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Randstad N.V. Interim / Quarterly Report 2019

Oct 22, 2019

3880_iss_2019-10-22_78380dfc-480b-4167-ad74-775208dc81ce.pdf

Interim / Quarterly Report

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contents

Q3 2019: sound margin performance and excellent cash conversion.

financial performance

performance

9 performance by geography

other information

interim financial statements

Q3 2019: sound margin performance and excellent cash conversion.

Q3 2019 organic growth
-2.5%
Q3 2019 underlying EBITA
€ 298m
Q3 2019 EBITA margin
5.0%
topline in Europe
stabilizing, US slightly
easing, both impacted by
macro uncertainty; robust
growthinRestoftheworld.
gross margin 20.1%, up
30bp YoY; continued
management focus on
pricing, supported by
digital tools.
Q3 2019 EBITA margin
down 10bp YoY to 5.0%;
selective investments in
growth areas continue.
ongoing market share
gains in several countries,
fueled by digital strategy.
Q3 FCF more than
doubling YoY to
€ 468m
September organic sales
growth in line with Q3;
volumes in early October
indicate a continuation of
the trend.

"Our strong gross margin and balanced cost management were able to oset slightly negative organic revenue growth in Q3 2019, while generating record high quarterly free cash flow," says CEO Jacques van den Broek. "We continue to gain market share in several countries, in part driven by the successful progression of our digital strategy across the world. We experienced ongoing weakness in industrial-related sectors, while still identifying ample growth opportunities globally. This means that we continue to balance selective investments for the longer term, while managing more challenging markets. Meanwhile, our free cash flow more than doubled year-on-year in Q3 2019. This underpins the countercyclical nature of our working capital requirements, and hence the resilience of our free cash flow generation through the cycle."

"Finally, I'm very happy with the proposal to nominate René Steenvoorden as Chief Digital Oicer to our Executive Board. This appointment will further strengthen the new setup of our executive team, in which countries,regions, clients and the digital transformation are now all directly represented. With this team, I'm convinced we'll be able to further accelerate the execution of our Tech & Touch strategy."

financial performance.

Note: all numbers are presented based on IFRS 16, including the restated comparatives for 2018

core data

in millions of €, unless otherwise indicated - underlying1 Q3
2019
restated Q3
2018
yoy
change
% org.
Revenue 6,006 6,006 0% (2)%
Gross profit 1,204 1,191 1% (2)%
Operating expenses 906 886 2% 1%
EBITA, underlying2 298 305 (2)% (4)%
Integration costs and one-offs (62) (16)
EBITA 236 289 (18)%
Amortization and impairment of intangible assets3 (33) (29)
Operating profit 203 260
Net finance (costs) / income (14) (15)
Share of profit of associates 2 1
Income before taxes 191 246 (22)%
Taxes on income (51) (56)
Net income 140 190 (26)%
Adj. net income for holders of ordinary shares4 207 220 (6)%
Free cash flow 468 220 113%
Net debt 1,595 2,074 (23)%
Leverage ratio (net debt/12-month EBITDA)5 1.1
Leverage ratio (net debt/12-month EBITDA) excluding IFRS 166 0.8 1.2
DSO (Days Sales Outstanding), moving average 53.7 54.0
Margins (in % of revenue)
Gross margin 20.1% 19.8%
Operating expenses margin 15.1% 14.8%
EBITA margin, underlying 5.0% 5.1%
Share data
Basic earnings per ordinary share (in €) 0.74 1.03 (28)%
Diluted earnings per ordinary share, underlying (in €)4 1.12 1.20 (7)%

1 Comparative numbers 2018 restated for eects IFRS 16.

2 EBITA adjusted for integration costs and one-os.

3 Amortization and impairment of acquisition-related intangible assets and goodwill.

4 Before amortization and impairment of acquisition-related intangible assets and goodwill, integration costs and one-os. See table 'Earnings per share' on page 23.

5 2018 leverage ratio including IFRS 16 not presented as 12 month rolling would include not restated 2017 numbers.

6 2019 leverage ratio excluding IFRS 16, based on best estimates.

Note: all numbers are presented based on IFRS 16, including the restated comparatives for 2018

revenue

Organic revenue per working day declined by 2.5% in Q3 resulting in revenue of € 6,006 million (Q2 2019: down 1.7 %). Reported revenue was stable YoY as working days and FX had a positive eect of 1.4% and 0.8% respectively. M&A contributed 0.2%.

In North America, revenue per working day decreased 1% (Q2 2019: up 1%). Growth in the US was down 1% (Q2 2019: up 1%), while Canada was up 3% YoY (Q2 2019: up 1%). In Europe, revenue per working day declined by 4% (Q2 2019: down 4%). Revenue in France was down 1% (Q2 2019: down 2%), while the Netherlands decreased 5% (Q2 2019: down 3%). Germany declined by 14% (Q2 2019: down 15%), while sales growth in Belgium was down 4% (Q2 2019: down 4%). Italy was down 2% (Q2 2019: flat), and revenue in Iberia was down 1% (Q2 2019: up 2%). In the 'Rest of the world' region, revenue increased 7% (Q2 2019: up 10%); Japan increased by 8% (Q2 2019: up 9%), while Australia & New Zealand declined by 1% (Q2 2019: up 2%).

Perm fees declined by 1% (Q2 2019: up 2%), with Europe down 4% (Q2 2019: flat) and North America up 4% (Q2 2019: up 6%). In the 'Rest of the world' region, perm fees declined by 4% (Q2 2019: up 2%). Perm fees made up 10.4% of gross profit.

gross profit

In Q3 2019, gross profit amounted to € 1,204 million. Organic growth was down 1.9% (Q2 2019: down 1.0%). Currency eects had a positive impact on gross profit of € 15 million compared to Q3 2018.

Gross margin was 20.1%, 30bp above Q3 2018 (as shown in the graph above). Temporary staing had a 30bp positive eect on gross margin (Q2 2019: up 10bp), primarily reflecting positive price/mix eects. Permanent placements and HRS/other (including 10bp positive FX eect) had no impact on gross margin.

operating expenses

On an organic basis, operating expenses decreased by € 11 million sequentially to € 906 million. This reflects agile cost management, while still investing in future growth opportunities. Compared to last year, operating expenses were up 1% organically (Q2 2019: flat), while there was a € 12 million negative FX impact.

sequential OPEX development Q2 -> Q3 in € M

Personnel expenses were down 2% sequentially. Average headcount (in FTE) amounted to 38,250 for the quarter, stable compared to Q2 2019 and down 2% organically YoY. Productivity (measured as gross profit per FTE) was flat YoY. We operated a network of 4,856 outlets (Q2 2019: 4,807).

Operating expenses in Q3 2019 were adjusted for a total of € 62 million one-os, primarily related to restructuring costs in Monster and a one-time settlement related to the transfer of a Dutch pension plan. Last year's cost base was adjusted for a total of € 16 million one-o costs.

EBITA

Underlying EBITA decreased organically by 4% to € 298 million. Currency eects had a € 3 million positive impact YoY. EBITA margin reached 5.0%, 10bp below Q3 2018. We achieved an organic recovery ratio of 19% over the last four quarters.

net finance (costs)/income

In Q3 2019, net finance costs were € 14 million, versus € 15 million net finance costs in Q3 2018. Interest expenses on our net debt position were € 3 million (Q3 2018: € 4 million), and interest expenses related to lease liabilities were € 4 million (Q3 2018: € 5 million). Foreign currency and other eects had a negative impact of € 7 million (Q3 2018: negative € 6 million).

tax

The eective tax rate before amortization and impairment of acquisition-related intangibles and goodwill, integration costs and one-os amounted to 26.7% in the first nine months (9M 2018: 23.3%) and is based on the estimated eective tax rate for the whole year 2019. For FY 2019, we expect an eective tax rate before amortization and impairment of acquisition-related intangibles and goodwill, integration costs and one-os of between 26% and 28%.

net income, earnings per share

In Q3 2019, adjusted net income was down 6% to € 207 million. Diluted underlying EPS amounted to € 1.12 (Q3 2018: € 1.20). The average number of diluted ordinary shares outstanding remained almost stable compared to Q3 2018 (183.9 million versus 183.6 million).

invested capital

in millions of €, unless otherwise
indicated
sep 30
2019
jun 30
2019
mar 31
2019
restated
dec 31 2018
restated
sep 30 2018
restated
jun 30 2018
Goodwill and acquisition-related
intangible assets
3,247 3,226 3,270 3,280 3,386 3,429
Operating working capital (OWC)1 1,105 1,352 1,145 1,009 1,123 1,149
Net tax assets2 585 572 616 574 487 496
All other assets/(liabilities)3 1,001 1,030 595 1,224 1,293 1,128
Invested capital 5,938 6,180 5,626 6,087 6,289 6,202
Financed by
Total equity 4,343 4,154 3,986 4,447 4,215 4,033
Net debt 961 1,394 994 985 1,419 1,507
Lease liabilities 634 632 646 655 655 662
Net debt incl. lease liabilities 1,595 2,026 1,640 1,640 2,074 2,169
Invested capital 5,938 6,180 5,626 6,087 6,289 6,202
Ratios
DSO (Days Sales Outstanding), moving
average
53.7 53.9 53.9 53.9 54.0 54.0
OWC as % of revenue over last 12 months 4.6% 5.7% 4.8% 4.2% 4.7% 4.9%
Leverage ratio (net debt/12-month
EBITDA)4
1.1 1.5 1.2 1.2
Return on invested capital5 15.5% 15.0% 14.6% 13.6%

1 Operating working capital: Trade and other receivables minus the current part of financial assets (including net investments in subleases), deferred receipts from disposed Group companies and interest receivable minus trade and other payables excluding interest payable.

2 Net tax assets: Deferred income tax assets and income tax receivables less deferred income tax liabilities and income tax liabilities.

3 All other assets/(liabilities), mainly containing property, plant & equipment, right of use assets, software plus financial assets (including net investments in subleases) and associates, less provisions and employee benefit obligations and other liabilities. As at June 30, 2019 and 2018, as well as at March 31, 2019, and 2018, dividends payable are also included (June 30: € 203 million and € 126 million respectively; March 31: € 632 million and € 518 million respectively). As at September 30, 2019 dividends payable are also included (€ 203 million).

4 2018 leverage ratio and return on invested capital including IFRS 16 is not presented as 12 month rolling would include not restated 2017 numbers for September 30 and June 30, 2018.

5 Return on invested capital: underlying EBITA (last 12 months) less income tax paid (last 12 months) as percentage of invested capital.

Return on invested capital (ROIC) amounted to 15.5%, showing a gradual increase over the last quarters. Our primary focus on organic growth should further lift the Group's ROIC going forward.

The moving average of Days Sales Outstanding (DSO) came slightly down YoY to 53.7 (Q3 2018: 54.0).

Included in 'all other assets/(liabilities)' is the total CICE subsidy receivable amounting to € 491 million, including a current portion of € 105 million.

At the end of Q3 2019, net debt including lease liabilities was € 1,595 million, compared to € 2,074 million at the end of Q3 2018. A further analysis of the cash flow is provided in the next section.

cash flow summary

in millions of € Q3 2019 restated
Q3 2018
change
EBITA 236 289 (18)%
Depreciation, amortization and impairment of property, plant, equipment, right of use
assets, and software
91 72
EBITDA 327 361 (9)%
Operating working capital 259 21
Provisions and employee benefit obligations 23 (4)
All other items 6 (20)
Income taxes (57) (59)
Net cash flow from operating activities 558 299 87%
Net capital expenditures (34) (22)
Repayments of lease liabilities (56) (57)
Free cash flow 468 220 113%
Net (acquisitions)/disposals (17) -
Dividends from associates - -
Issue of ordinary shares - -
Purchase of own ordinary shares - -
Dividend on ordinary and preference shares - (126)
Net finance costs (4) (8)
Translation and other effects (16) 9
Net decrease/(increase) of net debt 431 95

In the quarter, free cash flow amounted to € 468 million, up € 248 million versus Q3 2018 (€ 220 million). Main driver for the increase in free cash flow YoY was the significant operating working capital inflow, primarily reflecting our slowing topline growth, solid DSO management, and the favorable timing of receivables.

Additionally, the change in the French subsidy system is leading to an instant cash inflow instead of a receivable related to CICE (the latter halted as of 2019).

performance.

performance by geography

split by geography

North America Belgium & Luxembourg Rest of the world

France Italy Global Businesses

Netherlands Iberia Germany

Other European countries

revenue in millions of € Q3 2019 Q3 2018 organic ∆%1 9M 2019 9M 2018 organic ∆%1 North America 1,113 1,057 (1)% 3,247 3,045 1% France 941 934 (1)% 2,779 2,806 (1)% Netherlands 834 862 (5)% 2,515 2,559 (2)% Germany 532 610 (14)% 1,577 1,817 (13)% Belgium & Luxembourg 428 440 (4)% 1,205 1,238 (3)% Italy 403 403 (2)% 1,221 1,222 0% Iberia 381 380 (1)% 1,102 1,106 0% Other European countries 548 547 (1)% 1,627 1,645 (1)% Rest of the world 535 491 7% 1,543 1,437 9% Global businesses 291 282 (1)% 865 836 0% Revenue 6,006 6,006 (2)% 17,681 17,711 (1)%

1 Organic change is measured excluding the impact of currencies, acquisitions, disposals, and reclassifications. Forrevenue, the organic change has been adjusted forthe number of working days.

EBITA in millions of €, underlying Q3
2019
EBITA
margin1
restated
Q3 2018
EBITA
margin1
organic
∆%2
9M
2019
EBITA
margin1
restated
9M 2018
EBITA
margin1
organic
∆%2
North America 69 6.2% 68 6.4% (3)% 186 5.7% 166 5.4% 6%
France 59 6.2% 50 5.4% 15% 165 5.9% 152 5.4% 8%
Netherlands 47 5.6% 51 5.9% (8)% 139 5.5% 145 5.7% (4)%
Germany 21 3.9% 34 5.5% (38)% 47 3.0% 81 4.5% (42)%
Belgium & Luxembourg 27 6.2% 27 6.1% (1)% 72 6.0% 80 6.5% (10)%
Italy 24 5.9% 24 5.9% 0% 76 6.2% 74 6.0% 3%
Iberia 22 5.7% 22 5.6% 3% 60 5.4% 59 5.3% 2%
Other European countries 20 3.8% 20 3.7% 2% 47 2.9% 49 3.0% (3)%
Rest of the world 24 4.5% 23 4.6% 5% 72 4.7% 62 4.3% 16%
Global businesses 2 0.9% 3 1.5% (38)% (8) (0.9)% (2) (0.1)% n.a.
Corporate (17) (17) (54) (51)
EBITA before integration costs and one-offs3 298 5.0% 305 5.1% (4)% 802 4.5% 815 4.6% (3)%
Integration costs and one-offs (62) (16) (79) (43)
EBITA 236 289 723 772

1 EBITA in % of total revenue per segment.

2 Organic change is measured excluding the impact of currencies, acquisitions, disposals, and reclassifications. Forrevenue, the organic change has been adjusted forthe number of working days.

3 Operating profit before amortization and impairment of acquisition-related intangible assets and goodwill, integration costs and one-os.

north america

In North America, revenue growth was down 1% (Q2 2019: up 1%). Perm fees were up 4% (Q2 2019: up 6%). In Q3 2019, revenue of our combined US businesses was down 1% (Q2 2019: up 1%). US Staing/Inhouse Services declined by 4% (Q2 2019: flat). US Professionals revenue was up 2% (Q2 2019: up 2%). In Canada, revenue was up 3% (Q2 2019: up 1%). EBITA margin for the region came in at 6.2%, compared to 6.4% last year.

france

In France, revenue was down 1% (Q2 2019: down 2%), but ahead of market. Perm fees were up 4% compared to last year (Q2 2019: up 7%). Staing/Inhouse Services revenue declined 4% (Q2 2019: down 5%). Our Professionals business was up 9% (Q2 2019: up 11%), driven by Ausy and healthcare. EBITA margin was 6.2% compared to 5.4% last year.

netherlands

In the Netherlands, revenue was down 5% YoY (Q2 2019: down 3%), impacted by lower activity in the automotive sector. Overall perm fees were down 18% (Q2 2019: up 2%). Our Staing and Inhouse Services businesses was down 6% (Q2 2019: down 4%), while our Professionals business was up 3% (Q2 2019: up 5%). EBITA margin in the Netherlands was 5.6%, compared to 5.9% last year.

germany

In Germany, revenue per working day was down 14% YoY (Q2 2019: down 15%), still negatively impacted by regulation changes and challenging macroeconomic conditions. Perm fees were down 17% compared to last year (Q2 2019: down 11%). Our combined Staing/Inhouse Services business was down 17% (Q2 2019: down 19%), while Professionals was down 6% (Q2 2019: down 4%). EBITA margin in Germany was 3.9%, compared to 5.5% last year.

belgium & luxembourg

In Belgium & Luxembourg, revenue was down 4% (Q2 2019: down 4%). Perm fees were down 23% compared to last year (Q2 2019: down 21%). Our Staing/Inhouse Services business was down 5% (Q2 2019: down 5%). Our EBITA margin was 6.2%, compared to 6.1% last year.

italy

Revenue per working day in Italy was down 2% compared to the prior year (Q2 2019: flat), impacted by subdued macroeconomic trends. Overall perm fees were up 21% (Q2 2019: up 11%). EBITA margin was 5.9%, stable compared to last year.

iberia

In Iberia, revenue per working day was down 1% YoY (Q2 2019: up 2%). Perm fees were up 5% compared to last year (Q2 2019: up 2%). Staing/Inhouse Services combined was down 1% (Q2 2019: up 1%). Spain was up 1% (Q2 2019: up 3%), while our focus on permanent placements (up 6%) continues to pay o. In Portugal, revenue was down 8% (Q2 2019: down 3%). Overall EBITA margin was 5.7% in Q3 2019, compared to 5.6% last year.

other european countries

Across 'Other European countries', revenue per working day was down 1% (Q2 2019: down 1%). In the UK, revenue was down 2% (Q2 2019: flat), while in the Nordics, revenue was down 7% on an organic basis (Q2 2019: down 7%). Revenue in our Swiss business was stable YoY (Q2 2019: up 1%). Overall EBITA margin for the 'Other European countries' region was 3.8% compared to 3.7% last year.

rest of the world

Overall revenue in the 'Rest of the world' region grew by 7% organically (Q2 2019: up 10%). In Japan, revenue grew 8% (Q2 2019: up 9%). Revenue in Australia/New Zealand was down 1% (Q2 2019: up 2%), while revenue in China grew by 5% YoY (Q2 2019: up 9%). Our business in India was up 19% (Q2 2019: up 19%), while in Latin America1 revenue grew 21% (Q2 2019: up 28%), primarily driven by Brazil and Mexico. Overall EBITA margin in this region was 4.5%, compared to 4.6% last year.

global businesses

Overall organic revenue growth per working day was down 1% (Q2 2019: down 2%). Randstad Sourceright revenue increased by 6% (Q2 2019: up 4%), while Monster revenue was down by 15% (Q2 2019: down 16%). Overall EBITA margin came in at 0.9% compared to 1.5% last year.

performance by revenue category

revenue in millions of € Q3 2019 Q3 2018 organic ∆%1 9M 2019 9M 2018 organic ∆%1
Staffing 3,077 3,160 (5)% 9,026 9,294 (3)%
Inhouse Services 1,337 1,330 (2)% 3,958 3,939 0%
Professionals 1,301 1,234 2% 3,832 3,642 3%
Global Businesses 291 282 (1)% 865 836 0%
Revenue 6,006 6,006 (2)% 17,681 17,711 (1)%

1 Organic change is measured excluding the impact of currencies, acquisitions, disposals, and reclassifications. Forrevenue, the organic change has been adjusted forthe number of working days.

1 Latin America organic revenue growth not adjusted for hyperinflation accounting in Argentina

other information.

outlook

Revenue decreased by 2.5% in Q3 2019. In September 2019, revenue declined at a similar pace. The development of volumes in early October indicate a continuation of the Q3 2019 growth trend.

Q4 2019 gross margin is expected to be slightly lower sequentially.

For Q4 2019, we expect broadly stable operating expenses sequentially.

There will be an adverse 0.2 working day impact in Q4 2019.

other items

As previously announced, we intend to oset the dilutive eect from our performance share plans for senior management through share buybacks. The next allocation of shares will take place in February 2020. Based on current performance, we will commence a buyback program to purchase up to 540,000 shares in Randstad N.V. ("Randstad"), up to a maximum principal amount of € 50 million, in the period between October 23, 2019 and February 10, 2020 (inclusive). As the current plan runs untilthe end ofthe year,the number of shares to be allocated underthe performance share plans could still increase, as outlined in our remuneration policy in the annual report. Should we be required to allocate more than 540,000 shares, we intend to neutralize the impact of the potential share dilution in 2020, after February 11th (when we issue our FY 2019 results).

The share repurchase program will be carried out under the mandate given by the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on March 26, 2019. Within the limits set at that meeting, the maximum price to be paid for shares will be 110% of the average closing price of the last five preceding trading days on the NYSE Euronext Amsterdam stock exchange. Any purchases of shares will be carried out on NYSE Euronext Amsterdam and in accordance with certain pre-set parameters in accordance with Article 5(1) of Regulation EU No 596/2014.

Randstad has mandated HSBC Bank plc to undertake the program (between October 23, 2019 and February 10, 2020 (inclusive)). HSBC Bank plc' will make its trading decisions with regard to the number of shares to be purchased and the timing of the purchases independently of Randstad, and any shares so purchased will be on-sold by HSBC to Randstad. HSBC Bank plc's instruction to purchase the shares is irrevocable.

Randstad will provide weekly updates on the progress of the program on its corporate website in the investor relations section and to the AFM. Once the maximum number of shares has been repurchased, we will immediately disclose the finalization of the program.

working days

Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
2019 62.7 61.8 65.0 63.2
2018 63.5 62.1 64.1 63.4
2017 64.0 61.7 63.8 62.3

financial calendar

Publication of fourth quarter and annual results 2019 February 11, 2020
Annual General Meeting of Shareholders March 24, 2020
Publication of first quarter results 2020 April 22, 2020
Publication of second quarter results 2020 July 21, 2020

analyst and press conference call

Today (October 22, 2019), at 09.00 AM CEST, Randstad N.V. will be hosting an analyst conference call. The dial-in numbers are:

  • International: +44 20 3003 2666

  • Netherlands: +31 20 794 8426

To gain access to the conference please tap or state the password 'Randstad'

You can listen to the call through a real-time audio webcast. You can access the webcast and presentation at https:// www.ir.randstad.com/results-and-reports/quarterly-results. A replay of the presentation and the Q&A will be available on our website by the end of the day.

Watch also our CEO's video on this quarter's news.

For more information please contact:

David Tailleur - Director Investor Relations [email protected] or (mobile) +31 (0)6 12 46 21 33

Steven Vriesendorp - Investor Relations Officer [email protected] or (mobile) +31 (0)6 26 92 85 29

Diederik Heinink - Media Relations Manager a.i. [email protected] or (mobile) +31 (0)6 13 22 51 36

disclaimer

Certain statements in this document concern prognoses about the future financial condition, risks, investment plans, and the results of operations of Randstad N.V. and its operating companies, as well as certain plans and objectives. Obviously, such prognoses involve risks and a degree of uncertainty, since they concern future events and depend on circumstances that will apply then. Many factors may contribute to the actual results and developments diering from the prognoses made in this document. These factors include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions, a shortage on the job market, changes in the demand for personnel (including flexible personnel), achievement of cost savings, changes in the business mix, changes in legislation (particularly in relation to employment, staing and tax laws), the role of industry regulators, future currency and interest fluctuations, our ability to identify relevant risks and mitigate their impact, the availability of credit on financially acceptable terms, the successful completion of company acquisitions and their subsequent integration, successful disposals of companies, and the rate of technological developments. These prognoses therefore apply only on the date on which this document was compiled. The quarterly results as presented in this press release are unaudited.

randstad profile

Randstad is the global leader in the HR services industry. We support people and organizations in realizing their true potential by combining the power of today's technology with our passion for people. We call it Human Forward. In 2018, we helped more than 2.5 million candidates find a meaningful job with our almost 250,000 clients. Furthermore, we trained over 300,000 people. Randstad is active in 38 markets around the world and has top-three positions in almost half of these. In 2018, Randstad had on average 38,820 corporate employees and generated revenue of € 23.8 billion. Randstad was founded in 1960 and is headquartered in Diemen, the Netherlands. Randstad N.V. is listed on the NYSE Euronext (symbol: RAND.AS). For more information, see https://www.randstad.com/.

actuals

consolidated income statement

in millions of €, unless otherwise indicated Q3 2019 restated
Q3 2018
9M 2019 restated
9M 2018
Revenue 6,006 6,006 17,681 17,711
Cost of services 4,803 4,815 14,157 14,215
Gross profit 1,203 1,191 3,524 3,496
Selling expenses 640 628 1,908 1,897
General and administrative expenses 327 274 893 827
Operating expenses 967 902 2,801 2,724
Amortization and impairment of acquisition-related intangible assets
and goodwill
33 29 94 92
Total operating expenses 1,000 931 2,895 2,816
Operating profit 203 260 629 680
Net finance (costs) / income (14) (15) (33) (23)
Share of profit of associates 2 1 4 1
Income before taxes 191 246 600 658
Taxes on income (51) (56) (161) (147)
Net income 140 190 439 511
Net income attributable to:
Holders of ordinary shares Randstad N.V. 137 187 430 502
Holders of preference shares Randstad N.V. 3 3 9 9
Equity holders 140 190 439 511
Earnings per share attributable to the holders of ordinary shares of
Randstad N.V. (in € per share):
Basic earnings per share 0.74 1.03 2.35 2.74
Diluted earnings per share 0.74 1.02 2.34 2.74
Diluted earnings per share before amortization and impairment of
acquisition-related intangible assets and goodwill, integration costs
and one-offs
1.12 1.20 3.03 3.27

information by geographical area and revenue category

revenue by geographical area
in millions of € Q3 2019 Q3 2018 9M 2019 9M 2018
North America 1,113 1,057 3,247 3,045
France 941 934 2,779 2,806
Netherlands 836 863 2,519 2,562
Germany 533 611 1,578 1,818
Belgium & Luxembourg 429 440 1,208 1,239
Italy 403 403 1,221 1,222
Iberia 381 380 1,103 1,106
Other European countries 549 548 1,632 1,649
Rest of the world 536 491 1,545 1,437
Global Businesses 293 285 871 844
Elimination of intersegment revenue (8) (6) (22) (17)
Revenue 6,006 6,006 17,681 17,711

EBITA by geographical area

in millions of € Q3 2019 restated
Q3 2018
9M 2019 restated
9M 2018
North America 69 65 186 164
France 56 49 160 149
Netherlands 31 52 123 138
Germany 19 34 41 81
Belgium & Luxembourg 26 26 71 78
Italy 24 24 75 74
Iberia 22 22 60 59
Other European countries 20 20 45 49
Rest of the world 23 23 71 61
Global Businesses (34) (9) (52) (30)
Corporate (20) (17) (57) (51)
EBITA1 236 289 723 772

1 Operating profit before amortization and impairment of acquisition-related intangible assets and goodwill

revenue by revenue category

in millions of € Q3 2019 Q3 2018 9M 2019 9M 2018
Staffing 3,083 3,163 9,042 9,303
Inhouse 1,337 1,330 3,958 3,939
Professionals 1,301 1,234 3,832 3,642
Global businesses 293 285 871 844
Elimination of intersegment revenue (8) (6) (22) (17)
Revenue 6,006 6,006 17,681 17,711

consolidated balance sheet

in millions of € september 30, 2019 restated
december 31, 2018
restated
september 30, 2018
assets
Property, plant and equipment 157 159 154
Right of use assets 540 563 561
Intangible assets 3,371 3,381 3,477
Deferred income tax assets 589 588 505
Financial assets and associates 589 581 652
Non-current assets 5,246 5,272 5,349
Trade and other receivables 4,870 4,875 4,958
Income tax receivables 140 106 104
Cash and cash equivalents 263 273 381
Current assets 5,273 5,254 5,443
Total assets 10,519 10,526 10,792
equity and liabilities
Issued capital 26 26 26
Share premium 2,287 2,286 2,286
Reserves 2,029 2,134 1,902
Shareholders' equity 4,342 4,446 4,214
Non-controlling interests 1 1 1
Total equity 4,343 4,447 4,215
Borrowings (including lease liabilities) 938 935 1,100
Deferred income tax liabilities 38 47 45
Provisions and employee benefit obligations 192 183 176
Other liabilities 10 9 9
Non-current liabilities 1,178 1,174 1,330
Borrowings (including lease liabilities) 920 978 1,355
Trade and other payables 3,657 3,755 3,734
Dividends 203 - -
Income tax liabilities 106 73 77
Provisions and employee benefit obligations 104 97 76
Other liabilities 8 2 5
Current liabilities 4,998 4,905 5,247
Total liabilities 6,176 6,079 6,577
Total equity and liabilities 10,519 10,526 10,792

consolidated statement of cash flows

in millions of € Q3 2019 restated
Q3 2018
9M 2019 restated
9M 2018
Operating profit 203 260 629 680
Amortization and impairment of acquisition-related intangible assets
and goodwill
33 29 94 92
EBITA 236 289 723 772
Depreciation, amortization and impairment of property, plant,
equipment, right of use assets, and software
91 72 230 219
EBITDA 327 361 953 991
Provisions and employee benefit obligations 23 (4) 11 (10)
Share-based compensations 10 9 30 28
Gain on disposal of subsidiaries/activities - - - (2)
Other items (4) (29) (2) (92)
Cash flow from operations before operating working capital and
income taxes
356 337 992 915
Operating working capital assets 217 (11) 61 (300)
Operating working capital liabilities 42 32 (137) 81
Operating working capital 259 21 (76) (219)
Income taxes (57) (59) (166) (269)
Net cash flow from operating activities 558 299 750 427
Net additions in property, plant and equipment, and software (34) (22) (90) (73)
Acquisition of subsidiaries, associates and equity investments (17) - (23) (23)
Disposal of subsidiaries/activities and equity investments - - 7 10
Dividend from associates - - 3 3
Net cash flow from investing activities (51) (22) (103) (83)
Issue of new ordinary shares - - - 1
Net purchase of own ordinary shares - - - (15)
Net repayments of non-current borrowings (1) (70) (1) 5
Repayments of lease liabilities (56) (57) (169) (169)
Net financing (57) (127) (170) (178)
Net finance costs paid (4) (8) (10) (13)
Dividend on ordinary and preference shares - (126) (429) (518)
Net reimbursement to financiers (4) (134) (439) (531)
Net cash flow from financing activities (61) (261) (609) (709)
Net increase/(decrease) in cash, cash equivalents, and current
borrowings
446 16 38 (365)
Cash, cash equivalents, and current borrowings at beginning of
period
(897) (777) (491) (386)
Net movement 446 16 38 (365)
Translation and currency gains/(losses) 1 (2) 3 (12)
Cash, cash equivalents, and current borrowings at end of period (450) (763) (450) (763)
Free cash flow 468 220 491 185

consolidated statement of changes in total equity and consolidated statement of total comprehensive income

July 1 - September 30 January 1 - September 30
in millions of € 2019 restated
2018
2019 restated
2018
Begin of period
Shareholders' equity 4,153 4,067 4,478 4,250
Non-controlling interests1 1 1 1 1
Total equity 4,154 4,068 4,479 4,251
Effect IFRS 16 'Leases' - (35) (32) (36)
Restated value 4,154 4,033 4,447 4,215
Net income for the period 140 190 439 511
Items that subsequently may be reclassified to the income statement 39 (21) 56 (11)
Items that will never be reclassified to the income statement - 4 6 5
Total other comprehensive income, net of taxes 39 (17) 62 (6)
Total comprehensive income 179 173 501 505
Other changes in period
Dividend payable on ordinary shares - 126 - -
Dividend paid on ordinary shares - (126) (619) (505)
Dividend payable on preference shares - 13 - -
Dividend paid on preference shares - (13) (13) (13)
Share-based compensations 10 9 30 28
Tax on share-based compensations - - (3) -
Issue of ordinary shares - - - 1
Net purchase of ordinary shares - - - (15)
Acquisition of non-controlling interests - - - (1)
Total other changes in period 10 9 (605) (505)
End of period 4,343 4,215 4,343 4,215
Shareholder's equity 4,342 4,214 4,342 4,214
Non-controlling interests1 1 1 1 1
Total equity 4,343 4,215 4,343 4,215

1 Changes in 'Non-controlling interests', expressed in millions of euro, are negligible for all periods involved.

notes to the consolidated interim financial statements

reporting entity

Randstad N.V. is a public limited liability company incorporated and domiciled in the Netherlands and listed on Euronext Amsterdam.

The consolidated interim financial statements of Randstad N.V. as at and for the three and nine month period ended September 30, 2019 include the company and its subsidiaries (together called 'the Group').

significant accounting policies

These consolidated interim financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards and its interpretations issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), as adopted by the European Union (hereinafter: IFRS).

The accounting policies applied by the Group in these consolidated interim financial statements are unchanged from those applied by the Group in its consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended December 31, 2018, except for the implementation as per January 1, 2019 of IFRS 16 'Leases' and interpretation 'IFRIC 23, uncertainty over income tax treatments'. The latter has no (retrospective) material impact on the valuation of uncertainties regarding income taxes.

change in accounting policy for leases

Randstad applies IFRS 16 'Leases' as of January 1, 2019, using the full retrospective approach to previous periods, applying IAS 8 'Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting estimates and Errors'. This means that comparative reported numbers related to 2018 have been restated to reflect the eects of IFRS 16 'Leases'.

The standard requires us to recognize for almost all lease contracts a 'right of use' asset, representing our right to use the underlying asset and a liability, representing our obligation to make lease payments. The impact on the income statement is that former lease-operating expenses are replaced by depreciation and interest; as a result, key metrics such as operating profit and EBIT(D)A changed. Total expenses (depreciation for 'right of use' assets and interest on lease liabilities) are higher in the earlier years of a typical lease and lower in the later years, in comparison with former accounting for operating leases. The main impact on the statement of cash flows is higher cash flows from operating activities, since cash payments forthe principal part of the lease liability are classified in the net cash flow from financing activities.

The tax eectfrom the adjustments from IFRS 16 have been measured and recognized in the relevant period. The change in accounting policy resulted in the recognition of deferred income tax balances.

Reference is made to the below paragraph 'eects from implementation of IFRS 16 'Leases", for further details and restatement of comparative figures for 2018.

accounting policy for leases

The Group has various lease arrangements for buildings (such as local head oices and branches), cars, and IT and other equipment. Lease terms are negotiated on an individual basis locally and furthermore subjected to domestic rules and regulations. This results in a wide range of dierent terms and conditions. At the inception of a lease contract, the Group assesses whether the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a certain period in exchange for a consideration, in which case it is identified as a lease. The Group recognizes then a right of use asset and a lease liability at the lease commencement date. Lease-related assets and liabilities are measured on a present value basis. Lease-related assets and liabilities are subjected to re-measurement when either terms are modified or lease assumptions have changed. Such event results in the lease liability being re-measured to reflect the measurement of the present value of the remaining lease payments, discounted using the discount rate at the moment of the change. The related 'right of use' assets are adjusted to reflect the change in the re-measured liabilities.

right of use assets

'Right of use 'assets are measured at cost and at the inception of the lease may include the following components:

  • The initial measurement of the lease liability,
  • Lease payments made before commencement date of the lease less any lease incentives received,
  • Initial direct costs,
  • Costs to restore.

The 'right of use' assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the duration of the contract. In the event that the lease contract becomes onerous, the carrying amount of the related 'right of use' asset is impaired to the recoverable amounts, which tends to be zero.

lease liabilities

Lease liabilities include the net present value of the following components:

  • Fixed payments excluding lease incentive receivables,
  • Future contractually agreed fixed increases,
  • Payments related to renewals or early termination, in case options to renew or for early termination are reasonably certain to be exercised.

The lease payments are discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease. If such 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. The discount rate that is used to calculate the present value reflects the interest rate applicable to the lease at inception of the contract. Lease contracts entered into in a currency dierent than the local functional currency are subjected to periodically foreign currency revaluations which are recognized in the income statement in net finance costs.

The lease liabilities are subsequently increased by the interest costs on the lease liabilities and decreased by lease payments made.

subleases

The Group subleases some of its 'right of use' assets. In these instances the Group is an intermediate lessor. Most of the Group's sublease arrangements are classified as finance leases under IFRS 16. The classification of finance sublease is satisfied when substantially all the risk and rewards incidental to the underlying 'right of use' assets arising from the headlease have been transferred. Sublease contracts with the classification of financial leases are recognized as a net investment in sublease, which is presented as a financial asset. The carrying amount of the underlying 'right of use' asset is derecognized. The net investment in subleases is measured at the present value of the (future) lease receipts, discounted using our incremental borrowing rate at commencement date of the sublease. Sublease contracts with the classification of operating leases result in sublease income being recognized periodically during the sub rental period. Operating subleases have no impact on the 'right of use' asset measurement.

basis of presentation

These consolidated interim financial statements have been condensed and prepared in accordance with (IFRS) IAS 34 'Interim Financial Reporting'; they do not include all the information required for full (i.e., annual) financial statements, and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of the Group as at and for the year ended December 31, 2018.

The consolidated financial statements of the Group as at and for the year ended December 31, 2018 are available upon request at the Company's oice or on www.randstad.com.

estimates

The preparation of consolidated interim financial statements requires the Group to make certain judgments, estimates, and assumptions that aect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income, and expenses. Actual results may dier from these estimates.

In preparing these consolidated interim financial statements, the significant judgments, estimates, and assumptions are the same as those applied to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended December 31, 2018.

seasonality

The Group's activities are aected by seasonal patterns. The volume of transactions throughout the year fluctuates per quarter, depending on demand as well as on variations in items such as the number of working days, public holidays and holiday periods. The Group usually generates its strongest revenue and profits in the second half of the year, while the cash flow in the second quarteris usually negative due to the timing of payments of dividend and holiday allowances; cash flow tends to be strongest in the second half of the year.

effective tax rate

The eective tax rate for the nine month period ended September 30, 2019 is 26.8% (9M 2018: 22.5%), and is based on the estimated tax rate for the whole year 2019 (actual FY 2018: 13.2% which is influenced by an exceptional tax benefit in Q4 2018).

acquisition and disposal of group companies, equity investments and associates

In Q3, 2019 we had a cash outflow from acquisition of Group companies of € 17 million (Q3, 2018: zero), of which € 2 million related to equity investments and € 15 million related to the acquisition of Group companies.

The Group acquired 100% of the shares of the Aurec-group and of Optedis Sas. The Aurec-group – based in Australia – and Optedis – based in France – have their activities in the professionals segment. For Optedis the Group already had a 5% participation. Goodwill amounted to € 13 million and is based on provisional purchase price allocations. The fair value of net assets acquired amounted to € 11 million. The provisional purchase consideration was € 24 million, of which € 9 million is deferred at the moment of acquisition.

The contribution of the acquired companies to Group's revenue and EBITA was € 8 million and negligible respectively. If these companies would have been acquired at January 1, 2019 the estimated additional contribution to revenue and EBITA would have been € 50 million and € 2 million respectively.

In Q3, 2019 and Q3, 2018 we had no disposal of Group companies.

shareholders' equity

Issued number of ordinary shares 2019 2018
January 1 183,301,821 183,264,045
Share-based compensations 1,731 37,776
September 30 183,303,552 183,301,821

As at September 30, 2019 the Group held 20,735 treasury shares (September 30, 2018: 197,616), compared to 197,616 as at December 31, 2018. The average number of (diluted) ordinary shares outstanding has been adjusted for these treasury shares.

As at September 30, 2019, December 31, 2018, and September 30, 2018 the number of issued preference shares was 25,200,000 (type B) and 50,130,352 (type C).

earnings per share

in millions of €, unless otherwise indicated Q3 2019 restated
Q3 2018
9M 2019 restated
9M 2018
Net income 140 190 439 511
Net income attributable to holders of preference shares (3) (3) (9) (9)
Net income attributable to holders of ordinary shares 137 187 430 502
Amortization of intangible assets1 33 29 94 92
Integration costs, one-offs and impairments 62 16 79 43
Tax effect on amortization, integration costs, and one-offs (25) (13) (46) (37)
Adjusted net income for holders of ordinary shares 207 219 557 600
Average number of ordinary shares outstanding 183.3 183.1 183.3 183.0
Average number of diluted ordinary shares outstanding 183.9 183.6 183.7 183.3
Earnings per share attributable to the holders of ordinary shares of
Randstad N.V. (in € per share):
Basic earnings per share 0.74 1.03 2.35 2.74
Diluted earnings per share 0.74 1.02 2.34 2.74
Diluted earnings per share before amortization and impairment of
acquisition-related intangible assets and goodwill, integration costs,
and one-offs2
1.12 1.20 3.03 3.27

1 Amortization and impairment of acquisition-related intangible assets and goodwill.

2 Diluted EPS underlying.

net debt position

Net debt including lease liabilities at September 30, 2019 amounted to € 1,595 million, and was € 45 million lower compared to December 31, 2018 (€ 1,640 million). The net debt position excluding lease liabilities as at September 30, 2019 (€ 961 million) was € 24 million lower compared to the net debt position as at December 31, 2018 (€ 985 million).

In Q3, 2019, the Group extended the maturity term of its multi-currency syndicated revolving credit facility with one year from July 2023 to July 2024. From July 2023, the amount at the disposal of the Group changes from € 1,850 million to € 1,778 million; other terms and conditions remain unchanged.

breakdown of operating expenses

in millions of € Q3 2019 restated
Q3 2018
9M 2019 restated
9M 2018
Personnel expenses 681 665 2,041 2,008
Other operating expenses 286 237 760 716
Operating expenses 967 902 2,801 2,724

depreciation, amortization, impairment of property, plant, equipment, right of use assets and software

in millions of € Q3 2019 restated
Q3 2018
9M 2019 restated
9M 2018
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment 16 14 43 39
Amortization and impairment of software 14 8 31 26
Depreciation and amortization of software 30 22 74 65
Depreciation and impairment of right of use assets 61 50 156 154
Total 91 72 230 219

net additions to property, plant, equipment and software, statement of cash flows

in millions of € Q3 2019 restated
Q3 2018
9M 2019 restated
9M 2018
Additions
Property, plant and equipment (17) (16) (42) (48)
Software (17) (14) (51) (36)
(34) (30) (93) (84)
Disposals
Proceeds property, plant and equipment - 8 3 11
(Profit)/Loss - - - -
- 8 3 11
Statement of cash flows (34) (22) (90) (73)

french competitive employment act ('CICE')

Included in the consolidated balance sheet under 'financial assets and associates' is an amount of € 386 million (December 31, 2018: € 386 million) relating to the non-current part of a receivable arising from tax credits under the French Competitive Employment Act ('CICE'). An amount of € 105 million (December 31, 2018: € 107 million) is included in 'Trade and other receivables' representing the current part of the CICE receivable.

total comprehensive income

Apart from net income for the period, total comprehensive income comprises translation dierences and related tax eects that subsequently may be reclassified to the income statement in a future reporting period, and fair value adjustments of equity investments that will never be reclassified to the income statement.

related-party transactions

There are no material changes in the nature, scope, and (relative) scale in this reporting period compared to last year. More information is included in notes 22, 23 and 24 to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended December 31, 2018.

commitments

There are no material changes in the nature and scope of commitments compared to December 31, 2018, except for the eects of implementation IFRS 16 'Leases' which caused discounted liabilities arising from lease contracts to be

included in the balance sheet instead of being reported as 'commitments'. More information is included in note 27 to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended December 31, 2018.

events after balance sheet date

Subsequentto the date ofthe balance sheet, no events materialto the Group as a whole occurred thatrequire disclosure in this note.

effects from implementation of IFRS 16 'Leases'

In the tables below are disclosed: 1) eects on the balance sheet as at December 31, 2017, June 30, 2018, September 30, 2018 and December 31, 2018; 2) eects on the income statement 2018; 3) eects on the statement of cash flows 2018. For the restated quarterly income statements and statement of cash flows, refer to the separate press release for restatement of comparative figures 2018. This document is available on our website www.randstad.com.

effects from implementation of IFRS 16 'Leases' on balance sheet

in millions of € December 31, 2017 December 31, 2018
Reported Effects
IFRS 16
Restated Reported Effects
IFRS 16
Restated
Property, plant, equipment and software 234 - 234 260 - 260
Right of use assets - 581 581 - 563 563
Goodwill and acquisition-related
intangibles
3,475 - 3,475 3,280 - 3,280
Deferred income tax assets 438 9 447 581 7 588
Financial assets and associates 530 9 539 563 18 581
Total non-current assets 4,677 599 5,276 4,684 588 5,272
Working capital assets/(liabilities),
excluding lease liabilities
455 28 483 534 29 563
Lease liabilities (current part) - (199) (199) - (214) (214)
Working capital assets/(liabilities) 455 (171) 284 534 (185) 349
Non-current borrowings, excluding lease
liabilities
(640) - (640) (494) - (494)
Lease liabilities (non-current part) - (465) (465) - (441) (441)
Deferred income tax liabilities (44) - (44) (47) - (47)
Provisions and employee benefit
obligations
(186) 1 (185) (189) 6 (183)
Other liabilities (11) - (11) (9) - (9)
Total non-current (liabilities) (881) (464) (1,345) (739) (435) (1,174)
Total equity (4,251) 36 (4,215) (4,479) 32 (4,447)
in millions of € September 30, 2018 June 30, 2018
Reported Effects
IFRS 16
Restated Reported Effects
IFRS 16
Restated
Property, plant, equipment and software 245 - 245 244 - 244
Right of use assets - 561 561 - 567 567
Goodwill and acquisition-related
intangibles
3,386 - 3,386 3,429 - 3,429
Deferred income tax assets 495 10 505 488 11 499
Financial assets and associates 640 12 652 603 12 615
Total non-current assets 4,766 583 5,349 4,764 590 5,354
Working capital assets/(liabilities),
excluding lease liabilities
377 30 407 275 26 301
Lease liabilities (current part) - (211) (211) - (213) (213)
Working capital assets/(liabilities) 377 (181) 196 275 (187) 88
Non-current borrowings, excluding lease
liabilities
(656) - (656) (730) - (730)
Lease liabilities (non-current part) - (444) (444) - (449) (449)
Deferred income tax liabilities (45) - (45) (45) - (45)
Provisions and employee benefit
obligations
(183) 7 (176) (190) 11 (179)
Other liabilities (9) - (9) (6) - (6)
Total non-current (liabilities) (893) (437) (1,330) (971) (438) (1,409)
Total equity (4,250) 35 (4,215) (4,068) 35 (4,033)

effects from implementation of IFRS 16 'Leases' on income statement 2018

in millions of € Reported
2018
E…ects
IFRS 16
Restated
2018
Revenue 23,812 - 23,812
Gross Profit 4,701 - 4,701
Other operating expenses 3,669 (29) 3,640
Amortization and impairment goodwill and acquisition-related intangibles 219 - 219
Operating expenses 3,888 (29) 3,859
Operating Profit 813 29 842
Net finance (costs) and share of profit of associates (2) (23) (25)
Income before taxes 811 6 817
Taxes on income (107) (2) (109)
Net income 704 4 708

effects from implementation of IFRS 16 'Leases' on statement of cash flows 2018

Reported E…ects Restated
in millions of € 2018 IFRS 16 2018
Operating profit 813 29 842
Amortization and impairment goodwill and acquisition-related intangibles 219 - 219
EBITA 1,032 29 1,061
Depreciation, amortization software and impairments 89 - 89
Depreciation and impairment right of use assets - 205 205
EBITDA 1,121 234 1,355
Provisions and employee benefit obligations 8 (5) 3
Other 15 (2) 13
Operating working capital (95) - (95)
Income taxes (302) - (302)
Net cash flow from operating activities 747 227 974
Net cash flow from investing activities (130) - (130)
Net cash flow from financing activities (713) (227) (940)
Net (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and current borrowings (96) - (96)

right of use assets

in millions of € September 30,
2019
December 31,
2018
September 30,
2018
December 31,
2017
Right of use buildings 446 463 472 487
Right of use cars 86 92 88 93
Right of use IT and other equipment 8 8 1 1
Right of use assets, net book value 540 563 561 581