G4S 2014 Full Year Results

G4S Chief Executive Officer Ashley Almanza said, “The group made good progress with its strategic plan, delivering commercial, operational and financial progress during 2014. This is reflected in a 7.9% increase in underlying PBITA and a 11.7% increase in underlying earnings and a 25% increase in cash flow from the group’s operating businesses. The group’s progress and prospects are reflected in the board’s recommendation to increase the final dividend by 5%. There remains much to be done to realise the full potential of our strategy and we expect to make further progress in 2015.”

Financial highlights on an underlying basis:

New contract sales achieved a total value of £2.1 billion (annual value £1.14 billion) and contract retention rates remained at approximately 90%. Sales pipeline replenished to stand at £5.5 billion annual contract value.

Revenue from continuing operations of £6,750 million up 3.9%
- Emerging markets revenues up 8.9% to £2,398 million
- North America up 6.9%; UK and Europe down 1%

PBITA increased by 7.9% to £424 million (2013: £393 million)
- Emerging markets up 10.3% to £192 million
- Developed markets up 12.3% to £292 million

Earnings of £210 million (2013: £188 million), up 11.7%

Cash from the group’s operating businesses was £526 million (2013: £420 million) up 25%. Total cash flow from continuing operations was £553 million (2013: £496 million)

Specific items include:
- £45 million increase in provisions for legacy UK Government contracts
- Restructuring charge of £29 million
- Profit on disposal from discontinued operations of £71 million