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GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING CO - Quarter Report: 2015 March (Form 10-Q)

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UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

þ
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015
or
o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934


For the transition period from to

COMMISSION FILE NUMBER: 001-33988

Graphic Packaging Holding Company

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
26-0405422
(State or other jurisdiction of
(I.R.S. employer
incorporation or organization)
identification no.)
 
 
1500 Riveredge Parkway, Suite 100
 
Atlanta, Georgia
30328
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)

(770) 240-7200
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes R No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes R No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer R
Accelerated filer o
Non-accelerated filer o
Smaller reporting company o
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No R

As of April 21, 2015, there were 328,923,121 shares of the registrant’s Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, outstanding.

 



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Information Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements regarding the expectations of Graphic Packaging Holding Company (“GPHC” and, together with its subsidiaries, the “Company”), including, but not limited to, statements regarding the availability of net operating losses to offset U.S. federal income taxes, capital investment, costs to comply with certain environmental regulations, available cash and liquidity, depreciation and amortization, interest expense, pension expense and pension plan contributions and postretirement health care benefit payments, in this report constitute “forward-looking statements” as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are based on currently available operating, financial and competitive information and are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s historical experience and its present expectations. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, inflation of and volatility in raw material and energy costs, changes in consumer buying habits and product preferences, competition with other paperboard manufacturers and product substitution, the Company’s ability to implement its business strategies, including strategic acquisitions, productivity initiatives and cost reduction plans, the Company’s debt level, currency movements and other risks of conducting business internationally, and the impact of regulatory and litigation matters, including those that could impact the Company’s ability to utilize its net operating losses to offset taxable income and those that impact the Company's ability to protect and use its intellectual property. Undue reliance should not be placed on such forward-looking statements, as such statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and the Company undertakes no obligation to update such statements. Additional information regarding these and other risks is contained in Part I, “Item 1A., Risk Factors” of the Company’s 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K, and in other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

EX-31.1
 
EX-31.2
 
EX-32.1
 
EX-32.2
 
XBRL Content
 



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PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Unaudited)

 
Three Months Ended
 
March 31,
In millions, except per share amounts
2015
 
2014
Net Sales
$
1,008.2

 
$
1,072.7

Cost of Sales
818.6

 
885.7

Selling, General and Administrative
85.4

 
100.9

Other Income, Net
(3.3
)
 
(1.4
)
Restructuring and Other Special Charges
2.2

 
7.8

Income from Operations
105.3

 
79.7

Interest Expense, Net
(16.9
)
 
(20.4
)
Income before Income Taxes and Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entity
88.4

 
59.3

Income Tax Expense
(33.6
)
 
(24.8
)
Income before Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entity
54.8

 
34.5

Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entities
0.3

 
0.3

Net Income
55.1

 
34.8

Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests

 
0.4

Net Income Attributable to Graphic Packaging Holding Company
$
55.1

 
$
35.2

 
 
 
 
Net Income Per Share Attributable to Graphic Packaging Holding Company — Basic
$
0.17


$
0.11

Net Income Per Share Attributable to Graphic Packaging Holding Company — Diluted
$
0.17


$
0.11

Cash Dividends Declared
$
0.05

 
$


The accompanying notes are an integral part of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.


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GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Unaudited)


 
Three Months Ended
 
March 31,
In millions
2015
2014
Net Income
$
55.1

$
34.8

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax:
 
 
Derivative Instruments
0.5


Currency Translation Adjustment
(20.1
)
4.4

Pension Benefit Plans
3.5

2.1

Postretirement Benefit Plans
(0.3
)
(2.4
)
Total Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income, Net of Tax
(16.4
)
4.1

Total Comprehensive Income
38.7

38.9

Comprehensive Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests

0.3

Comprehensive Income Attributable to Graphic Packaging Holding Company
$
38.7

$
39.2


The accompanying notes are an integral part of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

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GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited)
In millions, except share and per share amounts
March 31,
2015

December 31, 2014
ASSETS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current Assets:
 
 
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
$
43.4

 
$
81.6

Receivables, Net
483.1

 
408.3

Inventories, Net
563.3

 
521.8

Deferred Income Tax Assets
179.4

 
177.2

Other Current Assets
43.5

 
32.0

Total Current Assets
1,312.7

 
1,220.9

Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
1,562.2

 
1,546.8

Goodwill
1,176.8

 
1,118.1

Intangible Assets, Net
378.8

 
385.6

Other Assets
62.8

 
59.9

Total Assets
$
4,493.3

 
$
4,331.3

 
 
 
 
LIABILITIES
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current Liabilities:
 
 
 
Short-Term Debt and Current Portion of Long-Term Debt
$
35.0

 
$
32.2

Accounts Payable
435.4

 
424.9

Compensation and Employee Benefits
99.1

 
118.6

Interest Payable
16.4

 
9.4

Other Accrued Liabilities
91.3

 
91.6

Total Current Liabilities
677.2

 
676.7

Long-Term Debt
2,070.9

 
1,942.1

Deferred Income Tax Liabilities
345.3

 
309.3

Accrued Pension and Postretirement Benefits
302.1

 
312.8

Other Noncurrent Liabilities
83.7

 
78.1

 

 
 
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
 
 
Preferred Stock, par value $.01 per share; 100,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued or outstanding

 

Common Stock, par value $.01 per share; 1,000,000,000 shares authorized; 328,835,698 and 327,044,500 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively
3.3

 
3.3

Capital in Excess of Par Value
1,778.6

 
1,796.5

Accumulated Deficit
(416.8
)
 
(452.9
)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
(351.0
)
 
(334.6
)
Total Shareholders' Equity
1,014.1

 
1,012.3

Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
$
4,493.3

 
$
4,331.3


The accompanying notes are an integral part of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.


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GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)

 
Three Months Ended
 
March 31,
In millions
2015
 
2014
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
Net Income
$
55.1

 
$
34.8

Non-cash Items Included in Net Income:
 
 
 
Depreciation and Amortization
68.1

 
67.0

Deferred Income Taxes
29.9

 
23.2

Amount of Postretirement Expense (Less) Greater Than Funding
(8.1
)
 
0.5

Loss on the Sale of Assets

 
5.9

Other, Net
10.7

 
13.2

Changes in Operating Assets and Liabilities
(128.0
)
 
(114.7
)
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities
27.7

 
29.9

 
 
 
 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
Capital Spending
(60.7
)
 
(59.3
)
Acquisition of Businesses, Net of cash acquired
(116.6
)
 

Proceeds Received from the Sale of Assets, Net of Selling Costs

 
70.7

Other, Net
(0.1
)
 
(0.5
)
Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities
(177.4
)
 
10.9

 
 
 
 
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
Repurchase of Common Stock
(4.0
)
 

Payments on Debt
(6.3
)
 
(15.4
)
Borrowings under Revolving Credit Facilities
396.7

 
267.3

Payments on Revolving Credit Facilities
(251.3
)
 
(294.2
)
Repurchase of Common Stock related to Share-Based Payments
(20.1
)
 
(15.8
)
Other, Net

 
(0.5
)
Net Cash Provided by (Used In) Financing Activities
115.0

 
(58.6
)
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash
(3.5
)
 
0.3

Net Decrease in Cash and Cash Equivalents
(38.2
)
 
(17.5
)
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period
81.6

 
52.2

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD
$
43.4

 
$
34.7




Supplemental non-cash investing activities:
Total Consideration Received from the Sale of Assets, Net of Selling Costs
$

$
78.8

Cash Proceeds Received from the Sale of Assets, Net of Selling Costs

70.7

Non-cash Consideration Received from the Sale of Assets, Net of Selling Costs
$

$
8.1


The accompanying notes are an integral part of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

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GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)





NOTE 1 — GENERAL INFORMATION

Nature of Business and Basis of Presentation

Graphic Packaging Holding Company (“GPHC” and, together with its subsidiaries, the “Company”) is committed to providing consumer packaging that makes a world of difference. The Company is a leading provider of paper-based packaging solutions for a wide variety of products to food, beverage and other consumer products companies. The Company operates on a global basis and is the largest producer of folding cartons in the United States ("U.S.") and holds leading market positions in coated unbleached kraft paperboard and coated-recycled paperboard.

The Company’s customers include many of the world’s most widely recognized companies and brands with prominent market positions in beverage, food and other consumer products. The Company strives to provide its customers with packaging solutions designed to deliver marketing and performance benefits at a competitive cost by capitalizing on its low-cost paperboard mills and converting plants, its proprietary carton and packaging designs, and its commitment to quality and service.

GPHC and Graphic Packaging Corporation (“GPC”) conduct no significant business and have no independent assets or operations other than GPHC’s ownership of all of GPC’s outstanding common stock, and GPC’s ownership of all of the outstanding common stock of Graphic Packaging International, Inc. (“GPII”).

The Company’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include all subsidiaries in which the Company has the ability to exercise direct or indirect control over operating and financial policies. Intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation.

In the Company’s opinion, the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements contain all normal recurring adjustments necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the interim periods. The Company’s year end Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet data was derived from audited financial statements. The accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X and do not include all the information required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) for complete financial statements. Therefore, these Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with GPHC’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. In addition, the preparation of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual amounts could differ from those estimates and changes in these estimates are recorded when known.

For a summary of the Company’s significant accounting policies, please refer to GPHC’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.

Accounts Receivable and Allowances

The Company has entered into an agreement for the purchasing and servicing of receivables (the "AR Sales Agreement"), to sell, on a revolving basis, certain trade accounts receivable balances to a third party financial institution. Transfers under this agreement meet the requirements to be accounted for as sales in accordance with the Transfers and Servicing topic of the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification (the "Codification"). During the first quarter of 2015, the Company sold and derecognized approximately $173 million of receivables, of which $142 million has been collected on behalf of the financial institution, $15 million has been funded by the financial institution, resulting in a $48 million receivable from the financial institution as of March 31, 2015. Cash proceeds related to the sales are included in cash from operating activities in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in the Changes in Operating Assets and Liabilities line item. The loss on sale is not material and is included in Other Income, Net line item on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations.

The Company has also entered into various factoring and supply chain financing arrangements, principally at the request of customers, which also qualify for sale accounting in accordance with the Transfers and Servicing topic of the FASB Codification. For the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company sold receivables of approximately $81 million and $75 million from these factoring arrangements, respectively.

Amounts transferred subject to continuing involvement, which consist principally of collection services, at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, was approximately $140 million and $127 million, respectively.

Capital Allocation Plan

On February 4, 2015, the Company's board of directors authorized a share repurchase program to allow management to purchase up to $250 million of the Company's issued and outstanding shares of common stock through open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions and Rule 10b5-1 plans. The Company repurchased 279,328 shares at an average price of $14.30 during the quarter ending March 31, 2015.



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Also, on February 4, 2015, the Company's board of directors declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.05 per share of common stock payable on April 5, 2015 to shareholders of record as of March 15, 2015.

Restructuring and Other Special Charges

The following table summarizes the transactions recorded in Restructuring and Other Special Charges in the Consolidated Statements of Operations:
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
March 31,
In millions
 
2015
 
2014
Loss on Sale of Assets
 
$

 
$
5.9

Charges Associated with Business Combinations
 
1.0

 
1.6

Other Special Charges
 
1.2

 
0.3

Total
 
$
2.2

 
$
7.8


On February 4, 2015, the Company completed its acquisition of certain assets of Cascades Norampac Division ("Cascades"). On January 2, 2015, the Company completed its acquisition of Rose City Printing and Packaging, Inc. ("Rose City"). Charges associated with these acquisitions are reflected in Charges Associated with Business Combinations in the above table. For more information regarding these acquisitions see Note 3 - Acquisitions.

On February 3, 2014, the Company completed the sale of its label business. The financial impact of this transaction is reflected in Loss on Sale of Assets in the above table.


Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted

On April 7, 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2015-03, Interest-Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. The amendments in this ASU require that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. The amendments in this ASU are effective for the financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within the fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted for financial statements that have not been previously issued. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adoption on the Company's financial position.

On May 28, 2014, the FASB issued No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. Adoption of ASU No. 2014-09 requires that an entity recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The amendments in this ASU are effective for the annual reporting period beginning after December 15, 2016 and early adoption is not permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adoption on the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

On June 19, 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-12, Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period. The amendments in the ASU clarify the proper method of accounting for share-based payments when the terms of an award provide that a performance target could be achieved after the requisite service period. ASU 2014-12 is effective for all entities for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and interim period within those annual periods and early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adoption on the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows.



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NOTE 2 — INVENTORIES, NET

Inventories, Net by major class:
In millions
March 31, 2015
 
December 31, 2014
Finished Goods
$
290.5

 
$
260.2

Work in Progress
51.8

 
52.9

Raw Materials
148.1

 
139.0

Supplies
72.9

 
69.7

Total
$
563.3

 
$
521.8



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NOTE 3 — ACQUISITIONS

On February 4, 2015, the Company completed the acquisition of certain assets of Cascades in Canada. Cascades operated three folding carton converting facilities located in Cobourg, Ontario, Mississauga, Ontario and Winnipeg, Manitoba along with a thermo mechanical pulp mill located in Jonquiere, Quebec and a coated recycled board mill located in East Angus, Quebec.

On January 2, 2015, the Company acquired Rose City through the purchase of all of the issued and outstanding stock of its parent company, Rose City Holding Company. Rose City services food and beverage end markets and operates two folding carton converting facilities located in Gresham, OR and Vancouver, WA. The Cascades and Rose City transactions are referred to collectively as the "North American Acquisitions."

The Company paid approximately $118 million for the North America Acquisitions using existing cash and borrowings under its revolving line of credit. The acquisition accounting for the North American Acquisitions has been preliminarily allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on the estimated fair values as of the purchase dates and is subject to adjustments in subsequent periods once the third party valuations are completed. Management believes that the purchase price attributable to goodwill represents the benefits expected as the acquisitions were made to continue to grow the North American food and beverage business, integrate paperboard from the Company's mills and to further optimize the Company's supply chain footprint.

The Company expects that a portion of any goodwill attributable to the Cascades acquisition may be deductible for tax purposes. The preliminary acquisition accounting allocation is as follows:

 
 
 
 
 
 
In millions
Amounts Recognized as of Acquisition Dates
 
Measurement Period Adjustments
 
Amounts Recognized as of Acquisition Dates (as adjusted)
Purchase Price
$
117.6

 
$

 
$
117.6

 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
$
1.0

 
$

 
$
1.0

Receivables, Net
24.6

 

 
24.6

Inventories, Net
35.5

 
(8.2
)
 
27.3

Other Current Assets
1.3

 

 
1.3

Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
50.2

 
(21.8
)
 
28.4

Pension Asset
2.5


0.9


3.4

Other Assets
7.7

 

 
7.7

  Total Assets Acquired
122.8

 
(29.1
)
 
93.7

Current Liabilities
25.3

 

 
25.3

Pension and Postretirement Benefits
5.7

 
(0.4
)
 
5.3

Deferred Tax Liabilities
5.1

 

 
5.1

Other Noncurrent Liabilities
2.1

 

 
2.1

  Total Liabilities Assumed
38.2

 
(0.4
)
 
37.8

  Net Assets Acquired
84.6

 
(28.7
)
 
55.9

Goodwill
33.0

 
28.7

 
61.7

  Total Estimated Fair Value of Net Assets Acquired
$
117.6

 
$

 
$
117.6


On May 23, 2014, the Company acquired the Benson Group, a leading food, retail and health care packaging company in the United Kingdom. Under the terms of the transaction, the Company paid $190.7 million in an all cash transaction funded with existing cash and borrowings under the Company's revolving line of credit. Benson operated four folding carton facilities that converted approximately 80,000 tons of paperboard annually into folding cartons for the food, beverage and healthcare products industries.





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GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)




NOTE 4 — DEBT


For more information regarding the Company’s debt, see “Note 5 Debt” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company’s 2014 Form 10-K.

Long-Term Debt is composed of the following:
In millions
March 31, 2015
 
December 31, 2014
Senior Notes with interest payable semi-annually at 4.875%, payable in 2022
$
250.0

 
$
250.0

Senior Notes with interest payable semi-annually at 4.75%, payable in 2021
425.0

 
425.0

Senior Secured Term Loan Facilities with interest payable at various dates at floating rates (1.7% at March 31, 2015) payable through 2019
993.8

 
1,000.0

Senior Secured Revolving Facilities with interest payable at floating rates (1.8% at March 31, 2015) payable in 2019
424.1

 
288.4

Capital Lease Obligations
3.1

 
3.1

Other
9.9

 
7.8

Total Debt
2,105.9

 
1,974.3

Less: Short-Term Debt and Current Portion of Long-Term Debt
35.0

 
32.2

Total Long-Term Debt
$
2,070.9

 
$
1,942.1



At March 31, 2015, the Company and its U.S. and international subsidiaries had the following commitments, amounts outstanding and amounts available under revolving credit facilities:
In millions
Total
Commitments
 
Total
Outstanding
 
Total Available
Senior Secured Domestic Revolving Credit Facility(a)
$
1,250.0

 
$
323.0

 
$
900.1

Senior Secured International Revolving Credit Facility
168.9

 
101.1


67.8

Other International Facilities
30.4

 
9.9

 
20.5

Total
$
1,449.3

 
$
434.0

 
$
988.4



(a)
In accordance with its debt agreements, the Company’s availability under its revolving credit facilities has been reduced by the amount of standby letters of credit issued of $26.9 million as of March 31, 2015. These letters of credit are used primarily as security against its self-insurance obligations and workers’ compensation obligations. These letters of credit expire at various dates through late-2015 unless extended.

The Credit Agreement and the indentures governing the 4.75% Senior Notes due 2021 and 4.875% Senior Notes due 2022 (the “Indentures”) limit the Company’s ability to incur additional indebtedness. Additional covenants contained in the Credit Agreement and the Indentures, among other things, restrict the ability of the Company to dispose of assets, incur guarantee obligations, prepay other indebtedness, make dividend and other restricted payments, create liens, make equity or debt investments, make acquisitions, modify terms of the Indenture, engage in mergers or consolidations, change the business conducted by the Company and its subsidiaries, and engage in certain transactions with affiliates. Such restrictions could limit the Company’s ability to respond to changing market conditions, fund its capital spending program, provide for unexpected capital investments or take advantage of business opportunities.

Under the terms of the Credit Agreement, the Company must comply with a maximum consolidated total leverage ratio and a minimum consolidated interest coverage ratio. The Company's obligations under the Credit Agreement are secured by substantially all of the Company's domestic assets.

As of March 31, 2015, the Company was in compliance with the covenants in the Credit Agreement and the Indentures.


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NOTE 5 — STOCK INCENTIVE PLANS

As of May 21, 2014, the Company has one active equity compensation plan from which new grants may be made, the Graphic Packaging Holding Company 2014 Omnibus Stock and Incentive Compensation Plan (the “2014 Plan”). Awards granted under the 2014 Plan generally vest and expire in accordance with terms established at the time of grant. Shares issued pursuant to awards under the 2014 Plan are from the Company’s authorized but unissued shares. Compensation costs are recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the award.

Stock Awards, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units

The Company’s 2014 Plan permits the grant of stock awards, restricted stock and restricted stock units (“RSUs”). Generally, all RSUs vest and become payable in three years from date of grant. RSUs granted to employees generally contain performance conditions based on various financial targets and service requirements that must be met for the shares to vest. Upon vesting, RSUs are payable in shares of common stock. Stock awards granted to non-employee directors as part of their compensation for service on the Board are unrestricted on the grant date.

Data concerning RSUs granted in the first three months of 2015 is as follows:
 
Shares
 
Weighted Average
Grant Date Fair
Value Per Share
RSUs — Employees
1,661,106

 
$
13.28


During the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, $3.7 million and $4.1 million, respectively, were charged to compensation expense for stock incentive plans.

During the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, approximately 2.1 million and 2.2 million shares were issued, respectively. The shares issued were primarily related to RSUs granted during 2012 and 2011, respectively.




NOTE 6 — PENSIONS AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS

The Company maintains both defined benefit pension plans and postretirement health care plans that provide medical and life insurance coverage to eligible salaried and hourly retired employees in North America and their dependents. The Company maintains international defined benefit pension plans which are either noncontributory or contributory and are funded in accordance with applicable local laws. Pension or termination benefits are based primarily on years of service and the employee's compensation.

Pension and Postretirement Expense

The pension and postretirement expenses related to the Company’s plans consisted of the following:

 
Pension Benefits
 
Postretirement Health Care Benefits
 
Three Months Ended
 
Three Months Ended
 
March 31,
 
March 31,
In millions
2015
 
2014
 
2015
 
2014
Components of Net Periodic Cost:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service Cost
$
3.8

 
$
3.7

 
$
0.2

 
$
0.3

Interest Cost
13.4

 
14.5

 
0.4

 
0.6

Administrative Expenses
0.2

 
0.2

 

 

Expected Return on Plan Assets
(18.5
)
 
(20.0
)
 

 

Amortization:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Prior Service Cost (Credit)
0.2

 
0.1

 
(0.1
)
 
(0.1
)
Actuarial Loss (Gain)
5.5

 
3.0

 
(0.4
)
 
(0.3
)
Net Periodic Cost
$
4.6

 
$
1.5

 
$
0.1

 
$
0.5






14

Table of Contents
GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)



Employer Contributions

The Company made contributions of $12.3 million and $0.8 million to its pension plans during the first three months of 2015 and 2014, respectively. The Company expects to make contributions of $40 million to $60 million for the full year 2015. During 2014, the Company made $52.2 million of contributions to its pension plans.

The Company made postretirement health care benefit payments of $0.5 million and $0.7 million during the first three months of 2015 and 2014, respectively. The Company estimates its postretirement health care benefit payments for the full year 2015 to be approximately $3 million. During 2014, the Company made postretirement health care benefit payments of $2.2 million.


NOTE 7 — FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT

The Company enters into derivative instruments for risk management purposes only, including derivatives designated as hedging instruments under the Derivatives and Hedging topic of the FASB Codification and those not designated as hedging instruments under this guidance. The Company uses interest rate swaps, natural gas swap contracts, and forward exchange contracts. These derivative instruments are designated as cash flow hedges and, to the extent they are effective in offsetting the variability of the hedged cash flows, changes in the derivatives’ fair value are not included in current earnings but are included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. These changes in fair value will subsequently be reclassified to earnings.

For more information regarding the Company’s financial instruments and fair value measurement, see “Note 9 — Financial Instruments, Derivatives and Hedging Activities” and Note 10 — Fair Value Measurement” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company’s 2014 Form 10-K.


Interest Rate Risk

The Company uses interest rate swaps to manage interest rate risks on future interest payments caused by interest rate changes on its variable rate term loan facility. The differential to be paid or received under these agreements is recognized as an adjustment to Interest Expense related to debt. At March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, the Company had interest rate swap agreements outstanding with a notional amount of $560 million. The swap agreements, under which the Company will pay fixed rates of 0.45% to 0.82% and receive one-month LIBOR rates, expire in April 2016.

Changes in fair value will subsequently be reclassified into earnings as a component of Interest Expense, Net as interest is incurred on amounts outstanding under the term loan facility. Ineffectiveness measured in the hedging relationship is recorded in earnings in the period it occurs.

During the first three months of 2015 and 2014, there were minimal amounts of ineffectiveness related to changes in the fair value of interest rate swap agreements. Additionally, there were no amounts excluded from the measure of effectiveness.

Commodity Risk

To manage risks associated with future variability in cash flows and price risk attributable to certain commodity purchases, the Company enters into natural gas swap contracts to hedge prices for a designated percentage of its expected natural gas usage. Such contracts are designated as cash flow hedges. The contracts are carried at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, and the resulting gain or loss is reclassified into Cost of Sales concurrently with the recognition of the commodity consumed and the ineffective portion of the swap contracts’ change in fair value would be recognized immediately in earnings. The Company has hedged 75% and 65% of its expected natural gas usage for the remainder of 2015 and 2016, respectively.

During the first three months of 2015 and 2014, there were minimal amounts of ineffectiveness related to changes in the fair value of natural gas swap contracts. Additionally, there were no amounts excluded from the measure of effectiveness.

Foreign Currency Risk

The Company enters into forward exchange contracts to manage risks associated with future variability in cash flows resulting from anticipated foreign currency transactions that may be adversely affected by changes in exchange rates. The contracts are carried at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss and gains/losses related to these contracts are recognized in Other Income, Net when the anticipated transaction affects income.

At March 31, 2015, multiple forward exchange contracts existed that expire on various dates through 2015. Those purchased forward exchange contracts outstanding at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, when aggregated and measured in U.S. dollars at contractual rates at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 had notional amounts totaling $47.1 million and $65.2 million, respectively.

No amounts were reclassified to earnings during the first three months of 2015 or during 2014 in connection with forecasted transactions that were considered probable of not occurring and there was no amount of ineffectiveness related to changes in the fair value of foreign currency forward contracts. Additionally, there were no amounts excluded from the measure of effectiveness.



15

Table of Contents
GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)





Derivatives not Designated as Hedges

The Company enters into forward exchange contracts to effectively hedge substantially all of its accounts receivable resulting from sales transactions denominated in foreign currencies in order to manage risks associated with foreign currency transactions adversely affected by changes in exchange rates. At March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, multiple foreign currency forward exchange contracts existed, with maturities ranging up to three months. Those foreign currency exchange contracts outstanding at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, when aggregated and measured in U.S. dollars at exchange rates at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, had net notional amounts totaling $48.3 million and $34.5 million, respectively. Unrealized gains and losses resulting from these contracts are recognized in Other Income, Net and approximately offset corresponding recognized but unrealized gains and losses on these accounts receivable.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The Company’s derivative instruments are carried at fair value. The Company has determined that the inputs to the valuation of these derivative instruments are level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. Level 2 inputs are defined as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets or inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly through market corroboration, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument. The Company uses valuation techniques based on discounted cash flow analyses, which reflect the terms of the derivatives and use observable market-based inputs, including forward rates, and uses market price quotations obtained from independent derivatives brokers, corroborated with information obtained from independent pricing service providers.

As of March 31, 2015, the Company had a gross derivative liability of $16.9 million and a gross derivative asset of $4.9 million, primarily related to interest rate, foreign currency and commodity contracts. As of March 31, 2015, there has not been any significant impact to the fair value of the Company’s derivative liabilities due to its own credit risk. Similarly, there has not been any significant adverse impact to the Company’s derivative assets based on evaluation of the Company’s counterparties’ credit risks.

The fair values of the Company’s other financial assets and liabilities at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 approximately equal the carrying values reported on the Consolidated Balance Sheets except for Total Debt. The fair value of the Company’s Total Debt (excluding capital leases) was $2,123.8 million and $1,975.6 million as compared to the carrying amounts of $2,102.8 million and $1,971.2 million as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. The fair value of the Company’s Total Debt, including the Senior Notes, are based on quoted market prices (Level 2 inputs).


The following is a rollforward of pre-tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss pertaining to derivative instruments:
In millions
 
Balance at December 31, 2014
$
(12.5
)
Reclassification to Earnings
2.9

Current Period Change in Fair Value
(2.1
)
Balance at March 31, 2015
$
(11.7
)

At March 31, 2015, the Company expects to reclassify approximately $6.9 million of loss in the next twelve months from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss to earnings, contemporaneously with and offsetting changes in the related hedged exposure. The actual amount that will be reclassified to future earnings may vary from this amount as a result of changes in market conditions.


16

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GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)





NOTE 8 — INCOME TAXES

During the three months ended March 31, 2015, the Company recognized Income Tax Expense of $33.6 million on Income before Income Taxes and Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entities of $88.4 million. The effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2015 was different than the statutory rate, primarily due to the mix and levels between foreign and domestic earnings, including losses in jurisdictions with full valuation allowances. During the three months ended March 31, 2014, the Company recognized Income Tax Expense of $24.8 million on Income before Income Taxes and Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entities of $59.3 million, respectively. The effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2014 was different than the statutory rate primarily due to the mix and levels between foreign and domestic earnings, including losses in jurisdictions with full valuation allowances, as well as the impact of the write-off of nondeductible goodwill in connection with the sale of the labels business and other discrete items. The Company has approximately $633 million of Net Operating Losses for U.S. federal income tax purposes, which are currently being used and may be used to offset future taxable income.


NOTE 9 — ENVIRONMENTAL AND LEGAL MATTERS

Environmental Matters

The Company is subject to a broad range of foreign, federal, state and local environmental, health and safety laws and regulations, including those governing discharges to air, soil and water, the management, treatment and disposal of hazardous substances, solid waste and hazardous wastes, the investigation and remediation of contamination resulting from historical site operations and releases of hazardous substances, and the health and safety of employees. Compliance initiatives could result in significant costs, which could negatively impact the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Any failure to comply with environmental or health and safety laws and regulations or any permits and authorizations required thereunder could subject the Company to fines, corrective action or other sanctions.

Some of the Company’s current and former facilities are the subject of environmental investigations and remediations resulting from historical operations and the release of hazardous substances or other constituents. Some current and former facilities have a history of industrial usage for which investigation and remediation obligations may be imposed in the future or for which indemnification claims may be asserted against the Company. Also, potential future closures or sales of facilities may necessitate further investigation and may result in future remediation at those facilities.

The Company has established reserves for those facilities or issues where a liability is probable and the costs are reasonably estimable. The Company believes that the amounts accrued for all of its loss contingencies, and the reasonably possible loss beyond the amounts accrued, are not material to the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Currently, the Company expects to spend less than $3 million in 2015 to achieve compliance with the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for units at major sources (known as "Boiler MACT"). The Company cannot estimate with certainty other future corrective compliance, investigation or remediation costs. Some costs relating to historical usage that the Company considers to be reasonably possible of resulting in a liability are not quantifiable at this time. The Company will continue to monitor environmental issues at each of its facilities, as well as regulatory developments, and will revise its accruals, estimates and disclosures relating to past, present and future operations, as additional information is obtained.

Legal Matters

The Company is a party to a number of lawsuits arising in the ordinary conduct of its business. Although the timing and outcome of these lawsuits cannot be predicted with certainty, the Company does not believe that disposition of these lawsuits will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.


NOTE 10 — SEGMENT INFORMATION


The Company reports its results in one reportable segment, paperboard packaging. This segment is evaluated by the chief operating decision maker based primarily on Income from Operations as adjusted for depreciation and amortization.  Prior to the sale of the multi-wall bag business on June 30, 2014, the Company reported its results in two reportable segments: paperboard packaging and flexible packaging. These reportable segments are based upon strategic business units with different products.  The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in GPHC’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. Prior year results have been reclassified to include the remaining flexible packaging facility that was not sold and corporate in the paperboard packaging segment.








17

Table of Contents
GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)



Segment information is as follows:

 
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
March 31,
In millions
 
2015
 
2014
NET SALES:
 
 
 
 
Paperboard Packaging
 
$
1,008.2

 
$
964.7

Flexible Packaging
 

 
108.0

Total
 
$
1,008.2

 
$
1,072.7

 
 
 
 
 
INCOME (LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS:
 
 
 
 
Paperboard Packaging
 
$
105.3

 
$
87.0

Flexible Packaging
 

 
(7.3
)
Total
 
$
105.3

 
$
79.7

 
 
 
 
 
DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION:
 
 
 
 
Paperboard Packaging
 
$
68.1

 
$
61.8

Flexible Packaging
 

 
5.2

Total
 
$
68.1

 
$
67.0


For more information regarding the Company’s business segments, see “Note 16 — Business Segment and Geographic Area Information” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company’s 2014 Form 10-K.


NOTE 11 — EARNINGS PER SHARE
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
March 31,
In millions, except per share data
 
2015
 
2014
Net Income Attributable to Graphic Packaging Holding Company
 
$
55.1

 
$
35.2

Weighted Average Shares:
 
 
 
 
Basic

329.6


327.6

Dilutive Effect of RSUs and Stock Awards
 
2.3

 
2.7

Diluted

331.9


330.3

Income Per Share — Basic
 
$
0.17

 
$
0.11

Income Per Share — Diluted
 
$
0.17

 
$
0.11




















18

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GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)






NOTE 12 — EQUITY

The following is a summary of the changes in total equity for the three months ended March 31, 2015:


In millions
Total Shareholder's Equity
Balance at December 31, 2014
$
1,012.3

Net Income
55.1

Other Comprehensive Loss, Net of Tax
(16.4
)
Dividends declared
(16.4
)
Repurchase of Common Stock
(4.0
)
Compensation Expense Under Share-Based Plans
3.6

Issuance of Common Stock, Net of Stock Withheld for Taxes
(20.1
)
Balance at March 31, 2015
$
1,014.1







19

Table of Contents
GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)



NOTE 13 — OTHER COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME
The following represents changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income by each component of other comprehensive income for the three months ended March 31, 2015 (a):
In millions
Derivative Instruments
Currency Translation Adjustment
Pension Benefit Plans
Postretirement Benefit Plans
Total
Balance at December 31, 2014
$
(17.7
)
$
(50.6
)
$
(278.0
)
$
11.7

$
(334.6
)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) before Reclassifications
(1.3
)
(20.1
)


(21.4
)
Amounts Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income (b)
1.8


3.5

(0.3
)
5.0

Net Current-period Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
0.5

(20.1
)
3.5

(0.3
)
(16.4
)
Balance at March 31, 2015
$
(17.2
)
$
(70.7
)
$
(274.5
)
$
11.4

$
(351.0
)

(a) 
All amounts are net-of-tax.
(b) See following table for details about these reclassifications.














20

Table of Contents
GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)



The following represents reclassifications out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income for the three months ended March 31, 2015:

In millions
 
 
 
 
Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Components
 
Amount Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
 
Affected Line Item in the Statement Where Net Income is Presented
Derivatives Instruments:
 
 
 
 
Commodity Contracts
 
$
3.5

 
Cost of Sales
Foreign Currency Contracts
 
(1.4
)
 
Other Income, Net
Interest Rate Swap Agreements
 
0.8

 
Interest Expense, Net
 
 
2.9

 
Total before Tax
 
 
(1.1
)
 
Tax Benefit
 
 
$
1.8

 
Net of Tax
 
 
 
 
 
Amortization of Defined Benefit Pension Plans:
 
 
 
 
Prior Service Costs
 
$
0.2

(c) 
 
Actuarial Losses
 
5.5

(c) 
 
 
 
5.7

 
Total before Tax
 
 
(2.2
)
 
Tax Benefit
 
 
$
3.5

 
Net of Tax
 
 
 
 
 
Amortization of Postretirement Benefit Plans:
 
 
 
 
Prior Service Credits
 
$
(0.1
)
(c) 
 
Actuarial Gains
 
(0.4
)
(c) 
 
 
 
(0.5
)
 
Total before Tax
 
 
0.2

 
Tax Expense
 
 
$
(0.3
)
 
Net of Tax
 
 
 
 
 
Total Reclassifications for the Period
 
$
5.0

 
 
 

(c) 
These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic pension cost (see “Note 6 — Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits").





NOTE 14 — GUARANTOR CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
This disclosure is required because certain subsidiaries are guarantors of GPII's debt securities. These consolidating financial statements reflect GPHC and GPC (collectively the "Parent”); GPII, the Subsidiary Issuer; and the Subsidiary Guarantors, which consist of all material 100% owned subsidiaries of GPII other than its foreign subsidiaries and their domestic holding companies; and the nonguarantor subsidiaries (herein referred to as “Nonguarantor Subsidiaries”). The Nonguarantor Subsidiaries include all of GPII's foreign subsidiaries and their domestic holding companies and the subsidiaries of GFP. Separate complete financial statements of the Subsidiary Guarantors are not presented because the guarantors are jointly and severally, fully and unconditionally liable under the guarantees.



21

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GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)



 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
In millions
Parent
 
Subsidiary Issuer
 
Combined Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Combined Nonguarantor Subsidiaries
 
Consolidating Eliminations
 
Consolidated
Net Sales
$


$
810.9


$
9.3


$
248.1


$
(60.1
)

$
1,008.2

Cost of Sales


658.6


8.4


211.7


(60.1
)

818.6

Selling, General and Administrative


65.8


2.6


17.0




85.4

Other (Income) Expense, Net


(3.4
)

(0.1
)

0.2




(3.3
)
Restructuring and Other Special Charges


1.2




1.0




2.2

Income (Loss) from Operations


88.7


(1.6
)

18.2




105.3

Interest Expense, Net


(16.0
)



(0.9
)



(16.9
)
Income (Loss) before Income Taxes and Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entities


72.7


(1.6
)

17.3




88.4

Income Tax (Expense) Benefit


(27.7
)

0.6


(6.5
)



(33.6
)
Income (Loss) before Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entities


45.0


(1.0
)

10.8




54.8

Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entities






0.3




0.3

Equity in Net Earnings of Subsidiaries
55.1


10.1


1.7




(66.9
)


Net Income (Loss)
55.1


55.1


0.7


11.1


(66.9
)

55.1



















Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Graphic Packaging Holding Company
$
38.7


$
38.7


$
(2.6
)

$
(20.5
)

$
(15.6
)

$
38.7



 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
In millions
Parent
 
Subsidiary Issuer
 
Combined Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Combined Nonguarantor Subsidiaries
 
Consolidating Eliminations
 
Consolidated
Net Sales
$


$
818.1


$
8.5


$
292.1


$
(46.0
)

$
1,072.7

Cost of Sales


659.5


8.0


264.2


(46.0
)

885.7

Selling, General and Administrative


73.6


0.6


26.7




100.9

Other Income, Net


(0.7
)

(0.1
)

(0.6
)



(1.4
)
Restructuring and Other Special Charges


0.3


5.9


1.6




7.8

Income (Loss) from Operations


85.4


(5.9
)

0.2




79.7

Interest Expense, Net


(18.2
)



(2.2
)



(20.4
)
Income (Loss) before Income Taxes and Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entities


67.2


(5.9
)

(2.0
)



59.3

Income Tax (Expense) Benefit


(28.0
)

2.0


1.2




(24.8
)
Income (Loss) before Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entities


39.2


(3.9
)

(0.8
)



34.5

Equity Income (Loss) of Unconsolidated Entities




0.6


(0.3
)



0.3

Equity in Net Earnings of Subsidiaries
34.8


(4.4
)

(0.6
)



(29.8
)


Net Income (Loss)
34.8


34.8


(3.9
)

(1.1
)

(29.8
)

34.8

Net Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests
0.4


0.4






(0.4
)

0.4

Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Graphic Packaging Holding Company
$
35.2


$
35.2


$
(3.9
)

$
(1.1
)

$
(30.2
)

$
35.2



















Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Graphic Packaging Holding Company
$
39.2


$
39.2


$
(3.8
)

$
4.0


$
(39.4
)

$
39.2


22

Table of Contents
GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)



 
March 31, 2015
In millions
Parent
 
Subsidiary
Issuer
 
Combined
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Combined
Nonguarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Consolidating
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
ASSETS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
$

 
$
1.0

 
$
1.2

 
$
41.2

 
$

 
$
43.4

Receivables, Net

 
261.1

 
8.5

 
213.5

 

 
483.1

Inventories, Net

 
400.0

 
4.3

 
159.0

 

 
563.3

Intercompany
17.6

 
523.3

 

 

 
(554.1
)
 
(13.2
)
Deferred Income Tax Assets

 
176.6

 


2.8

 

 
179.4

Other Current Assets

 
24.9

 
1.0

 
17.6

 

 
43.5

Assets Held for Sale

 

 

 

 

 

Total Current Assets
17.6

 
1,386.9

 
15.0

 
434.1

 
(554.1
)
 
1,299.5

Property, Plant and Equipment, Net

 
1,337.1

 
9.4

 
215.7

 


 
1,562.2

Investment in Consolidated Subsidiaries
996.5

 

 
17.4

 

 
(1,013.9
)
 

Goodwill

 
1,043.1

 
9.2

 
124.5

 

 
1,176.8

Other Assets

 
367.1

 
5.5

 
69.0

 


 
441.6

Total Assets
$
1,014.1

 
$
4,134.2

 
$
56.5

 
$
843.3

 
$
(1,568.0
)
 
$
4,480.1

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LIABILITIES
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Short-Term Debt and Current Portion of Long-Term Debt
$

 
$
26.2

 
$

 
$
8.8

 
$

 
$
35.0

Accounts Payable

 
314.9

 
3.4

 
117.1

 

 
435.4

Intercompany

 

 
4.2

 
770.9

 
(788.3
)
 
(13.2
)
Other Accrued Liabilities

 
155.7

 
3.1

 
48.0

 

 
206.8

Total Current Liabilities

 
496.8

 
10.7

 
944.8

 
(788.3
)
 
664.0

Long-Term Debt

 
1,967.5

 

 
103.4

 

 
2,070.9

Deferred Income Tax Liabilities

 
318.9

 
0.3

 
26.1

 

 
345.3

Other Noncurrent Liabilities

 
354.5

 

 
31.3

 

 
385.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
EQUITY
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Graphic Packaging Holding Company Shareholders’ Equity
1,014.1

 
996.5

 
45.5

 
(262.3
)
 
(779.7
)
 
1,014.1

Total Equity
1,014.1

 
996.5

 
45.5

 
(262.3
)
 
(779.7
)
 
1,014.1

Total Liabilities and Equity
$
1,014.1

 
$
4,134.2

 
$
56.5

 
$
843.3

 
$
(1,568.0
)
 
$
4,480.1




23

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GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)



 
December 31, 2014
In millions
Parent
 
Subsidiary
Issuer
 
Combined
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Combined
Nonguarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Consolidating
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
ASSETS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
$

 
$
2.0

 
$
1.8

 
$
77.8

 
$

 
$
81.6

Receivables, Net

 
233.2

 
8.6

 
166.5

 

 
408.3

Inventories, Net

 
408.5

 
4.8

 
108.5

 

 
521.8

Deferred Income Tax Assets

 
176.9

 

 
0.3

 

 
177.2

Intercompany
54.5

 
337.5

 

 

 
(392.0
)
 

Other Current Assets

 
22.0

 
1.3

 
8.7

 

 
32.0

Total Current Assets
54.5

 
1,180.1

 
16.5

 
361.8

 
(392.0
)
 
1,220.9

Property, Plant and Equipment, Net

 
1,349.3

 
10.3

 
187.3

 
(0.1
)
 
1,546.8

Investment in Consolidated Subsidiaries
957.8

 

 
18.7

 

 
(976.5
)
 

Goodwill

 
1,043.1

 

 
75.0

 

 
1,118.1

Other Assets

 
372.9

 
15.4

 
57.2

 

 
445.5

Total Assets
$
1,012.3

 
$
3,945.4

 
$
60.9

 
$
681.3

 
$
(1,368.6
)
 
$
4,331.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LIABILITIES
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Short-Term Debt and Current Portion of Long-Term Debt
$

 
$
26.3

 
$

 
$
5.9

 
$

 
$
32.2

Accounts Payable

 
316.3

 
2.7

 
105.9

 

 
424.9

Intercompany

 

 
7.1

 
597.4

 
(604.5
)
 

Other Accrued Liabilities

 
175.1

 
2.7

 
41.8

 

 
219.6

Total Current Liabilities

 
517.7

 
12.5

 
751.0

 
(604.5
)
 
676.7

Long-Term Debt

 
1,822.2

 

 
119.9

 

 
1,942.1

Deferred Income Tax Liabilities

 
287.3

 
0.3

 
21.7

 

 
309.3

Other Noncurrent Liabilities

 
360.4

 

 
30.5

 

 
390.9

 


 


 


 


 


 


Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests

 

 

 

 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
EQUITY
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Graphic Packaging Holding Company Shareholders’ Equity
1,012.3

 
957.8

 
48.1

 
(241.8
)
 
(764.1
)
 
1,012.3

Total Liabilities and Equity
$
1,012.3

 
$
3,945.4

 
$
60.9

 
$
681.3

 
$
(1,368.6
)
 
$
4,331.3


24

Table of Contents
GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)



 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
In millions
Parent
 
Subsidiary
Issuer
 
Combined
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Combined
Nonguarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Consolidating
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net Income (Loss)
$
55.1

 
$
55.1

 
$
0.7

 
$
11.1

 
$
(66.9
)
 
$
55.1

Non-cash Items Included in Net Income (Loss):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Depreciation and Amortization


 
55.4

 
0.5

 
12.2

 

 
68.1

Deferred Income Taxes

 
25.8

 
(0.7
)
 
4.8

 

 
29.9

Amount of Postretirement Expense (Less) Greater Than Funding

 
(4.7
)
 

 
(3.4
)
 

 
(8.1
)
Equity in Net Earnings of Subsidiaries
(55.1
)
 
(10.1
)
 
(1.7
)
 

 
66.9

 

Loss on the Sale of Assets

 

 

 

 

 

Other, Net

 
11.6

 

 
(0.9
)
 

 
10.7

Changes in Operating Assets and Liabilities

 
(6.6
)
 
0.7

 
(122.1
)
 

 
(128.0
)
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities

 
126.5

 
(0.5
)
 
(98.3
)
 

 
27.7

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Capital Spending

 
(51.6
)
 
(0.1
)
 
(9.0
)
 

 
(60.7
)
Acquisition of Business, Net of Cash Acquired


(80.1
)



(36.5
)



(116.6
)
Cash Acquired in Acquisition











Other, Net
24.1

 
(0.1
)
 

 

 
(24.1
)
 
(0.1
)
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
24.1

 
(131.8
)
 
(0.1
)
 
(45.5
)
 
(24.1
)
 
(177.4
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Repurchase of Common Stock
(4.0
)
 

 

 

 

 
(4.0
)
Payments on Debt

 
(6.3
)
 

 

 

 
(6.3
)
Borrowings under Revolving Credit Facilities

 
276.1

 

 
120.6

 

 
396.7

Payments on Revolving Credit Facilities

 
(241.4
)
 

 
(9.9
)
 

 
(251.3
)
Repurchase of Common Stock related to Share-Based Payments
(20.1
)
 

 

 

 

 
(20.1
)
Other, Net

 
(24.1
)
 

 

 
24.1

 

Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Financing Activities
(24.1
)
 
4.3

 

 
110.7

 
24.1

 
115.0

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash

 

 

 
(3.5
)
 

 
(3.5
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net Decrease in Cash and Cash Equivalents

 
(1.0
)
 
(0.6
)
 
(36.6
)
 

 
(38.2
)
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period

 
2.0

 
1.8

 
77.8

 

 
81.6

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD
$

 
$
1.0

 
$
1.2

 
$
41.2

 
$

 
$
43.4



25

Table of Contents
GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)



 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
In millions
Parent
 
Subsidiary
Issuer
 
Combined
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Combined
Nonguarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Consolidating
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net Income (Loss)
$
34.8

 
$
34.8

 
$
(3.9
)
 
$
(1.1
)
 
$
(29.8
)
 
$
34.8

Non-cash Items Included in Net Income (Loss):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Depreciation and Amortization

 
57.5

 

 
9.5

 

 
67.0

Deferred Income Taxes

 
25.8

 

 
(2.6
)
 

 
23.2

Amount of Postretirement Expense Greater (Less) Than Funding

 
0.3

 

 
0.2

 

 
0.5

Equity in Net Earnings of Subsidiaries
(34.8
)
 
4.4

 
0.6

 

 
29.8

 

Gain on the Sale of Assets

 

 
5.9

 

 

 
5.9

Other, Net

 
10.8

 
1.3

 
1.1

 

 
13.2

Changes in Operating Assets and Liabilities

 
(41.3
)
 
(74.6
)
 
(14.6
)
 
15.8

 
(114.7
)
Net Cash Provided By (Used in) Operating Activities

 
92.3

 
(70.7
)
 
(7.5
)
 
15.8

 
29.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Capital Spending

 
(41.2
)
 

 
(18.1
)
 

 
(59.3
)
Proceeds Received from the Sale of Assets

 

 
70.7

 

 

 
70.7

Other, Net
15.8

 
(0.5
)
 

 

 
(15.8
)
 
(0.5
)
Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities
15.8

 
(41.7
)
 
70.7

 
(18.1
)
 
(15.8
)
 
10.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Proceeds from Issuance or Modification of Debt

 

 

 

 

 

Retirement of Long-Term Debt

 

 

 

 

 

Payments on Debt

 
(15.4
)
 

 

 

 
(15.4
)
Borrowings under Revolving Credit Facilities

 
236.6

 

 
30.7

 

 
267.3

Payments on Revolving Credit Facilities

 
(273.1
)
 

 
(21.1
)
 

 
(294.2
)
Repurchase of Common Stock related to Share-Based Payments
(15.8
)
 

 

 

 

 
(15.8
)
Other, Net

 

 

 
(0.5
)
 

 
(0.5
)
Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Financing Activities
(15.8
)
 
(51.9
)
 

 
9.1

 

 
(58.6
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash

 

 

 
0.3

 

 
0.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net Decrease in Cash and Cash Equivalents

 
(1.3
)
 

 
(16.2
)
 

 
(17.5
)
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period

 
1.3

 

 
50.9

 

 
52.2

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD
$

 
$

 
$

 
$
34.7

 
$

 
$
34.7



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Table of Contents        


    

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

INTRODUCTION

This management’s discussion and analysis of financial conditions and results of operations is intended to provide investors with an understanding of the Company's past performance, financial condition and prospects. The following will be discussed and analyzed:

Ø
Overview of Business

Ø
Overview of 2015 Results

Ø
Results of Operations

Ø
Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources

Ø
Critical Accounting Policies

Ø
New Accounting Standards

Ø
Business Outlook

OVERVIEW OF BUSINESS

The Company’s objective is to strengthen its position as a leading provider of paper-based packaging solutions. To achieve this objective, the Company offers customers its paperboard, cartons and packaging machines, either as an integrated solution or separately. Cartons and carriers are designed to protect and contain products. Product offerings include a variety of laminated, coated and printed packaging structures that are produced from the Company’s coated unbleached kraft (“CUK”) and coated-recycled board (“CRB”), as well as other grades of paperboard that are purchased from third party suppliers. Innovative designs and combinations of paperboard, films, foils, metallization, holographics and embossing are customized to the individual needs of the customers.

The Company is implementing strategies (i) to expand market share in its current markets and to identify and penetrate new markets; (ii) to capitalize on the Company’s customer relationships, business competencies, and mills and converting assets; (iii) to develop and market innovative, sustainable products and applications; and (iv) to continue to reduce costs by focusing on operational improvements. The Company’s ability to fully implement its strategies and achieve its objectives may be influenced by a variety of factors, many of which are beyond its control, such as inflation of raw material and other costs, which the Company cannot always pass through to its customers, and the effect of overcapacity in the worldwide paperboard packaging industry.

Significant Factors That Impact The Company’s Business

Impact of Inflation. The Company’s cost of sales consists primarily of energy (including natural gas, fuel oil and electricity), pine pulpwood, chemicals, secondary fibers, purchased paperboard, aluminum foil, ink, plastic films and resins, depreciation expense and labor. Inflation increased costs in the first three months of 2015 by $4.8 million, compared to the first three months of 2014. The higher costs in 2015 are primarily related to labor and benefits ($7.8 million), wood ($2.0 million) and externally purchased board ($1.6 million), partially offset by lower costs for energy ($3.3 million), primarily due to the price of natural gas, secondary fiber ($1.7 million), chemicals ($0.8 million), freight ($0.5 million) and other costs ($0.3 million).
 
Because the price of natural gas has experienced significant volatility, the Company has entered into contracts designed to manage risks associated with future variability in cash flows caused by changes in the price of natural gas. The Company has entered into natural gas swap contracts to hedge prices for a portion of its expected usage for the remainder of 2015 and 2016. Since negotiated sales contracts and the market largely determine the pricing for its products, the Company is at times limited in its ability to raise prices and pass through to its customers any inflationary or other cost increases that the Company may incur.

Commitment to Cost Reduction. In light of increasing margin pressure throughout the packaging industry, the Company has programs in place that are designed to reduce costs, improve productivity and increase profitability. The Company utilizes a global continuous improvement initiative that uses statistical process control to help design and manage many types of activities, including production and maintenance. This includes a Six Sigma process focused on reducing variable and fixed manufacturing and administrative costs. The Company expanded the continuous improvement initiative to include the deployment of Lean Sigma principles into manufacturing and supply chain services. As the Company strengthens the systems approach to continuous improvement, Lean Sigma supports the efforts to build a high performing culture. During the first three months of 2015, the Company achieved approximately $16 million in incremental cost savings as compared to the first three months of 2014, through its continuous improvement programs and manufacturing initiatives.

The Company’s ability to continue to successfully implement its business strategies and to realize anticipated savings and operating efficiencies is subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the Company’s control. If the Company cannot successfully implement the strategic cost reductions or other cost savings plans it may not be able to continue to compete successfully against other manufacturers. In addition, any failure to generate the anticipated efficiencies and savings could adversely affect the Company’s financial results.

Competition and Market Factors. As some products can be packaged in different types of materials, the Company’s sales are affected by competition from other manufacturers’ CUK board and CRB board and other paper substrates such as solid bleached sulfate and

27

Table of Contents        


    

recycled clay-coated news. Additional substitute products also include plastic, shrink film and corrugated containers. In addition, while the Company has long-term relationships with many of its customers, the underlying contracts may be re-bid or renegotiated from time to time, and the Company may not be successful in renewing on favorable terms or at all. The Company works to maintain market share through efficiency, product innovation and strategic sourcing to its customers; however, pricing and other competitive pressures may occasionally result in the loss of a customer relationship.

In addition, the Company’s sales historically are driven by consumer buying habits in the markets its customers serve. Changes in consumer dietary habits and preferences, increases in the costs of living, unemployment rates, access to credit markets, as well as other macroeconomic factors, may significantly negatively affect consumer spending behavior, which could have a material adverse effect on demand for the Company’s products. New product introductions and promotional activity by the Company’s customers and the Company’s introduction of new packaging products also impact its sales. The Company’s containerboard business is subject to conditions in the cyclical worldwide commodity paperboard markets, which have a significant impact on containerboard sales.

Debt Obligations. The Company had $2,105.9 million of outstanding debt obligations as of March 31, 2015. This debt has consequences for the Company, as it requires a portion of cash flow from operations to be used for the payment of principal and interest, exposes the Company to the risk of increased interest rates and restricts the Company’s ability to obtain additional financing. Covenants in the Company's Credit Agreement and Indentures also restrict, among other things, the disposal of assets, the incurrence of additional indebtedness (including guarantees), payment of dividends, loans or advances, and certain other types of transactions. The Credit Agreement also requires compliance with a maximum consolidated leverage ratio and a minimum consolidated interest coverage ratio. The Company’s ability to comply in future periods with the financial covenants will depend on its ongoing financial and operating performance, which in turn will be subject to many other factors, many of which are beyond the Company’s control. See “Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources — Liquidity and Capital Resources” for additional information regarding the Company’s debt obligations.

The debt and the restrictions under the Credit Agreement and the Indentures could limit the Company’s flexibility to respond to changing market conditions and competitive pressures. The outstanding debt obligations and the restrictions may also leave the Company more vulnerable to a downturn in general economic conditions or its business, or unable to carry out capital expenditures that are necessary or important to its growth strategy and productivity improvement programs.

OVERVIEW OF FIRST QUARTER 2015 RESULTS

This management’s discussion and analysis contains an analysis of Net Sales, Income from Operations and other information relevant to an understanding of results of operations.

Net Sales for the three months ended March 31, 2015, decreased by $64.5 million or 6.0%, to $1,008.2 million from $1.072.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014 primarily due to the sale of the multi-wall bag and label businesses of $113.9 million and unfavorable exchange rates of $29.3 million. This decrease was partially offset by the acquisition of the Benson Group (“Benson”) on May 23, 2014 and the North American Acquisitions discussed below.

Income from Operations for the three months ended March 31, 2015 increased to $105.3 million or 32.1% from $79.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014. The increase was due to the acquisitions, costs savings due to continuous improvement programs and the unplanned downtime due to power supply interruptions related to severe weather in 2014. These increases were partially offset by unfavorable exchange rates and inflation.

On February 4, 2015, the Company completed its acquisition of certain assets of Cascades Norampac Division ("Cascades"). Cascades operated three folding carton converting facilities located in Cobourg, Ontario, Mississauga, Ontario and Winnipeg, Manitoba along with a thermo mechanical pulp mill located in Jonquiere, Quebec and a CRB mill located in East Angus, Quebec. On January 2, 2015, the Company acquired Rose City Printing and Packaging Inc. ("Rose City") through the purchase of all of the issued and outstanding stock of its parent company, Rose City Holding Company. Rose City services food and beverage end markets and operates two folding carton converting facilities located in Gresham, OR and Vancouver, WA. The Cascades and Rose City transactions are referred to collectively as the "North American Acquisitions."

On February 4, 2015, the Company's board of directors authorized a share repurchase program to allow management to purchase up to $250 million of the Company's issued and outstanding shares of common stock through open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions and Rule 10b5-1 plans. The Company repurchased 279,328 shares at an average price of $14.30 during the quarter ended March 31, 2015.

Also on February 4, 2015, the Company's board of directors declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.05 per share of common stock payable on April 5, 2015 to shareholders of record as of March 15, 2015.







28

Table of Contents        


    

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


 
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
March 31,
 
 
2015
 
2014
Net Sales
 
$
1,008.2

 
$
1,072.7

Income from Operations
 
$
105.3

 
$
79.7

Interest Expense, Net
 
(16.9
)
 
(20.4
)
Income before Taxes and Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entities
 
$
88.4

 
$
59.3

Income Tax Expense
 
(33.6
)
 
(24.8
)
Income before Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entities
 
$
54.8

 
$
34.5

Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entities
 
0.3

 
0.3

Net Income
 
$
55.1

 
$
34.8


Prior to the sale of the multi-wall bag business on June 30, 2014, the Company reported its results in two reportable segments: paperboard packaging and flexible packaging.  As a result of the sale, the Company reevaluated its reportable segments and effective July 1, 2014, the Company began to report its results in one reportable segment: paperboard packaging.  Prior year results have been reclassified to include the remaining flexible packaging facility and corporate in the paperboard packaging segment.


FIRST QUARTER 2015 COMPARED WITH FIRST QUARTER 2014

Net Sales

 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
In millions    
2015
 
2014
 
Increase (Decrease)
 
Percent
Change
Paperboard Packaging
$
1,008.2

 
964.7

 
$
43.5

 
4.5
 %
Flexible Packaging

 
108.0

 
(108.0
)
 
NM (a)

Total
$
1,008.2

 
$
1,072.7

 
$
(64.5
)
 
(6.0
)%


(a) Percentage is not meaningful.

The components of the change in Net Sales by segment are as follows:

 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
 
Variances
 
 
In millions
2014
 
Price
 
Volume/Mix
 
Divestitures
Exchange
 
Total
 
2015
Paperboard Packaging
$
964.7

 
$
2.2

 
$
76.2

 
$
(5.9
)
$
(29.0
)
 
$
43.5

 
$
1,008.2

Flexible Packaging
108.0

 

 

 
(108.0
)

 
(108.0
)
 

Total
$
1,072.7

 
$
2.2

 
$
76.2

 
$
(113.9
)
$
(29.0
)
 
$
(64.5
)
 
$
1,008.2


Paperboard Packaging

The Company’s Net Sales from paperboard packaging for the three months ended March 31, 2015 increased by $43.5 million or 4.5% to $1,008.2 million from $964.7 million for the same period in 2014. The increase was driven by the Benson and North American acquisitions of approximately $83 million and slightly higher pricing due to inflationary cost pass throughs. Volume in the global beverage markets increased while volume declined in certain consumer product markets, primarily cereal and frozen food, due to continued market softness. The volume decline was partially offset by new products. Net sales were also negatively impacted by unfavorable exchange rates, primarily in the U.K. and Europe, as well as the divestiture of the label business in 2014.






29

Table of Contents        


    

Flexible Packaging

The Company’s Net Sales from flexible packaging for the three months ended March 31, 2015 decreased by $108.0 million, due to the sale of the multi-wall bag business on June 30, 2014.


Income (Loss) from Operations

 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
In millions    
2015
 
2014
 
Increase (Decrease)
 
Percent
Change
Paperboard Packaging
$
105.3

 
$
87.0

 
$
18.3

 
21.0%
Flexible Packaging

 
(7.3
)
 
7.3

 
N.M. (a)
Total
$
105.3

 
$
79.7

 
$
25.6

 
32.1%

(a) Percentage is not meaningful.
    

The components of the change in Income (Loss) from Operations by segment are as follows:

 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
 
Variances
 
 
In millions
2014
 
Price
 
Volume/Mix
 
Divestitures
 
Inflation
 
Exchange
 
Other (b)
 
Total
 
2015
Paperboard Packaging
$
87.0

 
$
2.2

 
$
10.8

 
$
(0.6
)
 
$
(4.8
)
 
$
(7.8
)
 
$
18.5

 
$
18.3

 
$
105.3

Flexible Packaging
(7.3
)
 

 

 
7.3

 

 

 

 
7.3

 

Total
$
79.7

 
$
2.2

 
$
10.8

 
$
6.7

 
$
(4.8
)
 
$
(7.8
)
 
$
18.5

 
$
25.6

 
$
105.3


(b) Includes the Company's cost reduction initiatives, sale of assets and expenses related to acquisitions and integration activities and shutdown costs.

Paperboard Packaging

The Company’s Income from Operations from paperboard packaging for the three months ended March 31, 2015 increased by $18.3 million or 21% to $105.3 million from $87.0 million for the same period in 2014. This increase was the result of cost savings through continuous improvement programs as well as general and administrative cost savings following the divestitures in 2014, the acquisitions, the higher pricing and the impact of the severe weather and related power outages in 2014. These increases were partially offset by the unfavorable exchange rates and higher inflation. The inflation was primarily related to labor and benefits ($7.8 million), wood ($2.0 million) and externally purchased board ($1.6 million) partially offset by lower costs for energy ($3.3 million), primarily due to the price of natural gas, secondary fiber ($1.7 million), chemicals ($0.8 million) freight ($0.5 million) and other costs ($0.3 million).

Flexible Packaging

The Company’s Income from Operations from flexible packaging for the three months ended March 31, 2015 decreased by $7.3 million due to the sale of the multi-wall bag business.

Interest Expense, Net

Interest Expense, Net was $16.9 million and $20.4 million for the first three months of 2015 and 2014, respectively. Interest Expense, Net decreased due to lower average interest rates on the Company’s debt and lower average debt balances. As of March 31, 2015, approximately 41% of the Company’s total debt was subject to floating interest rates.

Income Tax Expense

During the three months months ended March 31, 2015, the Company recognized Income Tax Expense of $33.6 million on Income before Income Taxes and Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entities of $88.4 million. The effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2015 was different than the statutory rate, primarily due to the mix and levels between foreign and domestic earnings, including losses in jurisdictions with full valuation allowances. During the three months ended March 31, 2014, the Company recognized Income Tax Expense of $24.8 million on Income before Income Taxes and Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entities of $59.3 million. The effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2014 was different than the statutory rate primarily due to the mix and levels between foreign and domestic earnings, including losses in jurisdictions with full valuation allowances, as well as the impact of the write-off of nondeductible goodwill in connection with the sale of the labels business and other discrete items. The Company has approximately $633 million of Net Operating Losses ("NOLs") for U.S. federal income tax purposes as of March 31, 2015, which are currently being used and may be used to offset future taxable income.

30

Table of Contents        


    


FINANCIAL CONDITION, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

The Company broadly defines liquidity as its ability to generate sufficient funds from both internal and external sources to meet its obligations and commitments. In addition, liquidity includes the ability to obtain appropriate debt and equity financing and to convert into cash those assets that are no longer required to meet existing strategic and financial objectives. Therefore, liquidity cannot be considered separately from capital resources that consist of current or potentially available funds for use in achieving long-range business objectives and meeting debt service commitments.

Cash Flows
 
Three Months Ended
 
March 31,
In millions
2015
 
2014
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities
$
27.7

 
$
29.9

Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities
$
(177.4
)
 
$
10.9

Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
$
115.0

 
$
(58.6
)

Net cash provided by operating activities for the first three months of 2015 totaled $27.7 million, compared to net cash provided by operating activities of $29.9 million for the same period in 2014. The decrease was due primarily to higher pension contributions of approximately $12 million during the first three months of 2015 compared with the same period of the prior year, partially offset by improved business operations, and lower average interest rates and debt balances on the Company's debt. Pension contributions for the first three months of 2015 and 2014 were $12.8 million and $0.8 million, respectively.

Net cash used in investing activities for the first three months of 2015 totaled $177.4 million, compared to net cash provided by investing activities of $10.9 million for the same period in 2014. The year over year change was primarily due to the North American Acquisitions in the current year and the proceeds received from the sale of the labels business in the prior year.

Net cash provided by financing activities for the first three months of 2015 totaled $115.0 million, compared to net cash used in financing activities of $58.6 million for the same period in 2014. Current year activities included net borrowings under revolving credit facilities of $145.5 million primarily for the North American Acquisitions, and payments on debt of $6.3 million. The Company repurchased $4.0 million of its common stock and withheld $20.1 million of restricted stock units to satisfy tax withholding payments related to the payout of restricted stock units. In the prior year, the Company had net payments under revolving credit facilities of $26.9 million and payments on debt of $15.4 million. Additionally, in the prior year the Company withheld $15.8 million of restricted stock units to satisfy tax withholding payments related to the payout of restricted stock units.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Company's liquidity needs arise primarily from debt service on its indebtedness and from the funding of its capital expenditures, ongoing operating costs and working capital. Principal and interest payments under the term loan facility and the revolving credit facilities, together with principal and interest payments on the Company's 4.75% Senior Notes due 2021 and 4.875% Senior Notes due 2022 (the “Notes”), represent liquidity requirements for the Company. Based upon current levels of operations, anticipated cost savings and expectations as to future growth, the Company believes that cash generated from operations, together with amounts available under its revolving credit facilities and other available financing sources, will be adequate to permit the Company to meet its debt service obligations, necessary capital expenditure program requirements and ongoing operating costs and working capital needs, although no assurance can be given in this regard. The Company's future financial and operating performance, ability to service or refinance its debt and ability to comply with the covenants and restrictions contained in its debt agreements (see “Covenant Restrictions” below) will be subject to future economic conditions, including conditions in the credit markets, and to financial, business and other factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control, and will be substantially dependent on the selling prices and demand for the Company's products, raw material and energy costs, and the Company's ability to successfully implement its overall business and profitability strategies.

The Company has entered into an agreement for the purchasing and servicing of receivables (the "AR Sales Agreement"), to sell, on a revolving basis, certain trade accounts receivable balances to a third party financial institution. Transfers under this agreement meet the requirements to be accounted for as sales in accordance with the Transfers and Servicing topic of the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification ("Codification"). During the first quarter 2015, the Company sold and derecognized approximately $173 million of receivables, of which $142 million has been collected on behalf of the financial institution, $15 million has been funded by the financial institution, resulting in a $48 million receivable from the financial institution as of March 31, 2015. Cash proceeds related to the sales are included in cash from operating activities in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in the Changes in Operating Assets and Liabilities line item. The loss on sale is not material and is included in Other Income, Net line item in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations.

The Company has also entered into various factoring and supply chain financing arrangements, principally at the request of customers, which also qualify for sale accounting in accordance with the Transfers and Servicing topic of the FASB Codification. For the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company sold receivables of approximately $81 million and $75 million from the factoring arrangements, respectively.

Amounts transferred subject to continuing involvement, which consist principally of collection services, at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, was approximately $140 million and $127 million, respectively.

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Covenant Restrictions

The Credit Agreement and the Indentures limit the Company's ability to incur additional indebtedness. Additional covenants contained in the Credit Agreement and the Indentures, among other things, restrict the ability of the Company to dispose of assets, incur guarantee obligations, prepay other indebtedness, repurchase shares, pay dividends and make other restricted payments, create liens, make equity or debt investments, make acquisitions, modify terms of the indentures under which the Notes are issued, engage in mergers or consolidations, change the business conducted by the Company and its subsidiaries, and engage in certain transactions with affiliates. Such restrictions, together with disruptions in the credit markets, could limit the Company's ability to respond to changing market conditions, fund its capital spending program, provide for unexpected capital investments or take advantage of business opportunities.

Under the terms of the Credit Agreement, the Company must comply with a maximum Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio covenant and a minimum Consolidated Interest Expense Ratio covenant. The Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, which contains the definitions of these covenants, was filed as an exhibit to the Company's Form 8-K filed on October 7, 2014.

The Company must maintain a maximum Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio of less than 4.25 to 1.00. At March 31, 2015, the Company was in compliance with the Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio covenant in the Credit Agreement and the ratio was 2.70 to 1.00.

The Company must also comply with a minimum Consolidated Interest Expense Ratio of 3.00 to 1.00. At March 31, 2015, the Company was in compliance with the minimum Consolidated Interest Expense Ratio covenant in the Credit Agreement and the ratio was 10.49 to 1.00.

As of March 31, 2015, the Company's credit was BB+ by Standard & Poor's and had improved to Ba1 by Moody's Investor Services. Standard & Poor's and Moody's Investor Services' ratings on the Company included a stable outlook.


Capital Investment

The Company’s capital investment in the first three months of 2015 was $60.7 million compared to $59.3 million in the first three months of 2014. The capital investments were primarily due to planned asset upgrades at the U.S.- based mills and continued investments made as part of the European integration.

Environmental Matters

Some of the Company’s current and former facilities are the subject of environmental investigations and remediations resulting from historical operations and the release of hazardous substances or other constituents. Some current and former facilities have a history of industrial usage for which investigation and remediation obligations may be imposed in the future or for which indemnification claims may be asserted against the Company. Also, potential future closures or sales of facilities may necessitate further investigation and may result in future remediation at those facilities. The Company has established reserves for those facilities or issues where liability is probable and the costs are reasonably estimable.

For further discussion of the Company’s environmental matters, see Note 9 in Part I, Item 1, Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of net sales and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from these estimates, and changes in these estimates are recorded when known. The critical accounting policies used by management in the preparation of the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements are those that are important both to the presentation of the Company’s financial condition and results of operations and require significant judgments by management with regard to estimates used.

The Company’s most critical accounting policies which require significant judgment or involve complex estimations are described in GPHC’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.

NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

For a discussion of recent accounting pronouncements impacting the Company, see Note 1 in Part I, Item 1, Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.



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BUSINESS OUTLOOK

Total capital investment for 2015 is expected to be between $220 million and $230 million and is expected to relate principally to the Company’s process capability improvements (approximately $195 million), acquiring capital spares (approximately $20 million), and producing packaging machinery (approximately $10 million).

The Company also expects the following in 2015:

Depreciation and amortization between $275 million and $285 million.

Interest expense of $70 million to $80 million, including approximately $4 million to $6 million of non-cash interest expense associated with amortization of debt issuance costs.

Cash of $350 million to $375 million available for net debt reduction, dividends, and share repurchases, excluding mergers and acquisitions and capital market activity.

Pension plan contributions of $40 million to $60 million.



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ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK

For a discussion of certain market risks related to the Company, see Part II, “Item 7A, Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk”, in GPHC’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. There have been no significant developments with respect to derivatives or exposure to market risk during the first three months of 2015. For a discussion of the Company’s Financial Instruments, Derivatives and Hedging Activities, see GPHC’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources.”


ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

The Company’s management has carried out an evaluation, with the participation of its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Based upon such evaluation, management has concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of March 31, 2015.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There was no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2015 that has materially affected, or is likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

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PART II — OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

The Company is a party to a number of lawsuits arising in the ordinary conduct of its business. Although the timing and outcome of these lawsuits cannot be predicted with certainty, the Company does not believe that disposition of these lawsuits will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. For more information see "Note 9 - Environmental and Legal Matters" in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

There have been no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in GPHC’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

The Company purchases shares of its common stock from time to time pursuant to the share repurchase program announced on February 4, 2015, which allows management to purchase up to $250 million of the Company's issued and outstanding common stock.

During the first quarter of 2015, the Company purchased shares of its common stock through a broker in the open market as follows:

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Period
 
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased
 
Average
Price Paid
Per Share
 
Total Number of Shares
Purchased as Part of
Publicly Announced
Plans or Programs
 
Maximum Number of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under the Publicly Announced Program (a)
 
March 1, 2015 through March 31, 2015
 
279,328

 
$
14.30

 
279,328

 
16,919,230

 
Total
 
279,328

 
$
14.30

 
279,328


16,919,230

   
(a) Based on the closing price of $14.54 on March 31, 2015 and the remaining $246 million allowed under the program to be used to repurchase common stock.





ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

None.

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

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Exhibit Number
Description
 
 
 
 
 
 
10.1
Graphic Packaging Retirement Plan, as amended and restated effective January 1, 2015.
 
 
10.2
Riverwood International Employees Retirement Plan, as amended and restated effective January 1, 2015.
 
 
10.3
Letter Agreement among Graphic Packaging Holding Company, Graphic Packaging International, Inc. and David W. Scheible dated March 9, 2015.
 
 
31.1
Certification required by Rule 13a-14(a).
 
 
31.2
Certification required by Rule 13a-14(a).
 
 
32.1
Certification required by Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code.
 
 
32.2
Certification required by Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code.
 
 
101.INS
XBRL Instance Document
 
 
101.SCH
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
 
 
101.CAL
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase
 
 
101.DEF
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase
 
 
101.LAB
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase
 
 
101.PRE
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase



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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
(Registrant)

 
 
 
/s/ STEPHEN R. SCHERGER
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
April 23, 2015
Stephen R. Scherger
 
 
 
/s/ DEBORAH R. FRANK
Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer (Principal Accounting Officer)
April 23, 2015
Deborah R. Frank




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