Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

1General information

Arbonia Group (Arbonia) is a focused building components supplier, whose innovative solutions and services provide for the efficient use of energy as well as for safety, security and well-being. Arbonia is divided into four main divisions, namely HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning), Sanitary Equipment, Windows and Doors. Manufacturing plants are located in Switzerland, Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, Poland, Russia, Slovakia, Belgium and the Netherlands. Arbonia owns major brands such as Kermi, Arbonia, Prolux, Koralle, Sabiana, Vasco, Brugman, Superia, EgoKiefer, Slovaktual, Dobroplast, Wertbau, RWD Schlatter, Prüm, Garant and Invado and possesses a strong position in its home markets in Switzerland and Germany. The Group focuses mainly on the development of existing markets in Central and Eastern Europe. Arbonia is represented in over 70 countries worldwide.

On 4 January 2021, a contract was signed between Arbonia and the Danish DOVISTA Group for the sale of the windows business. The closing of the transaction is expected in the second quarter of 2021 (see note 36).

The ultimate parent company, Arbonia AG is a corporation organised under Swiss law incorporated and domiciled at Amriswilerstrasse 50, CH-9320 Arbon (Canton Thurgau). Arbonia AG is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange in Zurich under the valor number 11024060 / ISIN CH0110240600.

These consolidated financial statements have been approved for issue by the Board of Directors of Arbonia AG on 22 February 2021 and require approval from the Annual General Meeting on 23 April 2021. The publication of the consolidated financial statements occurred on 2 March 2021 at the media and analyst conference.

2General principles and basis of preparation

The consolidated financial statements of Arbonia have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with IFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates and assumptions. It also requires management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies. Areas involving a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the consolidated financial statements, are disclosed in note 30.

Amendments to significant published standards

The accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the annual consolidated financial statements are consistent with those used in the preparation of the annual consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2019.

The new or amended standards had no material impact on the Group’s financial statements.

Published standards that are not yet effective nor adopted early

The published but as of the balance sheet date not yet effective significant new or amended standards will not have a material impact on the Group’s financial statements.

3Reporting entity

The consolidated financial statements are based on the financial statements of the individual Group companies prepared as of 31 December. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to Arbonia (generally where the interest in votes and share capital is more than 50%). They are deconsolidated from the date that control ceases.

Investments in associated companies, over which Arbonia exercises significant influence but does not control, are initially recognised at cost. The cost comprises the share in net assets and a possible goodwill. After the date of acquisition, the investment is accounted for using the equity method. A significant influence is generally assumed by a shareholding of between 20% to 50% of the voting rights.

The following material changes occurred in the Group:

In the financial year 2020

There were no changes in the scope of consolidation in 2019.

An overview of the material Group companies is included in note 60.

4Full consolidation

In line with the full consolidation method, 100% of all balance sheet and income statement items are included in the consolidated financial statements. Intercompany transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between Group companies are eliminated.

For each acquisition the non-controlling interest in the acquiree is either measured at fair value or the proportionate acquired net assets. Non-controlling interests are disclosed in the balance sheet as part of shareholders’ equity, provided that no purchase commitment exists. The result attributable to non-controlling interests in the income statement and the statement of comprehensive income forms part of the Group result for the period.

5Capital consolidation

Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to Arbonia. The acquisition method of accounting is used to account for the acquisition of subsidiaries. The cost of an acquisition is measured at the fair value of the assets given and liabilities incurred or assumed at the date of exchange. The excess of the cost of acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s share of the identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. Contingent considerations are measured at fair value as a cost of the acquisition. Subsequent changes to the fair value of the contingent consideration are recognised in the income statement unless the consideration is an equity instrument. Directly attributable acquisition-related costs are expensed.

If the acquisition is achieved in stages, the acquisition date carrying value of the acquirer’s previously held equity interest is remeasured to fair value at the acquisition date. Gains or losses arising from such remeasurement are recognised in the income statement.

If the cost of acquisition is less than the fair value of the net assets of the subsidiary acquired, the difference is recognised directly in the income statement.

Companies which are sold are deconsolidated from the date that control ceases. The difference between the consideration received and the net assets is recognised in the income statement as other operating income/expenses.

6Significant accounting policies

The principal accounting policies applied in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements are set out below, from notes 7 to 29.

These consolidated financial statements are based on the annual financial statements of the Group companies prepared in accordance with the Group's uniform accounting policies. Balance sheet items are generally stated at cost as modified by the revaluation of financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss. Assets held for sale and disposal groups are measured at the lower of its carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell. Investments in associated companies are measured at cost at the time of acquisition and subsequently at the proportionate share of equity.

7Foreign currency translation

Functional and presentation currency

Items included in the financial statements of each Group company are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the company operates (the functional currency). The consolidated financial statements are presented in Swiss francs (CHF).

Transactions and balances

Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rate prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation at year-end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in the income statement, except when deferred in comprehensive income as qualifying net investment hedges.

Group companies

The results and financial position of all the Group companies that have a functional currency different from the presentation currency are translated into the presentation currency as follows:

Assets and liabilities for each balance sheet presented are translated at the closing rate at the date of that balance sheet. Income and expenses for each income statement as well as the cash flow statements are translated at average exchange rates. All resulting exchange differences are recognised as a separate component of comprehensive income under other reserves.

Exchange differences arising on intercompany loans of an equity nature that essentially form part of the company’s net investment in the foreign entity are classified in comprehensive income under other reserves.

Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign entity are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign entity and are translated at the closing rate.

When a foreign operation is sold or liquidated, exchange differences that were recorded in comprehensive income are recognised in the income statement.

The following foreign currency rates have been applied:

8Maturities

Assets realised or consumed within 12 months in the ordinary course of business or held for trading purposes are classified as current assets. All other assets are classified as non-current assets.

Liabilities to be redeemed in the ordinary course of business, held primarily for the purpose of trading, falling due within 12 months from the balance sheet date or do not have an unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for at least 12 months after the balance sheet date are classified as current liabilities. All other liabilities are classified as non-current liabilities. If a binding commitment to extend an expiring financial liability has been received as of the balance sheet date, the new maturity is also taken into account in the classification.

9Financial instruments

A financial instrument is a transaction that results in the creation of a financial asset for one party and simultaneously in the creation of a financial liability or equity instrument for the other party. Accounts receivable and debt securities issued are initially recognised when they are originated. All other financial assets and financial liabilities are initially recognised when the Group becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

Financial assets are divided into the following three categories: (1) Financial assets measured at amortised cost (FA AC), (2) Financial assets measured at fair value through profit or loss (FA FVTPL), (3) Financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income (FA FVTOCI). The classification depends on the company's business model for managing financial assets and on the contractual cash flows. Management determines the classification upon initial recognition and reviews it at each balance sheet date. Arbonia's financial assets include cash and cash equivalents (category 1), trade accounts receivable (1), other assets (1), deferred expenses (1), loans (2), Other financial assets (1) and investments < 20% (2).

Purchases and sales constituting a financial asset are reported in the balance sheet as of the execution date and are eliminated when the right to receive payments has lapsed or been transferred and Arbonia has surrendered control of the same, i.e. when the related opportunities and risks have been transferred or expired.

Transaction costs directly attributable to the acquisition are also reported with respect to all financial assets not carried at fair value through profit or loss in subsequent periods.

The subsequent measurement of debt instruments depends on the classification: (1) Assets held to collect contractual cash flows, for which these cash flows represent exclusively interest and principal payments, are measured at amortised cost. (2) Assets that do not meet the criteria of category 1 or 3 are classified as at fair value through profit or loss. (3) Assets held to collect contractual cash flows and to sell financial assets, where the cash flows are exclusively interest and principal payments, are measured at fair value through equity. Subsequent measurement of the equity instruments held is at fair value.

There are no financial assets designated as at fair value through profit or loss (fair value option).

At each balance sheet date, financial assets (debt securities) that are not measured at fair value through profit or loss are assessed for expected credit losses. Indications that the creditworthiness of assets is impaired include financial difficulties, breaches of contract and possible bankruptcy of the contracting party. A default with respect to a financial asset exists if it appears unlikely that the contracting party will meet its contractual payments to the Group in full. If loans or receivables have been impaired, the company continues to enforce the receivable to recover it. Financial assets are written-off as soon as there is no reasonable expectation of recovery. Among the indicators that there is no reasonable expectation of recovery is the bankruptcy of the counterparty. Further information on the impairment of financial assets is provided in the accounting policies for the individual assets (in particular on accounts receivable and contract assets in note 13).

Financial liabilities are divided into the following two categories: (1) Financial liabilities measured at fair value through profit or loss (FL FVTPL), this category being further subdivided into financial liabilities classified as held for trading from the inception and those designated at fair value through profit or loss from the inception and (2) financial liabilities measured at amortised cost (FL AC). Arbonia's financial liabilities comprise trade accounts payable (2), other liabilities (2), lease liabilities (2), accruals and deferred income (2), financial debts (2) and derivative financial liabilities (1).

Financial assets and financial liabilities are normally reported on a gross basis. They are only reported on a net basis if there is at presence a right of offset and an intent to settle on a net basis.

10Derivative financial instruments

The Group uses derivative financial instruments to minimise interest rate risks resulting from operational business and financial transactions. They are initially recognised at fair value on the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured at their fair value.

Arbonia does not apply hedge accounting in accordance with IFRS 9. Derivatives are measured at fair value through profit or loss and disclosed in the balance sheet as other current assets or other current liabilities.

11Fair value estimation of financial instruments

The fair value of financial instruments traded in active markets (such as publicly traded derivatives and securities) is based on quoted market prices at the balance sheet date. The quoted market price used for financial assets is the current bid price, for financial liabilities the current asking price.

The fair value of financial instruments that are not traded in an active market is determined by using appropriate valuation techniques, e.g. comparison with similar at arm’s length transactions, valuation using the discounted cash flow method or other established valuation methods.

Financial instruments measured at fair value are disclosed under the following hierarchy:

Due to its current nature, the nominal value less estimated allowance of accounts receivable is assumed to approximate their fair value. The nominal value of accounts payable is assumed to approximate their fair value. The fair value of financial liabilities disclosed in the notes is estimated by discounting the future contractual cash flows at the current market interest rate that is available to the Group for similar financial instruments.

The fair value of financial debts is assigned to level 2 of the above mentioned hierarchy.

12Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents includes cash on hand, deposits held at call with post and banks, other short-term highly liquid investments with original maturities not exceeding three months. Cash and cash equivalents are subject to the impairment provisions of IFRS 9, but as the expected losses are completely insignificant, no impairment losses have been recognised.

13Receivables and contract assets

Accounts receivable and other current assets are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less provision for impairment. Accounts receivable and contract assets are regularly monitored and expected credit defaults assessed. The expected losses are estimated as part of the determination of specific allowances. The assessment is based both on historical experience and on current circumstances, as well as on forward-looking information. This includes an assessment of the expected business and economic conditions as well as the future financial performance of the contracting party. On the basis of the overdue period in days, value adjustments are also made for expected losses on the receivables remaining after specific allowances. Collateral received is taken into account when calculating the provision for impairment. Impairment losses on receivables are recognised using an allowance account.

In connection with a factoring agreement certain accounts receivable are sold. Since Arbonia hasn’t transferred all the risks and rewards of ownership and still retains control, the receivables have to be recorded in the balance sheet to the extent of the so-called continuing involvement. In particular the late payment risk is completely retained by Arbonia up until a certain point in time.

14Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost is determined using the weighted average cost method based on normal operating capacity. It excludes borrowing costs. Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less applicable variable selling expenses. Claimed cash discounts are treated as a reduction of cost. Items with a low turnover rate are depreciated and obsolete items are fully written off.

15Assets held for sale and associated liabilities

Non-current assets or a disposal group held for sale and liabilities associated with assets held for sale are classified as such if their carrying amount will be recovered principally through a sale transaction, not through continuing use. For this to be the case, the successful sale must be highly probable, an active search for a buyer is taking place and the asset must be available for immediate sale in its present condition. For the sale to be highly probable, management must be committed to a plan to sell the asset, the offer price of the asset is reasonable in relation to its current fair value and the sale is expected to be completed within one year. The assets are stated at the lower of carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell. Potential impairments are directly recorded within the income statement. Starting from the date of reclassification to this category, depreciation is ceased.

16Discontinued operations

A discontinued operation is a component of an entity that either has been disposed of, or is classified as held for sale and represents a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations. Such a component comprises operations and cash flows that can be clearly distinguished, operationally and for financial reporting purposes, from the rest of the entity. The classification as discontinued operations occurs on the disposal of the operation or at an earlier point in time, provided the operation meets the criteria for the classification as held for sale. Discontinued operations are disclosed separately in the income statement and previous comparative periods are restated accordingly. However previous year’s balance sheet is not restated.

17Property, plant and equipment

Land is stated at cost. Buildings, plant, machinery and other equipment are stated at cost less depreciation. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method based on estimated useful lives as stipulated under note 21.

Impairments (see also note 20) are separately disclosed under accumulated depreciation. Repair and maintenance costs are expensed.

18Investment property

Investment property, principally comprising land and buildings, is held for long-term rental yields or appreciation and is not used for more than for minor operational purposes. Investment property is carried at cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method.

The fair value of investment property, which is required for disclosure purposes, is determined using the discounted cash flow method. Based on attainable net rental income (gross rental income minus operating costs and future refurbishment costs), the discounted cash flows are calculated for the next 10 years with a residual value for the time thereafter. The fair value of undeveloped land is determined by considering current local market conditions. The fair value of land with buildings and undeveloped land of acquired subsidiaries is determined by external valuers. The fair value of certain other undeveloped land has been estimated internally.

19Intangible assets

Intangible assets include goodwill, which represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s share of the net identifiable assets of the acquired subsidiary including contingent liabilities at the date of acquisition. If in case of an acquisition Arbonia grants a put option to the non-controlling interests, this obligation is recognised at the present value of the exercise price. Goodwill is seen as an intangible asset with an indefinite useful life. Impairment on goodwill (see note 20) is separately disclosed under accumulated impairment losses.

Intangible assets comprise purchased computer software and licenses at costs incurred. They are measured at cost less accumulated amortisation, calculated using the straight-line method based on estimated useful lives as stipulated under note 21.

Intangible assets acquired in a business combination (brands, patents, technologies, client relationships, distribution channels, etc.) are carried at fair value less accumulated amortisation, calculated using the straight-line method based on estimated useful lives as stipulated under note 21.

Expenses relating to research activities are directly charged to the income statement in the period in which they are incurred. Development costs are capitalised at acquisition cost or production cost and reported under intangible assets if all criteria under IAS 38 have been met on a cumulative basis, including evidence of technical and economic feasibility, evidence of expected future economic benefit and attributability of costs and their reliable valuation. They are amortised over the expected useful life on the basis specified in note 21. Development costs not meeting the criteria under IAS 38 are directly charged to the income statement in the period in which they are incurred.

20Impairment of assets

Assets subject to amortisation and depreciation, such as property, plant and equipment and intangible assets with a definite useful life are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Assets that have an indefinite useful life, such as goodwill, are tested annually for impairment. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of its fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. The value in use is based on discounted future cash flows. The applied discount rate is a pre-tax rate using the weighted average cost of capital (WACC) method. For the purpose of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash flows (cash-generating units – CGU).

21Estimated useful lives

22Provisions

Provisions are recognised only when Arbonia has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events, the amount has been reliably estimated and it is more likely than not that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation.

Provisions for restructuring are only recognised when costs for such a programme can be reliably estimated by virtue of a detailed formal plan and Arbonia has a legal or constructive obligation or has raised a valid expectation in those affected.

Provisions are measured at the present value of the expenditures expected to be required to settle the obligation. The increase in provision due to passage of time is recognised as interest expense.

23Employee benefit obligations

Arbonia manages various pension plans within Switzerland and abroad. The plans are funded through payments to trustee-administered funds or insurance companies or are unfunded arrangements.

Based on their characteristics the pension plans qualify under IAS 19 as defined benefit plans. A defined benefit plan is a pension plan that defines an amount of pension benefit that an employee will receive on retirement, usually dependent on one or more factors such as age, years of service and compensation.

The liability recognised in the balance sheet to pay future retirement benefits is determined using the projected unit credit method, which is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the balance sheet date less the fair value of plan assets. If the fair value of plan assets exceeds the present value of the defined benefit obligation, a pension surplus will only be recognised taking the asset ceiling into account. The present value of the defined benefit obligation is determined by discounting the estimated future cash outflows using interest rates of high-quality bonds. Actuarial valuations are carried out on a regular basis by independent actuaries. Components of defined benefit costs are service cost, net interest result and remeasurement of pension obligations. Service cost includes the increase in current service cost, past service cost (plan amendments or curtailments) and settlements and is reported under personnel expenses. The net interest result is calculated on the net amount of the defined benefit obligation and plan assets using the discount rate and is reported in the financial result. The remeasurement of pension benefit obligations include actuarial gains and losses arising from experience adjustments and changes in actuarial assumptions and is recognised immediately in the statement of comprehensive income in other comprehensive income. Likewise, this position includes the return on plan assets and asset ceiling effects.

24Financial debts

Current and non-current financial debts consist of promissory note loans, syndicated loans, bank loans and mortgages. Financial debts are initially recognised at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred. They are subsequently stated at amortised cost. Any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the redemption value is recognised in the income statement over the period of the financial debt, using the effective interest method.

25Leases

An assessment is made at the beginning of the contract as to whether an agreement constitutes or contains a lease. A contract is or contains a lease if the contract conveys a right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. Arbonia uses the optional exemption not to recognise short-term and low-value leases in the balance sheet, but to recognise the corresponding lease payments as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

The lease liability is initially measured at the present value of future lease payments during the non-cancellable period of the lease. Arbonia uses incremental borrowing rates as discount rates. On initial measurement, the right-of-use asset corresponds to the lease liability plus any dismantling costs, initial direct costs and advance payments. The right-of-use asset is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the useful life and the lease term. If it is intended to exercise a purchase option at the end of the contract period, the asset is depreciated over its useful life. The right-of-use asset is subject to an impairment test if there are indications of impairment.

If the expected lease payments change, e.g. in the case of payments based on an index or due to new estimates regarding contractual options, the lease liability is remeasured. The remeasurement to the lease liability is generally recognised as an adjustment to the related right-of-use asset without affecting the income statement.

26Deferred income tax

Deferred income tax is provided in full, using the liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the consolidated financial statements. However, the deferred income tax is not accounted for if it arises from initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction other than a business combination that at the time of the transaction affects neither accounting nor taxable profit or loss. Deferred income tax is determined using tax rates that have been enacted by the balance sheet date. Deferred income tax is provided on temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries, except where the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference is controlled by Arbonia and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

Deferred income tax assets including unused tax loss carryforwards are recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilised.

The book value of capitalised deferred income tax assets is assessed for impairment at each balance sheet date and a loss is recognised in case of insufficient future taxable profit.

27Share based payment

Members of the Board of Directors and Group Management as well as certain employees participate in a share based payment plan. The fair value of the equity compensation instruments granted to employees is estimated at the grant date and recorded over the service period to the income statement as personnel expenses with a corresponding offsetting entry to equity.

28Shareholders’ equity

The share premium relates to the Company going public back in 1988 and the capital increases in 2007, 2009, 2015, 2016 and 2017. Retained earnings include also remeasurements of employee benefit obligations.

Treasury shares are deducted from shareholders’ equity. The cost of these treasury shares and the consideration received from the sale of these instruments (net of transaction cost and taxes) are recorded directly in shareholders’ equity.

29Income statement

Net revenue

The Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Division (HVAC) generates its sales in the heating technology sector by selling individual product components as well as complete system solutions for residential, commercial and public construction. In the ventilation and air conditioning sector, the product portfolio includes fan coils, ceiling systems, air heaters and ventilation units, as well as systems for residential, commercial and industrial buildings. In addition, radiators, underfloor heating systems, heating walls and underfloor convectors are sold.

The Sanitary Equipment Division generates its sales through the sale of shower areas, shower enclosures and shower stalls for individual bathroom situations.

Contracts within these divisions may include several different products which qualify as separate performance obligations. The performance obligation is generally fulfilled when the customer has received delivery. The individual products of a contract are delivered at the same time. It is therefore not necessary to allocate the transaction price to the individual performance obligations. At the time of delivery the invoice is issued and hence a recognition of a contract asset is not required. Revenue is therefore recognized at a point in time. The variable considerations can be reliably measured at the time the performance obligation is fulfilled and are taken into account as sales deductions. Production in the HVAC and Sanitary Equipment divisions is based on short-term series production. Payment periods customary in the industry are granted unless special payment periods have been agreed. There is therefore no financing component.

The Windows Division generates its sales through the sale of windows and window systems, including exterior doors, in a wide variety of designs and configurations.

The Doors Division generates its sales by selling interior and functional doors in a wide variety of designs and configurations.

The above-mentioned divisions are resellers/commercial dealers on the one hand and operate in the project business on the other hand. The project business is characterised by long-term contracts which partially have a duration of over one year. The businesses of resale/commercial deals and the project business always consist of one single performance obligation.

The performance obligation in the resale/commercial business is fulfilled when the customer has received the delivery. As a result of that, an invoice is issued and hence recognition of a contract asset is not required. The variable considerations can be reliably measured at the time the performance obligation is fulfilled and are taken into account as sales deductions. Payment periods customary in the industry are granted unless special payment periods have been agreed. There is therefore no financing component.

The performance obligation in the project business is progressively satisfied over the period of the provided services (planning, production, assembly, acceptance) using the cost-to-cost method. Under the cost-to-cost method, the stage of completion is measured based on the ratio of costs incurred to date to the total budgeted costs. Revenue is recognised in proportion to the contract costs incurred. Therefore, revenue is recognised over the term of a contract. The allocation of the transaction price to separate performance obligations is not required because of the existence of only one performance obligation in the project business. Variable considerations such as discounts or construction rebates which can be measured reliably are deducted from the transaction price at the beginning of the contract term. In this way, these revenue reductions can be realised proportionally to the revenue recognition over the contract term. For reasons of materiality, it is not necessary to adjust the consideration for the time value of money or to measure non-cash consideration. If revenue is recognised as mentioned before, but the expected amount of consideration has not yet been invoiced, then a contract asset is recognised due to the conditional right to consideration. Accounts receivable from project business are recognised when the right to the consideration becomes unconditional. The right becomes unconditional when an acceptance protocol is signed and accordingly the invoice is issued to the customer. Payment periods customary in the industry are granted unless special payment periods have been agreed. The contract liability relates to contracts whose partial payments exceed the stage of completion or the revenue already recognised respectively, on a net contract-by-contract basis. Contract liabilities are recognised as revenue when the contractual performance obligation has been satisfied. Based on the analysed order durations, there are no significant financing components. The treatment of loss-making contracts occurs regardless of the stage of completion by recognising a provision amounting to the total contract loss resulting from the total budgeted costs not covered by the total amount of the transaction price.

Net revenues are reported net of sales or value-added taxes and are shown net of sales deductions.

Cost incurred in the course of initiating or fulfilling a contract with a customer is not capitalised.

The assessment of right of return, refund and similar obligations is not necessary as they do not constitute an integral part of Arbonia's business.

Revenues from contracts with customers are broken down by category in the segment reporting. Segment reporting also shows a breakdown of revenues recognised at a point in time and satisfied over time.

Other operating income

Other operating income is recognised when the service has been rendered and comprises amongst others proceeds from the sale of scrap metal, service income, license income, rental income and gains on the sale of investment property and property, plant and equipment.

EBITDA

EBITDA shows earnings before financial results, tax, depreciation and amortisation on non-current assets.

EBITA

EBITA shows earnings before financial results, tax and amortisation of intangible assets from acquisitions.

EBIT

EBIT shows earnings before financial results and tax.

Financial income

Financial income comprises amongst others interest income, minority share from associated companies, dividend and security income and foreign exchange gains. Furthermore, cumulative gains of exchange differences resulting from the disposal or the liquidation of subsidiaries, transferred from equity, are also included. Interest income is recognised on a time-proportion basis using the effective interest method. Dividend income is recognised when the right to receive payment is established.

Financial expenses

Financial expenses primarily include interest expenses, impairment of loans, bank charges and foreign exchange losses. Furthermore, cumulative losses of exchange differences resulting from the disposal or the liquidation of subsidiaries, transferred from equity, are also included. Interest expenses are recognised using the effective interest method. Foreign exchange gains and losses are shown on a net basis.

30Significant accounting judgments, estimates and assumptions

All estimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Arbonia makes judgments, estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates will, by definition, not always equal the related actual results. The judgments, estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are discussed below.

Revenue recognition

With regards to performance obligations that are fulfilled at a point in time, there are no significant estimates when assessing the point in time. Revenue is recognised when the goods are delivered to the customer.

In project business, sales are realised over a period of time. Arbonia determines the stage of completion by using the cost-to-cost method. In Arbonia’s opinion, this method best depicts the transfer of control of the products to the customer. Under the cost-to-cost method, the stage of completion is measured based on the ratio of costs incurred to date to the total budgeted costs. Changes due to post calculations and actively managed project controlling are taken into account when determining the stage of completion. Such changes in estimates are recognised prospectively. Costs for future activities, such as costs for materials not yet installed or inefficiencies due to revisions (error costs), are charged directly to the income statement and are not included in the calculation of the stage of completion. Revenue is recognised proportionally as costs are incurred. If the expected margin cannot be measured reliably, then revenue is recognised only in the amount of costs incurred.

Inventory provision

In order to determine the adequacy of the inventory provision, factors such as expected sales prices, inventory turnover and coverage days of inventory are considered. As of 31 December 2020, the carrying amount of inventory was at CHF 133.6 million. Therein a provision for inventories of CHF 20.0 million is included. A falling market demand or falling sales prices could lead to additional provisions needed. For further information on the inventory provision, see note 34.

Useful lives for property, plant and equipment

Arbonia has a significant amount of its assets invested in property, plant and equipment. As of 31 December 2020, the carrying amount of property, plant and equipment totalled CHF 491.4 million. At the time of the purchase useful lives for such assets are based on estimates, as technical obsolescence or competition could lead to shorter useful lives than initially anticipated. Therefore the determination of useful lives is based on stringent standards and thereafter continuously reviewed and if necessary adjusted. A change in estimate could impact the level of future depreciation charges. For further information on property, plant and equipment, see note 37.

Estimated impairment of goodwill

As of 31 December 2020, the carrying amount of goodwill was at CHF 177.6 million. Arbonia tests at least annually whether goodwill has suffered any impairment, in accordance with the accounting policy stated in note 20. The recoverable amounts of cash-generating units have been determined based on value in use calculations. These calculations require the use of estimates such as expected future cash flows, margins, discount rates and growth rates. These estimates could change or differ from the actual outcome and therefore lead to additional impairments. For further information on goodwill, see note 40.

Intangible assets acquired in a business combination

Brands, technologies, client relationships and distribution channels are amortised over their estimated useful lives. At initial recognition, assumptions and estimates must be made about the expected cash flows such as sales prices, margins, discount rates, attrition rates of clients and technological development which of course are exposed to some uncertainties. As of 31 December 2020, the carrying amount of intangible assets acquired in a business combination amounted to CHF 151.1 million. For further information on such acquired intangible assets, see note 40.

Provisions

Provisions are recognised based on the criteria as set out under note 22. As of 31 December 2020, the carrying amount of the provisions totalled CHF 19.9 million. In estimating the amount of provision, assumptions are used and depending on the outcome of the various business transactions, the actual cash outflow and its timing could significantly differ from the booked provision. For further information on provisions, see note 45.

Employee benefit obligations

Employee benefit obligations for defined benefit plans are based on actuarial valuations, which use statistical calculations and actuarial assumptions (see note 23). Such assumptions include amongst others discount rates, future salary and pension increases, probable turnover rates as well as life expectancy of plan participants. The assumptions underlying these calculations are dependent on a number of prospective factors, therefore actual results could significantly differ from the original valuations and as a consequence impact the carrying amount of capitalised pension surplus and employee benefit obligation. As of 31 December 2020, the underfunding amounted to CHF 45.4 million, thereof CHF 12.3 million recorded in the balance sheet as capitalised pension surplus and CHF 57.7 million as employee benefit obligation. For further information on employee benefit obligation, see note 47.

Income taxes

Arbonia is subject to income taxes in numerous jurisdictions. Significant judgment is required in determining the worldwide provision for income taxes. There are many transactions and calculations for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain during the ordinary course of business. Arbonia recognises liabilities for anticipated tax audit issues based on estimates of whether additional taxes will become due. Where the final tax outcome of these matters is different from the amounts that were initially recorded, such differences will impact the income tax and deferred tax provisions in the period in which such determination is made. Deferred tax assets, including those on tax loss carryforwards and expected tax credits, are only recognised if it is probable that they can be used by future taxable profits. The assessment of the recoverability of those deferred tax assets is therefore based on estimates, which could differ from actual results and consequently lead to valuation allowances. As of 31 December 2020, the carrying amount of deferred tax assets before offsetting totalled CHF 31.9 million. For further information on income taxes, see notes 46 and 52.

31Segment information

Arbonia is organised into the divisions or segments HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning), Sanitary Equipment, Windows and Doors. Corporate Services consist of service, finance, real estate and investment companies and provide their services almost entirely to Group companies. They have not been allocated to an operating segment and are therefore shown separately.

For the monitoring and assessment of the financial performance, EBITDA, EBITA and EBIT are pivotal key measures. However, Group Management and the Board of Directors also are provided with financial data down to the line item "result after income tax" by operating segment. The segments apply the same accounting policies as the Group. Purchases, sales and services between segments are entered into under normal commercial terms and conditions that would also be available to unrelated third parties. Income and expenses between segments are eliminated on consolidation and disclosed in "Eliminations".

Segment assets and liabilities include all assets, liabilities and intercompany transactions. Goodwill has been allocated to the respective segments.

HVAC Division

The Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Division is a leading and highly integrated provider to the industry. Under the main brands – Kermi, Arbonia, Prolux, Sabiana, Vasco, Superia and Brugman – it sells its wide product range across Europe. Production takes place in Germany, the Czech Republic, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, Poland and Russia. On an international scale, the division has its own distribution companies in Switzerland, France, Spain, Great Britain, Denmark and China.

Sanitary Equipment Division

The Sanitary Equipment Division is one of the leading providers of shower solutions in Europe and markets the Kermi, Koralle, Bekon-Koralle and Baduscho brands in its target markets through its own distribution networks and dealer structures. Production takes place in Germany and Switzerland.

Windows Division

The Windows Division with the brands EgoKiefer, Slovaktual, Dobroplast and Wertbau is one of the largest international European window and door manufacturers. The division develops, produces, assembles and sells a full range of windows and exterior doors. The products are made of materials such as wood, synthetics and aluminium and are manufactured in own plants in Slovakia, Poland, Germany and Switzerland.

On 4 January 2021, a contract was signed between Arbonia and the Danish DOVISTA Group for the sale of the windows business. The closing of the transaction is expected in the second quarter of 2021 (see note 36).

Doors Division

The Doors Division owns the brands RWD Schlatter, Prüm, Garant, Invado and TPO. RWD Schlatter is specialized in the production of special wooden doors for interiors. Prüm and Garant are among the leading manufacturers of interior doors and door frames in Europe and Invado to the leading suppliers of interior doors and door frames in Poland. The products are developed and produced in Switzerland, Germany and Poland.

Corporate Services

Corporate Services consists of service, finance, real estate and investment companies and provide their services almost entirely to Group companies.

In the Windows Division, the impairment mainly relates to machinery of the plant in Altstätten resulting from the closure and thus decommissioning of production machinery.

In the HVAC Division, impairment property, plant and equipment mainly includes an impairment of machinery, as a specific production process was outsourced and therefore these machines can no longer be used. In the Windows Division, the impairment relates to machinery of the plant in Altstätten resulting from the closure and thus decommissioning of production machinery.

The consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with IFRS 5 "Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations" and the related disclosures and adjustments of certain prior-year figures. The above-mentioned segment information however follows internal management reporting, which is why the discontinued operations per note 36 consisting of Windows Division are also included.

The reconciliation of the continuing and discontinued operations on the segment information is presented as follows:

Information about geographical areas

Major customers

Arbonia has no customer who generates more than 10% of the Group’s net revenues (see also paragraph credit default risk in note 53).

32Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents are denominated in the following currencies:

The effective interest on bank deposits is 0.0% (2019: 0.0%).

33Accounts receivable/ contract balances

Accounts receivable

The allowance for accounts receivable includes expected credit losses and cash discounts.

The ageing analysis is as follows:

Outstanding accounts receivable amounting to CHF 38.0 million (2019: CHF 18.5 million) were secured and mainly consist of credit insurances. No allowances are made on the secured receivables.

The expected credit losses on accounts receivable developed as follows:

The expected credit losses were determined taking into account the current conditions and economic consequences of the coronavirus pandemic. Against this background, the assessment of credit losses focused on current conditions and future forecasts (in particular the future financial performance of the contracting party). The available collateral (e.g. credit insurance) were also included in the assessment. On the basis of these analyses, there was overall no significantly higher assessment of the credit default risk for the group companies.

Since February 2010 Arbonia sells receivables under a factoring agreement. Because Arbonia neither transfers nor retains substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership and still retains control, the receivables have to be recorded in the balance sheet to the extent of the so-called continuing involvement. In particular the late payment risk is completely retained by Arbonia up until a certain point in time. As of 31 December 2020 the book value of the transferred receivables amounted to CHF 16.4 million (2019: CHF 13.6 million). Thereof Arbonia already received from the factor CHF 14.7 million (2019: CHF 11.9 million) of cash and the difference of CHF 1.8 million (2019: CHF 1.7 million) is disclosed as other current assets against the factor. In addition, in other current assets an amount of CHF 0.2 million (2019: CHF 0.2 million) and in other liabilities an amount of CHF 0.2 million (2019: CHF 0.2 million) are recorded for the consideration of the continuing involvement. In 2020 there was no gain realised for the continuing involvement, the cumulative loss since the inception of the factoring agreement amounts to CHF 0.02 million.

Contract balances

The contract balances project business result from Arbonia's longer-term contracts. Revenues recognised over the term of a contract are shown as contract assets. Contract assets are presented on a net contract-by-contract basis, e.g. less the received partial payments. As soon as the acceptance protocol is signed, the final invoice is issued and the items are transferred to accounts receivable.

The movement in the contract assets is as follows:

The contract liabilities project business relate to contracts whose partial payments exceed the stage of completion. Contract liabilities are recognised as revenue when the contractual performance obligation has been satisfied. The movement in the contract liabilities project business is as follows:

In 2020, there were no known default risks and therefore no need for specific allowances on contract assets. The expected credit losses are estimated to be insignificant and therefore no allowance was made.

There have been no general changes in the timeframe until an enforceable right for consideration or a performance obligation is fulfilled.

The expected revenues to be recognised on the current order backlog are as follows:

These amounts only include contracts of project business with an expected original duration of more than one year.

34Inventories

A provision of CHF 20.0 million (2019: CHF 21.6 million) has been provided for obsolete and slow-moving items and is deducted from inventories. 2020 and 2019, there are no inventories written down to the net realisable value and no write-downs to net realisable value were recorded.

35Financial assets

In April 2020, Arbonia increased its minority interest in the German company KIWI-KI GmbH, DE-Berlin, acquired in 2018, to over 20%. The purchase price amounted to CHF 4.9 million, of which CHF 1.6 million was offset against the convertible loan granted in October 2019. The cash outflow of CHF 3.3 million is included in the consolidated statement of cash flows in the position issuance of financial assets.

As of 12 September 2018, Arbonia had acquired a minority share of the German KIWI-KI GmbH, DE-Berlin. The purchase price amounted to CHF 3.7 million. The company develops keyless entry systems for house and apartment doors.

Associated companies

Due to the acquisition of the remaining 65% share in Webcom Management Holding GmbH in December 2020, the company will be fully consolidated as of the end of the 2020 financial year (see note 41). As of 30 March 2017, Arbonia had acquired a 35% minority share of this German online windows dealer through payment of CHF 2.4 million.

Subsequently, the financial information of these associated companies is disclosed in condensed form.

Associated companies – Balance sheet

The balance sheet as of 31 December 2020 includes KIWI-KI GmbH, whereas the previous year shows Webcom.

Associated companies – Income statement

The income statement for 2020 and 2019 includes Webcom, whereas KIWI-KI GmbH has only been included in the income statement since the increase of the investment to over 20% in April 2020.

Business transactions with associated companies

Loans

At the beginning of October 2019, KIWI-KI GmbH was granted an interest-bearing convertible loan of EUR 1.5 million, repayable by the end of February 2020. The loan was converted into shares at a predetermined share value on the occasion of the financing round successfully carried out in April 2020.

In July 2018, Arbonia AG granted Arbonia Vorsorge an interest-bearing and repayable loan of CHF 10 million. The loan was repaid in full in the first half of 2019.

The ageing analysis for loans was as follows for 2019:

Activity in the impairment of loans account, which is disclosed in the income statement under financial results, is as follows:

The impairment of loans of CHF 3.0 million which originated from the sale of the kitchen division in 2014, was derecognised in the reporting year. The recovery or partial recovery of the claim from the insolvency proceedings that have been ongoing for years is estimated to be low.

36Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations

On 4 January 2021, a contract was signed between Arbonia and the Danish DOVISTA Group for the sale of the windows business. The closing of the transaction is expected in the second quarter of 2021. In accordance with IFRS 5, Arbonia reports the business unit windows as of 31 December 2020 as discontinued operations. All prior-year figures in the income statement and the accompanying notes have been adjusted accordingly. In the consolidated balance sheet as of 31 December 2020, assets and liabilities of the discontinued operations windows are disclosed in the respective held for sale asset and liability positions. Previous year's figures in the balance sheet, however, were not adjusted.

In 2020, the production property in Belgium was sold. The cash inflow of CHF 7.2 million is included in the consolidated statement of cash flows under proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment. The sale of the investment property in Germany, which was reclassified in the previous year, could not yet be completed in 2020 as expected; the sale is now expected in the first half of 2021.

Assets held for sale and discontinued operations

Liabilities associated with assets held for sale and discontinued operations

Result from discontinued operations

The results for the reporting period comprise sales costs for the disposal of the business unit windows of CHF 0.8 million.

In the consolidated cash flow statement, the cash flows from the discontinued operations are included, however, subsequently condensed and shown separately below.

Cash flow from discontinued operations

37Property, plant and equipment

In 2019, land and buildings and plant and machinery included capitalised borrowing costs in the amount of CHF 2.0 million. No borrowing costs were capitalised in 2020.

Capital commitments

As of the balance sheet date, Arbonia had entered into the following capital commitments for the purchase of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets:

Land and buildings amounting to CHF 50.8 milion (2019: CHF 51.0 million) are pledged to secure mortgages.

38Leasing

Arbonia leases various assets, including buildings, machinery, vehicles, tools and IT equipment. The lease conditions are negotiated individually and contain a variety of different conditions. The rights-of-use assets in connection with these leases are as follows:

Other operating expenses include the following expenses in connection with leases:

1 see note 36

Total cash outflows for leases amounted to CHF 20.2 million in 2020 (2019: CHF 21.0 million). Of this amount, CHF 14.3 million (2019: CHF 14.8 million) was attributable to continuing operations.

Some of Arbonia's rental leases include renewal options. The determination of the lease term of these leases requires judgement. The assessment of whether it is reasonably certain to exercise such options impacts the lease term, which significantly affects the amount of lease liabilities and right-of-use assets recognised. In its assessment, Arbonia considers the facts and circumstances that create an economic incentive to exercise such options. The assessment is reviewed if a significant event or a significant change in circumstances occurs. As of 31 December 2020, possible future cash outflows of CHF 1.2 million (2019: CHF 1.8 million) were not included in the lease liability as it is not reasonably certain that the lease agreements will be renewed.

39Investment property

In 2020, an investment property in Switzerland was sold, resulting in a sales gain of CHF 2.1 million. The net cash inflow of CHF 4.9 million is included in the consolidated statement of cash flows under proceeds from sale of investment properties.

Rental income from investment properties amounted to CHF 1.3 million (2019: CHF 1.6 million) and is included in other operating income. Related direct operating expenses were CHF 0.1 million (2019: CHF 0.3 million) and are included in other operating expenses. The fair values of investment properties are, in the hierarchy according to IFRS 13, assigned to level 3 for non-observable market data, since they are calculated on the basis of estimates that have been determined by independent external valuers and internal assessments.

40Intangible assets

Expenses for research and development in the amount of CHF 16.3 million (2019: CHF 15.3 million) have been charged to the income statement, since they did not fulfil the capitalisation criteria. Of this amount, CHF 13.3 million (2019: CHF 12.1 million) was attributable to continuing operations. The additions to intangible assets consist of CHF 0.6 million (2019: CHF 0.3 million) of own development costs and CHF 2.7 million (2019: CHF 3.1 million) of purchased or acquired items.

Goodwill

As of 31 December 2020 goodwill from business combinations is allocated to the Group’s five cash-generating units (CGUs) Doors, Sanitary, Wertbau, Sabiana and Slovaktual.

The movements of the carrying amounts of goodwill during the reporting period were as follows:

Goodwill impairment tests 2020

The recoverability of goodwill is assessed annually towards year-end or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of its value in use and its fair value less costs to sell.

The recoverable amount of the CGUs was determined based on value in use calculations. These calculations used cash flow projections covering a five-year period. Cash flows beyond the five-year period were extrapolated using estimated growth rates. The underlying financial data consisting of one budget year and four plan years form part of the Group’s medium term plan approved by the Board of Directors in autumn 2020 and were used for the impairment tests.

The value in use calculation for the annual 2020 impairment tests assumed the following key assumptions:

Budgeted gross margins are based on expectations for the market development and initiated optimisation measures. The growth rates used are consistent with the forecasts included in industry reports. The discount rates used are pre-tax and reflect specific risks relating to the relevant CGUs.

Based on a reasonably possible change in the key assumptions, sensitivity analyses were calculated in 2020 on higher discount rates, lower than actually expected EBITDAs, lower gross margins and lower growth rates which only led to a possible impairment at the CGU Doors.

A reduction in the budgeted gross margin from 57.1% to 55.1% would result in an impairment of the CGU Doors amounting to CHF 48.6 million. At a budgeted gross margin of 56.1%, the recoverable amount was equal to their carrying amount. A 10% reduction in EBITDA and a simultaneous reduction of eternal growth from 1.6% to 1.1% would lead to an impairment of CHF 43.6 million. At a reduction of 5.3% in EBITDA and a simultaneous reduction of eternal growth to 1.3%, the recoverable amount was equal to their carrying amount.

Goodwill impairment tests 2019

The value in use calculation for the annual 2019 impairment tests assumed the following key assumptions:

Budgeted gross margins were determined based on expectations for the market development and initiated optimisation measures. The growth rates used were consistent with the forecasts included in industry reports. The discount rates used were pre-tax and reflected specific risks relating to the relevant CGUs.

Based on a reasonably possible change in the key assumptions, sensitivity analyses were calculated in 2019 on higher discount rates, lower than actually expected EBITDAs, lower gross margins and lower growth rates which only led to a possible impairment at the CGU Doors.

A reduction in the budgeted gross margin from 56.2% to 54.2% would have resulted in an impairment of the CGU Doors amounting to CHF 48.1 million. At a budgeted gross margin of 55.1%, the recoverable amount would have been equal to their carrying amount. A 10% reduction in EBITDA and a simultaneous reduction of eternal growth from 1.7% to 1.2% would have led to an impairment of CHF 31.2 million. At a reduction of 7.2% in EBITDA and a simultaneous reduction of eternal growth to 1.4%, the recoverable amount would have been equal to their carrying amount.

41Acquisitions

The following fair value of assets and liabilities had arisen from acquisitions in 2020 as mentioned under note 3:

Webcom