Biggest changeSummary of Risks Related to the Ownership of our Ordinary Shares • We are subject to risks specific to ownership of our ordinary shares, including those related to being a “controlled company” within the meaning of the rules of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”), adverse changes in the market value of our shares, lack of current plans for dividend payments, risks related to future issuances of shares, and risks specific to holding shares in a U.K. company. 15 Table of Contents Risks Related to Economic and Market Conditions We are subject to economic, political and other risks associated with international operations that could adversely affect our business and our strategy to capitalize on our global reach.
Biggest changeRisks Related to Economic and Market Conditions We are subject to economic, political and other risks associated with international operations that could adversely affect our business and our strategy to capitalize on our global reach. A substantial portion of our operations are conducted and located outside the U.S.
The costs associated with any protracted delay of a product launch or a recall campaign to remedy defects in products that have been sold could be substantial. We face an inherent risk of product liability claims if alleged product failure results in a claim for injury or loss.
The costs associated with any protracted delay of a product launch or a recall campaign to remedy defects in products that have been sold could be substantial. We face an inherent risk of product liability claims if an alleged product failure results in a claim for injury or loss.
Current U.K. tax law provides that we will be regarded as being U.K. resident for tax purposes from incorporation and shall remain so unless (i) we are concurrently resident of another jurisdiction (applying the tax residence rules of that jurisdiction) that has a double tax treaty with the U.K., and (ii) there is a tiebreaker provision in that tax treaty which allocates exclusive residence to that other jurisdiction.
Current U.K. tax law provides that we will be regarded as being U.K. resident for tax purposes from incorporation and shall remain so unless (i) we are concurrently resident in another jurisdiction (applying the tax residence rules of that jurisdiction) that has a double tax treaty with the U.K., and (ii) there is a tiebreaker provision in that tax treaty which allocates exclusive residence to that other jurisdiction.
Such shares may be issued with, or have attached to them, such powers, designations, preferences, voting rights, rights and terms of redemption, and relative participating, optional or other special rights and qualifications, limitations and restrictions as the Board of Directors may determine, including rights to (a) receive dividends (which may include rights to receive preferential or cumulative dividends), (b) distributions made on a winding up of the Company, and (c) be convertible into, or exchangeable for, shares of any other class or classes or of any other series of the same or any other class or classes of shares, at such price or prices (subject to the Companies Act 2006 (“Companies Act”)) or at such rates of exchange and with such adjustments as may be determined by our Board of Directors.
Such shares may be issued with, or have attached to them, such powers, designations, preferences, voting rights, rights and terms of redemption, and relative participating, optional or other special rights and qualifications, limitations and restrictions as the Board may determine, including rights to (a) receive dividends (which may include rights to receive preferential or cumulative dividends), (b) distributions made on a winding up of the Company, and (c) be convertible into, or exchangeable for, shares of any other class or classes or of any other series of the same or any other class or classes of shares, at such price or prices (subject to the Companies Act 2006 (“Companies Act”)) or at such rates of exchange and with such adjustments as may be determined by our Board.
Further, the insurance we carry may not be adequate to protect against unforeseen and damaging events, such as work stoppages and damage to facilities or equipment. We supply products to industries that are subject to inherent risks, including equipment defects, malfunctions and failures, and natural disasters (including as a result of climate change), which could expose us to liability.
Further, the insurance we carry may not be adequate to protect against unforeseen and damaging events, such as work stoppages and damage to facilities, equipment or reputation. We supply products to industries that are subject to inherent risks, including equipment defects, malfunctions and failures, and natural disasters (including as a result of climate change), which could expose us to liability.
Although we believe our tax estimates are reasonable, including our estimates of reserves for unrecognized tax benefits related to the implementation of our European corporate center in Fiscal 2019, any changes in our judgments and interpretation of tax laws or any material differences as a result of the audits could result in unfavorable tax adjustments that have an adverse effect on our overall tax liability.
Although we believe our tax estimates are reasonable, including our estimates of reserves for unrecognized tax benefits related to the implementation of our European corporate center in 2019, any changes in our judgments and interpretation of tax laws or any material differences as a result of the audits could result in unfavorable tax adjustments that have an adverse effect on our overall tax liability.
We may pursue strategic transactions, including acquisitions, divestitures, restructurings, joint ventures, strategic alliances or investments, which could create risks and present unforeseen integration obstacles or costs. We consider strategic transactions on an ongoing basis, and regularly discuss potential acquisitions of complementary businesses or assets to expand our product portfolio and geographic presence, certain of which may be material.
We may pursue strategic transactions, including acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures, strategic alliances or investments, which could create risks and present unforeseen integration obstacles or costs. We consider strategic transactions on an ongoing basis, and regularly discuss potential acquisitions of complementary businesses or assets to expand our product portfolio and geographic presence, certain of which may be material.
Our Board of Directors may take into account general economic conditions, our financial condition and results of operations, our available cash and current and anticipated cash needs, capital requirements, contractual, legal, tax and regulatory restrictions and implications on the payment of dividends by us to our shareholders or by our subsidiaries to us, and such other factors as our Board of Directors may deem relevant.
Our Board may take into account general economic conditions, our financial condition and results of operations, our available cash and current and anticipated cash needs, capital requirements, contractual, legal, tax and regulatory restrictions and implications on the payment of dividends by us to our shareholders or by our subsidiaries to us, and such other factors as our Board may deem relevant.
Our long-term operating results depend substantially upon our ability to continually develop, introduce, and market new and innovative products, to modify existing products, to respond to technological change, and to customize certain products to meet customer requirements and evolving sustainability and industry standards. The development of new product introductions and product innovations may require significant investment by us.
Our long-term operating results depend upon our ability to continually develop, introduce, and market new and innovative products, to modify existing products, to respond to technological change, and to customize certain products to meet customer requirements and evolving sustainability and industry standards. The development of new product introductions and product innovations may require significant investment by us.
Information systems failure may disrupt our business and result in financial loss and liability to our customers. We rely on information technology networks and systems, including the Cloud and third party service providers, to process, transmit and store electronic information, and to manage or support a variety of business processes and activities.
Information systems failure may disrupt our business and result in financial loss and liability to our customers. We rely on information technology networks and systems, including the cloud-computing and third-party service providers, to process, transmit and store electronic information, and to manage or support a variety of business processes and activities.
Competitors may use our technologies in jurisdictions where we do not pursue and obtain patent protection to develop their own products and further, may export otherwise infringing products to territories where we have patent protection, but where the ability to enforce our patent rights is not as strong as in the U.S.
Competitors may also use our technologies in jurisdictions where we do not pursue and obtain patent protection to develop their own products and further, may export otherwise infringing products to territories where we have patent protection, but where the ability to enforce our patent rights is not as strong as in the U.S.
Our articles of association, as amended, authorize us to issue, subject to the limit therein on the authority of our Board of Directors to allot new shares of the Company, without the approval of the holders of our ordinary shares, a new class or classes of shares, including preference shares, with nominal value in any currency.
Our articles of association, as amended, authorize us to issue, subject to the limit therein on the authority of our Board to allot new shares of the Company, without the approval of the holders of our ordinary shares, a new class or classes of shares, including preference shares, with nominal value in any currency.
Management has identified and prioritized critical risks based on the severity and likelihood of each risk and assigned risk owners to address each major identified risk area and lead action plans to monitor and mitigate risks, where possible. Our Board of Directors provides oversight of the ERM process and regularly reviews identified critical risks.
Management has identified and prioritized critical risks based on the severity and likelihood of each risk and assigned risk owners to address each major identified risk area and lead action plans to monitor and mitigate risks, where possible. Our Board provides oversight of the ERM process and regularly reviews identified critical risks.
In connection with the implementation and maintenance of our cost reduction measures, we may face delays in anticipated workforce reductions, a decline in employee morale and a potential inability to meet operational targets due to an inability to retain or recruit key employees.
In connection with the implementation and maintenance of our cost reduction and restructuring measures, we may face delays in anticipated workforce reductions, a decline in employee morale and a potential inability to meet operational targets due to an inability to retain or recruit key employees.
Even if we do obtain patents or other intellectual property rights in our new technologies and inventions, the scope of such rights may not be sufficiently broad to afford us any significant commercial advantage over our competitors.
Even if we obtain patents or other intellectual property rights in our new technologies and inventions, the scope of such rights may not be sufficiently broad to afford us any significant commercial advantage over our competitors.
Specifically, our high level of debt could have important consequences, including the following: • making it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to our debt; • limiting our ability to obtain additional financing to fund future working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions or other general corporate requirements; 27 Table of Contents • requiring a substantial portion of our cash flows to be dedicated to debt service payments instead of other purposes, thereby reducing the amount of cash flows available for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions and other general corporate purposes; • increasing our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions; • exposing us to the risk of increased interest rates as certain of our borrowings are at variable rates of interest; • limiting our flexibility in planning for and reacting to changes in the industry in which we compete; • placing us at a disadvantage compared to other, less leveraged competitors; and • increasing our cost of borrowing.
Specifically, our high level of debt could have important consequences, including the following: • making it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to our debt; • limiting our ability to obtain additional financing to fund future working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions or other general corporate requirements; • requiring a substantial portion of our cash flows to be dedicated to debt service payments instead of other purposes, thereby reducing the amount of cash flows available for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions and other general corporate purposes; • increasing our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions; • exposing us to the risk of increased interest rates as certain of our borrowings are at variable rates of interest; • limiting our flexibility in planning for and reacting to changes in the industry in which we compete; • placing us at a disadvantage compared to other, less leveraged competitors; and • increasing our cost of borrowing.
The loss of the services of senior management and other key personnel or the failure to attract additional personnel and implement succession plans as required could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 25 Table of Contents We may be materially adversely impacted by work stoppages and other labor matters, including labor shortages and turnover.
The loss of the services of senior management and other key personnel or the failure to attract additional personnel and implement succession plans as required could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 22 Table of Contents We may be materially adversely impacted by work stoppages and other labor matters, including labor shortages and turnover.
Our Sponsor has an interest in over 50% of our voting share capital, and therefore, if the Takeover Panel were to determine that we were subject to the Takeover Code, our Sponsor would be able to increase its aggregate holding in us without triggering the requirement under Rule 9 of the Takeover Code to make a cash offer for the outstanding shares in the issuer.
Our Sponsor has an interest in over 30% of our voting share capital, and therefore, if the Takeover Panel were to determine that we were subject to the Takeover Code, our Sponsor would be able to increase its aggregate holding in us without triggering the requirement under Rule 9 of the Takeover Code to make a cash offer for the outstanding shares in the issuer.
As the present and former operator of industrial properties that use and generate hazardous materials, we could be subject to additional liability for environmental contamination in the future, regardless of whether we caused such contamination. Additionally, most states have passed laws that regulate or limit the use of aftermarket products in certain types of repair work.
As the present and former operator of industrial properties that use and generate hazardous materials, we could be subject to additional liability for environmental contamination in the future, regardless of whether we caused such contamination. Additionally, most U.S. states have passed laws that regulate or limit the use of aftermarket products in certain types of repair work.
Increased unionization, new labor legislation or changes in regulations could disrupt our operations, reduce our profitability, or interfere with the ability of our management to focus on executing our business strategies. Additionally, we have experienced, and may continue to experience, labor shortages, turnover and increased labor costs due to the ongoing pandemic or general macroeconomic factors.
Increased unionization, new labor legislation or changes in regulations could disrupt our operations, reduce our profitability, or interfere with the ability of our management to focus on executing our business strategies. Additionally, we have experienced, and may continue to experience, labor shortages, turnover and increased labor costs due to general macroeconomic factors.
Although we routinely conduct anti-counterfeiting activities in multiple jurisdictions, we have encountered counterfeit reproductions of our products that infringe on our intellectual property rights. We expect pirates to continue counterfeiting certain of our products using our trademarks, which has led to, and will likely continue to cause, loss of sales.
For example, although we routinely conduct anti-counterfeiting activities in multiple jurisdictions, we have encountered counterfeit reproductions of our products that infringe on our intellectual property rights. We expect pirates to continue counterfeiting certain of our products using our trademarks, which has led to, and will likely continue to cause, loss of sales.
The Audit Committee also reviews major financial risk exposures and the steps management has taken to monitor and control them. Our goal is to proactively manage risks in a structured approach and in conjunction with the strategic planning process, with the intent to preserve and enhance shareholder value.
The Audit Committee of our Board also reviews major financial risk exposures and the steps management has taken to monitor and control them. Our goal is to proactively manage risks in a structured approach and in conjunction with the strategic planning process, with the intent to preserve and enhance shareholder value.
Our shareholders adopted a resolution authorizing our Board of Directors to allot our ordinary shares and to grant rights to subscribe for or convert any security into such shares for the consideration and on the terms and conditions established by our Board of Directors in its sole discretion, whether in connection with acquisitions or otherwise.
Our shareholders adopted a resolution authorizing our Board to allot our ordinary shares and to grant rights to subscribe for or convert any security into such shares for the consideration and on the terms and conditions established by our Board in its sole discretion, whether in connection with acquisitions or otherwise.
Failure to comply with HSE laws and regulations could have significant consequences on our business and operations, including the imposition of substantial fines and sanctions for violations, injunctive relief (including requirements that we limit or cease operations at affected facilities), and negative publicity.
Failure to comply with such laws and regulations could have significant consequences on our business and operations, including the imposition of substantial fines and sanctions for violations, injunctive relief (including requirements that we limit or cease operations at affected facilities), and negative publicity.
Risks Related to Our Indebtedness Our substantial leverage could adversely affect our financial condition, our ability to raise additional capital to fund our operations, our ability to operate our business, our ability to react to changes in the economy, or our industry or our ability to pay our debts, and could divert our cash flow from operations to debt payments.
Risks Related to Our Indebtedness Our substantial leverage and subsidiary structure could adversely affect our financial condition, our ability to raise additional capital to fund our operations, our ability to operate our business, our ability to react to changes in the economy, or our industry or our ability to pay our debts, and could divert our cash flow from operations to debt payments.
Failure to successfully identify, consummate or integrate strategic transactions in a timely and cost-effective manner could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operation. 20 Table of Contents We have investments in joint ventures that limit our ability to manage third-party risks associated with these ventures.
Failure to successfully identify, consummate or integrate strategic transactions in a timely and cost-effective manner could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operation. We have investments in joint ventures that limit our ability to manage third-party risks associated with these ventures.
Our brand has worldwide recognition and our success is linked to our ability to maintain and enhance our brand image and reputation. In particular, we believe that maintaining and enhancing the Gates brand is critical to maintaining and expanding our customer base.
Our brand has worldwide recognition and our success may be linked to our ability to maintain and enhance our brand image and reputation. In particular, we believe that maintaining and enhancing the Gates brand is critical to maintaining and expanding our customer base.
If a customer defaults on its obligations to us, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. Societal responses to sustainability issues, including those related to climate change, could adversely affect our business and performance, including indirectly through impacts on our customers.
If a customer defaults on its obligations to us, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. Societal responses to sustainability issues, including those related to climate change, could adversely affect our business and performance, including indirectly through impacts on our customers and value chain partners.
In addition, our Sponsor may have an interest in our pursuing acquisitions, divestitures and other transactions that, in their judgment, could enhance their investment, even though such transactions might involve risks to us and our shareholders.
In addition, our Sponsor may have an interest in our pursuing acquisitions, divestitures and other transactions that, in its judgment, could enhance its investment, even though such transactions might involve risks to us and our shareholders.
Because a significant percentage of our operating income in recent years has come from these regions, adverse fluctuations in the operating results in these regions could have a disproportionate impact on our results of operations in future periods.
Because a significant percentage of our operating income in recent years has come from these regions, adverse fluctuations in the operating results in these regions could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations in future periods.
Increased global cyber security vulnerabilities, threats, computer viruses and more sophisticated and targeted cyber-related attacks (such as the recent increasing use of “ransomware” and phishing attacks), as well as cyber-security failures resulting from human error, catastrophic events (such as fires, floods, hurricanes and tornadoes), and technological errors, pose a risk to our systems, products and data as well as potentially to our employees’, customers', partners', suppliers' and third-party service providers' systems and data.
Increased global cyber security vulnerabilities, threats, computer viruses and more sophisticated and targeted cyber-related attacks (such as the recent increasing use of “ransomware” and phishing attacks), as well as cyber-security failures resulting from human error, catastrophic events (such as fires, floods, hurricanes and tornadoes), and technological errors, pose a risk to our systems (including third-party systems utilized by us), products and data as well as potentially to our employees’, customers', partners', suppliers' and third-party service providers' systems and data.
The loss of one or more of these customers or other major customers, a deterioration in our relationship with any of them, or their failure to pay amounts due to us could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
The loss of one or more of these customers or other major customers, a deterioration in our relationship with any of them, 17 Table of Contents or their failure to pay amounts due to us could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
While we have no reason to believe that we will be impacted by work stoppages and other labor matters, we cannot ensure that future issues with our labor unions or with the labor unions of our customers and vendors will be resolved favorably or that we will not encounter future strikes, work stoppages, or other types of conflicts with labor unions or our employees.
While we have no reason to believe that we will be impacted by work stoppages and other labor matters, we cannot ensure that future issues with our labor unions or works councils, or with the labor unions of our customers and vendors will be resolved favorably or that we will not encounter future strikes, work stoppages, or other types of labor conflicts.
The laws and regulations in these jurisdictions are inherently complex and the Company and its subsidiaries will be obliged to make judgments and interpretations about the application of these laws and regulations to the Company and its subsidiaries and their operations and businesses, including those related to any restructuring of intercompany operations, holdings or financings; the valuation of intercompany services; cross-border payments between affiliated companies; and the related effects on income tax, VAT and transfer tax.
The laws and regulations in these jurisdictions are inherently complex and the Company and its subsidiaries will be obliged to make judgments and interpretations about the application of these laws and regulations to the Company and its subsidiaries and their operations and businesses, including those related to any restructuring of intercompany operations, holdings or financings; the valuation of intercompany services; cross-border payments between affiliated companies; and the related effects on income tax, value added tax (“VAT”) and transfer tax.
We operate in a number of jurisdictions that pose a high risk of potential anti-corruption violations, and we participate in joint ventures and relationships with third parties whose actions could potentially subject us to liability under anti-corruption laws. 23 Table of Contents We are also subject to other laws and regulations governing our operations, including regulations administered by the U.S.
We operate in a number of jurisdictions that pose a high risk of potential anti-corruption violations, and we participate in joint ventures and relationships with third parties whose actions could potentially subject us to liability under anti-corruption laws. We are subject to other laws and regulations governing our operations, including regulations administered by the U.S.
Additionally, our businesses compete globally for key production inputs. The availability of qualified suppliers and of key inputs may be disrupted by market disturbances or any number of geopolitical factors, including political unrest and significant weather events. Such disruptions may require additional capital or operating expenditure by us or force reductions in our production volumes.
Additionally, our businesses compete globally for raw materials and key production inputs. The availability of qualified suppliers and of key inputs may be disrupted by market disturbances or any number of geopolitical factors, including political unrest and significant weather events. Such disruptions may require additional capital or operating expenditures by us or force reductions in our production volumes.
However, if those ordinary shares are redeposited into DTC or any other depositary receipt system or clearance service, the redeposit will attract stamp duty or SDRT at the rate of 1.5%, which is generally to be paid by the transferor.
However, if those ordinary shares are redeposited into DTC or any other depositary receipt system or clearance service, the redeposit will generally attract stamp duty or SDRT, at the rate of 1.5% of the value of the shares, which will normally be paid by the transferor.
However, there is no assurance that our efforts have been and will be effective in ensuring our compliance with all applicable anti-corruption laws or other legal requirements.
However, there is no assurance that our efforts have been and will be effective in ensuring that we will comply with all applicable anti-corruption laws or other legal requirements.
In particular, for so long as our Sponsor continues to own a significant percentage of our ordinary shares, such Sponsor will be able to cause or prevent a change of control of our company or a change in the composition of our board of directors and could preclude any unsolicited acquisition of our company.
In particular, for so long as our Sponsor continues to own a significant percentage of our ordinary shares, such Sponsor may be able to prevent a change of control of our company or a change in the composition of our Board and could preclude any unsolicited acquisition of our company.
HSE laws have become increasingly stringent and stricter interpretation or enforcement of new and existing HSE laws could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of our operations and product demand.
HSE and sustainability related laws and regulations have become increasingly stringent and new laws and regulations or stricter interpretation or enforcement of existing laws and regulations could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of our operations and product demand.
The concentration of ownership could deprive other shareholders of an opportunity to receive a premium for ordinary shares as part of a sale of our company and ultimately might affect the market price of our ordinary shares. Our Sponsor and its affiliates engage in a broad spectrum of activities.
The concentration of ownership could deprive other shareholders of an opportunity to receive a premium for ordinary shares as part of a sale of our company and ultimately might affect the market price of our ordinary shares. Our Sponsor engages in a broad spectrum of activities.
A transfer of title in the ordinary shares from within the DTC system to a purchaser out of DTC and any subsequent transfers that occur entirely outside the DTC system, will generally attract a charge to stamp duty or SDRT at a rate of 0.5% of any consideration payable for such transfer, which is payable by the transferee of the ordinary shares.
A transfer of title in the ordinary shares held within DTC to a purchaser out of DTC and any subsequent transfers that occur outside the DTC system, will generally attract a charge to U.K. stamp duty or SDRT at a rate of 0.5% of any consideration payable for such transfer, which is payable by the transferee of the ordinary shares.
Our operations, products and properties are subject to extensive foreign, federal, state, local and provincial laws and regulations relating to HSE protection around the world.
Our operations, products and properties are subject to extensive foreign, federal, state, local and provincial laws and regulations relating to HSE and sustainability matters around the world.
In the ordinary course of their business activities, our Sponsor and its affiliates may engage in activities where their interests conflict with our interests or those of our shareholders.
In the ordinary course of its business activities, our Sponsor may engage in activities where its interests conflict with our interests or those of our shareholders.
Moreover, environmental, social and governance topics and activities have been the subject of increased focus by certain investors and regulators. Our business could be adversely impacted if we fail to achieve any of these objectives or if the reputation or image of our brand is tarnished or receives negative publicity.
Moreover, sustainability topics and activities have been the subject of increased focus by certain of our stakeholders and regulators. Our business could be adversely impacted if we fail to achieve any of these objectives or if the reputation or image of our brand is tarnished or receives negative publicity.
These information technology networks and systems may be susceptible to damage, disruptions or shutdowns due to failures during the process of upgrading or replacing software, databases or components, power outages, hardware failures or computer viruses.
These information technology networks and systems may be susceptible to damage, disruptions or shutdowns due to failures during the process of upgrading or replacing software, databases or components, power outages, hardware failures, malware and other vulnerabilities.
Other countries have enacted or are enacting data localization and privacy laws that require data to stay within their borders, as well as requiring that data subjects provide clear and concise consent on how collected data will be utilized.
Other countries such as China, India, Thailand, Brazil and Argentina have enacted or are enacting data localization and privacy laws that require data to stay within their borders, as well as requiring that data subjects provide clear and concise consent on how collected data will be utilized.
These restrictions limit the ability of certain of our subsidiaries to, among other things: • incur or guarantee additional debt or issue disqualified stock or preferred stock; • pay dividends and make other distributions on, or redeem or repurchase, capital stock; • make certain investments; • incur certain liens; • enter into transactions with affiliates; • merge or consolidate; • enter into agreements that restrict the ability of restricted subsidiaries to make dividends or other payments; • designate restricted subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries; and • transfer or sell assets.
These restrictions limit the ability of certain of our subsidiaries to, among other things: incur or guarantee additional debt or issue disqualified stock or preferred stock; pay dividends and make other distributions on, or redeem or repurchase, capital stock; make certain investments; incur certain liens; enter into transactions with affiliates; merge or consolidate; or transfer or sell assets.
The impact of these cost-reduction actions on our sales and profitability may be influenced by many factors and we may not be able to maintain the level of cost savings that we have achieved depending on our ability to successfully complete these efforts.
The impact of these cost-reduction and restructuring actions on our sales and profitability may be influenced by many factors and we may not be able to maintain the level of cost savings that we have achieved.
HSE laws vary by jurisdiction but generally govern air emissions, wastewater discharges, material handling and transportation, waste management and disposal, substances in products, and workplace health and safety, as well as the investigation and clean-up of contaminated sites.
HSE and sustainability laws vary by jurisdiction but generally govern air emissions, wastewater discharges, material handling and transportation, waste management and disposal, product stewardship, toxicity and hazardous substances, and workplace health and safety, as well as the investigation and clean-up of contaminated sites.
DTC generally has discretion to cease to act as a depository and clearing agency for the ordinary shares including to the extent that any changes in U.K. law (including changes as a result of the U.K.’s decision to leave the E.U.) changes the stamp duty or SDRT position in relation to the ordinary shares.
DTC generally has discretion to cease to act as a depository and clearing agency for the ordinary shares including to the extent that any changes in U.K. law affect the stamp duty or SDRT position in relation to the ordinary shares.
Meeting or exceeding many government-mandated safety standards is costly and requires manufacturers to remedy defects related to product safety through recall campaigns if the products do not comply with safety, health or environmental standards.
Meeting or exceeding many government-mandated product safety and stewardship standards is costly and requires manufacturers to remedy defects, including through recall campaigns if the products do not comply with HSE standards.
In addition, any event of default or declaration of acceleration under one debt instrument could also result in an event of default under one or more of our other debt instruments. 29 Table of Contents Risks Related to the Ownership of our Ordinary Shares Our Sponsor and its affiliates control us and their interests may conflict with ours in the future.
In addition, any event of default or declaration of acceleration under one debt instrument could also result in an event of default under one or more of our other debt instruments. 25 Table of Contents Risks Related to the Ownership of our Ordinary Shares Our Sponsor has significant influence over us and its interests may conflict with ours in the future.
Certain of our employees in the U.S., the U.K., Canada, Mexico, Germany and Japan are participants in defined benefit pension plans which we sponsor and/or to which we have contribution obligations. As of January 1, 2022, the net pension obligation of our underfunded defined benefit pension plans globally was $66.8 million on a Topic 715 “Compensation-Retirement Benefits” basis.
Certain of our employees in the U.S., the U.K., Canada, Mexico, Germany and Japan are participants in defined benefit pension plans which we sponsor and/or to which we have contribution obligations. As of December 30, 2023, the net pension obligation of our underfunded defined benefit pension plans globally was $61.7 million on a Topic 715 “Compensation-Retirement Benefits” basis.
We have been implementing cost reduction actions in all of our businesses and have discontinued product lines, divested non-core businesses, consolidated manufacturing operations and reduced our employee population in some locations.
We have been implementing cost reduction and restructuring actions in all of our businesses and have discontinued product lines, consolidated or relocated manufacturing operations and reduced our employee population in some locations.
In addition, there is significant demand in our industry for skilled workers. It cannot be assured that we will be able to retain all of our current senior management personnel and attract and retain other necessary personnel, including skilled workers, necessary for the development of our business.
It cannot be assured that we will be able to retain all our current senior management personnel and attract and retain other necessary personnel, including skilled workers, necessary for the development of our business.
The OECD has undertaken a new project to address the tax challenges of the digitization of the economy.
The OECD has undertaken another project to address the tax challenges of the digitization of the economy.
Accordingly, our business and results of operations, as well as the business and results of operations of our vendors and customers, are subject to risks associated with doing business internationally, including: • changing economic conditions in the global and regional end markets we serve, which could impact the level of demand for our products, as a substantial portion of our revenues are derived from customers in cyclical industries that typically are adversely affected by downward economic cycles; • macroeconomic factors beyond the Company’s control, such as the current volatility around material and logistics availability, inflation, supply chain and labor challenges; • political, social or economic instability, civil unrest, terrorist attacks, conflicts or war, public health crises and natural disasters (including as a result of climate change) that may disrupt economic activities in affected countries; • imposition of new or additional sanctions, tariffs or other trade restrictions or embargoes, as well as import and export licensing and control requirements; • volatility of global financial markets, including persisting concerns regarding the debt burden of certain European countries, interest rate fluctuations and hyperinflation or deflation in the countries in which we operate; • exchange rate fluctuations, as well as currency restructurings, the imposition of currency restrictions, and limitations on repatriation of earnings, that could affect our ability to realize a profit or our ability to readily access global cash balances; • partial or total expropriation by local, state or national governments; • the ability to comply with or effect of complying with complex and changing laws, regulations and policies of foreign governments, including differing and, in some cases, more stringent labor and environmental regulations; • differing local product preferences and product requirements; and • difficulties involved in staffing and managing widespread operations, including challenges in administering and enforcing corporate policies, which may be different than the normal business practices of local cultures.
Accordingly, our business and results of operations, as well as the business and results of operations of our vendors and customers, are subject to risks associated with doing business internationally, including: • changing economic conditions in the global and regional end markets we serve, which could impact the level of demand for our products, as a portion of our revenues are derived from customers in cyclical industries that typically are adversely affected by downward economic cycles; • macroeconomic factors beyond the Company’s control, such as recent significant volatility around material and logistics availability, inflation, supply chain and labor challenges; • political, social or economic instability, civil unrest, terrorist attacks, conflicts or war (such as the ongoing conflicts in Eastern Europe and the Middle East), public health crises (including pandemics), natural disasters (including as a result of climate change), widespread cybersecurity incidents, and other catastrophic events may disrupt economic activities (including demand for and production and distribution of our products) and our workforce in affected countries or globally; • imposition of additional sanctions, tariffs or other trade restrictions or embargoes, as well as import and export licensing and control requirements; • volatility of global financial markets, including interest rate fluctuations and hyperinflation or deflation in the countries in which we operate; • exchange rate fluctuations, as well as currency restructurings, the imposition of currency restrictions, and limitations on repatriation of earnings, that could affect our ability to realize a profit or our ability to readily access global cash balances; • partial or total expropriation by local, state or national governments; • compliance with or effect of complying with complex and changing laws, regulations and policies of foreign governments, including differing and, in some cases, more stringent labor, sustainability (such as environmental, social, and governance (“ESG”) related) and HSE regulations as well as limitations on our ability to enforce our legal rights and remedies; 14 Table of Contents • differing local product preferences and product requirements; and • difficulties involved in staffing and managing widespread operations, including challenges in enforcing corporate policies, which may be different than the normal business practices of local cultures.
Despite our current level of indebtedness, we may be able to incur substantially more debt and enter into other transactions which could further exacerbate the risks to our financial condition described above. We may be able to incur significant additional indebtedness in the future.
Despite our current level of indebtedness, we may be able to incur substantially more debt and enter into other transactions which could further exacerbate the risks to our financial condition described above. We may be able to incur significant additional indebtedness in the future to finance working capital, capital expenditures, investments, acquisitions, or for other purposes.
In addition, GHGs regulations could impact oil and gas production, a key demand driver of our industrial end markets, and reduce demand for our products by driving down the use of fossil fuels.
GHG regulations and carbon taxes could also impact oil and gas production, a key demand driver of our industrial end markets, and reduce demand for our products by driving down the use of fossil fuels.
Additionally, we have reserved 12,500,000 ordinary shares for issuance under our Omnibus Incentive Plan. Any ordinary shares that we issue, including under our Omnibus Incentive Plan or other equity incentive plans that we may adopt in the future, would dilute the percentage ownership held by the holders of our ordinary shares.
Any ordinary shares that we issue, including under our Omnibus Incentive Plan or other equity incentive plans that we may adopt in the future, would dilute the percentage ownership held by the holders of our ordinary shares.
We face an inherent business risk of exposure to various types of claims, lawsuits and proceedings. We may be involved in tax, intellectual property, product liability, product warranty and environmental claims and lawsuits, and other legal, antitrust and regulatory proceedings arising in the ordinary course of our business.
We may be involved in tax, intellectual property, product liability, product warranty, environmental and antitrust claims and lawsuits, and other legal, antitrust and regulatory proceedings arising in the ordinary course of our business.
Supplier consolidation and the increase in low-cost country sourcing may increase the likelihood of receiving defective materials, thereby increasing the risk of alleged product failure and resulting liability claims. Litigation is inherently unpredictable and these claims, regardless of their outcome, may be costly, divert management attention and adversely affect our reputation.
The likelihood of receiving defective materials and related product failure and resulting liability claims may increase due changes in our supplier network, such as low-cost country sourcing. Litigation is inherently unpredictable and these claims, regardless of their outcome, may be costly, divert management attention and adversely affect our reputation.
Bribery Act of 2010, and other anti-corruption laws that generally prohibit employees and intermediaries from making improper payments for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business or gaining some other business advantage.
Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended (the “FCPA”), the U.K. Bribery Act of 2010, and other anti-corruption laws that generally prohibit employees and intermediaries from making improper payments for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business or gaining some other business advantage.
Labor is a primary component of operating our business. As of January 1, 2022, we had approximately 15,050 full time employees worldwide. Certain of our employees are represented by various unions under collective bargaining agreements, or by various regional works councils.
Labor is a primary component of operating our business. As of December 30, 2023, we had approximately 14,700 full time employees worldwide. Certain of our employees are represented by various unions under collective bargaining agreements, or by various regional works councils.
The levels of inventory maintained by our distributors and other channel partners, and changes in those levels, such as destocking, can also significantly impact our results of operations in any given period. In addition, the consolidation of channel partners and customers in certain of our end markets could adversely impact our profitability.
The levels of inventory maintained by our distributors and other channel partners, and changes in those levels, such as destocking, can also significantly impact our results of operations in any given period.
If these organizations decide not to test a particular vehicle product, or in the event that such organizations decide that a particular vehicle product does not meet applicable quality or safety standards, we may decide to discontinue sales of such product or insurance companies may decide to discontinue authorization of repairs using such product.
If these organizations decide not to test a particular vehicle product, or in the event that such organizations decide that a particular vehicle product does not meet applicable quality or safety standards, we may incur additional costs to meet such standards or experience a decrease in sales of such products, including as a result of a decision to discontinue sales of such product or insurance companies deciding to discontinue authorization of repairs using such product.
This is known as the “residency test.” Under the Takeover Code, the Takeover Panel will determine whether we have our place of central management and control in the U.K. by looking at various factors, including the structure of our Board of Directors, the functions of the directors and where they are resident. 32 Table of Contents If at the time of a takeover offer, the Takeover Panel determines that we have our place of central management and control in the U.K., we would be subject to a number of rules and restrictions, including but not limited to the following: (i) our ability to enter into deal protection arrangements with a bidder would be extremely limited; (ii) we might not, without the approval of our shareholders, be able to perform certain actions that could have the effect of frustrating an offer, such as issuing shares or carrying out acquisitions or disposals; and (iii) we would be obliged to provide equality of information to all bona fide competing bidders.
If at the time of a takeover offer, the Takeover Panel determines that we have our place of central management and control in the U.K., we would be subject to a number of rules and restrictions, including but not limited to the following: (i) our ability to enter into deal protection arrangements with a bidder would be extremely limited; (ii) we might not, without the approval of our shareholders, be able to perform certain actions that could have the effect of frustrating an offer, such as issuing shares or carrying out acquisitions or disposals; and (iii) we would be obliged to provide equality of information to all bona fide competing bidders.
If we are unsuccessful in challenging such products on the basis of patent, trademark or other intellectual property misappropriation, continued sales of such imitating products may adversely affect market share and impact customer perceptions and demand. 22 Table of Contents Failure to develop, obtain, enforce and protect intellectual property rights could adversely affect our business.
If we are unsuccessful in challenging such products on the basis of patent, trademark or other intellectual property misappropriation, continued sales of such imitating products may adversely affect 21 Table of Contents our market share and impact customer perceptions and demand for our products.
Such events could adversely affect our business. 24 Table of Contents Risks Related to Cybersecurity and Information Systems Cyber-security vulnerabilities, threats and more sophisticated and targeted computer crimes could pose a risk to our systems, networks, products, solutions, services and data.
Risks Related to Cybersecurity and Information Systems Cyber-security vulnerabilities, threats and more sophisticated and targeted computer crimes could pose a risk to our systems, networks, products, solutions, services and data.
Existing or new laws and regulations, including but not limited to those relating to HSE concerns, and the sale of aftermarket products, may prohibit, burden, restrict or make significantly more costly the sale of our products.
Risks Related to Legal and Regulatory Matters Existing or new laws and regulations, including but not limited to those relating to HSE and sustainability matters, may prohibit, burden, restrict or make significantly more costly the sale of our products and the operation of our business.
We are a holding company, and our consolidated assets are owned by, and our business is conducted through, our subsidiaries. Earnings from these subsidiaries are our primary source of funds for debt payments and operating expenses. If our subsidiaries are restricted from making distributions, our ability to meet our debt service obligations or otherwise fund our operations may be impaired.
Earnings from these subsidiaries are our primary source of funds for debt payments and operating expenses. If our subsidiaries are restricted from making distributions, our ability to meet our debt service obligations or otherwise fund our operations may be impaired.
However, we could, in the future, be subject to various claims, lawsuits and proceedings, including, amongst others, tax, intellectual property, product liability, product warranty, environmental claims and antitrust claims, and we may incur judgments or enter into settlements of lawsuits and proceedings that are not covered or not sufficiently covered by insurance.
However, we could, in the future, be subject to various claims, lawsuits and proceedings, and we may incur judgments or enter into settlements of lawsuits and proceedings that are not covered or not sufficiently covered by insurance.
We have no current plans to pay dividends on our ordinary shares. The declaration, amount and payment of any future dividends on our ordinary shares will be at the sole discretion of our board of directors.
The declaration, amount and payment of any future dividends on our ordinary shares will be at the sole discretion of our Board.
Although we rely on U.S. and foreign intellectual property rights, procuring, enforcing, and defending patents on our products in all jurisdictions throughout the world would be prohibitively expensive, and the laws of certain foreign countries may not protect or allow enforcement of intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the U.S.
In this regard, we rely on U.S. and foreign patent, trademark, copyright, and trade secret laws, as well as license agreements, nondisclosure agreements, and confidentiality and other contractual provisions; however, procuring, enforcing, and defending patents on our products in all jurisdictions throughout the world would be prohibitively expensive, and the laws of certain foreign countries may not protect or allow enforcement of intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the U.S.
The credit agreements that govern our senior secured term loan facilities and the indenture that governs our notes impose significant operating and financial restrictions on our subsidiaries.
Certain of our debt agreements impose significant operating and financial restrictions on our subsidiaries and us that could prevent us from capitalizing on business opportunities. The credit agreements that govern our senior secured term loan facilities and the indenture that governs our notes impose significant operating and financial restrictions on our subsidiaries.
Sales of a substantial number of our ordinary shares in the public market, or the perception that these sales could occur, could substantially decrease the market price of our ordinary shares. 31 Table of Contents Pursuant to a registration rights agreement, we granted our Sponsor the right to cause us, in certain instances, at our expense, to file registration statements under the Securities Act covering resales of our ordinary shares held by them or to participate in future registration of securities by us.
Pursuant to a registration rights agreement, we granted our Sponsor the right to cause us, in certain instances, at our expense, to file registration statements under the Securities Act covering resales of our ordinary shares held by them or to participate in future registration of securities by us.
Failure to accurately forecast demand or meet significant increases in demand could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and operating results. We may not be able to maintain and enhance our strong brand on which we depend.
Failure to accurately forecast demand or meet significant increases in demand could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and operating results.
If any of our manufacturing facilities, supply chains, distribution systems or technology systems were to experience a catastrophic loss or ongoing closure or disruption due to adverse weather, natural or man-made disasters (including as a result of climate change), labor unrest, public health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, terrorist attacks, cyberattacks, significant mechanical failure of our equipment or other catastrophic event, it could result in interruption of our business, a potential loss of customers and sales, or significantly increased operating costs, including large repair and replacement expenses.
If any of our manufacturing facilities, supply chains, distribution systems or technology systems were to experience a catastrophic loss or ongoing closure or disruption due to adverse weather or natural disasters (including as a result of climate change), labor unrest, public health crises such as pandemics, terrorist attacks or armed conflicts, cyberattacks, power loss, telecommunications failure, significant mechanical failure of our equipment or other catastrophic event or government responses thereto, it could adversely affect our employees, data centers or critical business of information technology systems, our ability to produce and distribute our products or conduct normal business operations, and our reputation and, ultimately, result in a potential loss of customers and sales or significantly increased operating costs, including large repair and replacement expenses.
For example, the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”), which greatly increases the jurisdictional reach of European Union law and adds a broad array of requirements for handling personal data, including the public disclosure of significant data breaches, became effective in May 2018, and several states in the U.S. have adopted similar legislation.
For example, the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) adopted by the European Union (“EU”) greatly increased the jurisdictional reach of EU law and added a broad array of requirements for handling personal data, including the public disclosure of significant data breaches, and many other countries and several states in the U.S. have proposed or adopted similar legislation.