023, the GN Group transi- tioned into a “one-company” governance structure with GN Store Nord A/S’ Board of Directors overseeing the Group and its three divisions. In addition to the remuneration, members of the Board of Directors who are not Danish residents are entitled to a fixed travel allowance in connection with participation in board meetings in Denmark. For details related to the remuneration of the Board of Directors and Executive Management, refer to the Remuneration Report 2024. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 127/193 2.4 Tax Tax on profit (loss) DKK million 2024 2023 Tax on profit (loss) Current tax for the year -106 -219 Deferred tax for the year -221 158 Effect of change in income tax rates -1 1 Withholding tax -1 -15 Adjustment to current tax with respect to prior years 42 -6 Adjustment to deferred tax with respect to prior years -15 4 Total -302 -77 Reconciliation of effective tax rate Danish tax rate 22.0% 22.0% Effect of tax rates in foreign jurisdictions 1.1% 1.0% Non-taxable income -1.0% -4.3% Non-deductible expenses 3.2% 3.3% Other, including provisions for uncertain tax positions* -3.1% 0.4% Effective tax rate 22.2% 22.4% Tax relating to other comprehensive income Actuarial gains (losses) 13 -2 Adjustment of cash flow hedges -23 -11 Total -10 -13 *Other primarily relates to tax subsidies relating to R&D countered by provisions for uncer- tain tax positions. Deferred Tax DKK million 2024 2023 Deferred tax, net Deferred tax at January 1, net -251 -424 Adjustment with respect to prior years -16 4 Effect of change in income tax rates -1 1 Deferred tax for the year recognized in profit (loss) for the year -221 158 Deferred tax for the year recognized in other comprehensive income 10 for the year -14 Tax related to share-based incentive plans 13 -14 Foreign exchange adjustments -4 38 Deferred tax at December 31, net -470 -251 Deferred tax is recognized in the balance sheet as follows: Deferred tax assets 566 494 Deferred tax liabilities -1,036 -745 Deferred tax at December 31, net -470 -251 Deferred tax, net relates to: Intangible assets -1,150 -999 Property, plant and equipment 23 28 Other securities 5 6 Current assets 175 179 Current liabilities 4 7 Intercompany liabilities -2 -3 Tax loss carryforwards 96 138 Provisions 339 344 Other 40 49 Total -470 -251 Tax value of unrecognized tax assets Tax loss carryforwards 137 64 Other tax assets 83 173 Unrecognized tax assets at December 31 220 237 Unrecognized tax assets are based on the Group's expectations to the future utilization of the tax assets. All tax losses carryforward have no expiry date. Deferred tax, net includes DKK 62 million expected to be utilized within 12 months (2023: DKK 65 million). Accounting policies Tax on profit (loss) for the year The parent company is jointly taxed with all Danish subsidiaries. The cur- rent Danish corporation tax is allocated between the jointly taxed compa- nies in proportion to their taxable income. The jointly taxed companies are taxed under the on-account tax scheme. Tax for the year comprises current tax and changes in deferred tax for the year. The tax expense relating to the profit (loss) for the year is recognized in the income statement, and the tax expense relating to amounts recog- nized in other comprehensive income is recognized in other comprehensive income. Current tax payable is recognized in current liabilities and deferred tax is recognized in non-current liabilities. Tax receivable is recognized in current assets and deferred tax assets are recognized in non-current assets. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 128/193 2.4 Tax (Continued) Approach to tax and taxes paid The tax GN pays is an important part of our wider economic and social impact and a key mechanism by which GN contributes to the develop- ment of the countries where we operate. GN is committed to paying tax responsibly, complying with tax regulations and acknowledges its responsibility to stakeholders to meet expectations of good tax prac- tices. The GN Tax Policy is reviewed annually and approved by the Board of Directors. Please refer to our tax policy on the GN website: www.gn.com/taxpolicy . We monitor and support the international initiatives building trust in multinationals tax management and payments. In acting responsibly, we disclose our main taxes paid on a regional level and for Denmark separately. For the financial year 2024, our estimated corporate tax payment amounts to DKK 235 million (2023: DKK 175 million). GN is subject to taxation in the countries in which we operate. The tax legislation and tax rates in these countries differ, impacting the tax we pay. The allocation of taxes paid is based on the “principal model”, which is in alignment with our operational and commercial activities and is recognized by OECD as an acceptable transfer pricing model to allocate taxable profits. The allocation is based on functions, assets, and risks in every entity. While acting responsibly, GN observes and complies with the applica- ble international tax initiatives regarding reporting and disclosure re- quirements. We continuously monitor the development to consider our response to the proposed international disclosure requirements. GN is subject to the Pillar Two rules and has had no material top-up tax in 2024. GN has applied the mandatory exception and has therefore not recognized any Pillar Two related deferred taxes in 2024. Number of em-ployees, end of EBT IFRS (DKK Effective tax Tax paid (DKK Accrued tax Regions Nature of Activity period million) rate million) (DKK million) Denmark Principal 1,740 541 21.0% 85 41 Europe R&D, Production, distribution and sales 887 269 29.0% 48 20 North America R&D, Production, distribution and sales 1,785 276 16.0% 30 18 Rest of World R&D, Production, distribution and sales 2,935 275 24.0% 72 27 Total Total GN Group 7,347 1,361 22.2% 235 106 Eliminations and other adjust-ments IFRS annual report 2024 Total GN Group 7,347 1,361 22.2% 235 106 Accounting policies Deferred Tax Deferred tax assets, including the tax base of tax loss carryforwards, are recognized at the expected value of their utilization, either as a set-off against tax on future income or as a set-off against deferred tax liabilities in the same legal tax entity and jurisdiction. Deferred tax is measured using the balance sheet liability method on all temporary differences between the carrying amount and the tax base of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax is not recognized on goodwill unless this is deductible for tax purposes. De- ferred tax is measured according to the tax rules and at the tax rates appli- cable in the respective countries at the balance sheet date when the de- ferred tax is expected to crystallize as current tax. The change in deferred tax as a result of changes in tax rates is recognized in the income state- ment. If a tax deduction on computation of the taxable income in Denmark or in foreign jurisdictions is obtained as a result of share-based payment programs, the tax benefit for the deduction is recognized directly in the balance sheet. Deferred tax assets are subject to annual impairment tests and are recognized only to the extent that it is probable that the assets will be utilized. Key accounting judgement Deferred tax assets valuation Management has made judgements in determining the extent to which de- ferred tax assets are recognized. GN recognizes deferred tax assets only to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences and unused tax losses can be utilized. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 129/193 2.5 Income statement classified by function The group presents the income statement based on a classification of costs by function. However, in order to present EBITA in the income statement, which is the measure of profit used by Management, amor- tization and impairment of acquired intangible assets are separated from the individual functions and presented as a separate line item. If amortization and impairment of acquired intangible assets are allo- cated to the individual line items by function, the income statement is presented as follows: DKK million 2024 2023 Revenue 17,985 18,120 Production costs -8,421 -9,175 Gross profit 9,564 8,945 Development costs -1,634 -1,666 Selling and distribution costs -4,579 -4,613 Management and administrative expenses -1,543 -1,786 Other operating income and costs, net -20 -72 Gain (loss) on divestment of operations etc. 72 61 Operating profit (loss) 1,860 869 In the above income statement amortization and im-pairment of acquired intangible assets has been allo-cated to functions as follows: Development costs -143 -176 Selling and distribution costs -222 -216 Amortization and impairment of acquired intangible assets -365 -392 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 130/193 Introduction Insights into the assets that form the basis for the activities in GN Store Nord, and the related liabilities. Most of these are included in invested capital and some in net working capital. 3.1 Intangible assets 131 3.2 Property, plant and equipment 135 3.3 Leases 137 3.4 Depreciation, amortization and impairment 138 3.5 Other non-current assets 139 3.6 Inventories 141 3.7 Trade receivables 142 3.8 Provisions 143 Section 3 - Operating assets and liabilities GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 130/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 131/193 3.1 Intangible assets The carrying amount of In-house development projects and software include development in progress of DKK 1,625 million and DKK 815 million respectively (2023: DKK 1,322 million and DKK 641 million). Goodwill Goodwill arising from business acquisitions is recognized in the consoli- dated financial statements. There were no additions during the year (2023: no additions). Management performs an annual impairment test of the carrying amount of goodwill. The impairment test covers the Group's cash- generating units (CGU) to which the carrying amount of goodwill is allocated. Acquired devel-In-house devel-opment pro-opment pro-jects and soft-Customer rela-Patents and DKK million Goodwill jects ware tionships Software rights Other Total Cost at January 1 11,154 6,981 903 1,223 2,090 958 1,421 24,730 Additions - 1,015 - - 269 - - 1,284 Disposals - -1 - -50 -58 - - -109 Disposal on company divestments -37 - - -32 - - -5 -74 Transfers - - - - - - - - Foreign exchange adjustments 241 - - - 1 - 1 243 Cost at December 31 11,358 7,995 903 1,141 2,302 958 1,417 26,074 Amortization and impairment at January 1 - -4,684 -226 -530 -984 -729 -652 -7,805 Amortization - -597 -41 -82 -95 -83 -76 -974 Disposals - - 10 50 31 - - 91 Disposal on company divestments - - - 32 - - 4 36 Impairment - -104 - - - - - -104 Transfers - - - - - - - - Foreign exchange adjustments - - - - - - - - Amortization and impairment at December 31 - -5,385 -257 -530 -1,048 -812 -724 -8,756 Carrying amount at December 31, 2024 11,358 2,610 646 611 1,254 146 693 17,318 Cost at January 1 11,570 6,030 903 1,449 1,734 965 1,401 24,052 Additions - 951 - - 361 - 27 1,339 Disposals -246 - - -212 - - - -458 Transfers - - - - - - - - Foreign exchange adjustments -170 - - -14 -5 -7 -7 -203 Cost at December 31 11,154 6,981 903 1,223 2,090 958 1,421 24,730 Amortization and impairment at January 1 - -3,922 -139 -466 -774 -647 -558 -6,506 Amortization - -582 -87 -114 -80 -89 -102 -1,054 Disposals - - - 36 - - 36 Impairment - -180 - - -135 - - -315 Transfers - - - - - - - - Foreign exchange adjustments - - - 14 5 7 8 34 Amortization and impairment at December 31 - -4,684 -226 -530 -984 -729 -652 -7,805 Carrying amount at December 31, 2023 11,154 2,297 677 693 1,106 229 769 16,925 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 132/193 3.1 Intangible assets (Continued) During 2024, the Group reorganized its operations, resulting in the cre- ation of three new divisions: Hearing, Enterprise, and Gaming & Con- sumer. Consequently, GN Audio's goodwill of DKK 6,825 million on 31 December 2023 was reallocated to the new divisions – Enterprise, and Gaming & Consumer, based on their relative values as of the reorgani- zation date. Hearing was not included in the reallocation as the division remain unchanged. Goodwill at 31 December 2024 with restated 2023 comparatives are as follows: Carrying amount of Pre-tax discount Weighted average goodwill rate cost of capital DKK million % % 2024 2023 2024 2023 2024 2023 CGUs Hearing 4,483 4,329 7.8 8.7 7.5 8.3 Enterprise 4,503 4,453 8.0 9.3 7.8 8.8 Gaming & Consumer 2,372 2,372 8.2 9.3 8.0 8.8 Total 11,358 11,154 In the impairment test, the discounted future cash flows of each CGU (the value in use) were compared with the carrying amounts. Future cash flows are based on the budget for 2025, market forecasts for 2025 – 2028, strategy financial models, etc. approved by the Board of Directors. Budgets and strategy financial models are based on specific assumptions for the individual CGU regarding sales, operating profit, working capital, investments in non-current assets, etc. The calcula- tions apply expected growth in the terminal period of 2.0% p.a. for all CGUs (2023: 2.0% p.a.). Assumptions regarding sales and operating profit is based on marked assumption and growth, the WACC is based on peers, working capital and investments in non-current assets is based on historical data and strategy plan. The long-term market growth in the Hearing Aid, Enterprise, and Gam- ing industries is driven by the following main factors: Hearing: • Shifting demographics with a growing elderly and more affluent population • Intensified noise pollution driving the increased prevalence of hearing loss • Increased penetration rates as more people with a hearing loss will use hearing aids in the future, and • Increased use of two hearing aids, which is relatively common to- day, instead of only one Enterprise: • Increased penetration rates as more people with a hearing loss will use hearing aids in the future, and • UC technology has the potential to reduce travel cost and carbon footprint by the companies that adopt the technology • Continued transition from desk phones to Unified Communica- tions • Video playing an increasingly larger role in future experiences • Increasing flexibility requirements by office-workers, demands for productivity, focus on cloud-based solutions, and general technol- ogy improvements Gaming & Consumer: • Continued growth in gaming, time spent and players • Growing appetite for premium features, driving higher ASPs The expected revenue growth across the three divisions is based on the current differentiated product offering with unique technology as well as future product launches. Based on the impairment test and related assumptions, Management has not identified any goodwill impairment at December 31, 2024. No likely change in the assumptions applied will result in an impairment. Development projects and software In-progress and completed development projects comprise develop- ment and design of hearing instruments and audio and collaboration solutions. Most development projects are expected to be completed in the coming years, after which product sales and marketing can be com- menced. Management performs at least one annual impairment test of the carrying amount of recognized development costs. The recovera- ble amount is assessed based on sales forecasts. During the year, im- pairments of DKK 104 million (2023: DKK 180 million) related to pro- jects were recognized, mainly attributable to the wind-down of the Elite and Talk product lines. In Management's assessments, the recov- erable amount exceeds the carrying amount at December 31, 2024. Software comprises development, design and test of production, plan- ning software and reporting systems, business intelligence etc. Implementation of these systems is expected to optimize internal pro- cedures and processes. During the year, impairments of DKK 0 million (2023: DKK 135 million) related to software were recognized. In 2024, Management assessed that the expected useful lives were reflected in the carrying amounts at December 31, 2024. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 133/193 The Group’s move to one company geared towards capturing com- pany-wide synergies which will support and accelerate margin im- provements across the Group. In order to capture these synergies, the group has stream-lined processes including refined product and soft- ware focus resulting in the aforementioned development projects im- pairments recognized in the 2024 financial year. Customer relationships Customer relationships primarily comprise acquired customer relation- ships. The most significant customer relationship relates to the acquisi- tion of SteelSeries, Audigy, BlueParrot and US Beltone. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 134/193 3.1 Intangible assets (Continued) Patents and rights Patents and rights primarily comprise acquired patents and rights. The most significant patents and rights relate to technologies for the de- velopment of new hearing instruments for Hearing and rights to the use of certain technologies for development of headsets and video communications solutions. Other The Group's other intangible assets mainly comprise of DKK 627 mil- lion (2023: DKK 693 million) related to trademarks, DKK 21 million (2023: DKK 66 million) related to supply agreements and DKK 0 million (2023: DKK 2 million) related to know-how. In Management's assess- ments, the recoverable amount exceeds the carrying amount at De- cember 31, 2024. Accounting policies Goodwill At the acquisition date goodwill is recognized in the balance sheet at cost as described under Business combinations (note 5.1). Subsequently, goodwill is measured at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill is not amortized but is tested for impairment at least once a year. The carrying amount of goodwill is allocated to the Group’s cash -generating units at the acquisition date. Identification of cash -generating units is based on how Management monitors the operation in the Management reporting. As a result of the integration of acquired enterprises in the existing group, Management assesses that the smallest cash -generating units to which the carrying amount of goodwill can be allocated are: Hearing , Enterprise and Gaming & Consumer . Development projects, Software, Patents, Licenses and Other Intangible Assets Intangible assets are measured at cost less accumulated amortization and im- pairment. Amortization is provided on a straight -line basis over the expected useful lives of the assets. When changing the depreciation period, the effect on the depreciation is re cognized prospectively as a change in accounting esti- mates. Amortization and impairment is recognized in the income statement as production costs, development costs, distribution costs and administrative expenses. The expected useful lives are as follows: Completed development projects1-5 years Software3-10 years Customer relationshipsup to 10 yearsPatents, licenses, trademarks and otherup to 20 yearsintellectual property rights Development projects that are clearly defined and identifiable, where the technical utilization degree, sufficient resources and a potential future market or development opportunities in the Company is evidenced, and where GN Store Nord intends to produce, market or use the project, are recognized as intangible assets if it is p robable that costs incurred will be covered by fu- ture earnings. The cost of such development projects includes direct wages, salaries, materials and other direct and indirect costs attributable to the de- velopment projects. Amortization and write -down of such capitalized devel- opment projects are started at the date of completion and are included in de- velopment costs. Other development costs are recognized in the income statement as incurred. Gains or losses on the disposal of intangible assets are determined as the difference between the selling price less selling costs and the carrying amount at the disposal date, and are recognized in the income statement as other operating income or other operating costs, respectively. Impairment of Goodwill and in -progress development projects Goodwill is subject to at least one annual impairment test. Similarly, in - progress development projects are tested for impairment at least annually. An impairment test is also performed whenever there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. The carrying amount of goodwill is tested for impairment together with the other non -current assets in the cash-generating unit to which the goodwill is allocated. Goodwill is written down to the recoverable amount if the carrying amount is higher than the computed recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is computed as the present value of the expected future net cash flows from the enterprises or activities to which the goodwill is allocated. Recognition of impairment losses in the income statement An impairment loss is recognized if the carrying amount of an asset or its cash -generating unit exceeds the recoverable amount of the asset or the cash -generating unit. Impairment of goodwill is recognized in a separate line item in the income statement. Impairment of goodwill is not reversed. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 135/193 3.1 Intangible assets (Continued) 3.2 Property, plant and equipment Key accounting estimates Valuation of intangible assets - goodwill Determining whether goodwill is impaired requires a comparison of the recoverable amount with the carrying amount. The recoverable amount is determined as the net present value of the future cash flows expected to arise from the cash-generating unit to which goodwill is allocated. Key accounting estimates Valuation of intangible assets - development projects Development projects are measured at cost less accumulated amortization and impairment. An impairment test is performed of the carrying amount of recognized development projects. The impairment test is based on assumptions regarding strategy, product life cycle, market conditions, discount rates and budgets, etc., after the project has been completed and production has commenced. If market-related assumptions etc., are changed, development projects may have to be written down. Management examines and assesses the underlying assumptions when determining whether or not the carrying amount should be written down. Factory Operating Assets and office Leasehold Plant and assets and under DKK million buildings improvements machinery equipment construction Total Cost at January 1 679 210 935 773 14 2,611 Reclassification -4 -15 -7 26 - - Additions 28 39 30 13 10 120 Disposals - -13 -2 -18 - -33 Disposals on company divestments - -12 - -17 - -29 Foreign exchange adjustments - - - -9 - -9 Cost at December 31 703 209 956 768 24 2,660 Depreciation and impairment at January 1 -281 -157 -782 -644 - -1,864 Depreciation -27 -18 -66 -74 - -185 Impairment - - -6 - - -6 Disposals - 13 1 16 - 30 Disposals on company divestments - 12 - 16 - 28 Transfers -13 3 -15 25 - - Foreign exchange adjustments 1 -2 -2 -1 - -4 Depreciation and impairment at December 31 -320 -149 -870 -662 - -2,001 Carrying amount at December 31, 2024 383 60 86 106 24 659 Leased assets, c.f. note 3.3 383 - - 46 - 429 Total carrying amount at December 31, 2024 766 60 86 152 24 1,088 Cost at January 1 671 236 958 798 14 2,677 Additions 11 8 31 41 2 93 Disposals - -29 -48 -60 - -137 Reclassification - - 2 - -2 - Foreign exchange adjustments -3 -5 -8 -6 - -22 Cost at December 31 679 210 935 773 14 2,611 Depreciation and impairment at January 1 -256 -170 -716 -636 - -1,778 Depreciation -27 -18 -115 -61 - -221 Impairment - - - - - - Disposals - 29 48 48 - 125 Foreign exchange adjustments 2 2 1 5 - 10 Depreciation and impairment at December 31 -281 -157 -782 -644 - -1,864 Carrying amount at December 31, 2023 398 53 153 129 14 747 Leased assets, c.f. note 3.3 272 17 289 Total carrying amount at December 31, 2023 670 53 153 146 14 1,036 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 136/193 3.2 Property, plant and equipment (Continued) Accounting policies Property, plant and equipment Land and buildings, plant and machinery and fixtures and fittings, other plant and equipment are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Cost comprises the purchase price and costs of materials, components, suppliers, direct wages and salaries and indirect production costs until the date when the asset is available for use. Liabilities related to dismantling and removing the asset and restoring the site on which the asset is located are added to the cost. Where individual comp onents of an item of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, they are accounted for as separate items, which are depreciated separately. Depreciation is provided on a straight -line basis over the expected useful lives of property, plant and equipment. The expected useful lives are as follows: Buildings and installations (land is not depreciated)10-50 years Leasehold improvements5-20 years Plant and machinery1-7 years Operating assets and equipment2-7 years When determining the useful lives impact of climate-related risks have been assessed. Such risks include new climate -related legislation restricting or changing the use of certain assets. The basis of depreciation is calculated as the residual value of the asset less impairment losses. The residual value is determined at the acquisition date and reassessed annually. If the residual value exceeds the carrying amount, depreciation is disconti nued. When changing the depreciation period or the residual value, the effect on the depreciation is recognized prospectively as a change in accounting estimates. Depreciation and impairment is recognized in the income statement as production costs, develo pment costs, distribution costs and administrative expenses. Expenses for repairs and maintenance of property, plant and equipment are included in the income statement. Gains or losses on disposal or scrapping of an item of property, plant and equipment are determined as the difference between the sales price reduced by costs related to dismantling and removing the asset, selling costs and costs related to restoring the site on which the asset is located and the carrying amount. Gains or losses are recognized in the income statement as Other operating income or Othe r operating costs, respectively. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 137/193 3.3 Leases GN’s leases mainly consist of property leases of e.g. offices but also in- clude cars and office equipment. Rental contracts are typically made for fixed periods but may have extension options. Contracts may con- tain both lease and non-lease components. In such cases the considera- tion in the contract is allocated to the lease and non-lease components based on their relative stand-alone prices. Lease terms are negotiated on an individual basis and contain a wide range of different terms and conditions. In 2023, GN entered into a sale and leaseback transaction for the headquarters building which based upon the terms and condi- tions of the agreement was deemed to be a failed sale. Consequently, such transaction is treated similar to a financing transaction from ex- ternal bank (i.e., no derecognition of assets and no recognition of lease liabilities.) For information regarding contractual maturity analysis for lease liabil- ities please refer to note 4.4 Financial instruments. Lease liabilities DKK million 2024 2023 Contractual maturity analysis of lease liabilities: Less than one year 113 112 Between one and three years 153 140 More than three years 301 69 Total 567 321 The maturity analysis is based on non-discounted cash flows. Amounts expensed in the income statement and total cash outflow DKK million 2024 2023 Interest expense on lease liabilities 10 8 Expenses for low-value assets and short-term leases 53 7 Total cash outflow regarding lease liabilities 99 144 Right-of-use assets from leases included in property, plant and equipment 2024 2023 Factory Operating Factory Operating and office assets and and office assets and DKK million buildings equipment Total buildings equipment Total Carrying amount at January 1 272 17 289 324 32 356 Reclassification -33 33 - - - - Additions 250 28 278 51 45 96 Disposals -32 -1 -33 - -30 -30 Remeasurements 8 - 8 14 - 14 Depreciation -84 -26 -110 -103 -30 -133 Impairment - - - -6 - -6 Foreign exchange adjustments 2 -5 -3 -8 - -8 Carrying amount at December 31 383 46 429 272 17 289 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 138/193 3.3 Leases (continued) 3.4 Depreciation, amortization and impairment DKK million 2024 2023 Depreciation, amortization and impairment for the year of prop-erty, plant and equipment (incl. leased assets) and intangible as-sets are recognized in the income statement as follows: Production costs -113 -154 Development costs -682 -776 Selling and distribution costs -89 -86 Management and administrative expenses -130 -321 Amortization and impairment of acquired intangible assets -365 -392 Total -1,379 -1,729 Depreciation and impairment of property, plant and equipment (inc. leased assets) are recognized in the income statement as fol-lows: Production costs -113 -154 Development costs -21 -12 Selling and distribution costs -59 -83 Management and administrative expenses -108 -111 Total -301 -360 Amortization of intangible assets is recognized in the income state-ment as follows: Development costs -558 -584 Selling and distribution costs -30 -3 Management and administrative expenses -21 -78 Amortization and impairment of acquired intangible assets -365 -389 Total -974 -1,054 Impairment of intangible assets is recognized in the income state-ment as follows: Development costs -104 -180 Management and administrative expenses - -132 Amortization and impairment of acquired intangible assets - -3 Total -104 -315 Accounting policies Leases Leases are recognized as a right -of-use asset and a corresponding liability at the date at which the leased asset is available for use by the group. Each lease payment is allocated between the liability and finance cost. The finance cost is charged to prof it or loss over the lease period so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability for each period. The right -of use asset is depreciated over the shorter of the asset's useful life and the lease term on a stra ight-line basis. Assets and liabilities arising from a lease are initially measured on a present value basis. Lease liabilities include the net present value of the following lease payments: • fixed payments (including in-substance fixed payments), less any lease incentives receivable • variable lease payment that are based on an index or a rate • amounts expected to be payable by the lessee under residual value guarantees • the exercise price of a purchase option if the lessee is reasonably certain to exercise that option, and • payments of penalties for terminating the lease, if the lease term reflects the lessee exercising that option The lease payments are discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease. If that rate cannot be determined, the lessee’s incremental borrowing rate is used, being the rate that the lessee would have to pay to borrow the funds necessary to obtain an asset of similar value in a similar economic environment with similar terms and conditions. Right -of-use assets are measured at cost comprising the following: • the amount of the initial measurement of lease liability • any lease payments made at or before the commencement date less any lease incentives received • any initial direct costs, and • restoration costs Payments associated with short -term leases and leases of low-value assets are recognized on a straight -line basis as an expense in profit or loss. Short- term leases have a lease term of 12 months or less. Low -value assets comprise e.g. IT -equipment and small items of office furniture. Extension and termination options Extension and termination options are included in a number of leases across the group. These terms are used to maximize operational flexibility. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 139/193 3.5 Other non-current assets DKK million 2024 2023 Loans to dispensers of Hearing products 808 770 Pre-paid discounts 316 246 Ownership interests 157 136 RAP, SIP and DCP 473 349 Pension assets - 33 Other 50 25 Total 1,804 1,559 RAP (Retirement Advantage Plan) and SIP (Savings and Investment Plan) are programs in which customers earn funds based on purchases. DCP (Deferred Compensation Plan) is a program in which Management in certain foreign subsidiaries may choose to defer compensation. The amounts invested by the Group on behalf of customers and Manage- ment are recognized in Other non-current assets. The Group’s liabilities related to the programs are recognized in Other non-current liabilities at DKK 346 million (2023: DKK 265 million). All ownership interests are accounted for at fair value through profit or loss. Dispenser loans are provided to dispensers of Hearing products in or- der to support their future growth. The majority of dispenser loans is related to dispensers in the US. Hearing's assessment of credit risk as- sociated with non-current loans to dispensers depends primarily on change in payment behavior and current economic conditions. Before a loan is extended, the creditworthiness of the individual dispenser is an- alyzed. Calculating the expected credit loss rates, GN considers histori- cal loss rates for each category of dispensers, and provides for credit losses against loans to customers by comparing the development in the actual loan balance to the agreed development in the loan balance. The table below illustrates how the 12-month and lifetime expected credit loss are calculated for dispenser loans and how the credit risk ex- posure on dispenser loans are grouped by GN’s internal credit rating. 2024 2023 Gross carrying Carrying Gross carrying Carrying Expected credit amount at amount (net of Expected credit amount at amount (net of loss rate default loss allowance) loss rate default loss allowance) GN Store Nord internal credit rating % DKK million DKK million % DKK million DKK million Performing 12-month expected credit loss 3% 829 808 3% 790 770 Underperforming Lifetime expected credit losses 100% 107 - 100% 112 - Total dispenser loans at December 31 936 808 902 770 The 12-month and lifetime expected credit losses have developed as follows: Performing Underperforming DKK million (12 month ECL) (lifetime ECL) Total Opening loss allowance as at January 1, 2024 -20 -112 -132 Transferred to underperforming (lifetime ECL) - - New dispenser loans, net -1 -19 -20 Write-off Assets derecognized through the income statement - 23 23 Changes in model/risk parameters - - - Foreign exchange adjustments and other changes - 1 1 Closing loss allowance as at December 31, 2024 -21 -107 -128 Opening loss allowance as at January 1, 2023 -18 -124 -142 Transferred to underperforming (lifetime ECL) 3 3 New dispenser loans -3 - -3 Write-off Assets derecognized through the income statement - 12 12 Changes in model/risk parameters - - - Foreign exchange adjustments and other changes 1 -3 -2 Closing loss allowance as at December 31, 2023 -20 -112 -132 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 140/193 3.5 Other non-current assets (Continued) Accounting policies Loans to dispensers Loans to dispensers and other receivables are measured at amortized cost less an allowance for expected credit losses. Both loans to dispensers and other receivables are held for collection of contractual cash flows and those cash flows represent solely payments of principal and interest. Ownership Interests and savings plans Ownership interests between 20% and 50% in unlisted enterprises in which the Group does not exercise significant influence on the financial and operat- ing policies are recognized under non -current assets at fair value. Gains and losses on such ownership int erests are recorded under financial items in the income statement. Changes in the fair value of ownership interests at fair value though profit or loss are recognized in financial items in the income statement. The savings plans RAP, SIP and DCP are measured at fair value through profit or loss. Impairment of dispenser loans Loss allowances on dispenser loans are measured equal to 12 -month expected credit losses, if the credit risk has not increased significantly since initial recognition. If the credit risk has increased significantly, the loss allowance are measured at an am ount equal to lifetime expected credit losses. The calculation of 12 -month expected credit losses on dispenser loans are based on a weighted average of historical annual losses on customers. Payment plans are agreed with dispensers when issuing loans to these. The credit risk of loans to dispensers is considered to have increased significantly since initial recognition when actual loan balances differ from the agreed Key accounting judgments Financial support arrangements Hearing grants loans to dispensers and acquires ownership interests in dis- pensers. The agreements are typically comprehensive, complex and cover several aspects of the relationship between the parties. Management as- sesses the recognition and classification of income and expenses for each of these agreements, including whether the agreement represent a dis- count on future sales. Management also assesses whether current eco- nomic conditions and changes in customers' payment behavior could indi- cate impairment of the outstanding balances. Ownership Interests When considering whether or not Hearing exercises significant influence in unlisted enterprises a number of judgments are made. These judgments in- clude considering: • Representation on the board of directors • Participation in policy-making processes • Material transactions between the entity and GN • Interchange of managerial personnel • Provision of essential technical information development in loan balances with more than 40%. At this point the loan is considered to be in default and credit impaired. The calculation of lifetime expected credit losses on dispenser loans is based on the difference between the development in the actual loan balances and the agreed development in loan balances. The allowances are increased in steps if the difference betwee n the actual loan balance and the agreed devel- opment in loan balances increases. Indicators that there is no reasonable expectation of recovery of a dispenser loan include bankruptcy, change of control and change in the payment behavior or financial situation of the dispenser. In such cases a full or partial write -off of a dispenser loan will be recognized by derecognizing the asset. Where recoveries are made, these are recognized in the income statement. Impairment of Pre -paid discounts The carrying amount of Pre -paid discounts is subject to an annual test for indications of impairment. When there is an indication that assets may be impaired, the recoverable amount of the asset is determined. Recognition of impairment losses in the income statement Impairment losses are recognized in the income statement in the relevant functional line items. Impairment of dispenser loans are reversed only to the extent of changes in the assumptions and estimates underlying the impair- ment calculation. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 141/193 3.6 Inventories DKK million 2024 2023 Raw materials and consumables 561 622 Work in progress 24 27 Finished goods and merchandise 2,000 2,008 Total 2,585 2,657 The above includes write-downs amounting to -281 -295 Costs of goods sold included in Production Costs -8,155 -8,519 The write-down of inventories were amongst others related to the clos- ing f the Consumer business. The write-down of inventories were amongst others related to the wind-down of the Elite and Talk product lines. Accounting policies Inventories Inventories are measured at cost in accordance with the FIFO-principle using the standard cost method. Standard costs take into account normal levels of raw materials and consumables, staff costs, efficiency and capacity utilization. Standard costs are reviewed regularly and adjusted in accordance with the FIFO-principle. Raw materials and goods for resale are measured at cost, comprising pur- chase price plus delivery costs. Work in progress and finished goods are measured at cost, comprising the cost of direct materials, wages and salaries and indirect production over- heads. Indirect production overheads comprise indirect materials, wages and salaries, maintenance and depreciation of production machinery, buildings and equipment as well as factory administration and management. Where the net realizable value is lower than cost, inventories are written down to this lower value. The net realizable value of inventories is calcu- lated as the sales amount less costs of completion and costs necessary to make the sale. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 142/193 3.7 Trade receivables The loss allowance included in total trade receivables, based on the above aging profile and expected loss rates, have developed as follows: DKK million 2024 2023 Loss allowance at January 1 -185 -174 Increase in loss allowance during the year -34 -38 Trade receivables written off as uncollectible 12 10 Reversal of unused loss allowance 20 16 Disposal on company divestments 1 - Foreign exchange adjustments - 4 Loss allowance at December 31 -186 -182 The total loss allowance of DKK 186 million is included in trade receiv- ables at December 31, 2024 (2023: DKK 182 million). GN's assessment of credit risk associated with individual receivables depends primarily on aging, change in customer payment behavior, current economic conditions etc. as described in significant accounting estimates. No security has been pledged to GN for trade receivables. Accounting policies Measurement of trade receivables Trade receivables are measured at amortized cost less expected lifetime credit losses. The expected loss rates are based on days past due and whether a receivable concerns a Hearing , Enterprise, or Gaming & Consumer customer. Current expectations and estimates of expected credit losses are furthermore based on change in customer behavior and current economic conditions. Expected credit losses are based on an individual assessment of each receivable and at portfolio level. 1-60 days past 61-90 days past 91-120 days 121-180 days More than 181 DKK million Current due due past due past due days past due Total Gross carrying amount - Trade receivables 4,008 406 90 75 63 217 4,859 Loss allowance at December 31 -14 -6 -4 -6 -14 -142 -186 Trade receivables at December 31, 2024 3,994 400 86 69 49 75 4,673 Expected loss rate 0% 1% 4% 8% 22% 65% 4% Gross carrying amount - Trade receivables 3,797 479 64 37 58 189 4,624 Loss allowance at December 31 -8 -1 -8 -3 -8 -154 -182 Trade receivables at December 31, 2023 3,789 478 56 34 50 35 4,442 Expected loss rate 0% 0% 13% 8% 14% 81% 4% GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 143/193 3.8 Provisions Warranty Other DKK million provisions provisions Total Provisions at January 1 331 153 484 Additions 41 39 80 Consumed -3 -6 -9 Reversed -6 -36 -42 Disposal on company divestments -1 -3 -4 Foreign exchange adjustments 11 3 14 Provisions at December 31, 2024 373 150 523 Which is presented in the consolidated balance sheet as: Non-current liabilities 156 62 218 Current liabilities 217 88 305 Provisions at December 31, 2024 373 150 523 Warranty provisions concern products sold. The warranty provision covers any defects in design, materials and workmanship for a period of 1-4 years from delivery and completion. Other provisions primarily consist of provisions for legal disputes, obligations regarding onerous contracts and property leases. Accounting policies Provisions Warranty provisions are recognized as the underlying goods and services are sold based on warranty costs incurred in previous years and expecta- tions of future costs. Provisions are recognized when, as a result of events before or at the bal- ance sheet date, the Group has a legal or a constructive obligation and it is probable that there may be an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits to settle the obligation. On measurement of provisions, the costs required to settle the liability are discounted if the effect is material to the measurement of the liability. A provision for onerous contracts is recognized when the expected benefits to be derived by the Group from a contract are lower than the unavoidable costs of meeting its obligations under the contract (onerous contracts). A provision for onerous contracts is recognized e.g. when the Company has entered a binding legal agreement for the purchase of components from suppliers that exceeds the benefits from the expected future use of the components and the Company can only sell the components at a loss. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 144/193 Introduction Insight into GN Store Nord's capital structure and financial items as well as financial risks. 4.1 Share capital and capital structure 145 4.2 Financial risks 146 4.3 Derivatives 150 4.4 Financial instruments 151 4.5 Liabilities from financing activities 155 4.6 Financial income and expenses 156 Section 4 - Capital structure and financing items GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 144/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 145/193 4.1 Share capital and capital structure Capital structure The Board of Directors regularly assess the capital structure. GN’s cur- rent capital structure is as follows: Adjusted leverage 3.5x NIBD/EBITDA Dividend payout of 15-25% of the annual net profit GN’s overall target is to deliver a competitive shareholder return through a combination of dividend payments and share price apprecia- tion. GN aims to distribute any excess cash to shareholders through share buyback programs, subject to amongst others, requirements to support the ongoing operations, strategic opportunities, and the capi- tal structure. GN remain focused on delivering shareholder value and will consider doing shareholder distribution again, once the leverage is closer to the long-term target of 2.0x. Cash distributions For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, there has been no dividend paid related to prior years nor there has been proposed divi- dend for the year. Share capital All shares are fully issued and paid up. The nominal value of each share is DKK 4 and no shares carry any special rights. Treasury shares The treasury shares had a market value of DKK 709 million at December 31, 2024 (2023: DKK 911 million). In 2023, an accelerated bookbuild of a directed issue and private placing of 17 million new shares and 3.6 million existing treasury shares was executed on May 24, 2023, which generated DKK 2.6 billion net of costs. Treasury shares have been acquired under share buyback program in prior years in order to reduce the share capital, hedge the option- and warrant-based long-term incentive programs as well as the obligation under the convertible bond issued in 2019. Weighted average number of shares Shares, thousands 2024 2023 Weighted average number of outstanding shares 145,613 138,883 Dilutive effect of share-based payment with positive intrinsic value – average for the period 99 108 Diluted weighted average number of shares 145,712 138,991 Result used for calculating EPS DKK million 2024 2023 Profit (loss) for the year attributable to shareholders in GN Store Nord A/S used for the calculation of earn-ings per share 988 228 Nominal value Nominal value Nominal value Treasury shares Outstanding Total number of of outstanding of treasury of total shares as a percentage Thousands shares Treasury shares shares shares (DKK) shares (DKK) (DKK) of share capital Number/value of shares at January 1, 2024 145,613 5,300 150,913 582,450 21,202 603,652 3.5% Purchase of ownership interest in subsidiaries - - - - - - Share capital increase - - - - - - Number/value of shares at December 31, 2024 145,613 5,300 150,913 582,450 21,202 603,652 3.5% Nominal value Nominal value Nominal value Treasury shares Outstanding Total number of of outstanding of treasury of total shares as a percentage Thousands shares Treasury shares shares shares (DKK) shares (DKK) (DKK) of share capital Number/value of shares at January 1, 2023 127,973 9,220 137,193 511,892 36,882 548,774 6.7% Purchase of ownership interest in subsidiaries 320 -320 - 1,280 -1,280 - Share capital increase 17,320 -3,600 13,720 69,278 -14,400 54,878 Number/value of shares at December 31, 2023 145,613 5,300 150,913 582,450 21,202 603,652 3.5% GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 146/193 4.1 Share capital and capital structure (Continued) 4.2 Financial risks GN is exposed to several financial risks arising from its operating, in- vesting and financing activities, comprising foreign currency risk, inter- est rate risk, liquidity risk and credit risk. Financial risks are to the ex- tent possible managed centrally by Group Treasury. Commercial credit risk, arising primarily from trade and other receivables, is managed de- centralized through the divisions (Hearing, Enterprise and Gaming & Consumer). The Treasury Policy is revised on a continuous basis to adapt to the changing financial risk situation, and the Treasury Policy has been re- viewed by the Audit Committee and approved by the Board of Direc- tors. The Treasury Policy, including the Limits of Authority for Group Treas- ury, sets the overall requirements and limits for the treasury activities within the Group including GN’s hedging policy. It is GN’s policy only to enter into financial transactions to mitigate risks arising from business activities, thus no transactions are made purely on speculative basis. GN’s objectives, policies and process for measuring and managing the risk exposure related to foreign currency risk, interest rate risk, liquidity risk and credit risk are summarized in the table and further explained in the notes below. Accounting policies Earnings per Share and Diluted Earnings per Share Earnings per share (EPS) is calculated by dividing the profit for the year after tax by the weighted average number of shares outstanding in the year. Diluted earnings per share is calculated by increasing the weighted average number of shares outstanding by the number of additional ordinary shares that would be outstanding if potentially dilutive shares were issued. The dilutive effect of outstanding share based payment is calculated using the Treasury Stock method. Equity Dividends The expected dividend payment for the year is disclosed as a separate item in equity. Proposed dividends are recognized as a liability at the date they are adopted by the Annual General Meeting (declaration date). Hedging reserve The hedging reserve includes the accumulated net change in the fair value of hedging transactions qualifying for hedge accounting. Treasury Shares Treasury shares are recognized at cost. Gains and losses on disposal of own shares are calculated as the difference between the purchase price measured in accordance with the FIFO - principle and the selling price. Gains or losses are recognized directly in retained earnings. Dividends received from treasury shares are recognized directly in retained earnings. Capital reductions from the cancellation of treasury shares are deducted from the share capital at an amount corresponding to the nominal value of the shares. Foreign exchange adjustments The translation reserve in the consolidated financial statements comprises foreign exchange differences arising on translation of financial statements of foreign subsidiaries from their functional currencies into the presentation currency used by GN Store Nord (DKK) and foreign exchange adjustments of balances considered to be part of the total net investment in foreign entities. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 147/193 4.2 Financial risks (Continued) Financial risk Foreign currency risk ExposureRisk Management PolicyMitigating actionsEntities within the Group transact in currencies other than their functional cur-The Treasury Policy aims to minimize the foreign currency exposure on operating GN has hedged a substantial part of the expected net EBITA in foreign currencies rency, thus are exposed to fluctuations in foreign currencies. profit, net income and free cash flow. The general policy is to manage currency to secure the EBITA contribution of the material trading currencies for the next 12 risks through natural matching of inflows and outflows or through hedging activi-months. The hedges have been designated with revenue and production cost, re-The foreign currency exposures arise primarily from purchases of materials, sales ties using commonly used derivatives such as FX spots and FX forwards. spectively as the hedged items. of products, and loans. Based on the current revenue, cost and loan composition, the primary foreign currency exposures for the Group in 2024 arise from USD and The Treasury Policy sets forth thresholds and requirements for the hedging strat-GBP. egy to be applied; a minimum of 75% and not more than 100% of the net currency exposure on EBITA level in each operating business to maintain this hedging level The EUR foreign currency risk is regarded as low in Danish entities due to Den-at any point in time. All hedging is conducted at Group level. mark’s fixed exchange rate policy towards EUR. Interest rate risk Interest rate risks arise from interest-bearing assets and liabilities. Interest-bearing The Treasury Policy aims to minimize the interest rate exposure on operating Due to the interest rate risk composition up until November 2024, GN has, in ac-items consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and bank loans and issued profit, net income and free cash flow. At least 50% of all interest-bearing debt cordance with the Treasury Policy, not been required to hedge the interest rate bonds.should be fixed-rate, either through fixed-rate agreements or through derivatives, risk position.such as interest forwards or interest swaps. Following the redemption of EMTN bond due in November 2024, the Group has exceeded the 50% floating interest rate exposure. The deviation to the Treasury Policy has been waived and approved by the Board of Directors. Liquidity risk GN’s loans and EMTN notes are primarily long-term with maturities extended until The Treasury Policy aims to ensure that sufficient funding is available to enable To mitigate potential liquidity or refinancing risks, GN has EUR 520 million Revolv-2036 with mixture of fixed and floating interest rates. GN to fulfil its financial obligations at any point in time for the next 12 months. ing Credit Facility with maturity in 2027. On December 31, 2024, the Revolving Main funding arrangements are managed or approved by Group Treasury, struc-Credit Facilities were unutilized.turing the funding facilities with committed and uncommitted facilities mainly with a group of relationship banks. Liquidity is managed centrally through cash pools and cash- and working capital management practice. Credit risk GN’s exposure to credit risk arises primarily from trade receivables, other receiva-GN has established policies for credit risk management related to customers in-GN has decentralized the credit risk management relating to customer including bles, dispenser loans and cash and cash equivalents. cluding the use of credit rating agencies. the use of credit rating agencies to the divisions (Hearing, Enterprise and Gaming & Consumer).The financial institutes applied by GN must be highly rated by Moody’s or S&P GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 148/193 4.2 Financial risks (Continued) Foreign currency risk GN has exposure towards foreign currencies, mainly arising from the fluctuations in USD and GBP. The general policy is to minimize GN's currency exposure through natural matching of in- and out-flows to mitigate the impact of exchange rate fluctuations on earnings and cash flow, thereby increasing the predictability of the financial results. Foreign currency risk is reduced by hedging the foreign currency expo- sures in accordance with the Treasury Policy. Foreign currency expo- sures are hedged through FX forwards and FX Swaps. GN’s hedging setup aims to centralize foreign currency exposure in GN Store Nord A/S through internal contracts and trade the net foreign currency ex- posures in the market. The Group has in 2024 discontinued the practice of hedging long-term loans denominated in EUR due to the EUR exchange rate risk is re- garded as low in Danish entities due to Denmark’s fixed exchange rate policy towards EUR. Sensitivity analysis for foreign currency risk The below sensitivity analyses illustrates the potential change in GN’s profit or loss and equity in a response to a weakening / strengthening of the currencies of which GN has significant exposure to at the bal- ance sheet date. This analysis assumes that all other variables in partic- ular interest rates, remain constant. At year-end an increase of 10% in the USD exchange rate and 5% in the GBP exchange rate would affect the income statement and Equity as outlined in the following table: USD GBP DKK million 2024 2023 2024 2023 Profit or loss after tax 225 -33 -1 2 Equity after tax 51 88 -23 -20 The exposure at year-end is not necessarily representative of the past or future exposure of the Group. The sensitivity analysis comprises cash and cash equivalents, current receivables, trade payables, current and non-current loans, intercom- pany balances and derivatives as of December 31. The effects of a change in foreign exchange rates related to these items would be in- cluded in the Income statement. A change in the value of derivatives used for hedging would be included in Other comprehensive income if hedge accounting is applied. Interest rate risk GN’s non-current debt have fixed and floating interest rates: listed in- struments of EUR 50 million private placement with fixed coupon of 1.97% per annum and GBP 40 million private placement with fixed cou- pon of 3.2% per annum as well as bilateral R&D loans with fixed inter- est rates, EUR 800 million Term loan drawdown with floating interest rates. GN has in 2024 successfully redeemed its EUR 330 million Bond-with- Warrant-Units 0% and notes issued under the EMTN program includ- ing EUR 600 million notes with fixed coupon of 0.875% per annum. An increase of floating interest rates of 1 percentage point would re- sult in a decrease in the annual profit of DKK 60 million (2023: DKK 9 million). Liquidity risks The Group’s capital structure includes interest bearing long-term debt with maturities between 2026 and 2036, including bank loans, notes under the Euro Medium Term Note (EMTN) program, and two drawing rights attached to a EUR 520 million committed revolving credit facil- ity and a EUR 800 million committed term loan facility. EUR 520 mil- lion committed revolving credit facility was unutilized on December 31, 2024, and EUR 800 million committed term loan facility was fully uti- lized as of December 31, 2024. (2023: EUR 520 million committed re- volving credit facility unutilized and EUR 120 million utilization out of a EUR 800 million committed term loan facility). In addition, the Group has EUR 442 million short-term, uncommitted Money Market lines and Overdraft facilities from its main relationship banks to diversify its borrowing instruments and manage its net work- ing capital movement. Money Market lines and Overdraft facilities was utilized EUR 169 million on December 31, 2024 (2023: EUR 214 million utilized). Moreover, GN has a short-term, uncommitted Euro Commercial Paper program of up to EUR 250 million. The Euro Commercial Paper pro- gram was utilized at EUR 47 million on December 31, 2024 (2023: EUR 32 million utilized). GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 149/193 4.2 Financial risks (Continued) Maturity profile GN does not operate in restricted countries, thus the Group does not have restricted cash constraints. Covenants The Group’s loan portfolio is subject to financial covenants that are common and expected for a company the size of GN Store Nord. The Group regularly monitors that compliance with the covenants is met. Credit risk Credit risk arises from the possibility that transactional counterparties may default on their obligations, causing financial losses for the Group. Credit loss refers to the impairment of financial assets due to credit losses. When financial assets are impaired by credit losses, GN dis- closes a reconciliation of changes in that account during the period for each class of financial assets, such as bad debt provisions. GN’s exposure to various risks associated with the financial instru- ments is discussed in Note 4.4. The maximum exposure to credit risk at the end of the reporting period is the carrying amount of each class of financial assets mentioned below. Trade receivables and other non-current assets GN may incur losses if the credit quality of its customers deteriorates or if they default on their payment obligations to GN. GN’s exposure to credit risk arises primarily from trade and other receivables. Such credit risk is managed decentralized through the divisions (Hearing, Enter- prise and Gaming & Consumer). Assessment of credit risks related to customers is further described in note 3.7 Trade receivables and note 3.5 Other non-current assets. Financial instruments and cash deposits Surplus cash positions in GN is mainly held in current accounts or as short-term money market deposits. Cash positions are primarily held with financial institutions through which GN conducts its day-to-day banking transactions and which are highly rated with Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s. It is GN Treasury policy that counterparties for all financial transac- tions (whether on-balance sheet or derivatives) must be highly rated fi- nancial institutions (i.e. banks with at least an external investment grade rating by Moody’s or S&P). No bank accounts may be opened without prior approval by Group Treasury. GN has entered into ISDA agreements with all financial institution counterparties used for trading derivative financial instruments under which GN has a right to set-off should certain credit event occur, which means that GN’s actual credit risk is limited to the net assets per coun- terparty. DKKm 741 369 369 369 319 722 465 1,350 5,952 3,869 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2036 2037 R&D loan Commercial paper and MM loan Drawn term loan Undrawn RCF EMTN notes HQ financing GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 150/193 4.3 Derivatives Foreign currency risk The risks relating to purchase and sales in foreign currencies are hedged using FX forwards and FX spots related to highly probable forecasted sales and purchase transactions and are designated as cash flow hedges. Derivatives used to hedge other than highly probable forecasted transactions are considered economic hedges. The primary sources of ineffectiveness are changes to planned pur- chases, sales or payments. No material ineffectiveness was detected during the year (2023: No material ineffectiveness). Fair value adjustments of cash flow and economic hedges DKK million 2024 2023 Fair value adjustment for the year recognized in Other comprehen-sive income 100 -27 Reclassified from equity to revenue during the year 15 -58 Reclassified from equity to production costs during the year -21 136 Adjustment of cash flow hedges in Other comprehensive income 94 51 Fair value adjustment of economic hedges recognized in Other op-erating income and costs, net 2 - Fair value adjustment of economic hedges recognized in financial items -123 96 All exchange rate instruments mature within 12 months from the bal- ance sheet date. Accounting policies Derivative Financial Instruments Derivative financial instruments are initially and subsequently recognized in the balance sheet at fair value. Positive and negative fair values of deriv- ative financial instruments are recognized as other receivables and paya- bles, respectively. Fair values of derivative financial instruments are com- puted on the basis of market data and generally accepted valuation meth- ods. Changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments designated as and qualifying for recognition as a hedge of the fair value of a recognized asset or liability are recognized in the income statement together with changes in the value of the hedged asset or liability as far as the hedged portion is concerned. Changes in the portion of the fair value of derivative financial instruments designated as and qualifying as a cash flow hedge that is an effective hedge of changes in the value of the hedged item are recognized in other comprehensive income. If the hedged transaction re- sults in gains or losses, amounts previously recognized in other compre- hensive income are transferred from equity to the same item as the hedged item. When a hedging instrument expires, or is terminated, or when a hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, any gains or losses previ- ously recognized in Other comprehensive income remains in Equity until the forecast transaction occurs. When the forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss that were reported in equity are immediately reclassified to the income statement. For derivative financial instruments, where hedge accounting is not applied (economic hedges), changes in fair value are recognized in the Income statement as either Other operating income and costs, net or Financial items. Exchange rate instruments 2024 2023 Average rate Contract Fair value, as-Fair value, liabil-Average rate Contract Fair value, as-Fair value, liabil-DKK million (DKK) amount, net* sets ities (DKK) amount, net* sets ities Cash flow hedges AUD / DKK 450 323 7 - 449 211 - -3 GBP** 869 568 - -11 846 515 - -2 INR / DKK 8 81 - -3 8 255 4 -1 USD / DKK 675 -621 30 - 676 -1,136 2 -15 Other currency pairs 199 9 -1 230 5 -5 Total 46 -15 11 -26 Economic hedges USD / DKK 710 -391 4 - 688 -309 54 -60 USD / EUR 704 -3,109 - -56 689 -2,860 65 - Other currency pairs -359 - - -7,761 -3 -5 Total 4 -56 116 -65 * Positive contract amounts indicate sale of currencies vs. DKK or EUR ** Includes exchange rate instruments vs. DKK and EUR GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 151/193 4.4 Financial instruments Accounting policies Financial Liabilities Amounts owed to credit institutions and banks as well as the issued EMTN bonds are recognized at the date of borrowing at fair value of the proceeds received less transaction costs paid. In subsequent periods, the financial liabilities are measured at amortized cost, corresponding to the capitalized value using the effective interest rate. Accordingly, the difference between the proceeds and the nominal value is recognized in the income statement over the term of the loan. Issued Bond-With-Warrant units are initially recognized at fair value less related transaction costs. The fair value of the bonds is estimated by calcu- lating the present value of all contractual future cash flows using an inter- est rate for a bond with similar credit risk and duration as the issued bonds, but without the attached warrants. The difference between the fair value and the proceeds is considered to be the value of the warrants and is rec- ognized in Equity. The equity component is not re-measured subsequently. After initial recognition the bonds are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. By applying the effective interest method a constant interest rate is used to increase the carrying amount of the bonds and the difference between the carrying amount and the principal amount is in this way recognized as an interest expense in Financial expenses over the remaining term to maturity. In case the bonds are redeemed before maturity, the difference between the carrying amount at amortized cost and the principal amount will be recognized as a loss in Financial expenses. Other liabilities, comprising trade payables, amounts owed to associates as well as other payables, are measured at amortized cost. Categories of financial assets and liabilities The financial assets and liabilities presented in the balance sheet can be grouped in the following categories: DKK million 2024 2023 Financial assets Trade receivables 4,673 4,442 Other receivables 751 744 Receivables from associates 211 168 Other non-current assets 1,174 1,065 Financial assets at amortized cost 6,809 6,419 Derivative financial instruments included in Other receivables 4 117 RAP, SIP, DCP and Ownership interests, etc. included in Other non-current assets 630 494 Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss 634 611 Derivative financial instruments included in Other receivables 46 11 Financial assets at fair value through Other comprehensive income 46 11 Financial liabilities Issued bonds (bond-with-warrant units), non-current 8,199 3,189 Issued EMTN bonds, non-current 371 335 Bank loans, non-current 466 3 Bank loans and issued bonds, current 1,746 9,674 Overdraft facilities 258 - Lease liabilities 447 299 Other non-current liabilities - 4 Trade payables 1,627 1,719 Financial liabilities at amortized cost 13,114 15,223 Derivative financial instruments included in Other liabilities 56 65 RAP, SIP and DCP included in Other non-current liabilities 346 265 Contingent consideration included in Other liabilities 59 90 Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss 461 420 Derivative financial instruments included in Other liabilities 16 26 Financial liabilities at fair value through Other comprehensive income 16 26 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 152/193 4.4 Financial instruments (Continued) Contractual maturity analysis for financial liabilities The maturity analysis is based on non-discounted cash flows. 2024 2023 Between one and More than three Between one and More than three DKK million Less than one year three years years Total Less than one year three years years Total Issued bonds 26 38 895 959 7,053 37 892 7,982 Bank loans 1,862 6,039 1,850 9,751 2,048 452 2,529 5,029 Lease liabilities 113 153 301 567 112 140 69 321 Other liabilities - 346 1 347 - 54 215 269 Trade payables 1,627 - - 1,627 1,719 - - 1,719 Contingent consideration - 36 23 59 35 55 - 90 Total non-derivative financial liabilities 3,628 6,612 3,070 13,310 10,967 738 3,705 15,410 Derivative financial liabilities 72 - - 72 91 - - 91 Total 3,700 6,612 3,070 13,382 11,058 738 3,705 15,501 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 153/193 4.4 Financial instruments (Continued) 2024 2023 Quoted prices Observable input Unobservable input Quoted prices Observable input Unobservable input DKK million (level 1) (level 2) (level 3) Total (level 1) (level 2) (level 3) Total Financial assets Derivative financial instruments included in Other receivables - 4 - 4 - 117 - 117 RAP, SIP, DCP included in Other non-current assets - 473 - 473 - 349 - 349 Ownership interests etc. included in Other non-current assets - - 157 157 - - 145 145 Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss - 477 157 634 - 466 145 611 Derivative financial instruments included in Other receivables - 46 - 46 - 11 - 11 Financial assets at fair value through Other comprehensive income - 46 - 46 - 11 - 11 Financial liabilities Derivative financial instruments included in Other liabilities - 56 - 56 - 65 - 65 RAP, SIP and DCP included in Other non-current liabilities - 346 - 346 - 265 - 265 Contingent consideration included in Other liabilities - - 59 59 - - 90 90 Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss - 402 59 461 - 330 90 420 Derivative financial instruments included in Other liabilities - 16 - 16 - 26 - 26 Financial liabilities at fair value through Other comprehensive income - 16 - 16 - 26 - 26 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 154/193 4.4 Financial instruments (Continued) DKK million 2024 2023 Fair value net gains (losses) recognized in the income statement: Net fair value gains (losses) on RAP, SIP and DCP 35 13 Net fair value gains (losses) on ownership interests and derivatives re. ownership interests 14 1 Net fair value gains (losses) on contingent consideration -1 7 Fair value hierarchy Financial instruments measured at fair value are categorized into the following levels of the fair value hierarchy. Level 1: Observable market prices for identical instruments. Level 2: Generally accepted valuation techniques primarily based on observable data or traded prices for compa- rable instruments. Derivatives are not traded in an ac- tive market and fair value is determined using market- based data input. Level 3: Valuation techniques primarily based on unobservable prices. Exchange rate instruments and interests rate swaps The fair value of the exchange rate instruments and interest rate swaps are determined using quoted forward exchange rates and for- ward interest rates, respectively at the balance sheet date and can be categorized as level 2 (observable inputs) in the fair value hierarchy. Ownership interests The fair value of the ownership interests is based on a market approach model. The key input is market observations of sales prices of compa- rable retail entities, combined with internal GN data such as number of sold hearing aids and the financial statements in which GN holds an in- terest. In the model, the ownership interests are divided into four groups of revenue multiple, according to the relative size and profita- bility of the dispensers. Since most of the data is based on non-observ- able data, the model is categorized as level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. The model is updated on a quarterly basis and any changes are re- flected in the Income statement or in Other comprehensive income as applicable. The fair value models are sensitive to the dispenser’s finan- cial performance for the last 24 months rolling on a quarterly basis. Derivative financial instruments related to ownership interests Derivative financial instruments related to ownership interests in dis- pensers of Hearing products, are recognized in the balance sheet at fair value. The fair value model is based on a market approach model, using market observations of sales prices of comparable retail entities. The key inputs used are the number of hearing aid units sold by customer, average selling prices, and the estimated probability that the instru- ments will be exercised. The fair value model is categorized as level 3 in the fair value hierarchy, and is updated on a quarterly basis, and any material changes are reflected in the income statement. The fair value models are sensitive to the customers financial performance the last twelve months of any quarter and the probability of the instruments being exercised. RAP, SIP and DCP programs RAP (Retirement Advantage Plan) and SIP (Savings and Investment Plan) are programs in which customers earn funds based on purchases made. DCP (Deferred Compensation Plan) is a program in which Man- agement in certain foreign subsidiaries may choose to defer compensa- tion. The asset value is based on the fair value of the mutual fund in- vestments, and the liability is based on the value generated by partici- pant contributions, participant distributions, forfeitures, and invest- ment earnings or losses. Both asset and liabilities are categorized as level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. Each quarter GN receive a report re- garding the fair value of the assets from a third-party contractor, and will update the financial statements according to this report. Contingent consideration Contingent consideration, resulting from business combinations or di- vestments, is valued at fair value at the acquisition or divestment date as part of the transaction. The fair value is based on discounted cash flows and contractual terms of the contingent considerations and on non-observable inputs, such as the financial performance of the ac- quired enterprises. The key assumptions take into consideration the probability of meeting each performance target and the discount fac- tor. Contingent considerations are categorized as level 3 (unobservable inputs) in the fair value hierarchy. The models are updated on a quar- terly basis and any changes are reflected in the income statement. The fair value models are sensitive to the financial performance of the ac- quired enterprises, the probabilities of meeting the agreed objectives and the discount factor. Fair value disclosures re. financial instruments at amortized cost Based on observable inputs (fair value hierarchy level 2), the fair value of EMTN bonds amounted to DKK 546 million (2023: DKK 4,726 mil- lion). For other financial assets and liabilities, the fair value is approxi- mately equal to the carrying amount. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 155/193 4.5 Liabilities from financing activities 2024 2023 Bank loans and Bank loans and Bank loans, Issued bonds, Other non-cur-issued bonds, Overdraft Bank loans, Issued bonds, Other non-cur-issued bonds, DKK million non-current non-current rent liabilities Lease liabilities current facilities Total non-current non-current rent liabilities Lease liabilities current Total Liabilities at January 1 503 3,024 777 298 9,674 - 14,276 2,318 7,548 867 371 6,016 17,120 Cash flows -18 -1,406 -32 -99 -1,068 258 -2,365 -1,834 2,290 -98 -104 -3,273 -3,019 Foreign exchange adjustments - - 18 2 - - 20 -2 29 28 -7 - 48 New leases - - - 268 - - 268 - - - 38 - 38 Non-cash interest expenses - - - 10 - - 10 - 30 - - - 30 Disposal on companies sold - - - -16 - - -16 - - - - - - Disposal, leases - - - -9 - - -9 - - - - - - Reclassified to current/non-current -20 6,931 - - -6,911 - - - -6,931 - - 6,931 - Reclassified to working capital - - -168 - - - -168 - - - - - - Other non-cash adjustments - 22 172 -7 51 - 238 21 58 -20 - - 59 Liabilities at December 31 465 8,571 767 447 1,746 258 12,254 503 3,024 777 298 9,674 14,276 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 156/193 4.6 Financial income and expenses DKK million 2024 2023 Financial income Gains and fair value adjustments on ownership interests 14 1 Interest income* 92 63 Financial income, other 156 4 Fair value adjustments of derivative financial instruments, net - 96 Foreign exchange gain, net 96 - Total 358 164 Financial expenses Interest expenses* -379 -326 Financial expenses, other -326 -166 Fair value adjustments of derivative financial instruments, net -106 - Foreign exchange loss, net - -100 Impairments on loans to dispensers -39 -34 Total -850 -626 *Interest income and expenses from financial assets and liabilities at amortized cost Accounting policies Financial income and expenses Financial income and expenses comprise interest income and expense, costs of permanent loan facilities, gains and losses on securities, receiva- bles, payables and transactions denominated in foreign currencies, credit card fees, amortization and impairment of financial assets and liabilities, etc. Also included are realized and unrealized gains and losses on derivative financial instruments that are not designated as hedges. Borrowing costs that are directly attributable to the construction or production of a qualifying asset form part of the cost of that asset. Other borrowing costs are recognized as an expense. A qualifying asset is an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 157/193 Introduction Statutory notes and other disclosures. 5.1 Acquisition and divestment of companies and operations 158 5.2 Share-based incentive plans 160 5.3 Contingent liabilities 163 5.4 Investments in associates 164 5.5 Other non-cash adjustments 164 5.6 Fees to statutory auditors 164 5.7 Related parties 164 5.8 Events after the reporting period 164 Section 5 - Other disclosures GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 157/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 158/193 5.1 Acquisition and divestment of companies and operations Acquisitions During 2024, there were no material business acquisitions except for the purchase of remaining shares in Lively now GN Consumer Hearing Coop- eration. (2023: no material business acquisitions). Divestments etc. GN has entered into an agreement to divest Dansk HøreCenter (DHC) to Demant. DHC was acquired by GN’s Hearing division in 2013 in connec- tion with a generational transition and is a well-reputed hearing aid retail chain operating 36 stores across Denmark. In 2023, DHC’s retail revenue accounted for approximately 1% of the Hearing division’s revenue, while the wholesale value for GN was insignificant. The transaction was completed on September 2, 2024, and demon- strates GN’s commitment to its successful strategy of not owning retail and focus on being a key partner to strong independent hearing aid dis- pensers. In line with this, GN has over the past couple of years divested the vast majority of its retail stores to focus its investments on syner- getic assets that are accretive to growth and margins. Moreover, in 2024, Hearing made minor divestments in the US. On September 14, 2023, Hearing disposed BelAudição Lda. Moreover, in 2023, Hearing divested a minor hearing instrument distributor primarily in the US. DKK million 2024 2023 Non-current assets -55 -461 Current assets -28 -101 Non-current liabilities 14 67 Current liabilities 6 41 Disposed net assets -63 -454 Cash consideration received 138 485 Directly attributable cost -3 -7 Fair value of assets received - 37 Net proceeds 135 515 Gain on divestment of operations etc. 72 61 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 159/193 5.1 Acquisition and divestment of companies and operations (Continued) Accounting policies Business Combinations Enterprises acquired or formed during the year are recognized in the consoli- dated financial statements from the date of acquisition or formation. The ac- quisition date is the date when the parent company effectively obtains con- trol of the acquired enterprise. Enterprises dis -posed of are recognized in the consolidated income statement until the di sposal date. The comparative fig- ures are not restated for acquisitions. For acquisitions of new enterprises in which the parent company is able to ex- ercise control over the acquired enterprise, the purchase method is used. The acquired enterprises’ identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities are measured at fai r value at the acquisition date. Identifiable intangible as- sets are recognized if they are separable or arise from a contractual right. De- ferred tax on revaluations is recognized. Any excess of the cost over the fair value of the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities acquired is recognized as goodwill under intangible assets. Goodwill is not amortized but is tested at least annually for impair- ment. The first im pairment test is performed within the end of the acquisition year. Upon acquisition, goodwill is allocated to the cash -generating units, which subsequently form the basis for the impairment test. Goodwill and fair value adjustments in connection with the a cquisition of a foreign entity with another functional currency than the presentation currency used by GN Store Nord are treated as assets and liabilities belonging to the foreign entity and translated into the foreign entity’s functional currency at the e xchange rate at the transaction date. The cost of a business combination comprises the fair value of the considera- tion agreed upon. When a business combination agreement provides for an adjustment to the cost of the combination contingent on future events, the amount of that adjustment is incl uded in the cost of the combination if the adjustment is probable and can be measured in a reliable manner. Subsequent changes to contingent considerations are recognized in the income state- ment. If uncertainties regarding measurement of identifiable asset s, liabilities and contingent liabilities exist at the acquisition date, initial recognition will take place on the basis of preliminary fair values. If identifiable assets, liabili- ties and contingent liabilities are subsequently determined to have differe nt fair value at the acquisition date than first assumed, goodwill is adjusted up until twelve months after the acquisition. The effect of the adjustments is rec- ognized in the opening balance of equity and the comparative figures are re- stated accordingly. When acquiring a controlling interest in steps, GN Store Nord assesses the fair value of the acquired net assets at the time control is obtained. At such time, interests acquired previously are also adjusted to fair value. The difference be- tween the fair v alue and the carrying amount is recognized in the income statement. Acquisition of additional equity interest after a business combination is not accounted for using the acquisition method, but rather as equity transactions. Disposals of equity interest while retaining control are also accounted for as equity transactions. Transactions resulting in a loss of control result in a gain or loss being recognized in the income statement. When acquiring less than 100% of the shares in a company, GN Store Nord recognizes the goodwill on a transaction -by-transaction basis or as a propor- tion of goodwill in accordance with GN Store Nord’s ownership interest. In business combinations where put options have been issued regarding shares held by non -controlling interests the non-controlling interests are rec- ognized initially. As long as the put options remain unexercised the non -con- trolling interests are updated at the end of each reporting period, including its share of allocations of profit or loss. The non -controlling interests are thereaf- ter derecognized by recognizing a financial liability for the put options and the difference is included as an equity transac tion. If the put options are exer- cised, the same treatment is applied up to the date of exercise. The amount recognized as the financial liability at that date, is extinguished by the pay- ment of the exercise price. If the put option expires unexercised, th e position is unwound so the non -controlling interest is recognized at the amount it would have been, had the put options never been issued. The financial liability is derecognized in equity . Key accounting estimates Purchase price allocation in business combinations The application of the acquisition method for business combinations involves the use of significant estimates as the identifiable net assets of the acquiree are recognized at their fair value for which observable market prices are typically not available. This is particularly relevant for intangible assets which require use of valuation techniques. Accordingly, management makes estimates of the fair value of acquired assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities. Depending on the nature of the item, the determined fair value of an item may be associat ed with uncertainty and possibly adjusted subsequently. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 160/193 5.2 Share-based incentive plans Option and warrant programs GN Store Nord has an option-based and a warrant-based long-term equity-settled incentive program whereby the Executive Management and other employees in key positions are granted options and warrants linked to shares in GN Store Nord A/S, GN Hearing A/S and GN Audio A/S. For members of Executive Management the grant size can vary be- tween 50-100% of their base salary. Warrants and options are granted at no consideration. The warrant program, which was granted from 2015-2018, was struc- tured around the previous segments of the Group. It involved calculating the allocation of GN Store Nord A/S’s share price among GN Hearing, GN Audio, and Other. All vested warrants from this program expired in 2023. In contrast, the option programs granted from 2019-2024 are based on shares of GN Store Nord A/S. Calculation of share price for GN Hearing A/S and GN Audio A/S for the warrant program The old warrant program was based on a quarterly calculation of the share price for GN Hearing A/S and GN Audio A/S, using a top-down ap- proach based on analysis of external broker reports for the allocation of GN Store Nord A/S’ share price into GN Hearing, GN Audio and Other. This calculation is also the basis for the Black-Scholes valuation as stated below regarding valuation of warrants. Vesting conditions and exercise of warrants The 2015-2018 warrant programs are incentive programs with a three- year vesting period from the grant date. Warrants vest when a set of cri- teria are met: The share price of GN Store Nord has increased and the share price of GN Hearing A/S and GN Audio A/S has outperformed a peer group index of competitors and industry indices, as defined by the Board of Directors of GN Hearing and GN Audio, respectively. Vested warrants may be exercised during a four-week exercise window opening each quarter for a three-year period after vesting. The quarterly four- week exercise window will open following the release of an external Val- uation Report concerning the value of the shares of GN Hearing A/S and GN Audio A/S. Vesting conditions and exercise of options The 2019-2024 programs are long-term incentive programs with a three- year vesting period from the grant date. The programs include a perfor- mance multiplier, based on revenue growth and EBITDA improvement relative to a broad peer group of comparable companies. This means, that after the three-year vesting period, the initial share option grant can either increase, decrease or stay the same, depending on GN’s per- formance relative to a peer group. The maximum effect of the perfor- mance multiplier is to decrease the number of options to 0 or increase the number of options by a factor of 2. For executive management the gross return on each annual grant is capped at a value equal to four times the annual base salary at the time of grant. Vested options may be exercised at any time outside black-out periods for a three-year period after vesting. In 2024, the 2021 grant did not vest as the vesting criteria related to EBITDA improvement in the period 2021-2024 was not met. Valuation model and assumptions The fair value of the warrants and options are calculated using the prin- ciples of the Black-Scholes option pricing model. For the 2015-2018 war- rants the model has taken the overperformance criteria into account us- ing Monte Carlo simulation. The fair values of options granted during the year are based on the underlying market prices at the grant dates. The exercise price for the annual ordinary grant of options is based on the average share price for GN Store Nord A/S in the five days following the release of the annual report in the year in which the options are awarded. The following assumptions were applied for the calculation of the fair value at the grant date of GN Store Nord A/S options: Executive Management Other employees 2024 2023 2024 2023 Number of options granted in the year 200,360 296,139 1,333,958 1,514,675 Share price of GN Store Nord A/S at ordinary grant date 183 167 183 167 Vesting period 3 years 3 years 3 years 3 years Life of option 6 years 6 years 6 years 6 years Volatility* 45% 43% 45% 42% Expected dividend 0.4% 0.4% 0.4% 0.5% Risk-free interest rate** 2.37% 2.52% 2.37% 2.72% Fair value per option at ordinary grant (DKK)*** 45**** 46 70 61 Total fair value at grant (DKK million) 9 17 93 93 Amortization period of the program 2024 - 2027 2023 - 2026 2024 - 2027 2023 - 2026 * Volatility is estimated by external experts, and is calculated based on data from a historical period matching the expected time to expiry of the options ** Risk-free interest rate is estimated by external experts and based on the zero yield curve derived from Danish government bonds with maturity equal to the expiry of the options *** The fair value assumes a performance multiplier of 1 **** Weighted average of the fair value of options granted to executive management adjusted for the cap GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 161/193 5.2 Share-based incentive plans (Continued) Exercise of warrants and options In 2023, the average exercise price for the remaining vested warrants that were exercised was DKK 33,913. This price was determined based on the allocated share price of GN Audio A/S on the date of exercise. When employees choose to exercise their warrants, these are converted into shares of GN Store Nord A/S, based on the relationship between the value of the warrant and the share price of GN Store Nord A/S at the time of exercise. Hereafter, employees have the option to either retain the GN Store Nord A/S shares or sell them on the open market. In 2024, there has been no exercise of vested share options. GN Store Nord A/S GN Hearing A/S** DKK Number of options* DKK Number of warrants Average Executive Average Executive exercise Manage-Other exercise Manage-Other price ment employees Total price ment employees Total Outstanding at January 1, 2023 366 724,487 2,328,740 3,053,227 32,982 656 979 1,635 - Granted during the year 164 296,139 1,514,675 1,810,814 33,913 -656 -148 -804 Exercised during the year - - - - 32,082 - -831 -831 Forfeited during the year 362 -168,762 -650,421 -819,183 Outstanding at December 31, 2023 279 851,864 3,192,994 4,044,858 - - - - 179 200,360 1,333,958 1,534,318 Granted during the year - - - - - - - - Exercised during the year - - - - 507 -96,500 -379,297 -475,797 Forfeited during the year - - - - Outstanding at December 31, 2024 225 955,724 4,147,655 5,103,379 - - - - 2.9 3.7 3.5 Weighted average term to maturity (Years) - - - Exercisable at December 31, 2023 313,725 701,869 1,015,594 - - - Exercisable at December 31, 2024 313,725 687,352 1,001,077 - - - * Recognition of expenses on options granted are accelerated for participants not forfeiting the vesting conditions in connection with terminations (good leavers) unless a service is provided in the remaining vesting period. The recognised expenses in 2024 include acceleration of 164,654 options granted to Other employees of the Group. ** In 2024, GN Audio A/S was legally merged with GN Hearing A/S as part of the OneGN transformation initiative. The reconciliation of the outstanding number of warrants for 2023 reflects the combined totals for both entities. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 162/193 5.2 Share-based incentive plans (Continued) Outstanding warrants and options at December 31, 2024 by grant date are shown below: Accounting policies Share-based incentive plans The Executive Management and a number of key employees are included in share-based incentive plans (equity-settled plans). For equity-settled pro- grams, the warrants and options are measured at the fair value at the grant date and recognized in the income statement as a staff cost of the respective functions over the vesting period. The counter item is recog- nized in equity. On initial recognition, an estimate is made of the number of warrants and options expected to vest. This estimate is subsequently re- vised for changes in the number of warrants and options expected to vest. Accordingly, recognition is based on the number of warrants and options that are ultimately vested. The fair value of granted warrants and options is estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Vesting condi- tions are taken into account when estimating the fair value of the warrants and options. GN Store Nord A/S DKK Number of options* Exercise Executive Other Grant date price Management employees Total April 2019** 313 237,812 678,353 916,165 June 2019** 325 - 8,999 8,999 September 2019** 282 75,913 - 75,913February 2022 368 145,500 476,447621,947March 2022 307 -36,121 36,121May 2022 224 - 208,861208,861September 2022 209 - 8,855 8,855 February 2023 164 94,000 1,394,008 1,488,008 March 2023 151 97,300 -97,300April 2023 149 -4,215 4,215June 2023 170 104,839 -104,839October 2023 125 - 4,387 4,387February 2024 179 200,360 1,315,461 1,515,821 April 2024 184 -4,754 4,754 August 2024 176 -7,194 7,194 Outstanding at December 31 955,724 4,147,655 5,103,379 * The performance multiplier can decrease the number of non-vested options to 0 or as maximum effect increase the number by a factor of two. ** For the 2019 program, number of options have increased by final multiplier of 1.71 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 163/193 5.3 Contingent liabilities Guarantees The majority of guarantees are related to performance guarantees. Security The Group has not pledged any assets as security in the present or prior financial years. Purchase obligations GN has agreed with a number of suppliers that the suppliers will pur- chase components for the production of hearing instruments and head- sets based on sales estimates prepared by GN. To the extent that GN's sales estimates exceed actual purchases from suppliers, GN is under an obligation to purchase any remaining components from the suppliers. Management assesses sales estimates on an ongoing basis. To the extent that component inventories at suppliers exceed the volumes expected to be used, GN recognizes a provision for onerous purchase contracts. Pending litigations and disputes The GN Group is party to pending litigations, claims and disputes arising out of the normal conduct of their business including various cases in- volving patent infringements. While provisions that Management deems to be reasonable and appropriate have been made for probable losses, there are uncertainties connected with these estimates. GN does not ex- pect the pending litigations and claims to have a material impact on GN’s financial position, operating profit or cash flows in addition to the amounts recognized as provisions for legal disputes. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 164/193 5.4 Investments in associates DKK million 2024 2023 Aggregated financial information for associates: Total share of profit (loss) in associates, including im- -7 -64 pairments Total share of net assets in associates 296 276 Carrying amount of associates 296 276 Transactions with associates comprise sale of goods of DKK 138 million (2023: DKK 101 million). At year end GN has DKK 211 million (2023: DKK 168 million) in receivables from associates and DKK 43 million (2023: DKK 41 million) of payables to associates in other non-current lia- bilities. There were no profit of dividend received in excess of carrying value of the associates to be included in Share of profit (loss) in associ- ates in 2024 and 2023. 5.5 Other non-cash adjustments DKK million 2024 2023 Share-based payment (granted) -36 18 (Gain) loss on divestment of operations -72 -61 Loss allowance on trade receivables, inventory write-downs, etc. -20 80 (Gain) or loss on sale of assets 9 -5 Adjustment of provisions 38 92 Other adjustments -32 - Total -113 124 5.6 Fees to statutory auditors DKK million 2024 2023 Statutory audit -11 -11 Tax advice services -1 -1 Other assurance engagements -3 - Other services -3 -5 Total -18 -17 Note: PwC's global non-audit service fees amount to 22% when considering decimals. Fees for services other than statutory audit of the financial statements and other assurance engagements amounts to DKK 4 million (2023: DKK 6 million). Services other than statutory audit of the financial statements provided by PricewaterhouseCoopers Statsautoriseret Revisionspartnerselskab (PricewaterhouseCoopers Denmark) mainly consist of tax related advice, transaction/project support, technical accounting advisory services, other advisory services and other assurance assessments and opinions. 5.7 Related parties No single entity or person has control or exercises significant influence over the GN Group as a whole. Key Management personnel and associ- ated companies are the sole related parties of the Group. Transactions with Key Management personnel constitute remuneration, as disclosed in note 2.3 Staff costs and management remuneration and 5.2 Share- based incentive plans, and transactions with associates are disclosed in note 5.4 Investments in associates. 5.8 Events after the reporting period No material subsequent events have occurred. Accounting policies Investments in Associates in the Consolidated Financial Statements On acquisition of investments in associates, the purchase method is used, cf. Business Combinations. In the consolidated financial statements, investments in associates are rec- ognized according to the equity method. Investments in associates are measured at the proportionate share of the enterprises’ net asset values calculated in accordance with the Group’s accounting policies minus or plus the proportionate share of unrealized intra-group profits and losses and plus the carrying amount of goodwill. Profit (loss) from Investments in Associates The proportionate share of the profit (loss) after tax of the individual asso- ciates is recognized in the income statement of the Group after elimination of the proportionate share of intra-group profits (losses). GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 165/193 Domicile Currency Ownership % Share capital GN Store Nord A/S Denmark DKK 603,650,860 GN Financing A/S Denmark DKK 100 400,001 Falcom A/S Denmark DKK 100 88,504,000 GN Audio DK Sales A/S Denmark DKK 100 400,000 GN Audio Australia Pty Ltd. Australia AUD 100 2,500,000 GN Áudio Brasil Importacão & Comércio Ltda. Brazil BRL 100 407,821 GN Audio Canada Inc. Canada CAD 100 409,800 GN Audio (China) Ltd. China CNY 100 65,252,600 GN Audio (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. China CNY 100 15,481,000 GN Audio Logistic (Xiamen) Ltd. China CNY 100 4,133,738 GN Audio France SA France EUR 100 80,000 GN Audio Germany GmbH Germany EUR 100 51,100 GN Audio Hong Kong Limited Hong Kong HKD 100 33,500,000 GN Audio India Private Limited India INR 100 40,000,000 Jabra Connect India Private Limited India INR 51 20,000,000 GN Audio Italy s.r.l. Italy EUR 100 10,200 GN Audio Japan Ltd. Japan JPY 100 10,000,000 GN Audio Benelux B.V. Netherlands EUR 100 18,000 GN Audio Philippines, Inc. Philippines PHP 100 10,000,000 GN Audio Poland Sp. Z.o.o. Poland PLN 100 50,000 GN SDC Poland Sp. Z.o.o. Poland PLN 100 50,000 GN Audio Singapore Pte. Ltd. Singapore SGD 100 700,000 Jabra Connect Singapore Pte.Ltd. Singapore USD 51 12,000 GN Audio Spain, S.A. Spain EUR 100 66,111 GN Audio Sweden AB Sweden SEK 100 5,100,000 GN Audio UK Ltd. United Kingdom GBP 100 100,000 Falcom US, LLC* USA USD 100 - SteelSeries France S.A.S France EUR 100 2,363,600 Nahimic Singapore Pte. Ltd. Singapore SGD 100 341,001 GN Audio Finland Oy/Ab Finland EUR 100 - GN Audio Norway AS Norway NOK 100 30,000 3D Aim Trainer BV Belgium EUR 100 2,079,502 Domicile Currency Ownership % Share Capital GN Hearing A/S Denmark DKK 100 65,252,600 GN Hearing Australia Pty. Ltd. Australia AUD 100 4,000,002 GN Hearing Austria GmbH Austria EUR 100 482,500 GN ReSound Produtos Médicos Ltda. Brazil BRL 100 1,019,327 GN Hearing Care Canada Ltd. Canada CAD 100 8,435,000 GN Hearing Shanghai Ltd. China CNY 100 20,491,300 GN ReSound China Ltd. China CNY 100 34,000,000 GN Hearing Czech Republic spol. s r.o. Czech Republic CZK 100 102,000 Audigy Group International A/S Denmark DKK 100 400,000 GN Hearing Finland Oy/Ab Finland EUR 100 55,502 GN Hearing SAS France EUR 100 2,300,000 GN Hearing GmbH Germany EUR 100 296,549 GN ReSound GmbH Hörtechnologie Germany EUR 100 2,162,253 GN Hearing India Private Limited India INR 100 20,983,210 GN Hearing S.r.l. Italy EUR 100 181,190 GN Hearing Japan K.K. Japan JPY 100 499,000,000 GN Hearing Korea Co., Ltd. Korea KRW 100 136,700,000 GN Hearing (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd Malaysia MYR 100 2,500,000 GN Hearing Benelux B.V. Netherlands EUR 100 680,670 GN Hearing New Zealand Limited New Zealand NZD 100 2,000,000 GN Hearing Norway AS Norway NOK 100 2,000,000 GN Hearing Care S.A. Spain EUR 100 66,110 GN Hearing Sverige AB Sweden SEK 100 100,000 GN Hearing Switzerland AG Switzerland CHF 100 500,000 GN Hearing UK Ltd. United Kingdom GBP 100 7,376,000 GN Consumer Hearing Cooperation USA USD 100 35,232,370 GN US Holdings Inc. USA USD 100 36,000,000 Great Hearing Benefits, LLC* USA USD 100 - Beltone Holdings US, LLC USA USD 100 3,000 Beltone Hearing Care Foundation* USA USD 100 - GN Hearing Care Corporation USA USD 100 190,000 Audigy Group, LLC* USA USD 100 - Audigy Venture, LLC* USA USD 100 - Companies in GN Group GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 166/193 Companies in the GN Group (Continued) Domicile Currency Ownership % Share capital Associates Audio Nova S.R.L. Romania ROL 49 1,000 Himpp A/S Denmark DKK 9 1,600,000 Hearing Instrument Manufactures Software Association A/S Denmark DKK 25 1,000,000 HIMSA II A/S Denmark DKK 17 500,000 Himsa II K/S Denmark DKK 15 3,250,000 K/S Himpp Denmark USD 9 19,950,000 Progetto Udire S.R.L. Italy EUR 35 838,700 BelMart LLC USA USD 30 3,556,822 Bold North Beltone, LLC* USA USD 30 - AXE Audiology, LLC* USA USD 30 - Statewide Hearing, LLC* USA USD 30 - Beltopia LLC USA USD 25 1,734,500 HearX Group (pty) LTD South Africa USD 27 31,000,000 Louqe AB Corporation Sweden SEK 26 - * Without par value Note: Minor companies have been omitted from the list. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 167/193 In this annual report the following financial terms and non-IFRS measures are used: Operating profit (loss) Profit (loss) before tax and financial items EBITDA Operating profit (loss) before depreciation and impairment of property, plant and equipment, amor-tization and impairment of intangible assets, except development projects, impairment of goodwill and gains (losses) on divestment of operations etc.. EBITDA therefore include amortization of development projects EBITA Operating profit (loss) before amortization and impairment of acquired intangible assets, impair-ment of goodwill and gains (losses) on divestment of operations etc. EBITA therefore include amor-tization of development projects and software developed in-house. Free cash flow Cash flow from operating and investing activities Convertible bond EUR 330 million senior unsecured zero coupon bonds redeemed in 2024 with detachable unsecured warrant units (refer to note 4.2 Financial risks) Key Ratio Definitions Organic growth=Absolute organic revenue growth Revenue in comparative period Organic growth is a measure of growth excluding the impact of acquisitions, divestments and for-eign exchange adjustments from year-on-year comparisons Net working capital (NWC) = Inventories + receivables + other operating assets - trade payables - other operating liabilities Net interest bearing debt (NIBD) = Bank loans and issued bonds + Overdraft facilities + Lease liabilities - Cash and cash equivalents - Loans to dispensers Dividend payout ratio = Total dividend Profit (loss) for the year Gross margin = Gross profit Revenue EBITA margin = EBITA Revenue ROIC (Return on invested =EBITA capital including goodwill) Average invested capital including goodwill Invested capital = NWC + property, plant and equipment and intangible assets + loans to dispensers of Hearing prod-ucts + pre-paid discounts + ownership interests – provisions Cash conversion = Free cash flow excl. company acquisitions and divestments EBITA Return on equity (ROE)=Profit (loss) for the year Average equity of the Group Equity ratio = Equity of the Group Total assets Earnings per share, basic (EPS) = Profit (loss) for the year attributable to shareholders in GN Store Nord A/S Average number of shares outstanding Earnings per share, fully diluted = Profit (loss) for the year attributable to shareholders in GN Store Nord A/S (EPS diluted)Average number of shares outstanding, fully diluted Market capitalization Number of shares outstanding x share price at the end of the period Outstanding shares Number of shares listed - treasury shares GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Consolidated Content 168/193 Income statements 169 Statement of comprehensive income 169 Balance sheet at December 31 170 Statement of cash flow 171 Statement of equity 172 Parent Company Financial statements GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Parent Company Content 168/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Parent Company Content 169/193 DKK million Note 2024 2023 Revenue 898 738 Gross profit 898 738 Development costs -194 -66 Management and administrative expenses 1,2,3,4 -1,059 -1,021 Other operating income and costs, net -12 -23 Operating profit (loss) -367 -372 Share of profit after tax in subsidiaries 10 1,712 670 Share of profit (loss) in associates 11 - -33 Financial income 5 224 432 Financial expenses 5 -690 -418 Profit (loss) before tax 879 279 Tax on profit (loss) 6 109 -51 Profit (loss) for the year 988 228 Proposed profit appropriation/distribution of loss Transferred to reserve for net revaluation according to the equity method 1,712 670 Transferred to reserve for development projects 139 95 Retained earnings -863 -537 988 228 DKK million 2024 2023 Profit (loss) for the year 988 228 Other comprehensive income Items that may be reclassified subsequently to the income statement Foreign exchange adjustments, etc. 269 -279 Other changes in equity in subsidiaries 53 60 Tax relating to other comprehensive income -10 -11 Other comprehensive income for the year 312 -230 Total comprehensive income for the year 1,300 -2 Income statement Statement of comprehensive income GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Parent Company Content 170/193 DKK million Note 2024 2023 Assets Intangible assets 7 1,809 1,694 Property, plant and equipment 8, 9 30 43 Investments in subsidiaries 10 18,549 16,587 Amounts owed by subsidiaries 14 214 289 Other non-current assets 4 4 Total non-current assets 20,606 18,617 Tax receivables 59 61 Other receivables 14 327 339 Cash and cash equivalents 688 4,537 Total current assets 1,074 4,937 Total assets 21,680 23,554 Equity and liabilities Share capital 15 604 604 Other reserves 4,446 2,345 Retained earnings 5,774 6,638 Total equity 10,824 9,587 Bank loans and issued bonds, non-current 14, 17 8,571 3,024 Lease liabilities, non-current 9, 14 8 18 Provisions, non-current 26 - Deferred tax liabilities 12 44 86 Total non-current liabilities 8,649 3,128 Bank loans and issued bonds, current 14, 17 1,725 9,674 Lease liabilities, current 9, 14 8 8 Trade payables 14 116 125 Amounts owed to subsidiaries 14, 17 57 749 Provisions, current - 49 Other current liabilities 301 234 Total current liabilities 2,207 10,839 Total equity and liabilities 21,680 23,554 Balance sheet at December 31 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Parent Company Content 171/193 DKK million Note 2024 2023 Operating activities Operating profit (loss) -367 -372 Depreciation, amortization and impairment 3 152 205 Other non-cash adjustments 2 43 Cash flow from operating activities before changes in working capital -213 -124 Change in receivables 117 -89 Change in trade payables and other payables -663 7 Total changes in working capital -546 -82 Cash flow from operating activities before financial items and tax -759 -206 Interest and dividends, etc. received 219 405 Interest paid -635 -332 Tax paid, net 71 187 Cash flow from operating activities -1,104 54 Investing activities Investments in intangible assets 7 -264 -980 Investments in property, plant and equipment 8 - -1 Investments in other non-current assets - -4 Amounts owed by subsidiaries - -5,074 Cash flow from investing activities -264 -6,059 Cash flow from operating and investing activities (free cash flow) -1,368 -6,005 DKK million Note 2024 2023 Financing activities Proceeds from issuance of bonds - 2,290 Repayment of borrowings 3 -1,068 -5,574 Repayment of issued bonds -1,406 - Repayment of lease liabilities -7 -8 Proceeds from share placement, net of costs - 2,621 Share-based payment (exercised) - 19 Cash flow from financing activities -2,481 -652 Net cash flow -3,849 -6,657 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 4,537 11,194 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period 688 4,537 Statement of cash flows GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Parent Company Content 172/193 2024 Other reserves DKK million Share capital* Hedging reserve Treasury shares Reserve according to the equity method Reserve for devel- opment projects Proposed dividends for the year Retained earnings Total equity Balance at January 1, 2024 604 - -2,725 4,269 801 - 6,638 9,587 Profit (loss) for the period - - - 1,712 139 - -863 988 Other changes in equity in subsidiaries - - - 53 - - - 53 Foreign currency translation adjust- ments of investments in subsidiaries etc. - - - 269 - - - 269 Tax relating to other comprehensive income - - - -10 - - -10 Other comprehensive income for the year - - - 312 - - - 312 Total comprehensive income for the year - - - 2,024 139 - -863 1,300 Share-based payment (granted) - - - - - - -1 -1 Other changes in equity in subsidiaries - - - -62 - - - -62 Balance at December 31, 2024 604 - -2,725 6,231 940 - 5,774 10,824 The reserve according to the equity method includes foreign exchange adjustments of DKK -786 million (2023: DKK -1,062 million). Retained earnings, which are available for distribution from the Parent Company amounts to DKK 3,049 million (2023: DKK 3,913 million). 2023 Other reserves DKK million Share capital* Hedging reserve Treasury shares Reserve according to the equity method Reserve for devel- opment projects Proposed dividends for the year Retained earnings Total equity Balance at January 1, 2023 549 - -3,366 3,684 706 - 5,227 6,800 Profit (loss) for the period - - - 670 95 - -537 228 Other changes in equity in subsidiaries - - - 60 - - - 60 Foreign currency translation adjust- ments of investments in subsidiaries etc. - - - -279 - - - -279 Tax relating to other comprehensive income - - - -13 - 2 -11 Other comprehensive income for the year - - - -232 - - 2 -230 Total comprehensive income for the year - - - 438 95 - -535 -2 Increase in share capital 55 - - - - - 2,021 2,076 Other changes in equity in subsidiaries - - - 147 - - - 147 Purchase of ownership interests in subsidiaries by payment in treasury shares - - 96 - - - -69 27 Share-based payment (granted) - - - - - - -6 -6 Purchase of treasury shares - - 545 - - - - 545 Balance at December 31, 2023 604 - -2,725 4,269 801 - 6,638 9,587 Statement of changes in equity GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Parent Company Content 173/193 Notes – Income statement and balance sheet 1 Staff costs and management remuneration 174 2 Share-based incentive plans 174 3 Depreciation, amortization and impairment 175 4 Fees to statutory auditors 175 5 Financial income and expenses 176 6 Tax 176 7 Intangible assets 177 8 Property, plant and equipment 178 9 Leases 179 10 Investments in subsidiaries 180 11 Investments in associates 180 12 Deferred tax 180 13 Contingent assets and liabilities 180 Notes – Other disclosures 14 Financial instruments 181 15 Share capital and capital structure 182 16 Related party transactions 182 17 Liabilities from financing activities 183 18 Accounting policies 183 Parent Company notes GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Parent Company Content 173/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Parent Company Content 174/193 1 Staff costs and management remuneration DKK million 2024 2023 Wages, salaries and remuneration 296 316 Pensions 30 27 Share-based incentives -1 6 Other social security costs 2 2 Total 327 351 Executive Management remuneration can be specified as follows: Fixed pay* 15 15 Short term incentives 12 13 Share-based incentives 7 - Total 34 28 Board of Directors remuneration 10 6 Total remuneration 44 34 Staff costs are included in Management and adminis- trative expenses. Average number of FTEs 372 359 Number of FTEs at year-end 397 354 * Fixed pay include Base salary and Other benefits. Other benefits include car allowances, company paid telephone and internet cost For information regarding Executive Management and Board of Direc- tors total remuneration please refer to Note 2.3 Staff cost and man- agement remuneration in the consolidated financial statements. 2 Share-based incentive plans For 2019-2024 a share-based incentive plan has been implemented in GN Store Nord. For a description of this, see note 5.2 Share-based in- centive plans in the consolidated financial statements. The following assumptions were applied for the calculation of the fair value at the grant date of the options: Recognition of expenses on options granted are accelerated for partici- pants not forfeiting the vesting conditions in connection with termina- tions (good leavers) unless a service is provided in the remaining vest- ing period. The recognized expenses in 2024 include acceleration of 83,271 options granted to Other employees of GN Store Nord A/S (2023: 27,537 options accelerated). Executive Management Other employees 2024 2023 2024 2023 Number of options awarded in the year 200,360 202,139 119,709 118,820 Share price of GN Store Nord A/S at ordinary grant date 183 167 183 167 Vesting period 3 years 3 years 3 years 3 years Life of option 6 years 6 years 6 years 6 years Volatility* 45% 43% 45% 42% Expected dividend 0.4% 0.4% 0.4% 0.5% Risk-free interest rate** 2.37% 2.43% 2.36% 2.72% Fair Value per option at ordinary grant (DKK)*** 45**** 46 70 61 Total market value at grant (DKK million) 9 12 8 7 Amortization period of the program 2024 - 2027 2023 - 2026 2024 - 2027 2023 - 2026 * Volatility is estimated by external experts, and is calculated based on data from a historical period matching the expected time to expiry of the options ** Risk-free interest rate is estimated by external experts and based on the zero yield curve derived from Danish government bonds with maturity equal to the expiry of the options *** The fair value assumes a performance multiplier of 1 **** Weighted average of the fair value of options granted to executive management adjusted for the cap GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Parent Company Content 175/193 2 Share-based incentive plans (Continued) 3 Depreciation, amortization and impairment Depreciation, amortization and impairment for the year of property, plant and equipment (incl. leased assets) and intangible assets of DKK 150 million (2023: DKK 208 million), is recognized in the income state- ment as management and administrative expenses. 4 Fees to statutory auditors DKK million 2024 2023 Statutory audit -2 -3 Tax advice services -1 -1 Other assurance engagements -3 - Other services -1 -4 Total -7 -8 Services other than statutory audit are described in note 5.6 Fees to statutory auditors in the consolidated financial statements. DKK Number Average exercise price Executive Management Other employees Total Outstanding options at January 1, 2023 375 202,994 231,746 434,740 Options granted during the year 167 202,139 118,820 320,959 Options forfeited during the year/corrections 378 -49,585 -84,621 -134,206 Outstanding options at December 31, 2023 284 355,548 265,945 621,493 Options granted during the year 179 200,360 119,709 320,069 Option increase from multiplier at vesting - - - - Options exercised during the year - - - - Options forfeited during the year/corrections 502 -18,250 -41,474 -59,724 Outstanding options at December 31, 2024 217 537,658 344,180 881,838 Weighted average term to maturity (Years) 3.7 3.4 3.6 Number of exercisable options at December 31, 2023 108,659 84,319 192,978 Number of exercisable options at December 31, 2024 108,659 85,004 193,663 *The performance multiplier can decrease the number of options to 0 or as maximum effect increase the number of options by a factor of 2 DKK Number Grant date Exercise price Executive Management Other employees Total April 2019** 313 108,659 85,004 193,663 February 2022 368 26,500 37,893 64,393 March 2022 307 - 3,158 3,158 February 2023 164 - 101,398 101,398 March 2023 151 97,300 - 97,300 June 2023 170 104,839 - 104,839 February 2024 179 200,360 104,779 305,139 April 2024 184 - 7,194 7,194 August 2024 176 - 4,754 4,754 Outstanding options at December 31, 2024 537,658 344,180 881,838 * The performance multiplier can decrease the number of non-vested options to 0 or as maximum effect increase the number by a factor of 2 ** For the 2019 program, number of options have increased by final multiple of 1.71 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Parent Company Content 176/193 5 Financial income and expenses DKK million 2024 2023 Financial income Interest income from subsidiaries* 164 354 Interest income from bank balances* 20 14 Financial income, other - 1 Fair value adjustment of derivative financial instru- ments, net 40 63 Total 224 432 Financial expenses Interest expense to subsidiaries* -139 -8 Interest expenses on bank loans and issued bonds* -313 -310 Financial expenses, other -183 -89 Foreign exchange loss, net -55 -11 Total -690 -418 *Interest income and expenses from financial assets and liabilities at amortized cost 6 Tax DKK million 2024 2023 Tax on profit (loss) Current tax for the year 149 119 Deferred tax for the year -31 -45 Adjustment to current tax in respect of prior years -82 7 Adjustment to deferred tax in respect of prior years 73 -7 Total 109 74 Reconciliation of effective tax rate Danish tax rate 22.0% 22.0% Non-taxable income -0.4% 0.9% Non-deductible expenses 7.7% -2.5% Adjustment of tax with respect of prior years 1.1% 0.0% Share of profit (loss) in subsidiaries -42.7% 6.2% Other, including provisions for uncertain tax positions -0.1% 0.0% Effective tax rate -12.4% 26.6% In 2024, the company paid preliminary taxes of DKK 85 million in Dan- ish corporate income tax for the year on behalf of the joint Group taxa- tion (2023: DKK 0 million was paid in final tax for the year in Danish corporate income tax). GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Parent Company Content 177/193 7 Intangible assets The carrying amount includes software in progress of DKK 813 million (2023: DKK 642 million). 2024 2023 DKK million Software Patents & License Total Software Patents & License Total Cost at January 1 1,687 667 2,354 1,374 - 1,374 Additions 264 - 264 313 667 980 Disposals -66 - -66 - - - Cost at December 31 1,885 667 2,552 1,687 667 2,354 Amortization and impairment at January 1 -660 - -660 -469 - -469 Amortization -76 -62 -138 -58 - -58 Disposals 55 - 55 - - - Impairment - - - -133 - -133 Amortization and impairment at December 31 -681 -62 -743 -660 - -660 Carrying amount at December 31 1,204 605 1,809 1,027 667 1,694 Amortized over 3-10 years 3-10 years 3-10 years 3-10 years GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Parent Company Content 178/193 8 Property, plant and equipment Operating assets and equipment are depreciated over 2-7 years. 2024 2023 DKK million Factory and office buildings Operating assets and equip- ment Total Factory and office buildings Operating assets and equip- ment Total Cost at January 1 - 64 64 - 63 63 Additions - 1 1 Cost at December 31 - 64 64 - 64 64 Depreciation and impairment at January 1 - -43 -43 - -36 -36 Depreciation - -6 -6 - -6 -6 Depreciation and impairment at December 31 - -49 -49 - -42 -42 Carrying amount at December 31 - 15 15 - 22 22 Leased assets, c.f. note 9 13 2 15 19 2 21 Total carrying amount at December 31 13 17 30 19 24 43 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Parent Company Content 179/193 9 Leases Lease liabilities DKK million 2024 2023 Contractual maturity analysis of lease liabilities: Less than one year 9 8 Between one and three years 10 15 More than three years - 3 Total 19 26 The maturity analysis is based on non-discounted cash flows. The parent company’s leases mainly consist of property leases of e.g. offices but also include cars and office equipment. Rental contracts are typically made for fixed periods but may have extension options. Con- tracts may contain both lease and non-lease components. In such cases the consideration in the contract is allocated to the lease and Amounts expensed in the income statement and total cash outflow DKK million 2024 2023 Interest expense on lease liabilities - 1 Expense relating to low-value assets and short-term leases 5 2 Total cash outflow regarding lease liabilities 7 6 non-lease components based on their relative stand-alone prices. Lease terms are negotiated on an individual basis and contain a wide range of different terms and conditions. The following right-of-use assets from leases are included in property, plant and equipment: Leased assets 2024 2023 DKK million Factory and office buildings Operating assets and equipment Total Factory and office buildings Operating assets and equipment Total Carrying amount at January 1 19 2 21 49 1 50 Additions - - - - 2 2 Remeasurements - - - - - - Disposal - - - -20 - -20 Depreciation -5 -1 -6 -10 -1 -11 Carrying amount at December 31 14 1 15 19 2 21 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Parent Company Content 180/193 10 Investments in subsidiaries DKK million 2024 2023 Cost at January 1 12,318 6,771 Additions, capital contribution - 5,547 Other adjustments - - Cost at December 31 12,318 12,318 Value adjustment at January 1 4,269 3,684 Share of profit after tax in subsidiaries 1,712 670 Foreign currency translation adjustments 269 -279 Direct equity postings in subsidiaries -19 194 Value adjustments at December 31 6,231 4,269 Carrying amount at December 31 18,549 16,587 Group companies are listed on page 165-166. 11 Investments in associates DKK million 2024 2023 Aggregated financial information for associates is provided below: Total share of loss in associates for the year - -33 12 Deferred tax DKK million 2024 2023 Deferred tax, net Deferred tax at January 1, net -86 -34 Adjustment in respect of prior years 73 -7 Deferred tax for the year recognized in profit (loss) for the year -31 -45 Deferred tax at December 31, net -44 -86 Deferred tax, net relates to Intangible assets -228 -220 Other 184 134 Total -44 -86 13 Contingent assets and liabilities The parent company has not issued any guarantees on behalf of sub- sidiaries in 2024 (2023: DKK 0 million). The company is jointly taxed with all Danish subsidiaries. The company is jointly and severally liable with the other companies in the joint taxa- tion for Danish corporate taxes and withholding taxes on dividend, in- terests and royalties within the joint taxation. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Parent Company Content 181/193 14 Financial instruments Categories of financial assets and liabilities DKK million 2024 2023 Financial assets Other receivables 181 220 Amounts owed by subsidiaries 214 289 Financial assets at amortized cost 395 509 Derivative financial instruments included in Other receivables 146 119 Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss 146 119 Financial liabilities Issued bonds (bond-with-warrant units), non-current 8,199 2,689 Issued EMTN bonds, non-current 372 335 Bank loans and issued bonds, current 1,725 9,674 Lease liabilities 16 23 Trade payables 116 125 Amounts owed to subsidiaries 57 749 Financial liabilities at amortized cost 10,485 13,595 Derivative financial instruments included in Other payables 141 119 Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss 141 119 For a description of loans in GN Store Nord, as well as interest rate and foreign exchange risk on these, please refer to note 4.2 Financial risks in the consolidated financial statements. Contractual maturity analysis for financial liabilities DKK million Less than one year Between one and three years More than three years Total 2024 Issued bonds 26 38 895 959 Bank loans 1,862 6,039 1,850 9,751 Lease liabilities 9 10 - 19 Trade payables 116 - - 116 Amounts owed to subsidiaries 57 - - 57 Total non-derivative financial liabilities 2,070 6,087 2,745 10,902 Derivative financial liabilities 141 - - 141 Total financial liabilities 2,211 6,087 2,745 11,043 2023 Issued Bonds 7,053 37 892 7,982 Bank loans 2,548 449 2,029 5,026 Lease liabilities 8 15 3 26 Trade payables 125 - - 125 Amounts owed to subsidiaries 749 - - 749 Total non-derivative financial liabilities 10,483 501 2,924 13,908 Derivative financial liabilities 119 - - 119 Total financial liabilities 10,602 501 2,924 14,027 The maturity analysis is based on non-discounted cash flows. Economic hedges Fair value disclosures re. financial instruments at amortized cost Based on observable inputs (fair value hierarchy level 2), the fair value of EMTN bonds amounted to DKK 546 million (2023: DKK 4,726 mil- lion). For other financial assets and liabilities, the fair value is approxi- mately equal to the carrying amount. The foreign currency risk in GN Store Nord A/S mainly arises from translation of receivables, debt and cash balances related to EUR and USD, of which a large part of the USD risk is related to intercompany balances. The foreign currency risk is mitigated through non-desig- nated derivatives. At year end 2024 the FX derivatives had a fair value of DKK 5 million (2023: DKK 1 million), of which DKK 4.6 million (2023: DKK 5 million) are related to derivatives of USD vs EUR or DKK and DKK 0.2 million (2023: DKK -4 million) are related to derivatives of GBP vs DKK. The fair value of derivatives is categorized as level 2 (observa- ble inputs) in the fair value hierarchy. 2024 2023 DKK million Average rate (DKK) Contract amount, net* Fair value, as- sets Fair value, liabilities Average rate (DKK) Contract amount, net* Fair value, as- sets Fair value, liabilities USD / DKK 705 -3,453 114 -53 688 -2,588 35 -94 USD / EUR 704 -3,109 - -56 689 -2,767 65 - Other currency pairs -350 32 -31 -7,754 21 -25 Total 146 -140 121 -119 * Positive contract amounts indicate sale of currencies vs. DKK or EUR GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Parent Company Content 182/193 15 Share capital and capital structure For information regarding share capital, capital structure and treasury shares please refer to note 4.1 Share capital and capital structure to the consolidated financial statements. For information regarding financial risk management, please refer to note 4.2 Financial risks in the consolidated financial statements. 16 Related party transactions In addition to disclosures given in note 5.7 Related parties to the con- solidated financial statements, related parties for the parent company comprise Group enterprises and associates over which GN Store Nord A/S exercises control or significant influence. Group companies are listed on page 165-166. Trade with Group enter- prises comprised: DKK million 2024 2023 Sale of services to group enterprises 933 796 Lease income from group enterprises 20 31 Purchase of services from group enterprises -191 -839 Lease costs paid to group enterprises -30 -40 The parent company's balances with group enterprises at December 31, 2024 are disclosed in the balance sheet. Interest income and expenses with respect to Group enterprises are disclosed in note 5 Financial income and expenses. Further, balances with Group enter- prises comprise trade balances related to the purchase and sale of goods and services. Sale of services to Group enterprises consists of facility services, can- teen services, management fee and IT costs. Purchase of services from Group enterprises mainly consists of facility services and canteen ser- vices. Furthermore, the parent company has purchased development services from subsidiaries related to the exploring research projects. No transactions have been carried out with the Board of Directors, the Executive Management, senior employees, major shareholders or other related parties, apart from remuneration disclosed in notes 2.3 Staff costs and management remuneration and 5.2 Share-based incentive plans in the consolidated financial statements. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Financial Statements – Parent Company Content 183/193 17 Liabilities from financing activities 18 Accounting policies The financial statements of the parent company, GN Store Nord A/S have been prepared in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards as adopted by the EU and Danish disclosure requirements for annual re- ports of listed companies. The financial statements have been pre- pared in accordance with the historical cost convention, as modified by the revaluation of certain financial instruments (including derivative fi- nancial instruments) at fair value. The accounting policies for the financial statements of the parent com- pany have been changed in line with the changes to accounting policies described in note 1.1 in the consolidated financial statements. These changes have not had any material impact on recognition and meas- urement in the parent company. Apart from the above-mentioned changes the accounting policies for the financial statements of the par- ent company are unchanged from the last financial year and are the same as for the consolidated financial statements with the following additions: Supplementary accounting policies for the parent company Investments in subsidiaries Revenue in the parent company primarily relates to services rendered to GN Group companies during the year. Investments in subsidiaries are accounted for using the equity method whereby the investment is initially recognized at cost and adjusted thereafter for the post-acquisition change in the share of the subsidiar- ies net assets. The share of the subsidiaries profit or loss, less unreal- ized intra-Group profits, is included in the income statement of the par- ent company and the share of the subsidiaries other comprehensive in- come is included in other comprehensive income of the parent com- pany. Received dividends reduce the carrying amount of the invest- ments in subsidiaries. To the extent net profit in subsidiaries exceeds declared or proposed dividends from such companies, net revaluation of investments in sub- sidiaries is transferred to Net revaluation reserve under Equity accord- ing to the equity method. Management’s report for the Parent company The Parent Company reports corporate level activities and investments into subsidiaries. Revenue in 2024 grew to DKK 898 mil- lion (2023: DKK 738 million), primarily due to changes in the Group Functions. The Parent Company applies the equity method for recog- nizing share of profit and investments in subsidiaries and profit for the year and total equity developed in line with the Group’s overall devel- opment. In 2024, cash flow from operating activities was positively im- pacted by interests received in the total amount of DKK 219 million (2023: DKK 405 million). DKK million Bank loans, non-current Issued bonds*) Lease liabilities Bank loans and issued bonds, current Amounts owed to subsidiaries Total Liabilities at January 1 - 3,024 29 9,674 749 13,476 Cash flows - -1,406 -7 -1,068 - -2,481 Foreign exchange adjustments - - - - - - New leases - - - - - - Reclassified to current/non-current 6,931 - -6,931 - - Reclassified to working capital - - - - -749 -749 Non-cash interest expenses - - - - - Other non-cash adjustments - 22 -6 50 - 66 Liabilities at December 31, 2024 - 8,571 16 1,725 - 10,312 Liabilities at January 1 2,312 7,548 53 6,005 1,411 17,329 Cash flows -2,312 2,290 -8 -3,262 8 -3,284 Foreign exchange adjustments - 57 -4 - -670 -617 New leases and remeasurements - - -15 - - -15 Bonds reclassified to current - -6,931 - 6,931 - - Non-cash interest expenses - 60 - - - 60 Liabilities at December 31, 2023 - 3,024 26 9,674 749 13,473 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 184/193 Statements by the Executive Management and the Board of Directors 185 Independent Auditor’s Reports 186 Independent auditor’s limited assurance report on the Sustainability Statement 190 Statements GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 184/193 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 185/193 Today, the Executive Management and the Board of Directors have dis- cussed and approved the GN Store Nord Annual Report for the finan- cial year 1 January - 31 December 2024. The Consolidated Financial Statements and the Parent Company Fi- nancial Statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRS Ac- counting Standards as adopted by the EU and further requirements in the Danish Financial Statements Act. Management's report has been prepared in accordance with the Danish Financial Statements Act. In our opinion, the Consolidated Financial Statements and the Parent Company Financial Statements give a true and fair view of the financial position at 31 December 2024 of the Group and the Parent Company and of the results of the Group and Parent Company operations and cash flows for 2024. In our opinion, Management's report includes a fair review of the devel- opment in the operations and financial circumstances of the Group and the Parent Company, of the results for the year and of the financial po- sition of the Group and the Parent Company as well as a description of the most significant risks and elements of uncertainty, which the Group and the Parent Company are facing. Additionally, the sustainability statement, which is part of Manage- ment's report, has been prepared, in all material respects, in accord- ance with paragraph 99 a of the Danish Financial Statements Act. This includes compliance with the European Sustainability Reporting Stand- ards (ESRS) including that the process undertaken by Management to identify the reported information (the “Process”) is in accordance with the description set out in the section titled “Double materiality assessment”. Furthermore, disclosures within “EU Taxonomy Regula- tion disclosure” of the sustainability statement are, in all material re- spects, in accordance with Article 8 of EU Regulation 2020/852 (the “Taxonomy Regulation”). The year 2024 marks the initial implementation of paragraph 99 a of the Danish Financial Statements Act concerning compliance with ESRS. As such, more clear guidance and practice are anticipated in vari- ous areas, which are expected to be issued in the coming years. Fur- thermore, the sustainability statement includes forward-looking state- ments based on disclosed assumptions about events that may occur in the future and possible future actions by the Group. Actual outcomes are likely to be different since anticipated events frequently do not occur as expected. In our opinion, the annual report of GN Store Nord A/S for the financial year 1 January to 31 December 2024 with the file name GNStoreNord- 2024-12-31-en.zip is prepared, in all material respects, in compliance with the ESEF Regulation. We recommend that the Annual Report be adopted at the Annual Gen- eral Meeting. Statements by the Executive Management and the Board of Directors Ballerup, February 6, 2025 Executive Management Peter Karlstromer Group CEO Søren Jelert Group CFO Board of Directors Jukka Pekka Pertola Chair Klaus Holse Deputy Chair Hélène Barnekow Anette Weber Jørgen Bundgaard Hansen Kim Vejlby Hansen Leo Larsen Cathrin Inge Hansen Claus Holmbeck-Madsen GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 186/193 To the shareholders of GN Store Nord A/S Report on the audit of the Financial Statements Our opinion In our opinion, the Consolidated Financial Statements and the Parent Company Financial Statements give a true and fair view of the Group’s and the Parent Company’s financial position at 31 December 2024 and of the results of the Group’s and the Parent Company’s operations and cash flows for the financial year 1 January to 31 December 2024 in ac- cordance with IFRS Accounting Standards as adopted by the EU and further requirements in the Danish Financial Statements Act. Our opinion is consistent with our Auditor’s Long-form Report to the Audit Committee and the Board of Directors. What we have audited The Consolidated Financial Statements and Parent Company Financial Statements of GN Store Nord A/S for the financial year 1 January to 31 December 2024, pp 113-183 comprise income statement and state- ment of comprehensive income, balance sheet, statement of changes in equity, statement of cash flows and notes, including material ac- counting policy information for the Group as well as for the Parent Company. Collectively referred to as the "Financial Statements". Basis for opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (ISAs) and the additional requirements applicable in Denmark. Our responsibilities under those standards and requirements are fur- ther described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Fi- nancial Statements section of our report. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. Independence We are independent of the Group in accordance with the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants’ International Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (IESBA Code) and the additional ethical requirements applicable in Denmark. We have also fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements and the IESBA Code. To the best of our knowledge and belief, prohibited non-audit services referred to in Article 5(1) of Regulation (EU) No 537/2014 were not provided. Appointment We were first appointed auditors of GN Store Nord A/S on 21 March 2019 for the financial year 2019. We have been reappointed annually by shareholder resolution for a total period of uninterrupted engage- ment of six years including the financial year 2024. Independent Auditor’s Reports GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 187/193 Key audit matters Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judg- ment, were of most significance in our audit of the Financial State- ments for 2024. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the Financial Statements as a whole, and in forming our opin- ion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these mat- ters. Key audit matter How our audit addressed the key audit matter Capitalisation and valuation of development costs The Group capitalises development costs within the Enterprise, Hearing and Gaming & Con- sumer segment when certain criteria according to IFRS Accounting Standards are met. The criterias for recognition and measurement of development costs are subject to Man- agement’s estimates and judgments, which are uncertain by nature. Completed development projects are assessed for impairment indications during the year. For in -progress development projects impairment tests are performed at least yearly. The impairment tests are based on a strategy plan approved by Management and value -in-use calculations based on expected future cash flows. We focused on this area because the criterias for recognition and measurement of develop- ment projects are subject to Management estimates and judgments. Refer to no te 3.1 in the Financial Statements. We assessed whether the Group’s material accounting policies related to capitalisation and valuation of development costs are in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards. We updated our understanding of relevant controls, including Group controlling proce- dures, IT systems and business processes regarding development costs. For the controls, we assessed whether they were designed and implemented to effectively address the ri sk to material information. For selected controls which we planned to rely upon, we tested the operating effectiveness. We selected a sample of in -progress development projects and considered whether all cri- terias described in IFRS Accounting Standards were met as a basis for capitalisation. We performed substantive audit procedures to verify capitalised amounts. We evaluated and challenged Management’s assessment of impairment indicators of com- pleted development projects based on the commercial prospects of the projects. For in -progress development projects and completed projects where there are indications of impairment, we challenged the significant assumptions applied in the value -in-use calcu- lations. Our work was based on our understanding of the business cases and key assump- tions applied. We challenged whether the intend to finalise the projects remain and whether the projects are expected to generate future economic benefits exceeding the car- rying values. We assessed the completeness and accuracy of the disclosures of development projects and related impairment tests against the disclosure requirements in IAS 36 and IAS 38. GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 188/193 Statement on Management’s report Management is responsible for Management's report. Our opinion on the Financial Statements does not cover Management's report, and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. In connection with our audit of the Financial Statements, our responsi- bility is to read Management's report and, in doing so, consider whether Management's report is materially inconsistent with the Fi- nancial Statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or other- wise appears to be materially misstated. Moreover, we considered whether Management's report includes the disclosures required by the Danish Financial Statements Act. This does not include the requirements in paragraph 99 a related to the sustaina- bility statement covered by the separate auditor’s limited assurance re- port hereon. Based on the work we have performed, in our view, Management's re- port is in accordance with the Consolidated Financial Statements and the Parent Company Financial Statements and has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Danish Financial Statements Act, except for the requirements in paragraph 99 a related to the sus- tainability statement, cf. above. We did not identify any material mis- statement in Management's report. Management’s responsibilities for the Financial Statements Management is responsible for the preparation of consolidated finan- cial statements and parent company financial statements that give a true and fair view in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards as adopted by the EU and further requirements in the Danish Financial Statements Act, and for such internal control as Management deter- mines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or er- ror. In preparing the Financial Statements, Management is responsible for assessing the Group’s and the Parent Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless Man- agement either intends to liquidate the Group or the Parent Company or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so. Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Statements Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the Financial Statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that in- cludes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs and the additional requirements applicable in Denmark will always de- tect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the eco- nomic decisions of users taken on the basis of these Financial State- ments. As part of an audit in accordance with ISAs and the additional require- ments applicable in Denmark, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit. We also: • Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the Fi- nancial Statements, whether due to fraud or error, design and per- form audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement re- sulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrep- resentations, or the override of internal control. • Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the cir- cumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Group’s and the Parent Company’s inter- nal control. • Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by Management. • Conclude on the appropriateness of Management’s use of the go- ing concern basis of accounting and based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Group’s and the Parent Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the Financial Statements or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evi- dence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, fu- ture events or conditions may cause the Group or the Parent Com- pany to cease to continue as a going concern. • Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the Fi- nancial Statements, including the disclosures, and whether the Fi- nancial Statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that gives a true and fair view. • Plan and perform the group audit to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities or business units within the group as a basis for forming an opinion GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 189/193 on the Consolidated Financial Statements and the Parent Com- pany Financial Statements. We are responsible for the direction, supervision and review of the audit work performed for purposes of the group audit. We remain solely responsible for our audit opinion. We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in inter- nal control that we identify during our audit. We also provide those charged with governance with a statement that we have complied with relevant ethical requirements regarding inde- pendence, and to communicate with them all relationships and other matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence and, where applicable, actions taken to eliminate threats or safeguards applied. From the matters communicated with those charged with governance, we determine those matters that were of most significance in the audit of the Financial Statements of the current period and are therefore the key audit matters. We describe these matters in our auditor’s report unless law or regulation precludes public disclosure about the matter. Report on compliance with the ESEF Regulation As part of our audit of the Financial Statements we performed proce- dures to express an opinion on whether the annual report of GN Store Nord A/S for the financial year 1 January to 31 December 2024 with the filename GNStoreNord-2024-12-31-en.zip is prepared, in all mate- rial respects, in compliance with the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/815 on the European Single Electronic Format (ESEF Regu- lation) which includes requirements related to the preparation of the annual report in XHTML format and iXBRL tagging of the Consolidated Financial Statements including notes. Management is responsible for preparing an annual report that com- plies with the ESEF Regulation. This responsibility includes: • The preparing of the annual report in XHTML format; • The selection and application of appropriate iXBRL tags, including extensions to the ESEF taxonomy and the anchoring thereof to el- ements in the taxonomy, for all financial information required to be tagged using judgment where necessary; • Ensuring consistency between iXBRL tagged data and the Consoli- dated Financial Statements presented in human-readable format; and • For such internal control as Management determines necessary to enable the preparation of an annual report that is compliant with the ESEF Regulation. Our responsibility is to obtain reasonable assurance on whether the an- nual report is prepared, in all material respects, in compliance with the ESEF Regulation based on the evidence we have obtained, and to issue a report that includes our opinion. The nature, timing and extent of procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material departures from the requirements set out in the ESEF Regulation, whether due to fraud or error. The pro- cedures include: • Testing whether the annual report is prepared in XHTML format; • Obtaining an understanding of the company’s iXBRL tagging pro- cess and of internal control over the tagging process; • Evaluating the completeness of the iXBRL tagging of the Consoli- dated Financial Statements including notes; • Evaluating the appropriateness of the company’s use of iXBRL ele- ments selected from the ESEF taxonomy and the creation of ex- tension elements where no suitable element in the ESEF taxon- omy has been identified; • Evaluating the use of anchoring of extension elements to ele- ments in the ESEF taxonomy; and • Reconciling the iXBRL tagged data with the audited Consolidated Financial Statements. In our opinion, the annual report of GN Store Nord A/S for the financial year 1 January to 31 December 2024 with the file name GNStoreNord- 2024-12-31-en.zip is prepared, in all material respects, in compliance with the ESEF Regulation. Hellerup, 6 February 2025 PricewaterhouseCoopers Statsautoriseret Revisionspartnerselskab CVR no 3377 1231 Mads Melgaard State Authorised Public Accountant mne34354 Søren Ørjan Jensen State Authorised Public Accountant mne33226 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 190/193 To the stakeholders of GN Store Nord A/S Limited assurance conclusion We have conducted a limited assurance engagement on the sustaina- bility statement of GN Store Nord A/S (the “Group”) included in the Management’s report (the “Sustainability Statement”), page 40-104, for the financial year 1 January – 31 December 2024. Based on the procedures we have performed and the evidence we have obtained, nothing has come to our attention that causes us to believe that the Sustainability Statement is not prepared, in all material re- spects, in accordance with the Danish Financial Statements Act para- graph 99 a, including: • compliance with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), including that the process carried out by the management to identify the information reported in the Sustainability State- ment (the “Process”) is in accordance with the description set out in the section “Double materiality assessment”; and • compliance of the disclosures in section “EU Taxonomy Regulation disclosures” of the Sustainability Statement with Article 8 of EU Regulation 2020/852 (the “Taxonomy Regulation”). Basis for conclusion We conducted our limited assurance engagement in accordance with International Standard on Assurance Engagements (ISAE) 3000 (Re- vised), Assurance engagements other than audits or reviews of historical financial information (“ISAE 3000 (Revised)”) and the addi- tional requirements applicable in Denmark. The procedures in a limited assurance engagement vary in nature and timing from, and are less in extent than for, a reasonable assurance en- gagement. Consequently, the level of assurance obtained in a limited assurance engagement is substantially lower than the assurance that would have been obtained had a reasonable assurance engagement been performed. We believe that the evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appro- priate to provide a basis for our conclusion. Our responsibilities under this standard are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the assurance engagement section of our report. Our independence and quality management We are independent of the Group in accordance with the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants’ International Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (IESBA Code) and the additional ethical requirements applicable in Denmark. We have also fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements and the IESBA Code. Our firm applies International Standard on Quality Management 1, which requires the firm to design, implement and operate a system of quality management including policies or procedures regarding compli- ance with ethical requirements, professional standards and applicable legal and regulatory requirements. Management’s responsibilities for the Sustainability Statement Management is responsible for designing and implementing a process to identify the information reported in the Sustainability Statement in accordance with the ESRS and for disclosing this Process as included in section “Double materiality assessment” of the Sustainability State- ment. This responsibility includes: • understanding the context in which the Group’s activities and busi- ness relationships take place and developing an understanding of its affected stakeholders; • the identification of the actual and potential impacts (both nega- tive and positive) related to sustainability matters, as well as risks and opportunities that affect, or could reasonably be expected to affect, the Group’s financial position, financial performance, cash flows, access to finance or cost of capital over the short-, medium-, or long-term; • the assessment of the materiality of the identified impacts, risks and opportunities related to sustainability matters by selecting and applying appropriate thresholds; and • making assumptions that are reasonable in the circumstances. Management is further responsible for the preparation of the Sustaina- bility Statement, which includes the information identified by the Pro- cess, in accordance with the Danish Financial Statements Act para- graph 99 a, including: • compliance with the ESRS; Independent auditor’s limited assurance report on the Sustainability Statement GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 191/193 • preparing the disclosures as included in the section “EU Taxonomy Regulation disclosures” of the Sustainability Statement, in compli- ance with Article 8 of the Taxonomy Regulation; • designing, implementing and maintaining such internal control that management determines is necessary to enable the prepara- tion of the Sustainability Statement that is free from material mis- statement, whether due to fraud or error; and • the selection and application of appropriate sustainability report- ing methods and making assumptions and estimates that are rea- sonable in the circumstances. Inherent limitations in preparing the Sustainability Statement In reporting forward-looking information in accordance with ESRS, management is required to prepare the forward-looking information on the basis of disclosed assumptions about events that may occur in the future and possible future actions by the Group. Actual outcomes are likely to be different since anticipated events frequently do not oc- cur as expected. Auditor’s responsibilities for the assurance engagement Our responsibility is to plan and perform the assurance engagement to obtain limited assurance about whether the Sustainability Statement is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue a limited assurance report that includes our conclusion. Misstate- ments can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, indi- vidually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to in- fluence decisions of users taken on the basis of the Sustainability Statement as a whole. As part of a limited assurance engagement in accordance with ISAE 3000 (Revised) we exercise professional judgement and maintain pro- fessional scepticism throughout the engagement. Our responsibilities in respect of the Process include: • Obtaining an understanding of the Process, but not for the pur- pose of providing a conclusion on the effectiveness of the Process, including the outcome of the Process; • Considering whether the information identified addresses the ap- plicable disclosure requirements of the ESRS; and • Designing and performing procedures to evaluate whether the Process is consistent with the Group’s description of its Process, as disclosed in the section “Double materiality assessment”. Our other responsibilities in respect of the Sustainability Statement in- clude: • Identifying where material misstatements are likely to arise, whether due to fraud or error; and • Designing and performing procedures responsive to disclosures in the Sustainability Statement where material misstatements are likely to arise. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrep- resentations, or the override of internal control. Summary of the work performed A limited assurance engagement involves performing procedures to obtain evidence about the Sustainability Statement. The nature, timing and extent of procedures selected depend on professional judgement, including the identification of disclosures where material misstate- ments are likely to arise, whether due to fraud or error, in the Sustaina- bility Statement. In conducting our limited assurance engagement, with respect to the Process, we: • Obtained an understanding of the Process by performing inquiries to understand the sources of the information used by manage- ment; and reviewing the Group’s internal documentation of its Process; and • Evaluated whether the evidence obtained from our procedures about the Process implemented by the Group was consistent with the description of the Process set out in the “Double materiality assessment”. In conducting our limited assurance engagement, with respect to the Sustainability Statement, we: • Obtained an understanding of the Group’s reporting processes rel- evant to the preparation of its Sustainability Statement including the consolidation processes by obtaining an understanding of the Group’s control environment, processes and information systems relevant to the preparation of the Sustainability Statement but not evaluating the design of particular control activities, obtaining evidence about their implementation or testing their operating ef- fectiveness; • Evaluated whether the information identified by the Process is in- cluded in the Sustainability Statement; • Evaluated whether the structure and the presentation of the Sus- tainability Statement are in accordance with the ESRS; • Performed inquiries of relevant personnel and analytical proce- dures on selected information in the Sustainability Statement; GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 192/193 • Performed limited substantive assurance procedures on selected information in the Sustainability Statement; • Where applicable, compared disclosures in the Sustainability Statement with the corresponding disclosures in the financial statements and Management’s report; • Evaluated the methods, assumptions and data for developing esti- mates and forward-looking information; and • Obtained an understanding of the Group’s process to identify tax- onomy-eligible and taxonomy-aligned economic activities and the corresponding disclosures in the Sustainability Statement. Hellerup, 6 February 2025 PricewaterhouseCoopers Statsautoriseret Revisionspartnerselskab CVR no 3377 1231 Mads Melgaard State Authorised Public Accountant mne34354 Søren Ørjan Jensen State Authorised Public Accountant mne33226 GN Store Nord Annual Report 2024 Content 193/193 Forward-looking statements The forward-looking statements in this report reflect the management's current expectations of certain future events and financial results. Statements regard- ing the future are, naturally, subject to risks and uncertainties, which may result in considerable deviations from the outlook set forth. Furthermore, some of these expectations are based on assumptions regarding future events, which may prove incorrect. Changes to such expectation and assumptions will not be disclosed on an ongoing basis, unless required pursuant to general disclosure obligations to which GN is subject. Factors that may cause actual results to deviate materially from expectations include – but are not limited to – general economic developments and develop- ments in the financial markets as well as foreign exchange rates, technological developments, changes and amendments to legislation and regulations govern- ing GN’s markets, changes in the demand for GN's products, competition, fluc- tuations in sub-contractor supplies, and developments in ongoing litigation (in- cluding but not limited to class action and patent infringement litigation in the United States). For more information, please see the "Management's report" and "Risk manage- ment” sections in this Annual Report. This Annual Report should not be consid- ered an offer to sell securities in GN. GN Store Nord A/S Lautrupbjerg 7 2750 Ballerup Denmark +45 45 75 00 00 info@gn.com gn.com Co.reg. no 24257843 © 2025 GN Store Nord A/S. All rights reserved. Beltone, BlueParrott, Danavox, FalCom, Interton, Jabra, ReSound and SteelSeries are trademarks of the GN Group. All other trademarks and logos included herein are the property of their respective owners. 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