Quarterly Report • May 5, 2021
Quarterly Report
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| Amounts in NOK million (except EPS and percentage) | Q1 2021 | Q1 2020 | FY 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Financial | |||
| Net operating revenues | 979.0 | 993.6 | 3 660.9 |
| Employee benefit expenses | 732.7 | 715.9 | 2 660.1 |
| Other operating expenses | 99.7 | 110.0 | 402.2 |
| EBITDA | 146.6 | 167.7 | 598.7 |
| EBITDA margin | 15.0% | 16.9% | 16.4% |
| EBIT | 98.5 | 117.5 | 371.0 |
| EBIT margin | 10.1% | 11.8% | 10.1% |
| Adjusted EBIT 1 | 98.5 | 117.5 | 401.0 |
| Adjusted EBIT margin 1 | 10.1% | 11.8% | 11.0% |
| Reported profit for the period | 66.6 | 84.1 | 249.2 |
| Earnings per share (EPS) | 2.47 | 3.12 | 9.25 |
| Other opex ratio (ex. IFRS 16) | 14.6% | 15.3% | 15.6% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Billing ratio | 71.1% | 69.4% | 70.9% |
| Number of employees | 2 926 | 2 984 | 2 925 |
| Order intake | 1 381 | 1 306 | 4 684 |
| Order backlog | 3 580 | 3 099 | 3 327 |
1) Adjusted EBIT excluding one-off nextLEVEL restructuring cost of NOK 30.0 million in 2020.

"I am pleased to see that Multiconsult had a good start to 2021 – and we continue to deliver solid results. We see that our focus on core business, sales and client relationships, as well as project execution has a positive impact on our overall performance. The strong dedication and commitment from the organisation and all our employees also contribute strongly to the improvements. Going forward, we will continue to focus on our core business and employees, and on delivering innovative and sustainable solutions to our customers and partners."
Grethe Bergly CEO of Multiconsult ASA
Multiconsult's first quarter EBIT came in at NOK 98.5 million, equal to an EBIT margin of 10.1 per cent. The result is impacted positively by higher billing ratio, improved project execution and reduced operating expenses. There is an impact of four less working days compared to the same period last year, with an estimated negative effect of NOK 56.4 million on net operating revenues and EBIT. The nextLEVEL improvement programme is finalised with a committed annual effect of approximately NOK 174 million. The order intake was solid at NOK 1 381 million giving an order backlog of NOK 3 580 million.
Multiconsult group ("Multiconsult" or "the group") comprises Multiconsult ASA ("parent company" or "company") and all subsidiaries and associated companies. (Figures in brackets = same period prior year or relevant balance sheet date 2020).
Net operating revenues came in at NOK 979.0 million (993.6) a decrease of 1.5 per cent compared to the same period last year. Billing ratio increased to 71.1 per cent (69.4), an increase of 1.7 pp compared to the same quarter in 2020. The lower number of working days and net reduction in manning level of 58 employees y-o-y have a negative effect on net operating revenue when comparing to the same period last year.
Operating expenses consist mainly of employee benefit expenses and other operating expenses. Total operating expenses increased by 0.8 per cent to NOK 832.4 million (825.9). Employee benefit expenses increased by 2.3 per cent compared to the same quarter in 2020. The increase in employee benefit expenses is due to ordinary salary adjustment and higher activity level for the workforce, partly offset by reduced manning level. Other operating expenses decreased by 9.3 per cent to NOK 99.7 million (110.0), an effect from the nextLEVEL improvement programme together with reduced costs on general expenditures due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
EBITDA was NOK 146.6 million (167.7), a decrease of 12.6 per cent compared to the same period last year, reflecting an EBITDA margin of 15.0 per cent (16.9) in the period.
EBIT was NOK 98.5 million (117.5), reflecting an EBIT margin of 10.1 per cent (11.8) in the period. Compared to the first quarter 2020 the calendar effect has a negative impact of approximately NOK 56.4 million.
Net financial items were an expense of NOK 12.4 million (6.8).
Group tax rate was 23.3 per cent (23.3).
Reported profit for the period was NOK 66.6 million (84.1).
Calendar effect: In the first quarter of 2021 there are four less working days than in the first quarter 2020. This had an estimated negative impact of NOK 56.4 million on net operating revenues and EBIT for the group when comparing the two quarters.
Total assets amounted to NOK 2 783 million (2 718, Dec 2020), and total equity amounted to NOK 826.0 million (773.6, Dec 2020). The group held cash and cash equivalents of NOK 297.9 million (277.4, Dec 2020).
Net interest-bearing liabilities amounted to NOK 545.7 million (571.3, Dec 2020). Adjusted for IFRS 16 lease obligations, net interest-bearing debt is negative NOK 312.7 million (negative 293.3, Dec 2020).
Net cash flow from operating activities was positive NOK 78.8 million (48.0). Net cash flow from operating activities is affected by change in working capital.
Net cash flow used in investment activities was NOK 11.7 million this quarter (10.6). Ordinary asset replacement amounts to NOK 6.7 million, and NOK 6.0 million relates to the strategic investment in a joint venture with Argeo AS.
Net cash flow from financing activities amounted to negative NOK 42.8 million (negative 51.4) which is affected by instalments on lease liabilities.
The order backlog at the end of the first quarter 2021 remains solid at an all-time high NOK 3 580 million (3 099), an increase of 15.5 per cent compared to the end of first quarter last year. Business areas Buildings & Properties and Transportation holds the largest proportion of the order backlog. All business areas except Industry and Cities & Society have seen an increase in the order backlog. The size and timing of execution of the order backlog varies significantly between the business areas and locations. Order backlog does not reflect the total expected volume related to frame agreements and includes only calloffs that have been signed under these agreements.
Order intake during the quarter increased by 5.8 per cent compared to the first quarter 2020. Among significant sales or contracts awarded this quarter were:
There is an increase in use of frame agreements in the industry and a number of new frame agreements were awarded from Statens Vegvesen, Viken Fylkeskommune, Bane NOR, VEAS, Bærum kommune and a number of other public and private clients.
Multiconsult's profitability improvement programme nextLEVEL was introduced in November 2019 and was one of our key measures to improve performance and profitability. The profitability improvement programme has now been completed.
NextLEVEL had a target of NOK 150 million in annual profitability improvement to be committed over a period of 18 months and realised over the next 2-3 years. Multiconsult surpassed the NOK 150 million target towards the end of 2020. By the end of April 2021 committed annual effect were approximately NOK 174 million. Targets under the programme have been met both within Cost Out and Operations.
Cost Out constitute office & IT, travel & professional services and other. The effects come from revised contract terms, reduced procurement cost and a number of other cost
reduction measure that have a positive effect on other operating expenditure for the group. Committed annual effect on Cost Out is approximately NOK 94 million.
Operations constitute organisational adjustments, improved operational efficiency and reduced impairments. Operational improvements have been quantified, implemented and monitored throughout the period. Committed annual effect on Operations is approximately NOK 80 million.
No restructuring costs related to nextLEVEL are reported in this quarter. Reported one-off nextLEVEL restructuring costs related to the programme accumulates to NOK 34.0 million. There may be additional restructuring cost related to nextLEVEL later in 2021, but is not expected to exceed previously announced level.
Multiconsult's reporting segments are presented as five segments, Region Oslo, Region Norway, Energy, LINK arkitektur and International.
This segment offers services in all seven business areas and comprises the Oslo region, and Large Projects in Norway.
| Amounts in NOK million | Q1 2021 |
Q1 2020 |
FY 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Net operating revenues | 311.6 | 329.6 | 1 175.7 |
| EBIT | 40.5 | 57.7 | 186.1 |
| EBIT% | 13.0% | 17.5% | 15.8% |
| Order intake | 463.8 | 337.5 | 1 573 |
| Order backlog | 1 367 | 985.1 | 1 256 |
| Billing ratio | 73.0% | 72.9% | 73.4% |
| Number of employees | 770 | 796 | 769 |
Net operating revenues came in at NOK 311.6 million (329.6) a decrease of 5.5 per cent compared to the same period last year. Billing ratio increased to 73.0 per cent (72.9) and contributed positively while the billing rate was at the same level as the same period last year. A net reduction in manning level of 26 employees y-o-y have a negative effect on net operating revenue. The y-o-y decrease in net operating revenue and EBIT is also partially explained by calendar effect.
Total operating expenses came in 0.2 per cent lower than in the same period in 2020. Employee benefit expenses increased in line with ordinary salary adjustment. Other operating expenses decreased significantly, due to reduced costs on general expenditures, administrative staff and shared services compared to same period 2020.
Order intake in the first quarter increased by 37.4 per cent compared to same period in 2020. The growth is supported by an increase in the business areas Transportation, Industy and Oil & Gas, other business areas decreased.
Order backlog for the segment at the end of the first quarter is NOK 1 367 million. The order backlog increased by 38.8 per cent compared to the same period last year. More than 80 per cent of the total order backlog for the segment is held by the business areas Buildings & Properties, Transportation and Water & Environment. Order backlog increased by 8.9 per cent from fourth quarter 2020.
This segment offers services in all seven business areas and comprises all offices outside Oslo with presence in all larger cities and several other locations in Norway.
| Amounts in NOK million | Q1 2021 |
Q1 2020 |
FY 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Net operating revenues | 390.7 | 391.0 | 1 449.8 |
| EBIT | 45.7 | 42.9 | 184.0 |
| EBIT% | 11.7% | 11.0% | 12.7% |
| Order intake | 450.5 | 561.4 | 1 557 |
| Order backlog | 634.1 | 732.7 | 597.6 |
| Billing ratio | 69.3% | 66.6% | 69.9% |
| Number of employees | 1 035 | 1 065 | 1 033 |
Net operating revenues came in at NOK 390.7 million (391.0) a decrease of 0.1 per cent compared to the same period last year. Higher billing ratio of 2.7 pp and higher average billing rate in the period contributed positively. A net reduction in manning level of 30 employees y-o-y have a negative effect on net operating revenue. The calendar effect had a negative impact on revenues and EBIT when comparing with the Q1 2020.
Total operating expenses came in 1.2 per cent lower than in the same period in 2020. Employee benefit expenses increased due to ordinary salary adjustment, partly offset by reduced manning level. Other operating expenses decreased significantly, due to reduced costs on general expenditures, administrative staff and shared services compared to same period in 2020.
Order intake in the quarter came in at NOK 450.5 million, a decrease of 19.7 per cent to compared to first quarter last year. Order intake increased in the business area Industry and Oil & Gas. All other business areas have lower order intake compared to the same period last year.
Order backlog for the segment at the end of the quarter was at NOK 634.1 million. The order backlog decreased by 13.5 per cent compared to the same period in 2020. All business areas except Industry and Oil & Gas decreased their order backlog compared to the same period last year. Order backlog increased by 6.1 per cent from fourth quarter 2020.
The segment offers national and international services in the business area Renewable Energy with some activity in Water & Environment and include the subsidiary Multiconsult UK.
| Q1 2021 |
Q1 2020 |
FY 2020 |
|---|---|---|
| 61.5 | 69.5 | 248.8 |
| 0.5 | 3.5 | 6.8 |
| 0.8% | 5.0% | 2.7% |
| 97.9 | 88.7 | 334.2 |
| 322.4 | 263.8 | 295.1 |
| 63.3% | 59.4% | 61.3% |
| 181 | 199 | 186 |
Net operating revenues came in at NOK 61.5 million (69.5) a decrease of 11.5 per cent compared to the same period last year. Billing ratio contributed positively at 63.3 per cent (59.4), 3.9 pp higher than same quarter last year, driven by higher activity level for the segment. Lower average billing rate and a net reduction in manning level of 18 employees y-o-y have a negative effect on net operating revenue. The reduction in the number of employees was made to align the capacity with demand and adjust for future competence requirement. The calendar effect also had a negative impact on revenues and EBIT when comparing with the Q1 2020.
Total operating expenses came in 7.5 per cent lower than in the same period in 2020. Employee benefit expenses decreased due to a reduction in the number of employees. Furlough reliefs and temporary working hours reduction related to Covid-19 pandemic for the workforce in UK contribute to a decrease in employee benefit expenses. Other operating expenses decreased significantly, due to reduced costs on general expenditures, administrative staff and shared services compared to the same period in 2020.
Order intake in the first quarter came in at NOK 97.9 million an increase of 10.4 per cent compared to the same quarter last year.
Order backlog was at NOK 322.4 million at the end of the quarter. The order backlog increased by 22.2 per cent compared to the same period last year. The business segment has experienced some start-up issues in international projects due to local political- and Covid-19 constraints. Order backlog increased by 9.3 per cent from fourth quarter 2020.
This segment comprises LINK arkitektur with its 15 offices in Norway, Sweden and Denmark.
| Q1 2021 |
Q1 2020 |
FY 2020 |
|---|---|---|
| 152.6 | 151.0 | 561.6 |
| 5.5 | 6.7 | 25.7 |
| 3.6% | 4.5% | 4.6% |
| 171.8 | 153.5 | 745.2 |
| 621.7 | 576.9 | 637.7 |
| 74.9% | 73.4% | 73.6% |
| 482 | 497 | 487 |
Net operating revenues came in at NOK 152.6 million (151.0) an increase of 1.1 per cent compared to the same period last year. Higher productivity level and a higher billing ratio of 1.6 pp, up to 74.9 per cent (73.4) in the quarter contributed to growth in net operating revenues. A lower average billing rate for the segment in total, but with regional differences, have a net negative effect on operating revenue compared to the same period last year. The calendar effect also had a negative impact on revenues and EBIT when comparing with the Q1 2020.
Total operating expenses came in 2.9 per cent higher than in the same period in 2020. Employee benefit expenses increased in line with ordinary salary adjustment and manning level. Other operating expenses was at a slightly higher level compared to the same period 2020.
The financial performance in LINK arkitektur in Norway is at a good level, Sweden has seen an improvement, while the business in Denmark is still loss making.
Order intake in the first quarter was NOK 171.8 million, an increase of 11.9 per cent compared to the same period last year. All three business areas where Link arkitektur offers services have increased.
Order backlog was NOK 621.7 million at the end of the quarter. The order backlog increased by 7.8 per cent compared to the same period last year and decreased by 2.5 per cent from fourth quarter 2020.
This segment comprises the subsidiaries Multiconsult Polska and Iterio AB in Sweden.
| Q1 2021 |
Q1 2020 |
FY 2020 |
|---|---|---|
| 61.5 | 61.2 | 242.5 |
| 5.1 | 6.5 | 24.8 |
| 8.3% | 10.6% | 10.2% |
| 196.8 | 164.5 | 474.6 |
| 689.1 | 566.9 | 586.8 |
| 76.2% | 78.5% | 74.9% |
| 330 | 308 | 321 |
Net operating revenues came in at NOK 61.5 million (61.2) an increase of 0.4 per cent compared to the same period last year. Average billing rates for the segment are higher than in the same period last year and contributes to the growth in net operating revenues. Increased order backlog resulted in a net recruitment. A lower billing ratio of 2.3 pp in the segment had a negative effect on net operating revenues compared to the same period last year.
Total operating expenses came in 2.5 per cent higher than in the same period in 2020. Employee benefit expenses increased in line with the increase in manning level and ordinary salary adjustment. Other operating expenses decreased significantly, due to reduced costs on general expenditures compared to the same period last year.
Order intake in the first quarter increased by 19.7 per cent compared to same quarter last year.
Order backlog was at NOK 689.1 million at the end of the quarter. The order backlog increased by 21.6 per cent compared to the same period last year. Order backlog increased by 17.4 per cent from fourth quarter 2020.
As of 31 March 2021, the group had 2 926 (2 984) employees, a net reduction in manning level of 58 employees' y-o-y. The employee turnover ratio for the group for the period March 2020 to March 2021 was 10.6 per cent (12.6).
Heikki Holmås was appointed as Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO). The appointment of Holmås will contribute to realising Multiconsult's strategic ambitions and goals within sustainability.
On 19 April, Multiconsult held the annual general meeting. The general meeting elected Sverre Hurum as new member of the board and Tore Sjursen was elected as new deputy board member. The annual general meeting approved all the proposed items on the agenda.
Gunnar Vatnar, Karine Gjersø and Torben Halland Wederwang have been elected new board members (employee representatives) to Multiconsult ASA for a term of two years.
These forward-looking statements reflect current views about future events and are, by their nature, subject to significant risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances in the future.
The market outlook for Multiconsult's services remains generally good across most business areas, and potential opportunities in the pipeline are also at a good level. This includes opportunities with sustainable and "green" projects in most business areas. The revised National Transportation Plan in Norway indicates a steady portfolio of infrastructure projects in the medium and long term.
In the shorter term the Covid-19 pandemic is still creating business uncertainty. The continued support and funding of public sector
projects, as well as the timing of such projects, is also of key importance to our business, and potential delays or cancellations will impact our business negatively.
Political uncertainty, macroeconomic events and competition from foreign players comprise some key risk factors, but also opportunities to Multiconsult's market outlook.
The order backlog combined with a solid market position, strong competence and leading customer solutions provides Multiconsult with a good foundation to handle the challenges of the current uncertainties facing the economy and our industry.
The risk of disagreements and legal disputes related to possible cost of delays and project errors is always present in the engineering consultancy business. Multiconsult has developed internal procedures and competences to reduce risk exposure for legal disputes. Multiconsult has normal and relevant insurance policies and routines for protection of normal and most potential consequences of such matters. Further details regarding the insurance coverage are provided in note 20 to the consolidated financial statements, and under Risk and Risk Management in the 2020 Annual Report. Multiconsult has experienced an increase in the number of and size of potential legal disputes, which potentially may, in adverse circumstances, have negative financial impact.
Multiconsult is exposed to a number of risk factors; Covid-19 risk, legal liability, credit risk, currency risk, interest rate risk, liquidity risk, accounting estimates risk and expertise risk. The Risk and Risk Management section in the 2020 Annual Report contains detailed description and mitigating actions. Multiconsult has not identified significant additional risk exposures beyond the ones described in the 2020 Annual Report, including the covid-19 risk. The extraordinary risk factor due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, is continually evaluated and Multiconsult has not identified significant additional risk factors related to Covid-19 beyond those described in the 2020 Annual Report.
Net operating revenues: Operating revenues less sub consultants, direct external project costs and disbursements.
EBITDA: EBIT before depreciation, amortisation and impairment.
EBIT: Earnings before net financial items, results from associates and joint ventures and income tax.
EBIT margin (%): EBIT as a percentage of net operating revenues.
Other opex ratio (APM): Other operating expenses adjusted for IFRS 16 effects as a percentage of net operating revenue.
Billing ratio (%): Total billable hours in a period as a percentage of total hours reported in the period (including administrative staff) and employer-paid absence. Billing ratio per segment includes allocated administrative staff.
Employees: Number of employees comprise all staff on payroll including staff on temporarily leave (paid and unpaid), excluding temporary personnel.
Order intake: Expected operating revenues on new contracts and confirmed changes to existing contracts. Only group external contracts are included.
Order backlog: Expected remaining operating revenues on new and existing contracts. Only group external contracts are included. Call-offs on frame agreements are included in the order backlog when signed.
Net interest-bearing debt: Non-current and current interest-bearing liabilities deducted cash and cash equivalents.
This report includes forward-looking statements, which are based on our current expectations and projections about future events. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this notice, including statements regarding our future financial position, risks and uncertainties related to our business, strategy, capital expenditures, projected costs and our plans and objectives for future operations, including our plans for future costs savings and synergies may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Words such as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "may," "assume," "plan," "intend," "will," "should," "estimate," "risk"
and similar expressions or the negatives of these expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. In addition, any forwardlooking statements are made only as of the date of this notice, and we do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update any statements set forth in this report.
Unaudited for the period ended 31 March 2021
| Amounts in NOK thousand, except EPS | Q1 2021 | Q1 2020 | FY 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating revenues | 1 090 706 | 1 147 827 | 4 186 161 |
| Expenses for sub consultants and disbursements | 111 687 | 154 184 | 525 225 |
| Net operating revenues | 979 019 | 993 644 | 3 660 936 |
| Employee benefit expenses | 732 696 | 715 943 | 2 660 077 |
| Other operating expenses | 99 703 | 109 952 | 402 174 |
| Operating expenses excl. depreciation and amortisation | 832 399 | 825 895 | 3 062 250 |
| Operating profit before depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) | 146 621 | 167 749 | 598 686 |
| Depreciation and amortisation | 48 122 | 50 285 | 197 639 |
| Impairment | - | - | 30 000 |
| Operating profit (EBIT) | 98 498 | 117 464 | 371 047 |
| Share of profit from associated companies and joint ventures | 719 | (983) | (2 269) |
| Financial income and expenses | |||
| Financial income | 3 217 | 11 068 | 22 692 |
| Financial expenses | 15 589 | 17 822 | 62 119 |
| Net financial items | (12 372) | (6 755) | (39 427) |
| Profit before tax | 86 845 | 109 727 | 329 350 |
| Income tax expense | 20 267 | 25 607 | 80 141 |
| Profit for the period | 66 578 | 84 120 | 249 209 |
| Attributable to: | |||
| Owners of Multiconsult ASA | 66 578 | 84 120 | 249 209 |
| Earnings per share | |||
| Basic and diluted | 2.47 | 3.12 | 9.25 |
| Amounts in NOK thousand | Q1 2021 | Q1 2020 | FY 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Profit for the period | 66 578 | 84 120 | 249 209 |
| Other comprehensive income | |||
| Remeasurement of defined benefit obligations | - | - | 228 |
| Income taxes | - | - | (50) |
| Total items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss | - | - | 178 |
| Currency translation differences | (14 192) | 21 357 | 12 640 |
| Total items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss | (14 192) | 21 357 | 12 640 |
| Total other comprehensive income for the period | (14 192) | 21 357 | 12 817 |
| Total comprehensive income for the period | 52 386 | 105 477 | 262 026 |
| Attributable to: | |||
| Owners of Multiconsult ASA | 52 386 | 105 477 | 262 026 |
| Amounts in NOK thousand | 31 March 2021 | 31 March 2020 | 31 December 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASSETS | |||
| Non-current assets | |||
| Deferred tax assets | 34 507 | 38 806 | 34 023 |
| Intangible assets | 19 581 | 24 355 | 20 913 |
| Goodwill | 449 703 | 459 033 | 454 692 |
| Property, plant and equipment | 104 148 | 109 581 | 103 640 |
| Right-of-use assets | 798 510 | 915 436 | 806 081 |
| Investments in associated companies and joint ventures | 10 803 | 12 060 | 10 227 |
| Assets for reimbursement of provisions | 19 400 | 21 150 | 23 172 |
| Non-current receivables and shares | 19 842 | 18 556 | 20 230 |
| Total non-current assets | 1 456 494 | 1 598 976 | 1 472 977 |
| Current assets | |||
| Trade receivables | 570 615 | 673 144 | 626 726 |
| Work in progress | 320 922 | 379 279 | 255 894 |
| Other receivables and prepaid costs | 137 376 | 113 568 | 85 154 |
| Cash and cash equivalents | 297 855 | 62 910 | 277 435 |
| Total current assets | 1 326 767 | 1 228 901 | 1 245 209 |
| Total assets | 2 783 261 | 2 827 878 | 2 718 185 |
| EQUITY AND LIABILITIES | |||
| Shareholders' equity | |||
| Total paid in equity | 85 988 | 91 241 | 85 988 |
| Other equity | 740 013 | 595 678 | 687 627 |
| Total shareholders' equity | 826 001 | 686 922 | 773 615 |
| Non-current liabilities | |||
| Pension obligations | 6 474 | 6 546 | 6 474 |
| Deferred tax | 12 068 | 16 116 | 11 512 |
| Provisions | 26 550 | 27 550 | 31 222 |
| Non-current interest-bearing liabilities | - | 172 000 | - |
| Non-current lease liabilities | 725 126 | 802 437 | 733 035 |
| Total non-current liabilities | 770 217 | 1 024 649 | 782 243 |
| Current liabilities | |||
| Trade payables | 109 079 | 158 606 | 106 436 |
| Prepaid revenues | 146 328 | 129 182 | 155 656 |
| Current tax liabilities | 93 971 | 38 131 | 79 053 |
| Public duties payable | 319 432 | 312 837 | 354 779 |
| Current interest-bearing liabilities | - | - | - |
| Current lease liabilities | 133 277 | 133 038 | 131 499 |
| Other current liabilities | 384 958 | 344 512 | 334 905 |
| Total current liabilities | 1 187 043 | 1 116 306 | 1 162 328 |
| Total liabilities | 1 957 260 | 2 140 956 | 1 944 571 |
| Total equity and liabilities | 2 783 261 | 2 827 878 | 2 718 185 |
| Amounts in NOK thousand | Share capital |
Own shares |
Share premium |
Total paid-in capital |
Retained earnings |
Employee share purchase programme |
Pension | Currency | Total equity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31 December 2019 | 13 486 | (1) | 77 758 | 91 241 | 710 035 | (24 565) | (203 183) | 7 882 | 581 413 |
| Dividend | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Treasury shares | - | - | - | - | - | 34 | - | - | 34 |
| Employee share purchase | |||||||||
| programme | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Comprehensive income | - | - | - | - | 84 120 | - | - | 21 357 | 105 477 |
| 31 March 2020 | 13 486 | (1) | 77 758 | 91 241 794 155 | (24 531) | (203 183) | 29 239 | 686 922 | |
| 31 December 2019 | 13 486 | (1) | 77 758 | 91 241 | 710 035 | (24 565) | (203 183) | 7 882 | 581 413 |
| Dividend | - | - | - | - | (53 626) | - | - | - | (53 626) |
| Treasury shares | - | (5 255) | - | (5 255) | - | (3 232) | - | - | (8 487) |
| Employee share purchase | |||||||||
| programme | - | - | - | - | - | (7 712) | - | - | (7 712) |
| Comprehensive income | - | - | - | - 249 209 | - | 178 | 12 640 | 262 026 | |
| 31 December 2020 | 13 486 | (5 256) | 77 758 | 85 988 905 619 | (35 509) | (203 005) | 20 522 | 773 615 | |
| 31 December 2020 | 13 486 | (5 256) | 77 758 | 85 988 905 619 | (35 509) | (203 005) | 20 522 | 773 615 | |
| Dividend | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Treasury shares | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Employee share purchase programme |
- | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Comprehensive income | - | - | - | - | 66 578 | - | - | (14 192) | 52 386 |
| 31 March 2021 | 13 486 | (5 256) | 77 758 | 85 988 972 197 | (35 509) | (203 005) | 6 330 | 826 001 |
| Amounts in NOK thousand | Q1 2021 | Q1 2020 | FY 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cash flow from operating activities | |||
| Profit before tax | 86 845 | 109 727 | 329 350 |
| Interest lease liability | 8 339 | 9 022 | 34 667 |
| Interest expense interest-bearing liability | - | 2 515 | 5 851 |
| Income taxes paid | (7 486) | (2 656) | (12 769) |
| Depreciation, amortisation and impairment | 12 154 | 13 354 | 51 945 |
| Depreciation right-of-use asset | 35 968 | 36 931 | 145 694 |
| Impairment right-of-use asset | - | - | 30 000 |
| Results from associated companies and joint ventures | (719) | 983 | 2 269 |
| Other non-cash profit and loss items | 77 | - | - |
| Sub total operating activities | 135 179 | 169 875 | 587 007 |
| Trade payables | 2 643 | (2 057) | (54 227) |
| Trade receivables | 56 111 | (34 668) | 11 750 |
| Work in progress | (65 028) | (70 245) | 53 140 |
| Other | (50 126) | (14 905) | 70 026 |
| Total changes in working capital | (56 400) | (121 875) | 80 690 |
| Net cash flow from operating activities | 78 779 | 48 000 | 667 697 |
| Cash flows used in investment activities | |||
| Net purchase and sale of fixed assets and financial non-current assets | (6 660) | (9 876) | (25 187) |
| Proceeds/payments related to joint ventures and jointly controlled entities | (6 000) | - | - |
| Change in non-current financial assets, restricted funds | 957 | (673) | (2 649) |
| Net cash flow used in investment activities | (11 703) | (10 549) | (27 836) |
| Cash flow from financing activities | |||
| Proceeds on interest-bearing liabilities | - | 172 000 | 172 000 |
| Instalments on interest-bearing liabilities | - | (178 400) | (350 400) |
| Paid interest on interest-bearing liability | - | (2 515) | (5 851) |
| Instalments on lease liabilities | (34 443) | (33 453) | (134 070) |
| Paid interest on lease liability | (8 339) | (9 022) | (34 667) |
| Paid dividends | - | - | (53 626) |
| Sale treasury shares | - | 6 400 | 21 919 |
| Purchase treasury shares | - | (6 366) | (52 805) |
| Net cash flow from financing activities | (42 782) | (51 357) | (437 499) |
| Foreign currency effects on cash and cash equivalents | (3 874) | 3 257 | 1 516 |
| Net increase/decrease in cash and cash equivalents | 20 420 | (10 649) | 203 877 |
| Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period | 277 435 | 73 558 | 73 558 |
| Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period | 297 855 | 62 910 | 277 435 |
Multiconsult ASA (the company) is a Norwegian public limited liability company listed on Oslo Børs. The company and its subsidiaries (together the Multiconsult group/the group) are
The financial statements are presented in NOK, rounded to the nearest thousand, unless otherwise stated. As a result of rounding adjustments, the figures in one or more rows or columns included in the financial statements and notes may not add up to the total of that row or column.
These interim condensed consolidated financial statements for the first quarter 2021 have been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 as approved by the EU. They have not been audited. They do
The group prepares its consolidated annual financial statements in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the EU (International Financial Reporting Standards - IFRS). References to IFRS in
Note 4: Estimates, judgments and assumptions
The preparation of interim condensed consolidated financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expense. Actual results may differ from these estimates. In preparing these interim condensed consolidated financial statements, significant judgements made by management in applying the group's accounting policies and the key sources of estimation uncertainty were the same as those applied to the annual consolidated financial statements for 2020 note 2.
Cash-generating units are reviewed for impairment when indicators exist. The estimated recoverable amounts are affected among the leading suppliers of consultancy and design services in Norway and the Nordic region. The group has subsidiaries outside the Nordic region in Poland, UK and Singapore.
not include all of the information required for full annual financial statements of the group and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements for 2020. The accounting policies applied are consistent with those applied and described in the consolidated annual financial statements for 2020, which are available upon request from the company's registered office at Nedre Skøyen vei 2, 0276 Oslo and at www.multiconsult.no. These interim condensed consolidated financial statements for the first quarter 2021 were approved by the board of directors and the CEO on 04 May 2021.
these financial statements refer to IFRS as approved by the EU. The accounting policies adopted are consistent with those of the previous financial year, with the exemptions presented below.
by assumptions in connection with the estimation of future cash flows, as well as discount rate for the estimation of the present value of the cash flows. An assessment of impairment indicators has been made on 31 March 2021 and the conclusion was that there were no impairment indicators and thereby a full test is not performed.
The group performed full impairment tests on 31 December 2020 which did not result in any impairment for goodwill, property, plant and equipment or intangible assets related to any of the cash generating units.
Refer to section Segments for more information on the segments. The group has three geographical reporting segments as well as a segment for Energy and LINK arkitektur.
| Q1 2021 Amounts in NOK thousand |
Region Oslo |
Region Norway |
Energy | LINK arkitektur |
Inter national |
Not allocated |
Elimi nations |
Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| External revenues | 335 973 | 403 575 | 68 320 | 182 887 | 93 801 | 6 151 | - 1 090 706 | |
| Internal revenues | 16 155 | 10 510 | 2 277 | 4 904 | 748 | 2 883 | (37 477) | - |
| Total operating revenues | 352 127 | 414 085 | 70 596 | 187 791 | 94 549 | 9 034 | (37 477) 1 090 706 | |
| Net operating revenues | 311 601 | 390 721 | 61 500 | 152 622 | 61 456 | 3 818 | (2 699) | 979 019 |
| Operating expenses | 266 977 | 322 586 | 60 668 | 141 768 | 52 362 | (9 263) | (2 699) | 832 399 |
| EBITDA | 44 624 | 68 134 | 833 | 10 854 | 9 094 | 13 081 | - | 146 621 |
| Depreciation, amortisation, impairment | 4 168 | 22 467 | 314 | 5 378 | 4 019 | 11 844 | (69) | 48 122 |
| EBIT | 40 455 | 45 667 | 519 | 5 476 | 5 075 | 1 237 | 69 | 98 498 |
| Associates and joint ventures | - | - | 719 | - | - | - | - | 719 |
| Number of employees | 770 | 1 035 | 181 | 482 | 330 | 128 | - | 2 926 |
| Q1 2020 Amounts in NOK thousand |
Region Oslo |
Region Norway |
Energy | LINK arkitektur |
Inter national |
Not allocated |
Elimi nations |
Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| External revenues | 374 303 | 401 271 | 84 270 | 187 958 | 94 533 | 5 709 | (217) 1 147 827 | |
| Internal revenues | 4 569 | 8 234 | 3 343 | 8 839 | 646 | 739 | (26 370) | - |
| Total operating revenues | 378 871 | 409 505 | 87 613 | 196 797 | 95 179 | 6 448 | (26 587) 1 147 827 | |
| Net operating revenues | 329 576 | 391 045 | 69 531 | 150 958 | 61 212 | (5 774) | (2 905) | 993 644 |
| Operating expenses | 267 403 | 326 534 | 65 621 | 137 774 | 51 103 | (19 126) | (3 413) | 825 895 |
| EBITDA | 62 174 | 64 510 | 3 910 | 13 184 | 10 110 | 13 352 | 508 | 167 749 |
| Depreciation, amortisation, impairment | 4 477 | 21 620 | 445 | 6 435 | 3 645 | 13 173 | 489 | 50 285 |
| EBIT | 57 697 | 42 890 | 3 465 | 6 749 | 6 465 | 179 | 19 | 117 464 |
| Associates and joint ventures | - | - | (983) | - | - | - | - | (983) |
| Number of employees | 796 | 1 065 | 199 | 497 | 308 | 119 | - | 2 984 |
| FY 2020 Amounts in NOK thousand |
Region Oslo |
Region Norway |
Energy | LINK arkitektur |
Inter national |
Not allocated |
Elimi nations |
Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| External revenues | 1 293 843 1 506 295 | 292 059 | 695 317 379 392 | 19 256 | - | 4 186 161 | ||
| Internal revenues | 49 534 | 33 803 | 9 891 | 32 408 | 5 975 | 6 513 (138 125) | - | |
| Total operating revenues | 1 343 377 1 540 098 | 301 950 | 727 725 385 367 | 25 770 (138 125) 4 186 161 | ||||
| Net operating revenues | 1 175 700 1 449 805 | 248 770 | 561 595 242 541 | (10 276) | (7 200) 3 660 936 | |||
| Operating expenses | 972 416 | 1 178 641 | 240 333 | 509 870 202 361 | (33 614) | (7 756) 3 062 250 | ||
| EBITDA | 203 284 | 271 164 | 8 438 | 51 725 | 40 181 | 23 338 | 556 | 598 686 |
| Depreciation, amortisation, impairment | 17 166 | 87 197 | 1 645 | 25 988 | 15 407 | 81 615 | (1 379) | 227 639 |
| EBIT | 186 118 | 183 968 | 6 793 | 25 737 | 24 774 | (58 277) | 1 935 | 371 047 |
| Associates and joint ventures | - | - | (2 269) | - | - | - | - | (2 269) |
| Number of employees | 769 | 1 033 | 186 | 487 | 321 | 129 | - | 2 925 |
The group's net operating revenues are affected by the number of working days within each reporting period while employee expenses are recognised for full calendar days. The number of working days in a month is affected by public holidays and vacations. The timing of public holidays (e.g. Easter) during
quarters and whether they fall on weekends or weekdays impacts revenues, earnings, cash flows and working capital balances. Generally, the company's employees are granted leave during Easter and Christmas. The summer holidays primarily impact the month of July and the third quarter.
There were no significant events and transactions in the period.
See note 23 to the consolidated financial statements for 2020 for a description of related parties and related parties' transactions in 2020.
The company has 40 741 treasury shares on 31 March 2021. For a description of the share purchase programme for all the employees and the performance-based bonus scheme for the group management see note 9 in the consolidated financial statements for 2020.
For the periods presented there are no dilutive effects on profits or number of shares. Basic and diluted earnings per share are therefore the same.
| Q1 2021 | Q1 2020 | FY 2020 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Profit for the period (in NOK thousand) | 66 578 | 84 120 | 249 209 |
| Average no of shares (excl own shares) | 26 929 653 | 26 931 354 | 26 930 713 |
| Earnings per share | 2.47 | 3.12 | 9.25 |
The group's financial instruments are interest bearing debt, accounts receivables and other receivables, cash and cash equivalents and accounts payables. It is assumed that the
book value is a good approximation of fair value for the group's financial instruments.
| Amounts in NOK thousand | 31 March 2021 | 31 March 2020 | 31 December 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multiconsult ASA | - | 172 000 | - |
| Total | - | 172 000 | - |
Multiconsult ASA has an overdraft loan facility of NOK 320.0 million, which is part of a cash pool. The cash pool is a multicurrency and multi-account system including the legal entities Multiconsult Norge AS, LINK arkitektur AS, LINK arkitektur AB, LINK arkitektur A/S, Iterio AB, Multiconsult UK Limited and Johs Holt AS, where Multiconsult ASA is the owner of the cash
pool's top account and the debtor of the facility. In addition, Multiconsult ASA holds a 3-year revolving credit facility of NOK 200 million, plus accordion until March 2023. Multiconsult ASA is in compliance with its financial covenants on 31 March 2021.
Fair value of derivatives (interest rate swap) was recorded with an unrealised loss of NOK 1.3 million on 31 March 2021 (loss of NOK 1.6 million on 31 December 2020).
Multiconsult uses alternative performance measures for periodic and annual financial reporting in order to provide a better understanding of the group's underlying financial performance.
Reported figures adjusted for restructuring cost and other items affecting comparability. There was a calendar effect of four less working days which had a negative impact on Net operating
revenue and EBIT of approximately NOK 56.4 million compared to 2020.
For full year 2020 EBIT ex. restructuring cost is calculated by excluding one-off nextLEVEL restructuring cost of NOK 30.0 million in Q3 and FY 2020. There were no material restructuring cost or other items affecting comparability in Q1 2021.
| Amounts in NOK million (except percentage) | Q1 2021 | Q1 2020 | FY 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Net operating revenues | 979.0 | 993.6 | 3 660.9 |
| Calendar effect | 56.4 | - | - |
| Adjusted net operating revenues | 1 035.4 | 993.6 | 3 660.9 |
| Operating expenses excluding depreciation and amortisation | 832.4 | 825.9 | 3 062.3 |
| Adjusting items | - | - | - |
| Adjusted operating expenses excluding depreciation and amortisation | 832.4 | 825.9 | 3 062.3 |
| Adjusted EBITDA including calendar effect | 203.0 | 167.7 | 598.7 |
| Depreciation and amortisation | 48.1 | 50.3 | 197.6 |
| Impairment | - | - | 30.0 |
| Adjusting items | - | - | (30.0) |
| Adjusted depreciation, amortisation and impairment | 48.1 | 50.3 | 197.6 |
| Adjusted EBIT | 98.5 | 117.5 | 401.0 |
| Adjusted EBIT including calendar effect | 154.9 | 117.5 | 401.0 |
| Adjusted EBITDA margin including calendar effect | 19.6% | 16.9% | 16.4% |
| Adjusted EBIT margin | 10.1% | 11.8% | 11.0% |
| Adjusted EBIT margin including calendar effect | 15.0% | 11.8% | 11.0% |
| Amounts in NOK million (except percentage) | Q1 2021 | Q1 2020 | FY 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Other operating expenses | 99.7 | 110.0 | 402.2 |
| Other operating expenses IFRS 16 effect | 42.8 | 42.5 | 168.8 |
| Other operating expenses excluding IFRS 16 | 142.5 | 152.4 | 570.9 |
| Net operating revenue | 979.0 | 993.6 | 3 660.9 |
| Other opex ratio | 14.6% | 15.3% | 15.6% |
| Amounts in NOK million (except percentage) | 31 March 2021 |
31 March 2020 |
31 December 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total shareholders' equity | 826.0 | 686.9 | 773.6 |
| Total assets | 2 783.3 | 2 827.9 | 2 718.2 |
| Equity ratio | 29.7% | 24.3% | 28.5% |
| Equity (excluding IFRS 16) | 885.9 | 707.0 | 832.1 |
| Total assets (excluding IFRS 16) | 1 984.8 | 1 912.4 | 1 912.1 |
| Equity ratio (excluding IFRS 16) | 44.6% | 37.0% | 43.5% |
| Amounts in NOK million (except percentage) | 31 March 2021 |
31 March 2020 |
31 December 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cash and cash equivalents, excluding restricted cash | 297.9 | 62.2 | 277.4 |
| Cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash | (0.0) | 0.7 | (0.0) |
| Non-current financial assets, restricted funds | 14.9 | 13.9 | 15.8 |
| Interest-bearing liabilities | 858.4 | 1 107.5 | 864.5 |
| Net interest-bearing liabilities including IFRS 16 lease liabilities | 545.7 | 1 030.7 | 571.3 |
| Non-current and current IFRS 16 lease liabilities | 858.4 | 935.5 | 864.5 |
| Net interest-bearing liabilities excluding IFRS 16 lease liabilities | (312.7) | 95.2 | (293.3) |
Visiting address: Nedre Skøyen vei 2 0276 Oslo
Postal address: P O Box 265 Skøyen NO-0213 Oslo
T: (+47) 21 58 50 00 E: [email protected]
Investor relations: E: [email protected]
www.multiconsult.no
Org no 910 253 158
Front page: The Hurtigruten Museum Photo: Kolbjørn Hoeseth Larssen
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