MOLSON COORS BEVERAGE CO

Previous wording

For over two centuries, we have been brewing beverages that unite people to celebrate all life’s moments. From our core power brands Coors Light, Miller Lite, Coors Banquet, Molson Canadian, Carling and Ožujsko to our above premium brands including Madri, Staropramen, Blue Moon Belgian Whiteand Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy, to our economy and value brands like Miller High Lifeand Keystone, we produce many beloved and iconic beer brands. While our Company’s history is rooted in beer, we offer a modern portfolio that expands beyond the beer aisle as well, including flavored beverages like Vizzy Hard Seltzer, spirits like Five Trail whiskey as well as non-alcoholic beverages. As a business, our ambition is to be the first choice for our people, our consumers and our customers, and our success depends on our ability to make our products available to meet a wide range of consumer segments and occasions.

Current wording

For more than two centuries, we have brewed beverages that unite people to celebrate all life’s moments. From our core power brands Coors Light, Miller Lite, Coors Banquet, Molson Canadian, Carling and Ožujsko to our above premium brands including Madrí Excepcional, Staropramen, Blue Moon Belgian White and Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy, to our economy and value brands like Miller High Life and Keystone Light, we produce many beloved and iconic beers. While our Company's history is rooted in beer, we offer a modern portfolio that expands beyond the beer aisle as well, including flavored beverages like Vizzy Hard Seltzer, spirits like Five Trail whiskey and non-alcoholic beverages. We also have partner brands, such as Simply Spiked, ZOA Energy, among others, through license, distribution, partnership and joint venture agreements. As a business, our ambition is to be the first choice for our people, our consumers and our customers, and our success depends on our ability to make our products available to meet a wide range of consumer segments and occasions.

Previous wording

During the first quarter of 2022, we recognized an impairment loss of $28.6 million related to the Truss joint venture asset group of which $12.1 million was attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Additionally, during the third quarter of 2023, we sold our controlling interest in Truss and recognized a loss of $11.1 million. These losses were recorded within other operating income (expense), net. See Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 17, "Other Operating Income (Expense), net" and Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 3, "Investments" for further information.

Current wording

During the first quarter of 2022, we recognized an impairment loss of $28.6 million related to the Truss LP ("Truss") joint venture asset group of which $12.1 million was attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Additionally, during the third quarter of 2023, we sold our controlling interest in Truss and recognized a loss of $11.1 million. These losses were recorded within other operating income (expense), net. See Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 17, "Other Operating Income (Expense), net" and Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 3, "Investments" for further information.

Previous wording

During the first quarter of 2022, we accrued a liability of $56.0 million within MG&A related to probable losses as a result of the ongoing Keystone litigation case. During the years ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 we accrued $1.9 million and $0.6 million, respectively, in associated interest related to this accrued liability. See Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 13, "Commitments and Contingencies" for further information.

Current wording

During the first quarter of 2022, we accrued a liability of $56.0 million within MG&A related to probable losses as a result of the ongoing Keystone litigation case. During the years ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 we accrued $2.1 million and $1.9 million, respectively, in associated interest related to this accrued liability. See Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 13, "Commitments and Contingencies" for further information.

Previous wording

In February 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine and the conflict remains ongoing. As a result, we suspended exports of all our brands to Russia and subsequently terminated the license to produce any of our brands in Russia. While not material to our consolidated net sales, the Russia-Ukraine conflict negatively impacted our EMEA&APAC segment net sales for the years ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022. In addition, the Russia-Ukraine conflict has caused a negative impact to the global economy which has impacted our Company, driving further increases to materials and manufacturing expenses as discussed in more detail above. See risk factors related to this conflict at Part I.—Item 1A. "Risk Factors".

Current wording

In February 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine and the conflict remains ongoing. As a result, we suspended exports of all our brands to Russia and subsequently terminated the license to produce any of our brands in Russia. While not material to our consolidated net sales, the Russia-Ukraine conflict negatively impacted our EMEA&APAC segment net sales for the years ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022. In addition, the Russia-Ukraine conflict has caused a negative impact to the global economy which has impacted our Company, driving further increases to materials and manufacturing expenses. See risk factors related to this conflict at Part I.—Item 1A. "Risk Factors".

Previous wording

•Cost of goods sold- Favorable impact of $1.0 million (favorable impact for Americas and Unallocated of $34.9 million and $1.8 million, respectively, partially offset by the unfavorable impact for EMEA&APAC of $35.7 million).

Current wording

•Cost of goods sold- Favorable impact of $0.6 million (favorable impact for Americas and Unallocated of $14.3 million and $0.4 million, respectively, partially offset by the unfavorable impact for EMEA&APAC of $14.1 million).

Previous wording

•MG&A - Favorable impact of $1.3 million (favorable impact for Americas of $14.2 million, partially offset by the unfavorable impact for EMEA&APAC of $12.9 million).

Current wording

•MG&A - Favorable impact of $2.8 million (favorable impact for Americas of $6.5 million, partially offset by the unfavorable impact for EMEA&APAC of $3.7 million).

Previous wording

The impacts of foreign currency movements on our consolidated USD results described above for the year ended December 31, 2023 were primarily due to the strength of the USD as compared to the CAD partially offset by the weakening of the USD as compared to all currencies throughout Europe in which we operate.

Current wording

The impacts of foreign currency movements on our consolidated USD results described above for the year ended December 31, 2024, were primarily due to the strengthening of the USD compared to the CAD and CZK, partially offset by the weakening of the USD compared to the GBP.

Previous wording

Financial volume represents owned or actively managed brands sold to unrelated external customers within our geographic markets (net of returns and allowances), as well as contract brewing, wholesale/factored non-owned volume and company-owned distribution volume. This metric is presented on an STW basis to reflect the sales from our operations to our direct customers, generally distributors. We believe this metric is important and useful for investors and management because it gives an indication of the amount of beer and adjacent products that we have produced and shipped to customers. This metric excludes royalty volume, which consists of our brands produced and sold under various license and contract brewing agreements. Factored volume in our EMEA&APAC segment is the distribution of beer, wine, spirits and other products owned and produced by other companies to the on-premise channel, which is a common arrangement in the U.K.

Current wording

Financial volume represents owned or actively managed brands sold to unrelated external customers within our geographic markets (net of returns and allowances), as well as contract brewing, factored non-owned volume and company-owned distribution volume. This metric is presented on a sales-to-wholesalers ("STW") basis to reflect the sales from our operations to our direct customers, generally distributors. We believe this metric is important and useful for investors and management because it gives an indication of the amount of beer and adjacent products that we have produced and shipped to customers. This metric excludes royalty volume, which consists of our brands produced and sold under various license and contract brewing agreements. Factored volume in our EMEA&APAC segment is the distribution of beer, wine, spirits and other products owned and produced by other companies to the on-premise channel such as bars and restaurants, which is a common arrangement in the U.K.

Previous wording

Net sales increased 8.2% for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to prior year, driven by favorable price and sales mix as well as higher financial volumes, partially offset by unfavorable foreign currency impacts.

Current wording

Net sales decreased 0.6% for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to prior year driven by lower financial volumes, partially offset by favorable price and sales mix.

Previous wording

We also utilize net sales per hectoliter and cost of goods sold per hectoliter, as well as the year over year changes in such metrics, as key metrics for analyzing our results. These metrics are calculated as net sales and cost of goods sold, respectively, per our consolidated statements of operations divided by financial volume for the respective period. We believe these metrics are important and useful for investors and management because they provide an indication of the trends in pricing and sales mix on our net sales and the trends of sales mix and other cost impacts such as inflation on our cost of goods sold.

Current wording

We utilize cost of goods sold per hectoliter, as well as the year over year changes in this metric, as a key metric for analyzing our results. This metric is calculated as cost of goods sold per our consolidated statements of operations divided by financial volume for the respective period. We believe this metric is important and useful for investors and management because it provides an indication of the trends of sales mix and other cost impacts on our cost of goods sold.

Previous wording

Cost of goods sold increased 4.1% for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to prior year, primarily due to higher cost of goods sold per hectoliter and higher financial volumes. Cost of goods sold per hectoliter increased 2.2% for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to prior year, primarily due to cost inflation related to materials and manufacturing expenses and unfavorable mix, partially offset by changes in our unrealized mark-to-market commodity derivative positions of $126.9 million, cost savings and volume leverage.

Current wording

Cost of goods sold decreased 3.3% for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to prior year, primarily due to lower financial volumes, partially offset by higher cost of goods sold per hectoliter. Cost of goods sold per hectoliter increased 1.8% for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to prior year, primarily due to cost inflation related to materials and manufacturing expenses, unfavorable mix driven by lower contract brewing volumes and volume deleverage in the Americas segment, partially offset by favorable changes in our unrealized mark-to-market commodity derivative positions of $133.0 million and cost savings initiatives.

Previous wording

See Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 17, "Other Operating Income (Expense), net" for detail of our other operating income (expense), net.

Current wording

Other operating expense, net improved 59.8% for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to prior year, primarily due to the cycling of a $160.7 million partial impairment charge to our indefinite-lived intangible asset related to the Staropramen family of brands recorded in the prior year as well as a $77.9 million gain recognized upon the consolidation of ZOA in the fourth quarter of 2024, partially offset by the costs incurred related to the wind down and sale of certain U.S. craft businesses and related restructuring costs including accelerated depreciation charges in excess of normal depreciation of $93.6 million as well as a $41.2 million loss on the disposal of the sold businesses. See Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 17, "Other Operating Income (Expense), net" for further detail of our other operating income (expense), net.

Previous wording

Our tax rate can be volatile and may change with, among other things, the amount and source of pretax income or loss, our ability to utilize foreign tax credits, excess tax benefits or deficiencies from share-based compensation, changes in tax laws and the movement of liabilities established pursuant to accounting guidance for uncertain tax positions as statutes of limitations expire, positions are effectively settled or when additional information becomes available. There are proposed or pending tax law changes in various jurisdictions and other changes to regulatory environments in countries in which we do business that, if enacted, could have an impact on our effective tax rate.

Current wording

Our effective tax rate can be volatile and may change with, among other things, the amount and source of pretax income or loss, our ability to utilize foreign tax credits, excess tax benefits or deficiencies from share-based compensation, changes in tax laws and the movement of liabilities established pursuant to accounting guidance for uncertain tax positions as statutes of limitations expire, positions are effectively settled or when additional information becomes available. There are proposed or pending tax law changes in various jurisdictions and other changes to regulatory environments in countries in which we do business that, if enacted, could have an impact on our effective tax rate.

Previous wording

Refer to Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 12, "Income Tax" for additional details regarding our effective tax rate.

Current wording

Refer to Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 12, "Income Tax" for further discussion regarding our effective tax rate.

Previous wording

(2)Excludes royalty volume of 2.683 million hectoliters, 2.719 million hectoliters and 2.507 million hectoliters for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Current wording

(2)Excludes royalty volume of 2.550 million hectoliters, 2.683 million hectoliters and 2.719 million hectoliters for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Previous wording

(2)Excludes royalty volume of 0.935 million hectoliters, 1.012 million hectoliters and 1.968 million hectoliters for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Current wording

(2)Excludes royalty volume of 1.185 million hectoliters, 0.935 million hectoliters and 1.012 million hectoliters for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Previous wording

Net sales increased 14.5% for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to prior year driven by favorable price and sales mix as well as favorable foreign currency impacts, partially offset by a decline in financial volumes.

Current wording

Net sales increased 5.0% for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to prior year, driven by favorable price and sales mix as well as favorable foreign currency impacts, partially offset by lower financial volumes.

Previous wording

Price and sales mix favorably impacted net sales and net sales per hectoliter forthe year ended December 31, 2023, by 14.7% and 15.2%, respectively, primarily due to increased net pricing including the rollover benefits from price increases taken in the previous year and favorable sales mix driven by geographic mix and premiumization.

Current wording

Price and sales mix favorably impacted net sales for the year ended December 31, 2024, by 6.7% primarily due to increased net pricing and favorable sales mix driven by premiumization and favorable channel mix.

Previous wording

We have certain activity that is not allocated to our segments, which has been reflected as "Unallocated" below. Specifically, "Unallocated" activity primarily includes financing-related costs such as interest expense and income, foreign exchange gains and losses on intercompany balances and realized and unrealized changes in fair value on instruments not designated in hedging relationships related to financing and other treasury-related activities and the unrealized changes in fair value on our commodity swaps not designated in hedging relationships recorded within cost of goods sold, which are later reclassified when realized to the segment in which the underlying exposure resides. Additionally, only the service cost component of net periodic pension and OPEB cost is reported within each operating segment, and all other components remain unallocated.

Current wording

We have certain activity that is not allocated to our segments, which has been reflected as Unallocated below. Specifically, Unallocated primarily includes certain financing-related activities such as interest expense and interest income, foreign exchange gains and losses on intercompany balances as well as realized and unrealized changes in fair value on derivative instruments not designated in hedging relationships related to financing and other treasury-related activities. Unallocated activity also includes the unrealized changes in fair value on our commodity swaps not designated in hedging relationships recorded within cost of goods sold, which are later reclassified when realized to the segment in which the underlying exposure resides. Additionally, only the service cost component of net periodic pension and OPEB cost is reported within each operating segment, and all other components remain unallocated.

Previous wording

Total non-operating expense, net decreased 13.0% for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to prior year primarily due to lower net interest expense and the favorable impact of transactional foreign currency, partially offset by lower pension and OPEB non-service net benefit.

Current wording

Total non-operating expense, net increased 10.5% for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to prior year primarily due to a settlement loss of $34.0 million recorded as a result of Canadian pension plan annuity purchases and lower favorable transactional foreign currency impacts, partially offset by higher pension and OPEB non-service benefits and higher interest income from higher cash balances.

Previous wording

See Part II - Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 9, "Debt" for further details on our debt instruments. See Part II - Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 11, "Employee Retirement Plans and Postretirement Benefits" for further discussion of pension and OPEB.

Current wording

See Part II - Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 11, "Employee Retirement Plans and Postretirement Benefits" for further discussion of pension and OPEB.

Previous wording

While a significant portion of our cash flows from operating activities are generated within the U.S., our cash balances include cash held outside the U.S. and in currencies other than the USD. As of December 31, 2023, approximately 61% of our cash and cash equivalents were located outside the U.S., largely denominated in foreign currencies. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates have had and may continue to have a material impact on these foreign cash balances. Cash balances in foreign countries are often subject to additional restrictions. We may, therefore, have difficulties timely repatriating cash held outside the U.S., and such repatriation may be subject to tax. These limitations may affect our ability to fully utilize our cash resources for needs in the U.S. and other countries and may adversely affect our liquidity. To the extent necessary, we accrue for tax consequences on the earnings of our foreign subsidiaries as they are earned. We may utilize tax planning and financing strategies in an effort to ensure that our worldwide cash is available in the locations in which it is needed. We periodically review and evaluate these plans and strategies, including externally committed and non-committed credit agreements accessible by our Company and each of our operating subsidiaries. We believe these financing arrangements, along with the cash generated from the operations of our U.S. business, are sufficient to fund our current cash needs in the U.S.

Current wording

While a significant portion of our cash flows from operating activities are generated within the U.S., our cash balances include cash held outside the U.S. and in currencies other than the USD. As of December 31, 2024, approximately 55% of our cash and cash equivalents were located outside the U.S., largely denominated in foreign currencies. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates have had and may continue to have a material impact on these foreign cash balances. Cash balances in foreign countries are often subject to additional restrictions. We may, therefore, have difficulties timely repatriating cash held outside the U.S., and such repatriation may be subject to tax. These limitations may affect our ability to fully utilize our cash resources for needs in the U.S. and other countries and may adversely affect our liquidity. To the extent necessary, we accrue for tax consequences on the earnings of our foreign subsidiaries as they are earned. We may utilize tax planning and financing strategies in an effort to ensure that our worldwide cash is available in the locations in which it is needed. We periodically review and evaluate these plans and strategies, including externally committed and non-committed credit agreements accessible by our Company and each of our operating subsidiaries. We believe these financing arrangements, along with cash flows from operating activities within the U.S., are sufficient to fund our current cash needs in the U.S.

Previous wording

For purposes of this disclosure, including the tables, "Parent Issuer" shall mean MCBC in its capacity as the issuer of the senior notes under the May 2012 Indenture and the July 2016 Indenture. "Subsidiary Guarantors" shall mean certain Canadian and U.S. subsidiaries reflecting the substantial operations of our Americas segment.

Current wording

For purposes of this disclosure, including the tables, "Parent Issuer" shall mean MCBC in its capacity as the issuer of the senior notes under the May 2012 Indenture, the July 2016 Indenture and the May 2024 Indenture. "Subsidiary Guarantors" shall mean certain Canadian and U.S. subsidiaries reflecting the substantial operations of our Americas segment.

Previous wording

Pursuant to the indenture dated May 3, 2012 (as amended, the "May 2012 Indenture"), MCBC issued its outstanding 5.0% senior notes due 2042. Additionally, pursuant to the indenture dated July 7, 2016 ("July 2016 Indenture"), MCBC issued its outstanding 3.0% senior notes due 2026, 4.2% senior notes due 2046 and 1.25% senior notes due 2024. The issuances of the senior notes issued under the May 2012 Indenture and the July 2016 Indenture were registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These senior notes are guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by certain subsidiaries of MCBC, which are listed in Exhibit 22 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K (the Subsidiary Guarantors, and together with the Parent Issuer, the "Obligor Group"). Each of the Subsidiary Guarantors is 100% owned by the Parent Issuer. The guarantees are full and unconditional and joint and several.

Current wording

Pursuant to the indenture dated May 3, 2012 (as amended, the "May 2012 Indenture"), MCBC issued its outstanding 5.0% senior notes due 2042. Additionally, pursuant to the indenture dated July 7, 2016 ("July 2016 Indenture"), MCBC issued its outstanding 3.0% senior notes due 2026, 4.2% senior notes due 2046 and 1.25% senior notes due 2024 (subsequently repaid upon maturity on July 15, 2024). Further, pursuant to the indenture dated May 29, 2024 ("May 2024 Indenture"), MCBC issued its outstanding 3.8% senior notes due 2032. The issuances of the senior notes issued under the May 2012 Indenture, the July 2016 Indenture and the May 2024 Indenture were registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. These senior notes are guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by certain subsidiaries of MCBC, which are listed in Exhibit 22 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K (the Subsidiary Guarantors, and together with the Parent Issuer, the "Obligor Group"). Each of the Subsidiary Guarantors is 100% owned by the Parent Issuer. The guarantees are full and unconditional and joint and several.

Previous wording

The senior notes and related guarantees rank pari-passu with all other unsubordinated debt of the Obligor Group and senior to all future subordinated debt of the Obligor Group. The guarantees can be released upon the sale or transfer of a Subsidiary Guarantors' capital stock or substantially all of its assets, or if such Subsidiary Guarantor ceases to be a guarantor under our other outstanding debt.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, the senior notes and related guarantees rank pari-passu with all other unsubordinated debt of the Obligor Group and senior to all future subordinated debt of the Obligor Group. The guarantees can be released upon the sale or transfer of a Subsidiary Guarantors' capital stock or substantially all of its assets, or if such Subsidiary Guarantor ceases to be a guarantor under our other outstanding debt.

Previous wording

Our business historically generates positive operating cash flows each year and our debt maturities are generally of a longer-term nature. However, our liquidity could be impacted significantly by the risk factors described in Part I, Item 1A. "Risk Factors".

Current wording

Our business historically generates positive operating cash flows each year and our debt maturities are generally of a longer-term nature. See the debt maturity profile graph below or refer to Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 9, "Debt" for further details of our debt maturity profile. However, our liquidity could be impacted significantly by the risk factors described in Part I—Item 1A. Risk Factors.

Previous wording

Net cash used in investing activities of $841.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 increased $216.6 million compared to $625.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. The increase in net cash used in investing activities was primarily due to higher acquisitions, lower proceeds from the sales of properties and other assets, as well as higher capital expenditures.

Current wording

Net cash used in investing activities of $648.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, decreased $193.7 million from $841.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily due to cash paid in the prior year for an acquisition and other investing activities, as well as higher proceeds in the current year from the sale of the U.S. craft businesses.

Previous wording

Net cash used in financing activities of $981.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 increased $91.9 million compared to $889.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. The increase in net cash used in financing activities was primarily due to higher Class B common stock share repurchases, higher dividend payments, partially offset by lower net debt repayments.

Current wording

Net cash used in financing activities of $1,138.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, increased $157.0 million from $981.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily due to higher Class B common stock share repurchases and a payment to acquire the noncontrolling interest in CBPL, partially offset by lower net debt repayments.

Previous wording

We had total cash and cash equivalents of $868.9 million as of December 31, 2023, compared to $600.0 million as of December 31, 2022. The increase in cash and cash equivalents from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2023 was primarily due to the net cash provided by operating activities, partially offset by capital expenditures, net debt repayments, including the repayment of our CAD 500 million 2.84% note which matured in July 2023, dividend payments, Class B common stock share repurchases, as well as cash paid for the acquisition of businesses. See Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for additional detail.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, we had total cash and cash equivalents of $969.3 million, compared to $868.9 million as of December 31, 2023. The increase in cash and cash equivalents from December 31, 2023, was primarily due to net cash provided by operating activities, as well as the issuance of new EUR 800 million 3.80% senior notes due 2032. This was partially offset by debt repayments, including the repayment of our EUR 800 million 1.25% senior notes which matured in July 2024, capital expenditures, Class B common stock share repurchases, dividend payments and payment to acquire the noncontrolling interest in CBPL. See Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for additional detail.

Previous wording

We repaid our CAD 500 million 2.84% notes upon their maturity on July 15, 2023 using cash on hand. Refer to Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 9, "Debt" for details.

Current wording

We repaid our EUR 800 million 1.25% senior notes upon their maturity on July 15, 2024, using the cash proceeds from our EUR 800 million 3.80% senior notes issued on May 29, 2024, and cash on hand. Refer to Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 9, "Debt" for details.

Previous wording

Based on the credit profile of our lenders that are party to our credit facilities, we are confident in our ability to draw on our revolving credit facility if the need arises. On June 26, 2023, we amended and restated our multi-currency revolving credit facility. Among other things, the term was extended through June 26, 2028, and the borrowing capacity was increased to $2.0 billion. This $2.0 billion revolving credit facility amended our pre-existing $1.5 billion revolving credit facility, which would have matured on July 7, 2024. On September 28, 2023, we amended our commercial paper program, which reduces borrowing capacity under the revolving credit facility, to a maximum borrowing capacity of $2.0 billion to borrow at any time at variable interest rates. The $150.0 million sub-facility available for the issuance of letters of credit remains unchanged. As of December 31, 2023, we had $2.0 billion available to draw on our $2.0 billion revolving credit facility. As of December 31, 2023, we had no borrowings drawn on this revolving credit facility and no commercial paper borrowings.

Current wording

Based on the credit profile of our lenders that are party to our credit facilities, we are confident in our ability to draw on our revolving credit facility if the need arises. On June 3, 2024, we amended our existing $2.0 billion multi-currency revolving credit facility to, among other things, extend the maturity date from June 26, 2028 to June 26, 2029. As of December 31, 2024, we had $2.0 billion available to draw on our amended and restated $2.0 billion multi-currency revolving credit facility. As of December 31, 2024, we had no borrowings drawn on this amended and restated multi-currency revolving credit facility and no commercial paper borrowings.

Previous wording

The maximum net debt to EBITDA leverage ratio, as defined by the amended and restated revolving credit facility agreement, was 4.00x as of December 31, 2023 which remained unchanged from the requirement as of December 31, 2022. As of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, we were in compliance with all of these restrictions and covenants, have met such financial ratios and have met all debt payment obligations. All of our outstanding senior notes as of December 31, 2023 rank pari-passu.

Current wording

The maximum net debt to EBITDA leverage ratio, as defined by the amended and restated multi-currency revolving credit facility agreement, was 4.00x as of December 31, 2024, and December 31, 2023. As of December 31, 2024, and December 31, 2023, we were in compliance with all of these restrictions and covenants, have met such financial ratios and have met all debt payment obligations. All of our outstanding senior notes as of December 31, 2024, rank pari-passu.

Previous wording

See Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 9, "Debt", Note 11, "Employee Retirement Plans and Postretirement Benefits," Note 10, "Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities," Note 13, "Commitments and Contingencies" and Note 8, "Leases" for additional information.

Current wording

See Part II—Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, Note 9, "Debt," Note 8, "Leases," Note 11, "Employee Retirement Plans and Postretirement Benefits," Note 10, "Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities," and Note 13, "Commitments and Contingencies" for additional information.

Previous wording

(1)Represents expected contributions of $3.6 million under our defined benefit pension plans in the next twelve months and our benefit payments under postretirement benefit plans through 2033. The net underfunded liability as of December 31, 2023 of our defined benefit pension plans (excluding our overfunded plans) and postretirement benefit plans is $38.1 million and $470.6 million, respectively. Defined benefit pension plan contributions in future years will vary based on a number of factors, including actual plan asset returns and interest rates, and thus, have been excluded from the above table.

Current wording

(1)Primarily represents expected benefit payments under our OPEB plans through 2033. The net underfunded liability as of December 31, 2024, of our defined benefit pension plans (excluding our overfunded plans) and OPEB plans is $34.9 million and $423.0 million, respectively. Defined benefit pension plan contributions in future years will vary based on a number of factors, including actual plan asset returns and interest rates, and thus, have been excluded from the above table.

Previous wording

Our current long-term credit ratings are BBB/Stable Outlook, Baa2/Positive Outlook and BBB/Stable Outlook with Standard & Poor's, Moody's and DBRS, respectively. Our short-term credit ratings are A-2, Prime-2 and R-2, respectively. A securities rating is not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities, and it may be revised or withdrawn at any time by the applicable rating agency.

Current wording

Our current long-term credit ratings are BBB/Stable Outlook, Baa1/Stable Outlook and BBB/Stable Outlook with Standard & Poor's, Moody's and DBRS, respectively. Our short-term credit ratings are A-2, Prime-2 and R-2, respectively. A securities rating is not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities, and it may be revised or withdrawn at any time by the applicable rating agency.

Previous wording

We incurred $688.6 million, and paid $671.5 million, for capital improvement projects worldwide for the year ended December 31, 2023, excluding capital spending by equity method joint ventures, representing a decrease of $6.1 million from the $694.7 million of capital expenditures incurred for the year ended December 31, 2022. We continue to focus on where and how we employ our planned capital expenditures, with an emphasis on strengthening our focus on required returns on invested capital as we determine how to best allocate cash within the business.

Current wording

We incurred $720.8 million, and paid $674.1 million, for capital improvement projects worldwide for the year ended December 31, 2024, excluding capital spending by equity method joint ventures, representing an increase of $32.2 million from the $688.6 million of capital expenditures incurred for the year ended December 31, 2023. We continue to focus on where and how we employ our planned capital expenditures, with an emphasis on obtaining required returns on invested capital as we determine how to best allocate cash within the business.

Previous wording

Our defined benefit pension plans cover certain current and former employees in the U.S., Canada and the U.K. Benefit accruals for the majority of employees in our U.S. and U.K. plans have been frozen and the plans are closed to new entrants. In the U.S., we also participate in, and make contributions to, multi-employer pension plans. Our OPEB plans provide medical benefits for retirees and their eligible dependents as well as life insurance and, in some cases, dental and vision coverage, for certain retirees in the U.S., Canada and Europe. The U.S., Canada and U.K. defined benefit pension plans are primarily funded, but all OPEB plans are unfunded. We also offer defined contribution plans in each of our segments.

Current wording

Our defined benefit pension plans cover certain current and former employees in the U.S., Canada and the U.K. Benefit accruals for the majority of employees in our U.S. and U.K. plans have been frozen and the plans are closed to new entrants. In the U.S., we also participate in, and make contributions to, multi-employer pension plans. Further, our OPEB plans provide medical benefits for retirees and their eligible dependents as well as life insurance and, in some cases, dental and vision coverage, for certain retirees in the U.S., Canada and Europe. The defined benefit pension plans are primarily funded, but all OPEB plans are unfunded. We also offer defined contribution plans in each of our segments.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, on a weighted-average basis, the discount rates used were 4.74% for our defined benefit pension plans and 4.64% for our OPEB plans. The change from the weighted-average discount rates of 5.01% for our defined benefit pension plans and 4.90% for our OPEB plans as of December 31, 2022 was primarily due to a decrease in interest rates at the end of 2023 across all plans.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, on a weighted-average basis, the discount rates used were 5.41% for our defined benefit pension plans and 5.15% for our OPEB plans. The change from the weighted-average discount rates of 4.74% for our defined benefit pension plans and 4.64% for our OPEB plans as of December 31, 2023, was primarily due to an increase in interest rates in 2024, particularly for our U.S. and U.K. plans.

Previous wording

The assumed long-term expected return on assets is used to estimate the actual return that will occur on each individual funded plan's respective plan assets in the upcoming year. We determine each plan's EROA with substantial input from independent investment specialists, including our actuaries and our outsourced investment consultant. In developing each plan's EROA, we consider current and expected asset allocations, historical market rates as well as historical and expected returns on each plan's individual asset classes. In developing future return expectations for each of our plan's assets, we evaluate general market trends as well as key elements of asset class returns such as expected earnings growth, yields and spreads. The calculation includes inputs for interest, inflation, credit and risk premium (active investment management) rates and fees paid to service providers. Based on the above factors and expected asset allocations, we have assumed, on a weighted-average basis, an EROA of 5.47% for our defined benefit pension plan assets for cost recognition in 2024. This is an increase from the weighted-average rate of 4.91% we assumed for 2023, primarily due to the increases seen in interest rates throughout the majority of 2023 causing higher expected future fixed income returns. We believe that our EROA assumptions are appropriate; however, significant changes in our assumptions or actual returns that differ significantly from estimated returns may materially affect our net periodic pension costs.

Current wording

The assumed long-term expected return on assets is used to estimate the actual return that will occur on each individual funded plan's respective plan assets in the upcoming year. We determine each plan's EROA with substantial input from independent investment specialists, including our actuaries and our outsourced investment consultants. In developing each plan's EROA, we consider current and expected asset allocations, historical market rates as well as historical and expected returns on each plan's individual asset classes. In developing future return expectations for each of our plan's assets, we evaluate general market trends as well as key elements of asset class returns such as expected earnings growth, yields and spreads. The calculation includes inputs for interest, inflation, credit and risk premium (active investment management) rates and fees paid to service providers. Based on the above factors and expected asset allocations, we have assumed, on a weighted-average basis, an EROA of 5.70% for our defined benefit pension plan assets for cost recognition in 2025. This is an increase from the weighted-average rate of 5.47% we assumed for 2024, primarily due to the increase in interest rates in 2024 causing higher expected future fixed income returns. We believe that our EROA assumptions are appropriate; however, significant changes in our assumptions or actual returns that differ significantly from estimated returns may materially affect our net periodic pension costs.

Previous wording

A 50 basis point change in our expected return on assets assumptions made at the beginning of 2023 would have had the following effects on 2023 net periodic pension and postretirement benefit costs.

Current wording

A 50 basis point change in our EROA assumptions made at the beginning of 2024 would have had the following effects on 2024 net periodic pension and postretirement benefit costs.