English version - Hexagon Composites ASA
English version - Hexagon Composites ASA
English version - Hexagon Composites ASA
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Prospectus<br />
COMROD<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
(a public limited liability company organized under the laws of Norway)<br />
Listing of the Company’s shares on the Oslo Stock Exchange<br />
This Prospectus does not constitute an offer to buy, subscribe or sell the<br />
securities described herein. This Prospectus serves as a listing prospectus as<br />
required by applicable laws and no securities are being offered or sold<br />
pursuant to this Prospectus.<br />
Manager:<br />
17 January 2007
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Important Information<br />
This Prospectus has been prepared in connection with the admission to trading on The Oslo Stock<br />
Exchange of New Shares in Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> (“Comrod” or the “Company”) issued by<br />
the consummation of the Demerger (as defined herein) and as further described herein. The Prospectus<br />
has been prepared to comply with the Norwegian Securities Trading Act (the “Securities Trading<br />
Act”). This Prospectus has been published in an <strong>English</strong> <strong>version</strong> only. The Prospectus has been<br />
reviewed and approved by The Oslo Stock Exchange pursuant to section 5-7 of the Securities Trading<br />
Act.<br />
The information contained herein is as of the date hereof and subject to change, completion or<br />
amendment without notice. There may have been changes in matters, which affect the Company<br />
subsequent to the date of this Prospectus. Any new significant factor, material mistake or inaccuracy<br />
relating to the information included in the Prospectus which is capable of affecting the assessment of<br />
the Shares and which arises or is noted between the publication of this Prospectus and the listing of the<br />
Shares at The Oslo Stock Exchange,, will be included in a supplement to this Prospectus in accordance<br />
with applicable regulations in Norway. The delivery of this Prospectus shall, under no circumstance,<br />
create any implication that the information contained herein is complete or correct as of any time<br />
subsequent to the date hereof or that the affairs of the Company have not since changed.<br />
The contents of this Prospectus are not to be construed as legal, business, financial or tax advice. Each<br />
prospective investor should consult their legal advisor, business advisor, financial advisor or tax<br />
advisor as to legal, business, financial and tax advice.<br />
The distribution of this Prospectus may in certain jurisdictions be restricted by law, and this<br />
Prospectus may not be distributed into or used for the purpose of, or in connection with, any offer or<br />
solicitation by anyone in any jurisdiction in which such offer or solicitation is not authorized or to any<br />
person to whom it is unlawful to make such offer or solicitation. No actions have been taken to<br />
register or qualify the Shares or otherwise to permit an offering of the Shares in any jurisdiction<br />
outside of Norway. Any person receiving this Prospectus is required by the Company and the<br />
Managers to inform themselves about and to observe such restrictions.<br />
All inquires relating to this Prospectus should be directed to the Manager. Only the Manager is entitled<br />
to provide information in respect of matters described in this Prospectus. Information that might be<br />
provided by any other persons is of no relevance to the contents of this Prospectus and should not be<br />
relied upon.<br />
Certain statements in section 2 “Risk Factors”, section 5 “Presentation of Comrod Communication<br />
<strong>ASA</strong>”, section 6 “Market Overview”, section 7 “Financial information”, and elsewhere in this<br />
Prospectus are forward-looking. These statements relate to the Company’s expectations, beliefs,<br />
intentions or strategies regarding the future. These statements may be identified by the use of words<br />
like “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “may”, “plan”, “project”, “will”, “should”,<br />
“seek”, and similar expressions. The forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current views<br />
and assumptions with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual and<br />
future results and trends could differ materially from those set forth in such statements. Many factors<br />
could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different<br />
from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such<br />
forward-looking statements. Some of these factors are discussed in more detail under section 2, “Risk<br />
Factors”. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update the forwardlooking<br />
statements included in this Prospectus as of any date subsequent to the date hereof.<br />
This Prospectus shall be governed by Norwegian law, and any disputes relating to this Prospectus or<br />
the Offering are subject to the sole jurisdiction of Norwegian courts, with Oslo District Court as legal<br />
venue.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Table of Contents<br />
1 SUMMARY .................................................................................................................... 5<br />
1.1 Presentation of Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong>.......................................................... 5<br />
1.2 Board of Directors, senior management and employees ........................................... 8<br />
1.3 Advisors and auditors ......................................................................................... 8<br />
1.4 Major shareholders and related party transactions .................................................. 9<br />
1.5 Financial information .......................................................................................... 9<br />
1.6 Trends.............................................................................................................11<br />
1.7 Share capital and shareholders matters................................................................12<br />
1.8 Purpose of the Demerger and the listing on the Oslo Stock Exchange .......................12<br />
1.9 The Demerger ..................................................................................................12<br />
1.10 VPS-registration and trading of the new Shares on The Oslo Stock Exchange .............13<br />
1.11 Expenses .........................................................................................................13<br />
1.12 Appendices and documents on display .................................................................13<br />
1.13 Summary of risk factors.....................................................................................13<br />
2 RISK FACTORS ........................................................................................................... 15<br />
2.1 Operational risks...............................................................................................15<br />
2.2 Financial risks...................................................................................................16<br />
2.3 Other risks.......................................................................................................17<br />
3 RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE PROSPECTUS ................................................................... 19<br />
3.1 Responsibility Statements ..................................................................................19<br />
3.2 Third party information ......................................................................................19<br />
4 THE DEMERGER AND LISTING ON OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE ....................................... 20<br />
4.1 Purpose of the Demerger and the listing on Oslo Stock Exchange.............................20<br />
4.2 The Demerger ..................................................................................................20<br />
4.3 VPS-registration and trading of the new Shares on The Oslo Stock Exchange .............24<br />
4.4 The Company's share capital following the Demerger and the Directed Issue .............24<br />
4.5 Rights conferred on the Shares ...........................................................................24<br />
4.6 Manager ..........................................................................................................24<br />
4.7 Legal counsel ...................................................................................................24<br />
4.8 Expenses .........................................................................................................24<br />
5 PRESENTATION OF COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> ................................................. 25<br />
5.1 Information about Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> ....................................................25<br />
5.2 Organisational structure.....................................................................................25<br />
5.3 Background and history .....................................................................................26<br />
5.4 Objective and strategy.......................................................................................28<br />
5.5 Business Overview ............................................................................................29<br />
5.6 Principal Markets...............................................................................................35<br />
5.7 Patents and licences ..........................................................................................42<br />
5.8 Research and Development ................................................................................42<br />
5.9 Property, plant and equipment............................................................................43<br />
5.10 The environment...............................................................................................44<br />
6 MARKET OVERVIEW ................................................................................................... 45<br />
6.1 Overview of the market .....................................................................................45<br />
6.2 Market shares and competition ...........................................................................50<br />
7 FINANCIAL INFORMATION ........................................................................................ 56<br />
7.1 Significant accounting policies.............................................................................56<br />
7.2 Transition from NGAAP to IFRS ...........................................................................65<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
7.3 Historical financial statements.............................................................................69<br />
7.4 Pro-forma financial information ...........................................................................74<br />
7.5 Annual report for Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong>......................................................80<br />
7.6 Capital resources ..............................................................................................80<br />
7.7 Discussion of financial condition and results of operations .......................................83<br />
7.8 Investments.....................................................................................................84<br />
7.9 Financial instruments.........................................................................................86<br />
7.10 Subsequent events............................................................................................86<br />
7.11 Changes in financial structure subsequent to Q3 2006 ............................................86<br />
7.12 Changes in the Company’s financial or trading position...........................................86<br />
7.13 Trend information .............................................................................................86<br />
7.14 Statutory Auditor ..............................................................................................87<br />
8 BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND MANAGEMENT................................................................ 88<br />
8.1 Board of Directors .............................................................................................88<br />
8.2 Management ....................................................................................................88<br />
8.3 Background of the Management and Board of Directors ..........................................88<br />
8.4 Conflicts of interest ...........................................................................................90<br />
8.5 The Board’s independence..................................................................................91<br />
8.6 Remuneration and benefits.................................................................................91<br />
8.7 Board practices.................................................................................................91<br />
8.8 Employees .......................................................................................................92<br />
8.9 Financial reporting and IR ..................................................................................92<br />
8.10 Related Party Transactions .................................................................................92<br />
9 SHARE CAPITAL AND SHAREHOLDER MATTERS ......................................................... 93<br />
9.1 Share capital - overview ....................................................................................93<br />
9.2 Share Registration and Listing ............................................................................93<br />
9.3 Share Option Plan .............................................................................................93<br />
9.4 Convertible loans, warrants etc. ..........................................................................93<br />
9.5 Authorizations ..................................................................................................94<br />
9.6 Shareholder structure........................................................................................94<br />
9.7 Articles of Association........................................................................................95<br />
9.8 Shareholder and dividend policy..........................................................................95<br />
9.9 Corporate governance .......................................................................................96<br />
9.10 Mandatory Bid Rules..........................................................................................96<br />
9.11 Compulsory Acquisition Rules .............................................................................96<br />
9.12 Disclosure of Acquisition and Disposals.................................................................97<br />
9.13 Public takeover bids past 12 months ....................................................................97<br />
10 TAXATION.................................................................................................................. 98<br />
10.1 Norwegian shareholders.....................................................................................98<br />
10.2 Non-resident shareholders..................................................................................99<br />
10.3 Transfer taxes etc. VAT.................................................................................... 100<br />
10.4 Inheritance tax ............................................................................................... 100<br />
11 LEGAL MATTERS....................................................................................................... 101<br />
11.1 Certain regulatory issues with respect to the United States ................................... 101<br />
11.2 Legal and arbitration proceedings ...................................................................... 101<br />
12 DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY ........................................................................................ 102<br />
13 DEFINITIONS........................................................................................................... 103<br />
APPENDIX 1: ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION ..................................................................... 105<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
APPENDIX 2: ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2005 FOR COMROD AS ........................................... 106<br />
APPENDIX 3: 3 RD QUARTER REPORT FOR 2006 FOR COMROD AS.................................... 114<br />
APPENDIX 4: AUDITOR STATEMENT REGARDING LIMITED REVIEW OF THE<br />
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE 3 RD QUARTER OF 2006....................................... 120<br />
APPENDIX 5: AUDITOR REPORT REGARDING THE PRO FORMA FINANCIAL<br />
INFORMATION ......................................................................................................... 121<br />
APPENDIX 6: ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2006 FOR COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong><br />
INCLUDING AUDITOR STATEMENT........................................................................... 122<br />
APPENDIX 7: ANNUAL REPORT FOR FIDULERC SA FOR 2005.......................................... 128<br />
APPENDIX 8: ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2005 FOR LERC SA ................................................. 135<br />
APPENDIX 9: FIDULERC SA. AND LERC SA. - TRANSITION FROM FGAAP TO IFRS IN<br />
THE INCOME STATEMENT......................................................................................... 152<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
1 SUMMARY<br />
This summary should be read as an introduction to the Prospectus and any decision to invest should<br />
be based on consideration of the Prospectus as a whole by the investor, including the documents<br />
incorporated by reference and the risks of investing in the Shares set out in chapter 2, “Risk Factors”.<br />
This summary is not complete and does not contain all the information that you should consider in<br />
connection with any decision relating to the Shares. Where a claim relating to the information<br />
contained in this Prospectus is brought before a court, the plaintiff might under the applicable<br />
legislation have to bear the costs of translating the Prospectus before the legal proceedings are<br />
initiated. No civil liability will attach to the Board of Directors of Comrod in respect of this summary,<br />
unless it is misleading, inaccurate or inconsistent when read together with the other parts of this<br />
Prospectus.<br />
1.1 Presentation of Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> (“Comrod”) is a Norwegian public limited company with headquarters<br />
in Tau in South-Western Norway and offices in Norway and France. The Company was incorporated<br />
19 September 2006 and was registered in the Norwegian Register of Business Enterprises 23<br />
September 2006 with the organisation number 900 295 697. The Company’s business address is<br />
Fiskåvegen, NO-4120 Tau, Norway.<br />
Comrod’s strategy is to strengthen the position as an internationally leading company within<br />
development, production and marketing of marine antennas and antenna systems, tactical defence<br />
antennas, masts, battery chargers, power supplies and insulating products. The Company will continue<br />
to develop its global position through existing and new products with the aim to increase its market<br />
share. It is the Company’s strategy to have a strong emphasis on research & development.<br />
1.1.1 Memorandum and articles of association<br />
Pursuant to the articles of association, the purpose of the Company is to operate business related to<br />
production and sales of communication products of fiberglass and other materials, including<br />
participation in companies engaged in similar business, and any other things related to this.<br />
The articles of association do not lay down more significant conditions necessary to change the rights<br />
of shareholders than required by the Norwegian Public Limited Companies Act.<br />
The Company’s articles of association are set out in Appendix 1 to this Prospectus.<br />
1.1.2 Organisation<br />
The legal structure of the Company after the Demerger 1 is shown in the figure below.<br />
1 The demerger of Comrod AS from <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>, after which Comrod AS and its subsidiaries will be part of Comrod<br />
Communication <strong>ASA</strong>. See section 1.9 and chapter 4 for more information about the Demerger.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
FIGURE:LEGAL STRUCTURE OF COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
(Norway)<br />
100%<br />
Comrod AS<br />
(Norway)<br />
100%<br />
Fidulerc S.A.<br />
(France)<br />
100%<br />
Laboratoire d’Etudes et de Recherches<br />
Chimiques (LERC) S.A.<br />
(France)<br />
The operational structure of the Company is shown in the figure below.<br />
FIGURE:COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> - ORGANISATION CHART<br />
Comrod Communication<br />
Ole Gunnar Fjelde<br />
Finance & IR<br />
Kari Duestad<br />
Lerc SA<br />
J. Mouray<br />
Comrod AS<br />
Ole Gunnar Fjelde<br />
Sales & marketing<br />
V. Lernoud/<br />
E.V.Renterghem<br />
Sales &<br />
marketing<br />
T.R Brekke<br />
R&D<br />
T. Demol<br />
R&D<br />
J. Eide<br />
Industry<br />
S. Proffit<br />
Operations<br />
O.G. Fjelde<br />
Production<br />
H. Dufresnoy/<br />
O. Lelong<br />
Power<br />
O.G. Fjelde<br />
1.1.3 History and development<br />
The Company’s activities dates back to 1948. A brief overview of the Company’s history is listed<br />
below:<br />
1948: Company established<br />
1950s: Introduced steel and fiber fishing rods<br />
1960s: Introduced marine antennas to the commercial market<br />
1970s: Transferring technology to defense antennas<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
1980s: First defence contract with Sweden<br />
1990s: Entered into its first major international defense contract with Switzerland<br />
1997: Sold from Christian Bjelland & Co to Norwegian Applied Technology <strong>ASA</strong> (NAT). Spilka<br />
Gruppen became the main owner of NAT during 1999 and 2000<br />
2002: Signed the Bowman contract for delivery of antennas to the British Military<br />
2003: Contract for VHF/UHF OMNI directional system for the Swedish Visby Stealth Corvettes<br />
2005: Entered into 3 year OEM agreement with US radio manufacturer Harris Corporation for the<br />
delivery of tactical communication antennas<br />
2006: Acquisition of Power operations from Eltek Energy in 1Q 2006 and acquisition of<br />
Fidulerc/Lerc SA in 3Q 2006<br />
See section 5.3 for more information about the Company’s history and development.<br />
1.1.4 Business overview<br />
The Company develops and manufactures tactical masts, antennas and antenna systems, power<br />
supplies, battery chargers and commercial products. The Company’s main focus is on the defence<br />
communication market. Customers within this market segment are highly demanding in terms of<br />
technical specifications, delivery precision and functional requirements. A typical project can last for<br />
several years, starting with an extensive development and/or a pre-qualification phase.<br />
The Company manufactures its products under two brand names, Lerc and Comrod. Both companies<br />
have strong international brand names, associated with high-quality and long-lasting products.<br />
The Norwegian subsidiary, Comrod AS, is a supplier of antennas, antenna systems and power<br />
supplies, mainly for the defence market, but also for other maritime and commercial applications.<br />
The Company’s subsidiary in France, Lerc SA, is a supplier of masts, antennas and industrial<br />
products. All products are sold both to the defence segment and to the commercial market.<br />
The Company’s main product groups are:<br />
1. Antennas and antenna systems<br />
2. Masts<br />
3. Industrial products<br />
4. Power supplies<br />
A more detailed overview of the Company’s products and operations can be found in section 5.5.<br />
1.1.5 Customer segments<br />
The Company’s customers can be split into the following main categories:<br />
- Radio manufacturers and system houses<br />
- Agents and distributors<br />
- Ships and dockyards<br />
- End-users Defence (governments, MODs, different military organisations)<br />
- Railways<br />
- Dedicated applications<br />
The defence market constitute the most important customer base for the Company, both in terms of the<br />
revenues and the resources spent on development, marketing and sales.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
1.1.6 R&D, patents and licences<br />
The Company has brought a number of products to the market by R&D projects driven by customer<br />
requirements. The Company’s R&D work is based on multi-discipline knowledge, organizational<br />
flexibility and a close relationship to end-user needs.<br />
The Company does not rely on any specific patents and licenses, and the Company has not patented its<br />
product technology in general. However, some special solutions are patented. The manufacturing<br />
processes apply well-known technologies combined in a number of ways to form the Company’s high<br />
quality products.<br />
1.2 Board of Directors, senior management and employees<br />
1.2.1 Board of Directors<br />
As of the date of this Prospectus, the following persons serve on the Board of Directors of Comrod:<br />
Name<br />
Board Current position & Business Address:<br />
Position<br />
Erik Espeset Chairman Group Managing Director of <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>, Korsegata 8,<br />
P.O. Box 836 Sentrum, 6001 Ålesund, Norway<br />
Randi Elin Hognestad Vice chairman Director of investor relations, HitecVision Private Equity AS,<br />
Klubbgata 1, P.O. Box 8120, 4068 Stavanger, Norway<br />
Niklas Hermansson Board member CEO of Technor <strong>ASA</strong> (from 1 February 2007)<br />
Merete Alnes Mostue Board member HR Manager Coop Møre BA, P.O. Box 10, 6025 Ålesund, Norway<br />
As of the date of this Prospectus, the Company’s senior management consists of the following<br />
individuals:<br />
Name Position Business Address:<br />
Ole Gunnar Fjelde Acting CEO from 1 January 2007 & Fiskåvegen 1, 4120 Tau<br />
Operations Manager<br />
Kari Duestad Finance Manager Fiskåvegen 1, 4120 Tau<br />
Jean Morrey General Manager, Lerc SA 600 chemin des Hamaïdes, BP<br />
10119, Saint Amand les Eaux Cedex,<br />
France<br />
Arne Risvik Syversen VP Sales & Marketing, Power division Leangbukta, 1392 Vettre<br />
1.2.2 Employees<br />
As of the date of the Prospectus the Company had approximately 166 employees, 81 of whom were<br />
employed at the Company’s headquarters in Norway and 85 were employed at the Company’s<br />
subsidiary in France.<br />
1.3 Advisors and auditors<br />
First Securities <strong>ASA</strong> has acted as Manager for the Demerger and the listing of Comrod at the Oslo<br />
Stock Exchange.<br />
Advokatfirmaet Schjødt AS is the Company’s legal advisor.<br />
Ernst & Young AS, Stavanger, is the statutory auditor of the Company.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
1.4 Major shareholders and related party transactions<br />
1.4.1 Major shareholders<br />
Based on the share register of <strong>Hexagon</strong> per 16 January, the number of registered shareholders of the<br />
Company will be about 1,444 as of the date of the Demerger, of which 96.8% are Norwegian and<br />
3.2% are non-Norwegian.<br />
Flakk Holding AS is the largest shareholder in Comrod with an ownership stake of 26.8% at the date<br />
of the Demerger. <strong>Hexagon</strong> 2 is the second largest shareholder with an ownership share of 25% whereas<br />
Bøckmann Eiendom AS has 6.8% and MP Pensjon with 5.9% of the shares.<br />
See section 9.6 for more information regarding the Company’s shareholder structure.<br />
1.4.2 Related party transactions<br />
The Company has entered into an agreement to purchase administrative services from <strong>Hexagon</strong>. These<br />
services will mainly be related to assistance with the financial reporting and IR. See section 8.9 and<br />
8.10 for more details regarding this administration agreement.<br />
1.5 Financial information<br />
Below is an extract of the financial statements of Comrod AS for the past three fiscal years as well as<br />
for the interim periods ending 30 September 2006 and 2005. A summary of the pro forma financial<br />
figures for 2005 and for the 3 rd quarter of 2006 are also included in this section. For more detailed<br />
financial information, please see chapter 7 as well as Appendix 2, 3, 7,8 and 9.<br />
2 <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>, the parent company of Comrod Communication and Comrod AS until the date of the Demerger described in<br />
this Prospectus.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
1.5.1 Income statement<br />
(in NOK 1000)<br />
2006 2005 2005 2004 2003<br />
01.01.-30.09 01.01.-30.09 01.01-31.12 01.01-31.12 01.01-31.12<br />
IFRS IFRS IFRS IFRS NGAAP<br />
Operating revenues 83 676 77 523 109 559 106 737 91 648<br />
Total operating expenses 75 212 60 345 85 217 80 027 79 855<br />
Operating profit/loss 8 464 17 178 24 342 26 710 11 793<br />
Net financial income/expenses -4 389 -1 210 1 372 -1 699 -1 907<br />
Profit before tax 4 075 15 968 25 714 25 011 9 886<br />
Taxes 1 349 4 491 7 296 6 956 2 814<br />
Profit for the year 2 726 11 476 18 418 18 055 7 072<br />
1.5.2 Balance sheet<br />
(in NOK 1000) 2006<br />
01.01-30.09<br />
2005<br />
01.01-30.09<br />
2005<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
2004<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
2003<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
IFRS IFRS IFRS IFRS NGAAP<br />
ASSETS<br />
Total non-current assets 122 137 19 496 20 881 19 296 17 412<br />
Total current assets 126 946 60 889 74 307 54 222 46 431<br />
Total assets 249 083 80 385 95 188 73 518 63 843<br />
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES<br />
Total equity 12 155 21 899 26 579 29 024 9 037<br />
Total non-current liabilities 167 210 12 240 11 756 18 274 9 753<br />
Total current liabilities 69 718 46 246 56 853 26 220 45 053<br />
Total liabilities 236 928 58 486 68 609 44 495 54 806<br />
Total equity and liabilities 249 083 80 385 95 188 73 518 63 843<br />
Comrod AS has experienced a significant growth in activity and revenues over the last years. The<br />
reason is several large, new contracts, in the defence market, in particular:<br />
- The Bowman contract signed in 2002 with start-up in 2003. Main contract period 2003 –<br />
2006.<br />
- Visby system deliveries in 2003<br />
- Switzerland contract with deliveries 2004 - 2005<br />
- Kuwait contract with deliveries in 2005<br />
- Harris OEM agreement 2005<br />
The expected turnover for 2006 will be in line with 2004 and 2005, but including the Power operations<br />
and Lerc. The drop in revenues for the mast and antenna operations in 2006, is mainly due to<br />
postponements in deliveries.<br />
The ongoing and future trends are not expected to cause any significant changes in the Company’s<br />
results. Despite the very positive net income for Comrod AS in the last years, the equity ratio has not<br />
increased. This is due to group contribution dispositions to <strong>Hexagon</strong>.<br />
1.5.3 Pro forma financial information<br />
In September 2006 the Company acquired the French company Fidulerc SA and its subsidiary Lerc<br />
SA. Pro forma financial information have been made for the financial year ended 31 December 2005<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
and for the nine months ended 30 September 2006. The pro forma figures have been prepared for<br />
illustrative purposes only and does not represent the Company’s actual financial position or results.<br />
Pro forma income information<br />
Below is the pro forma income information for the fiscal year 2005 and for the period ended 30<br />
September 2006.<br />
(in NOK 1000)<br />
2006 2005<br />
01.01.-30.09. 01.01.-31.12<br />
IFRS<br />
Proforma<br />
IFRS<br />
Proforma<br />
Operating revenues 137 812 211 239<br />
Total operating expenses 128 933 179 160<br />
Operating profit/loss 8 878 32 079<br />
Net financial income/expenses -8 946 -5 316<br />
Profit before tax -68 26 763<br />
Taxes 491 8 983<br />
Profit for the year -558 17 780<br />
Pro forma balance sheet<br />
Below is the pro forma balance sheet for the period ended 30 September 2006.<br />
(in NOK 1000)<br />
2006<br />
30.sep<br />
IFRS<br />
Proforma<br />
ASSETS<br />
Total non-current assets 122 137<br />
Total current assets 116 413<br />
Total assets 238 550<br />
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES<br />
Total equity 81 659<br />
Total non-current liabilities 112 537<br />
Total current liabilities 44 354<br />
Total liabilities 156 891<br />
Total equity and liabilities 238 550<br />
1.5.4 Capital resources<br />
From the date of the Demerger the Company will have access to long term financing of up to NOK 90<br />
mill. from DnB NOR in addition to a current debt facility of NOK 10 mill. Combined with the cash<br />
flow from operations this gives the Company a very healthy, long term financing.<br />
Detailed information about the Company’s capital resources is presented in section 7.6, “Capital<br />
resources”.<br />
1.6 Trends<br />
The Company has not experienced any changes or trends outside the ordinary course of business that<br />
are significant to the Company after 30 September 2006 and to the date of this Prospectus, other than<br />
those described in this Prospectus.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Besides the Demerger and the new bank loan described in section 7.6.3, no major changes in the<br />
financial structure of the Company has taken place since the end of the 3 rd quarter of 2006.<br />
There have been no significant changes in the Company’s financial or trading position subsequent to<br />
Q3 2006.<br />
1.7 Share capital and shareholders matters<br />
The Company’s share capital as following the Demerger and the directed issue is NOK 16,938,649<br />
divided into 16,938,649 shares, each with a par value of NOK 1.00.<br />
1.8 Purpose of the Demerger and the listing on the Oslo Stock Exchange<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> is a wholly owned subsidiary of <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong><br />
(“<strong>Hexagon</strong>”). <strong>Hexagon</strong> and its subsidiaries are currently involved in four different business areas, one<br />
of which is the manufacturing and sale of antennas and masts made by composite materials, which is<br />
operated through Comrod AS and its subsidiary Lerc SA (together “the Communication Business”).<br />
The board of <strong>Hexagon</strong> regards the synergies between the Communication Business and <strong>Hexagon</strong>’s<br />
other operations to be limited, and has therefore resolved to move the antenna and mast operations to a<br />
separate company, Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong>, to be listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange. Comrod<br />
Communication <strong>ASA</strong> was incorporated in September 2006 following a resolution by the board of<br />
directors of <strong>Hexagon</strong>.<br />
A listing on the Oslo Stock Exchange will give the Company access to the capital market and<br />
necessary funding as well as an instrument to secure a stable liquidity in the Company’s Shares. Such<br />
access to funding, will help the Company secure and strengthen its market position. Major defence<br />
projects may create the need for additional and available liquidity. As a listed company, Comrod will<br />
have an instrument to help securing the Company’s future business development.<br />
1.9 The Demerger<br />
Under the Demerger, a company group from <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> will be established under<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> to continue the Communication Business, and the assets, rights and<br />
liabilities primarily related to the Communication Business will be transferred from <strong>Hexagon</strong><br />
<strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> to Comrod by means of a demerger transaction effected in accordance with<br />
Norwegian law.<br />
29 September 2006 the respective Board of Directors of each of <strong>Hexagon</strong> and Comrod<br />
Communication <strong>ASA</strong> entered into the Demerger Plan. <strong>Hexagon</strong>’s shareholders approved the<br />
Demerger Plan at an extraordinary general meeting on 6 November 2006. Upon the consummation of<br />
the Demerger, the Communication Business will be transferred to Comrod. Until the Demerger is<br />
consummated, Comrod will remain a wholly-owned subsidiary of <strong>Hexagon</strong> with no subsidiaries or<br />
operational activity.<br />
In connection with the Demerger Comrod’s share capital will be increased by NOK 12,703,987.00<br />
from NOK 1,000,000.00 to NOK 13,703,987.00 through the issue of 12,703,987 new Shares each with<br />
a par value of NOK 1.00 in the ratio of one Share per 10 <strong>Hexagon</strong> shares. The Share Premium Fund is<br />
increased from NOK 0.00 to NOK 27,804,542.28.<br />
Upon consummation of the Demerger, shareholders in <strong>Hexagon</strong> will receive one Share with a par<br />
value of NOK 1.00 for every 10 shares in <strong>Hexagon</strong> they hold on the last day of trading before the<br />
consummation of the Demerger (expected to be 19 January 2007).<br />
Prior to the Completion of the Demerger, 17 January 2007 there was an extraordinary general meeting<br />
in Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> that adopted a directed issue of new Shares at market value towards<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong>, to be paid and registered immediately following the Completion of the Demerger 19 January<br />
2007, designed to give <strong>Hexagon</strong> a 25.00 % ownership interest in Comrod following the Demerger. In<br />
this transaction, 3,234,662 Shares will be issued, by con<strong>version</strong> of debt of NOK 55,667,097, which<br />
equals a subscription price of NOK 17.21 per Share. The debt which will be used for the con<strong>version</strong> is<br />
currently from Comrod AS to <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>, but will be transferred to Comrod<br />
Communication <strong>ASA</strong> immediately following the consummation of the Demerger. The transaction<br />
does not invoke any further costs for the Company.<br />
Consummation of the Demerger is expected to occur on or about 19 January 2007 (after the closing of<br />
trading at the Oslo Stock Exchange). As soon as practicable thereafter Comrod will cause the new<br />
Shares to register in the name of the registered holders of <strong>Hexagon</strong> shares with the VPS, which is also<br />
expected to occur on or about 19 January 2007.<br />
1.10 VPS-registration and trading of the new Shares on The Oslo Stock Exchange<br />
The Company was registered with the Norwegian Register of Business Enterprises on 23 September<br />
2006. The Company is registered in the VPS with the ISIN no. 001 0338445.<br />
The Company’s Shares will be admitted to listing on the Oslo Stock Exchange following the<br />
publication of this Prospectus. This is expected to take place on or about 22 January 2007. The<br />
Company’s ticker code will be COMROD.<br />
1.11 Expenses<br />
The costs related to the Demerger and the listing of the Company at the Oslo Stock Exchange will be<br />
paid by <strong>Hexagon</strong>. Comrod will have no expenses related to the Demerger. No expenses or taxes will<br />
be charged to <strong>Hexagon</strong>’s or Comrod’s shareholders in connection with the Demerger and the listing of<br />
the Shares at the Oslo Stock Exchange.<br />
1.12 Appendices and documents on display<br />
The Company’s financial statements for 2006, Comrod AS’ annual report for 2005 and Comrod AS’<br />
interim report for the 3 rd quarter of 2006 and the Company’s articles of association are included as<br />
appendices to this Prospectus.<br />
For the life of the Prospectus the documents referred to (or copies thereof), where applicable, may be<br />
inspected at the offices of the Company at Fiskåvegen 1, N-4120 Tau, Norway. Tel.: +47 51 74 05<br />
00/Fax: +47 51 74 05 01.<br />
1.13 Summary of risk factors<br />
A number of risk factors may adversely affect the Company. Below is a summary of some of the most<br />
important risk factors. The risk factors presented in this Prospectus are not exhaustive, and other risks<br />
not discussed herein may also adversely affect the Company.<br />
Both operational risks, financial risks and other risk factors may have a negative impact on the<br />
Company’s results.<br />
Risks related to the commercialization of new technology, risks related to technological competence<br />
and key personnel and risks related to competition and strategic choices are considered the main<br />
operational risk factors. Other operational risk factors may include the dependence on few customers,<br />
risks related to cost and organisational control, management execution and to some extent risks related<br />
to timely delivery and quality of products that are outsourced.<br />
The financial risks may include currency risk, liquidity risk, interest and customer credit risk.<br />
Currency risk is the most significant financial risk factors to which the Company is exposed as a<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
stronger Norwegian currency may decrease profitability. Export and sales abroad are settled in foreign<br />
currencies, mainly EUR, USD, GBP and CHF. This comprised about 57% of the Company’s total<br />
turnover in 2005. The currency risk is reduced by purchasing products in foreign currency, taking out<br />
foreign currency loans and using derivatives for sales contracts and some of the net sales expected in<br />
foreign currency. Net cash flow is used to gauge currency risk. The currency risk may not be<br />
eliminated in total in future business, but will be a part of the commercial risk characteristic of<br />
international operations.<br />
Other risk factors may include risks related to the payment of dividends and fluctuations in the share<br />
price. The risk factors are described in more details in Chapter 2.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
2 RISK FACTORS<br />
A number of risk factors may adversely affect the Company. These risk factors include financial risks,<br />
technical risks, risks related to the business operations of the Company, environmental and regulatory<br />
risks. If any of these risks or uncertainties actually occurs, the business, operating results and<br />
financial condition of the Company could be materially and adversely affected. The risks presented in<br />
this Prospectus are not exhaustive, and other risks not discussed herein may also adversely affect the<br />
Company. Prospective investors should consider carefully the information contained in this<br />
Prospectus and make an independent evaluation before making an investment decision.<br />
Included in this Prospectus are various “forward-looking statements”, including statements regarding<br />
the intent, opinion, belief or current expectations of the Company or its management with respect to,<br />
among other things, (i) the Company's target market, (ii) evaluation of the Company's markets,<br />
competition and competitive position, (iii) trends which may be expressed or implied by financial or<br />
other information or statements contained herein. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees<br />
of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may<br />
cause the actual results, performance and outcomes to be materially different from any future results,<br />
performance or outcomes expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors<br />
include, but are not limited to, the risk factors described below and elsewhere in this Prospectus.<br />
2.1 Operational risks<br />
Operational risk can be defined as the risk of loss resulting from failed or inappropriate processes or<br />
procedures. The Company acknowledges the importance of limiting its dependence on individual<br />
customers or suppliers. In Comrod, operational risk management is delegated to each division, based<br />
on the main guidelines in the Company’s control and management system.<br />
2.1.1 The level of activity within the defence industry<br />
Almost all countries reduced their overall defence budgets after the end of the Cold War. After the<br />
terrorist attacks on 11 September 2001, however, military spending has increased substantially.<br />
Defence organizations have changed their priorities to spend more money on sophisticated equipment<br />
and less on large numbered armies. Military equipment is rapidly becoming sophisticated and more<br />
expensive. This is both good and bad news for the defence industry. It is good because of the fact that<br />
demand for advanced weapons, aircrafts, naval ships and information systems is increasing in relative<br />
terms, but bad because the competition is becoming much more fierce as a result of the net volume<br />
reduction. In addition the defence procurement agencies are getting more concerned with the need to<br />
“procure smart”. Thus there is less money available for up font product development, as the military<br />
wants to buy more “off the shelf” products. One consequence of this is that the concentration will<br />
continue in the industry, as the large defence groups need more economies of scale to support large<br />
and costly development programs, like new aircrafts and ships. However, this will give interesting<br />
opportunities for small companies like Comrod operating in market niches that will not get attention<br />
from the large groups.<br />
2.1.2 Dependence on few customers<br />
To some extent the Company’s different product groups have an overlapping customer base. However,<br />
the dependence on a few customer segments has been reduced through the acquisition of Lerc in<br />
September 2006. Accordingly, the Company’s overall risk of lost sales is considerably lower than the<br />
risk for one individual product group. This has encouraged favourable financing of the Company,<br />
increasing its capacity for long-term technological development.<br />
2.1.3 Commercialisation of new technology<br />
There is always risks related to development of new products and services regarding how fast and to<br />
what extent existing and potential customers will accept and buy the new products and services. Most<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
of the product development is performed in close contact with the customers limiting the Company’s<br />
risk related to product development.<br />
2.1.4 Technological competence and key personnel<br />
To be able to meet future plans for development and growth the Company has to maintain a high level<br />
of competence. The Company is dependent on recruitment of personnel with a high level of<br />
competence and that key personnel do not leave the Company or can not easily be replaced.<br />
The Company offers competitive terms of employment and possibilities of development to attract the<br />
best qualified personnel and keep the turnover of key personnel as low as possible.<br />
2.1.5 Competition and strategic choices<br />
The Company’s competitors will always be a possible threat to the Company’s performance. The<br />
Company is experiencing that the competitive arenas for the different product and services have<br />
different characteristics. The competition is in general fragmented and the risk for pressure on prices<br />
and loss of contracts is lower than for example for unilateral strong competition between a limited<br />
number of big international players.<br />
The competitive situation means that high requirements are set with respect to the Company’s Board<br />
and Management and the long-term strategic choices made. The Board and Management’s<br />
competence and ability to make the correct strategic choices can have a significant effect on the<br />
Company’s future financial performance and position.<br />
The products the Company offers consist of increasingly more sophisticated technology, and<br />
development of new technology can make the Company’s products less competitive. It may be<br />
necessary to make considerable additional investments in new technology in order to remain<br />
competitive. As a consequence of this, the Company could lose customers, fail to attract new<br />
customers or incur considerable costs related to maintaining the customer base.<br />
2.1.6 Cost and organisational control<br />
Cost and organisational control are key issues in a period of strong growth. Growth increases the risk<br />
of a higher cost increase than assumed as well as organisational disruption. Growth also requires<br />
development of administrative systems and routines.<br />
2.1.7 Management execution<br />
The planned growth in revenues and profits is partly dependent on management execution of the<br />
Company’s strategy and plans. There is a risk that the management may not succeed in implementing<br />
the Company’s strategy and plans, and consequently may not deliver the expected revenues and<br />
profits.<br />
2.1.8 Delivery<br />
For the Company’s Power operations, manufacturing has been outsourced. There is some risk related<br />
to the timely delivery and the quality of the products that are outsourced.<br />
2.2 Financial risks<br />
The Company has an overall financial strategy which covers management of important financial risk<br />
factors, namely currency, liquidity, interest and credit risk.<br />
The Company does not have any holdings of shares or other financial securities of which the purpose<br />
is to make profit from resale.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
2.2.1 Currency risk<br />
Currency risk is the most significant financial risk factor to which the Company is exposed, as a<br />
stronger Norwegian currency decreases its profitability. The consolidated accounts are settled in NOK.<br />
Export and sales abroad are settled in foreign currencies, mainly in EUR, USD, GBP and CHF, and<br />
this comprised 57% of the Company’s turnover in 2005. The currency risk is reduced by purchasing<br />
products in foreign currency, taking out foreign currency loans and using derivatives for sales<br />
contracts and some of the net sales expected in foreign currency. Net cash flow is used to gauge<br />
currency risk. The currency risk may not be eliminated in total in future business, but will be a part of<br />
the commercial risk characteristic of international operations. With the Lerc acquisition Comrod will<br />
reduce its dependency of the Norwegian krone, since a substantial part of the cost base will be<br />
denominated in Euros.<br />
2.2.2 Liquidity risk<br />
Comrod may be exposed to delays in payments in connection with closure of major projects. This risk<br />
may stem from official approval of final payment or delayed progress at partners. The capitalisation of<br />
the Company is set up in order to meet this risk. With increasing company size and a more diversified<br />
product and customer portfolio, the relative importance of separate projects/customers is decreasing.<br />
2.2.3 Interest rate risk<br />
The Company’s long-term interest-bearing debt has floating interest. A higher interest level will thus<br />
have a negative effect on performance through higher net interest costs. To minimise interest risk,<br />
limits have been defined for hedging instruments and fixed-interest terms ranging from 0.5 to 4 years.<br />
Liquidity risk is managed by setting a minimum level of available liquidity in the group, which is<br />
based on the estimated annual turnover.<br />
2.2.4 Customer credit risk<br />
Customer credit risk is low for Comrod, since the major customer base comprise large defence<br />
organisations and radio manufacturers Over the past five years losses on accounts payable have been<br />
very low. For new customers with limited credit information available, trade finance instruments, such<br />
as letters of credit or bank guarantees, are utilised. Requirements have been drawn up for all financial<br />
institutions which are to be transaction counterparties.<br />
2.2.5 IFRS<br />
With effect from the first quarter of 2006 Comrod have prepared its consolidated financial statements<br />
in accordance with the new reporting standard, IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards,<br />
formerly IAS).<br />
The annual report for 2006 will adhere to these standards. The historical comparative figures for 2005<br />
have been restated in line with IFRS. The effect of the transition from NGAAP (Norwegian generally<br />
accepted accounting principles) to IFRS on the balance sheet and final results for the financial year<br />
2005 and 2006 is further described in chapter 7, “Financial information” of this Prospectus.<br />
2.3 Other risks<br />
2.3.1 Dividends<br />
Dividends will have to be assessed in relation to earnings over time. Future dividends will depend on<br />
the Company’s earnings and financial position.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
2.3.2 Capital market development<br />
As listed company, the pricing of the Comrod shares will be affected by fluctuations in the stock<br />
market. Consequently, the share price could fall, even if the Company shows a positive underlying<br />
development.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
3 RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE PROSPECTUS<br />
3.1 Responsibility Statements<br />
3.1.1 The Board of Directors<br />
The Board of Directors of Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> is responsible for the information given in<br />
this Prospectus.<br />
We confirm that to the best of our knowledge, having taken all reasonable care to ensure that such is<br />
the case, the information contained in the Prospectus is in accordance with the facts and contains no<br />
omissions likely to affect its import.<br />
Ålesund, 17 January 2007<br />
The Board of Directors of Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Erik Espeset<br />
Chairman<br />
Niklas Hermansson<br />
Randi E. Hognestad<br />
Merete Alnes Mostue<br />
3.2 Third party information<br />
The information in this Prospectus that has been sourced from third parties has been accurately<br />
reproduced and, as far as the Company is aware and able to ascertain from information published by<br />
that third party, no facts have been omitted which would render the reproduced information inaccurate<br />
or misleading.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
4 THE DEMERGER AND LISTING ON OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
4.1 Purpose of the Demerger and the listing on Oslo Stock Exchange<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> is a wholly owned subsidiary of <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong><br />
(“<strong>Hexagon</strong>”). <strong>Hexagon</strong> and its subsidiaries are currently involved in four different business areas, one<br />
of which is the manufacturing and sale of antennas and masts made by composite materials. These<br />
activities are mainly carried out through <strong>Hexagon</strong>’s subsidiary Comrod AS and Comrod’s subsidiary<br />
Lerc SA. The board of <strong>Hexagon</strong> has concluded that the synergies between Comrod’s activities and the<br />
rest of the <strong>Hexagon</strong> group’s activities are limited. As a result, the board of <strong>Hexagon</strong> has resolved to<br />
move the antenna and mast operations to a separate company to be listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange.<br />
In connection with the demerger of <strong>Hexagon</strong>, Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> has been established as a<br />
separate company. Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> will be the parent company for Comrod AS, its<br />
subsidiary Fidulerc SA with its subsidiary Lerc SA.<br />
The shareholders of <strong>Hexagon</strong> will receive shares in Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> in accordance with<br />
their ownership stake in <strong>Hexagon</strong>. See section 4.2 for more information.<br />
A listing on the Oslo Stock Exchange will give the Company access to the capital market and<br />
necessary funding as well as an instrument to secure a stable liquidity in the Company’s shares. Such<br />
access to necessary funding, will help the Company secure and strengthen its market position. Major<br />
defence projects may create the need for additional and available liquidity. As a listed company,<br />
Comrod will have an instrument to help securing the Company’s future business development.<br />
4.2 The Demerger<br />
Under the Demerger, an independent group will be established under Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> to<br />
continue the Communication Business, and the assets, rights and liabilities primarily related to the<br />
Communication Business will be transferred from <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> to Comrod by means of<br />
a demerger transaction effected in accordance with Norwegian law. Under Norwegian law, a demerger<br />
is the transfer of part of the assets rights and liabilities of a company (the transferor company) to one<br />
newly formed or pre-existing company (the transferee company) in exchange of shares of the<br />
transferee company. Provided that the relevant tax, accounting, and corporate law provisions are met,<br />
a demerger may, under Norwegian law, be carried out tax-free for the Norwegian demerging company<br />
and its Norwegian shareholders.<br />
29 September 2006 the respective Board of Directors of each of <strong>Hexagon</strong> and Comrod entered into the<br />
Demerger Plan. <strong>Hexagon</strong>’s shareholders approved the Demerger Plan at an extraordinary general<br />
meeting on 6 November 2006. Upon the consummation of the Demerger, the Communication<br />
Business will be transferred to Comrod. Until the Demerger is consummated, Comrod will remain a<br />
wholly-owned subsidiary of <strong>Hexagon</strong> with no subsidiaries or operational activity.<br />
The remaining assets, rights and liabilities presently held by <strong>Hexagon</strong> and not transferred to Comrod<br />
will after completion of the Demerger remain with <strong>Hexagon</strong>, which will continue to operate the<br />
Composite Business.<br />
4.2.1 Comrod Prior to the Demerger<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> was incorporated as a wholly owned subsidiary of <strong>Hexagon</strong> on 19<br />
September 2006 for the purpose of acting as the transferee company in the Demerger, and at the date<br />
of this Prospectus have a paid in capital of NOK 1,000,000, allocated to a share capital of<br />
NOK 1,000,000 divided into 1,000,000 shares, each with a par value of NOK 1.00. Comrod<br />
Communication <strong>ASA</strong> has not had, and will not have, any operational activity prior to the Completion<br />
Date.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
4.2.2 Allocation of Assets, Rights and Liabilities pursuant to the Demerger Plan<br />
Upon consummation of the Demerger, the assets, rights and liabilities relating to the Communication<br />
Business shall be transferred to Comrod. The transferred assets consist primarily of the shares in<br />
Comrod AS (and indirectly of shares in its subsidiaries). All assets, rights and liabilities presently<br />
owned by <strong>Hexagon</strong> and not transferred as part of the Demerger, shall remain with <strong>Hexagon</strong>.<br />
For purposes of the Demerger, Comrod will as of the Completion Date be deemed to have received a<br />
loan from <strong>Hexagon</strong> of MNOK 12.8 which shall be settled in cash on the Completion Date, unless<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> has given its consent to the extension of the loan, whether in part or in whole, beyond the<br />
Completion Date, on terms to be agreed between the parties.<br />
If either Comrod or <strong>Hexagon</strong> after consummation of the Demerger identifies that any of the assets and<br />
rights of <strong>Hexagon</strong> and its subsidiaries primarily relates to and are required for the operation of the<br />
Comrod Business, <strong>Hexagon</strong> shall procure, to the extent possible, that such assets and rights (and the<br />
liabilities related thereto) shall be assigned to Comrod free of any additional consideration. This<br />
principle shall apply in the same manner if <strong>Hexagon</strong> or Comrod identifies that any of the assets and<br />
rights of the Comrod Companies primarily relate to and are required for the operation of the<br />
Composite Business.<br />
4.2.3 Share Split Ratio; Issuance of new shares<br />
The split ratio for the Demerger is derived from estimates of the fair value of the Communication<br />
Business relative to the estimates of the fair value of <strong>Hexagon</strong>. The Board of Directors of <strong>Hexagon</strong><br />
and Comrod have determined that the Demerger entails an allocation of the fair values in the ratio of<br />
74,51 % to <strong>Hexagon</strong> and 25,49 % to Comrod. The share capital and share premium fund of <strong>Hexagon</strong><br />
is consequently allocated in the same ratio of 74,51 % to <strong>Hexagon</strong> and 25,49 % to Comrod. Comrod’s<br />
Board of Directors and <strong>Hexagon</strong>’s Board of Directors are of the opinion that the legal requirements for<br />
Norwegian tax-free treatment of the Demerger are met by the above allocation.<br />
The reduction of share capital in <strong>Hexagon</strong> will be effected by way of a reduction in the par value of<br />
each share. The capital increase in Comrod will be accomplished by issuance of 1 new Comrod Share<br />
for each 10 <strong>Hexagon</strong>-shares. Consistent with the ratio described above, the par value of each <strong>Hexagon</strong><br />
share will be reduced from NOK 0,125 to NOK 0.093. The par value will then be increased to NOK<br />
0.10 through a capital increase by transfer from the <strong>Hexagon</strong>’s premium fund, which was adopted by<br />
the extraordinary general meeting 6 November 2006. The par value of each Comrod Share will<br />
continue to be NOK 1.00. This will be accomplished in the following manner:<br />
The share capital of <strong>Hexagon</strong> will be reduced by NOK 4,047,283.72 from NOK 15,879,983.50 to<br />
NOK 11,832,699,78 through reduction of the par value for each share from NOK 0.125 to NOK 0.093.<br />
The share premium fund will be reduced from NOK 143,059,893.29 to NOK 106,598,647.74.<br />
Comrod’s share capital will be increased by NOK 12,703,987.00 from NOK 1,000,000.00 to NOK<br />
13,703,987.00 through the issue of 12,703,987 new shares each with a par value of NOK 1.00 in the<br />
ratio of one Share per 10 <strong>Hexagon</strong> shares. The Share Premium Fund is increased from NOK 0.00 to<br />
NOK 27,804,542.28.<br />
Comrod was incorporated with 1.000.000 shares owned by <strong>Hexagon</strong>. Prior to the Completion of the<br />
Demerger, 17 January 2007, there was an extraordinary general meeting in Comrod Communication<br />
<strong>ASA</strong> which adopted a directed issue of new Shares at market value towards <strong>Hexagon</strong>, to be paid and<br />
registered immediately following the Completion of the Demerger 19 January 2007, designed to give<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> a 25.00 % ownership interest in Comrod following the Demerger. In this transaction,<br />
3,234,662 Shares will be issued, by con<strong>version</strong> of debt of NOK 55,667,097, which equals a<br />
subscription price of NOK 17.21 per Share. The debt which will be used for the con<strong>version</strong> is<br />
currently from Comrod AS to <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>, but will be transferred to Comrod<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Communication <strong>ASA</strong> immediately following the consummation of the Demerger. The transaction<br />
does not invoke any further costs for the Company.<br />
4.2.4 Distribution of Shares in the Demerger<br />
Upon consummation of the Demerger, shareholders in <strong>Hexagon</strong> will receive one Share with a par<br />
value of NOK 1.00 for every 10 shares in <strong>Hexagon</strong> they held on the last day of trading before the<br />
consummation of the Demerger (expected to be 19 January 2007).<br />
The existing Shares and the shares issued in the directed issue, all of which are held by <strong>Hexagon</strong>, will<br />
immediately after consummation of the Demerger represent 25.00 % of the total number of Shares.<br />
The Shares to be issued to the holders of <strong>Hexagon</strong> shares upon consummation of the Demerger will<br />
constitute the remaining 75.00 % of the Shares.<br />
4.2.5 Conditions of the Consummation of the Demerger<br />
Consummation of the Demerger is subject to the following conditions:<br />
All consents, both contractual and governmental, required for the consummation of the Demerger shall<br />
have been obtained or waived.<br />
Oslo Stock Exchange shall have consented to Comrod being listed immediately after registration of<br />
the new Shares issued in connection with the Demerger with the VPS.<br />
Satisfactory long-term financing and insurance for both both Comrod and <strong>Hexagon</strong> shall have been<br />
established.<br />
There shall be no outstanding indebtness between any of the subsidiaries under Comrod and the<br />
subsidiaries of <strong>Hexagon</strong>, other than the debts described in the Demerger Plan.<br />
The deadline for objections from the creditors pursuant to section 14-7 cf. section 13-15 of the Public<br />
Limited Companies Act shall have expired for both Comrod and <strong>Hexagon</strong>, and the position regarding<br />
any creditors who have raised objections has been settled or <strong>Hexagon</strong> shall have obtained a final ruling<br />
from Norwegian courts regarding any such objections concluding that the Demerger may nevertheless<br />
be consummated and registered with the Register.<br />
No circumstance having a material adverse effect on the business, property, result of operation or<br />
financial condition of the <strong>Hexagon</strong> Companies or the Comrod Companies shall have occurred, unless<br />
the Board of Directors of <strong>Hexagon</strong> is of the opinion that it will be in the interest of the shareholders of<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> to nevertheless consummate the Demerger.<br />
There shall be no decision by a subsequent extraordinary general meeting of <strong>Hexagon</strong>, pursuant to a<br />
calling notice from the <strong>Hexagon</strong> Board of Directors or otherwise to cancel the Demerger.<br />
4.2.6 Consummation of the Demerger<br />
If the conditions of the consummation of the Demerger are satisfied, or where applicable waived, the<br />
respective Boards of Directors of <strong>Hexagon</strong> and Comrod will approve the consummation of the<br />
Demerger, after which notice of consummation of the Demerger will be filed with the Norwegian<br />
Register of Business Enterprises.<br />
Consummation of the Demerger is expected to occur on or about 19 January 2007 (after the closing of<br />
trading at the Oslo Stock Exchange). As soon as practicable thereafter Comrod will cause the new<br />
Shares to register in the name of the registered holders of <strong>Hexagon</strong> shares with the VPS, which is<br />
expected to occur on or about 24 January 2006.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
4.2.7 Relationship with Creditors<br />
The Demerger resolution was reported to the Norwegian Register of Business Enterprises and a public<br />
notice was issued on 8 November 2006. The creditors of <strong>Hexagon</strong> and Comrod will have the right to<br />
object to the consummation of the Demerger until 8 January 2007. By 8 January 2007 there have been<br />
no objections to the Demerger.<br />
If a creditor with an undisputed and due claim raises an objection, the Demerger cannot be<br />
consummated before the claim has been settled. If a creditor with a disputed claim or a claim which is<br />
not yet due raises any objection, the Demerger cannot be consummated unless the claim has been<br />
settled, adequate security has been placed to the benefit of the creditor, or <strong>Hexagon</strong> has obtained a<br />
final ruling from a Norwegian court decision that the Demerger may nevertheless be consummated<br />
and registered with the Register.<br />
Under the Norwegian Public Limited Companies Act, Comrod will be secondarily liable following<br />
consummation of the Demerger for the obligations of <strong>Hexagon</strong> upon the Completion Date.<br />
Conversely, <strong>Hexagon</strong> will be secondarily liable for the obligations of Comrod upon the Completion<br />
Date.<br />
To minimize cross liabilities following completion of the Demerger, <strong>Hexagon</strong> and Comrod have used,<br />
and will continue to use until and after the Completion Date, their best efforts to obtain waivers<br />
releasing <strong>Hexagon</strong> from secondary liability in respect of the Communication Business, and waivers<br />
releasing Comrod from secondary liability relating to the <strong>Composites</strong> Business. However, no<br />
assurance can be given that such replacements and waivers will be obtained for all the current<br />
obligations of <strong>Hexagon</strong> and Comrod, respectively.<br />
To the extent that <strong>Hexagon</strong> or the other <strong>Hexagon</strong> Companies after the Completion Date continue to be<br />
directly liable (as distinguished from the secondary joint and several liability under section 14-11 of<br />
the Public Limited Companies Act) for contingent or actual liabilities owned by the Comrod<br />
Companies to third parties, Comrod will pay to <strong>Hexagon</strong> a guarantee fee calculated on the basis of the<br />
guaranteed sum at a rate equal to the average margin paid by Comrod on its interest-bearing debt for<br />
the continuation of such guarantees.<br />
4.2.8 Tax Matters<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> believes that the Demerger complies with the requirements for a tax-free transaction in<br />
Norway. Accordingly, it is expected that the Demerger should not give rise to any Norwegian taxes for<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong>. Comrod will take over <strong>Hexagon</strong>’s tax position with respect to the assets and liabilities<br />
transferred to Comrod in the Demerger.<br />
The Demerger will for Norwegian tax purposes take effect as of the Effective Date, which means that<br />
items of income and expenses generated by <strong>Hexagon</strong> from such date will, to the extent related to the<br />
operations transferred to Comrod in the Demerger, be attributed to Comrod for tax purposes.<br />
4.2.9 Employees and Pension Rights and Liabilities<br />
The Demerger will have no direct effect on the employment relationship for the employees under the<br />
Communication Business. The employees of the various subsidiaries of <strong>Hexagon</strong> will not be directly<br />
affected by the Demerger. Comrod has separate pension funds.<br />
The Demerger will not involve redundancies and it is not expected that the Demerger will have other<br />
significant consequences for the employees.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
4.2.10 Demerger-Related Agreements between <strong>Hexagon</strong> and Comrod<br />
In connection with the Demerger, the <strong>Hexagon</strong> Companies and the Comrod Companies have entered<br />
into, or will enter into, certain agreements that will regulate the continuation of a transitional period<br />
for established commercial connections between the Communication Business and the <strong>Composites</strong><br />
Business, including a framework and service agreement giving Comrod the necessary support for<br />
financial reporting and Investor Relations following consummation of the Demerger.<br />
The terms and conditions of the agreements between <strong>Hexagon</strong> and Comrod are, or will be, in general<br />
based on arm’s length principles. The agreements will be terminated as soon as practically possible.<br />
4.3 VPS-registration and trading of the new Shares on The Oslo Stock Exchange<br />
The Company was registered with the Register of Business Enterprises on 23 September 2006.<br />
The Company’s Shares will be expected to be listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange, SMB list, following<br />
the publication of this Prospectus. This is expected to take place on or about 22 January 2007. The<br />
Company’s ticker code will be COMROD and one round lot is expected to be 500 Shares.<br />
The Company is registered in the VPS with the ISIN no. 001 0338445.<br />
4.4 The Company's share capital following the Demerger and the Directed Issue<br />
Following the Demerger, the Company’s share capital will be NOK 16,938,649 divided into<br />
16,938,649 Shares each with par value NOK 1.00.<br />
4.5 Rights conferred on the Shares<br />
The Shares carry full shareholders’ rights in the Company from the time of registration of the share<br />
capital increase with the Norwegian Register of Business Enterprises (Foretaksregisteret), see section<br />
4.3. The Shares carry right to dividends, if any, from and including the financial year 2006 for any<br />
dividends which are resolved distributed after the share capital increase is registered in the Norwegian<br />
Register of Business Enterprises. For a description of rights attaching to Shares in the Company, see<br />
chapter 9, “Share Capital and Shareholder Matters” of this Prospectus.<br />
4.6 Manager<br />
First Securities <strong>ASA</strong> is Manager of the Demerger and the listing of the Company’s shares at the Oslo<br />
Stock Exchange. The Manager’s address is:<br />
First Securities <strong>ASA</strong>, Fjordalléen 16, P.O. Box 1441 Vika, 0115 Oslo, Norway.<br />
4.7 Legal counsel<br />
The Company’s Norwegian legal counsel is Advokatfirmaet Schjødt AS, Dronning Maudsgt. 11, P.O.<br />
Box 2444 Solli, 0201 Oslo, Norway.<br />
4.8 Expenses<br />
The costs related to the Demerger and the listing of the Company at the Oslo Stock Exchange will be<br />
paid by <strong>Hexagon</strong>. Comrod will have no expenses related to the Demerger.<br />
No expenses or taxes will be charged to <strong>Hexagon</strong>’s or Comrod’s shareholders in connection with the<br />
Demerger and the listing of the Shares at the Oslo Stock Exchange.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
5 PRESENTATION OF COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong><br />
5.1 Information about Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Comrad Communication <strong>ASA</strong> is a Norwegian public limited liability company with headquarters in<br />
Tau in South-Western Norway and offices in Norway and France.<br />
The Company’s activities dates back to 1948. Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> was incorporated on 19<br />
September 2006 and was registered in the Norwegian Register of Business Enterprises 23 September<br />
2006 with the organisation number 900 295 697. The Company’s legal name is Comrod<br />
Communication <strong>ASA</strong>, and the Company’s business address is Fiskåvegen 1, NO-4120 Tau, Norway,<br />
tel. +47 51 74 05 00.<br />
The Company’s shares are registered in the VPS (the Norwegian electronic share registry) with the<br />
ISIN no. 001 0338445. The Company is subject to Norwegian company legislation.<br />
5.2 Organisational structure<br />
The legal structure of the Company after the Demerger is shown in the figure below.<br />
FIGURE:LEGAL STRUCTURE OF COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
(Norway)<br />
100%<br />
Comrod AS<br />
(Norway)<br />
100%<br />
Fidulerc S.A.<br />
(France)<br />
100%<br />
Laboratoire d’Etudes et de Recherches<br />
Chimiques (LERC) S.A.<br />
(France)<br />
The operational structure of the Company is shown in the figure below.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
FIGURE:COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> - ORGANISATION CHART<br />
Comrod Communication<br />
Ole Gunnar Fjelde<br />
Finance & IR<br />
Kari Duestad<br />
Lerc SA<br />
J. Mouray<br />
Comrod AS<br />
Ole Gunnar Fjelde<br />
Sales & marketing<br />
V. Lernoud/<br />
E.V.Renterghem<br />
Sales &<br />
marketing<br />
T.R Brekke<br />
R&D<br />
T. Demol<br />
R&D<br />
J. Eide<br />
Industry<br />
S. Proffit<br />
Operations<br />
O.G. Fjelde<br />
Production<br />
H. Dufresnoy/<br />
O. Lelong<br />
Power<br />
O.G. Fjelde<br />
The Company’s business is operated through its wholly owned subsidiaries, Comrod AS in Norway<br />
and Lerc SA in France. As per 30 September 2006 the Company had 166 employees, 85 of whom<br />
were employed at Lerc S.A. and 81 of whom worked at Comrod AS.<br />
The number of employees at Comrod AS for the past three accounting years and per 30 September<br />
2006, are divided as follows:<br />
by function: per 30 Sept. 2006 per 31 Dec. 2005 per 31 Dec. 2004 per 31 Dec. 2003<br />
Administration 11 11 9 9<br />
Sales & Marketing 3 3 3 3<br />
R&D 7 6 4 4<br />
Operations 55 55 58 57<br />
Division Power 5 0 0 0<br />
Total 81 75 74 73<br />
The total number of employees in Lerc S.A. for 2005 and at the end of the 3 rd quarter of 2006 were<br />
divided as follows:<br />
by function: per 30 Sept. 2006 per 31 Dec. 2005<br />
Administration 6 6<br />
Sales & Marketing 5 4<br />
R&D 7 7<br />
Operations 67 64<br />
Total 85 81<br />
5.3 Background and history<br />
The Company’s origins dates back to 1948 when the company Brødrene Tjøstheim was incorporated<br />
in Tau outside of Stavanger in Western Norway. Comrod AS has developed from a manufacturer of<br />
fishing rods to today’s advanced communication antennas, antenna systems and lightweight mast<br />
solutions.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Based on its knowledge of fibre composites, the company began to develop antennas designed for<br />
extreme weather conditions. In 1960, Comrod AS started production of whip antennas for the fishing<br />
vessels based on technology from the manufacturing of fishing rods. Since the early 1970s the<br />
company has focused on the development and manufacturing of sophisticated antennas for the<br />
defence, commercial and maritime market.<br />
A brief overview of the main products that Comrod AS has produced over the years is listed below:<br />
- 1949 Steel fishing rods<br />
- 1953 Fiber glass fishing rods<br />
- 1960 Marine antennas<br />
- 1969 Military antennas<br />
- 1970 Ski-poles<br />
- 1982 Broadband antennas<br />
- 1986 Composite insulators<br />
- 1990 Pipe production (continued in the company Compipe AS, acquired by NAT in 1995)<br />
- 1997 Combined active GPS / VHF antennas<br />
- 2001 INTAS system for vehicles<br />
- 2002 AIS combined antennas<br />
- 2002 MAS 1 antenna system for pleasure yachts<br />
- 2003 VHF / UHF OMNI directional system for Visby Stealth Corvettes<br />
- 2004 Development of L1/L2 active GPS antennas<br />
- 2006 Power supply, battery chargers, masts and insulation products<br />
In the following is an overview of the most important events related to Comrod AS’ development over<br />
the past years.<br />
In 1988 the company signed its first major defence contract in Sweden.<br />
In 1994 Comrod AS became one of the leading suppliers of GMDSS upgrades to merchant vessels.<br />
In 1997 Comrod AS entered into its first major international defence contract with Switzerland.<br />
In 1997 Comrod AS was sold from Chr. Bjelland & Co Inc. to Norwegian Applied Technology <strong>ASA</strong><br />
(NAT). In the summer of 1999, Spilka Gruppen became the main owner of Norwegian Applied<br />
Technology <strong>ASA</strong>, and during 1999 and 2000 some of NAT’s operations were liquidated. A new board<br />
was elected, and the company headquarters was moved from Stavanger to Ålesund in Norway. At the<br />
same time NAT was renamed <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>. In June 2000, <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong><br />
merged with Devold AMT, a company formerly privately held by Spilka Gruppen and others, with<br />
Spilka Gruppen as the main shareholder. Comrod AS continued as a subsidiary of <strong>Hexagon</strong><br />
<strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>, and maintained its location in Tau.<br />
In 1998 Comrod AS started deliveries for the new MRR radios for the Norwegian Armed Forces.<br />
In 2002 Comrod AS signed a contract for the prestigious BOWMAN project involving the delivery of<br />
antennas to portable radios, various vehicles and base stations for the British military. In the same year<br />
the Company entered into an agreement for the delivery of antennas and an antenna control system to<br />
the Swedish navy’s new corvettes (the Visby project).<br />
In 2003 the company entered into a 15 year OEM agreement with German radio manufacturer Rohde<br />
& Schwarz.<br />
In 2004 Comrod AS signed a new defence contract for the delivery of tactical antennas to Switzerland.<br />
In addition, the company for the first time secured a defence contract in China.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
In September 2005 Comrod AS entered into a three-year OEM agreement with US radio<br />
manufacturer, Harris Corporaton, RF Communication Division. This agreement includes deliveries of<br />
tactical communication antennas for use both in the international market as well as the US domestic<br />
market. This contract represented a breakthrough for Comrod AS in the US market.<br />
In February 2006 the company signed an agreement with Eltek Energy AS to purchase its power<br />
supply unit for the defence market.<br />
In the beginning of 2006 the company entered into a new business area by winning the contract for<br />
delivery of antenna switches to Swedish submarines.<br />
In September 2006 Comrod AS acquired Lerc S.A., a world leading French manufacturer of integrated<br />
mast and antenna solutions for the defence market, from the Canadian company ECI <strong>Composites</strong>.<br />
On 6 November 2006 an extraordinary general meeting of <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> passed a<br />
resolution to spin off Comrod AS and its subsidiaries and to seek listing for the new parent company,<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong>, at the Oslo Stock Exchange. The Demerger is expected to become<br />
effective on or about 19 January 2007.<br />
Following the Demerger, the Company was reorganized into a holding structure, with Comrod<br />
Communication <strong>ASA</strong> as the parent company, and Comrod AS, Fidulerc S.A. and Lerc S.A. as the<br />
Company’s wholly owned subsidiaries.<br />
For more information about the Company’s current operations, see the following sections.<br />
5.4 Objective and strategy<br />
5.4.1 Objective<br />
Comrod’s goal is to strengthen its position as an internationally leading company within development,<br />
production and marketing of antennas and antenna systems, masts and mast systems, power supply,<br />
battery chargers and insulating products. It is the Company’s overall objective to be a global leader in<br />
supplying antennas, antenna systems, power supply, battery chargers and masts to the defence<br />
communication market. In addition the Company is in the process of developing from a supplier of<br />
standard antennas and masts, to also become a supplier of more advanced and related support systems<br />
for tactical communication solutions. The Company also supplies antennas and antenna systems for<br />
commercial use as well as industrial composite products for the offshore industry and railroad<br />
systems.<br />
5.4.2 Strategy<br />
The Company will continue to develop its global market position for masts and marine antennas<br />
through existing and new products with the aim to increase its sale of tactical defence antennas, masts,<br />
antenna systems, power supplies and battery chargers. Active product development through close<br />
cooperation with its customers, is an important part of the Company’s strategy. The Company has a<br />
fully integrated production process, which means that the Company controls all the important<br />
processes in the development, marketing and sales, as well as the actual production. With the recent<br />
acquisitions of Lerc S.A. and the Power operations, the Company is better positioned to increase its<br />
share of the global market for communications systems.<br />
For the period 2007 to 2009, the Company has the following targets:<br />
- to increase the sales volume in the US market (all areas)<br />
- to complete at least one acquisition of a competing or related company<br />
- become a global supplier for power supplies and battery chargers<br />
- increase activities and obtain a new customer base for systems applications<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
- introduce the Flat Pack technology for defence power supplies<br />
- maximize the synergies between the different divisions<br />
- maintain the superior quality and flexibility of products and deliveries<br />
5.5 Business Overview<br />
5.5.1 Principal activities<br />
The Company develops and manufactures tactical masts, antennas and antenna systems, power<br />
supplies, battery chargers and commercial products. The Company’s main focus is on the defence<br />
communication market. Customers within this market segment are highly demanding in terms of<br />
technical specifications, delivery precision and functional requirements. A typical project can last for<br />
several years, starting with an extensive development and/or a pre-qualification phase.<br />
The Company manufactures its products under two brand names, Lerc and Comrod. Both companies<br />
have strong international brand names, associated with high-quality and long-lasting products.<br />
Operations in Norway (Comrod AS)<br />
The Norwegian subsidiary, Comrod AS, is a supplier of antennas, antenna systems and power<br />
supplies, mainly for the defence market, but also for other maritime and commercial applications.<br />
Operations in France (Lerc SA)<br />
The Company’s subsidiary in France, Lerc SA, is a supplier of masts, antennas and industrial<br />
products. All products are sold both to the defence segment and to the commercial market.<br />
5.5.2 Product groups<br />
The Company’s main product groups are:<br />
1. Antennas and antenna systems<br />
2. Masts<br />
3. Industrial products<br />
4. Power supplies<br />
The following sections describe each product group in more detail.<br />
1. Antennas and antenna systems<br />
Comrod manufactures antennas for the defence market and for civilian/commercial use. For the<br />
defence market, Comrod also supplies sophisticated antenna systems. The manufacturing of antennas<br />
and antenna systems takes place in Norway and France.<br />
The Company provides advanced technology solutions to meet defence requirements and supplies a<br />
comprehensive range of tactical mobile antennas suitable for man-pack, vehicles and transportable<br />
remote applications. The product line of antennas for the defence segment includes combined antennas<br />
for VHF/GPS, VHF/DECT, VHF/WLAN, UHF/GPS, UHF/DECT and UHF/WLAN.<br />
For commercial use the Company supplies marine antennas for a number of different vessels, from<br />
deep-sea fishing boats, workboats to cruise and pleasure boats.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
The table below lists the various antenna products manufactured by the Company.<br />
Product description antennas: Applications: Comments:<br />
HF: 1.5 to 30MHz - Man-pack<br />
- Development of new generation<br />
- Vehicle<br />
wire antennas<br />
- Stationary<br />
- Traditional<br />
- Wire or whip<br />
- Commercial shipping<br />
VHF: 30 – 88 or 108 MHz - Vehicle<br />
- Handheld<br />
- Manpack<br />
- Stationary<br />
- Commercial shipping and light<br />
marine<br />
UHF: 225 – 512 MHz - Handheld<br />
- Vehicle<br />
- Station<br />
- Commercial shipping and light<br />
marine<br />
Dual Band and Multi-Band:<br />
Center-Fed VHF + GPS<br />
End-Fed VHF + GPS<br />
30 – 88 Center-Fed + 2.4GHz<br />
30 – 88 + UHF 225 – 512 MHz<br />
30 – 512 MHz<br />
Radio Link antennas<br />
- Center-fed<br />
- End-fed<br />
- Mostly vehicle antennas<br />
- Emerging market<br />
- Development of new generation<br />
whip antennas<br />
- Market moving towards Multi-<br />
Band<br />
- High volume – high pricing<br />
- More technology – patents<br />
- Higher margins<br />
Spare parts - Stable business<br />
Radio Beacon - Offshore and commercial shipping - Used for aircraft guidance<br />
Civil antennas - Airports - ILS monitoring<br />
AIS receiver antenna - Automatic identification system - Monitoring of ships<br />
The VHF segment is the main product constituting an estimated 60% of the turnover within the<br />
antenna segment. The HF products make up approximately 30% and the UHF products approximately<br />
10% of the turnover within this segment. The defence segment comprise approximately 80% of the<br />
Company’s turnover from antennas.<br />
The clients include OEMs, defence organisations and commercial vessels. The main customers within<br />
the antenna segment are ITT, Harris, Thales and Rhode & Schwarz.<br />
FIGURE: ANTENNAS -MANPACK, HANDHELD AND VEHICLE<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Communication antenna control system<br />
The Company sees an emerging market for communication antenna control systems for the defence<br />
segment. The demand is shifting towards more sophisticated systems, comprising alternative forms of<br />
communication (HF, VHF, UHF, etc.) using different broadband applications. This combined with<br />
higher demands/more needs for installations onto the platform, has led to an increasing demand for<br />
such systems worldwide.<br />
A typical systems application is as follows; The antenna system is an active antenna combiner and an<br />
antenna selector switch. It is primary designed to reduce the number of antennas in an installation and<br />
allows the simultaneous use of several radios to one transmit antenna or to individual directional<br />
antennas. A receive distribution amplifier is included to allow multiple receivers at the same time.<br />
2. Masts<br />
Tactical masts for military use are one of the main product categories for the Company’s French<br />
subsidiary, Lerc SA, constituting approximately 17% of the Company’s turnover.<br />
All masts are manufactured at the Company’s production facility in France. The Company supplies<br />
telescopic, sleeve, manpack, manual and motorized masts. The Company is also able to provide a<br />
complete antenna and mast system for rapid deployment. Key features of the mast products include<br />
easy maintenance, standard as well as tailor-made <strong>version</strong>s and advanced control systems for<br />
unmanned use of the masts.<br />
The table below gives an overview of the products that the Company produces within the segment for<br />
tactical masts.<br />
Product: Applications: Comments:<br />
Manpack masts - HF or VHF radio stations (C4), 4 - 5% of mast turnover<br />
to 12m ground installation - Next generation wire antennas<br />
need ultra-light manpack masts<br />
Sleeve masts (tripods/shelters) - Line of sight (“LOS”)<br />
- Cellphone<br />
- Emergency<br />
- 6 to 40m, on tripod, vehicle or<br />
shelter<br />
Telescopic - Electronic Warfare (“EW”)<br />
- LOS<br />
- Ground surveillance<br />
- Energy<br />
- (Live line maintenance)<br />
- 2.5 to 30m<br />
- On vehicle, shelter or trailer<br />
(good prospects)<br />
- 67% of mast turnover<br />
- New generation of Line of Sight<br />
need more accurate masts with<br />
heavier toploads<br />
- Belt driven and motorized:<br />
- 15% of mast turnover<br />
- New generation Electronic<br />
Warefare systems need<br />
automated masts<br />
- Good outlook for US & Europe<br />
- Manual:<br />
- 8% of mast turnover<br />
- Stable market<br />
Spare parts - Stable business<br />
Services:<br />
manuals<br />
training<br />
maintenance<br />
engineering (integration on vehicle or<br />
shelter)<br />
- Added value for the customer<br />
Sleeve masts constitute the main product category within the mast segment. These masts constitute<br />
67% of the mast turnover. Lerc has superior competence and a well-proven track record for<br />
calculating, designing and manufacturing masts, especially for large sized and heavy top-load<br />
applications.<br />
In the following is an illustration of some of the masts that the Company offers.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
FIGURE:MASTS FOR ADVANCED CONTROL AND UNMANNED USE (FROM LEFT)<br />
3. Industrial products<br />
The Company’s industrial products comprise insulating products and structural composites. Some<br />
90% of the sales within this segment is related to the energy and utility industry, and the defence<br />
industry makes up approximately 10% of the sales.<br />
All manufacturing of the Company’s industrial products take place at the Company’s manufacturing<br />
plant in France. The Company’s industrial products are targeted towards niche markets.<br />
Key clients include Siemens, Schlumberger, SNECMA, French Railways, Belgium Railways, and<br />
EDF.<br />
Insulating products<br />
Lerc produces two main insulating products; synthetic insulators and insulating poles. The two product<br />
categories are described in the table below:<br />
Product description: Applications: Comments:<br />
Synthetic insulators, 750V to 25kV - Railways<br />
- Only 2 competitors in Europe<br />
- Urban transport<br />
- New competition from Asia and<br />
Insulating poles - Live maintenance on high tension<br />
lines<br />
Eastern Europe<br />
- End of market life cycle within 3<br />
to 5 years (will be replaced by<br />
automated tools)<br />
Synthetic insulators make up approximately 70% of the division’s turnover from insulating products.<br />
Below is an illustration of insulating products.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
FIGURE:SYNTHETIC INSULATOR FOR RAILROAD APPLICATION AND EXAMPLE OF INSULATOR<br />
Structural composites<br />
These are custom-designed products for commercial and military applications. The structural<br />
composites can be divided in the following product categories:<br />
Product description: Applications: Comments:<br />
Custom designed products for<br />
- Oil & gas exploration tools - Co-design and strategic subcontracting<br />
with commercial applications<br />
- Electrical equipment<br />
customers<br />
Custom designed products for military<br />
applications<br />
- Aeronautic components<br />
- Pressure tubes for missile and<br />
rocket launchers<br />
- Missile propulsion components<br />
- Co-design and strategic subcontracting<br />
with customers<br />
The custom designed products for commercial applications constitute an estimated 70% of the<br />
Company’s turnover within structural composites.<br />
4. Power supplies<br />
The Company acquired the Power operations from Eltek Energy AS in the first quarter of 2006. The<br />
power operations deliver a full service range of power supplies for large industrial and military<br />
projects. The technology rights for battery systems was acquired from Eltek Energy AS with exclusive<br />
rights in the defence market.<br />
The table below gives an overview of the various product groups within power supplies manufactured<br />
by the Company.<br />
Product description: Applications: Comments:<br />
BC1500RM series - Vehicles, shelters and navy vessels - Combined power supply and battery<br />
charger, 28V 50A, for mounting in<br />
19” racks<br />
BC1500BM series - Vehicles, shelters - Combined power supply and battery<br />
charger, 28V 50A<br />
Battery chargers and power supplies for - Vehicles and stationary, used for - Both vehicle and man held <strong>version</strong>s.<br />
handheld radios<br />
various types of batteries<br />
Battery chargers and power supplies for - Vehicles and stationary, used for - Both vehicles and shelters<br />
man-pack radios<br />
various types of batteries<br />
Ultra Compact – high efficiency - Next generation power supplies<br />
- Goal - ½ size double effect<br />
The Company delivers power supplies and battery chargers to original equipment manufacturers<br />
(OEMs), and has experience from more than 130 OEM projects worldwide. The power supply<br />
products are developed in close cooperation with the Company’s customers and are constructed to<br />
withstand rough environments. The Company offers engineering and manufacturing of both Ni Cad<br />
and Li-Ion batteries with advanced applications and tailor-make solutions to fit with the customers’<br />
needs.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Manufacturing is outsourced and takes place at the following locations:<br />
- VTech in Dongguan, China<br />
- Fideltronic in Krakow, Poland<br />
- Åstvedt in Bergen, Norway<br />
Below is an illustration of a battery charger.<br />
ILLUSTRATION: EXAMPLES OF POWER SUPPLY PRODUCTS, FROM LEFT: DOUBLE MAN-PACK<br />
CHARGER, COMBINED CHARGER AND POWER SUPPLY AND STANDARD POWER SUPPLY<br />
5.5.3 New products<br />
The Company is currently in an R&D phase for several new products and product groups. These new<br />
product ranges are expected to be released during the period 2007 - 2010.<br />
The products that the Company expects to release over the next few years are as follows:<br />
- Communication antenna control system<br />
- Next generation power supplies - expected to be introduced to the market within the end of<br />
2007<br />
- Smart system for vehicle applications – more radios onto one single antenna, expected to be<br />
introduced Q3 2007<br />
- Wideband HF antenna for Navy vessels, under current study. First delivery Q4 2006<br />
- SATCOM antennas, expected to start up Q2 2007 finalized Q1 2008<br />
- Various wideband antennas<br />
- The development of a new range of Railways insulators<br />
- The development of a new high margin product for the oil industry<br />
5.5.4 Main products by revenue<br />
Below is an overview of the revenues for the main product categories sold by the Company for the<br />
past three accounting years.<br />
Based on pro forma figures for 2005, antennas comprised 69% of the Company’s turnover, whereas<br />
masts made up 17% and industrial products 14% of the turnover. At the end of the 3 rd quarter of 2006,<br />
the revenue from the different product groups can be split as follows: 64% from antennas, 9% from<br />
masts, 21% from industrial products and 6% from power supplies. The changes in revenues from<br />
masts are due to postponements within some defence supply orders. For industrial products the growth<br />
in 2006 is related to increased sales within dedicated applications.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
TABLE:COMROD’S TURNOVER BY PRODUCT CATEGORY 2003 – 2006<br />
(in NOK mill.) per 3Q 2006<br />
IFRS<br />
2005<br />
IFRS<br />
2004<br />
IFRS<br />
2003<br />
NGAAP<br />
Masts 12.2 35.4 N/A N/A<br />
Antennas 88.3 146.2 105 90<br />
Industrial products 28.5 29.6 1.8 1.7<br />
Power supplies 8.8 N/A N/A N/A<br />
Sum revenues 137.8 211.2 106.8 91.7<br />
Note: Figures for 2003 and 2004 only include financials for Comrod AS. Figures for 2005 and 2006 are based on proforma<br />
financials for Comrod AS and Lerc SA. Power supplies included from March 2006.<br />
The above table shows Comrod’s historic turnover for the past three accounting years. Lerc is included<br />
from 2005.<br />
Factors that have affected the Company’s principal activities and turnover<br />
Over the period shown in the above table, these factors have all influenced the Company’s principal<br />
activities and turnover:<br />
- Securing the BOWMAN contract in 2002 with deliveries until bulk 2006. This also included a 10<br />
year spare parts contract.<br />
- Winning Visby Stealth systems to Sweden in 2003, next generation products.<br />
- Greece antenna contract (MNOK 14), ongoing deliveries<br />
- Switzerland spare parts contract delivered in 2004 (MNOK 12)<br />
- Kuwait MOD contract delivered in 2005 (MNOK 16.5)<br />
- Croatia LOS mast contract in 2005, ongoing deliveres<br />
- Signing an OEM contract with Harris RF Communication Division USA in 2005<br />
- Continuous production up-grades to achieve an optimal and effective production. This was<br />
accelerated after securing the BOWMAN contract.<br />
- The development of a new range of Railways insulators<br />
- The development of a new high margin product for oil industry (related to the Industrial Products<br />
segment)<br />
5.6 Principal Markets<br />
In the following is a description of the Company’s principal markets, including an overview of the<br />
Company’s marketing and distribution as well as main customer segments.<br />
5.6.1 Customer segments<br />
The Company’s customers can be split into the following main categories:<br />
1. Radio manufacturers and system houses<br />
Typical customers are:<br />
- ITT Industries, USA<br />
- Harris, USA<br />
- Kongsberg Group, Norway<br />
- General Dynamics, USA<br />
- Furuno, Japan<br />
- Radio Holland, Holland<br />
- Thales Group, France<br />
2. Agents and distributors<br />
- See marketing and distribution section<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
3. Ships and dockyards<br />
Typical customers include:<br />
- Kockums<br />
- HDW<br />
- Ulstein Group, Norway<br />
4. End-users Defence (governments, MODs, different military organisations)<br />
Typical customers include:<br />
- FMV, Sweden<br />
- Kuwait MOD<br />
- GRD, Switzerland<br />
- TamsCo, USA<br />
- US Army<br />
5. Railways<br />
- Railway companies in Europe<br />
- OEM building railways tracks<br />
6. Dedicated applications<br />
- Oil companies (linked to non disclosure agreements)<br />
- Missile manufacturers (linked to non disclosure agreements)<br />
See more information about the Company’s customers in section 5.6.3.<br />
The defence market constitute the most important customer base for the Company, both in terms of the<br />
revenues and the resources spent on development, marketing and sales.<br />
5.6.2 Marketing and distribution<br />
Sales and marketing is an integrated part of the Company’s production plans. The main part of the<br />
products manufactured are a result of direct orders. Direct orders constitute some 80% of the<br />
Company’s revenues. Customer requirements and the subsequent research and development efforts are<br />
at the core of the Company’s production and distribution.<br />
There is a close correlation between R&D, production, engineering, sales and marketing. The key<br />
factor is multi-discipline knowledge, flexibility and a close relationship to the end-users.<br />
Approximately 10 people work with sales and marketing of the Company’s products. In addition the<br />
Company has a number of agents and distributors worldwide who market the Company’s products.<br />
Technical and production personnel from the different subsidiaries support all sales activities. This<br />
also includes demos and field tests where the customer require participation. This is to ensure that the<br />
products are installed and equipped correctly.<br />
The Company mainly delivers products to the defence market, but commercial applications also<br />
constitute an important market segment. The marketing approach and the time to market differs<br />
significantly between the customers within the different areas. Consequently, the description of the<br />
Company’s marketing and distribution efforts are divided into two categories; 1) Defence products<br />
and 2) Commercial products. See also the description of the market in chapter 6.<br />
Defence products<br />
The Defence sector is mainly project driven, and the Company has extensive know-how in terms of<br />
what major projects are being planned in various countries.<br />
The time to market in the defence sector typically takes longer than for commercial products. It may<br />
take six to eight years to secure a contract, and throughout that process the Company often has to go<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
through a pre-qualification phase, extensive testing and development before the actual delivery starts.<br />
Once, started however, a defence contract often lasts for several years, including a long period of spare<br />
parts delivery after the main delivery has been completed.<br />
FIGURE:TYPICAL TIMELINE FOR A DEFENCE PROJECT<br />
Year 0 Year 6-8<br />
Start Demo Development Qualification Deliveries Spare parts<br />
In general, as is also the case for the commercial products, original components are sold to OEMs and<br />
integrators, who include the Company’s products in their deliveries to the end-users. It is the end-user,<br />
who decides on the specifications for the various orders. The end-user normally purchases the spare<br />
parts directly from the Company.<br />
Customers<br />
Within the defence sector the Company works closely with the customers on product development.<br />
The Company’s customers within the defence sector can be divided in the following categories:<br />
- Integrators/Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), which again sell to armies<br />
- Armies/End-users<br />
Integrators/OEMs may choose to use the Company’s products because it has been specified by the<br />
end-user. Within this segment, there are few competitors for key applications. The typical order to this<br />
customer group is customized. Typical for this market segment is the importance of personal contacts<br />
in order to secure a contract.<br />
The armies/end-users decide on the program and system specifications and thereby the specific<br />
technical specifications for masts and antennas to be included in the program. This customer group<br />
also purchases the spare parts directly from the suppliers. As is the case for integrators/OEMs,<br />
relationships are important to secure contracts. Lobbying also plays a role in order to secure funding<br />
for R&D and innovation programs.<br />
Power supply<br />
For the distribution of the power units the Company plans to use the same market approach as for<br />
antennas, masts and systems. Within the power supply segment, the Company can target the same<br />
customer base that the Company has developed for antennas/masts/systems over the years, i.e. mainly<br />
the defence segment. At this stage the Company’s Power operations is at a premature stage, which can<br />
be compared to where Comrod’s defence operations was 10 years ago. Following the growth of<br />
Comrod in the last few years, this implies that the power division has a substantial potential for rapid<br />
growth internationally.<br />
Commercial products<br />
The Company has more than 30 commercial distributors globally in the following main countries;<br />
- USA<br />
- Canada<br />
- Singapore<br />
- Hong Kong<br />
- Taiwan<br />
- Korea<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
- Japan<br />
- Australia<br />
- Most European countries<br />
In Norway there are no distributors. Here the customers mainly include the large shipyards, and<br />
marketing and distribution are targeted directly at the customer. Most of the distributors have been<br />
working with the Company for at least 10 years.<br />
The Company’s commercial products are often sold from warehouse inventory rather than customer<br />
based production orders, but for the products with more of an R&D focus, personal relationships still<br />
play an important role.<br />
Customers<br />
The main customer segments within the commercial product segment are:<br />
Marine antennas:<br />
- Shipyards<br />
- Distributors<br />
Structural <strong>Composites</strong>:<br />
- Oil & gas exploration companies<br />
- Defence manufacturing<br />
Insulating Products:<br />
- Railroad companies<br />
- Industrial groups<br />
- Offshore customers<br />
Marine antennas are mainly sold to shipyards or to agents/distributors as this is more of an off-the<br />
shelf product than the more technologically advanced defence antennas.<br />
The Company delivers drilling tubes to oil and gas exploration companies and rocket and missiles<br />
launch tubes for the defence-manufacturing segment. The structural composites market is highly<br />
profitable and characterised by highly confidential and long-term contracts. There is a strong R&D<br />
focus in this segment, which again is a driver for innovation and consequently higher margins. The<br />
structural composites and insulation products are distributed to a few, but very strong, OEM customers<br />
such as the French railroad system SNCF. Therefore the Company has a strong Key Account focus for<br />
these product groups. The deliveries of insulating products are dependent on European railways<br />
investments.<br />
5.6.3 Key customers<br />
The Company has a number of large customers. Given the wide range of products and the Company’s<br />
customer base, the Company does not rely on any key customer(s).<br />
Below is an overview of some of the Company’s key customers within the various product groups.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Antennas<br />
Customer/country:<br />
Order:<br />
ITT Industries, USA - Comrod is the main supplier for antennas to the international programs<br />
Harris RF Communications, USA - Comrod now has a 3 year OEM agreement for HF and VHF antennas<br />
and lightweight masts<br />
UK MOD BOWMAN - Contract has since awarded been substantial for the Company. The<br />
program has included all HF, VHF and UHF vehicle antennas together<br />
with lightweight masts. At the peak in 2004 this contract amounted to<br />
more than 25% of the year’s turnover.<br />
Racal Antennas, England - A strategic partner that Comrod has had numerous programs with<br />
during the last 10 – 15 years, including BOWMAN<br />
FMV, Sweden (Swedish MOD) - Has been an active customer for Comrod since the late 1980s<br />
Kongsberg Group, Norway - An important customer for both antennas and power supplies/battery<br />
chargers to the Norwegian MRR and LFR program<br />
Thales Group, France - Very important customer for Lerc, Lerc being the main antenna<br />
manufacturer for Thales France and most of its subsidiaries overseas.<br />
Lerc has indirectly sold antennas in more than 70 countries through<br />
Thales France.<br />
DGA, French MOD - Has been an active customer for Lerc during the last 30 years, spare<br />
parts as well as new programs<br />
Belgian Army - A very active customer for Lerc in Antennas<br />
Australian Army - Major contract delivered in the 1980s. Lerc currently distributes spare<br />
parts directly<br />
Masts<br />
Below is an overview of the most important customers for masts.<br />
Customer/country:<br />
Order:<br />
Thales Group, France - Very important customer for Lerc, Lerc being the main mast<br />
manufacturer for Thales France and main export programs<br />
DGA, French MOD - Has been an active customer for Lerc during the last 30 years, Buys<br />
mostly spare parts.<br />
US Army - Buys mostly spare parts after a major contract delivered between 1989<br />
and 1998 through Harris Corporation<br />
ULTRA ELECTRONICS, Canada - Buys masts for US Army and Canadian Army programs<br />
Spanish Army - New customer for LERC in motorized masts for Electronic Warfare<br />
and radars<br />
Industrial products<br />
Below is an overview of the most important customers for the Company’s industrial products.<br />
Customer/country:<br />
Order:<br />
SNCF, France - French railroad system, important customer<br />
SNCB, Belgium - Belgium railroad system, very large customer over several years<br />
Siemens, Germany - Important customer, different insulators<br />
SNECMA, France - Various dedicated applications<br />
Ultra Electronics, USA/Canada - Stable customer<br />
ALSTOM - Important customer<br />
Porsche, Germany - Various installations for different customers<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Power<br />
Below is an overview of the most important customers for the Company’s power supply products.<br />
Customer/country:<br />
Order:<br />
Kongsberg Group, Norway - Very large customer over several years<br />
FMV, Sweden (Swedish MOD) - Has been an active customer<br />
DOD, Canada - Important customer<br />
5.6.4 Major Contracts<br />
Below is a list of some of the major ongoing contracts that the Company has entered into during the<br />
past three accounting years.<br />
Year: Customer/program: Contract value: Length of contract:<br />
2001 CHF program for French Army: 1,000 masts of Approx. MEUR 15 2008<br />
20m for LOS system<br />
2002 GSM/R contract with French and Belgian Approx. MEUR 2.5 2010<br />
Railways<br />
2002 BOWMAN contract including all vehicle (and approx. MNOK 150 Ending 2006 for bulk<br />
one manpack) antennas for UK MOD<br />
2002 LINX & SAEC programs – Unmanned masts for Approx. MEUR 2.5 2007<br />
EW – French Army<br />
2003 15 year OEM agreement with Rohde & Schwarz,<br />
till 2018<br />
Germany<br />
2003 Contract for antenna systems to the Swedish approx. MNOK 22<br />
Visby stealth corvettes<br />
2003 Greece antenna contract approx. MNOK 14 Ongoing till 2009<br />
2004 Spareparts Switzerland (delivered 2004) approx. MNOK 12 2004<br />
2005 Kuwait MOD contract (delivered 2005) approx. MNOK 35 2005<br />
2005 Spare parts contract for 10 years to the<br />
2015<br />
BOWMAN program<br />
2005 OEM Contract with Harris RF Communications,<br />
2008<br />
USA<br />
2005 Croatia LOS mast program approx. MNOK 5 2006<br />
2006 FMV contract for Submarine antenna switch<br />
2006 + options<br />
system<br />
2006 Contract for HF Broadband study approx. MNOK 1.6 2006<br />
2006 ITT, Saudi Arabia SANG approx. MNOK 20 2007<br />
2006 Mast program, France approx. MNOK 50 2010<br />
Other than the contracts mentioned above and the loan agreement described in section 7.6.3 the<br />
Company is not dependent on any industrial, commercial or financial contracts.<br />
5.6.5 Order book<br />
Given the nature of the Company’s products and the market in which the Company operates, many<br />
deliveries will take place over a period of time. At the end of 2006 the Company had a strong order<br />
book, totalling about NOK 122 million. This is a historical high level, even though the order book<br />
typically increases towards the end of a year. In addition to seasonal variations, the high order book is<br />
to some extent a result of delays in deliveries combined with a substantial amount of orders related to<br />
the Company’s power and commercial products. Also, Lerc has an all time high order reserve, and<br />
there is at present a high level of activity within the shipbuilding industry, which gives the Company a<br />
stable amount of incoming orders for regular antennas.<br />
Going forward the Company is in a strong position to realize interesting market opportunities. The<br />
prospects for the power supply products overlap the prospects for the antenna and antenna systems.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
FIGURE:ORDER BOOK AS OF NOVEMBER 2006<br />
Industrial<br />
products<br />
18 %<br />
Masts<br />
21 %<br />
Power<br />
21 %<br />
Antennas<br />
40 %<br />
5.6.6 Geographic presence<br />
The Company has a strong global presence in a number of countries. Over the past three accounting<br />
years, the Company has delivered products to some 300 customers in approximately 65 countries.<br />
Comrod AS had customers in 50 countries, whereas Lerc SA had customers in 35 countries (some<br />
overlap regarding the countries) over the past three year period. The following figure shows the<br />
Company’s worldwide presence. More than 90% of the products manufactured at the Company’s<br />
factory in Tau in Norway are shipped abroad.<br />
FIGURE:THE COMPANY’S WORLDWIDE PRESENCE<br />
The following table shows the Company’s turnover by geographic market for the past three accounting<br />
years and for the 3 rd quarter of 2006.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
COMROD’S TURNOVER BY GEOGRAPHIC MARKET 2003 - 2006<br />
(in NOK mill.) per 3Q 2006 2005 2004 2003<br />
Europe 113.1 162.5 89.0 69.9<br />
America 16.7 21.3 10.6 15.4<br />
Asia 4.9 23.9<br />
Other regions 3.1 3.5 7.2 6.4<br />
Sum revenues 137.8 211.2 106.8 91.7<br />
Note: Figures for 2003 and 2004 only include financials for Comrod AS. Figures for 2005 and 2006 are based on proforma<br />
financials for Comrod AS and Lerc SA. Power supplies included from March 2006.<br />
5.7 Patents and licences<br />
The Company does not rely on any specific patents and licenses, and the Company has not patented its<br />
product technology in general. However some special solutions are patented. The manufacturing<br />
processes apply well-known technologies combined in a number of ways to form the Company’s high<br />
quality products. The Company will always consider patents or trade marking if they believe that it is<br />
strategic right and that it will not expose the product for potential copying.<br />
As of 30 September 2006 the Company’s French subsidiary, Lerc SA, held a total of 44 patents, of, 6<br />
expires in 2008, 4 expires in 2010 and 34 expires in 2012.<br />
5.8 Research and Development<br />
The Company has brought a number of products to the market by R&D projects driven by customer<br />
requirements. The Company’s R&D work is based on multi-discipline knowledge, organizational<br />
flexibility and a close relationship to end-user needs.<br />
In addition to the above mentioned customer based R&D, the Company has developed a number of<br />
products based on its on own ideas. The figure below illustrates the typical birth of a new product:<br />
FIGURE:TYPICAL BIRTH OF A NEW PRODUCT<br />
Idea<br />
Identify the<br />
need<br />
Sales<br />
Possible<br />
demand<br />
Business<br />
Management<br />
Human Resources<br />
Finance / IT<br />
QA<br />
Customer Satisfaction<br />
Engineering /<br />
Design<br />
Define the<br />
solution<br />
Productio<br />
n<br />
Provide the<br />
Over the past three accounting years and including the 3 rd quarter of 2006 the Company has spent a<br />
total of MNOK 13.8 on R&D divided as follows:<br />
2003: MNOK 2.5<br />
2004: MNOK 3.5<br />
2005: MNOK 3.6<br />
Q3 2006: MNOK 4.2<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
5.8.1 Quality control and testing<br />
The Company is recognized for its high quality products. The Company’s subsidiary Comrod AS, is<br />
ISO 9001-2000 certified for its design, development, manufacturing and marketing processes. The<br />
Company’s French subsidiary, Lerc SA, is in the process of implementing a quality policy equivalent<br />
to ISO 9001. The Company’s insulating products have been certified in accordance with EU standards.<br />
The Company’s products have been designed to withstand extreme conditions and must withstand<br />
extensive tests to ensure that the quality standards are being met.<br />
The products go through extensive testing in the Company’s on site test laboratories in Norway and<br />
France. Testing include chemical, mechanical, electrical and climatic testing.<br />
The manufacturing and technical platform is based on substantial development and experience within<br />
composites and antenna and mast manufacturing to ensure the best possible performance of the<br />
Company’s communication masts and antennas. All vital antenna components are completely<br />
protected from the elements. The antenna conductors are encapsulated in polyurethane foam, which<br />
keeps out humidity which again prevents corrosion and ensures that the conductor lies stable in the<br />
antenna sheath. The foam prevents fractures due to vibrations from engines and also enhances<br />
mechanical stability. The Howald production method 3 using fibreglass reinforced epoxy, provides the<br />
unique strength and flexibility. To achieve the optimal quality on the antenna surface, all tubes go<br />
through a grinding process before a strong two component, elastic polyurethane coating is applied. As<br />
a result salt and dirt cannot adhere, reducing the danger of sparkover and the antenna is effectively<br />
protected against water, ice and damaging UV radiation.<br />
All products are subject to extensive testing. Comrod uses the standards listed below.<br />
- MIL-STD-810F<br />
- MIL-STD-461E<br />
- MIL-STD-464<br />
- MIL-HDBK-454A<br />
- MIL-HDBK-217F<br />
- DEF-STAN 00-35<br />
- IEC 60945<br />
- IEC 60060-2<br />
- IEC 60068-2<br />
- ANSI TIA/EIA-222-F<br />
These are all well known international standards for defence and shipbourne equipment.<br />
5.9 Property, plant and equipment<br />
In Norway the Company owns a manufacturing plant at Tau, 45 minutes’ travel with ferry outside<br />
Stavanger. The plant covers about 2,771 square meters (m 2 ) and have today an approximate book<br />
value of about MNOK 11, and the insurance value is MNOK 39.<br />
The plant has been built and upgraded in the following seven steps:<br />
- 1970: New factory existing of 700m 2 production site and a 230m 2 office building.<br />
- 1972: Extension of the production site with 800m 2 included shelter.<br />
- 1982: New warehouse 201m 2<br />
- 1989: Second level on the office building 230m 2 .<br />
- 1996: Rebuilding the production plant and a new 360m 2 mechanical production compartment.<br />
- 2002: New paint compartment 300m 2 .<br />
3 The Howald production method involves winding/spinning glass fibre onto a mandrill.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
- 2004: New warehouse 180m 2 .<br />
The book value for machinery at the Company’s plant at Tau, was MNOK 10.7 per 30 September<br />
2006.<br />
In France the Company’s main asset is its plant in St. Amand lex Eaux in Northern France, about ½<br />
hour drive from Lille and 1 ½ hour drive from Paris. The plant was built in 1990 and was upgraded in<br />
2004 and 2005. The plant covers about 10,000 square metres, and the property covers some 120,000<br />
square metres. The book value of the plant was approximately EUR 2.1 million in 2005. The original<br />
cost of the plant was EUR 16 million, and the insurance value is EUR 13 million. Lerc has been in this<br />
site since 1962. The old buildings are more than 100 years old. Another part of the plant is 30 years<br />
old, and the modern one is 10 years old.<br />
Other than the two production plants and machinery, the Company has no other material fixed assets,<br />
and the Company leases no assets or properties other than one minor lease contract for machinery,<br />
which will expire in 1Q 2007.<br />
5.10 The environment<br />
The Company does not release any substances into the surrounding environment which require any<br />
kind of permit, and no health hazards are associated with its products. Remains from production are<br />
sent to an approved disposal centre. This also applies to special waste, such as oil emulsions. Other<br />
waste is separated at source and deposited at the inter-authority waste disposal site. The Company<br />
complies with the current environmental regulations in France and Norway.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
6 MARKET OVERVIEW<br />
The Company confirms that information in this section which has been sourced from third parties has<br />
been accurately reproduced and that as far as the Company is aware and is able to ascertain from<br />
information published by such third parties, no facts have been omitted which would render the<br />
reproduced information inaccurate or misleading.<br />
6.1 Overview of the market<br />
The main focus of this chapter is the market for antennas, masts and power supplies for defence and<br />
civilian applications since these products constitute, or is expected to constitute, the main part of the<br />
Company’s turnover. Since the Company in particular targets the defence sector, there is a more<br />
detailed overview of this segment of the market than the market for civilian/commercial products in<br />
which the Company operates.<br />
6.1.1 The defence market<br />
General<br />
Following 11 September 2001 and the subsequent “War on Terror”, the global defence sector,<br />
measured by the world military expenditure, has increased substantially. In addition to the perceived<br />
threat from various terrorist groups over the recent years, an increasing number of conflict areas and<br />
war zones worldwide has led to an escalating demand for military products, including highly<br />
sophisticated communications systems.<br />
The global military expenditure increased by 3.4% from 2004 to 2005, and by 34% in the 10-year<br />
period from 1996 to 2005. The total world market amounted to USD 1,118 billion in 2005. This<br />
represents approximately 2.5% of the world total GDP or an average spending of USD 173 per capita.<br />
FIGURE:GLOBAL MILITARY EXPENDITURE 1996 TO 2005 – IN BILLION USD<br />
1200<br />
1118<br />
1000<br />
800<br />
747 756 748 757<br />
784 800<br />
851<br />
914<br />
969<br />
600<br />
400<br />
200<br />
0<br />
1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005<br />
Source: Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, 2005 yearbook<br />
A decreasing number of countries are responsible for a growing proportion of the spending. The 15<br />
largest spenders accounted for 84% of the total world market. The US alone is responsible for 48% of<br />
the total global expenditure on military products, followed by the UK, France, Japan and China with<br />
some 4 – 5% each. The rapid increase in the US’ military spending can to a large extent be attributed<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
to the costly ongoing military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Also, in 2005 the effects of the<br />
hurricanes Katrina and Rita also played an important role.<br />
Another factor that has influenced the increase in military expenditure is the high prices on minerals,<br />
oil and gas. Military expenditure in countries like Algeria, Azerbaijan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Chile and<br />
Peru are to a large extent resource-driven. Increased military spending from countries like China and<br />
India, on the other hand, are linked to their economic growth.<br />
FIGURE:THE 10 COUNTRIES WITH THE HIGHEST MILITARY SPENDING IN 2005 – IN BILLION USD<br />
0 100 200 300 400 500 600<br />
USA<br />
478,2<br />
UK<br />
France<br />
Japan<br />
China<br />
Germany<br />
Italy<br />
Saudi Arabia<br />
Russia<br />
India<br />
48,3<br />
46,2<br />
42,1<br />
41<br />
33,2<br />
27,2<br />
25,2<br />
21<br />
20,4<br />
Source: Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, 2005 yearbook<br />
Market characteristics<br />
The defence sector is highly project driven, and demand can be extremely volatile driven by defence<br />
programs initiated by governments, usually handled by various Ministries of Defence (“MoD”). A<br />
number of suppliers and sub-suppliers may be involved in one single program, and the decision<br />
process may last for several years. Suppliers have to qualify by meeting pre-defined quality standards,<br />
e.g. like the NATO standard for communication on military vehicles. Once qualified, the manufacturer<br />
may need to take part in extensive research and development programs to tailor-make the product(s) to<br />
the end-user’s needs before the actual delivery takes place. Manufacturing and delivery can typically<br />
take place over a period of time targeting different “milestones” throughout the project. Once the main<br />
delivery has been completed, the supplier will typically undertake to deliver spare parts to the products<br />
for a specified number of years. Consequently, a defence order may last for several years, including<br />
spare parts delivery. It is not uncommon for a defence contract to last for ten to twenty years. As a<br />
result, having signed a contract, the manufacturer will have secured an order backlog over a relatively<br />
long period of time. The contract lengths and the fact that the products are usually tailor-made to each<br />
customer, reduces the risk of competition from substitute products substantially. The barriers to entry<br />
in the defence market can be characterized as relatively high.<br />
Given that the time to market products in the defence sector takes so long, building relationships over<br />
time is a key factor to success. Suppliers need to be active within lobbying towards both customers,<br />
like OEMs, and the end-users (usually Ministries of Defence).<br />
To some extent deliveries to the defence sector can be characterized as cyclical. This can be attributed<br />
to two factors. First, orders are mainly project based. Once a contract has been secured, the timing of<br />
the bulk deliveries will be predictable, both in terms of timing and quantities. Secondly, the spare part<br />
delivery programs will normally represent a yearly order, which is typically a percentage (often 10 –<br />
15%) of the bulk order. Such spare part orders often materialize at the end of a calendar year. The size<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
of the spare part orders will often be a function of the activity level in the project in general, and may<br />
therefore not occur every year.<br />
Most defence programs, whether comprising vehicles, airplanes or ships or a combination of these,<br />
will include communication equipment. Large defence programs will therefore as a rule trigger the<br />
demand for communication antennas and masts and also power supply products for the<br />
communication systems.<br />
Key drivers in military communication market<br />
The demand for communication equipment for the defence sector, is mainly driven by the following<br />
factors:<br />
The demand for communication<br />
Communication is essential in today’s military operations. The trend is towards more and more<br />
sophisticated communication systems where one single antenna or mast is packed with more<br />
technology and a number of different frequencies, in so-called “smart systems”. Integrated systems<br />
including masts, antennas and power supply solutions is to an increasing extent preferred by the OEMs<br />
and end-users. As a result there is a large upside to such smart systems for communication, and<br />
manufacturers who can supply such systems, are expected to gain an edge over competitors.<br />
Speed and reliance of communication<br />
The speed and reliance at which the communication is transferred, will be increasingly more important<br />
for the end-users. Most of the leading suppliers within military communication moves towards<br />
broadband technology and wireless communication. Given the use of the communication products,<br />
both the equipment and the technology must be manufactured to withstand extreme conditions and<br />
harsh environments, and manufacturers who can supply such products will have a competitive<br />
advantage.<br />
Military projects<br />
Defence projects will continue to be a key driver for demand within this sector. A large defence<br />
project may increase the market size for communication solutions substantially. The implementation<br />
of large defence projects will typically be driven by one of two things; 1) the need to upgrade old and<br />
obsolete equipment, and 2) the amount of global military operations. The perceived threat to world<br />
peace, e.g. through the level of terrorism activity or threats, may also play an important role in<br />
governments’ decisions to increase their defence budgets. Large nature disasters, may also contribute<br />
to a government’s increase in military spending.<br />
Future trends<br />
For future military projects it seems that the trend moves towards highly mobile units with<br />
sophisticated communication equipment. Today’s soldier is becoming ever more “intelligent” in the<br />
sense that he/she operates, and often carries, sophisticated communication systems. Such<br />
communication equipment can be handheld or manpack systems carried by the individual soldier. It<br />
can also include larger communications systems applied to vehicles, aircraft or shipborne<br />
communication equipment.<br />
Many Ministries of Defence seem to change their priorities to spend more money on sophisticated<br />
equipment rather than on large armies. As a result, military equipment is becoming both more<br />
sophisticated and more expensive. The demand for military equipment, including communication<br />
systems, is increasing, and competition seems to become more fierce.<br />
This demand for more high-tech communication technology can be compared to the telecom market,<br />
where there is a clear trend towards convergence of technologies allowing for the transmission of<br />
voice, data and images at the same time (multi-band transmission). In the early days the antennas used<br />
to include voice only capabilities. Now there is an emerging demand for different combinations of<br />
transmission with high data and high capacity requirements. This will most likely shift demand from<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
narrow band in low frequencies to broadband in high frequencies. This trend has been enhanced due to<br />
the fact that more and more communications equipment are now mounted onto an installation platform<br />
(vehicle, navy, shelters, etc.) This again reinforces the need for more sophisticated antennas as well as<br />
systems to solve these demands.<br />
There is a growing demand for fast deployment of equipment with high tacticity. The need for rapid<br />
deployment and mobile units, is expected to further trigger the demand for more compact<br />
communication equipment involving integrated mast and antenna solutions and “smart boxes” with<br />
more technology “packed” on a single mast or antenna.<br />
In general there is less competition in the high-end of the market. This is due to the fact that products<br />
are developed over time in close cooperation with the customers and end-users and also that long-term<br />
relationships play an important role.<br />
The demand for masts, antennas and communication systems will be affected by the ongoing market<br />
trends for defence products. When it comes to masts, it is expected that future US combat systems will<br />
require highly mobile communication vehicles with 10 to 30m masts with rapid deployment<br />
capabilities and heavy toploads. For antennas, the demand is expected to grow for high technology<br />
products made of durable materials, such as composites. In line with the need for rapid deployment<br />
and the “smart soldier”, an increase in demand for hand-held units and uniform kits is expected.<br />
6.1.2 The market for civilian/commercial applications of antennas<br />
The type of antennas manufactured by the Company, can be used for a number of civilian or<br />
commercial applications. The Company has a strong brand name within marine antennas, and supplies<br />
antennas to all types of ships, from large offshore vessels, tug boats, tank ships, roll-on/roll-off ships,<br />
and cruise boats.<br />
The market for marine antennas can be characterized as a mass market, and the antennas are typically<br />
off-the shelf products. Compared to the defence sector, the antennas are similar, but there is more<br />
standardisation in this end of the market. The quality standards are less rigid, than for defence<br />
antennas.<br />
Since products are more standardized, a larger part of the distribution can be sold trough agents or<br />
distributors. The distributors typically buy the antennas to keep in stock and thereby carries the risk<br />
related to stock. The suppliers often recruit distributors through participation at trade fairs.<br />
To some extent marine antennas are sold directly to the customers, such as shipyards, who build the<br />
entire ships including outfitting - and communication equipment. Newbuildings make up an important<br />
part of this market. Radio manufacturers also constitute an important customer group within the<br />
commercial antenna segment.<br />
6.1.3 The market for industrial products<br />
The Company delivers industrial products within two niche segments, i) structural composites and ii)<br />
insulation products.<br />
Structural composites<br />
The structural composites market is characterized by high-end contract development and<br />
manufacturing. The Company supplies tubes for two main applications. The first is manufacturing<br />
tubes for oil and gas industries, and the other includes rocket and missiles launch tubes for defence<br />
customers. The defence market is described in more detail above.<br />
The oil and gas industry has over the past couple of years experienced an substantial growth. A large<br />
number of new oil exploration rigs and vessels has been ordered in the past two years, and the industry<br />
has a large order backlog. The figure below illustrates the positive development in the oil service<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
industry for the period 1994 and till today. The activity in the oil and gas industry is a main driver for<br />
the demand for drilling tubes.<br />
FIGURE: OIL SERVICE PERFORMANCE 1994 TO 2006 BASED ON THE NORWEGIAN OIL SERVICE<br />
INDEX<br />
500<br />
Oil Service Performance 1994-2006<br />
400<br />
300<br />
Index<br />
200<br />
100<br />
0<br />
94 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06<br />
Source: Reuters EcoWin<br />
Source: Reuters EcoWin<br />
These are the main factors for investments and product development within the structural composites<br />
market:<br />
- Current material, processes<br />
- Vertical integration (engineering, composite processes, complementary technologies, testing)<br />
- Highly-engineered products<br />
- Customized specifications<br />
- Study and development, leading to manufacturing<br />
In general the structural composites market is highly profitable and characterized by long-term<br />
contracts. This is an R&D driven niche market with relatively high margins. The barriers to entry are<br />
relatively high due to a high level of investments, multiplicity of processes and product development<br />
through fabrication and testing. The time to market is relatively long, and long-term relationships to<br />
the clients is a pre-requisite.<br />
Insulation products<br />
The market for the type of insulation products in which the Company operates, does not show a stable<br />
demand as purchases to a large degree depend on investments within European Railways. To a large<br />
extent the market adheres to European railway standards.<br />
The high-end of the market include railways and high-voltage transmission and other niche products.<br />
Insulating products is becoming a commodity type of product, especially in the low-end of the market,<br />
and manufacturing is to an increasing extent moving offshore to Asian countries. Customers have<br />
become increasingly more price sensitive and there is a strong focus on cutting costs on raw materials<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
and fittings. There are a number of players and the market can be characterized as fragmented. It is<br />
also a very competitive market.<br />
Since the market is moving towards a commodity type market, relationships are becoming less<br />
important, whereas price is becoming an increasingly important factor.<br />
6.1.4 The market for power supplies<br />
The market for power supply products is very fragmented with many small suppliers. Comrod is at an<br />
early stage in its ownership of this product range. However with the potential and strategic market<br />
position that Comrod/Lerc possesses it gives this niche product range a superior position.<br />
This is a segment where most of the contracts are based on inquiries, offers and purchase orders. The<br />
trends for this segment are similar to the trends for the antenna segment. On the product side, the<br />
demand for LiIon and smart batteries seem to replace the demand for NiCad batteries. There is also a<br />
trend towards more compact products and “smart solutions” as is also the case for antennas.<br />
The type of customers match the market for antennas to a large degree and there is substantial<br />
opportunities with cross-selling for suppliers offering both antennas and power supplies.<br />
6.2 Market shares and competition<br />
In the following, competition and market shares for each of the Company’s main product groups, i.e.<br />
antennas, masts, industrial products and power supplies, are described in more detail.<br />
It should be noted though, that some level of discretion regarding the actual deliveries and the value of<br />
the contracts is typical for the defence sector. Given the characteristics of the market and the type of<br />
products delivered, a number of the players, including suppliers, OEMs and end-users, do not disclose<br />
information, or they only disclose selected information, regarding the contracts entered into. In many<br />
cases customers also prefer to remain anonymous. As a result, it is not possible to estimate the exact<br />
size of the total market for the products. Based on its market knowledge the Company has, however,<br />
estimated market sizes and market shares for the main market segments in which the Company<br />
competes. See more information in the following sections.<br />
6.2.1 Antennas<br />
The global market for composite antenna products in which Comrod competes, is estimated to<br />
approximately NOK 912 million, of which the European market is estimated to NOK 283 million, the<br />
US market is estimated to NOK 379 million and other regions make up NOK 250 million.<br />
Competition in the antenna market<br />
The Company had a combined market share of approximately 12% of the global market in 2006. This<br />
include antennas for the defence segment as well as marine antennas for the commercial segment.<br />
The market for the Company’s antenna products is relatively fragmented. However, the five largest<br />
players, Comrod, Shakespeare, RA Miller and Antenna Products, control approximately 36% of the<br />
market. During 2006 Comrod slightly increased its total market share, and is estimated to have a<br />
market share of 13.5% at the end of 2006.<br />
The table below gives a breakdown of the market and competition in Europe and the US for the<br />
segment of the antenna market in which the Company operates.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
OVERVIEW OF THE GLOBAL MARKET FOR COMROD RELATED COMPOSITE ANTENNA PRODUCTS<br />
Figures per 2005<br />
Company Market share local Market share global<br />
Comrod 26 % 8 %<br />
Lerc 12 % 4 %<br />
Tadiran 21 % 7 %<br />
Racal 12 % 4 %<br />
Others Europe 28 % 9 %<br />
Sum Europe 100% 31 %<br />
Shakespeare 21% 9 %<br />
RA Miller 20 % 8 %<br />
Antenna Products 16 % 7 %<br />
Aero Antenna 11 % 5 %<br />
Trivec 11 % 5 %<br />
Radial Larsen 7 % 3 %<br />
Others USA 14 % 6 %<br />
Sum USA 100% 42%<br />
Other regions 27%<br />
Total market size 100%<br />
Source: Comrod’s estimates<br />
Below is a brief overview of the Company’s main competitors.<br />
Shakespeare<br />
Shakespeare Electronic Products Group is a US manufacturer of marine and military antennas. The<br />
company has a particularly strong focus on broadband technology, and has a fairly diversified product<br />
specter. The company has more than a 100 years of history.<br />
RA Miller<br />
The US company R.A. Miller Industries, Inc. began engineering and manufacturing antenna systems<br />
for the US Military in 1956. In addition to marine and military antennas, the company also develops<br />
and manufactures antennas for the commercial market, such as automotive and aviation applications.<br />
The company has also been involved in the US Space Program. RA Miller mainly operates within the<br />
US market.<br />
Antenna Products<br />
Antenna Products Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of the publicly owned US company,<br />
Phazar Corp. The company designs, manufactures and markets antenna systems, towers and<br />
communication accessories worldwide. The United States government, military and civil agencies, and<br />
prime contractors represent Antenna Products Corporation’s principal customers. The company was<br />
incorporated in 1984 to continue a business started in 1972.<br />
Tadiran<br />
Tadiran Communications Ltd. is a listed company with headquarters in Israel. The company has over<br />
40 years of experience in military communications technology. The company utilizes its expertise for<br />
civilian applications as well as communications solutions tailored to the government and military<br />
markets. Tadiran delivers to customers around the world.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Comrod’s competitive position<br />
Compared to its most important competitors, Comrod is at the high end of the market, and the<br />
Company is currently in the process of diversifying. If succeeding in an ongoing development project,<br />
the Company sees the opportunity to further strengthen its position in the antenna market.<br />
Within the antenna market targeted by Comrod, the Company has the following main competitive<br />
advantages:<br />
- Antenna performance<br />
- Mechanical and radio electrical<br />
- High quality, competitive prices<br />
- Partnerships and relationships<br />
- OEMs<br />
- Ministries of Defence and armies in Europe and globally<br />
- Product offerings<br />
- Capability of combining antenna and mast systems and “smart systems”<br />
- Wide range, compatible with all main current and future defence programs<br />
- Composite technology<br />
- Control of the whole production process<br />
- Production, R&D and testing<br />
6.2.2 Masts<br />
The market for communication masts targeted by the Company is estimated to approximately NOK<br />
507 million worldwide of which the US market amounts to approx. MNOK 280, Europe comprise<br />
approx. MNOK 177 and other regions make up approx. MNOK 50.<br />
The mast market is a relatively concentrated market with the four largest manufacturers controlling<br />
approximately 75% of this market, with Will-Burt as the most dominant player holding some 39% of<br />
the market. The second largest player is Mastsystems, with a market share of approximately 18%. The<br />
Company was the fourth largest player in this market segment holding a share of the market of<br />
approximately 4% in 2005. The Company is increasing its markets share and is currently estimated to<br />
have a 6% market share within the mast segment.<br />
The Company’s products are at the high end of the market, and the Company is diversifying. There is<br />
an opportunity to further strengthen the Company’s market position through a challenging<br />
development project that is currently in process.<br />
Competition in the mast market<br />
The table below gives a breakdown of the market and competition in Europe and the US (Company<br />
estimates) for the segment of the mast market in which the Company competes.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
OVERVIEW OF THE GLOBAL MARKET FOR COMROD RELATED COMPOSITE MAST PRODUCTS<br />
Figures per 2005<br />
Company Market share local Market share global<br />
Comrod (Lerc) 17% 6%<br />
Mastsystems 51% 18%<br />
Wibe 8% 3%<br />
Larimart 11% 4%<br />
Racal 11% 4%<br />
Others 1% 0%<br />
Sum Europe 100% 35%<br />
Will-Burt 71% 39%<br />
The Mast Comp 7% 4%<br />
Clark Masts 18% 10%<br />
Others 4% 2%<br />
Sum USA 100% 55%<br />
Other regions 10%<br />
Sum masts 100%<br />
Source: Comrod’s estimates<br />
The main competitors within mast products are Will-Burt, Mastsystems and Clark Masts. In the<br />
following is a brief description of these companies.<br />
Will-Burt<br />
Will-Burt is a US based Company, located in Ohio, and a manufacturer of tactical masts for a variety<br />
of worldwide commercial, mobile, industrial and military applications. Most of the turnover is made in<br />
the commercial market. Will-Burt has a range of telescopic masts competing against the heavy duty<br />
masts of Comrod/Lerc for EW. This is the largest company within the mast area, and holds a very<br />
strong market position globally.<br />
Mastsystems<br />
MastSystems is a Finnish company recently bought by Racal Antennas (UK). MastSystems is<br />
specialized in Telescopic Tactical Masts made of composite, mainly dedicated to LOS systems.<br />
MastSystems has a strong position in the USA and in the Middle East, and is the company within the<br />
mast segment that has had the strongest growth during the past three years. Mastsystems and Comrod<br />
have had a similar development over the past few years.<br />
Clark Masts<br />
Clark Masts is a company located in the UK and Belgium. It competes again Comrod/Lerc in the<br />
sleeve masts market and in the light telescopic masts. In the last years, ClarkMast has been mainly<br />
concentrating in the lighting supports more than in antenna supports. Clark Masts has been in the<br />
market for a long time. They have a similar product range as Lerc, and mainly operates in the UK<br />
market.<br />
Comrod’s competitive position<br />
Comrod’s competitive advantage within the mast segment, is a combination of the following factors:<br />
- Performance of the masts<br />
- Mechanical performance<br />
- Durable products with easy maintenance<br />
- Heavy payloads<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
- Partnerships and relationships<br />
- OEMs<br />
- Ministries of Defence and armies in Europe and globally<br />
- Product offerings<br />
- Designed to meet customer specifications<br />
- High quality and tacticity<br />
- Composite technology<br />
- Mastering of the whole production process<br />
- Modeling, calculation and live test capability<br />
6.2.3 Industrial products<br />
The Company’s industrial products include i) structural composites and ii) insulating products as<br />
described above. The industrial products manufactured by the Company are targeted towards a niche<br />
market.<br />
The market for these industrial products is relatively fragmented, and there is a lack of official market<br />
data. The market size is assumed to be relatively large, but there are no official market data and the<br />
Company has no estimates for the total market size and market shares because this is a niche market<br />
activity.<br />
For insulators the Company, through its subsidiary Lerc, is one of three suppliers that are pre-qualified<br />
in the French home market.<br />
Structural composite products are meeting a demanding need internationally, especially within the oil<br />
and gas sector.<br />
Competition<br />
For the insulating products market, there are five to six major global players delivering to specific<br />
market niches. In the market segment in which the Company operates there are two other main<br />
players, one French and one Italian company. Both of these competitors delivers ceramic or porcelain<br />
insulators, which differ from the Company’s composite based insulating products. The other main<br />
competitors are Chinese and Indian companies.<br />
The main competitors are:<br />
- Seves (former Sediver): French company bought by an Italian group, and transferred to Brazil<br />
- Rebosio: Italian company concentrated in railways applications<br />
- Sefag: Swiss manufacturer with good activity in Eastern Europe<br />
The Company has obtained certification in accordance with EU standards and also has railways<br />
utilities qualifications for its insulating products. The products comply with mechanical and electrical<br />
test capabilities, and the Company has a strong R&D focus. The Company’s expertise within<br />
composites is also a competitive advantage within this market segment.<br />
For structural composites the Company offers design and calculation capabilities. These products are<br />
highly engineered and made to comply with customer specifications. Manufacturing is a result of a<br />
long research and development phase, and the knowledge of the customers’ operations are important<br />
factors to success. The production is characterised by vertical integration combining engineering,<br />
composite processes, complementary technology and testing. The Company’s extensive experience<br />
from working on classified projects is an important competitive advantage.<br />
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6.2.4 Power supplies<br />
The global market for power supplies is estimated to be approximately three to four times the antenna<br />
market, i.e. in the range of up to NOK 3.6 to 4.6 billion.<br />
The Company’s power products include i) battery chargers and ii) power supplies as described earlier.<br />
This segment is targeted towards a niche market and also to the Company’s existing customer base.<br />
For these products the manufacturing is outsourced.<br />
The market for these products is relatively fragmented, and there is a lack of official market data. The<br />
market size is estimated to be four times the antenna area. In a premature start-up phase, however, and<br />
with already established customer relationships, the opportunities for power supplies are be considered<br />
as positive. The Company expects the growth potential to be substantial based on the potential for<br />
cross-sales to the existing customer base.<br />
Competition<br />
The market place is very fragmented with a number of small players. The following key competitors<br />
are identified;<br />
- Xcel Power System LTD, England<br />
- Vision Power LTD, England<br />
- Efore, Finland<br />
- DiCom, Czech Rep.<br />
- Bren Tronics Inc. USA<br />
- Behlman El Inc. USA<br />
- Lambda Inc. USA<br />
- Analytica Systems, Canada<br />
These companies are all involved with the same applications as Comrod. The similarity is that they are<br />
all relatively small and niche focused against their home markets. There are many other companies<br />
(some very large ones), that manufacture power supplies and chargers but targeted more towards<br />
standard commercial applications.<br />
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7 FINANCIAL INFORMATION<br />
This chapter gives an overview of the Company’s financial condition. In order to fully understand the<br />
Company’s financial condition, this chapter should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited<br />
annual and interim reports. Historical financial information, including annual reports and audit reports,<br />
can be found on the Company’s website at www.comrod.com. The most recent financial statements,<br />
i.e. the annual report for 2005 and the interim report for the 3 rd quarter of 2006, can be found in<br />
Appendix 2 and 3 to this Prospectus. The IFRS adjusted financial figures for the past three accounting<br />
years and the figures for the 3 rd quarter of 2006, which have been subject to a limited review, are<br />
presented in section 7.3. The effects from the transition from NGAAP to IFRS are shown in section<br />
7.2. In connection with the Company’s acquisition of Lerc, pro-forma financial statements have been<br />
prepared. The pro forma figures are presented in section 7.4 of this Prospectus.<br />
7.1 Significant accounting policies<br />
7.1.1 General information<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> will not be the parent company of the group until the Demerger is<br />
effective (expected to be medio January 2007, for further description of the demerger, please refer to<br />
section 4.2 of this Prospectus). The following financial information includes Comrod AS. The<br />
historical financial information presented does not include Fidulerc/Lerc except for the balance sheet<br />
at 30 September 2006 and income statement for the 3 rd quarter 2006. Fidulerc SA and its subsidiary<br />
Lerc SA was acquired 29 June 2006. The purchase was subject to approval of French authorities<br />
regarding competitive regulations. Comrod AS received the necessary approval by French authorities<br />
medio September 2006. Hence, consolidation and purchase price allocation of Fidulerc/Lerc started<br />
medio September 2006.<br />
Comrod AS has not published any audited stand-alone financial statements prepared in accordance to<br />
IFRS. As part of the <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> Group, IFRS has been applied in the preparation of the<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>’s consolidated financial statements for 2005. The published audited<br />
financial statements for Comrod AS for the years 2003, 2004 and 2005 were prepared in accordance<br />
with the Norwegian Accounting Act and Norwegian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.<br />
7.1.2 Basis for preparation<br />
The following consolidated financial statements for the Comrod AS Group are prepared in accordance<br />
with the international reporting standards published by the International Accounting Standards Board,<br />
as adopted by the European Union (EU). Comparative figures for 2004 have been restated. As these<br />
are the company’s first IFRS accounts, IFRS 1, First-Time Adoption of International Financial<br />
Reporting Standards, has been adopted in preparing Comrod AS Group’s opening balance sheet at 1.<br />
January 2004. The effect of transition to IFRS is presented in section 7.2.The measurement basis used<br />
is historical cost, except for derivatives which are measured at fair value according to IAS 39.<br />
7.1.3 Functional currency and presentation currency<br />
The group presents its financial statements in NOK. Functional currency for the Norwegian companies<br />
is NOK. For the French companies the functional currency is EUR. For consolidation purposes,<br />
balance sheet figures for subsidiaries which have a different functional currency are translated at the<br />
exchange rate on the balance sheet date, and income statement figures are translated at the average<br />
exchange rate for the period. Exchange differences are recognised as a separate component of equity.<br />
On disposal of a foreign subsidiary, any accumulated exchange differences are recognised in the<br />
income statement.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
7.1.4 Basis for consolidation<br />
The consolidated financial statements comprise Comrod AS and companies where Comrod AS has a<br />
controlling interest. A controlling interest is normally attained when the group owns, either directly or<br />
indirectly, more than 50% of the shares in a company, and the group is in a position to exercise actual<br />
control over the company.<br />
The purchase method is applied when accounting for business combinations. Companies which have<br />
been acquired or sold during the year are consolidated from/until the date when control is<br />
obtained/ceases.<br />
Intra-company transactions and balances, including internal earnings and unrealised profits/losses, are<br />
eliminated. Unrealised losses are correspondingly eliminated, provided there is no evidence of any<br />
impairment of the asset sold internally.<br />
The consolidated financial statements are prepared using uniform accounting policies for identical<br />
transactions and events in similar circumstances.<br />
7.1.5 Cash & cash equivalents<br />
Cash includes bank and cash balances. The cash-flow statement is prepared using the indirect method.<br />
7.1.6 Trade receivables<br />
Trade receivables are carried at amortised cost. The interest element is disregarded if it is insignificant.<br />
Should there be objective evidence of a fall in value, the difference between the carrying amount and<br />
the present value of future cash flows is recognised as a loss, discounted by the receivable amount’s<br />
effective interest rate.<br />
7.1.7 Hedging<br />
Before any hedging transaction is undertaken, the financial director will assess whether a derivative is<br />
to be used to hedge a) the fair value of an asset or liability, b) future cash flows from an investment,<br />
debt payment or future identified transaction or c) a net investment in a foreign operation.<br />
The group uses the following criteria to classify a derivative as a hedging instrument: (1) the hedge is<br />
expected to be highly effective in offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows attributable to an<br />
identified asset, and hedge effectiveness is expected to lie within the range 80%-125%, (2) hedge<br />
effectiveness can be measured reliably, (3) there is adequate documentation at the inception of the<br />
hedge to demonstrate that the hedge is highly effective, (4) in the case of cash flow hedges, the<br />
impending transaction must be highly probable, and (5) the hedge is regularly assessed and has proved<br />
to be effective throughout the reporting periods for which it is designated.<br />
(i) Fair value hedge<br />
Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated as fair value hedges are recognised in the<br />
income statement. Correspondingly, a change in the fair value of the hedged object is recognised in the<br />
income statement, as is the net gain or loss.<br />
Hedge accounting discontinues when:<br />
(a) The hedging instrument expires, is sold, terminated or exercised; or<br />
(b) The hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedging stated above.<br />
When hedge accounting is discontinued, the adjustments made to the carrying amount of the hedged<br />
object are amortized over the remaining life using the effective interest rate.<br />
(ii) Cash flow hedges<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
The portion of gain or loss on a hedging instrument that is determined to be a highly effective cash<br />
flow hedge is recognised directly in equity. The ineffective portion of the gain or loss on the hedging<br />
instrument is recognised in the income statement.<br />
If the hedge of a cash flow results in an asset or liability being recognised, all former gains and losses<br />
recognised directly in equity are transferred from equity and included in the initial measurement of the<br />
asset or liability. For other cash flow hedges, associated gains and losses recognised directly in equity<br />
are recognised in the income statement in the same period as the cash flow which comprises the<br />
hedged object is recognised in the income statement.<br />
When a hedging instrument ceases to be highly effective, hedge accounting is discontinued<br />
prospectively. In this case, the cumulative gain or loss on the hedging instrument recognised directly<br />
in equity remains separately recognised in equity until the future identified transaction occurs.<br />
If the hedge transaction is no longer expected to occur, any previously accumulated gain or loss on the<br />
hedging instrument that has been recognised directly in equity will be recognised in profit or loss.<br />
(iii) Hedges of a net investment in a foreign operation<br />
The company has taken positions in EUR in order to hedge its net investment in foreign operations.<br />
Changes in the currency derivatives designated for hedging are reported as exchange differences in the<br />
Group’s equity until the investment is disposed of, after which accumulated exchange differences<br />
relating to the investment are recognised in the income statement. The ineffective portion of the hedge<br />
is recognised in profit or loss.<br />
7.1.8 Inventories<br />
Inventories, including work in progress, are carried at the lower of cost and fair value less costs to sell.<br />
The fair value less cost to sell is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less the<br />
estimated costs of completion, and estimated costs necessary to make the sale. Inventories are<br />
measured by using the weighted average cost formula. Finished goods and work in progress include<br />
variable costs and fixed costs that can be allocated to goods based on normal capacity. Obsolete<br />
inventories have been fully recognised as impairment losses.<br />
7.1.9 Non-current assets<br />
Non-current assets are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. When<br />
assets are sold or disposed of, the gross carrying amount and accumulated depreciation are<br />
derecognised, and any gain or loss on the sale or disposal is recognised in the income statement.<br />
The cost of a non-current asset comprises its purchase price, including duties/taxes, and any directly<br />
attributable costs of bringing the asset to working condition for its intended use. Subsequent cost on<br />
repairs or maintenance of assets is recognised as an expense when incurred. Subsequent expenditure<br />
on repair and maintenance of property, plant or equipment which will generate future economic<br />
benefits is capitalised.<br />
Depreciable amounts are calculated using the straight-line method over the following periods:<br />
Buildings ..................................................... 6 - 40 years<br />
Plant and equipment ................................... 3 - 8 years<br />
Fixtures & fittings, motor vehicles.............. 4 - 10 years<br />
The depreciation period and method is assessed on an annual basis to ensure that the method and<br />
period used reflect the expected pattern of economic benefits from the asset. The same applies to scrap<br />
value.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Plants under construction is classified as property, plant and equipment and is recognised at the<br />
incurred costs associated with the asset. Plants under construction is not subject to depreciation until<br />
the asset is taken into use.<br />
7.1.10 Impairment of assets<br />
An assessment of impairment losses on assets is made when there is an indication of a fall in value. If<br />
an asset’s carrying amount is higher than the asset’s recoverable amount, an impairment loss will be<br />
recognised in the income statement. The recoverable amount is the higher of the fair value less costs to<br />
sell and the discounted cash flow from continued use. The fair value less costs to sell is the amount<br />
that can be obtained from a sale to an independent third party minus the sales costs. The recoverable<br />
amount is determined separately for all assets but, if this is impossible, it is determined together with<br />
the entity to which the assets belong.<br />
With the exception of goodwill, impairment losses recognised in the income statements for previous<br />
periods are reversed when there is information that the need for the impairment loss no longer exists or<br />
is not as great as it was. The reversal is recognised as revenue or an increase in other reserves.<br />
However, no reversal takes place if the reversal leads to the carrying amount exceeding what the<br />
carrying amount would have been if normal depreciation periods had been used.<br />
7.1.11 Leasing<br />
Finance leases<br />
A lease is classified as a finance lease if it transfers to the group substantially all the risks and rewards<br />
incidental to ownership of a leased asset. The group presents finance leases in the financial statements<br />
as assets and liabilities, at amounts equal the cost price of the asset or, if lower present value of the<br />
cash flow to the lease. The discount rate to be used in calculating the present value of the minimum<br />
lease payments is the interest rate implicit in the lease, when it can be determined; if not, the<br />
company’s marginal borrowing rate in the market is used. Direct costs in connection with leasing<br />
activities are included in the asset’s cost price. Monthly lease payments are separated into an interest<br />
element and a repayment element Interest cost is allocated to periods during the lease term, so as to<br />
produce a constant periodic rate of interest for each period.<br />
Assets which are part of a finance lease are depreciated. The depreciation period is consistent with that<br />
for depreciable assets which are owned by the group. If there is no reasonable certainty that the group<br />
will obtain ownership by the end of the lease term, the asset is fully depreciated over the shorter of the<br />
lease term or the depreciation period for depreciable assets owned by the group.<br />
If a sale and leaseback transaction results in a finance lease, any gain will be postponed and recognised<br />
as revenue over the period of the lease.<br />
Operating leases<br />
A lease is classified as an operating lease if it does not transfer to the group substantially all the risks<br />
and rewards incidental to ownership. Lease payments are classified as an operating expense and<br />
recognised as an expense over the lease term.<br />
If a sale and leaseback transaction results in an operating lease, and it is clear that the transaction is<br />
established at fair value, any gain or loss is recognised immediately. If the sale price is below fair<br />
value, any gain or loss is recognised immediately except that, if the loss is compensated by future<br />
lease payments at below market price, it is amortised over the lease term. If the sale price is above fair<br />
value, the excess over fair value is amortised over the period for which the asset is expected to be<br />
used.<br />
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7.1.12 Financial instruments<br />
IAS 39, Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, states that financial instruments are<br />
classified into the following categories: at fair value through profit or loss, held-to-maturity<br />
investments, loans and receivables, available-for-sale and other liabilities.<br />
Financial instruments held to maturity are included in financial assets, unless the maturity date is<br />
within 12 months of the balance sheet date. Financial instruments held for trading are classified as<br />
current assets. Available-for-sale financial instruments are also reported as current assets if the<br />
management has decided to dispose of the instrument within 12 months of the balance sheet date.<br />
All purchases and sales of financial instruments are recognised on the transaction date. Transaction<br />
costs are included in the initial measurement.<br />
Financial instruments classified as available for sale and held for trading are recognised at fair value at<br />
the balance sheet date, without any deduction for costs associated with the sale.<br />
A gain or loss arising from a change in the fair value of financial investments classified as available<br />
for sale is recognised directly in equity until the financial asset is derecognised, at which time the<br />
cumulative gain or loss previously recognised in equity is reversed and recognised in profit or loss.<br />
Any changes in the fair value of financial instruments classified as held for trading are recognised in<br />
the income statement under net financial income/expense.<br />
Held-to-maturity investments are recognised at amortised cost.<br />
7.1.13 Interest bearing loans and borrowings<br />
All loans and borrowings are initially recognized at the fair value of the consideration received less<br />
directly attributable transaction costs. After initial recognition, interest bearing loans and borrowings<br />
are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Gains and losses are<br />
recognised in the income statement when the liabilities are derecognised as well as through the<br />
amortisation process.<br />
7.1.14 Intangible assets<br />
Intangible assets are recognised if it is probable that the expected future benefits attributable to the<br />
asset will flow to the company, and its cost can be measured reliably. Intangible assets are recognised<br />
at cost. Intangible assets with an indefinite useful life are not amortised, but an impairment loss is<br />
recognised if the recoverable amount is less than the carrying amount. The intangible asset is tested for<br />
impairment by comparing its recoverable amount with its carrying amount (a) annually, and (b)<br />
whenever there is an indication that the intangible asset may be impaired. Intangible assets with a<br />
finite useful life are amortised and tested for impairment. The intangible asset is amortised over its<br />
estimated useful life using the straight-line method. The amortisation period and the amortisation<br />
method for an intangible asset with a finite useful life are reviewed at least at each financial year end.<br />
7.1.15 Patents and licences<br />
Amounts paid for patents and licences are recognised in the balance sheet and amortised on a straightline<br />
basis over their useful life.<br />
7.1.16 Goodwill<br />
Goodwill acquired in a business combination is initially measured at cost being the excess of the cost<br />
of the business combination over the Group's interest in the net fair value of the acquiree's identifiable<br />
assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities. Following initial recognition, goodwill is measured at cost<br />
less any accumulated impairment losses. For the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill acquired in a<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
business combination is, from the acquisition date, allocated to each of the Group's cash generating<br />
units, or groups of cash generating units, that are expected to benefit from the synergies of the<br />
combination, irrespective of whether other assets or liabilities of the Group are assigned to those units<br />
or groups of units. Each unit or group of units to which the goodwill is allocated:<br />
- represents the lowest level within the Group at which the goodwill is monitored for internal<br />
management purposes; and<br />
- is not larger than a segment based on either the Group's primary or the Group's secondary reporting<br />
format determined in accordance with IAS 14, Segment Reporting.<br />
Where goodwill forms part of a cash-generating unit (group of cash generating units) and part of the<br />
operation within that unit is disposed of, the goodwill associated with the operation disposed of is<br />
included in the carrying amount of the operation when determining the gain or loss on disposal of the<br />
operation. Goodwill disposed of in this circumstance is measured based on the relative values of the<br />
operation disposed of and the portion of the cash-generating unit retained.<br />
When subsidiaries are sold, the difference between the selling price and the net assets plus cumulative<br />
translation differences and unamortised goodwill is recognised in the income statement<br />
7.1.17 Research and development<br />
Expenses relating to research are recognised in the income statement in the year in which the<br />
expenditure is incurred. Expenses relating to development are recognised in the income statement in<br />
the year in which the expenditure is incurred unless the following criteria are met in full:<br />
- the product or process is clearly defined and expenditure can be identified and measured reliably;<br />
- the technical solution for the product has been demonstrated;<br />
- the product or process will be sold or used in the business;<br />
- the asset will generate future benefits; and<br />
- sufficient technical, financial and other resources to complete the project are in place.<br />
When all criteria are met, development costs are capitalised. Costs which have been expensed in<br />
previous accounting periods are not capitalised. Capitalised development costs are amortised over the<br />
asset’s estimated useful life. The carrying amount of development costs is reviewed when there is an<br />
indication of impairment, or when impairment losses from previous periods no longer apply.<br />
7.1.18 Provisions<br />
A provision is recognised when, and only when, the company has a present obligation (legal or<br />
constructive) as a result of a past event and it is probable (more likely than not) that an outflow of<br />
resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable<br />
estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. Provisions are reviewed at each balance sheet<br />
date and adjusted to reflect the current best estimate. If the effect of the time value of money is<br />
immaterial, the amount of the provision will be equal to the expenditures required to be free of the<br />
obligation. If the effect of the time value of money is material, the amount of the provision will be the<br />
present value of the expenditures required to settle the obligation. Any increase in the provisions due<br />
to time is presented as interest costs.<br />
A provision for guarantees is recognised when the underlying products or services are sold. The<br />
provision is based on historical information about guarantees and a weighting of all possible outcomes<br />
by their associated probabilities.<br />
A provision for onerous contracts is recognised when the group’s expected economic benefits<br />
expected to be received under the contract are lower than the unavoidable costs of meeting the<br />
obligations under the contract.<br />
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7.1.19 Equity<br />
(i) Equity and liabilities<br />
Financial instruments are classified as liabilities or equity in accordance with the underlying financial<br />
reality.<br />
(ii) Own shares<br />
In the event of a share buy-back, the purchase price and any directly associated costs are recognised as<br />
a change in equity. Own shares are reported as a reduction in equity. Gains or losses on share buyback<br />
transactions are not recognised.<br />
(iii) Costs arising from equity transactions<br />
Transaction costs directly linked to an equity transaction are recognised directly in equity after a<br />
deduction for tax.<br />
(iv) Other equity<br />
(a) Exchange differences<br />
Exchange differences arise in connection with currency differences on consolidation of foreign<br />
operations.<br />
On disposal of a foreign operation, cumulative exchange differences are reversed and recognised in<br />
profit or loss in the same period in which the gain or loss on the disposal is recognised.<br />
(b) Hedge reserve<br />
The hedge reserve includes all net changes in fair value for financial instruments designated as<br />
available for sale until the investment is derecognised or until the investment is determined to be<br />
impaired.<br />
7.1.20 Revenue recognition<br />
Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the<br />
company and the revenue can be measured reliably. Sales revenue is stated net of VAT and discounts.<br />
Revenue from sale of goods is recognised when delivery has taken place and the significant risks and<br />
rewards of ownership of the goods have passed to the buyer.<br />
Revenue from the sale of services and long-term manufacturing projects is recognised by reference to<br />
the stage of completion, when the transaction outcome can be measured reliably.<br />
Royalties are recognised in accordance with the substance of the relevant royalty agreement.<br />
Interest income is recognised as interest accrues.<br />
Dividends are recognised when the shareholders’ right to receive the payment is established by the<br />
annual general meeting.<br />
7.1.21 Foreign currency<br />
Transactions in currency other than the functional currency<br />
Transactions in foreign currencies are translated at the exchange rates existing at the date of the<br />
transactions. Monetary items denominated in foreign currencies are translated to functional currency<br />
using the exchange rates ruling at the balance sheet date. Non-monetary items that are measured in<br />
terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated to functional currency using the exchange<br />
rates at the dates of the transaction. Non-monetary items measured at fair value in a foreign currency<br />
are translated using the exchange rates at the date when the fair value was determined. Exchange<br />
differences are recognised in profit or loss in the period in which they arise.<br />
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Foreign operations<br />
Assets and liabilities in foreign operations, including goodwill and fair value adjustments, which arise<br />
on consolidation, are translated to presentation currency at the closing rate. Income and expense from<br />
foreign operations is translated to presentation currency using the average monthly rate as an<br />
approximation for transaction rate. Exchange differences are recognised in equity.<br />
7.1.22 Employee benefits<br />
Defined benefit pension plans<br />
The group’s Norwegian companies offer their employees defined benefit pension plans. The defined<br />
benefit liability is the net total of the present value of future pension benefits accrued at the balance<br />
sheet date, minus the fair value of plan assets. The discount rate applies to interest on a 10-year<br />
government bond with a margin to take into consideration the bond’s maturity. The pension assets are<br />
valued by actuaries each year. The pension commitments and pension costs are determined using a<br />
linear accrual formula. A linear accrual formula distributes the accrual of future pension benefits in a<br />
straight line over the accrual period, and regards the employees’ accrued pension rights during a<br />
period as the pension costs for the year.<br />
The introduction of a new defined benefit plan or an improvement to the present plan will involve<br />
changes to the pension liability. These are recognised as an expense on a straight-line basis until the<br />
effect of the change has been accommodated. The introduction of new plans or changes to existing<br />
plans which take place retrospectively, thereby qualifying employees for a paid-up policy (or change<br />
to a paid-up policy), are recognised immediately. Gains or losses on the curtailment or settlement of<br />
pension plans are recognised when the curtailment or settlement occurs.<br />
Actuarial gains or losses are recognised directly in equity (net of tax).<br />
The French companies have a retirement indemnity obligation to their employees. The obligation is<br />
calculated based on assumptions regarding period of employment, discount rate, salary increase, age<br />
of retirement and social charges.<br />
7.1.23 Share-based payment<br />
Senior executives in the group have received options to subscribe for shares in <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong><br />
<strong>ASA</strong>. The fair value of the share options is measured at the date on which they are granted and the<br />
cost is recognised, together with a corresponding increase in other paid-in capital, over the period in<br />
which the performance and/or service conditions are fulfilled.<br />
It is not established a new share-based payment program in Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong>.<br />
7.1.24 Government grants<br />
A government grant is recognised when there is reasonable assurance that the company will comply<br />
with the conditions attaching to it, and that the grant will be received. When the grant relates to an<br />
expense item, it is recognised as income over the period necessary to match it on a systematic basis<br />
with the related costs it is intended to compensate. Grants relating to assets are capitalised and<br />
recognised as income on a systematic basis over the useful life of the asset. Grants related to assets are<br />
presented either by setting up the grant as deferred income or by deducting the grant when establishing<br />
the asset’s carrying amount.<br />
7.1.25 Income taxes<br />
Tax expense comprises current tax expense and deferred tax expense. Deferred tax liabilities are<br />
recognised for all accounting and taxable temporary differences, except to the extent that the deferred<br />
tax liability arises from:<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
- temporary differences related to goodwill for which amortisation is not deductible for tax purposes<br />
- temporary differences related to investments in subsidiaries, associates or interests in joint<br />
ventures, where the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences can be controlled by the<br />
group and it is probable that the temporary differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future.<br />
Deferred tax assets are recognised when it is probable that the company will have a sufficient profit<br />
for tax purposes to utilise the tax asset. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the future tax<br />
rates that are expected for the group companies in which temporary tax differences arise. Deferred tax<br />
assets and liabilities are recognised at nominal value and designated as financial assets (non-current<br />
liabilities) in the balance sheet. Current tax and deferred tax is charged or credited directly to equity if<br />
the tax relates to items that are credited or charged directly to equity.<br />
7.1.26 Segments<br />
For management purposes, the group is organised into different business areas according to<br />
product/service range. The group’s primary segment reporting format is business areas. The group has<br />
the following segments:<br />
- Comrod Antennas<br />
- Comrod Power Supplies<br />
- Lerc Masts, Antennas and Industrial products<br />
Financial information relating to segments is presented in appendix 3. From the fiscal year 2007 the<br />
Company expects to report revenues by product category. See also section 5.5.3.<br />
In segment reporting, internal gains on sales between segments are eliminated.<br />
7.1.27 Contingent liabilities and contingent assets<br />
Contingent liabilities are defined as:<br />
i) possible obligations resulting from past events whose existence depends on future events.<br />
ii) obligations that are not recognised because it is not probable that they will lead to an outflow of<br />
resources<br />
iii) obligations that cannot be measured with sufficient reliability.<br />
Contingent liabilities are not recognized in the financial statements. Material contingent liabilities are<br />
disclosed, unless the possibility of any outflow in settlement is remote.<br />
Contingent assets are not recognised, but are disclosed where an inflow of economic benefits is<br />
probable.<br />
7.1.28 Events after the balance sheet date<br />
New information received after the balance sheet date about the Company’s financial position at the<br />
balance sheet date is taken into account in the annual report. Material events after the balance sheet<br />
date which do not affect the company’s financial position at the balance sheet date, but which will<br />
affect the company’s financial position in the future are disclosed.<br />
7.1.29 Use of estimates<br />
Management has used estimates and sources of estimation that have affected assets, liabilities, income,<br />
expense and disclosures about potential liabilities. This particularly applies to pension liabilities,<br />
share-based payments and the measurement of goodwill. Future events may cause an adjustment to the<br />
estimates. Estimates and underlying sources of estimation are regularly reviewed. Changes to<br />
64
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the changes occur. If the changes also<br />
apply to future periods, the effect is distributed over present and future periods.<br />
7.2 Transition from NGAAP to IFRS<br />
7.2.1 Introduction<br />
The interim report as of 30 September 2006 (appendix 3) is prepared in accordance with IAS 34. The<br />
accounting principles described in section 7.1. has been applied in the preparation of the consolidated<br />
financial statements as of 30 September 2006, the restatement of the figures for 2004 and 2005 and the<br />
calculation of IFRS opening balances at 1 January 2004, which is the Group’s date of transition from<br />
NGAAP to IFRS.<br />
Preparation of IFRS opening balances has involved some adjustments to previous accounting figures<br />
prepared under NGAAP. The effect of the transition from NGAAP to IFRS on the Group’s financial<br />
statements is detailed below.<br />
7.2.2 Transition from NGAAP to IFRS<br />
IFRS 1, First-time adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards has been adopted in<br />
preparing Comrod AS Group opening balance sheet at 1 January 2004. For Comrod AS Group the<br />
most important effects of the transition are described below.<br />
Pensions<br />
All accumulated, unrecognised actuarial gains/losses relating to retirement benefit obligation at 1<br />
January 2004 have been recognised as an equity adjustment. Changed assumptions for calculation of<br />
future pension costs under IFRS involve an increase in the calculated pension expense for 2004.<br />
Financial derivatives<br />
Under NGAAP, foreign currency instruments (forwards) which met the hedging criteria were not<br />
recognised, while only unrealised losses on other foreign currency transactions were recognised.<br />
Under IFRS, all foreign currency transactions are measured at fair value and recognised in the balance<br />
sheet. Fair value changes relating to foreign currency transactions which meet the hedging criteria are<br />
recognised directly in equity until the object of the hedge transaction is realised, or the hedging is<br />
evaluated not to be effective. Both IAS 32 and IAS 39 have been implemented with effect from 1<br />
January 2004.<br />
Reclassification of long-term debt<br />
Under IFRS the first year instalment of long-term debt is classified as short-term debt.<br />
Dividends and Group Contributions<br />
Dividends and Group Contributions are under IFRS not recognised until the entity has an obligation to<br />
pay the dividend or group contribution, which generally is not until these are approved by the General<br />
Assembly. Under NGAAP dividends and group contributions were provided for at the balance sheet<br />
date in the year prior to the approval of the general assembly.<br />
Deferred tax<br />
Deferred tax assets and liabilities will be affected by the transition to IFRS due to changes in other<br />
balance sheet values as described in this section.<br />
Amortisation of goodwill<br />
Amortization of goodwill is not permitted under IFRS. Instead, goodwill is subject to impairment<br />
review, both annually and when there are indications that the carrying value may not be recoverable.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
There has been no goodwill recognised in Comrod AS Group’s financial statements until the<br />
acquisitions performed in 2006, consequently this difference will appear in the 2006 financial<br />
statements, only.<br />
Gains on sale of property, plant & equipment<br />
Under IFRS, gains on sale of property, plant and equipment is classified as a cost reduction.<br />
Share-based payment transactions<br />
Under NGAAP Share-based payment transactions has not, until the year 2005, been recognised in the<br />
Income Statement. In accordance with IFRS 2, the fair value of all options granted after 7.11.02 is<br />
recognised over the vesting period. The fair value per option is calculated using an option pricing<br />
model (Black & Scholes). Costs are recognised in profit and loss as payroll expenses together with a<br />
corresponding increase in other paid-in capital.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
7.2.3 Balance sheet 1 January 2004, transition from NGAAP to IFRS<br />
(in NOK 1000) 31.12.03 01.01.2004 01.01.2004<br />
NGAAP IFRS just. IFRS<br />
ASSETS<br />
Deferred tax asset 447 -447 0<br />
Goodwill and other intangibles 0 0 0<br />
Total intangible assets 447 -447 0<br />
Total tangible assets 16 964 0 16 964<br />
Total non current assets 17 412 -447 16 964<br />
Inventories 16 325 0 16 325<br />
Accounts receivable 14 273 0 14 273<br />
Forward exchange contracts 0 5 340 5 340<br />
Receivable group company 11 328 0 11 328<br />
Other receivables 3 332 0 3 332<br />
Bank deposits and cash 1 173 0 1 173<br />
Total current assets 46 431 5 340 51 771<br />
Total assets 63 843 4 893 68 736<br />
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES<br />
Equity<br />
Paid in capital 3 700 0 3 700<br />
Other equity 5 337 8 878 14 215<br />
Total equity 9 037 8 878 17 915<br />
Liabilities<br />
Non-current liabilities<br />
Pension obligations 2 430 2 832 5 262<br />
Deferred tax 0 255 255<br />
Other long-term debt 7 323 -1 147 6 176<br />
Total non-current liabilities 9 753 1940 11 693<br />
Current liabilities<br />
Liabilities to financial institutions 0 1 147 1 147<br />
Accounts payable 12 504 0 12 504<br />
Public duties payable 2 344 0 2 344<br />
Current liabilities to group companies 24 963 -7 072 17 891<br />
Other current liabilities 5 242 0 5 242<br />
Total current liabilities 45 053 -5 925 39 128<br />
Total liabilities 54 806 -3 985 50 821<br />
Total equity and liabilities 63 843 4 893 68 736<br />
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7.2.4 Equity, NGAAP versus IFRS<br />
(in NOK 1 000) NGAAP IFRS<br />
Equity at 31.12.03 NGAAP 9 037 9 037<br />
Effects on transition from NGAAP to IFRS on other equity:<br />
Forward exchange contracts 3 845<br />
Increase in pension liability -2 039<br />
Reversed provision for group contribution 31.12.2003 7 072<br />
Equity at 01.01.04 9 037 17 915<br />
Effects on transition from NGAAP to IFRS:<br />
Profit 2004 according to NGAAP/IFRS 18 066 18 055<br />
Provision for group contribution 31.12.2004 -18 084<br />
Approved group contribution 31.12.2003 -7 072<br />
Actuarial gains and losses -104<br />
Share based payment 28<br />
Forward exchange contracts 202<br />
Equity at 31.12.04 9 019 29 024<br />
Profit 2005 according to NGAAP/IFRS 18 540 18 418<br />
Change of accounting principles 1.1.2005 1 921<br />
Provision for group contribution 31.12.2005 -18 264<br />
Received group contribution 31.12.2005 2 500<br />
Share based payment 122<br />
Actuarial gains and losses 169 169<br />
Forward exchange contracts -3 071 -3 071<br />
Approved group contribution 31.12.2004 -18 084<br />
Equity at 31.12.05 10 815 26 579<br />
Profit as of 30.09.06 according to NGAAP/IFRS 2 348 2 726<br />
Forward exchange contracts -965 -965<br />
Share based payment 146 146<br />
Actuarial gains and losses -1 088 -1 088<br />
Exchange rate difference 1 802 1 802<br />
Exchange rate difference Net investment -1 281 -1 281<br />
Approved group contribution 31.12.2005 -18 264<br />
Received group contribution 31.12.2005 2 500<br />
Equity at 30.09.06 11 777 12 155<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
7.2.5 Income statement, NGAAP versus IFRS 2004<br />
(in NOK 1000) 2004<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
2004<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
2004<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
NGAAP IFRS just. IFRS<br />
Operating revenues 106 772 -35 106 737<br />
Operating expenses<br />
Change in Work In Progress -658 0 -658<br />
Cost of materials 31 156 0 31 156<br />
Payroll and social security expenses 34 154 165 34 319<br />
Depreciation 1 857 0 1 857<br />
Other operating expenses 13 388 -35 13 353<br />
Total operating expenses 79 897 130 80 027<br />
Operating profit/loss 26 875 -165 26 710<br />
Financial income/expenses<br />
Interest received 135 0 135<br />
Other financial income 1 212 161 1 373<br />
Other interest paid -1 143 0 -349<br />
Other financial expenses -2064 0 -1 143<br />
Net financial income/expenses -1 860 161 -1 699<br />
Profit before tax 25 015 -4 25 011<br />
Taxes 6949 7 6 956<br />
Profit for the year 18 066 -11 18 055<br />
7.3 Historical financial statements<br />
Below are the IFRS adjusted financial statements of Comrod AS for the accounting years 2004 and<br />
2005 and the audited NGAAP financial statement for the accounting year 2003, as well as for the<br />
interim periods ending 30 September 2006 and 2005. The figures per 30 September 2006 have been<br />
subject to a limited review. The figures per 30 September 2005 has not been subject to a limited<br />
review.<br />
The historical financial statements presented does not include Fidulerc/Lerc except for the balance<br />
sheet at 30 September 2006 and income statement for the 3 rd quarter 2006. Fidulerc SA and its<br />
subsidiary Lerc SA was acquired 29 June 2006. The purchase was subject to approval of French<br />
authorities regarding competitive regulations. Comrod AS received the necessary approval by French<br />
authorities medio September 2006. Consequently, consolidation and purchase price allocation of<br />
Fidulerc/Lerc started medio September 2006.<br />
The historical financial statements for Fidulerc SA and Lerc SA for 2005 translated from French can<br />
be found in appendix 7 and 8 respectively.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
7.3.1 Income statement<br />
The table below shows the income statement of Comrod AS Group for the years 2003 to 2005 and for<br />
the 3rd quarter of 2005 and 2006.<br />
(in NOK 1000)<br />
2006 2005 2005 2004 2003<br />
01.01.-30.09 01.01.-30.09 01.01-31.12 01.01-31.12 01.01-31.12<br />
IFRS IFRS IFRS IFRS NGAAP<br />
Operating revenues 83 676 77 523 109 559 106 737 91 648<br />
Operating expenses<br />
Change in Work In Progress -1 292 -785 1 650 -658 -113<br />
Cost of materials 28 837 22 313 28 918 31 156 38 444<br />
Payroll and social security expenses 31 200 27 374 38 132 34 319 29 345<br />
Depreciation 3 856 1 950 2 522 1 857 1 464<br />
Other operating expenses 12 611 9 493 13 995 13 353 10 715<br />
Total operating expenses 75 212 60 345 85 217 80 027 79 855<br />
Operating profit/loss 8 464 17 178 24 342 26 710 11 793<br />
Financial income/expenses<br />
Interest received 224 2 136 135 36<br />
Other financial income 0 138 2 982 1 373 1 967<br />
Other interest paid -3 578 -861 -1 286 -1 143 -1 776<br />
Other financial expenses -1 035 -489 -460 -2 064 -2 134<br />
Net financial income/expenses -4 389 -1 210 1 372 -1 699 -1 907<br />
Profit before tax 4 075 15 968 25 714 25 011 9 886<br />
Taxes 1 349 4 491 7 296 6 956 2 814<br />
Profit for the year 2 726 11 476 18 418 18 055 7 072<br />
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7.3.2 Balance sheet<br />
The table below shows the balance sheet of Comrod AS Group for the years 2003 to 2005 and the 3 rd<br />
quarter of 2005 and 2006.<br />
(in NOK 1000) 2006<br />
01.01-30.09<br />
2005<br />
01.01-30.09<br />
2005<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
2004<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
2003<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
IFRS IFRS IFRS IFRS NGAAP<br />
ASSETS<br />
Non current assets<br />
Intangible assets<br />
Deferred tax asset 0 0 0 0 448<br />
Goodwill 38 793 0 0 0 0<br />
Other intangible assets 25 658 0 0 0 0<br />
Total intangible assets 64 451 0 0 0 448<br />
Tangible assets<br />
Property, plant and equipment 32 225 12 195 11 977 12 057 11 810<br />
Machinery and equipment 23 008 5 734 7 306 6 484 4 541<br />
Fixtures and fittings 2 350 1 567 1 598 755 613<br />
Other financial assets 103 0 0 0 0<br />
Total tangible assets 57 686 19 496 20 881 19 296 16 964<br />
Total non-current assets 122 137 19 496 20 881 19 296 17 412<br />
Current assets<br />
Inventories 46 536 19 316 16 200 17 447 16 325<br />
Accounts receivable 43 031 24 141 36 200 16 455 14 273<br />
Forward exchange contracts 380 3 505 2 462 5 781 0<br />
Receivable group company 32 521 10 974 13 322 10 314 11 328<br />
Other receivables 2 681 1 852 4 445 2 699 3 332<br />
Bank deposits and cash 1 797 1 101 1 678 1 525 1 173<br />
Total current assets 126 946 60 889 74 307 54 222 46 431<br />
Total assets 249 083 80 385 95 188 73 518 63 843<br />
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(in NOK 1000) 2006<br />
01.01-30.09<br />
2005<br />
01.01-30.09<br />
2005<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
2004<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
2003<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
IFRS IFRS IFRS IFRS NGAAP<br />
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES<br />
Equity<br />
Share capital 1 500 1 500 1 500 1 500 1 500<br />
Other paid-in capital 4 996 2 300 2 350 2 228 2 200<br />
Other reserves 647 2 524 1 091 0 0<br />
Other equity 5 012 15 575 21 638 25 296 5 337<br />
Total equity 12 155 21 899 26 579 29 024 9 037<br />
Liabilities<br />
Non-current liabilities<br />
Pension obligations 9 936 5 942 5 373 5 942 2 430<br />
Deferred tax 679 4 478 6 383 7 249 0<br />
Other long-term debt 156 595 1 820 0 5 084 7 323<br />
Total non-current liabilities 167 210 12 240 11 756 18 274 9 753<br />
Current liabilities<br />
Liabilities to financial institutions 3 879 547 545 1 147 0<br />
Accounts payable 15 965 4 171 6 606 5 619 12 504<br />
Public duties payable 5 782 2 128 3 193 2 887 2 344<br />
Current liabilities to group companies 25 366 35 311 35 475 9 823 24 963<br />
Other current liabilities 18 726 4 089 11 034 6 745 5 242<br />
Total current liabilities 69 718 46 246 56 853 26 220 45 053<br />
Total liabilities 236 928 58 486 68 609 44 495 54 806<br />
Total equity and liabilities 249 083 80 385 95 188 73 518 63 843<br />
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7.3.3 Cash flow statement<br />
The table below shows the cash flow statement of Comrod AS Group for the years 2003 to 2005 and<br />
the 3 rd quarter of 2005 and 2006.<br />
(in NOK 1000) 2006<br />
01.01-30.09<br />
2005<br />
01.01-30.09<br />
2005<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
2004<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
2003<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
IFRS IFRS IFRS IFRS NGAAP<br />
Cash flow from operating activities<br />
Profit before tax 4 075 15 968 25 714 25 011 9 886<br />
Depreciation/amortisation 3 856 1 950 2 522 1 857 1 464<br />
Changes in inventories -4 068 -1 869 1 247 -1 122 -1 391<br />
Changes in trade receivables 15 867 -7 686 -19 745 -2 182 -2 250<br />
Changes in trade payables 2 161 -1 448 987 -6 885 9 312<br />
Changes in pension provisions 1 584 0 -425 399 426<br />
Changes in other accrual accounting<br />
entries -366 -665 4 616 2 681 58<br />
Changes in group receivables -19 199 -660 -4 971 -14 126 -11 328<br />
Net cash flow from operating activities 3 911 5 590 9 945 5 633 6 177<br />
Additions of property, plant & equipment -122 526 -2 150 -4 106 -4 189 -6 100<br />
Payment from sale of shares 0 0 0 0 32<br />
Net cash flow from investing activities -122 526 -2 150 -4 106 -4 189 -6 068<br />
Repayment/raise of long-term liabilities 117 370 -3 264 -5 686 -1 092 1 724<br />
Net change bank overdraft -600 0 0 -2 384<br />
Net cash flow from financing activities 117 370 -3 864 -5 686 -1 092 -660<br />
Net change in cash and cash equivalents -1 245 -424 153 352 -551<br />
Cash from acquisition 1 363 0 0 0 0<br />
Cash and cash equivalents at start of<br />
period 1 678 1 525 1 525 1 173 1 724<br />
Cash and cash equivalents at end of<br />
period 1 797 1 101 1 678 1 525 1 173<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
7.3.4 Statement of changes in equity<br />
The table below shows the changes in equity that occurred for Comrod AS since 2003 and till the<br />
period ended 30 September 2006.<br />
Share<br />
capital<br />
Other paidin<br />
equity<br />
Translation<br />
differences<br />
Hedging Other equity<br />
reserves<br />
Equity 01.01.2004 1 500 2 200 3 845 10 370 17 915<br />
Profit 2004 according to IFRS 116 17 939 18 055<br />
Approved group contribution from<br />
2003 -7 072 -7 072<br />
Forward exchange contracts 201 201<br />
Actuarial gains and losses -103 -103<br />
Share based payment (B&S) 28 28<br />
Equity 31.12.2004 1 500 2 228 0 4 162 21 134 29 024<br />
Profit 2005 according to IFRS 18 418 18 418<br />
Approved group contribution from<br />
2004 -18 084 -18 084<br />
Forward exchange contracts -3 071 -3 071<br />
Actuarial gains and losses 169 169<br />
Share based payment (B&S) 122 122<br />
Equity 31.12.2005 1 500 2 350 0 1 091 21 638 26 579<br />
Profit 01.01. - 30.09. 2006 according to<br />
IFRS 2 726 2726<br />
Approved group contribution from<br />
2005 -18 264 -18 264<br />
Recieved group contribution from<br />
2006 2 500 2 500<br />
Forward exchange contracts -965 -965<br />
Actuarial gains and losses -1 088 -1 088<br />
Share based payment (B&S) 146 146<br />
Exchange rate difference 1 802 1 802<br />
Exchange rate difference Net<br />
investment -1 281 -1 281<br />
Equity 30.09.2006 1 500 4 996 1 802 -1 155 5 012 12 155<br />
Total<br />
7.3.5 Key financial figures<br />
(in TNOK)<br />
For the 9 months period<br />
ended 30 Sept. 2006<br />
For the period 1 Jan. to 31<br />
Dec. 2005<br />
Equity ratio (%) end of period 4,9% 27,9%<br />
Net operating margin before depreciation (EBITDA) 12 320 26 864<br />
Return on equity (annualized) 18,8% 66,2%<br />
Number of employees 165 75<br />
7.4 Pro-forma financial information<br />
The pro forma financial statements information below shows Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong>, Comrod<br />
AS, Fidulerc SA and Lerc SA as if they had been operating as one group for the financial year ended<br />
31 December 2005 and for the nine months ended 30 September 2006. The pro forma financial<br />
information is based on certain assumptions that not necessarily would have been applicable if<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong>, Comrod AS, Fidulerc SA and Lerc SA were one consolidated group<br />
from the beginning of the periods presented (1 January 2005) in the pro forma financial statements.<br />
The pro forma income information for 2005 is prepared based on the audited income statements for<br />
Comrod AS, Fidulerc SA and Lerc SA. As there will be no activity in Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
until the Demerger is effective, no profit and loss from this company is included in the pro forma<br />
financial information as of 2005 and for the nine month period ended 30 September 2006. The pro<br />
forma financial information as of and for the nine month period ended 30 September 2006 is prepared<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
based on the income statement and balance sheet for Comrod AS, Fidulerc SA and Lerc SA which has<br />
been subject to a review by Ernst & Young. The balance sheet for Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> as of<br />
30 September 2006 is the draft opening demerger balance for Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> according<br />
to the demerger plan between <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> and Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> as of 29<br />
September 2006.<br />
The pro forma financial information addresses a hypothetical situation and, therefore, does not<br />
represent what the income statement or balance sheet would actually had been if the transactions had<br />
in fact occurred on those dates, and is not representative of the results of operations for any future<br />
period.<br />
Accounting principles for the IFRS pro forma accounts are prepared applying the same accounting<br />
principles as stated in section 7.1. The pro forma financial information has been prepared based on the<br />
requirements of Annex II of the Prospectus Directive Regulation EU Regulation 809/2004 and<br />
CESR’s Level 3 guidance. The Fidulerc SA and Lerc SA figures shown in the following proforma<br />
tables 7.4.2 – 7.4.4 are adjusted to IFRS. The most important effects between FGAAP (French<br />
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) and IFRS is detailed in Appendix 9.<br />
Ernst & Young has performed a review of the pro forma adjustments in the IFRS pro forma accounts<br />
for the year 2005 and for the nine month period ended 30 September 2006. The review report in<br />
respect of the pro forma adjustments is prepared in accordance with International Standard on<br />
Assurance Engagements 3000. Please refer to a separate statement in Appendix 5.<br />
The pro forma adjustments, as described in more detail below, are based on available information and<br />
certain assumptions. The Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> group pro forma financial information has<br />
been prepared for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to represent what Comrod<br />
Communication <strong>ASA</strong> group financial position or results of operations would actually have been if the<br />
demerger had occurred on an earlier date and Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> had operated as a<br />
separate group. Due to its nature, there is uncertainty related to the pro forma financial statements. The<br />
pro forma financial information should be read in conjunction with the Comrod AS annual report for<br />
2005, included in Appendix 2 and the interim report for the period ending 30 September 2006,<br />
included in Appendix 3.<br />
Reference is made to Appendix 3, note 4, “Business Combinations”, were the acquisition of the Power<br />
operations is described. It is not possible to give reliable information of revenue and profit and loss for<br />
the Power operations for the years 2005 and 2006. This is due to the fact that Comrod AS purchased<br />
only a division of Eltek Energy <strong>ASA</strong> which did not have separate reliable financial information for<br />
this division’s separate revenues, costs and profit and loss. Hence, no pro forma adjustments have been<br />
prepared related to this division in the pro forma financial information for the years 2005 and 2006<br />
below.<br />
7.4.1 Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation Fidulerc SA<br />
The Company has performed a purchase price allocation of the assets acquired from Fidulerc SA . The<br />
valuation is performed in accordance with IFRS 3 which requires that intangible assets have to be<br />
recognised as assets apart from goodwill, and based on the principles described in the summary of<br />
significant accounting principles. The purpose of the purchase price allocation is to allocate the excess<br />
purchase price (purchase price above net fair value of assets acquired).<br />
Reference is made to appendix 3 which is the 3 rd quarter 2006 reporting for the Comrod AS group<br />
prepared in accordance with IAS 34, note 4, where the purchase price allocation is presented. Below is<br />
a short description of the purchase price allocation.<br />
The excess purchase price is calculated to TNOK 47,941 based on a purchase price of TNOK 93,633<br />
and net assets of TNOK 45,692. Below is a summary of the fair value of the acquired assets:<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
TNOK<br />
Net assets 45 692<br />
Fixed asset 10 800<br />
Goodwill 29 230<br />
Customer relationship 11 507<br />
Deferred tax -3 596<br />
Purchase price 93 633<br />
The figures above are not finalized and may be changed in subsequent periods.<br />
7.4.2 Pro forma income information for the period ended 31 December 2005<br />
The following table shows the pro forma figures and related adjustments that have been made to the<br />
income information data for the year ended 31 December 2005. The pro forma income information is<br />
prepared as if the acquisition was effected 1 January 2005.<br />
(in NOK 1000)<br />
2005 2005 2005 2005 2005<br />
01.01.-31.12. 01.01.-31.12. 01.01.-31.12. 01.01.-31.12. 01.01.-31.12<br />
Comrod<br />
Communication<br />
<strong>ASA</strong><br />
IFRS<br />
Comrod AS<br />
IFRS<br />
Lerc/Fidulerc<br />
Proforma<br />
adjustments<br />
Note 1-3<br />
IFRS<br />
Proforma<br />
Operating revenues 0 109 559 101 680 211 239<br />
Operating expenses<br />
0 0 0<br />
Cost of materials 30 568 36 858 67 426<br />
Payroll and social security expenses 38 132 14 794 52 926<br />
Depreciation 2 522 2 753 3 459 8 734<br />
Other operating expenses 13 995 36 079 50 074<br />
Total operating expenses 0 85 217 90 484 3 459 179 160<br />
Operating profit/loss 0 24 342 11 195 - 3 459 32 079<br />
Financial income/expenses<br />
Interest received 136 302 438<br />
Other financial income 2 982 529 3 511<br />
Interest paid to <strong>Hexagon</strong>-group -1 051 -1 051<br />
Other interest paid -235 -1 110 -5 793 -7 138<br />
Other financial expenses -460 -616 -1 076<br />
Net financial income/expenses 0 1 372 -895 -5 793 -5 316<br />
Profit before tax 0 25 714 10 300 -9 251 26 763<br />
Taxes 0 7 296 3 700 -2 014 8 983<br />
Profit for the year 0 18 418 6 600 -7 238 17 780<br />
Pro forma adjustment comments:<br />
1. “Depreciation”: TNOK 3,459 is 1 year estimated depreciation of surplus values allocated to<br />
customer relationship, property plant and equipment and machinery and equipment, according to<br />
purchase price allocation.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
2. “Other interest paid”: The purchase of Fidulerc SA on 11.4 MEUR was 100 % financed by an<br />
inter company loan from <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>. Interest is 6,32% according to long term<br />
bond loan in <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> related to the acquisition.<br />
3. “Taxes”: All the adjustments have a calculated 28% tax expense for adjustments subject to<br />
Norwegian tax rules and 33,3% for adjustments subject to French tax rules.<br />
All of the adjustments listed above will also apply for and impact the financial statements going<br />
forward. See Appendix 9 for information about the IFRS adjustments for Lerc and Fidulerc.<br />
7.4.3 Pro forma income statement for the period ended 30 September 2006<br />
The following table shows the pro forma figures and related adjustments that have been made to the<br />
income information data for the period ended 30 September 2006. The pro forma income information<br />
is prepared as if the acquisition was effected 1 January 2006.<br />
(in NOK 1000)<br />
2006 2006 2006 2006 2006<br />
01.01.-30.09. 01.01.-30.09. 01.01.-30.09. 01.01.-30.09. 01.01.-30.09.<br />
Comrod<br />
Communication<br />
<strong>ASA</strong> Comrod AS Lerc/Fidulerc<br />
Proforma<br />
adjustments<br />
Note 4-6<br />
IFRS<br />
Proforma<br />
Operating revenues 0 73 283 64 529 0 137 812<br />
Operating expenses<br />
0 0 0<br />
Cost of materials 22 525 24 065 0 46 590<br />
Payroll and social security expenses 29 674 10 336 0 40 010<br />
Depreciation 3 285 2 125 2 581 7 991<br />
Other operating expenses 9 660 24 682 0 34 342<br />
Total operating expenses 0 65 144 61 208 2 581 128 933<br />
Operating profit/loss 0 8 139 3 321 -2 581 8 878<br />
Financial income/expenses<br />
Interest received 223 88 0 311<br />
Other financial income 0 103 0 103<br />
Interest paid to <strong>Hexagon</strong>-group -3 551 0 0 -3 551<br />
Other interest paid 0 -629 -3 825 -4 454<br />
Other financial expenses -1 015 -340 -1 355<br />
Net financial income/expenses 0 -4 343 -779 -3 825 -8 946<br />
Profit before tax 0 3 796 2 542 -6 406 -68<br />
Taxes 0 1 063 791 -1 363 491<br />
Profit for the year 0 2 733 1 751 -5 043 -558<br />
Pro forma adjustment comments:<br />
4. “Depreciation”: TNOK 2,581 is 9 month estimated depreciation of surplus values allocated to<br />
customer relationship, property plant and equipment and machinery and equipment, according to<br />
purchase price allocation.<br />
5. “Other interest paid”: The purchase of Fidulerc SA on 11.4 MEUR was 100 % financed by an<br />
inter company loan from <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>. Interest is 6.32% according to long term<br />
bond loan in <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> related to the acquisition.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
6. “Taxes”: All the adjustments have a calculated 28% tax expense for adjustments subject to<br />
Norwegian tax rules and 33.3% for adjustments subject to French tax rules.<br />
All of the adjustments listed above will also apply for and impact the financial statements going<br />
forward.<br />
See Appendix 9 for information about the IFRS adjustments for Lerc and Fidulerc.<br />
7.4.4 Pro forma balance sheet as of 30 September 2006<br />
(in NOK 1000)<br />
2006 2006 2006 2006 2006 2006 2006<br />
30.sep 30.sep 30.sep 30.sep 30.sep 30.sep 30.sep<br />
Comrod<br />
Communication<br />
<strong>ASA</strong><br />
Proforma<br />
adjustment<br />
Demerger,<br />
effective<br />
2007<br />
Note 17<br />
Comrod<br />
AS<br />
Fidulerc /<br />
Lerc<br />
Eliminations<br />
Note 7 - 12<br />
Proforma<br />
adjustments<br />
Note 13 -16<br />
IFRS<br />
Proforma<br />
ASSETS<br />
Non current assets<br />
Intangible assets<br />
Deferred tax asset 455 2 000 -2 456 0 0<br />
Goodwill 9 000 0 29 793 0 38 793<br />
Other intangible assets 14 125 11 533 0 25 658<br />
Total intangible assets 0 0 23 580 2 000 38 870 0 64 451<br />
Tangible fixed assets<br />
Property, plant and equipment 11 432 17 004 3 790 0 32 225<br />
Machinery and equipment 8 346 7 444 7 218 0 23 008<br />
Fixtures and fittings 2 350 0 0 2 350<br />
Other financial assets 103 103<br />
Total tangible fixed assets 0 0 22 127 24 551 11 008 0 57 686<br />
Financial fixed assets<br />
Investments in subsidiaries 0 27 669 93 633 0 -121 302 0<br />
Total financial fixed assets 0 27 669 93 633 0 -121 302 0 0<br />
Total non-current assets 0 27 669 139 340 26 552 -71 424 0 122 137<br />
Current assets<br />
Inventories 16 209 30 328 0 46 536<br />
Accounts receivable 19 707 23 324 0 43 031<br />
Forward exchange contracts 380 0 0 380<br />
Receivable <strong>Hexagon</strong> -group 12840 32 522 0 -45 361 0<br />
Other receivables 2 017 664 0 0 2 681<br />
Bank deposits and cash 1 000 1 122 676 20 987 23 784<br />
Total current assets 1 000 12 840 71 957 54 991 0 -24 374 116 413<br />
Total assets 1 000 40 509 211 297 81 543 -71 424 -24 374 238 550<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
(in NOK 1000) 2006 2006 2006 2006 2006 2006 2006<br />
30.sep 30.sep 30.sep 30.sep 30.sep 30.sep 30.sep<br />
Proforma<br />
adjustment<br />
Eliminations<br />
Comrod<br />
Proforma<br />
Demerger, Comrod Fidulerc/<br />
IFRS<br />
Communication<br />
<strong>ASA</strong><br />
Note –13 - 16<br />
adjustments<br />
effective AS Lerc<br />
Proforma<br />
2007<br />
Note 7 - 12<br />
Note 17<br />
EQUITY AND<br />
LIABILITIES<br />
Equity<br />
Share capital 1 000 12 704 1 500 3 069 -4 569 3 235 16 939<br />
Other paid-in capital 27 805 4 996 -4 996 52 432 80 237<br />
Other reserves 678 0 678<br />
Other equity 4 467 43 655 -64 317 -16 195<br />
Total equity 1 000 40 509 11 641 46 725 -73 882 55 667 81 659<br />
Liabilities<br />
Non-current liabilities<br />
Pension obligations 0 6 884 3 052 0 9 936<br />
Deferred tax 0 679 679<br />
Other long-term debt 0 153 841 978 1 779 -54 675 101 922<br />
Total non-current liabilities 0 0 160 725 4 030 2 458 -54 675 112 537<br />
Current liabilities<br />
Liabilities to financial<br />
institutions 0 3 879 3 879<br />
Accounts payable 0 5 437 10 528 0 15 965<br />
Public duties payable 0 2 205 3 577 0 5 782<br />
Current liabilities to<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong>-group 0 25 366 0 -25 366 0<br />
Other current liabilities 0 5 924 12 803 0 18 727<br />
Total current liabilities 0 0 38 932 30 788 0 -25 366 44 354<br />
Total liabilities 0 0 199 656 34 818 2 458 -80 041 156 891<br />
Total equity and liabilities 1 000 40 509 211 297 81 543 -71 424 -24 374 238 550<br />
Pro forma adjustment comments:<br />
7. “Goodwill”: TNOK 29,793 preliminary estimate of goodwill in connection with the acquisition of<br />
Fidulerc SA/Lerc SA and adjustment regarding acquisition Power.<br />
8. “Other intangible assets”: TNOK 11,533 preliminary estimate of other intangible assets in<br />
connection with the acquisition of Fidulerc SA/Lerc SA.<br />
9. “Tangible fixed assets”: TNOK 11,008 (3,790 + 7,218) is the difference between fair value and<br />
book value in connection with the acquisition of Fidulerc SA/Lerc SA.<br />
10. “Investments in subsidiaries”: TNOK 121,302 is the book value of the shares in Comrod AS and<br />
Fidulerc SA.<br />
11. “Other long term debt”: TNOK 1,779 is change in currency related to long term debt designated<br />
for hedging in net investment foreign subsidiary.<br />
12. “Taxes”: TNOK - 3,135 (- 2,456 – 679) is related to the above mentioned eliminations. 2,456 are<br />
reclassified from Deferred tax assets to Deferred tax. Net Deferred tax 30.9.2006 is 679.<br />
13. “Other long term debt”: TNOK – 54,675 (-55,667 + 100,000 – 99,008). -55,667 is assumed<br />
increase in share capital and other paid in capital related to debt con<strong>version</strong> to bring <strong>Hexagon</strong><br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
<strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> to 25% ownership. TNOK 100,000 is assumed external long term debt from<br />
financial institution. TNOK – 99,008 is reduction in long term debt to <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong><br />
related to set off and repayment (See comment 14, 15 and 16).<br />
14. “Receivables <strong>Hexagon</strong> Group”: TNOK – 45,361 is set off between receivables <strong>Hexagon</strong> Group<br />
and debt <strong>Hexagon</strong> Group.<br />
15. “Current liabilities <strong>Hexagon</strong> Group”: TNOK – 25,366 is assumed repayment of debt to <strong>Hexagon</strong><br />
Group.<br />
16. “Bank deposits and cash”: TNOK 20,987 is the remaining cash from new long term debt from<br />
financial institution after repayment and set of to <strong>Hexagon</strong> Group.<br />
17. Proforma adjustment according to the Demerger. See section 4.2.<br />
All of the adjustments listed above (excluding 13 – 17) will also apply for and impact the financial<br />
statements going forward. Assuming that the Demerger and the stock exchange listing are completed<br />
adjustment 13 – 17 will also affect the financial statements going forward.<br />
7.4.5 Auditor statement<br />
An auditor statement regarding the pro forma adjustments has been received from the Company’s<br />
auditor, Ernst & Young AS, and can be found in Appendix 5.<br />
7.5 Annual report for Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> was incorporated 19 September 2006. There has been no activity in the<br />
Company since the incorporation and till the Effective Date of the Demerger, there will be no such<br />
activity. See chapter 4 for more information about the Demerger.<br />
See Appendix 6 for the complete annual report for 2006 for Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong>.<br />
7.6 Capital resources<br />
7.6.1 Capitalization and indebtedness<br />
As of 30 September 2006 Comrod AS was participating in a corporate cash and overdraft system.<br />
Therefore the cash in the balance sheet before the Demerger mainly consists of tied-up capital, and<br />
cash contributions to the corporate cash system are categorized as receivables from the <strong>Hexagon</strong><br />
group. Long-term loans are also internal loans to <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong>.<br />
On this background the best overview of the capitalization of the Company is a combination of the<br />
pro-forma balance sheet and committed new bank loans.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
The following table shows the Company’s projected capitalization as of the date of the Demerger.<br />
in NOK mill. 22 Jan. 2007<br />
Share capital 16.9<br />
Legal reserve -<br />
Other reserves 64.8<br />
Total shareholders’ equity (A) 81.7<br />
Current debt:<br />
Guaranteed -<br />
Secured 10<br />
Total current debt: 10<br />
Non-current debt:<br />
Guaranteed -<br />
Secured 90<br />
Total non-current debt 90<br />
Total indebtedness (B) 100<br />
Total capitalization (A+B) 181.7<br />
The table below shows a statement of the Company’s net indebtedness in the short term and the<br />
medium-long term as of the date of the Demerger.<br />
in NOK mill. 22 Jan. 2007<br />
A. Cash 22<br />
B. Cash equivalents 20<br />
C. Trading securities -<br />
D. Liquidity (A+B+C) 42<br />
E. Current financial receivable -<br />
F. Current bank debt<br />
G. Current portion of non current debt 10<br />
H. Other current financial debt<br />
I. Current financial indebtedness (F + G + H) 10<br />
J. Net Current Financial Indebtness (I-E-D) -32<br />
K. Non-current bank loans 90<br />
L. Bonds issued -<br />
M. Other non-current loans -<br />
N. Non-current financial indebtedness (K+L+M) 90<br />
O. Net financial indebtedness (J+N) 58<br />
7.6.2 Description of cash flow<br />
Comrod AS has over the recent years had a positive net cash flow after organic investments. The<br />
acquisitions in 2006 have been financed through internal loans from <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong>.<br />
Historically, postponement of scheduled projects has been the largest challenge for the liquidity in<br />
Comrod AS. The large movement in trade payables shown in the cash flow analysis (see section 7.3.3)<br />
in 2005 and reversal of this movement in 2006 is an example of this type of fluctuations. Lerc has had<br />
an independent financing situation with a factoring agreement that has provided the company with a<br />
sufficient cash flow buffer. Under this factoring agreement, Lerc can borrow on a short-term basis<br />
with its trade receivables as collateral. Cash flow forecasts show positive development in the cash<br />
balance for Comrod Communication for the year ahead. Historically, Comrod AS has had cash flow<br />
from operations ranging from MNOK 5.6 to MNOK 9.9 over the past three accounting years. In the<br />
same period organic investments have been on a lower level all years, ranging from MNOK 4.1 to<br />
MNOK 6.1. This shows a stable and robust development of a company self supplied with cash. The<br />
acquisitions of new entities in 2006 add new business units with established customer relationships<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
and for Lerc a stable cash flow. The cash flow from the acquired Power operations is more volatile as<br />
it depends on few projects and customers, however it constitutes only about 10% of the total activity,<br />
and as activity and customer base increases the volatility is likely to be reduced.<br />
7.6.3 Debt structure<br />
Following the Demerger, the Company has obtained a long-term loan through DnB Nor Bank to<br />
refinance inter company loans to <strong>Hexagon</strong>, mainly related to the acquisition of Lerc SA, and to secure<br />
a sound working capital and financing of the Company’s operations.<br />
Long-term debt<br />
A secured long-term loan (5 years) of NOK 100 million or the equivalent in Euro is committed from<br />
DnB NOR. As a reserve NOK 10 mill will be available to the Company in the offer, but is not<br />
included in the cash flow projections above. Of the NOK 100 million a total of 10 million in<br />
installments are due for payment within the first year. Consequently these NOK 10 mill. are defined as<br />
a short-term part of long-term debt under IFRS.<br />
The total loan will be split in two and granted 50/50 between Comrod AS and Comrod<br />
Communication <strong>ASA</strong>.<br />
Short-term debt<br />
The Company will have free cash and cash equivalents of MNOK 22. This figure is dependent on cash<br />
movements from mid December to the time of listing. In this period the cash balance is expected to<br />
remain stable or increase. In addition, an overdraft facility of MNOK 20 from DnB NOR is committed<br />
to Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong>. This credit is secured in the same manner and with the same<br />
financial covenants as the long-term loan.<br />
7.6.4 Restrictions on use of capital resources<br />
Financial covenants on the sum of long-term and short-term debt to DnB NOR are as follows:<br />
1. The equity ratio, defined as book value of equity as a ratio of total assets shall be the minimum of:<br />
From To Equity ratio<br />
March 2007 June 2007 25%<br />
Sept. 2007 Dec. 2007 27.5%<br />
March 2008 30%<br />
Quarterly reporting and measurement.<br />
2. Net Interest Bearing Debt/Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Amortisations and Depreciation<br />
(NIBD/EBITDA) shall not be larger than specified in the table below:<br />
From To NIBD/EBITDA<br />
March 2007 Dec. 2007 3,5<br />
March 2008 Dec. 2008 3,25<br />
March 2009 3,0<br />
Quarterly reporting and measurement will be made against the average EBITDA for the last four<br />
quarters.<br />
3. Should the Company sell assets amounting to more than 5% of the Company’s total balance, the<br />
proceeds shall in full be used for payment of the long-term loan.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
7.6.5 Working capital statement<br />
It is the opinion of the Company that the working capital is sufficient for the issuer’s present<br />
requirements.<br />
7.7 Discussion of financial condition and results of operations<br />
In the following is a description of the financial condition of Comrod AS for the years 2003 to 2005,<br />
and for the 3 rd quarter of 2005 and 2006.<br />
Comrod AS has experienced a significant growth in activity and revenues over the last years.<br />
Revenues for 2003 was 91,648 and the increase from 2002 was 86% from 49,182. The reason was<br />
several large new contracts in the defence market, in particular the Bowman contract signed in 2002<br />
and with start-up in 2003. The contract period run from 2003 to 2006. Also, the deliveries of the Visby<br />
system started in 2003. The growth continued into 2004 and 2005 with revenues of 106,737 and<br />
109,559 respectively. Additional contracts won in the defence market included the Switzerland<br />
contract with deliveries in 2004 and 2005, and the Kuwait contract with deliveries in 2005. In<br />
addition, Comrod AS signed an OEM agreement with Harris Corporation in 2005.<br />
The cost of materials in the above mentioned periods were:<br />
In 2003 the amount was 38,444, equal to 42 % of the total revenues.<br />
In 2004 the amount was 31,156, equal to 29.1 % of the total revenues.<br />
In 2005 the amount was 28,918 equal to 26.4 % of the total revenues.<br />
The portion of material cost in 2003 was relatively high due to the Visby development project. This<br />
project was run with an agreement of co-operation with an external partner.<br />
Depreciation costs increased from 1,464 in 2003 to 1,857 in 2004 and to 2,522 in 2005. Comrod AS<br />
has over the past years put high priority to efficiency improvements and as a result made several<br />
important investments in the production area.<br />
Some investments made during these years were:<br />
- Packing machine<br />
- Cellofan removal<br />
- Winder<br />
- Grinder<br />
- Core pull machine<br />
- Robot<br />
- Building improvements<br />
In addition to investments in the production area, Comrod AS implemented a new ERP system<br />
(Axapta) in 2006. This has given the company some challenges in the production planning/detail<br />
planning during the year and has had a negative impact on the company’s variable salary costs.<br />
The operating profit for the years 2003 – 2005 were:<br />
2003: NOK 11,793 with a margin of 13% of total revenues<br />
2004: NOK 26,710 with a margin of 25% of total revenues<br />
2005: NOK 24,342 with a margin of 22% of total revenues<br />
The margin for 2003 was lower than in 2004 and 2005, mainly due to higher material costs related to<br />
the Visby project. Comrod AS achieved good margins on the defence contracts with deliveries in both<br />
2004 and 2005.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Due to a high financial income from currency gains the profit before tax in 2005 exceeded the profit<br />
before tax for 2004 despite a lower operating profit. This is mostly related to a currency hedge contract<br />
in GBP related to the Bowman deliveries.<br />
The turnover for 2006 is expected to be in line with 2004 and 2005, but included the Power operations.<br />
The drop in revenue for the communication products in 2006 was mainly due to postponements in<br />
Saudi Arabia (the SANG project) and the spare part deliveries to the Bowman contract. These delays<br />
combined with delays in deliveries to Kuwait and Switzerland has made a negative impact of the<br />
operation result for 2006. The Kuwait delivery has very high gross margins (because of delivery<br />
directly to end-user) as has the spare part programme for Bowman.<br />
The cost of materials as per Q3 2006 was NOK 28,837 (34.4 % of revenues), compared to Q3 2005<br />
with NOK 22,313 (28.8 % of revenues). The increase is due to Power sales with a higher material cost,<br />
and the product mix in general. Since manufacturing of the Power products has been outsourced, the<br />
Company has a higher material cost related to these products.<br />
Payroll and social security expenses, depreciation and other operating expenses were higher in Q3<br />
2006 than Q3 2005 due to the acquisition of the Power operations in March 2006.<br />
Net financial income/expense in Q3 2006 was -4,389 compared to –1,210 in Q3 2005. The main<br />
explanation were the acquisitions made of the Power operations and Lerc in 2006, which increased the<br />
Company’s interest-bearing debt to <strong>Hexagon</strong>.<br />
The ongoing and future trends are not expected to cause any significant changes on any level.<br />
However, with Comrod AS’ strategy of always supporting the company’s customers with superior<br />
quality with deliveries and product management quality must be top of mind in the Company’s<br />
development combined with market needs and an effective production.<br />
Despite the very positive net income for Comrod AS in the last years, the equity ratio has not<br />
increased. This is due to group contribution dispositions to <strong>Hexagon</strong>.<br />
7.8 Investments<br />
As per the date of this Prospectus, Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong>, has not made any investments, has<br />
no investments in progress nor has the Company decided on any future investments. Investments<br />
presented in this section relates to the investments in Comrod AS. Planned investments in Lerc SA are<br />
included in section 7.8.4, “Future investments”. Except for acquisitions, investments will primarily be<br />
related to extension or improvements in production (premises, machinery, etc.) and on developing<br />
products.<br />
7.8.1 Historical investments<br />
The table below shows the Comrod AS’ principal investments during the periods for which financial<br />
statements are provided in the Prospectus.<br />
In 2006 the Company has made two major acquisitions, the acquisition of the Power operations and<br />
the acquisition of Fidulerc SA.<br />
On 28 February 2006 the Company acquired what is now the the Company’s Power operations from<br />
Eltek Energy AS. The purchase consideration for the Power operations was MNOK 25, and the<br />
acquisition was financed through an inter company loan.<br />
On 15 September 2006 the acquisition of the French company Fidulerc SA with its subsidiary Lerc SA<br />
was finalized. The purchase price for Fidulerc SA was MNOK 93.6 (EUR 11.4 million), and the<br />
acquisition was settled by an inter company loan from <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>. The interest is<br />
6.23% according to a long-term bond loan in <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> related to the acquisition. See<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
section 7.4 for more details on the acquisition of Fidulerc SA including pro-forma financial statements<br />
for the combined Company. In connection with the Demerger from <strong>Hexagon</strong>, Comrod will enter into a<br />
new long-term loan agreement with DnB Nor Bank <strong>ASA</strong>, which will replace the above mentioned<br />
inter company loan. See section 7.6.4 for more details.<br />
INVESTMENTS IN MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT (IN NOK 1000)<br />
Time Investment Amount<br />
2003 Property, machinery, inventory, etc. 6 100<br />
2004 Packing machine 350<br />
Cellofan removal 900<br />
Winder 278<br />
Element laithe 142<br />
Building 1 500<br />
Grinder 1 019<br />
Sum 2004 4 189<br />
2005 Core pull machine 280<br />
Grinder 300<br />
Resin mixing machine 520<br />
Robot 1 000<br />
Light storage building 600<br />
Building 900<br />
Sum 2005 4 100<br />
2006 Resin mixing systems 350<br />
Robot 800<br />
Braiding machine 1 200<br />
Back-up systems 400<br />
Grinder 150<br />
Building 760<br />
Sum 2006 3 660<br />
Total investments 11 949<br />
7.8.2 Investments made after the most recent quarterly report<br />
Total investments after the publication of Comrod AS’ 3 rd quarter report for 2006, amounts to TNOK<br />
844. This is mainly related to the braiding machine.<br />
7.8.3 Investments in progress<br />
In Norway Comrod has the following investments in progress to optimize and make the production<br />
flow more efficient:<br />
- Upgrade of the braiding machine which was 100% manually operated and now will be 100%<br />
automated. Investment: approx. MNOK 1.2.<br />
- One 100% manual and very time-consuming measuring and labeling operation to be 100%<br />
automated in the robot cell. Investment: approx. MNOK 2.<br />
The investments listed above will be financed in cash on delivery.<br />
7.8.4 Future investments<br />
In Norway the Company plan to spend about 7 million NOK in future investments to optimize the<br />
production and products and to achieve a more cost effective production. These investments will help<br />
the Company to be in position to satisfy the market with regard to quality, price and delivery time. Of<br />
planned future investments related to the Company’s Norwegian operations, the following can be<br />
mentioned:<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
- Robot cell. See also section 7.8.3. This is an ongoing project, which will last for several years with<br />
different milestones. More machines will be connected in time. This project will start in the 1 st<br />
quarter of 2007 and the robot cell is expected to be finalized during the 3 rd quarter of 2007. An<br />
additional investment of MNOK 2 is expected related to this project.<br />
- A new 100% automated winding machine (reduce the exposure of epoxy to the operator and give<br />
higher production capacity). This project has started and is expected to be finalized during the 3 rd<br />
quarter of 2007. Investment: approx. MNOK 1.7.<br />
- Planned investments in machinery also include a braiding machine (investment amount: MNOK<br />
0.75) and ComPact (investment amount: MNOK 1.1) in addition to several minor project totalling<br />
approximately MNOK 1.5 in investments.<br />
In the period 2007 – 2008, the Company plans to complete the following investments in France:<br />
- Industrialization of the Schlumberger collars (related to industrial products). Amount: approx.<br />
EUR 300,000.<br />
- Industrialization of the Siemens loop (related to insulating products). Amount: approx. EUR.<br />
50,000.<br />
- Industrialization of the steady arms (related to insulating products). Amount: approx.: EUR<br />
100,000.<br />
- Industrialization of the MLV/LOS masts. Amount: approx. EUR 240,000.<br />
- Industrialization of the MT masts. Amount: approx. EUR 200,000.<br />
- Industrialization of the Manpack – Handheld antennas. Amount: approx. EUR 300,000.<br />
- Company heating reform. Amount: approx. EUR 230,000.<br />
- Replacement of an air conditioner. Amount: approx. EUR 50,000.<br />
- Demolition of the old buildings and control of the company access. Amount: EUR 300,000.<br />
- Control of the access to work units. Amount: approx EUR 70,000.<br />
The above investments will be settled in cash on delivery.<br />
7.9 Financial instruments<br />
To be able to lower the risk of currency exposure on turnover, Comrod has a policy to hedge currency<br />
on fixed contracts. As per 30 September 2006 Comrod had a currency hedge in GBP for the Bowman<br />
contract. The date of currency hedge was October 2002 and the expiration date for the last contract is<br />
June 2007.<br />
7.10 Subsequent events<br />
Other than the issues described in this Prospectus, there have been no material events related to the<br />
Company since the publication of the 3 rd quarter report for 2006.<br />
7.11 Changes in financial structure subsequent to Q3 2006<br />
Besides the Demerger and the new bank loan described in this Prospectus, no major changes in the<br />
financial structure of the Company has taken place since the end of the 3 rd quarter of 2006.<br />
7.12 Changes in the Company’s financial or trading position<br />
There have been no significant changes in the Company’s financial or trading position subsequent to<br />
Q3 2006.<br />
7.13 Trend information<br />
The Company has not experienced any changes or trends outside the ordinary course of business that<br />
are significant to the Company after the publication of its third quarter report and to the date of this<br />
Prospectus, other than those described elsewhere in this Prospectus. Please see chapter 6,<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
“Presentation of the Company”, chapter 7, “Market overview” and chapter 2, “Risk factors” for more<br />
information about significant recent trends in the Company’s business and relevant markets.<br />
For any governmental, economic, fiscal, monetary or political policies or factors that could materially<br />
affect the Company’s future operations please refer to chapter 2, “Risk factors”. Historically, no such<br />
events have had any adverse impact on the Company’s operations.<br />
7.14 Statutory Auditor<br />
Ernst & Young AS (Ernst & Young) has been the independent auditor for Comrod Communication<br />
<strong>ASA</strong> since its incorporation on 19 September 2006. The auditor’s address is Vassbotnen 11, P.O. Box<br />
815, 4068 Stavanger, Norway. Ernst & Young is a member of the Norwegian Institute of Public<br />
Accountants (DnR).<br />
Ernst & Young has also been the independent auditor of Comrod AS since 1999.<br />
The auditor statements for the last three accounting years have contained no qualifications or<br />
disclaimers.<br />
Ernst & Young has issued an unqualified auditor’s report (“Report on review of interim condensed<br />
financial statements”) for Comrod AS’ 3rd quarter report for 2006, as set forth in their report in<br />
Appendix 4.<br />
The pro forma adjustments for the income statement for the year ended 31 December 2005 and for the<br />
income statement for the nine month period ended 30 September 2006 and the balance sheet for the<br />
period ended 30 September 2006, included in section 7.4 of this prospectus (“Independent Assurance<br />
Report on Pro Forma Financial Information”), have been examined by Ernst & Young (appendix 5).<br />
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8 BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND MANAGEMENT<br />
8.1 Board of Directors<br />
As of the date of this Prospectus, the following persons serve on the Board of Directors of Comrod:<br />
Name<br />
Board Current position & Business Address:<br />
Position<br />
Erik Espeset Chairman Group Managing Director of <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>,<br />
Korsegata 8, P.O. Box 836 Sentrum, 6001 Ålesund, Norway<br />
Randi Elin Hognestad Vice chairman Director of investor relations, HitecVision Private Equity AS,<br />
Klubbgata 1, P.O. Box 8120, 4068 Stavanger, Norway<br />
Niklas Hermansson Board member CEO of Technor <strong>ASA</strong> (from 1 February 2007)<br />
Merete Alnes Mostue Board member HR Manager Coop Møre BA, P.O. Box 10, 6025 Ålesund,<br />
Norway<br />
8.2 Management<br />
As of the date of this Prospectus, the Company’s senior management consists of the following<br />
individuals:<br />
Name Position Business Address:<br />
Ole Gunnar Fjelde Acting CEO from 1 January 2007 & Fiskåvegen 1, 4120 Tau<br />
Operations Manager<br />
Kari Duestad Finance Manager Fiskåvegen 1, 4120 Tau<br />
Jean Morrey General Manager, Lerc SA 600 chemin des Hamaïdes, BP<br />
10119, Saint Amand les Eaux Cedex,<br />
France<br />
Arne Risvik Syversen VP Sales & Marketing, Power division Leangbukta, 1392 Vettre<br />
8.2.1 The CEO<br />
The CEO as of the date of the Prospectus Mr. Ole Gunnar Fjelde is the Company’s acting CEO. The<br />
former CEO resigned on 31 December 2006. The Board has started the search for a new CEO, and<br />
expects to complete this some time during the 1 st quarter of 2007. Until a new CEO is in place, the<br />
chairman will take a more active role in the day-to-day operations of the Company.<br />
8.3 Background of the Management and Board of Directors<br />
Board of Directors<br />
Erik Espeset, chairman of the board<br />
Mr. Espeset is Group Managing Director of <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>. He has an M.Sc. from the<br />
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and an MBA from Helsinki School of<br />
Economics. He has professional experience in project management, sales and marketing from<br />
Kvaerner, Alcatel and Enron. He joined <strong>Hexagon</strong> in 2001.<br />
Randi Elin Hognestad, board member<br />
Ms. Hognestad joined HitecVision AS as Director of Investor Relations in January 2007. Her<br />
background combines law and communication. She is a qualified lawyer, and has been an associate<br />
with the law firms Bugge, Arentz-Hansen & Rasmussen (BA-HR) and Schjødt. Hognestad previously<br />
held the position as Director of Investor Relations with Global IP Sound in San Francisco, and has<br />
worked as a journalist with Dagens Næringsliv. Her work experience also includes several years as an<br />
executive assistant with McKinsey & Company.<br />
Niklas Hermansson, board member<br />
Mr. Hermansson will join Technor AS as CEO in February 2007. He was CEO of Comrod AS from<br />
2002 till December 2006. Before joining Comrod AS he was Managing Director for the Proserv Group<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
(1999 – 2001), Sales & Marketing Director for the oil and gas division of AS Stavanger Rørhandel<br />
(1997 – 1999) and Sales Manager for the trading department of Proserv AS (1995 – 1997). Mr.<br />
Hermansson is a former professional handball player and has played nearly 50 international games for<br />
Sweden.<br />
Merete Alnes Mostue, board member<br />
Merete A. Mostue is personnel and organisation manager in Coop Møre BA. Prior to joining Coop in<br />
2004 she was finance and HR Manager at Firmenich Bjørge Biomarin AS in Ålesund. She was<br />
Assisting Director for Investor Relations at Telenor <strong>ASA</strong> in Oslo from 1999 to 2001 and financial<br />
consultant and finance manager for Norsk Telekom/Telenor AS in the period 1993 to 1997. Ms.<br />
Mostue has international experience as financial controller for Telenor (UK) Ltd. in London and Dai-<br />
Ichi Kangyo Bank S.A. in Luxembourg. Ms. Mostue has an M.Sc. in business administration from the<br />
Norwegian School of Economics and Business Administration (NHH).<br />
Management<br />
Ole Gunnar Fjelde, CEO<br />
Mr. Fjelde is the acting CEO of Comrod. He has been Vice President of Operations for Comrod since<br />
2003 and was plant manager at Compipe AS from 1994 to 2000. He has also experience from<br />
counsultancy and product development from Welldynamics AS and Ole Gunnar Fjelde AS. Mr. Fjelde<br />
is an automation mechanic and has also studied aircraft engineering.<br />
Kari Duestad, Finance Manager<br />
Ms. Duestad joined Comrod AS as financial director in 2005. Her former experience include the<br />
positions as Accounting Manager of Weatherford Norge AS (1988 – 2005) and accounting counsultant<br />
at Amoco (1985 – 1986). She is a Bachelor of Management from the Norwegian School of<br />
Management (BI) (1990).<br />
Jean Morrey, General Manager Lerc SA<br />
Mr. Mourey joined Lerc SA as Chief Financial Officer in 1982. In the period 1996 to 2003 he was<br />
chairman and General Manager, and from 2003 and till today he has served as General Manager of<br />
Lerc SA. His professional experience before joining Lerc include the position as Chief Financial<br />
Officer for Trigano Group (1976 – 1982) and Chief Financial Officer of Douriez-Bataille Group (1972<br />
– 1976). Mr. Mourey has an M.Sc. in business, with a specialisation in accounting and auditing from<br />
DECS (1972).<br />
Arne Risvik Syversen, Vice President Sales & Marketing, Power<br />
Mr. Syversen is responsible for sales and marketing of Comrod’s Power Supply products. He has<br />
extensive experience from international sales and marketing for technical products. From 1997 to 2006<br />
he was Sales Manager for Unitech/Eltek towards the defence and industry segments. He was<br />
previously sales manager at Tillquist AS, sales engineer at Honeywell AS, sales manager at<br />
Cosmotronic AS and sales manager at AMP Norge AS. Mr. Syversen is an engineer from Bergen<br />
Ingeniørhøgskole (1984).<br />
Over the five years preceding the date of this Prospectus, the members of the Board and the senior<br />
management presently have and have held the following directorships (apart from the directorship in<br />
the Company), partnerships and/or management positions:<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Name<br />
Board of Directors:<br />
Erik Espeset<br />
Randi Elin Hognestad<br />
Niklas Hermansson<br />
Merete Alnes Mostue<br />
Management:<br />
Ole Gunnar Fjelde<br />
Current<br />
directorships/partnerships<br />
Comrod AS, Norway<br />
Lerc SA, France<br />
Fidulerc SA, France<br />
Ragasco AS, Norway<br />
Raufoss Fuel Systems AS,<br />
Norway<br />
Devold AMT AS, Norway<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> Technology AS,<br />
Norway<br />
Lincoln <strong>Composites</strong> Inc., USA<br />
The environmental founcation Zero<br />
Månebakken AS, Norway<br />
Sophies Verden AS, Norway<br />
Axeleration AS, Norway<br />
Pertinax AS, Norway<br />
Kristians And AS, Norway<br />
Linsy AS, Trondheim, Norway<br />
Travel & Event AS, Bryne, Norway<br />
Directorships/partnerships/management<br />
positions previous 5 years<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong>, Group Managing<br />
Director<br />
Global IP Sound, director of investor relations<br />
Comrod AS, CEO<br />
Coop Møre BA<br />
Firmenich Bjørge Biomarin AS<br />
Bjørge Biomarin AS<br />
Ole Gunnar Fjelde AS<br />
Ole Gunnar Fjelde Eiendom AS<br />
Fjelde Holding AS<br />
Comrod AS, Operations Manager<br />
Ole Gunnar Fjelde AS<br />
Ole Gunnar Fjelde Eiendom AS<br />
Fjelde Holding AS<br />
Kari Duestad None Weatherford Norge AS, Chief Accountant<br />
Jean Morrey<br />
Arne Risvik Syversen<br />
Lerc SA<br />
Fidulerc SA<br />
None<br />
Lerc International SAS<br />
8.3.1 Other<br />
During the last five years preceding the date of this Prospectus, no member of the Board or the senior<br />
management has:<br />
- any convictions in relation to indictable offences or convictions in relation to fraudulent offences<br />
- received any official public incrimination and/or sanctions by any statutory ore regulatory<br />
authorities (including designated professional bodies) or ever been disqualified by a court from<br />
acting as a member of the administrative, management or supervisory bodies of a company or<br />
from acting in the management or conduct of the affairs of any company, or<br />
- been declared bankrupt or been associated with any bankruptcy, receivership or liquidation in<br />
his/her capacity as a founder, director or senior manager of a company.<br />
8.4 Conflicts of interest<br />
The following board members may at times be in a position where there is a conflict of interest<br />
between their other positions or directorships and their roles as directors for the Company:<br />
- Erik Espeset, as CEO of one of the Company’s main owners, <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong><br />
- Niklas Hermansson, as former CEO of Comrod<br />
The Company has taken reasonable steps to avoid potential conflicts of interests arising from the<br />
directors’ and management’s private interests and other duties. The Company is not aware of any<br />
potential conflicts of interests other than the above mentioned.<br />
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8.5 The Board’s independence<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> holds 25% of the Company’s share capital at the time of the Demerger, and is<br />
one of the Company’s main shareholders (see also section 10.6). One officer of <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong><br />
<strong>ASA</strong>) are board member of the Company. The former CEO of the Company has been elected a board<br />
member. He resigned his position at Comrod on 31 December 2006. Considering that the remaining<br />
two board members are independent from any major owners, management and principal business<br />
associates of the Company, the Company satisfies the regulations in the Norwegian Code of Practice<br />
for Corporate governance regarding the Board’s independence.<br />
8.6 Remuneration and benefits<br />
8.6.1 Remuneration and benefits<br />
The CEO of Comrod AS was paid a total salary, including bonus, of 1,390,708 for 2005.<br />
For 2005 and 2006 the board received a total of NOK 30,000 each year from Comrod AS. For the<br />
fiscal year 2007 the salary for the directors of Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> is expected to amount to<br />
NOK 100,000 annually for the chairman and NOK 75,000 for each board member. The remuneration<br />
of the directors shall be determined by the Company’s general meeting.<br />
8.6.2 Shares and options<br />
None of the directors or management group own shares or share options in the Company. As of the<br />
date of this Prospectus the Company has no share option programme.<br />
However, some of the Company’s employees currently participate in <strong>Hexagon</strong>’s share option<br />
programme. For the management group, this applies to Mr. Ole Gunnar Fjelde who has 30,000 share<br />
options in <strong>Hexagon</strong> as per the date of the Prospectus. For Mr. Ole Gunnar Fjelde the strike price is<br />
4.68 in 2007, 5.07 in 2008 and 9.82 in 2009.<br />
The Board may decide to establish a similar share option programme for the Comrod employees to<br />
replace the current share option programme in <strong>Hexagon</strong>.<br />
As of the date of the Prospectus Mr. Fjelde owned 30,769 shares in <strong>Hexagon</strong>.<br />
8.6.3 Pension, retirement or similar benefits<br />
Comrod does not have any agreements with regards to retirement or severance obligations with<br />
employees.<br />
The Company’s pension plan has been described in detail under section 7.1.22.<br />
A yearly bonus plan is not fixed, but is evaluated by the CEO based on the Company’s results each<br />
year. Up until now any bonus payment in Comrod has been equally shared between all employees.<br />
8.7 Board practices<br />
8.7.1 Term of office<br />
The following table sets out the length of the various board members’ terms of office and for which<br />
period each board member has served on the Board.<br />
Name Position Has served since Term expires<br />
Erik Espeset Chairman September 2006 2008<br />
Randi Elin Hognestad Board member December 2006 2008<br />
Niklas Hermansson Board member December 2006 2008<br />
Merete Alnes Mostue Board member December 2006 2008<br />
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8.7.2 Service contracts<br />
None of the board members are entitled to any severance payment upon termination or expiration of<br />
their service.<br />
There is no severance program for the employees apart from the normal terms of notice and what is<br />
mentioned under 8.6.3.<br />
8.7.3 Board committees<br />
The Company shall have a nominating committee to be elected at the Annual General Meeting. The<br />
Company’s nomination committee shall consist of three members, one of whom shall be a board<br />
member.<br />
The task of the Nomination Committee is to propose candidates for election as members of the Board<br />
of Directors and to make recommendations regarding the remuneration of the members of the Board<br />
of Directors.<br />
There are no other board committees.<br />
8.8 Employees<br />
As of the date of the Prospectus the Company has 166 employees, 81 of whom were employed at the<br />
Company’s head office in Tau, Norway. 85 of the Company’s employees were located abroad. See<br />
section 5.2 for more details.<br />
8.9 Financial reporting and IR<br />
The operating responsibility for the finance function will be handled by the Company’s Finance<br />
Manager, Ms. Kari Duestad. The Company has also entered into an agreement with <strong>Hexagon</strong><br />
regarding the assistance with financial reporting. This will include the consolidation of figures on a<br />
group level, and assistance with the annual reports and interim reports. See section 8.10 for more<br />
information regarding this agreement.<br />
Ms. Kari Duestad, will be day-to-day responsible for the handling of Investor Relations (“IR”). In<br />
addition, <strong>Hexagon</strong>’s CFO, Mr. Dag Olav Tennfjord, will advice the Company on overall IR issues,<br />
e.g. IR policy in general, use of the internet, webcasts, roadshows, etc. The Company will thereby be<br />
in a position to draw on <strong>Hexagon</strong>’s expertise in IR matters.<br />
8.10 Related Party Transactions<br />
The Company has entered into an agreement to purchase administrative services from <strong>Hexagon</strong>. These<br />
services will mainly be related to assistance with the financial reporting and IR.<br />
The background for this agreement is to ensure that Comrod can benefit from the expertise within<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> during the first phase as a listed company. See also section 8.8 for more details regarding this<br />
agreement.<br />
The above mentioned management agreement has been entered into as part of the Company’s ordinary<br />
operations and at arms length terms. The agreement has been entered into at market terms and can be<br />
terminated at one months notice.<br />
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9 SHARE CAPITAL AND SHAREHOLDER MATTERS<br />
9.1 Share capital - overview<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> is a public limited liability company organized under the laws of<br />
Norway. The Company’s share capital following the Demerger is NOK 16,938,649, made up of<br />
16,938,649 shares with a par value of NOK 1.00 per Share, all fully paid. All Shares of the Company<br />
are of the same class and are equal in all respects. The Company’s articles of association do not<br />
provide for shares of other classes. Each Share carries the right to one vote in shareholders’ meetings.<br />
The Company’s articles of association do not provide for limitations on the transferability or<br />
ownership of Shares.<br />
All Shares carry rights to dividends, if any, which the general meeting may resolve to distribute in<br />
accordance with the requirements of the Norwegian Public Limited Companies Act. There are no<br />
particular restrictions or procedures relating to distributions of dividends to shareholders who are<br />
resident outside of Norway. See, however, section 10.2 for a description of the withholding tax<br />
provisions relating to the distributions of dividends to non-residents.<br />
All Shares carry an equal right to any surplus in the event of a liquidation of the Company. The Shares<br />
are not subject to any redemption or con<strong>version</strong> provisions.<br />
Under the Norwegian Public Limited Companies Act, existing shareholders of the Company will, as a<br />
main rule, have pre-emptive rights to subscribe for any new Shares which the Company may issue.<br />
However, the pre-emptive rights of existing shareholders may be set aside by a majority of two thirds<br />
of the votes cast and the capital represented at the general meeting approving the share capital<br />
increase.<br />
The development of the Company’s share capital is set forth in the table below.<br />
Time Event Capital<br />
increase<br />
Share<br />
price<br />
Par<br />
value<br />
Share capital Shares<br />
issued<br />
19.09.2006 Incorporation 1 000 000.00 1.00 1.00 1 000 000.00 1 000 000<br />
19.01.2007 Demerger 12 703 987.00 1.00 13 703 987.00 13 703 987<br />
19.01.2007 Directed Issue 3 234 662.00 1.00 16 938 649.00 16 938 649<br />
9.2 Share Registration and Listing<br />
The Company’s shares are registered in book entry form in the VPS. The securities number of the<br />
shares is ISIN NO001 0338445. The registrar is DnB Nor <strong>ASA</strong>, Stranden 21, 0021 Oslo, Norway.<br />
Following the publication of this Prospectus, the Company’s Shares will listed on The Oslo Stock<br />
Exchange under the ticker code COMROD.<br />
9.3 Share Option Plan<br />
The Company has no share option plan for its employees. Some of the leading employees and board<br />
members have shares and share options in <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>, as described in more detail in<br />
section 8.6.2. The share option plan in <strong>Hexagon</strong> will be continued for the Comrod employees after the<br />
Demerger until the board of directors of <strong>Hexagon</strong> and/or Comrod resolves otherwise.<br />
9.4 Convertible loans, warrants etc.<br />
As of the date of the Demerger, the Company has no convertible loans or warrants.<br />
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9.5 Authorizations<br />
As of the date of the Prospectus there are no authorizations to issue new shares or convertible loans,<br />
nor any authorizations to purchase own shares or any other authorizations.<br />
9.6 Shareholder structure<br />
Based on the share register of <strong>Hexagon</strong> registered in the VPS per 16 January 2007 the number of<br />
registered shareholders of the Company will be about 1,492 as of the date of the Demerger. A total of<br />
1,444 (96.8%) of the shareholders are Norwegian and 48 (3.2%) are non-Norwegian.<br />
The following table sets forth the 20 largest shareholders of the Company:<br />
Shareholder: No. of shares: % ownership:<br />
FLAKK HOLDING AS 4 545 735 26,8 %<br />
HEXAGON COMPOSITES <strong>ASA</strong> 4 238 062 25,0 %<br />
BØCKMANN EIENDOM AS 1 154 753 6,8 %<br />
MP PENSJON 1 005 310 5,9 %<br />
RASMUSSENGRUPPEN AS 725 200 4,3 %<br />
VERDIPAPIRFOND ODIN NORDEN 568 730 3,4 %<br />
SAGA EQUITY FUND 465 800 2,7 %<br />
SKAGEN VEKST 300 000 1,8 %<br />
HSBC BANK PLC 281 750 1,7 %<br />
JPMORGAN CHASE BANK 244 750 1,4 %<br />
FLAKK, KNUT 193 125 1,1 %<br />
HOLBERG NORGE 185 200 1,1 %<br />
SEB PRIVATE BANK S.A. LUXEMBOURG 150 000 0,9 %<br />
STRAFO A/S, NIL 130 000 0,8 %<br />
FLYDAL, LARS IVAR 127 333 0,8 %<br />
MOLVÆR, IVAR ARVIC 100 000 0,6 %<br />
STAFSET, KÅRE 100 000 0,6 %<br />
VERDIPAPIRFONDET DANSKE FUND NOR 85 300 0,5 %<br />
STATE STREET BANK AND TRUST CO. 84 400 0,5 %<br />
RASMUSSEN, DAG 70 000 0,4 %<br />
Sum 20 largest shareholders: 14 755 447 87,1 %<br />
Other: 2 183 202 12,9 %<br />
Total: 16 938 649 100,0 %<br />
9.6.1 Major shareholders<br />
According to the shareholder structure in <strong>Hexagon</strong> as of the date of the Demerger, Flakk Holding AS 4 ,<br />
will be the largest shareholder in Comrod with an ownership stake of 26.8%. <strong>Hexagon</strong> will be the<br />
second largest shareholder with an ownership share of 25%. Two other shareholders have major<br />
ownership shares, i.e. Bøckmann Eiendom AS 5 with 6.8% and MP Pensjon with 5.9% of the shares.<br />
No other shareholders hold a number of shares in the Company that is notifiable under Norwegian law<br />
(more than 5%).<br />
None of the Company’s major shareholders, or any other shareholders in the Company, have voting<br />
rights different from other shareholders.<br />
4 The main shareholder of Flakk Holding AS is Knut Flakk, chairman of the board of <strong>Hexagon</strong>. Flakk Holding AS and Knut Flakk has a<br />
combined ownership stake of 27.9% of the Company as of the date of the Demerger.<br />
5 Gunnar Bøckmann, board member of <strong>Hexagon</strong>, is a main owner of Bøckmann Eiendom.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
9.6.2 Shareholder agreements<br />
The Company is not aware of any shareholder, or group of shareholders, that control Comrod, or that<br />
any group of shareholders have entered into agreements, or cooperate, to that effect. The Board or<br />
Management of the Company are not aware of any arrangement that may result in, prevent or restrict a<br />
change in control of Comrod.<br />
9.6.3 Lock-up agreements<br />
No shareholder has entered into any lock-up agreement with respect to the Company’s shares.<br />
9.7 Articles of Association<br />
The Company’s articles of association are set out in Appendix 1 to this Prospectus.<br />
Pursuant to article 3 of the articles of association, the objective of the Company is to operate business<br />
related to production and sales of communication products of fiberglass and other materials, including<br />
participation in companies engaged in similar business, and any other things related to this.<br />
The articles of association provide that the Board of Directors of the Company shall have no less than<br />
3 and no more than 8 members, elected by the annual general meeting.<br />
The articles of association do not provide for any rights, preferences and restrictions attaching to the<br />
Shares.<br />
The articles of association do not lay down more significant conditions necessary to change the rights<br />
of shareholders than required by the Norwegian Public Limited Companies Act.<br />
Under the Norwegian Public Limited Companies Act, general meetings must be convened by written<br />
notice to all shareholders whose address is known. The notice must be sent at the latest two weeks<br />
before the date of the general meeting. The notice must set forth the time and date of the meeting and<br />
specify the agenda of the meeting. It must also name the person appointed by the Board of Directors to<br />
open the meeting. All shareholders who are registered in the register of shareholders maintained by the<br />
VPS as of the date of the general meeting, or have otherwise reported and proved an acquisition of<br />
Shares, are entitled to admission without any requirement for pre-registration. The articles of<br />
association do not contain any provisions as to the manner in which general meetings of the Company<br />
are called or as to the conditions of admission to general meetings.<br />
There are no provisions in the articles of association which would have an effect of delaying, deferring<br />
or preventing a change of control of the Company, or which require disclosure of ownership above<br />
any thresholds. However, please see section 9.12 for a description of the requirements under the<br />
Securities Trading Act for the disclosure of transactions which cause certain thresholds to be passed.<br />
The articles of association do not impose more stringent conditions for changing the capital of the<br />
Company than required by law.<br />
Amendment of the Company’s Articles of Association would require the affirmative vote of twothirds<br />
of the votes cast at a general meeting as well as two-thirds of the share capital represented at the<br />
meeting. Certain types of changes in the rights of the Company’s shareholders require the consent of<br />
all shareholders or 90 % of the votes cast at a general meeting. Each outstanding share gives the right<br />
to one vote, and all of the Company’s shares have an equal right to vote on general meetings.<br />
9.8 Shareholder and dividend policy<br />
As a listed company, Comrod will be committed to a shareholder friendly policy where maximum<br />
dividends are paid out, taking operational and financial covenants into consideration. Financial<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
covenants which the Company has to adhere to and restrictions and limitations on the ability of the<br />
Company to pay out dividends or make other distribution to their shareholders are described in more<br />
detail under section 7.6.4, “Restrictions on use of capital resources”.<br />
The Company will seek to assist the market and the Company’s shareholders with reliable and<br />
consistent information in order to secure that the market is able to assess the most correct pricing of<br />
the Company’s share capital. The Company will to carry out regular reporting of financial statements<br />
and presentations to the market, investors and analysts in Norway. All financial reports and<br />
presentations will be distributed through the electronic message system of the Oslo Stock Exchange.<br />
9.9 Corporate governance<br />
Upon listing of the Comrod shares on the Oslo Stock Exchange, Comrod will be committed to<br />
following high standards of corporate governance based on the principles set forth in the Norwegian<br />
Code of Practice for Corporate Governance. The corporate governance principles of Comrod comply<br />
with the Norwegian Code of Practice for Corporate Governance with the exception that the Company<br />
has not established any sub-committees to the Board, i.e. there are not compensation and audit<br />
committees as outlined in the Corporate Governance recommendations. Because of the Company’s<br />
size, it is at present regarded as adequate that the Board attends to these matters directly.<br />
The Board will annually produce a report as to corporate governance, which will be included in the<br />
annual report. To the extent that the Company does not fully adhere to all recommendations in the<br />
Norwegian Code of Practice for Corporate Governance, the reasons for choosing an alternative<br />
approach will be explained in the annual report.<br />
9.10 Mandatory Bid Rules<br />
Norwegian law requires any person, or associated persons that acquire more than 40% of the voting<br />
rights of a Norwegian company listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange to make an unconditional general<br />
offer to acquire the whole of the outstanding share capital of that company. The offer must be made<br />
within four weeks of the transaction which triggers the obligation to make the offer. The offer is<br />
subject to approval by the Oslo Stock Exchange before submission of the offer to the shareholders.<br />
The offer must be in cash or contain a cash alternative at least equivalent to any other consideration<br />
offered. The offering price per share must be at least as high as the highest price paid or agreed to be<br />
paid by the offeror in the six-month period prior to the date the 40% threshold was exceeded, but at<br />
least equal to the market price when the 40% threshold was exceeded if it is clear that that market<br />
price was higher than the highest price in the preceding six months. A shareholder who fails to make<br />
the required offer must, within four weeks, dispose of sufficient shares to bring his shareholding below<br />
40%. Otherwise, the Oslo Stock Exchange may cause the shares exceeding the 40% limit to be sold by<br />
public auction. A shareholder who fails to make such bid within the statutory time limit cannot, as<br />
long as the mandatory bid requirement remains in force, vote for his shares or exercise any rights of<br />
share ownership, unless a majority of the remaining shareholders approve. However, such shareholder<br />
retains the right to receive dividends and preferential rights in the event of a share capital increase. In<br />
addition, the Oslo Stock Exchange may impose a daily fine upon a shareholder who fails to make the<br />
required offer.<br />
9.11 Compulsory Acquisition Rules<br />
A shareholder who, directly or via subsidiaries, acquires shares representing more than 90% of the<br />
total number of issued shares as well as more than 90% of the total voting rights of a company has the<br />
right (and each remaining minority shareholder of that company would have the right to require the<br />
majority shareholder) to effect a compulsory acquisition of any shares not already owned by the<br />
majority shareholder. A compulsory acquisition results in the majority shareholder becoming the<br />
owner of the shares of the minority shareholders with immediate effect.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
A majority shareholder who effects a compulsory acquisition is required to offer the minority<br />
shareholders a specific price per share and to pay the consideration offered to a separate bank account<br />
for the benefit of the minority shareholders. The determination of the offer price is at the discretion of<br />
the majority shareholder. Should any minority shareholder not accept the offered price, such minority<br />
shareholder may, within a specified period of not less than two months, request that the price be set by<br />
the Norwegian courts. The cost of such court procedure would normally be charged to the account of<br />
the majority shareholder, and the courts would have full discretion in determining the consideration<br />
due to the minority shareholder as a result of the compulsory acquisition.<br />
9.12 Disclosure of Acquisition and Disposals<br />
Under the Securities Trading Act, a person, entity or group acting in concert that acquires or disposes<br />
of shares, options for shares or other rights to shares resulting in its beneficial ownership, directly or<br />
indirectly, in the aggregate, reaching, exceeding or falling below the respective thresholds of 1/20,<br />
1/10, 1/5 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 or 9/10 of the share capital has an obligation to notify the Oslo Stock Exchange<br />
immediately.<br />
9.13 Public takeover bids past 12 months<br />
There have been no public takeover bids for the Company for the past 12 months.<br />
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10 TAXATION<br />
This section describes certain tax consequences in Norway for shareholders who are resident in<br />
Norway for tax purposes (“Norwegian Shareholders”) and for shareholders who are not resident in<br />
Norway for tax purposes (“Non-resident Shareholders”). The statements herein regarding taxation<br />
are based on the laws in force in Norway as of the date of this Prospectus and are subject to any<br />
changes in law occurring after such date, which changes could be made on a retrospective basis. The<br />
following summary does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all the tax considerations<br />
that may be relevant to a decision to purchase, own or dispose of shares. Investors are advised to<br />
consult their own tax advisors concerning the overall tax consequences of their ownership of shares.<br />
10.1 Norwegian shareholders<br />
10.1.1 Taxation on dividends<br />
Norwegian corporate shareholders (i.e. limited liability companies and similar entities) are not subject<br />
to Norwegian tax on dividends received on shares in companies’ resident within the European<br />
Economic Area. Thus, any dividend received on the Shares is not taxable for a Norwegian Corporate<br />
Shareholder.<br />
Dividends distributed to Norwegian individual shareholders are taxable under the Shareholder Model.<br />
According to the Shareholder Model, individual shareholder’s income from shares (dividends and<br />
capital gains) is taxable as ordinary income (28% flat rate) to the extent the income exceeds a basic<br />
tax-free allowance. The tax-free allowance shall be calculated on a share by share basis and is equal to<br />
the tax purchase price of the share multiplied by a risk-free interest. The risk-free interest will be<br />
calculated every income year. Any unused allowance may be carried forward and set off against future<br />
dividend distributions on the same share or against gains on the realisation of the share.<br />
Partnerships are as a general rule transparent for Norwegian tax purposes. Taxation occurs at partner<br />
level, and each partner is taxed on a current basis for its proportional share of the net income generated<br />
by the partnership at a rate of 28%, regardless of whether such income is distributed to the partners or<br />
not. However, dividends received by the partnership are not taxed on a current basis. For partners who<br />
are Norwegian personal shareholders taxation occurs when the dividends received are distributed from<br />
the partnership to such partners. Such distributions will be taxed as ordinary income at a rate of 28%.<br />
The Norwegian personal shareholders will be entitled to deduct a calculated allowance when<br />
calculating their taxable income, cf. the description of tax issues related to personal shareholders<br />
above. Norwegian corporate shareholders holding shares through a partnership will be exempt from<br />
taxation of their proportional part of dividends received and distributed by the partnership.<br />
10.1.2 Taxation on capital gains / losses on disposal of shares<br />
Norwegian Corporate Shareholders are not subject to tax on capital gains derived from realisation of<br />
shares in companies’ resident within the European Economic Area, while losses suffered from such<br />
realisations are not tax deductible. Costs incurred in connection with the purchase and sale of such<br />
shares are not tax deductible. Thus, any capital gains on the Shares are not taxable while losses are not<br />
deductible for a Norwegian Corporate Shareholder.<br />
Norwegian individual shareholders are taxable in Norway for capital gains on the realisation of shares,<br />
and have a corresponding right to deduct losses. This applies irrespective of how long the shares have<br />
been owned by the individual shareholder and irrespective of how many shares that are realised. Gains<br />
are taxable as ordinary income in the year of realisation, and losses can be deducted from ordinary<br />
income in the year of realisation. The current tax rate for ordinary income is 28%. Under current tax<br />
rules, gain or loss is calculated per share, as the difference between the consideration received and the<br />
tax base of the share. The tax base of each share is based on the individual shareholder’s purchase<br />
price for the share. Unused allowance connected to a share may be deducted from a capital gain on the<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
same share, but may not lead to or increase a deductible loss. Further, unused allowance may not be<br />
set off against gains from realisation of the other shares.<br />
If an individual shareholder disposes of shares acquired at different times, the shares that were first<br />
acquired will be deemed as first sold (the “FIFO”-principle) upon calculating taxable gain or loss.<br />
Costs incurred in connection with the purchase and sale of shares may be deducted in the year of sale.<br />
Partnerships are as a general rule transparent for Norwegian tax purposes, and taxation occurs at<br />
partner level on a current basis, cf section 10.1.1 above. However, capital gains received by the<br />
partnership are not taxed on a current basis. For partners who are Norwegian personal shareholders<br />
taxation occurs when the capital gains received are distributed from the partnership to such partners.<br />
Such distributions will be taxed as ordinary income at a rate of 28%. The Norwegian personal<br />
shareholders will be entitled to deduct a calculated allowance when calculating their taxable income,<br />
cf. the description of tax issues related to personal shareholders above. Norwegian corporate<br />
shareholders holding shares through a partnership will be exempt from taxation of their proportional<br />
part of capital gains received and distributed by the partnership.<br />
10.1.3 Net wealth tax<br />
Norwegian limited liability companies and certain similar entities are exempt from Norwegian net<br />
wealth tax.<br />
For other Norwegian shareholders, shares will form part of their basis for calculation of Norwegian net<br />
wealth tax. Listed shares are valued at 85% of their quoted value as of 1 January in the assessment<br />
year. The current marginal wealth tax rate is 1.1%.<br />
10.2 Non-resident shareholders<br />
10.2.1 Taxation on dividends<br />
Dividends distributed from a Norwegian company to Non-resident shareholders are subject to<br />
Norwegian withholding tax at a rate of 25% unless the recipient qualifies for a reduced rate according<br />
to an applicable tax treaty or other specific regulations. Norway has entered into tax treaties with a<br />
number of countries and withholding tax is normally set at 15% under these treaties. The withholding<br />
obligation lies with the Company distributing the dividends. Foreign shareholders who have suffered a<br />
higher withholding tax than set out by an applicable tax treaty may apply to the Norwegian tax<br />
authorities for a refund of the excess withholding tax deducted.<br />
Corporate shareholders resident within the European Economic Area are not subject to Norwegian<br />
withholding tax.<br />
Dividends paid to individual shareholders are as the main rule subject to Norwegian withholding tax at<br />
a rate of 25%, unless a lower rate has been agreed in an applicable tax treaty. If the individual<br />
shareholder is resident within the European Economic Area, the shareholder may apply to the tax<br />
authorities for a refund of an amount corresponding to the tax-free allowance on each individual share.<br />
Dividends distributed to foreign partnerships are normally subject to withholding tax at a rate of 25%.<br />
However, the partners in the partnership may be entitled to a reduced withholding tax rate (or a zero<br />
rate) based on their tax residency and/or applicable tax treaties. However, this depends on each<br />
partner’s specific situation, and each investor is advised to consult with their tax advisors in this<br />
respect.<br />
In accordance with the present administrative system in Norway, a distributing company will generally<br />
deduct withholding tax at the applicable rate when dividends are paid directly to an eligible foreign<br />
shareholder, based on information registered with the VPS. Dividends paid to foreign shareholders in<br />
respect of nominee registered shares are not eligible for reduced treaty withholding tax rate at the time<br />
of payment unless the nominee, by agreeing to provide certain information regarding beneficial owner,<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
has obtained approval for reduced treaty withholding tax rate from the Central Office for Foreign Tax<br />
Affairs.<br />
Foreign shareholders should consult their own advisers regarding the availability of treaty benefits in<br />
respect of dividend payments.<br />
10.2.2 Taxation on capital gains / losses on disposal of shares<br />
Shareholders not tax resident in Norway are as a main rule not taxable for gains on disposal of shares<br />
in Norwegian limited entities, and losses on disposal of such shares are similarly not deductible.<br />
A Norwegian personal shareholder who moves abroad and ceases to be tax resident in Norway as a<br />
result of this, will be deemed taxable in Norway for any potential gain on the shares held at the time<br />
the tax residency ceased, as if the shares were realised at this time(“the exit rules”). Gains of NOK 500<br />
000 or less are not taxable. If the person moves to a jurisdiction within the EEA, losses on shares held<br />
at the time tax residency ceases will be tax deductible. Taxation (loss deduction) will occur at the time<br />
the shares are actually sold or otherwise disposed of. If the shares are not realised within five years<br />
after the shareholder ceased to be resident in Norway for tax purposes, the tax liability calculated<br />
under these provisions will not apply.<br />
The Government has reintroduced the earlier five year rule, which implies that a Norwegian personal<br />
shareholder who moves abroad and ceases to be tax resident is taxable in Norway for gains upon<br />
realisation of shares in Norwegian companies if the shares are realised within five years after the<br />
shareholder ceased to be resident in Norway for tax purposes. If both the exit rules and the<br />
reintroduced five year rule are applicable, the exit rules shall prevail.<br />
Such taxation may be limited according to an applicable tax treaty.<br />
10.2.3 Net wealth tax<br />
Foreign shareholders are not subject to net wealth tax in Norway on shares in Norwegian companies<br />
unless the shareholder is an individual and the shareholding is effectively connected with business<br />
activities carried out by the shareholder in Norway.<br />
10.3 Transfer taxes etc. VAT<br />
No transfer taxes, stamp duty or similar taxes are currently imposed in Norway on purchase, disposal<br />
or redemption of shares. Further, there is no VAT on transfer of shares.<br />
10.4 Inheritance tax<br />
Upon transfer of shares by way of inheritance or gift, the transfer may be subject to Norwegian<br />
inheritance or gift tax. The basis for computation is the market value of the shares on the time the<br />
transfer takes place. However, such a transfer is not subject to Norwegian tax if the donor/deceased<br />
was neither a citizen nor resident of Norway for tax purposes at the time of the transfer.<br />
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11 LEGAL MATTERS<br />
11.1 Certain regulatory issues with respect to the United States<br />
No securities are being offered to US Persons (as defined in regulation S under the Securities Act<br />
("Regulation S"). The Shares have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act of<br />
1993, or with any other regulatory authority of any state or other jurisdiction in the United States, and<br />
may not be offered, sold, pledged or otherwise transferred except pursuant to an exemption from, or in<br />
a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act and in compliance with<br />
any applicable state securities law.<br />
The distribution of this Prospectus in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law. Persons in<br />
possession of this prospectus are required to inform themselves about and to observe such restrictions.<br />
No shares or other securities are being offered or sold in any jurisdiction pursuant to this Prospectus.<br />
11.2 Legal and arbitration proceedings<br />
There has been no governmental, legal or arbitration proceedings (including such proceedings pending<br />
or threatened) during the period of the last 12 months which may have, or have had in the recent,<br />
significant effects on Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> and its subsidiaries’ financial position or<br />
profitability.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
12 DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY<br />
For the life of the Prospectus the following documents (or copies thereof), where applicable, may be<br />
inspected at the offices of the Company at Fiskåvegen 1, 4120 Tau, Norway:<br />
(a) the memorandum and articles of association of the Company;<br />
(b) the Comrod AS’ financial statements (annual reports and interim reports) for 2003, 2004,<br />
2005 till and including the 3 quarter of 2006<br />
(c) The annual report for Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> for 2006<br />
(c) the Demerger Plan dated 29 September 2006<br />
These documents may also be found en electronic form at the Company’s web site at<br />
www.comrod.com or at www.hexagon.com.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
13 DEFINITIONS<br />
Board:<br />
Board or Board of Directors:<br />
CHF:<br />
Communication Business:<br />
The board of directors of Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
The board of directors of Comrod<br />
Swiss franc, the lawful currency of Switzerland<br />
Comrod AS including all subsidiaries and assets owned by the company<br />
Company: Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong>, org. no. 900 295 697<br />
Completion Date:<br />
Composite Business:<br />
Comrod AS:<br />
Comrod Companies:<br />
Comrod:<br />
Demerger:<br />
Demerger Plan<br />
EBIT:<br />
EBITDA:<br />
Effective Date:<br />
EGM:<br />
ERP:<br />
EUR:<br />
Fidulerc S.A.:<br />
First Securities:<br />
GBP:<br />
GMDSS:<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> Companies:<br />
The date on which the Demerger will be consummated, expected to occur on or about<br />
19 January 2007<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> excluding Comrod AS and its subsidiaries<br />
Subsidiary of <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> to be transferred with all its assets from<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> to Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> in connection with the Demerger<br />
described in this Prospectus.<br />
Comrod Communications <strong>ASA</strong> and subsidiaries following the Demerger<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
The proposed demerger of Comrod from <strong>Hexagon</strong>, to be effected as set out in the<br />
Demerger Plan<br />
The plan of demerger of Comrod, dated 29 September 2006, which governs the terms<br />
of the demerger.<br />
Earnings before interest and taxes.<br />
Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.<br />
1 January 2007; the date on which the Demerger shall take effect for tax and<br />
financial statements purposes.<br />
Extraordinary shareholders meeting<br />
Enterprise Resource Planning, a common abbreviation for software systems for<br />
finance and operations management<br />
Euro, the lawful currency within most EU countries<br />
French company with registration no. B 410 954 499, subsidiary of Comrod AS<br />
First Securities <strong>ASA</strong>.<br />
British pound sterling, the lawful currency of the UK<br />
General Marine Distress system at sea<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> and subsidiaries following the Demerger<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong>: <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>, org.no. 938 992 185<br />
HF:<br />
IFRS:<br />
Integrator<br />
Lerc or Lerc SA:<br />
LOS:<br />
Management:<br />
Manager:<br />
MEUR:<br />
High Frequency<br />
International Financing Reporting Standards<br />
The Integrator is typical, a large engineering Company that has the turnkey<br />
contracts/installations of a communication platform. They install, test and verify that<br />
the system functions are as expected and according to ordered specifications.<br />
Examples of this are General Dynamics and Thales Group.<br />
Laboratoire d’Etudes et de Recherrches Chimiques (LERC) SA, company located in<br />
France with registration no. B 542 087 044, subsidiary of Fidulerc S.A.<br />
Line of Sight (wireless communication)<br />
The management team of Comrod<br />
First Securities <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Million Euro<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
MLV:<br />
MNOK:<br />
MOD:<br />
NGAAP:<br />
NOK:<br />
Norwegian Register of Business<br />
Enterprises:<br />
Norwegian Securities Act:<br />
OEM:<br />
Oslo Stock Exchange:<br />
Mast light weight<br />
Million NOK<br />
Ministry of Defence<br />
Norwegian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles<br />
Norwegian kroner, the lawful currency of Norway<br />
Foretaksregisteret<br />
The Securities Act of 19 June 1997 no 70 (in Norwegian: “Verdipapirhandelloven”).<br />
Original Equipment Manufacturer<br />
Oslo Børs <strong>ASA</strong>. The stock exchange located in Oslo, Norway.<br />
Power operations The power supply unit acquired from Eltek Energy in 1Q 2006.<br />
Prospectus:<br />
R&D:<br />
This document, prepared in connection with the Demerger and listing of Comrod,<br />
including all appendixes hereto<br />
Research and development<br />
Securities Trading Act: The Norwegian Securities Trading Act of 19 June 1997<br />
Share Capital:<br />
Share(s):<br />
the Comrod Business:<br />
UHF/DECT:<br />
UHF/GPS:<br />
UHF/WLAN:<br />
USD:<br />
VHF/DECT:<br />
VHF/GPS:<br />
VHF/WLAN:<br />
VPS:<br />
The total amount of registered and outstanding Shares in Comrod at the date of this<br />
Prospectus.<br />
the shares in Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Comrod Communications <strong>ASA</strong> and subsidiaries following the Demerger<br />
Ultra high frequency combined with digital European cordless telephone<br />
Ultra high frequency combined with global positioning system<br />
Ultra high frequency combined with wireless local area network<br />
United States Dollars, the lawful currency of the US<br />
Very high frequency combined with digital European cordless telephone<br />
Very high frequency combined with global positioning system<br />
Very high frequency combined with wireless local area network<br />
The Norwegian Securities Registry (in Norwegian: “Verdipapirsentralen”).<br />
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APPENDIX 1: ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION<br />
This is an office translation of the Articles of Association of Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong>. The<br />
official language of this document is Norwegian. In the event of any discrepancy between the<br />
Norwegian and <strong>English</strong> text, the Norwegian shall take precedence.<br />
ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION<br />
OF<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
(adopted 19 September 2006)<br />
§ 1 Company<br />
The name of the company is Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong>. The company is a public limited<br />
liability company<br />
§ 2 Registered office<br />
The registered office is in Strand municipality.<br />
§ 3 Object of the company<br />
The company’s object is business related to production and sales of communication-products<br />
made of fibreglass and other materials, and participation in companies within the same<br />
business area, and any other business related to this.<br />
§ 4 Share capital<br />
The company’s share capital is NOK 1,000,000.- divided into 1,000,000 shares, each with a<br />
par value of NOK 1. The company’s shares shall be registered in the Norwegian Central<br />
Securities Depository (VPS).<br />
§ 5 Share transferring rights<br />
The shares of the company may be transferred without any restrictions.<br />
§ 6 Board of Directors<br />
The board of directors of the company shall consist of 3 to 8 members elected by the General<br />
Meeting.<br />
§ 7 Management<br />
The company shall have a chief executive officer.<br />
§ 8 Signature<br />
Two directors of the board may jointly sign for and on behalf of the Company.<br />
The board of directors may grant power of attorney<br />
§ 9 The General Meeting<br />
The General Meeting shall:<br />
1) approve the annual accounts and the annual reports,<br />
2) decide on allocation of profits or deficits, including the distribution of dividends<br />
3) elect directors of the board<br />
4) deal with any other business as required by and in accordance with the law<br />
105
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
APPENDIX 2: ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2005 FOR COMROD AS<br />
2005 – annual report<br />
COMROD ANNUAL REPORT - 2005<br />
Description of Business<br />
Comrod AS operates from Tau in Rogaland, developing, manufacturing and marketing communications<br />
equipment for defence, naval and commercial use, with a market that encompasses the whole world.<br />
This annual report has been prepared on the basis of a going concern.<br />
2005 was a year marked by a high level of activity and positive market development.<br />
Sales income ended the year on NOK 109.6 million. Export sales accounted for 91% of turnover.<br />
The Environment<br />
1.1 Working Environment<br />
No serious injury/damage to individuals or equipment was recorded.<br />
Total sickness absence in 2005 was approx. 2.5%, which is considerably lower than the sector average.<br />
During the year, the company invested in a number of environmental measures at its production premises.<br />
The company practises a policy of gender equality with regard to salary and development opportunities. At<br />
the end of the year, 23 of the 75 permanent employees were female.<br />
1.2 External Environment<br />
The company does not release any substances into the surrounding environment which require any kind of<br />
permit. Waste is sent to approved disposal sites. The company is not aware of any conditions that might<br />
concern emissions in previous periods. The company has been established at its present location since 1970.<br />
There are no health hazards associated with the company’s products when they leave the company.<br />
Energy consumption in 2005 was approx. 1,400,000 kWh of electrical power and 5,000 litres of oil.<br />
Future Prospects<br />
There continue to be high levels of activity in the defence market and the prospects for 2006 appear positive.<br />
The company has a good backlog of orders for 2006. In maritime operations, sales to the company’s<br />
traditional market, the merchant fleet, are stable. Comrod expects that ongoing and planned<br />
expansion/improvement projects will give the company a sharper competitive edge.<br />
Financial Status<br />
Operating profit amounted to NOK 24,464,310, compared with NOK 26,875,315 in 2004. Profit before tax<br />
was NOK 25,835,437, compared with NOK 25,015,578 in 2004.<br />
The Board proposes that the profit for the year of NOK 18,539,494 be allocated as follows:<br />
Group contribution NOK 18,263,520<br />
Transferred to Other equity NOK 275,974<br />
Share capital amounts to NOK 1,500,000. All shares are owned by <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>.<br />
Equity at 31.12.05 is 11%.<br />
No circumstances of significance to the 2005 annual report occurred during 2006.<br />
Tau, 6 February 2006 / 31 December 2005<br />
Erik Espeset Tore Johan Fjell Sigurd Håbakk<br />
Chairman of the Board<br />
Solfrid Abrahamsen<br />
Niklas Hermansson<br />
Managing Director<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Comrod AS<br />
Annual Accounts 2005<br />
Comrod AS<br />
Annual Accounts 2005<br />
Profit and Loss Account<br />
01.01 - 31.12<br />
Note 2 005 2 004<br />
Revenue 2 109 559 382 106 737 108<br />
Other operating income 0 35 000<br />
Total operating income 109 559 382 106 772 108<br />
Changes in work in progress and finished goods 1 649 749 -658 000<br />
Cost of materials 28 918 489 31 155 581<br />
Payroll expenses 4,5 38 010 201 34 154 379<br />
Depreciation of fixed assets 6 2 521 644 1 856 897<br />
Other operating expenses 13 994 989 13 387 936<br />
Operating profit 24 464 310 26 875 315<br />
Interest received 136 253 134 734<br />
Other financial income 2 981 972 1 211 688<br />
Interest payable to group companies 1 051 415 793 831<br />
Other interest expenses 235 203 348 529<br />
Other financial expenses 460 480 2 063 799<br />
Net financial items 1 371 127 -1 859 737<br />
Profit before taxes 25 835 437 25 015 578<br />
Tax on ordinary profit 10 7 295 943 6 949 185<br />
Profit for the year 18 539 494 18 066 393<br />
Profit for the year is distributed as follows:<br />
Group contribution (net after tax) 18 263 520 18 083 808<br />
Other equity 275 974 -17 415<br />
Total distributed 18 539 494 18 066 393<br />
107
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Comrod AS<br />
Annual Accounts 2005<br />
Balance sheet<br />
Note 31.12.2005 31.12.2004<br />
Assets<br />
Fixed assets<br />
Intangible fixed assets<br />
Deferred tax asset 10 718 888 531 064<br />
Total intangible fixed assets 718 888 531 064<br />
Tangible fixed assets<br />
Land, buildings and other property 6 11 976 785 12 057 235<br />
Plant and machinery 6 7 305 918 6 484 043<br />
Fixtures and fittings 6 1 597 924 755 429<br />
Total tangible fixed assets 20 880 627 19 296 707<br />
Total fixed assets 21 599 515 19 827 771<br />
Current assets<br />
Inventories 3 16 200 165 17 446 914<br />
Accounts receivable<br />
Trade accounts receivable 36 200 394 16 455 093<br />
Other receivables 4 445 049 2 699 329<br />
Forward exchange contracts 2 462 231 0<br />
Receivables group companies 9 15 821 899 10 313 848<br />
Total accounts receivable 58 929 573 29 468 270<br />
Cash and cash equivalents 1 677 885 1 525 444<br />
Total current assets 76 807 623 48 440 628<br />
Total assets 98 407 138 68 268 399<br />
Comrod AS<br />
Annual Accounts 2005<br />
Balance sheet<br />
Note 31.12.2005 31.12.2004<br />
Equity and liabilities<br />
Equity<br />
Called up share capital<br />
Share capital 11,12 1 500 000 1 500 000<br />
Other paid-in equity 11 4 700 000 2 200 000<br />
Total called up capital 6 200 000 3 700 000<br />
Retained earnings<br />
Reserve for valuation variances 11 1 091 629 0<br />
Other equity 11 3 523 483 5 319 590<br />
Total retained earnings 4 615 112 5 319 590<br />
Total equity 10 815 112 9 019 590<br />
Liabilities<br />
Provisions<br />
Pension liabilities 5 5 373 240 2 828 554<br />
Total provisions 5 373 240 2 828 554<br />
Other long-term liabilities<br />
Other long-term liabilities 7 0 6 231 152<br />
Total long-term liabilities 0 6 231 152<br />
Current liabilities<br />
Accounts payable 6 605 525 5 618 772<br />
Social security, VAT and other taxation payable 3 192 862 2 886 637<br />
Liabilities to group companies 9 60 841 332 34 938 583<br />
Other current liabilities 11 579 067 6 745 111<br />
Total current liabilities 82 218 786 50 189 103<br />
Total liabilities 87 592 026 59 248 809<br />
Total equity and liabilities 98 407 138 68 268 399<br />
108
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Comrod AS<br />
Annual Accounts 2005<br />
Cash flow statement 01.01 - 31.12<br />
Note 2 005 2 004<br />
Cash flow from operating activities<br />
Profit before tax 25 835 437 25 015 578<br />
Depreciation 2 521 644 1 856 897<br />
Changes in inventories 1 246 749 -1 122 000<br />
Changes in accounts receivables -19 745 301 -2 181 836<br />
Changes in accounts payables 986 753 -6 885 348<br />
Changes in pension plan assets /liabilities -424 544 398 539<br />
Changes in other current balance sheet items 4 494 711 2 678 419<br />
Changes in receivables group companies -4 971 302 -14 126 099<br />
Net cash flow from operating activities 9 944 147 5 634 150<br />
Cash flow from investing activities<br />
Investments in tangible fixed assets -4 105 563 -4 189 286<br />
Net cash flow from investing activities -4 105 563 -4 189 286<br />
Cash flow from financing activities<br />
Proceeds from- and repayment of long term debt -5 686 144 -1 092 159<br />
Net cash flow from financing activities -5 686 144 -1 092 159<br />
Net change in cash and cash equivalents 152 440 352 705<br />
Cash and cash equivalents 01.01. 1 525 444 1 172 739<br />
Cash and cash equivalents 31.12. 1 677 884 1 525 444<br />
Comrod AS<br />
Annual Accounts 2005<br />
Notes<br />
Note 1 Accounting principles<br />
The financial statements are prepared in accordance with the Norwegian Accounting Act and Norwegian generally<br />
accepted accounting principles<br />
Sales revenue<br />
Sales revenue is recognized at the time of delivery.<br />
Balance sheet classification and valuation<br />
Current assets and short term liabilities consist of receivables and payables due within one year, and entries related<br />
to goods in circulation. Other entries are classified as fixed assets / long term liabilities.<br />
Current assets are valued at the lower of acquisition cost and fair value. Short term liabilities are recognized at<br />
nominal value.<br />
Fixed assets are valued at acquisition cost, but in the case of impairment the asset will be written down to the<br />
recoverable amount if this is lower than the recorded amount. Recoverable amount is the higher of value in use and<br />
net realisable value. Long term liabilities are recognized at nominal value.<br />
Intangible assets / government grants<br />
Costs related to research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Government grants from SkatteFUNN<br />
related to development costs are treated as a reduction in development costs.<br />
Accounts receivable and other receivables<br />
Accounts receivable and other current receivables are recorded in the balance sheet at nominal value less provisions<br />
for doubtful debts. Provisions for doubtful debts are estimated using individual assessments of the different<br />
receivables. In addition, for the remainder of the receivables, a general provision is estimated based on expected<br />
loss.<br />
Inventories<br />
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market value. Cost is estimated using the FIFO method. Finished goods<br />
and work in progress are valued at full production cost. Impairments are carried out in case of foreseeable<br />
obsolescence.<br />
Foreign currency translation<br />
Foreign currency transactions are translated using the transaction date exchange rates. Balance sheet items are<br />
translated using the year end exchange rates.<br />
Property, plant and equipment<br />
Property, plant and equipment is capitalized and depreciated over the estimated useful economic life if the assets<br />
useful life is over 3 years and the cost price is over NOK 15.000,-. Maintenance costs are expensed as incurred,<br />
whereas improvements and upgrading are added to the acquisition cost and depreciated with the asset.<br />
Pensions<br />
All the employees in the company are secured in a pension plan which is funded in an insurance company. Pension<br />
costs and pension liabilities are estimated and recognised on a straight line basis considering final salary. Pension<br />
funds are recognised at fair value and deducted from net pension liabilities in the balance sheet. This years pension<br />
cost (gross pensions cost after deduction of estimated profit from pension assets) is included in payroll expenses.<br />
The pension cost (gross) comprises of net value of the years earnings and interest of last years pension obligation.<br />
Social security costs are included in the figures.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Comrod AS<br />
Annual Accounts 2005<br />
Notes<br />
Note 1 Accounting principles continued<br />
Financial instruments<br />
In addition to traditional financial instruments as trade receivables, accounts payable and interest-bearing liabilities,<br />
the company has entered into forward exchange contracts. Gains or losses from the forward exchange contracts<br />
classified as hedging is accrued for and offset against the item which is hedged. Forward exchange contracts which<br />
not meet the hedging criteria are measured at fair value and recognised in the balance sheet. Gains or losses is<br />
recognised as financial income or financial expenses.<br />
Income tax<br />
The tax expense in the profit and loss account consists of both tax payable for the accounting period and changes in<br />
deferred tax. Deferred tax is calculated as 28 percent of temporary differences between accounting profit and<br />
taxable profit considering the tax effect of former operating losses. Temporary differences, both positive and<br />
negative, are offset within the same period. Deferred tax assets are recorded in the balance sheet when it is more<br />
likely than not that the tax assets will be utilized.<br />
Change of accounting principles<br />
a) Pensions<br />
Until 2004 actuarial gains and losses (if they exceeded 10% of the highest of total pension assets or liabilities<br />
(corridor)) were amortized over the remaining average period for accumulated actuarial gains or losses. From 2005<br />
actuarial gains or losses is recognised directly in equity (net of tax). Accumulated actuarial gains from former<br />
periods (net of tax) at a total of NOK 143 850 has reduced the equity in 2005.<br />
Effective from 2005 pension obligations is treated in accordance with NRS 6 (correspond with IAS 19 "Employee<br />
Benefits"). The effect of the transition NOK 2.241 418 (net of tax) is set of against equity.<br />
b) Financial derivatives<br />
Forward exchange contracts which did meet the hedging criteria were until 2004 not recognised until the transaction<br />
was realised, while only unrealized losses on other foreign currency transactions were recognised. From 2005 also<br />
unrealised gains on other exchange contracts is recognised. In 2005 gains (net of tax) of<br />
NOK 946 080 were recognised in the income statement.<br />
Forward exchange contracts which met the hedging criteria were until 2004 not recognised. From 2005 these<br />
forward exchange contracts are measured at fair value and recognised in the balance sheet. Revaluations relating to<br />
foreign currency transactions which meet the hedging criteria are recognised directly in equity until the object of the<br />
hedge transaction is realised, or the hedging is evaluated not to be effective. The value of unrealised gains was NOK<br />
5 781 265 (net of tax) at 31.12.2004<br />
The figures from former years are not restated and are not directly comparable.<br />
Comrod AS<br />
Annual Accounts 2005<br />
Note 2 Revenue<br />
Amounts in NOK 1000<br />
2 005 2004<br />
By business area<br />
Marine/civil 20 109 21 458<br />
Defence 89 450 85 279<br />
Total 109 559 106 737<br />
Geographical distribution<br />
Europe 69 574 88 983<br />
America 14 113 10 619<br />
Asia 5 895<br />
Middle East 17 343<br />
Other countries 2 634 7 135<br />
Total 109 559 106 737<br />
Revenue from other countries includes 34 countries all over the world.<br />
Note 3 Inventories<br />
2 005 2004<br />
Raw materials 8 717 000 8 314 000<br />
Work in progress 4 140 914 4 599 914<br />
Finished goods 3 342 251 4 533 000<br />
Total 16 200 165 17 446 914<br />
Note 4 Salaries / Number of employees / Benefits<br />
Payroll and related cost<br />
2 005 2 004<br />
Payroll 31 217 364 28 173 604<br />
Social security costs 4 599 340 4 187 630<br />
Pension costs 1 280 252 1 196 255<br />
Other employee related costs 913 245 596 890<br />
Payroll and related cost 38 010 201 34 154 379<br />
Average number of employees: 74 74<br />
Management remuneration Salary<br />
Other<br />
benefits<br />
Managing Director 1 390 708 167 867<br />
Board of Directors 30 000<br />
In addition to salary paid to Managing Director in 2005, an accrual for earned bonus of NOK 500 000,- are made.<br />
Included in salary to Managing Director for 2005, NOK 500 000,- is bonus earned in 2004.<br />
Audit<br />
Expensed audit fee for 2005 was NOK 131 650,-. In addition there has been other services of NOK 71 922,-.<br />
VAT is not included.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Comrod AS<br />
Annual Accounts 2005<br />
Note 5 Pensions and pension liabilities<br />
The company has a pension plan which covers a total of 74 persons. The scheme entitle its members to defined<br />
future benefits. These benefits are primarily dependent upon the number of years of employment, the salary level<br />
at the time of retirement and the size of defined benefit contributions from the government. The liabilities are<br />
funded through an insurance company.<br />
2005 2 004<br />
Net present value of benefits earned during<br />
the year (social security costs included) 1 078 954 962 014<br />
Interest cost on pension liabilities 530 501 474 216<br />
Actual return on plan assets -329 203 -302 613<br />
Effect of changes in estimates 0 62 638<br />
Net pension cost 1 280 252 1 196 255<br />
2005 2 004<br />
Accrued pension obligations 11 953 240 9 463 306<br />
Pension plan assets (at market value) -6 580 000 -4 896 991<br />
Net benefit obligations (social security costs included) 5 373 240 4 566 315<br />
Unrecognised effects of actuarial gains/ losses -1 737 761<br />
Net benefit obligations (social security costs included) 5 373 240 2 828 554<br />
Economic assumptions:<br />
Discount rate 4,50 % 6,00 %<br />
Expected increase in salaries 2,75 % 3,50 %<br />
Expected increase in pensions 2,75 % 3,00 %<br />
Expected increase in basis for calculating government<br />
contributions 2,75 % 3,00 %<br />
Expected return on plan assets 5,50 % 7,00 %<br />
The disposition to leave on AFP is estimated to: 40,00 % 40,00 %<br />
Note 6 Tangible assets<br />
Property, plant and equipment<br />
Land Machinery<br />
and<br />
equipment<br />
Fixtures and<br />
fittings<br />
Property<br />
and plant<br />
Total<br />
Acquisition cost at 01.01.05 1 056 055 17 359 533 6 697 102 15 709 644 40 822 334<br />
Purchased tangibles 0 2 297 247 1 126 602 681 715 4 105 564<br />
Acquisition cost 31.12.05 1 056 055 19 656 780 7 823 704 16 391 359 44 927 898<br />
Accumulated depreciation 01.01.05 0 10 875 490 5 941 673 4 708 464 21 525 627<br />
Accumulated depreciation 31.12.05 0 12 350 862 6 225 780 5 470 629 24 047 271<br />
Net carrying value at 31.12.05 1 056 055 7 305 918 1 597 924 10 920 731 20 880 628<br />
Depreciation for the year 0 1 475 372 284 107 762 165 2 521 644<br />
The useful economic life is estimated to be: 3 - 7 years 5 - 7 years 6 - 25 years<br />
Depreciation plan Linear Linear Linear<br />
Lease payments operating leases 91 291<br />
Comrod AS<br />
Annual Accounts 2005<br />
Note 7 Liabilities due more than five years after the end of the fiscal year<br />
2005 2 004<br />
Other long-term liabilities 0 6 231 152<br />
Note 8 Security and guarantees<br />
Debt secured by collateral 2005 2 004<br />
Short term liabilities to financial institutions 0 0<br />
Other long-term liabilities 0 5 142 855<br />
0 5 142 855<br />
Book value of assets used as security for the company’s<br />
and other group companies liabilities 53 198 714<br />
The company takes part in <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> credit facilities. According to this the company’s assets are used<br />
as security for the company’s and the other group companies liabilities to the groups financial institution.<br />
The terms established for the liabilities are based on the groups key ratios.<br />
Note 9 Intercompany balances with group companies<br />
All intercompany balances with group companies are specified in the balance sheet (receivables group companies<br />
and liabilities to group companies).<br />
Note 10 Income taxes<br />
The tax expense consists of: 2005 2 004<br />
Tax payable 7 102 480 7 032 592<br />
Changes in deferred tax 193 463 -83 407<br />
Total income tax expense 7 295 943 6 949 185<br />
Reconciliation tax expenses against Profit before taxes<br />
Total income tax expense 7 295 943 6 949 185<br />
28% of Profit before taxes 7 233 922 7 004 362<br />
Difference related to permanent differences 62 021 -55 177<br />
2005 2 004<br />
Current tax consists of:<br />
Profit before taxes 25 835 437 25 015 578<br />
Permanent differences 221 550 -197 032<br />
Changes in temporary differences -690 941 297 883<br />
Basis for current tax 25 366 046 25 116 429<br />
Tax 28% 7 102 480 7 032 592<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Comrod AS<br />
Annual Accounts 2005<br />
Current tax consists of:<br />
2 005 2 004<br />
Tax payable from this years profit 7 102 480 7 032 592<br />
Tax payable on group contribution -7 102 480 -7 032 592<br />
Tax payable in total 0 0<br />
Specification of the basis for deferred taxes<br />
Offsetting differences: 2 005 2 004<br />
Fixed assets 2 236 556 2 872 650<br />
Current assets -1 221 720 -886 650<br />
Pension liabilities, ex actuarial gain/losses -5 464 580 -5 797 784<br />
Other accruals -716 000 -1 110 000<br />
Taxable gain/losses carried forward 44 717 55 896<br />
Forward exchange contracts - Hedging 1 516 151 5 781 265<br />
Other forward exchange contracts 946 080 0<br />
Pension liabilities, accumulated actuarial gain/losses 91 350 -143 850<br />
Total -2 567 446 771 527<br />
Deferred tax / deferred tax asset 28% -718 886 216 027<br />
Deferred tax last year of NOK 216 027 differs compared with deferred tax asset in the Balance sheets figures.<br />
Se note above regarding change of accounting principles.<br />
Note 11 Equity<br />
Share<br />
capital<br />
Other paidin<br />
equity<br />
Reserve for<br />
valuation<br />
variances<br />
Other equity Total<br />
Equity 31.12.2004 1 500 000 2 200 000 5 319 590 9 019 590<br />
Change of accounting principles financial<br />
instruments 01.01.05 (net of tax) 4 162 511 4 162 511<br />
Change of accounting principles<br />
pensions 01.01.05 (net of tax) -2 241 418 -2 241 418<br />
Change in actuarial gain/losses -<br />
this year (net of tax) 169 337 169 337<br />
Change in financial instruments (net of tax) -3 070 882 -3 070 882<br />
Group contribution received 2 500 000<br />
This years profit 18 539 494 18 539 494<br />
Group contribution (net of tax) -18 263 520 -18 263 520<br />
Equity 31.12.2005 1 500 000 4 700 000 1 091 629 3 523 483 10 815 112<br />
Comrod AS<br />
Annual Accounts 2005<br />
Note 12 Equity and shareholder information<br />
The share capital in Comrod AS as at 31.12.2005 consists of the following classes of shares:<br />
Number of<br />
shares Nominal value Book value<br />
Class A shares 1500 1000 1 500 000<br />
Shareholders:<br />
Class A-shares Proportion of<br />
shares<br />
Proportion of<br />
votes<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> 1500 100,00 % 100 %<br />
Tau 31. desember 2005<br />
6. februar 2006<br />
The Board of Comrod AS<br />
Tore Johan Fjell Erik Espeset Sigurd Håbakk<br />
Chairman of the Board<br />
(sign.) (sign.) (sign.)<br />
Solfrid Abrahamsen Niklas Hermansson<br />
Managing Director<br />
(sign.) (sign.)<br />
112
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
113
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
APPENDIX 3: 3 RD QUARTER REPORT FOR 2006 FOR COMROD AS<br />
INTERIM REPORT 3rd QUARTER 2006 – COMROD AS GROUP<br />
Introduction<br />
This interim report has been compiled according to the accounting policies applied by the<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> Group in its annual report for 2005 and according to IAS 34, Interim Financial<br />
Reporting. On 15 September 2006 Lerc S.A. was formally taken over by <strong>Hexagon</strong>’s subsidiary<br />
Comrod AS. The figures from Lerc have been incorporated with effect from medio September, a<br />
delay of two months with regard to what was communicated in the previous interim report for the<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> Group.<br />
Comrod achieved a satisfactory turnover, but continued to report a lower profit than usual, due to<br />
the postponement of deliveries to the defence market and a product mix shift towards products<br />
with lower margins in the commercial market.<br />
Turnover and market<br />
The companies achieved a turnover of NOK 34.7 (28.5) million in the 3rd quarter. The<br />
improvement is primarily due to increased activity in the commercial maritime segment. Comrod<br />
is seeing high order levels in the market for defence communication. Some of these orders are<br />
to be delivered in the fourth quarter, but the lion’s share in 2007 and 2008. The company will<br />
have lower turnover in the antennas and defence markets this year compared with the two<br />
previous years. Power is expected to achieve a turnover in the 4th quarter as assumed when it<br />
was acquired. Lerc’s 3rd quarter turnover is as expected. For the 4th quarter a high turnover is<br />
expected owing to normal seasonal fluctuations. Lerc’s order levels are good.<br />
Production and margins<br />
This year Comrod has seen growth in civilian products, which have somewhat lower margins.<br />
Comrod has also experienced increased costs associated with the implementation of a new ERP<br />
system. It is expected that the profit margin for 2006 will be somewhat lower than in 2005, but<br />
that the margin will improve substantially in the fourth quarter, when some substantial defence<br />
orders will be delivered. Lerc’s margins are somewhat lower than Comrod’s, owing to a different<br />
product mix. Satisfactory margins for Lerc are expected in the 4th quarter.<br />
Costs and profit<br />
The group reported an operating profit of NOK 4,1 (7.5) million in the 3rd quarter. A good<br />
operating profit is expected for the fourth quarter, and the business area as a whole will achieve<br />
a result for all of 2006 that is on par with 2005. “<br />
Demerger<br />
The Board of Comrod has recommended a demerger of the Comrod Group from <strong>Hexagon</strong>. An<br />
application to list the new company with effect from the demerger date is in preparation. The<br />
intention of the <strong>Hexagon</strong> Group is to retain an approximately 25 % stake through the con<strong>version</strong><br />
of intra-group balances to shares. Comrod’s listing is expected to take effect in the 1st quarter of<br />
2007. Alternatives to demerging Comrod will be considered if the Board finds that this can<br />
increase total shareholder value.<br />
Tau, 21 st December 2006<br />
Board of Directors ”<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Comrod AS - Income Statement 3. Quarter 2006<br />
(All figures in NOK 1.000)<br />
PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT 30.09.2006 3Q 2006 30.09.2005 3Q 2005 31.12.2005<br />
Operating revenues 83 676 34 716 77 523 28 502 109 559<br />
Cost of materials incl. changes in WIP 27 545 13 055 21 528 8 686 30 568<br />
Payroll and social security expenses 31 200 10 078 27 374 8 717 38 132<br />
Other operating expenses 12 611 5 695 9 493 2 979 13 995<br />
Operating profit before depreciation (EBITDA) 12 320 5 888 19 128 8 120 26 864<br />
Depreciation 3 856 1 784 1 950 650 2 522<br />
Operating profit (EBIT) 8 464 4 104 17 178 7 470 24 342<br />
Net financial items -4 389 -2 472 -1 210 -437 1 372<br />
Profit/loss before tax 4 075 1 631 15 968 7 033 25 714<br />
Taxes -1 349 -633 -4 491 -1 977 -7 296<br />
Profit/loss after tax 2 726 998 11 476 5 056 18 418<br />
BALANCE SHEET<br />
Intangible assets 64 451 0 0<br />
Tangible fixed assets 57 686 19 496 20 881<br />
Inventories 46 536 19 316 16 200<br />
Receivables <strong>Hexagon</strong>-Group 32 521 10 974 13 322<br />
Other receivables 46 092 29 498 43 107<br />
Bank deposits and cash 1 797 1 101 1 678<br />
Total assets 249 083 80 385 95 188<br />
Paid-in capital 6 496 6 300 6 350<br />
Other equity 5 659 15 599 20 229<br />
Provisions 10 615 10 420 11 756<br />
Interest-bearing long-term liabilities 1 920 1 820 0<br />
Interest-bearing liabilities <strong>Hexagon</strong>-Group 180 041 35 311 35 475<br />
Interest-bearing short-term liabilities 3 879 547 545<br />
Other current liabilities 40 473 10 388 20 833<br />
Total liabilities and equity 249 083 80 385 95 188<br />
CASH FLOW STATEMENT<br />
Profit before tax 4 075 15 968 25 714<br />
Depreciation/amortisation 3 856 1 950 2 522<br />
Change in net working capital -4 020 -12 328 -18 291<br />
Net cash flow from operating activities 3 911 5 590 9 945<br />
Net cash flow from investing activities -122 526 -2 150 -4 106<br />
Net cash flow from financing activities 117 370 -3 864 -5 686<br />
Net change in cash and cash equivalents -1 245 -424 153<br />
Cash and cash equivalents at start of period 1 678 1 525 1 525<br />
Cash from acquisition 1 364 0 0<br />
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period 1 797 1 101 1 678<br />
EQUITY RECONCILIATION<br />
Equity at start of period 26 579 29 024 29 024<br />
Profit/loss in period 2 726 11 476 18 418<br />
Forward exchange contracts -965 -590 -3 071<br />
Share based payment / Actuarial gain and losses -942 72 291<br />
Exchange rate difference 521 0 0<br />
Approved/received group contributions from last year -15 764 -18 084 -18 084<br />
Equity at end of period 12 155 21 899 26 579<br />
KEY FIGURES<br />
Equity ratio 4,9 % 27,2 % 27,9 %<br />
Liquidity ratio I 1,82 1,32 1,31<br />
Return on equity (annualised) 18,8 % 60,1 % 66,2 %<br />
Total return (annualised) 5,9 % 29,2 % 32,0 %<br />
Earnings per share 1,82 7,65 12,28<br />
Diluted earnings per share 1,82 7,65 12,28<br />
Cash flow from operations per share 2,61 3,73 6,63<br />
Equity per share 8,10 14,60 17,72<br />
Net interest-bearing liabilities 185 840 37 678 36 020<br />
Information on Business Areas: 30.09.2006 3Q 2006 30.09.2005 3Q 2005 31.12.2005<br />
Comrod Antennas:<br />
Operating income 64 435 20 951 77 523 28 502 109 559<br />
Operating profit before depreciation (EBITDA) 9 995 4 373 19 128 8 120 26 864<br />
Operating profit (EBIT) 7 709 3 595 17 178 7 470 24 342<br />
Comrod Power supplies:<br />
Operating income 8 847 3 371<br />
Operating profit before depreciation (EBITDA) 1 574 652<br />
Operating profit (EBIT) 576 217<br />
Lerc Masts and Industrial products :<br />
Operating income 10 394 10 394<br />
Operating profit before depreciation (EBITDA) 751 864<br />
Operating profit (EBIT) 179 292<br />
Comrod AS Group - Notes to the interim financial statements 3. Quarter 2006<br />
Note 1 Reporting entity<br />
Comrod AS is a company domiciled in Norway. The interim financial statements for the third quarter 2006 ended<br />
30. September comprise Comrod AS and its subsidiaries (together referred to as the “Group”.)<br />
Note 2 Significant accounting principles and statement of compliance<br />
Comrod AS Group has not published any audited stand-alone financial statements prepared in accordance with<br />
International Financial Reporting Standards. As part of the <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> Group, International Financial<br />
Reporting Standards has been applied in the preparation of <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> consolidated financial<br />
statements for 2005.<br />
The accounting policies applied by Comrod AS Group in these interim financial statements are the same as those applied by<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> Group for the year ended 31 December 2005 and that will be applied in the annual group financial<br />
statements for 2006.<br />
These interim financial statements have been prepared in accordance with international Financial Reporting Standards<br />
(IFRS) IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting. These statements do not include all of the information required for full annual<br />
financial statements, and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> Group for the year ended 31 December 2005 and section 7.1 in the Prospectus.<br />
Note 3 Estimates<br />
The preparation of interim financial statements requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that<br />
affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expense. Actual<br />
results may differ from these estimates.<br />
The significant judgments made by management in preparing these interim financial statements in applying the Group’s<br />
accounting policies and the key sources of estimation uncertainty were the same as those that applied to the consolidated<br />
financial statements of <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> Group for the year ended 31 December 2005 and<br />
section 7.1 in the Prospectus.<br />
Note 4 Business Combinations<br />
(All figures in 1.000)<br />
Acquisition of Fidulerc SA with the wholly-owned subsidiary Lerc SA.<br />
As of 29 June 2006 Comrod AS made an agreement with ECI <strong>Composites</strong> Inc to buy 100% of the shares<br />
in Fidulerc SA. Total purchase price including direct costs relating to the acquisition amount to EUR 11 589.<br />
Comrod AS was approved by the French authorities as the new owner of Fidulerc SA in the middle of September 2006.<br />
Consolidation and allocation of surplus value have been taken into the accounts from the same time.<br />
Details of net assets acquired and goodwill are as follows:<br />
Purchase consideration:<br />
Cash paid 92 421<br />
Direct costs relating to the acquisition 1212<br />
Total consideration, cash only 93 633<br />
The assets and liabilities arising from the acquisition are as<br />
follows:<br />
Fidulerc 15.09.06<br />
Fair value<br />
adjustments<br />
Recognised<br />
values<br />
Goodwill 29 230 29 230<br />
Customer relationship 11 507 11 507<br />
Tangible assets 24 337 10 800 35 137<br />
Inventories 25 757 25 757<br />
Receivables 24 151 24 151<br />
Bank deposits and cash 701 701<br />
Total assets acquierd 74 946 51 537 126 483<br />
Non-current liabilities 4 001 4 001<br />
Deferred tax (2 239) 3 596 1 358<br />
Current liabilities 27 491 27 491<br />
Net assets acquired 45 692 47 941 93 633<br />
The figures above are not finalized and may be changed in subsequent periods.<br />
115
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Comrod AS Group - Notes to the interim financial statements 3. Quarter 2006<br />
Note 4 continued<br />
Pro forma income statement as if the acquisition had taken place 01.01.2006:<br />
Pro forma<br />
Income statement 30.09.2006<br />
Operating revenue 137 812<br />
Cost of materials incl. changes in WIP 46 590<br />
Payroll and social security expenses 40 010<br />
Other operating expenses 34 342<br />
Operating profit before depreciation (EBITDA) 16 869<br />
Depreciation 7 991<br />
Operating profit (EBIT) 8 878<br />
Net financial items -8 946<br />
Profit/loss before tax -68<br />
Taxes -491<br />
Profit/loss after tax -558<br />
Acquisition of Power Division (1. Quarter 2006).<br />
On 28. February 2006, Comrod AS entered into an agreement to purchase from Eltek Energy <strong>ASA</strong> their department<br />
of telecom power supplies for the defence market. The purchase price was NOK 25 million.<br />
The date of transfer was 1. March 2006.<br />
Details of net assets acquired and goodwill are as follows:<br />
Purchase consideration:<br />
Total consideration, cash only 25 000<br />
The assets and liabilities arising from the acquisition are as<br />
follows:<br />
Recognized values<br />
Goodwill 9 000<br />
Other Intangible assets 15 000<br />
Tangible assets 489<br />
Inventories 511<br />
Total assets acquired 25 000<br />
Liabilities 0<br />
Net assets acquired 25 000<br />
The figures above are not finalized and may be changed in subsequent periods.<br />
It is not possible to give reliable information of revenue and profit and loss for the combined entity as if the acquisition of the<br />
Power Division was made 1. January 2006. This is due to the fact that Comrod AS purchased only a division of Eltek<br />
Energy <strong>ASA</strong> which did not have separate reliable financial information for this division’s separate revenues,costs and profit and loss.<br />
Comrod AS Group - Notes to the interim financial statements 3. Quarter 2006<br />
Note 5 Transition from NGAAP to IFRS<br />
Introduction<br />
This interim report is prepared in accordance with IAS 34 and is the company´s first IFRS report. The accounting<br />
principles refered in note 2 has been applied in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements as of 30<br />
September 2006, the restatement of the figures for 2004, 2005 and 2006 and the calculation of IFRS opening<br />
balances at 1 January 2004, which is the Group’s date of transition from NGAAP to IFRS.<br />
Preparation of IFRS opening balances has involved some adjustments to previous accounting figures prepared under<br />
NGAAP. The effect of the transition from NGAAP to IFRS on the Group’s financial statements is detailed below.<br />
Transition from NGAAP to IFRS<br />
IFRS 1, First-time adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards has been adopted in preparing Comrod AS<br />
Group´s opening balance sheet at 1 January 2004. For Comrod AS Group the most important effects of the transition<br />
are described below. Please refer to corresponding notes below.<br />
1. Pensions<br />
All accumulated, unrecognised actuarial gains/losses relating to retirement benefit obligation at 1 January 2004 have<br />
been recognised as an equity adjustment. Changed assumptions for calculation of future pension costs under IFRS<br />
involve an increase in the calculated pension expense for 2004.<br />
2. Financial derivatives<br />
Under NGAAP, foreign currency instruments (forwards) which met the hedging criteria were not recognised, while only<br />
unrealised losses on other foreign currency transactions were recognised. Under IFRS, all foreign currency<br />
transactions are measured at fair value and recognised in the balance sheet. Fair value changes relating to foreign<br />
currency transactions which meet the hedging criteria are recognised directly in equity until the object of the hedge<br />
transaction is realised, or the hedging is evaluated not to be effective. Both IAS 32 and IAS 39 have been<br />
implemented with effect from 1 January 2004.<br />
3. Reclassification of long-term debt<br />
Under IFRS the first year instalment of long-term debt is classified as short-term debt.<br />
4. Dividends and Group Contributions<br />
Dividends and Group Contributions are under IFRS not recognised until the entity has an obligation to pay the<br />
dividend or group contribution, which generally is not until these are approved by the General Assembly. Under<br />
NGAAP dividends and group contributions were provided for at the balance sheet date in the year prior to the<br />
approval of the general assembly.<br />
5. Deferred tax<br />
Deferred tax assets and liabilities will be affected by the transition to IFRS due to changes in other balance sheet<br />
values as described in this report.<br />
6. Amortization of goodwill<br />
Amortization of goodwill is not permitted under IFRS. Instead, goodwill is subject to impairment review, both annually<br />
and when there are indications that the carrying value may not be recoverable.<br />
There has been no goodwill recognised in Comrod AS Group financial statements until the acquisitions performed in<br />
2006, consequently this difference will appear in the 2006 financial statements, only.<br />
7. Gains on sale of property, plant & equipment<br />
Under IFRS, gains on sale of property, plant and equipment is classified as a cost reduction.<br />
8. Share-based payment transactions<br />
Under NGAAP Share-based payment transactions has not, until the year 2005, been recognised in the Income<br />
Statement. In accordance with IFRS 2, the fair value of all options granted after 7.11.02 is recognised over the vesting<br />
period. The fair value per option is calculated using an option pricing model (Black & Scholes). Costs are recognised<br />
in profit and loss as payroll expenses together with a corresponding increase in other paid-in capital.<br />
116
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Comrod AS - Notes to the interim financial statements 3. Quarter 2006<br />
Note 5 Transition from NGAAP to IFRS continued<br />
Balance sheet 1 January 2004, transition from NGAAP to IFRS<br />
(in NOK 1000)<br />
31.12.2003 01.01.2004 01.01.2004<br />
Notes NGAAP IFRS adj. IFRS<br />
ASSETS<br />
Deferred tax asset 5 448 -447 0<br />
Goodwill and other intagibles 0 0 0<br />
Total intangible assets 448 -447 0<br />
Total tangible assets 16 964 0 16 964<br />
Total non current assets 17 412 -447 16 964<br />
Inventories 16 325 0 16 325<br />
Accounts receivable 14 273 0 14 273<br />
Forward exchange contracts 2 0 5 340 5 340<br />
Receivable group company 11 328 0 11 328<br />
Other receivables 3 332 0 3 332<br />
Bank deposits and cash 1 173 0 1 173<br />
Total current assets 46 431 5 340 51 771<br />
Total assets 63 843 4 893 68 736<br />
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES<br />
Paid in capital 3 700 0 3 700<br />
Other equity 1, 2, 4, 5 5 337 8 878 14 215<br />
Total equity 9 037 8 878 17 915<br />
Non-current liabilities<br />
Pension obligations 1 2 430 2 832 5 262<br />
Deferred tax 5 0 255 255<br />
Other long-term debt 3 7 323 -1 147 6 176<br />
Total non-current liabilities 9 753 1 940 11 693<br />
Liabilities to financial 3 0 1 147 1 147<br />
Accounts payable 12 504 0 12 504<br />
Public duties payable 2 344 0 2 344<br />
Current liabilities to group 4 24 963 -7 072 17 891<br />
Other current liabilities 5 242 0 5 242<br />
Total current liabilities 45 053 -5 925 39 128<br />
Total liabilities 54 806 -3 985 50 821<br />
Total equity and liabilities 63 843 4 893 68 736<br />
Balance sheet, NGAAP versus IFRS<br />
(in NOK 1000) 31.12.2004 31.12.2004 31.12.2004<br />
Notes NGAAP IFRS adj. IFRS<br />
ASSETS<br />
Deferred tax asset 5 531 -531 0<br />
Goodwill and other intagibles 0 0 0<br />
Total intangible assets 531 -531 0<br />
Total tangible assets 19 296 0 19 296<br />
Total non current assets 19 827 -531 19 296<br />
Inventories 17447 0 17 447<br />
Accounts receivable 16455 0 16 455<br />
Forward exchange contracts 2 0 5 781 5 781<br />
Receivable group company 10314 0 10 314<br />
Other receivables 2699 0 2 699<br />
Bank deposits and cash 1525 0 1 525<br />
Total current assets 48 441 5 781 54 222<br />
Total assets 68 268 5 250 73 518<br />
Comrod AS - Notes to the interim financial statements 3. Quarter 2006<br />
Note 5 Transition from NGAAP to IFRS continued<br />
(in NOK 1000)<br />
31.12.2004 31.12.2004 31.12.2004<br />
Notes NGAAP IFRS adj. IFRS<br />
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES<br />
Paid in capital 3 700 0 3 700<br />
Other equity 1, 2, 4, 5 5 319 20 005 25 324<br />
Total equity 9 019 20 005 29 024<br />
Pension obligations 1 2 829 3 113 5 942<br />
Deferred tax 5 7 249 7 249<br />
Other long-term debt 3 6 231 -1 147 5 084<br />
Total non-current liabilities 9 060 9 214 18 274<br />
Liabilities to financial institutions 3 1 147 1 147<br />
Accounts payable 5 619 0 5 619<br />
Public duties payable 2 887 0 2 887<br />
Current liabilities to group companies 4 34 939 -25 116 9 823<br />
Other current liabilities 6 745 0 6 745<br />
Total current liabilities 50 189 -23 969 26 220<br />
Total liabilities 59 249 -14 755 44 494<br />
Total equity and liabilities 68 268 5 250 73 518<br />
(in NOK 1000) 30.09.2005 30.09.2005 30.09.2005<br />
Notes NGAAP IFRS adj. IFRS<br />
ASSETS<br />
Deferred tax asset 5 -4 368 4 368 0<br />
Goodwill and other intagibles 0 0 0<br />
Total intangible assets -4 368 4 368 0<br />
Total tangible assets 19 496 0 19 496<br />
Total non current assets 15 128 4 368 19 496<br />
Inventories 19316 0 19 316<br />
Accounts receivable 24141 0 24 141<br />
Forward exchange contracts 2 0 3505 3 505<br />
Receivable group company 10974 0 10 974<br />
Other receivables 1852 0 1 852<br />
Bank deposits and cash 1101 0 1 101<br />
Total current assets 57 384 3 505 60 889<br />
Total assets 72 512 7 873 80 385<br />
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES<br />
Paid in capital 3 700 0 3 700<br />
Other equity 17 917 282 18 199<br />
Total equity 21 617 282 21 899<br />
Pension obligations 1 2 829 3 113 5 942<br />
Deferred tax 5 4 478 4 478<br />
Other long-term debt 1 820 0 1 820<br />
Total non-current liabilities 4 649 7 591 12 240<br />
Liabilities to financial institutions 3 547 547<br />
Accounts payable 4171 0 4 171<br />
Public duties payable 2128 0 2 128<br />
Current liabilities to group companies 35311 0 35 311<br />
Other current liabilities 3 4636 -547 4 089<br />
Total current liabilities 46 246 0 46 246<br />
Total liabilities 50 895 7 591 58 486<br />
Total equity and liabilities 72 512 7 873 80 385<br />
117
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Comrod AS - Notes to the interim financial statements 3. Quarter 2006<br />
Note 5 Transition from NGAAP to IFRS continued<br />
(in NOK 1000)<br />
31.12.2005 31.12.2005 31.12.2005<br />
Notes NGAAP IFRS adj. IFRS<br />
ASSETS<br />
Deferred tax asset 5 719 -719 0<br />
Goodwill and other intagibles 0 0 0<br />
Total intangible assets 719 -719 0<br />
Total tangible assets 20 881 0 20 881<br />
Total non current assets 21 600 -719 20 881<br />
Inventories 16 200 0 16 200<br />
Accounts receivable 36 200 0 36 200<br />
Forward exchange contracts 2 462 0 2 462<br />
Receivable group company 4 15 822 -2 500 13 322<br />
Other receivables 4 445 0 4 445<br />
Bank deposits and cash 1 678 0 1 678<br />
Total current assets 76 807 -2 500 74 307<br />
Total assets 98 407 -3 219 95 188<br />
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES<br />
Paid in capital 4 7 292 -2 500 4 792<br />
Other equity 4 3 523 18 264 21 787<br />
Total equity 10 815 15 764 26 579<br />
Non-current liabilities<br />
Pension obligations 5 373 0 5 373<br />
Deferred tax 5 6 383 6 383<br />
Total non-current liabilities 5 373 6 383 11 756<br />
Liabilities to financial 3 545 545<br />
Accounts payable 6 606 0 6 606<br />
Public duties payable 3 193 0 3 193<br />
Current liabilities to group 4 60 841 -25 366 35 475<br />
Other current liabilities 3 11 579 -545 11 034<br />
Total current liabilities 82 219 -25 366 56 853<br />
Total liabilities 87 592 -18 983 68 609<br />
Total equity and liabilities 98 407 -3 219 95 188<br />
(in NOK 1000) 30.09.2006 30.09.2006 30.09.2006<br />
NGAAP IFRS adj. IFRS<br />
ASSETS<br />
Deferred tax asset 0 0 0<br />
Goodwill and other intagibles 6 63 926 525 64 451<br />
Total intangible assets 63 926 525 64 451<br />
Total tangible assets 57 686 0 57 686<br />
Total non current assets 121 612 525 122 137<br />
Inventories 46 536 0 46 536<br />
Accounts receivable 43 031 0 43 031<br />
Forward exchange contracts 380 0 380<br />
Receivable group company 32 522 0 32 522<br />
Other receivables 2 680 0 2 680<br />
Bank deposits and cash 1 796 0 1 796<br />
Total current assets 126 946 0 126 946<br />
Total assets 248 558 525 249 083<br />
Comrod AS - Notes to the interim financial statements 3. Quarter 2006<br />
Note 5 Transition from NGAAP to IFRS continued<br />
(in NOK 1000)<br />
30.09.2006 30.09.2006 30.09.2006<br />
Notes NGAAP IFRS adj. IFRS<br />
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES<br />
Paid in capital 6 200 0 6 200<br />
Other equity 5,6 5 577 378 5 956<br />
Total equity 11 777 378 12 155<br />
Pension obligations 9 936 0 9 936<br />
Deferred tax 5 532 147 679<br />
Other long-term debt 156 595 0 156 595<br />
Total non-current liabilities 167 063 147 167 210<br />
Liabilities to financial institutions 3 879 0 3 879<br />
Accounts payable 15 965 0 15 965<br />
Public duties payable 5 782 0 5 782<br />
Current liabilities to group companies 25 366 0 25 366<br />
Other current liabilities 18 725 0 18 725<br />
Total current liabilities 69 717 0 69 717<br />
Total liabilities 236 781 147 236 927<br />
Total equity and liabilities 248 558 525 249 083<br />
Income statement, NGAAP versus IFRS<br />
(in NOK 1000)<br />
2004<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
2004<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
2004<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
Notes NGAAP IFRS adj. IFRS<br />
Operating revenues 7 106 772 -35 106 737<br />
Change in Work In Progress -658 0 -658<br />
Cost of materials 31 156 0 31 156<br />
Payroll and social security expenses 1,8 34 154 165 34 319<br />
Depreciation 1 857 0 1 857<br />
Other operating expenses 7 13 388 -35 13 353<br />
Total operating expenses 79 897 130 80 027<br />
Operating profit/loss 26 875 -165 26 710<br />
Interest received 135 0 135<br />
Other financial income 2 1 212 161 1 373<br />
Other interest paid -1 143 0 -1 143<br />
Other financial expenses -2 064 0 -2 064<br />
Net financial income/expenses -1 860 161 -1 699<br />
Profit before tax 25 015 -4 25 011<br />
Taxes 5 6 949 7 6 956<br />
Profit for the year 18 066 -11 18 055<br />
118
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Comrod AS - Notes to the interim financial statements 3. Quarter 2006<br />
Note 5 Transition from NGAAP to IFRS continued<br />
(in NOK 1000)<br />
2005<br />
01.01-30.09<br />
2005<br />
01.01-30.09<br />
2005<br />
01.01-30.09<br />
Notes NGAAP IFRS adj. IFRS<br />
Operating revenues 77 523 0 77 523<br />
Change in Work In Progress -785 0 -785<br />
Cost of materials 22 313 0 22 313<br />
Payroll and social security expenses 8 27 302 72 27 374<br />
Depreciation 1 950 0 1 950<br />
Other operating expenses 9 493 0 9 493<br />
Total operating expenses 60 273 72 60 345<br />
Operating profit/loss 17 250 -72 17 178<br />
Interest received 2 0 2<br />
Other financial income 2 1 594 -1 456 138<br />
Other interest paid -861 0 -861<br />
Other financial expenses -489 0 -489<br />
Net financial income/expenses 246 -1 456 -1 210<br />
Profit before tax 17 496 -1 529 15 967<br />
Taxes 5 4 899 -408 4 491<br />
Profit for the year 12 597 -1 121 11 476<br />
(in NOK 1000)<br />
2005<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
2005<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
2005<br />
01.01-31.12<br />
Notes NGAAP IFRS adj. IFRS<br />
Operating revenues 109 559 0 109 559<br />
Change in Work In Progress 1 650 1 650<br />
Cost of materials 28 918 0 28 918<br />
Payroll and social security expenses 8 38 010 122 38 132<br />
Depreciation 2 522 0 2 522<br />
Other operating expenses 13 995 0 13 995<br />
Total operating expenses 85 095 122 85 217<br />
Operating profit/loss 24 464 -122 24 342<br />
Interest received 136 0 136<br />
Other financial income 2 982 0 2 982<br />
Other interest paid -1286 0 -1 286<br />
Other financial expenses -460 0 -460<br />
Net financial income/expenses 1 372 0 1 372<br />
Profit before tax 25 836 -122 25 714<br />
Taxes 7296 0 7 296<br />
Profit for the year 18 540 -122 18 418<br />
Comrod AS - Notes to the interim financial statements 3. Quarter 2006<br />
Note 5 Transition from NGAAP to IFRS continued<br />
(in NOK 1000)<br />
2006<br />
01.01-30.09<br />
2006<br />
01.01-30.09<br />
2006<br />
01.01-30.09<br />
Notes NGAAP IFRS adj. IFRS<br />
Operating revenues 83 676 0 83 676<br />
Change in Work In Progress -1 309 0 -1 309<br />
Cost of materials 28 854 0 28 854<br />
Payroll and social security expenses 31 200 0 31 200<br />
Depreciation 6 4 381 -525 3 856<br />
Other operating expenses 12 611 0 12 611<br />
Total operating expenses 75 737 -525 75 212<br />
Operating profit/loss 7 939 525 8 464<br />
Interest received 223 0 223<br />
Other financial income 1 1<br />
Other interest paid -3 578 0 -3 578<br />
Other financial expenses -1 035 0 -1 035<br />
Net financial income/expenses -4 389 0 -4 389<br />
Profit before tax 3 550 525 4 075<br />
Taxes 5 1 202 147 1 349<br />
Profit for the year 2 348 378 2 726<br />
Equity, NGAAP versus IFRS<br />
(in NOK 1 000) NGAAP IFRS<br />
Equity at 31.12.03 NGAAP 9 037 9 037<br />
Effects on transition from NGAAP to IFRS on other equity:<br />
Forward exchange contracts 3 845<br />
Increase in pension liability -2 039<br />
Reversed provision for group contribution 31.12.2003 7 072<br />
Equity at 01.01.04 9 037 17 915<br />
Effects on transition from NGAAP to IFRS :<br />
Profit 2004 according to NGAAP/IFRS 18 066 18 055<br />
Provision for group contribution 31.12.2004 -18 084<br />
Approved group contribution 31.12.2003 -7 072<br />
Actuarial gains and losses -104<br />
Share based payment 28<br />
Forward exchange contracts 202<br />
Equity at 31.12.04 9 019 29 024<br />
Profit 2005 according to NGAAP/IFRS 18 540 18 418<br />
Change of accounting principles 1.1.2005 1 921<br />
Provision for group contribution 31.12.2004 -18 264<br />
Received group contribtion 31.12.2004 2 500<br />
Share based payment 122<br />
Actuarial gains and losses 169 169<br />
Forward exchange contracts -3 071 -3 071<br />
Approved group contribution 31.12.2004 -18 084<br />
Equity at 31.12.05 10 815 26 579<br />
Profit as of 30.09.06 according to NGAAP/IFRS 2 348 2 726<br />
Forward exchange contracts -965 -965<br />
Share based payment 146 146<br />
Actuarial gains and losses -1 088 -1 088<br />
Exchange rate difference 1 802 1 802<br />
Exchange rate difference Net investment -1 281 -1 281<br />
Approved group contribution 31.12.2005 -18 264<br />
Received group contribtion 31.12.2005 2 500<br />
Equity at 30.09.06 11 777 12 155<br />
119
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
APPENDIX 4: AUDITOR STATEMENT REGARDING LIMITED REVIEW<br />
OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE 3RD QUARTER OF 2006<br />
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APPENDIX 5: AUDITOR REPORT REGARDING THE PRO FORMA<br />
FINANCIAL INFORMATION<br />
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APPENDIX 6: FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2006 FOR COMROD<br />
COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> INCLUDING AUDITOR STATEMENT<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Financial Statements 2006<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Income Statement for the period 19 September to 31 December<br />
(NOK)<br />
Note 2006<br />
Operating income<br />
Sales revenue 0<br />
Total operating income 0<br />
Operating expenses<br />
Other operating expenses 6,10 0<br />
Total operating expenses 0<br />
Operating profit/loss 0<br />
Finance income and expense<br />
Interest income 526<br />
Net financial items 526<br />
Profit/loss before tax 526<br />
Tax expense 4 147<br />
Profit/loss for the year 379<br />
Earnings per share 5 0,00<br />
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Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Cash flow statement<br />
(NOK)<br />
Note 2006<br />
Cash flow from operating activities<br />
Profit before tax (interest income) 526<br />
Net cash flow from operating activities 526<br />
Cash flow from investing activities<br />
Investing activities 0<br />
Net cash flow from investing activities 0<br />
Cash flow from financing activities<br />
New share capital 8,9 1 000 000<br />
Net cash flow from financing activities 1 000 000<br />
Net change in cash & cash equivalents 1 000 526<br />
Cash & cash equivalents at beginning of period 0<br />
Cash & cash equivalents at end of period 7 1 000 526<br />
Restricted funds included in cash & cash equivalents 7 0<br />
Statement of changes in equity<br />
Recognised income and expense<br />
(NOK ) 2 006<br />
Net Profit/lossrecognised directly in equity 0<br />
Net profit/loss recognised directly in equity 0<br />
New share capital 19.09.2006 8,9 1 000 000<br />
Profit/loss for the period 379<br />
Total changes in equity for the period 1 000 379<br />
123
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Financial Statements 2006<br />
NOTE 1 GENERAL INFORMATION<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> is a public limited company with its registered office in Norway. The<br />
company’s head office is at Fiskåvegen 1, 4120 Tau, Norway.<br />
The board of directors authorised the financial statements for publication on 11. January 2007.<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> was incorporated as a wholly owned subsidiary of <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong><br />
on 19 September 2006 for the purpose of acting as the transferee company in a Demerger of the<br />
Communication Business of <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>. Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> has not had, and will<br />
not have, any operational activity prior to the Completion Date of the Demerger. The expected date for final<br />
approval of the Demerger is 17 January 2007. Also see note 11.<br />
NOTE 2 ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES<br />
Basis for preparation<br />
The following financial statements for Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> are prepared in accordance with the<br />
international reporting standards published by the International Accounting Standards Board, as adopted<br />
by the European Union (EU). Since the company was incorporated in 2006 there are no comparative<br />
figures for 2005.The measurement basis used is historical cost.<br />
Accounting principles and disclosure requirements deriving from the following standards are not adopted<br />
as per 31 December 2006:<br />
- Amendment to IAS 1 “Presentation of Financial Statements”. The amendment is effective for the<br />
period beginning on or after 1 January 2007.<br />
- IFRS 7 “Financial instruments: disclosures”. The standard is effective for the period beginning on or<br />
after 1 January 2007.<br />
Functional currency and presentation currency<br />
The company presents its financial statements in NOK. Functional currency for the company is NOK.<br />
Cash & cash equivalents<br />
Cash includes bank and cash balances. The Cash-Flow statement is prepared using the indirect method.<br />
Provisions<br />
A provision is recognised when, and only when, the company has a present obligation (legal or<br />
constructive) as a result of a past event and it is probable (more likely than not) that an outflow of<br />
resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable estimate<br />
can be made of the amount of the obligation. Provisions are reviewed at each balance sheet date and<br />
adjusted to reflect the current best estimate. If the effect of the time value of money is immaterial, the<br />
amount of the provision will be equal to the expenditures required to be free of the obligation. If the effect<br />
of the time value of money is material, the amount of the provision will be the present value of the<br />
expenditures required to settle the obligation. Any increase in the provisions due to time is presented as<br />
interest costs.<br />
Equity<br />
Equity and liabilities<br />
Financial instruments are classified as liabilities or equity in accordance with the underlying financial<br />
reality.<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Financial Statements 2006<br />
Costs arising from equity transactions<br />
Transaction costs directly linked to an equity transaction are recognised directly in equity after a deduction<br />
for tax.<br />
Revenue recognition<br />
Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the company<br />
and the revenue can be measured reliably.<br />
Interest income is recognised as interest accrues.<br />
Income taxes<br />
Tax expense comprises current tax expense and deferred tax expense. Deferred tax liabilities are<br />
recognised for all accounting and taxable temporary differences.<br />
Deferred tax assets are recognised when it is probable that the company will have a sufficient profit for tax<br />
purposes to utilise the tax asset. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the future tax rates<br />
that are expected. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognised at nominal value and designated as<br />
financial assets (non-current liabilities) in the balance sheet. Current tax and deferred tax is charged or<br />
credited directly to equity if the tax relates to items that are credited or charged directly to equity.<br />
Segments<br />
The company has not had any operational activity in 2006. Therefore the company does not report in<br />
business areas. All activity in 2006 has been in Norway.<br />
Contingent liabilities and contingent assets<br />
Contingent liabilities are defined as:<br />
i) possible obligations resulting from past events whose existence depends on future events.<br />
ii) obligations that are not recognised because it is not probable that they will lead to an outflow of<br />
resources<br />
iii) obligations that cannot be measured with sufficient reliability.<br />
Contingent liabilities are not recognized in the financial statements. Material contingent liabilities are<br />
disclosed, unless the possibility of any outflow in settlement is remote.<br />
Contingent assets are not recognised, but are disclosed where an inflow of economic benefits is probable.<br />
Events after the balance sheet date<br />
New information received after the balance sheet date about the Company’s financial position at the<br />
balance sheet date is taken into account in the annual report. Material events after the balance sheet date<br />
which do not affect the company’s financial position at the balance sheet date, but which will affect the<br />
company’s financial position in the future are disclosed.<br />
Use of estimates<br />
Management has used estimates and sources of estimation that have affected assets, liabilities, income,<br />
expense and disclosures about potential liabilities. There are no significant accounting estimates in the<br />
financial statements for 2006.<br />
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COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Financial Statements 2006<br />
NOTE 3 UNCERTAINTY OF ESTIMATES<br />
There are no significant accounting estimates in the financial statements for 2006.<br />
NOTE 4 TAX<br />
Tax expense:<br />
2006<br />
Income tax payable 147<br />
Change in deferred tax 0<br />
Tax expense 147<br />
2006<br />
Income tax payable for the year 147<br />
Total income tax payable 147<br />
2 006<br />
Profit/loss before tax 526<br />
Tax based on tax rate in Norway 147<br />
Tax expense 147<br />
Effective tax rate 28,0 %<br />
Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities:<br />
There are no taxable temporary differences at the end of 2006.<br />
NOTE 5 EARNINGS PER SHARE<br />
Earnings per share is calculated by dividing profit for the year by the weighted average number of shares<br />
outstanding.<br />
As there are no outstanding share options, diluted earnings per share is not calculated.<br />
2006<br />
Profit for the year 379<br />
Profit for the year flowing to<br />
holders of ordinary shares 379<br />
Weighted average number of shares outstanding 31.12.2006<br />
Ordinary shares issued 19.09.2006 1 000 000<br />
Weighted average number of<br />
shares outstanding 31.12.2006 1 000 000<br />
Earnings per share 0,00<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Financial Statements 2006<br />
NOTE 6 PAYROLL AND NUMBERS OF EMPLOYEES<br />
2006<br />
Salaries/fees 0<br />
Total payroll costs 0<br />
Average number of employees: 0<br />
No salaries or fees have been paid to the General Manager or members of the Board in 2006.<br />
No loans have been granted or guarantees pledged to the General Manager, members of the<br />
Board or other related parties.<br />
NOTE 7 CASH & CASH EQUIVALENTS<br />
2006<br />
Cash at bank and in hand 1 000 526<br />
Cash & cash equivalents in<br />
balance sheet 1 000 526<br />
Bank overdrafts 0<br />
Cash & cash equivalents in cash<br />
flow statement<br />
1 000 526<br />
Restricted funds 0<br />
Interest rate bank deposits 0,25 %<br />
NOTE 8 SHARE CAPITAL<br />
2006<br />
Ordinary shares of NOK 1,00 each 1 000 000<br />
Total number of shares 1 000 000<br />
The company’s share capital consists of one class of shares.<br />
Changes in share capital<br />
Ordinary shares<br />
Number of<br />
Share<br />
shares<br />
capital<br />
2006 2006<br />
Issued and paid 19.09.2006 1 000 000 1 000 000<br />
Issued and paid 31.12.2006 1 000 000 1 000 000<br />
Shareholders at 31.12.2006 Number of shares Shareholding %<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> 1 000 000 100,00 %<br />
TOTAL 1 000 000 100,00 %<br />
125
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Financial Statements 2006<br />
NOTE 9 EQUITY<br />
Changes in equity<br />
Share<br />
capital<br />
Other equity<br />
Total<br />
Balance 19.09.2006 1 000 000 0 1 000 000<br />
Profit/loss for the year 379 379<br />
Balance 31.12.2006 1 000 000 379 1 000 379<br />
The costs related to the incorporation of the company, the Demerger and the listing of the company at The<br />
Oslo Stock Exchange will be paid by <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>. Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> will have no<br />
expenses related to the Demerger.<br />
NOTE 9 FINANCIAL MARKET RISK<br />
As of 31.12.2006 the company´s only asset is a bank deposit of NOK 1.000.526,-.<br />
In addition there has not been any operating activity in 2006.<br />
As a result of this there is no significant financial market risk.<br />
In 2007 activities will increase as an effect of the Demerger from <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>.<br />
Financial strategy will be revised in line with the new activities and risks.<br />
NOTE 10 RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS<br />
The company´s related parties consist of <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> and its subsidiaries, the main<br />
shareholders of <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>, members of the board and management.<br />
Except the payment of share capital, there have not been any transactions between the related parties in<br />
2006.<br />
The Company has entered into an agreement to purchase administrative services from <strong>Hexagon</strong><br />
<strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> in 2007. These services will mainly be related to assistance with the financial reporting<br />
and Investor Relations. The background for this agreement is to ensure that Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
can benefit from the expertise within <strong>Hexagon</strong> during the first phase as a listed company. The above<br />
mentioned management agreement has been entered into as part of the Company’s ordinary operations<br />
and at arms length terms. The agreement has been entered into at market terms and can be terminated at<br />
one months notice. Monthly expense is NOK 100 000.<br />
For management compensation, see note 6.<br />
Auditor<br />
There has been no auditors fee in 2006.<br />
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Financial Statements 2006<br />
NOTE 11 EVENTS AFTER THE BALANCE SHEET DATE<br />
The Demerger of the Communication Business in <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> into Comrod Communication<br />
<strong>ASA</strong> is expected to occur on or about 17 January 2007. As soon as practicable thereafter Comrod<br />
Communication <strong>ASA</strong> will be listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange, which is expected to occur on or about 22<br />
January 2007.<br />
Under the Demerger, an independent group will be established under Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> to<br />
continue the Communication Business, and the assets, rights and liabilities primarily related to the<br />
Communication Business, which is held by Comrod AS and its subsidiaries Fidulerc SA and Lerc SA, will be<br />
transferred from <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> to Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> by means of a demerger<br />
transaction effected in accordance with Norwegian law.<br />
In connection with the Demerger Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong>s share capital will be increased by NOK 12<br />
703 987 from NOK 1 000 000 to NOK 13 703 987 through the issue of 12 703 987 new Shares each with a<br />
par value of NOK 1,00 in the ratio of one Share per 10 <strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong> Shares. The Share<br />
Premium Fund will be increased from NOK 0,00 to NOK 27 804 542.<br />
Prior to the Completion of the Demerger there will be an additional directed issue of new Shares at market<br />
value towards <strong>Hexagon</strong>, to be subscribed, paid and registered simultaneously as the Completion of the<br />
Demerger, designed to give <strong>Hexagon</strong> a 25.00 % ownership interest in Comrod following the Demerger.<br />
Payment for the shares in the directed issue will be done through con<strong>version</strong> of debt of approximately<br />
MNOK 55, which will arrise in connection with the demerger, from Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong> to<br />
<strong>Hexagon</strong> <strong>Composites</strong> <strong>ASA</strong>.<br />
126
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
127
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
APPENDIX 7: ANNUAL REPORT FOR FIDULERC SA FOR 2005<br />
(translated from French)<br />
128
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
KPMG<br />
Fidulerc SA<br />
Auditor's General Report<br />
129
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
BALANCE SHEET - ASSETS<br />
Company name: SA Fidulerc<br />
Duration of the financial year in months: 12<br />
Company address: Chemin des Hamaïdes 59230 Saint Amand Les Eaux<br />
Duration of previous year: 12<br />
SIRET number: 41095449900019<br />
APE Code: 741J<br />
Gross Amortisation,<br />
provisions<br />
Net<br />
31.12.2005<br />
Net<br />
31.12.2004<br />
Other<br />
2067312 2067312 2067312<br />
participations<br />
Receivables<br />
500000 500000 500000<br />
from<br />
participating<br />
interests<br />
TOTAL (II) 2567312 2567312 2567312<br />
Other<br />
18081 18081 7660<br />
receivables (3)<br />
Funds<br />
available<br />
5448<br />
TOTAL (III) 18081 18081 13108<br />
TOTAL<br />
GENERAL<br />
(I to VI)<br />
2585393 2585393 2580421<br />
BALANCE SHEET – LIABILITIES before distribution<br />
Shareholders'<br />
equity<br />
Share capital or individual<br />
capital (I)<br />
(of which 372737 paid up)<br />
Issue, merger, or<br />
contribution premiums<br />
Year N<br />
31.12.2005<br />
Year N – 1<br />
31.12.2004<br />
372737 372737<br />
1205658 1205658<br />
Legal reserve (3) 11271 11271<br />
Compulsory reserves (3)<br />
243918 243918<br />
(Including special reserve for<br />
provisions for currency<br />
fluctuations)<br />
Carried forward -17775 -12852<br />
RESULT FOR THE YEAR<br />
126 -4922<br />
(profit or loss)<br />
TOTAL (I) 1815937 1815810<br />
Debts<br />
Loans and debts to credit<br />
establishments (5)<br />
Sundry loans and financial<br />
debts (including participating<br />
loans)<br />
Trade creditors and<br />
accounts payable<br />
495 166<br />
750000 750000<br />
10011 7344<br />
Other debt 8950 7100<br />
TOTAL (IV) 769456 764610<br />
GENERAL TOTAL (1 to V) 2585393 2580421<br />
References<br />
Debts and unearned income<br />
of less than one year<br />
Of which bank loans and<br />
overdrafts, credit with banks<br />
and postal accounts<br />
19456 14610<br />
495<br />
130
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR (in list format)<br />
Operating<br />
expenses<br />
Other external purchases<br />
and charges (3) (6 bis)<br />
Year N<br />
31.12.2005<br />
Total<br />
Year (N-1)<br />
31.12.2004<br />
3108 4204<br />
Total operating expenses 3108 4204<br />
Operating result (I-II) -3108 -4204<br />
21050 22900<br />
Financial<br />
income<br />
Financial<br />
expenses<br />
Income from other<br />
transferable securities and<br />
receivables from fixed<br />
assets (5)<br />
Exchange gains 3045<br />
24095 22900<br />
Total financial income<br />
(V)<br />
Interest and similar<br />
expenses<br />
Total financial expenses<br />
(VI)<br />
22866 23618<br />
22866 23618<br />
Financial result (V-VI) 1228 -718<br />
Operating result before tax -1879 -4922<br />
PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR (continued)<br />
Extraordinary<br />
income<br />
Extraordinary income on<br />
management operations<br />
Total extraordinary<br />
income<br />
Year N Year N-1<br />
2006<br />
2006<br />
Extraordinary result (VII-VIII) 2006<br />
Total income (I+III+V+VII) 26101 22900<br />
Total expenses (II+IV+VI+VIII+IX+X) 25975 27822<br />
Profit or loss (total income – total<br />
expenses<br />
126 -4922<br />
131
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
SA Fidulerc<br />
Annexe to the Annual Accounts<br />
for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
All amounts in EUR<br />
Major events<br />
Main events during the year<br />
There were no major events worthy of mention.<br />
Principles, rules and accounting methods<br />
The annual accounts were drawn up and presented in accordance with the prevailing<br />
French regulations, established by means of decrees issued by the Committee for<br />
Accounting Regulation (CRC).<br />
Regulation CRC 2000-6 of 07/12/2000 on liabilities was applied.<br />
Reform of assets:<br />
Regulation CRC 2004-06 of 23/11/2004, relating to the definition, inclusion in<br />
accounts and evaluation of assets and Regulation CRC 2002-10 of 12/12/2002,<br />
relating to the amortisation and depreciation of assets, were introduced for this<br />
financial year.<br />
There were no consequences for the profit and loss account and shareholders' equity<br />
for 2005.<br />
132
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Information on the Balance Sheet<br />
Balance Sheet – Assets<br />
List of subsidiaries and participating interests<br />
Company Shareholders'<br />
equity<br />
Capital<br />
held<br />
Net capital<br />
value of<br />
securities<br />
held<br />
Turnover<br />
exc. tax of<br />
previous<br />
year<br />
Result for<br />
previous<br />
year<br />
Dividends<br />
paid out in<br />
the year<br />
Lerc SA 6,320,998 96.39 2,067,312 12,619,397 1,225 952 0<br />
Trade investments<br />
259,995 shares in the company Lerc (95% of the capital) were acquired at the global<br />
purchase value of 1 FRF, in other words €0.15, and 135,606 shares in 2003, for a<br />
value of €2,067,312.<br />
Receivables on participating interests - Classification by due date<br />
Type up to one year over one year<br />
Lerc SA 500,000<br />
At CORRI's request, this sum remained frozen until the complete reimbursement of<br />
loans taken out by Lerc at the time of its financial restructuring in 2003.<br />
The final repayment is due to be made in August 2008.<br />
Items on the balance sheet relating to subsidiaries and<br />
participating interests<br />
Type<br />
Amount involving companies:<br />
that are linked<br />
(ECI Group)<br />
in which the<br />
Company has a<br />
participation<br />
(LERC SA)<br />
Receivables on participating interests<br />
500,000<br />
Other participating interests<br />
2,067,312<br />
Sundry financial debts and loans<br />
750,000<br />
Other receivables (RRR to obtain)<br />
10,421<br />
Supplier debts and accounts payable<br />
7,500<br />
Other debts (RRR to approve)<br />
8,950<br />
Financial expenses<br />
22,533<br />
Financial income<br />
21,050<br />
Current Assets – Classification by due date<br />
All receivables in current assets are payable within a year except for the following<br />
item:<br />
Item Total up to one year and over one year<br />
Carry back receivable 7,660 7,660<br />
The carry back receivable, generated in 2001, will be repaid in 2007.<br />
133
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
Balance sheet – Liabilities<br />
Capital<br />
The capital is comprised of 24,450 shares of €15.24 nominal value. There has not<br />
been any change during the year<br />
Table of variation of shareholders' capital<br />
2004 + – 2005<br />
Capital 372,737 - - 372,737<br />
Issue premium 1,205,658 - - 1,205,658<br />
Legal reserve 11,271 - - 11,271<br />
Compulsory reserves 243,919 - - 243,919<br />
Carried forward -12,853 -4,922 - -17,775<br />
Result of year N-1 -4,922 - -4,922 0<br />
Shareholders' equity before<br />
result for the year 1,815,810 -4,922 -4,922 1,815,810<br />
Result for the year - - 126 126<br />
Shareholders' equity after the<br />
result for the year 1,815,810 -4,922 -4,796 -1,815,936<br />
Identity of parent companies consolidating the Company's<br />
accounts<br />
The parent company consolidating the accounts of the Company is Electro<br />
<strong>Composites</strong> Inc, based in Saint-Jérôme, Québec (Canada).<br />
Financial debts - Classification by due date<br />
Type Total Up to one year Between one and Over five years<br />
five years<br />
ECI current<br />
account<br />
750,000 500,000 250,000<br />
Commitments made<br />
Fidulerc has made the 259,993 shares that it holds in Lerc SA available to the<br />
company ECI St Jérôme Québec (Canada) by way of a guarantee for an advance<br />
of 250,000 Canadian dollars provided by the latter. The advance was repaid but<br />
the guarantee has not been cancelled.<br />
In an agreement signed on 15 April 1997, Fidulerc, or any commercial entity or<br />
individual appointed by it, undertakes to purchase the holding that Finorpa has in<br />
its subsidiary Lerc, by 30 June 2003 at the latest. In an amendment of 23 June<br />
2003, this date was put back to 30 June 2006.<br />
The agreed purchase value shall not be less than the subscription value of the<br />
14,814 shares, namely €304,881, plus annual interest of 5.75%, in other words a<br />
minimum of €509,120.<br />
Freezing of €500,000 in Fidulerc's current account held with Lerc until complete<br />
repayment of the CEPME loan, namely in August 2008.<br />
On 31.12.2005, the amount of capital still payable by Lerc to CEPME was<br />
€187,500.<br />
134
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
APPENDIX 8: ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2005 FOR LERC SA<br />
(translated from French)<br />
135
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
KPMG<br />
Lerc SA<br />
Auditor's General Report<br />
136
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
BALANCE SHEET - ASSETS<br />
Company name: SA Lerc<br />
Duration of the financial year in months: 12<br />
Company address: 600 Chemin des Hamaïdes 59230 Saint Amand Les Eaux<br />
Duration of previous year: 12<br />
SIRET number: 54208704400021<br />
APE Code: 322A<br />
Gross Amortisation,<br />
provisions<br />
Net<br />
31.12.2005<br />
Net<br />
31.12.2004<br />
Other intangible assets 348247 305448 42799 27364<br />
Land 6010 6010 6010<br />
Buildings 5149504 2770341 2379163 2225783<br />
Technical installations,<br />
7916117 7188337 727780 493691<br />
equipment and industrial tools<br />
Other tangible assets 1691140 1587661 103479 121438<br />
Assets under construction 109519 109519 341370<br />
Advance payments 12361 12361<br />
Other equities 13645 13645 13645<br />
Loans 250000 250000 250000<br />
Other long-term investment 43718 43718 23137<br />
Total (II) 15540261 11851787 3688474 3502438<br />
Raw materials, supplies 2482471 460462 2022009 1731459<br />
Work in progress for goods 666543 35337 631206 658748<br />
384346 116167 268179 177886<br />
Semi-finished and finished<br />
products<br />
Advances paid on orders 15728 15728<br />
Trade accounts receivable 1628978 3817 1625161 709450<br />
Other accounts receivable 2762860 320142 2442718 2699039<br />
Cash on hand 54968 54968 84376<br />
Prepayments 49531 49531 54199<br />
Total (III) 8045425 935925 7109500 9115157<br />
Con<strong>version</strong> rate adjustment -<br />
assets<br />
46544<br />
General Total (I to VI) 23585686 12787712 10797974 9664139<br />
BALANCE SHEET – LIABILITIES before distribution<br />
Shareholders'<br />
equity<br />
Provisions for<br />
contingencies<br />
and<br />
expenses<br />
Debts<br />
Year N<br />
31.12.2005<br />
Year N-1<br />
31.12.2004<br />
Share capital or individual capital (of 6256812 6256812<br />
which 6256812 paid up)<br />
Issue, merger or contribution premiums 79043 79043<br />
Legal reserve 163628 163628<br />
Other reserves (including reserve for the 222221 222221<br />
purchase of original works by living<br />
artists)<br />
Carried forward -1902351 -2642792<br />
Result for the year<br />
1225952 740440<br />
(profit or loss)<br />
Investment subsidies 212256 237274<br />
Compulsory provisions 63435<br />
Total (I) 6320996 5056626<br />
Provision for contingencies 74845 89044<br />
Provision for expenses 60640<br />
Total (III) 135485 89044<br />
Loans and debts to credit establishments 808462 724605<br />
Sundry financial debts and loans<br />
1062422 1153506<br />
(including participating loans)<br />
Advance payments received on orders in 45879 32265<br />
progress<br />
Trade creditors and accounts payable 1447036 1718688<br />
Fiscal debts and social charges 858912 779928<br />
Debts on fixed assets and accounts<br />
15202 69746<br />
payable<br />
Other debt 74650 25529<br />
Unearned income 14202<br />
Total (IV) 4312563 4518469<br />
Con<strong>version</strong> rate adjustment – Liabilities<br />
(V)<br />
28930<br />
General Total 10797974 9664139<br />
3337529 3175169<br />
Debts and unearned income of less than<br />
one year<br />
Of which bank loans and overdrafts,<br />
credit with banks and postal accounts<br />
379835 165884<br />
137
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR (in list format)<br />
Operating<br />
income<br />
Year N (31.12.2005) Year N-1<br />
31.12.2004<br />
France Exports and intracommunity Total<br />
deliveries<br />
Sales of 348433 140531 488964 264098<br />
goods<br />
Production<br />
sold 7962771 4088153 12050924 12194566<br />
- goods<br />
- services 71542 7966 79508 80512<br />
Net<br />
turnover<br />
Operating income<br />
Operating Expenses<br />
Operating<br />
expenses<br />
Operating<br />
allocations<br />
8382746 4236650 12619396 12539176<br />
Production stocked 57276 -382217<br />
Returns on amortisation and provisions,<br />
10777 36470<br />
transfers of expenses<br />
Other income 11231 5912<br />
Total operating income (I) 12698680 12199341<br />
Purchases of goods (inc. customs duties)<br />
Purchase of raw materials and other<br />
4928393 5329270<br />
supplies (inc. customs duties)<br />
Variation of stock (raw materials an<br />
-356100 -344588<br />
supplies)<br />
Other external purchases and charges 2388289 2066260<br />
Taxes, duties and associated payments 534096 472256<br />
Salaries and fees 2302788 2180430<br />
Social charges 975123 925112<br />
On fixed - allocations for amortisation 368630 481427<br />
assets - allocations for provisions<br />
On current assets: allocations for provisions 74668 112914<br />
For contingencies and expenses:<br />
62345<br />
allocations for provisions<br />
Other expenses 5257 16695<br />
Total operating expenses (II) 11284035 11239776<br />
1. OPERATING RESULT (I-II) 1414645 959565<br />
Financial income Financial income from participating interests<br />
Income from other marketable securities<br />
15000<br />
and receivables from fixed assets<br />
Other interest and similar income 2336 7652<br />
Return on provisions and transfer of<br />
46544 21037<br />
expenses<br />
Exchange gains 62309 5730<br />
Financial expenses<br />
Total financial income (V) 126189 34419<br />
Financial allocations to amortisation and<br />
46544<br />
provisions<br />
Interest and similar expenses 125735 152807<br />
Exchange losses 36495 10189<br />
Net expenses on sale of short-term<br />
marketable securities<br />
Total financial expenses (VI) 162230 209540<br />
2. FINANCIAL RESULT (V-VI) -36041 -175121<br />
3. OPERATING RESULT BEFORE TAX (I-II+III-IV+V-VI) 1378604 784444<br />
PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR (continued)<br />
Extraordinary income<br />
Extraordinary<br />
expenses<br />
Year N<br />
31.12.2005<br />
Year N-1<br />
31.12.2004<br />
Extraordinary income on management<br />
operations<br />
Extraordinary income on capital operations 25418 60015<br />
Returns on provisions and transfer of<br />
expenses<br />
Total extraordinary income (VII) 25418 60015<br />
Extraordinary charges on management<br />
68995 10029<br />
operations<br />
Extraordinary charges on capital operations 36488<br />
Extraordinary allocations for amortisation<br />
94075 42500<br />
and provisions<br />
Total extraordinary expenses (VIII) 163070 89017<br />
4. EXTRAORDINARY RESULT (VII-VIII) -137652 -29002<br />
Employee profit-sharing (IX)<br />
Tax on profits (X) 15000 15000<br />
TOTAL INCOME (I+III+V+VII) 12850288 12293777<br />
TOTAL EXPENSES (II+IV+VI+VIII+IX+X) 11624336 11553336<br />
5. PROFIT OR LOSS (total income – total expenses) 1225952 740441<br />
References Of which partial net income on long-term operations<br />
Of which property rents<br />
Of which operating income relating to previous years<br />
(details given in (8) below)<br />
Of which equipment leasing 177782 162647<br />
Of which property leasing<br />
Of which operating expenses relating to previous years<br />
(details given in (8) below)<br />
Of which income concerning associated enterprises<br />
Of which interest concerning associated enterprises<br />
Of which gifts made to organisations in the public<br />
interest (art. 238 bis of the CGI)<br />
Of which transfers of expenses<br />
Of which personal contributions by the operator<br />
Of which duties for patents and licences (income)<br />
Of which duties for patents and licences (expenses)<br />
Of which additional personal optional compulsory<br />
premiums and contributions<br />
Details of extraordinary income and expenses (If this<br />
section is insufficient, attach a statement in the same<br />
format)<br />
Extraordinary<br />
expenses<br />
Charges on management operations 68995<br />
Year N<br />
Extraordinary<br />
income<br />
Accelerated amortisation 63435<br />
Provisions for contingencies and expenses 30640<br />
Income from sale of assets 400<br />
Investment subsidies included in the result 25018<br />
Year N<br />
(8) Details of income and expenses for previous years Previous Previous<br />
expenses income<br />
138
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe to the Annual Accounts<br />
for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
All amounts in EUR<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
1 Major events<br />
1.1 Main events during the year<br />
No major events occurred during the financial year.<br />
1.2 Events after the year end<br />
At the meeting of the company's Board of Directors of 30 May 2006, a<br />
resolution was passed for the advance reimbursement of €500,000 to the<br />
current account opened in the name of the parent company, Fidulerc.<br />
1.3 Principles, rules and accounting methods<br />
The annual accounts were drawn up and presented in accordance with the<br />
prevailing French regulations, established by means of decrees issued by<br />
the Committee for Accounting Regulation (CRC).<br />
Regulation CRC 2004-06 of 23/11/2004, relating to the definition, inclusion<br />
in accounts and evaluation of assets and Regulation CRC 2002-10 of<br />
12/12/2002, relating to the amortisation and depreciation of assets, were<br />
introduced for this financial year.<br />
These reforms were applied in the following manner:<br />
Use of the method of reallocating net accounting values,<br />
Differentiation of the amortised "Buildings" item:<br />
For the structure, 40 years, straight line,<br />
For the components, 20 years, straight line.<br />
Review of the amortisation plan for equipment and tools not amortised at<br />
the start of the year, based on the actual duration of use.<br />
Inclusion in the accounts, as accelerated amortisation, of the differential<br />
between amortisation calculated on the duration of usage previously<br />
employed and the estimated working life.<br />
The consequences for the profit and loss account take the form of a transfer between<br />
the operating expenses and extraordinary expenses for the amount of the<br />
contribution to accelerated amortisation, namely €64,000.<br />
139
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
2 Information on the Balance Sheet<br />
2.1 Assets<br />
2.1.1 Fixed assets table<br />
Table 2054.<br />
2.1.2 Amortisation table<br />
Table 2055.<br />
2.1.3 Intangible fixed assets<br />
2.1.3.1 Research and development costs<br />
Expenses incurred during previous years that have been completely<br />
amortised are excluded. No expense of this type was included in fixed<br />
assets for the year.<br />
2.1.3.2 Amortisation<br />
Type of fixed asset Method Duration<br />
Research and development costs Straight line 2 years<br />
Software and software packages Straight line 3 years<br />
2.1.4 Tangible fixed assets<br />
2.1.4.1 Evaluation<br />
Tangible and intangible fixed assets are evaluated at their acquisition cost<br />
(purchase cost plus associated expenses, not including acquisition<br />
expenses for fixed assets) or their production cost.<br />
The interest on loans specific to the production of fixed assets is not<br />
included in the cost of production of the fixed assets.<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
2.1.4.2 Amortisation<br />
The amortisation for depreciation is calculated from 2005 in accordance with<br />
the scheduled period of use. The most commonly used rates are described<br />
below (SL = straight line):<br />
Structure<br />
Components<br />
Fittings, construction<br />
Tangible fixed assets Duration Method Rate<br />
40 years<br />
20 years<br />
10 years<br />
SL<br />
SL<br />
SL<br />
2.5%<br />
5%<br />
10%<br />
Technical equipment Duration Method Rate<br />
Equipment and tools From 4 years<br />
up to 10 years<br />
SL<br />
SL<br />
25%<br />
10%<br />
General fixed assets Duration Method Rate<br />
Fittings 10 years SL 10%<br />
Equipment Duration Method Rate<br />
Office and computer equipment 4 years<br />
8 years<br />
SL<br />
SL<br />
25%<br />
12.5%<br />
140
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
2.1.4.3 Leasing and financial leases (in euros)<br />
Land Buildings<br />
Installations<br />
Equipment<br />
Tools<br />
Other Total<br />
Original value 885,165 885,165<br />
Amortisation:<br />
Accumulation from previous<br />
years<br />
541,386 541,386<br />
Contribution for the year 149,115 149,115<br />
Total 690,501 690,501<br />
Instalments paid:<br />
Accumulation from previous<br />
years<br />
640,833 640,833<br />
Years 219,304 219,304<br />
Total 860,137 860,137<br />
Instalments payable:<br />
Less than 1 year 141,000 141,000<br />
Over 1 year and less than 5<br />
years<br />
51,098 51,098<br />
Over five years<br />
Total 192,098 192,098<br />
Residual value:<br />
Less than 1 year<br />
Over 1 year and less than 5<br />
years<br />
1,257 1,257<br />
Over five years<br />
Total 1,257 1,257<br />
Amount taken into account during<br />
the year<br />
177,782 177,782<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
2.1.5 Long-term investment<br />
2.1.5.1 Securities in subsidiaries and participating interests<br />
List of subsidiaries and participating interests<br />
Company Capital % capital held Net accounting<br />
value of<br />
securities held<br />
Subsidiaries (+ 50%)<br />
None<br />
Participating interests (10-50%)<br />
SA Janssens Engineering<br />
11 rue Hanstrée<br />
4608 War Sage<br />
Belgium<br />
1,400 shares 21.43%, i.e. 300<br />
shares<br />
€7,543<br />
2.1.5.2 Long-term receivables<br />
Receivables payable on participating interests<br />
Classification by due date.<br />
Table 2057.<br />
141
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
Balance sheet items relating to associated enterprises and participating<br />
interests.<br />
that are<br />
associated<br />
Subscribed capital, not called up<br />
Advances on intangible fixed assets<br />
Advances on tangible fixed assets<br />
Participating interests<br />
Receivables on participating interests<br />
Loans to the company ECI 250,000<br />
Long-term securities in portfolio<br />
Other long-term securities<br />
Other long-term investment<br />
Advance payments on orders<br />
Receivables, clients and ECI 201,602<br />
Other receivables<br />
Called up subscribed capital, unpaid<br />
Short-term investments<br />
Treasury instruments (assets)<br />
Cash on hand<br />
Convertible debenture loans<br />
Other debenture loans<br />
Loans and debts to credit establishments<br />
Sundry financial debts and loans: Fidulerc SA current account 500,000<br />
Advance payments received on orders in progress<br />
Trade creditors and accounts payable<br />
Debts on fixed assets and accounts payable<br />
Other debt<br />
Treasury instruments (liabilities)<br />
Amount concerning enterprises:<br />
with which the<br />
Company has a<br />
participating interest<br />
Financial charges on Fidulerc SA current account 21,050<br />
Financial income on ECI loan 15,000<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
2.1.5.3 Other long-term receivables<br />
Classification by due date<br />
Table 2057.<br />
Accrued interest<br />
€21,450<br />
2.1.6 Stock<br />
2.1.6.1 Status of stock<br />
Stock category Gross value Depreciation Net value<br />
Stock of raw materials, supplies, spare parts 2,482,471 460,462 2,022,009<br />
Stock of work in progress 666,543 35,337 631,206<br />
Stock of finished products and demonstration 384,346 116,167 268,179<br />
materials<br />
Total 3,533,360 611,966 2,921,394<br />
The raw materials stock is evaluated at weighted average unit price.<br />
Production in progress and finished products are valued at direct cost, multiplied by a<br />
general production expenses coefficient, determined in accordance with incorporable<br />
expenses per sector.<br />
An estimate of incorporable general expenses on the stock of products in progress<br />
and finished products is drawn up each year as part of the provision of financial<br />
information for the year.<br />
The value thus obtained is in all cases restricted to the market value, with a<br />
deduction for the remaining commercial expenses to be covered.<br />
No financial expenses are included in the cost of products in progress and finished<br />
products.<br />
The provisions for depreciation of stocks result from probable losses relating to<br />
technical and financial events.<br />
142
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
2.1.7 Receivables<br />
2.1.7.1 Classification by due date<br />
Table 2057.<br />
2.1.7.2 Receivables transferred to the factor<br />
€1,110,858<br />
2.1.7.3 Income receivable<br />
Amount<br />
Receivables for participating interests<br />
Other long-term investment 21,450<br />
Client receivables<br />
Other receivables<br />
Cash on hand<br />
Total 21,450<br />
2.1.7.4 Prepayments<br />
Unifergie lease 34,095<br />
Other leases 1,847<br />
2006 exhibitions 11,022<br />
Interest on refinancing debts and revolving credit 2,565<br />
49,529<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
2.2 Liabilities<br />
2.2.1 Table of variation of shareholders' equity<br />
N-1 + – N<br />
Capital 6,256,813 6,256,813<br />
Premiums, reserves 464,894 464,894<br />
Carried forward -2,642,792 740,440 -1,902,352<br />
Results 740,440 1,225,952 740,440 1,225,952<br />
Investment subsidies 237,274 25,018 212,256<br />
Mandatory provisions 63,435 63,435<br />
Other<br />
Total 5,056,629 2,029,827 765,458 6,320,998<br />
2.2.2 Capital<br />
2.2.2.1 Movements during the year<br />
The capital comprises 410,420 shares of €15.2449 nominal value. There<br />
has not been any change during the financial year.<br />
2.2.2.2 Identity of the parent companies consolidating the Company's<br />
accounts<br />
Lerc SA is consolidated in accordance with the global integration method at<br />
31 December 2005 with the company ECI <strong>Composites</strong> Inc, 325 rue Scott,<br />
Saint Jérome, Canada.<br />
The company ECI <strong>Composites</strong> Inc indirectly holds 96.35% of Lerc SA<br />
ECI holds 99.97% of Fidulerc SA<br />
Fidulerc holds 96.38% of Lerc SA<br />
143
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
2.2.3 Other shareholders' equity<br />
2.2.3.1 Investment subsidies<br />
Amortisation<br />
Entity Original amount Method Duration Amount<br />
Regional Council 457,347 Straight line 20 years 22,867<br />
ERDF 17,209 Straight line 8 years 2,151<br />
2.2.3.2 Exceptional fiscal evaluations<br />
Result for the year + 1,225,952<br />
Tax on profits at 33.83% + /<br />
Result before tax = 1,225,952<br />
Variation of regulatory provisions + 63,435<br />
Result not including exceptional fiscal evaluations 1,289,387<br />
The method used for the calculation of accelerated amortisation is given in paragraph<br />
1.2.<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
2.2.4 Provisions for contingencies and expenses<br />
2.2.4.1 Table of provisions for contingencies and expenses<br />
Provisions for<br />
contingencies<br />
- industrial<br />
tribunal<br />
disputes<br />
- additional tax<br />
assessment<br />
- provision for<br />
exchange<br />
losses<br />
Amount<br />
at the<br />
start of<br />
the year<br />
42,500<br />
46,544<br />
Made up<br />
from own<br />
funds<br />
Allocations<br />
for the<br />
year<br />
32,345<br />
Withdrawals<br />
used<br />
46,544<br />
Withdrawals<br />
not used<br />
Withdrawals<br />
from own<br />
funds<br />
Amount<br />
at the<br />
end of<br />
the year<br />
42,500<br />
32,345<br />
Total 89,044 32,345 46,544 74,845<br />
Provisions for<br />
expenses<br />
- additional tax<br />
assessment<br />
- costs to be<br />
incurred on<br />
invoiced<br />
products<br />
30,640<br />
30,000<br />
30,640<br />
30,000<br />
Total 60,640 60,640<br />
2.2.4.2 Employees' training rights<br />
Employees' training rights Number of hours of training<br />
Accumulated rights acquired by employees during the year 1,660 hours<br />
Accumulated rights that were not subject to a claim by employees 1,660 hours<br />
144
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
2.2.4.3 Pension commitments<br />
Pension commitments Provision<br />
made<br />
Provision not<br />
made<br />
IDR [compulsory retirement indemnity] (including<br />
364,491 364,491<br />
expenses)<br />
Pension commitments to former directors 0 0<br />
Health insurance contributions for retired employees 0 0<br />
Total<br />
Methods of calculation of pension commitments:<br />
Pension commitments were evaluated in accordance with prospective methods<br />
based on each employee's future situation and taking into account years of service<br />
on the day of retirement.<br />
Parameters:<br />
Retirement age: 65<br />
Calculation criteria<br />
rate of annual revaluation of salaries: 2.0%<br />
annual average interest rate: 4.5%<br />
The calculation of compensation takes into account the following matters:<br />
Probability of departure (resignation, redundancy) of the employee before the age<br />
of retirement,<br />
Risk of mortality of the employee before retirement age (TPRV table 1993).<br />
2.2.5 Financial debts<br />
2.2.5.1 Classification by due date<br />
Table 2057.<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
2.2.5.2 Guaranteed debts<br />
Type Assets used as guarantee Amount of debt<br />
at 31.12.2005<br />
Revolving loan CDN 2005 Security on business capital 150,000<br />
Loan CEPME 2003 Security on business capital 187,500<br />
Loan BPN 2004 Mortgage on property 78,740<br />
Total 416,240<br />
2.2.6 Other debts<br />
2.2.6.1 Classification by due date<br />
Table 2057.<br />
2.2.6.2 Charges payable<br />
Charges payable Amount<br />
Convertible debenture loans<br />
Other debenture loans<br />
Loans and debts with credit establishments 4,219<br />
Sundry loans and financial debts 4,655<br />
Advance payments received on orders in progress<br />
Trade creditors and accounts payable 115,263<br />
Fiscal debts and social charges 301,723<br />
Debts on fixed assets and accounts payable<br />
Other debts 9,746<br />
Total 435,604<br />
145
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
2.2.6.3 Other significant information<br />
Debts in foreign currency giving rise to a con<strong>version</strong> rate adjustment.<br />
None.<br />
2.2.7 Deferred payment and unearned income<br />
2.2.7.1 Composition of unearned income<br />
None.<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
3 Information on profit and loss account<br />
3.1 Breakdown of turnover by activity sector and geographical<br />
market<br />
Activity sector / Geographical market Amount<br />
Sales of goods in France 348,433<br />
Sales of goods for export 140,531<br />
Production sold in France, goods 7,962,772<br />
Production sold abroad, goods 4,088,153<br />
Production sold in France, services 71,542<br />
Production sold abroad, services 7,966<br />
Total 12,619,397<br />
3.2 Financial Result<br />
Financial income<br />
Interest on group current account 15,000<br />
Other income on client receivables and currency accounts 2,336<br />
Write-back of provision for exchange losses 46,544<br />
Foreign exchange gains 62,309<br />
126,139<br />
Financial expenses<br />
Interest on loans, overdrafts, current accounts 125,733<br />
Foreign exchange losses 36,495<br />
162,228<br />
146
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
3.3 Extraordinary Result<br />
Extraordinary income<br />
Investment subsidies related to the result 25,018<br />
Income from transfers 400<br />
25,418<br />
Extraordinary expenses<br />
Tax adjustments 31,889<br />
Company contribution re an agreement 36,032<br />
signed with DDTE [Ministry of Employment]<br />
Allocation to accelerated amortisation 63,435<br />
Allocation to provisions for contingencies and expenses 30,640<br />
Contract penalties 1,074<br />
163,070<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
3.4 Corporation Tax<br />
3.4.1 Statement of deferred and potential tax<br />
Heading Amount<br />
Tax due on:<br />
Investment subsidies<br />
Accelerated amortisation<br />
212,256<br />
63,435<br />
70,751<br />
21,145<br />
Total increase 91,896<br />
Tax paid in advance on:<br />
Expenses temporarily not deductible (to be deducted in the following<br />
year)<br />
Paid holidays<br />
Other:<br />
Organic and construction investment<br />
190,398<br />
63,465<br />
30,563 10,188<br />
Total reduction 73,653<br />
Net deferred tax 18,243<br />
Deferrable deficits at 31.12.2005 869,440 289,810<br />
Net potential tax 289,810<br />
147
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
4 Other Information<br />
4.1 Financial commitments<br />
Commitments made<br />
Category<br />
Amount<br />
Pension commitments<br />
€364,491<br />
Other commitments made<br />
- loans<br />
- advance to the company Française de Factoring<br />
- property lease (total not inc. tax or residual value)<br />
€416,240<br />
€1,110,858<br />
€192,008<br />
TOTAL €2,083,597<br />
Commitments received at 31.12.2005<br />
Category Initial guarantee Remaining<br />
Guarantee received from La Viscontea for the payment of the<br />
balance of fishing equipment fund transferred to Lerc<br />
International.<br />
320,142.87<br />
Guarantee received from ECI <strong>Composites</strong> Inc, Québec, Canada<br />
for the payment of loans 2003<br />
350,000.00<br />
195,667.98<br />
Deposit of Lerc International guarantee received in 2003<br />
Freezing Fidulerc current account<br />
until complete repayment of the CEPME loan in August 2008.<br />
This subject is described in the paragraph on subsequent<br />
events.<br />
500,000.00<br />
7,043.00<br />
500,000.00<br />
SA Lerc<br />
Annexe the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31.12.2005<br />
4.2 Average workforce<br />
Salary<br />
personnel<br />
Managers 15<br />
Skilled workers and technicians 12<br />
Employees 0<br />
Manual labour 56<br />
Total 83<br />
Personnel<br />
available<br />
4.3 Remuneration of Directors<br />
Information is not provided on the remuneration of management entities as<br />
this would indirectly lead to disclosing details on individual remuneration.<br />
148
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
FIXED ASSETS<br />
Structure<br />
A<br />
Intangible<br />
Tangible<br />
Financial<br />
Fixed Assets Gross value<br />
of fixed<br />
assets at<br />
start of year<br />
Establishment and<br />
research and development<br />
costs<br />
TOTAL I<br />
Other intangible fixed<br />
asset items<br />
330335<br />
Increases<br />
As a consequence of a<br />
re-evaluation during<br />
the year or resulting<br />
from an equity method<br />
procedure<br />
Acquisitions,<br />
creations,<br />
contributions and<br />
transfers from<br />
item to item<br />
311602 36645<br />
TOTAL II<br />
Land 6010<br />
On own site 4827301 322202<br />
Technical installations,<br />
8039672 368270<br />
equipment and industrial<br />
tools<br />
General installations,<br />
2392067 14503<br />
fittings, sundry facilities<br />
Office equipment and<br />
682077 11950<br />
computer fittings<br />
Tangible fixed assets in<br />
341370 109519<br />
progress<br />
Advances 12364<br />
TOTAL III 16288497 838808<br />
Other participating<br />
13645<br />
interests<br />
Loans and other long-term 273137 35390<br />
investment<br />
TOTAL IV 286782 35390<br />
GENERAL TOTAL (I+II+III+IV) 17217216 910843<br />
Reductions<br />
Structure<br />
B<br />
Intangible<br />
Tangible<br />
Financial<br />
Fixed Assets by transfer<br />
from item to<br />
item<br />
Establishment and<br />
research and<br />
development costs<br />
TOTAL I<br />
Other intangible fixed<br />
asset items<br />
TOTAL II<br />
by transfer to third<br />
parties or put out of<br />
service or resulting<br />
from an equity method<br />
procedure<br />
Gross value of<br />
fixed assets at the<br />
end of the year<br />
330335 0<br />
348247<br />
Land 6010<br />
On own site 5149503<br />
Technical installations,<br />
491826 7916116<br />
equipment and industrial<br />
tools<br />
General installations,<br />
1404493 1002077<br />
fittings, sundry facilities<br />
Office equipment and<br />
4964 689063<br />
computer fittings<br />
Tangible fixed assets in<br />
341370 109519<br />
progress<br />
Advances 12364<br />
TOTAL III 341370 1901283 14884652<br />
Other participating<br />
13645<br />
interests<br />
Loans and other longterm<br />
14808 293719<br />
investment<br />
TOTAL IV 14808 307364<br />
GENERAL TOTAL (I+II+III+IV) 341370 2246426 15540263<br />
AMORTISATION<br />
Structure A Positions and movements during the year<br />
Amortisable fixed<br />
assets<br />
Establishment and<br />
research and<br />
development costs<br />
Amount of<br />
amortisation at<br />
the start of the<br />
year<br />
Increases:<br />
contributions<br />
during the year<br />
Decreases:<br />
amortisation of<br />
items removed<br />
from the assets<br />
and write-backs<br />
Amount of<br />
amortisation at<br />
the end of the<br />
year<br />
330335 284237 330335 0<br />
TOTAL I<br />
Other intangible<br />
284237 21210 305447<br />
fixed asset items<br />
TOTAL II<br />
Constructions on<br />
2601517 168823 2770340<br />
own land<br />
Technical<br />
7545980 134182 491826 7188336<br />
installations,<br />
equipment and<br />
industrial tools<br />
General<br />
2297569 28946 1404493 922022<br />
installations, fittings,<br />
sundry facilities<br />
Office equipment<br />
655136 15466 4964 665638<br />
and computer<br />
fittings<br />
TOTAL III 13100202 347417 1901283 11546336<br />
GENERAL TOTAL<br />
13714774 368627 2231618 11851783<br />
(I+II+III)<br />
Structure B Breakdown of contributions to amortisation over<br />
the year<br />
Amortisable fixed<br />
assets<br />
Straight line<br />
amortisation<br />
Declining-balance<br />
amortisation<br />
Structure C<br />
Movements affecting<br />
provision for<br />
accelerated<br />
amortisation<br />
Contributions<br />
Intangible fixed assets<br />
21210<br />
TOTAL II<br />
On own land 168823 56696<br />
Technical installations,<br />
130810 3372 6739<br />
equipment and<br />
industrial tools<br />
General installations,<br />
28946<br />
fittings, sundry facilities<br />
Office equipment and<br />
15466<br />
computer fittings<br />
TOTAL III 344045 3372 63435<br />
GENERAL TOTAL<br />
(I+II+III)<br />
365255 3372 63435<br />
149
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
PROVISIONS RECORDED IN THE BALANCE SHEET<br />
Type of provision Amount at the<br />
start of the year<br />
Increases:<br />
Contributions<br />
during the year<br />
Decreases: Writeback<br />
during the<br />
year<br />
Amount at the<br />
end of the year<br />
Accelerated<br />
63435 63435<br />
amortisation<br />
TOTAL I 63435 63435<br />
Provisions for<br />
46544 46544 0<br />
exchange losses<br />
Other provisions<br />
42500 92985 135485<br />
for contingencies<br />
and expenses<br />
TOTAL II 89044 92985 46544 135485<br />
On stock and in<br />
551892 70851 10777 611966<br />
progress<br />
On client accounts 3817 3817<br />
Other provisions<br />
320142 320142<br />
for depreciation<br />
TOTAL III 872034 74668 10777 935925<br />
GENERAL TOTAL<br />
961078 231088 57321 1134845<br />
(I+II+III)<br />
- operating 137013 10777<br />
- financial 46544<br />
- extraordinary 94075<br />
SA LERC<br />
Year ending 31.12.2005<br />
DETAILS OF OTHER PROVISIONS FOR CONTINGENCIES AND EXPENSES<br />
Type Amount at<br />
start of year<br />
Increase Decrease Amount at<br />
end of year<br />
Provision for industrial relations disputes 42,500 42,500<br />
Provision for other tax expenses 62,985 62,985<br />
Costs related to production sold 30,000 30,000<br />
150
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
SA LERC<br />
Year ending 31.12.2005<br />
DETAILS OF OTHER PROVISIONS FOR DEPRECIATION<br />
Type Amount at<br />
start of year<br />
Increase Decrease Amount at<br />
end of year<br />
Provision for Lerc International receivable 320,142 320,142<br />
STATEMENT OF DUE DATES FOR CREDITS AND DEBTS AT THE END OF THE<br />
YEAR<br />
Structure A Statement of receivables Gross amount Up to one year Over one<br />
year<br />
Fixed assets Loans 250000 250000<br />
Other long-term investment 43718 43178<br />
Current<br />
assets<br />
Other client receivables 1628978 1628978<br />
Personnel and accounts receivable 2393 2393<br />
State and Corporation tax 30000 30000<br />
other public bodies<br />
Value-added tax 44467 44467<br />
Sundry 42729 42729<br />
Sundry debtors 2643270 2643270<br />
Prepayments 49531 49531<br />
TOTALS 4735086 4485086 250000<br />
Structure<br />
B<br />
Loans and<br />
debts to<br />
credit<br />
establish<br />
Debt<br />
statement<br />
maximum<br />
of one<br />
year from<br />
origin<br />
ments over one<br />
year from<br />
origin<br />
Sundry loans and<br />
financial debts<br />
Trade creditors and<br />
accounts payable<br />
Personnel and<br />
accounts payable<br />
Social Security and<br />
other social welfare<br />
bodies<br />
State and<br />
other<br />
public<br />
bodies<br />
Valueadded<br />
tax<br />
Other<br />
taxes,<br />
duties and<br />
similar<br />
Gross amount Up to one year Between one and five<br />
years<br />
379835 379835<br />
428627 124471 304155<br />
257524 132524 125000<br />
1447033 1447033<br />
303504 303504<br />
226189 226189<br />
189622 189622<br />
139596 139596<br />
Debts on fixed assets<br />
15202 15202<br />
and accounts payable<br />
Group and associates 804898 304898 500000<br />
Other debts (including<br />
74650 74650<br />
debts relating to repo<br />
operations)<br />
TOTALS 4266680 3337524 929155<br />
151
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
APPENDIX 9: FIDULERC SA. AND LERC SA. - TRANSITION FROM<br />
FGAAP TO IFRS IN THE INCOME STATEMENT<br />
The following table shows the effects of the transitions from FGAAP (French Generally Accepted<br />
Accounting Principles) to IFRS for Fidulerc SA and Lerc SA for the income statement for the period<br />
ended 31.12.2005. The most important effects of the transition are described below. Please refer to the<br />
corresponding notes.<br />
2005 2005 2005 2005 2005<br />
01.01.-31.12. 01.01.-31.12. 01.01.-31.12. 01.01.-31.12. 01.01.-31.12<br />
Notes<br />
FIDULERC SA<br />
FGAAP<br />
LERC SA<br />
FGAAP<br />
IFRS<br />
adjustments<br />
Fidulerc/Lerc<br />
IFRS<br />
EUR<br />
Fidulerc/Lerc<br />
IFRS<br />
NOK<br />
Operating revenues 0 12 690 0 12 690 101 680<br />
Operating expenses<br />
Cost of materials 4 600 0 4 600 36 858<br />
Payroll and social security expenses<br />
1 1 852 -6 1 846 14 794<br />
Depreciation 2 407 -63 344 2 753<br />
Other operating expenses 3 1 4 477 25 4 503 36 079<br />
Total operating expenses 1 11 336 -44 11 293 90 484<br />
Operating profit/loss -1 1 354 44 1 397 11 195<br />
Financial income/expenses<br />
Interest received 21 17 0 38 302<br />
Other financial income 3 63 0 66 529<br />
Other interest paid -23 -116 0 -139 -1 110<br />
Other financial expenses -77 0 -77 -616<br />
Net financial income/expenses 1 -113 0 -112 -895<br />
Profit before tax 0 1 241 44 1 285 10 300<br />
Taxes 4 0 15 447 462 3 700<br />
Profit/loss for the year 0 1 226 -402 824 6 600<br />
IFRS adjustment comments:<br />
1. “Payroll and social security expenses”: TEUR - 6 is decrease in employee benefits liability that<br />
has been recognized in 2005 according to IFRS. According to French accounting standards<br />
provision for the employee benefits liability is not compulsory and has not been recognized by<br />
Lerc. Under IFRS a provision is mandatory and the change in liability is recognized as a payroll<br />
expense.<br />
2. “Depreciation”: TEUR – 63 is reversal of additional depreciation made for tax purposes. French<br />
accounting standards permit this additional depreciation in the income statement. Under IFRS this<br />
additional depreciation is not recognised.<br />
3. “Other operating expenses”: TEUR 25 is government grants related to fixed asset which is added<br />
back to the income statement. Under IFRS these grants is accounted for as a reduction of cost of<br />
fixed assets.<br />
4. “Tax”: TEUR 447. Income tax for 2005 (33.33%) is calculated to EUR 432. Tax related to<br />
adjustment 1 – 3 above amount to 15. The tax recognized in the FGAAP statement is a standard<br />
tax applied whether the company has taxable income or not. Under IFRS temporary differences,<br />
152
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
including losses carried forward is recognized in the balance. Changes in temporary differences<br />
are recognized in the income statement.<br />
The following table shows the effects of the transitions from FGAAP (French Generally Accepted<br />
Accounting Principles) to IFRS for Fidulerc SA and Lerc SA for the income statement for the period<br />
ended 30.09.2006. The most important effects of the transition are described below. Please refer to the<br />
corresponding notes.<br />
(in 1000)<br />
2006 2006 2006 2006 2006<br />
01.01.-30.09. 01.01.-30.09. 01.01.-30.09. 01.01.-30.09. 01.01.-30.09.<br />
Notes<br />
FIDULERC<br />
SA<br />
FGAAP<br />
LERC SA<br />
FGAAP<br />
IFRS<br />
adjustments<br />
Fidulerc/Lerc<br />
IFRS<br />
EUR<br />
Fidulerc/Lerc<br />
IFRS<br />
NOK<br />
Operating revenues 0 8 093 0 8 093 64 529<br />
Operating expenses<br />
Cost of materials 3 018 0 3 018 24 065<br />
Payroll and social security<br />
expenses 5 1 290 6 1 296 10 336<br />
Depreciation 6 317 -50 266 2 125<br />
Other operating expenses 7 0 3 077 18 3 096 24 682<br />
Total operating expenses 0 7 702 -26 7 676 61 208<br />
Operating profit/loss 0 391 26 417 3 321<br />
Financial income/expenses<br />
Interest received 0 11 0 11 88<br />
Other financial income 0 13 0 13 103<br />
Other interest paid 0 -79 0 -79 -629<br />
Other financial expenses -43 0 -43 -340<br />
Net financial income/expenses 0 -98 0 -98 -779<br />
Profit before tax 0 293 26 319 2 542<br />
Taxes 8 0 23 76 99 791<br />
Profit for the year 0 270 -51 219 1 751<br />
IFRS adjustment comments:<br />
5. “Payroll and social security expenses”: TEUR 6 is increase in employee benefits liability that has<br />
been recognized in the period according to IFRS. According to French accounting standards,<br />
provision for the employee benefits liability is not compulsory and has not been recognized by<br />
Lerc. Under IFRS a provision is mandatory and the change in liability is recognized as a payroll<br />
expense.<br />
6. “Depreciation”: TEUR – 50 is reversal of additional depreciation made for tax purposes. French<br />
accounting standards permit this additional depreciation in the income statement. Under IFRS this<br />
additional depreciation is not recognized.<br />
7. “Other operating expenses”: TEUR 18 is government grants related to fixed asset which is added<br />
back to the income statement. Under IFRS these grants is accounted for as a reduction of cost of<br />
fixed assets.<br />
153
COMROD COMMUNICATION <strong>ASA</strong> – LISTING ON THE OSLO STOCK EXCHANGE<br />
8. “Tax”: TEUR 76. Income tax for the period (33.33%) is calculated to TEUR 68. Tax related to<br />
adjustment 5 - 7 above amount to 9. The tax recognized in the FGAAP statement is a standard tax<br />
applied whether the company has taxable income or not. Under IFRS temporary differences,<br />
including losses carried forward is recognized in the balance. Changes in temporary differences is<br />
recognized in and changes in the income statement.<br />
154
Comrod Communication <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Fiskåvegen 1<br />
4120 Tau<br />
Norway<br />
Tel: +47 51 74 05 00<br />
Fax: +47 51 74 05 01<br />
www.comrod.com<br />
First Securities <strong>ASA</strong><br />
Fjordalléen 16 – Aker Brygge<br />
P.O. Box 1441 Vika<br />
0115 Oslo<br />
Norway<br />
Tel: +47 23 23 80 00<br />
Fax: +47 23 23 80 01<br />
www.first.no<br />
www.kursiv.no