Sotera Health Co
For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Feb 27, 2025.
View on SEC.govAbout this filing
A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2024 · Filed Feb 27, 2025
Extracted filing text, with the paragraph anchors used by the comparison.
See the whole filing, with its images and exhibitsContents
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
- Significant Accounting Policies
Principles of Consolidation – Sotera Health Company (also referred to herein as the “Company,” “we,” “our,” “us” or “its”), is a leading global provider of mission-critical end-to-end sterilization solutions, lab testing and advisory services for the healthcare industry with operations primarily in the Americas, Europe and Asia.
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the assets, liabilities, operating results, and cash flows of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
We operate and report inthree segments, Sterigenics, Nordion and Nelson Labs. We describe our reportable segments in Note 21, “Segment and Geographic Information.” All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Use of Estimates – In preparing our consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP, we make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported and the accompanying notes. We regularly evaluate the estimates and assumptions used and revise them as new information becomes available. Actual results may vary from those estimates.
Cash and Cash Equivalents – We consider all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less from the date of purchase to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents may include various deposit accounts and money market funds.
Accounts Receivable -Accounts receivable consists of amounts billed and currently due from customers. The amounts due are stated net of the allowance for uncollectible accounts. The Company maintains an allowance for uncollectible receivables to provide for the estimated amount of receivables that will not be collected.
Allowance for Uncollectible Accounts Receivable– We maintain an allowance for uncollectible accounts receivable for estimated losses in the collection of amounts owed to us by customers. We estimate the allowance based on analyzing a number of factors, including amounts written off historically, customer payment practices, customer financial information and credit ratings, current market conditions as well as the expected future economic conditions that may impact the collection of accounts receivable. We also analyze significant customer accounts on a regular basis and record a specific allowance when we become aware of a specific customer’s inability to pay. We generally do not charge interest on accounts receivable or require collateral from our customers.
We record write-offs against the allowance for uncollectible accounts receivable when all reasonable efforts for collection have been exhausted. As a result, the related accounts receivable are reduced to an amount that we reasonably believe is collectible. These analyses require judgment. If the financial condition of our customers worsens, or economic conditions change, we may be required to make changes to our allowance for uncollectible accounts receivable.
Inventories – Inventories as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 are held at Nordion. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Cost of material, labor, and manufacturing overhead are determined using standard cost, which approximates average cost. We review inventory on an ongoing basis, considering factors such as deterioration and obsolescence. We record a reserve for excess and obsolete inventory, which was immaterial at December 31, 2024 and 2023, when the facts and circumstances indicate that particular inventories will not be usable. If future market conditions vary from those projected, and our estimates prove to be inaccurate, we may be required to write-down inventory values and record an adjustment to cost of revenues.
Property, Plant, and Equipment – Property, plant, and equipment is carried at cost, or initially at fair value if acquired in an acquisition, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Except for Co-60, a radioactive isotope used in gamma radiation sterilization, all property, plant, and equipment depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over estimated useful lives. Leasehold improvements are amortized over their estimated useful lives or the term of the related lease, whichever is shorter. Co-60 is amortized using an accelerated method, which relates to the natural radioactive decay of the isotope over its estimated useful life which is approximately twenty years. Amortization of Co-60 is included within depreciation expense as a cost of revenue. Expenditures for major software purchases and software developed for internal use are capitalized and depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets, which are generallyone tofive years. For software obtained or developed for internal use, all external direct costs for materials and services and certain personnel costs incurred to develop the software during the application development stage are capitalized. At December 31, 2024 and 2023, we had undepreciated software costs of $11.4 million and $7.9 million, respectively, included in property, plant, and equipment, net. We recognized $4.2 million, $3.3 million and $2.2 million, of depreciation expense related to software costs for the years ending December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Depreciation is computed using the assets’ estimated useful lives as presented below:
| Buildings and building improvements | 15–44 years |
|---|---|
| Machinery and equipment | 3–30 years |
| Leasehold improvements | 2–20 years |
| Furniture and fixtures | 3–10 years |
| Computer hardware and software | 1–7 years |
From time to time, we build or expand facilities. The cost of construction of these facilities is reflected as construction-in-progress until the asset is ready for its intended use, at which time the costs are reclassified to the appropriate depreciable category of property, plant, and equipment and depreciation commences. Fixed asset projects requiring one or more years to complete construction qualify for capitalization of interest costs in accordance with our policy. Interest related to property, plant and equipment projects with a construction period of less than one year are not capitalized and are immaterial. Repairs and maintenance costs that do not extend the useful life of an asset are expensed as incurred.
Upon sale or retirement of assets, the cost and related accumulated depreciation is removed from the Consolidated Balance Sheets, and the resulting gain or loss is reflected as a component of operating income.
Leases– We determine if an agreement contains a lease and classify our leases as operating or finance at the lease commencement date. Leases with an initial term of twelve months or less are recognized as lease expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term and are not recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Non-lease components are accounted for separately from the lease components for all asset classes.
Finance leases are those in which we will pay substantially all the underlying asset’s fair value or will use the asset for all or a major part of its economic life, including circumstances in which we will ultimately own the asset. Lease assets arising from finance leases are included in “Property, plant and equipment, net” and the liabilities are included in “Finance lease obligations” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. For finance leases, we recognize interest expense using the effective interest method and we recognize amortization expense on the lease asset over the shorter of the lease term or the useful life of asset. Finance leases are accounted for as if the assets were owned and financed, with associated expense recognized in “Interest expense, net” and “Cost of revenues” or “Selling, general and administrative expenses” within the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) depending on the nature of the underlying asset.
Operating lease assets and liabilities are recognized at the commencement date of the lease based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. Lease assets represent the right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent the obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. As most leases do not provide an implicit interest rate, we estimate an incremental borrowing rate to determine the present value of lease payments. Our estimated incremental borrowing rate reflects a secured rate based on recent debt issuances, our estimated credit rating, and lease term. We recognize operating lease costs on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease in “Cost of revenues” or “Selling, general and administrative expenses” on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) depending on the nature of the underlying asset.
Goodwill and Other Indefinite-Lived Intangibles – Goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets, primarily certain regulatory licenses and tradenames, are tested for impairment annually as of October 1. If circumstances change during interim periods between annual tests that would indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable, the Company tests such assets at an interim date for impairment. Factors that necessitate an interim impairment assessment include prolonged negative industry or economic trends and significant underperformance relative to historical or projected future operating results.
We performed a quantitative assessment of all reporting units (Sterigenics, Nordion and Nelson Labs) as of October 1, 2024. The fair value of each reporting unit was calculated using a discounted cash flow analysis which was dependent on subjective market participant assumptions determined by management. We further corroborated these discounted cash flow analyses utilizing a market approach to determine the estimated enterprise fair value. Assumptions used in the analyses included discount rates, revenue growth rates and projected operating cash flows. Estimates of future cash flows are based upon relevant data at a point-in-time, are subject to change, and could vary from actual results. The estimated fair value of each reporting unit exceeded its carrying amount by a sufficient margin to support a positive assertion that goodwill isnot impaired. We performed a qualitative impairment assessment to evaluate any potential impairment to the indefinite-lived intangible assets. We considered significant events and circumstances that could affect the significant inputs used to determine the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets, and determined, after considering the totality of evidence that it is not more likely than not that the indefinite-lived intangible assets are impaired. There have been no other significant events or circumstances that occurred since the annual assessment date of October 1 that would change the conclusions reached above.
Derivative Instruments – We may enter into derivative instruments and hedging activities to manage, where possible and economically efficient, commodity price risk, foreign currency exchange rate risk and interest rate risk related to borrowings. We also have identified embedded derivatives in certain supply and customer contracts. Certain interest rate derivatives are designated as cash flow hedges allowing for changes in fair value to be recorded through “Other comprehensive income (loss).” Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) will be reclassified into earnings in the same periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings and are presented in “Interest expense, net” within the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). Derivatives not designated as hedges are recorded at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, with any changes in the value being recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in the same line item as the corresponding hedged item. We classify cash flows from derivative instruments and hedging activities as cash flows from operating activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. To the extent derivative arrangements are with the same counterparty and contractual right of offset exists under applicable master agreements, we offset assets and liabilities for reporting on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Pension, Post-Retirement and Other Post-Employment Benefit Plans –We sponsor a defined-contribution retirement plan that covers substantially all U.S. employees. We also sponsor various post-employment benefit plans at our Nordion business in Canada, including defined benefit and defined contribution pension plans, retirement compensation arrangements and plans that provide extended health care coverage to retired employees. In addition, we provide other benefit plans at our foreign subsidiaries, including a supplemental retirement arrangement, a retirement and termination allowance and post-retirement benefit plans, which include contributory healthcare benefits and contributory life insurance coverage. All non-pension post-employment benefit plans are unfunded.
These costs and obligations are affected by assumptions including the discount rate, the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, the annual rate of change in compensation for eligible employees, estimated changes in costs of healthcare benefits, and other demographic and economic factors. We review the assumptions used on an annual basis.
We recognize the over/under funded status of defined benefit pension and post-retirement benefits plans in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. This amount is measured as the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the projected benefit obligation (“PBO”). Changes in the funded status of the plans are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) in the year they occur. We measure plan assets and obligations as of the balance sheet date. We provide additional information about our pension and other post-retirement benefits plans in Note 11, “Employee Benefits.”
Amortization of net gain or loss included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) is reclassified to net periodic pension cost if, as of the beginning of the year, that gain or loss exceeds 10% of the greater of the PBO or the market related value of the plan assets (the ‘corridor’). As most of the plan’s participants are no longer actively accruing benefits, the average remaining life expectancy is used.
Asset Retirement Obligations (“ARO”) – ARO are legal obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived assets or the exit of a leased facility. We recognize a liability for an ARO in the period in which it is incurred if a reasonable estimate of fair value can be made, and the associated asset retirement costs are then capitalized as part of the carrying amount of the long-lived asset. We lease various facilities where sterilization and ionization services are performed. Under the lease agreements, we are required to return the facilities to their original condition and to perform decommissioning activities. In addition, certain of our owned facilities are required to be decommissioned when we vacate the facility. Accretion expense is recognized in cost of revenues in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) over time as the discounted liability is accreted to its expected settlement value.
Debt Issuance Costs, Premiums and Discounts – We have incurred costs in connection with obtaining financing as well as premiums and discounts associated with our long-term debt. The portion of these fees that are capitalized are recorded as a reduction of debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and amortized into interest expense over the term of the debt agreement. Debt issuance costs associated with the Company’s revolving credit facilities are classified as assets unless there are outstanding borrowings under such arrangements.
Concentration of Credit Risk, Other Risks and Uncertainties – We maintain cash and cash equivalents in the form of demand deposits in accounts with major financial institutions in the U.S. and in countries where our subsidiaries operate. Deposits in these institutions may exceed amounts of insurance provided on such accounts. We have not experienced any losses on our deposits of cash and cash equivalents.
Our net revenues and accounts receivable are derived from customers located primarily in North America and Europe.
No customer accounted for 10% or more of accounts receivable at December 31, 2024 and 2023, or 10% or more of net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022.
Income Taxes –We use the liability method of accounting for income taxes whereby we recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax consequences of temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the consolidated financial statements. Deferred tax assets will be reduced by a valuation allowance if, based on management’s estimate, it is more likely than not that a portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized in a future period. The estimates used in the recognition of deferred tax assets are subject to revision in future periods based on new facts and circumstances.
We determine whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. In evaluating whether a tax position has met the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, we presume that the position will be examined by the appropriate taxing authority and that the taxing authority will have full knowledge of all relevant information. A tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold is measured at the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Determining what constitutes an individual tax position and whether the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold is met for a tax position are matters of judgment based on the individual facts and circumstances of that position evaluated in light of all available evidence. We review and adjust tax estimates periodically because of ongoing examinations by, and settlements with, the various taxing authorities, as well as changes in tax laws, regulations, and precedent. We are subject to a tax on Global Intangible Low Taxed Income (“GILTI”) which we record as a period cost.
Our policy is to recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters as a component of the provision for income taxes in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
Foreign Currency Translation – The functional currency of our foreign subsidiaries is generally the local currency. Accordingly, assets and liabilities are generally translated into U.S. dollars at the current rates of exchange as of the balance sheet date, and revenues and expenses are translated using weighted-average rates prevailing during the period. Adjustments from foreign currency translation are included as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).
Gains or losses arising from foreign currency transactions are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) as foreign exchange loss (gain). The Company routinely enters into foreign currency forward contracts to manage foreign currency exchange rate risk of our intercompany loans in certain of our international subsidiaries and non-functional currency assets and liabilities. The foreign currency forward contracts expire on a monthly basis. For theyears ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, foreign exchange loss related primarily to short-term losses (offset by short-term gains) on sales denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of our operating entities.
Revenue Recognition – Revenue is recognized when control of promised goods or services is transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The majority of our sales agreements contain performance obligations satisfied at a point-in-time when control of promised goods or services have transferred to our customers. Sales recognized over time are generally accounted for using an input measure to determine progress completed as of the end of the period.
Refunds, returns, warranties and other related obligations are not material to any of our segments and we do not incur material incremental costs to secure customer contracts.
Our Sterigenics segment provides outsourced terminal sterilization and irradiation services for the medical device, pharmaceutical, food safety and advanced applications markets. We typically have multiyear service contracts with our significant customers, and these sales contracts are primarily based on customers’ purchase orders. Given the relatively short turnaround times, performance obligations are generally satisfied at a point-in-time upon the completion of sterilization or irradiation processing and approval by our quality assurance process. Sterigenics segment revenues are included in service revenues in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
Our Nordion segment is a global provider of Co-60 and gamma irradiation systems, which are key components to the gamma sterilization process. Revenue from the sale of Co-60 sources is recognized as product revenue at a point-in-time upon satisfaction of our performance obligations for delivery of existing sources. Revenue from the sale of gamma irradiation systems is recognized as product revenue over time using an input measure of costs incurred and is immaterial to the overall business. Revenues from Co-60 installation and disposal and gamma irradiation systems refurbishments and installations are recognized as service revenue.
Our Nelson Labs segment provides outsourced microbiological and analytical chemistry testing and advisory services for the medical device and pharmaceutical industries. We provide our customers mission-critical lab testing services, which assess the product quality, effectiveness, patient safety and end-to-end sterility of products. These services are necessary for our customers’ regulatory approvals, product releases and ongoing product performance evaluations. Nelson Labs services are generally provided on a fee-for-service or project basis, and we recognize revenues over time using an input measure of time incurred to determine progress completed at the end of the period. Nelson Labs segment revenues are included in service revenues in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
We do not capitalize sales commissions because substantially all of our sales commission programs have an amortization period of one year or less. Furthermore, costs to fulfill a contract are not material.
Provisions for discounts, rebates to customers, and other adjustments are provided for as reductions in net revenues in the period the related sale is recorded. Shipping and handling charges billed to customers are included in net revenues, and the related shipping and handling costs are included in cost of net revenues on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). Taxes assessed by a governmental authority that are both imposed on and concurrent with a specific revenue-producing transaction, that are collected by us from a customer, are excluded from net revenue.
Payment terms vary by the type and location of the customer and the products or services offered. Generally, the time between when revenue is recognized and when payment is due is not significant. We do not evaluate whether the selling price contains a financing component for contracts that have a duration of less than one year.
Share-Based Compensation – Equity-based awards issued to employees under the Sotera Health Company 2020 Omnibus Incentive Plan (“2020 Plan”) include restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and stock options that vest over time. Prior to our initial public offering (the “IPO” as described in Note 14, “Stockholders' Equity”), equity-based awards were issued to employees and non-employee directors in the form of partnership interests in our predecessor, Sotera Health Topco Parent, L.P. (“Topco Parent”), which vested based on either time (“time vesting awards”) or the achievement of certain performance and market conditions (“performance awards” and, together with the time vesting awards, the “pre-IPO awards”). In connection with the IPO, Topco Parent made in-kind distributions of restricted shares of our common stock to holders of pre-IPO awards as described in Note 14, “Stockholders' Equity.” The restricted shares of our common stock distributed in respect of pre-IPO time vesting awards vest through June 2025; expense related to these unvested awards will be recognized over the remaining vesting period. Expense attributable to the performance awards was recognized in its entirety in the year ended December 31, 2020 as the related performance conditions were considered probable of achievement and the implied service condition was met. Share-based compensation expense is recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), primarily within “Selling, general and administrative expenses” at the grant date fair value over the requisite service period (one tofour years for awards granted under the 2020 Plan andfive years for time vesting pre-IPO awards on a straight-line basis). Fair value of the pre-IPO awards was estimated on the date of grant using a simulation-based option valuation model incorporating multiple and variable assumptions over time, including assumptions such as employee forfeitures, unit price volatility and dividend assumptions. We use the Black-Scholes option pricing model to measure the grant date fair value of stock options awarded under the 2020 Plan using certain valuation assumptions. Share-based compensation expense for all awards recognizes forfeitures as they occur.
Earnings (Loss) Per Share– In periods in which the Company has net income, earnings per share information is determined using the two-class method, which includes the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period and securities that participate in dividends (“participating securities”). Our unvested restricted common stock distributed in respect of partnership interests in Topco Parent (“pre-IPO Class B-1 restricted stock awards”) has the right to receive non-forfeitable dividends or dividend equivalents if the Company declares dividends on its common stock. Under the two-class method, earnings are allocated to both common stock shares and participating securities based on their respective weighted-average shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings (loss) per common share incorporates the dilutive effect of common stock equivalents on an average basis during the period, if dilutive, in which case the dilutive effect of such securities is calculated using the more dilutive of (a) the two-class method, or (b) treasury stock method, as applicable, to the potentially dilutive instruments. Unvested restricted common stock is not included in the weighted average common shares outstanding figure within earnings per share until the period in which the vesting condition is satisfied. In periods in which the Company has a net loss, the two-class method is not applicable because the pre-IPO Class B-1 restricted stock awards do not participate in losses. Refer to Note 16, “Earnings (Loss) Per Share” for additional information.
Treasury Stock – The Company records repurchases of its own common stock at cost. Repurchased common stock is presented as a reduction of equity in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The difference between the repurchase and reissue price of the Company’s own stock is added to or deducted from additional paid-in capital. The cost of Treasury Stock reissued is calculated using a weighted average cost method.
Commitments and Contingencies – Certain conditions may exist as of the date of the consolidated financial statements which may result in a loss to the Company but will only be resolved when one or more future events occur or fail to occur. Such liabilities for loss contingencies arising from claims, assessments, litigation, fines, penalties, settlement agreements, and other sources, are recorded when management assesses that it is probable that a future liability has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated. Recoveries of costs from third parties, which management assesses as being probable of realization, are recorded to the extent related contingent liabilities are accrued. Legal costs incurred in connection with matters relating to contingencies are expensed in the period incurred. We record gain contingencies when realized.
- Recent Accounting Standards
Adoption of Accounting Standard Updates
In the year ended December 31, 2024, we adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2023-07-Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures. The amendments in ASU 2023-07 require an entity to provide enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
ASUs Issued But Not Yet Adopted
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09-Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures. The amendments in this ASU require entities to disclose, on an annual basis, specific categories in the reconciliation of the provision (benefit) for income taxes to the statutory rate and provide additional information for reconciling items that meet a quantitative threshold. Additionally, the update requires entities to disclose a disaggregation of taxes paid by category (federal, state and foreign taxes) as well as individual jurisdictions. For public business entities, the amendments in this ASU are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. The Company is in the process of evaluating the impact of this standard on our consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
In November 2024, the FASB issued ASU 2024-03-Income Statement-Reporting Comprehensive Income-Expense Disaggregation Disclosures (Subtopic 220-40): Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses. The amendments in this ASU requires entities to disaggregate certain expense captions into specified categories in disclosures within the footnotes to the financial statements. The Company is in the process of evaluating the impact of this standard on our consolidated financial statements and disclosures. In January 2025, the FASB issued ASU 2025-01, which revises the effective date of ASU 2024-03 and clarifies that entities are required to adopt the guidance in annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2026, and interim periods within annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2027. The Company is in the process of evaluating the impact of this standard on our consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
- Revenue Recognition
The following table shows disaggregated net revenues from contracts with external customers by timing of revenue and by segment for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022:
| Year Ended December 31, 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sterigenics | Nordion | Nelson Labs | Consolidated | |
| Point in time | $697,853 | $171,285 | $— | $869,138 |
| Over time | — | 2,070 | 229,233 | 231,303 |
| Total | $697,853 | $173,355 | $229,233 | $1,100,441 |
| Year Ended December 31, 2023 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sterigenics | Nordion | Nelson Labs | Consolidated | |
| Point in time | $667,130 | $153,747 | $— | $820,877 |
| Over time | — | 6,712 | 221,699 | 228,411 |
| Total | $667,130 | $160,459 | $221,699 | $1,049,288 |
| Year Ended December 31, 2022 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sterigenics | Nordion | Nelson Labs | Consolidated | |
| Point in time | $626,646 | $147,499 | $— | $774,145 |
| Over time | — | 6,140 | 223,402 | 229,542 |
| Total | $626,646 | $153,639 | $223,402 | $1,003,687 |
When we receive consideration from a customer prior to transferring goods or services under the terms of a sales contract, we record deferred revenue, which represents a contract liability. Deferred revenue totaled $15.1 million and $13.5 million at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. We recognize deferred revenue after we have transferred control of the goods or services to the customer and all revenue recognition criteria are met.
- Inventories
Inventories consisted of the following:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | ||
|---|---|---|
| As of December 31, | 2024 | 2023 |
| Raw materials and supplies | $42,408 | $43,411 |
| Work-in-process | 929 | 471 |
| Finished goods | 6,039 | 4,670 |
| 49,376 | 48,552 | |
| Reserve for excess and obsolete inventory | (218) | (236) |
| Inventories, net | $49,158 | $48,316 |
- Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets
Prepaid expenses and other current assets consisted of the following:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | ||
|---|---|---|
| As of December 31, | 2024 | 2023 |
| Prepaid taxes | $4,993 | $4,129 |
| Prepaid business insurance | 6,993 | 7,174 |
| Prepaid rent | 1,223 | 1,150 |
| Customer contract assets | 15,213 | 17,785 |
| Current deposits | 807 | 715 |
| Prepaid maintenance contracts | 638 | 422 |
| Value added tax receivable | 3,614 | 4,306 |
| Prepaid software licensing | 2,590 | 2,503 |
| Stock supplies | 4,025 | 3,669 |
| Embedded derivatives | 2,689 | 1,225 |
| Other | 8,246 | 10,768 |
| Prepaid expenses and other current assets | $51,031 | $53,846 |
- Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant, and equipment, net, consisted of the following:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | ||
|---|---|---|
| As of December 31, | 2024 | 2023 |
| Land and buildings | $418,038 | $345,309 |
| Leasehold improvements | 98,028 | 82,582 |
| Machinery, equipment, including Co-60 | 757,568 | 710,000 |
| Furniture and fixtures | 9,118 | 8,754 |
| Computer hardware and software | 58,767 | 51,437 |
| Asset retirement costs | 7,368 | 6,590 |
| Construction-in-progress | 250,418 | 247,019 |
| 1,599,305 | 1,451,691 | |
| Less accumulated depreciation | (562,413) | (504,777) |
| Property, plant and equipment, net | $1,036,892 | $946,914 |
Depreciation and amortization expense for property, plant, and equipment, including property under finance leases, was $84.3 million, $76.6 million and $64.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Capitalized interest totaled $16.2 million, $12.2 million and $3.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and was recorded as a reduction in “Interest expense, net” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
- Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Changes to goodwill during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 were as follows:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | Sterigenics | Nordion | Nelson Labs | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goodwill at January 1, 2023 | $657,458 | $270,966 | $173,344 | $1,101,768 |
| Changes due to foreign currency exchange rates | 2,430 | 5,963 | 1,029 | 9,422 |
| Goodwill at December 31, 2023 | 659,888 | 276,929 | 174,373 | 1,111,190 |
| Changes due to foreign currency exchange rates | (6,666) | (21,444) | (2,007) | (30,117) |
| Goodwill at December 31, 2024 | $653,222 | $255,485 | $172,366 | $1,081,073 |
Other intangible assets consisted of the following:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | Gross CarryingAmount | AccumulatedAmortization |
|---|---|---|
| As of December 31, 2024 | ||
| Finite-lived intangible assets | ||
| Customer relationships | $646,965 | $537,871 |
| Proprietary technology | 73,464 | 52,976 |
| Trade names | 2,531 | 1,651 |
| Land-use rights | 8,493 | 2,008 |
| Sealed source and supply agreements | 192,630 | 110,668 |
| Other | 4,344 | 3,655 |
| Total finite-lived intangible assets | 928,427 | 708,829 |
| Indefinite-lived intangible assets | ||
| Regulatory licenses and other(a) | 72,550 | — |
| Trade names / trademarks | 25,505 | — |
| Total indefinite-lived intangible assets | 98,055 | — |
| Total | $1,026,482 | $708,829 |
| As of December 31, 2023 | Gross CarryingAmount | AccumulatedAmortization |
|---|---|---|
| Finite-lived intangible assets | ||
| Customer relationships | $657,673 | $485,188 |
| Proprietary technology | 84,918 | 56,846 |
| Trade names | 2,567 | 1,207 |
| Land-use rights | 8,756 | 1,855 |
| Sealed source and supply agreements | 208,919 | 107,561 |
| Other | 4,517 | 2,905 |
| Total finite-lived intangible assets | 967,350 | 655,562 |
| Indefinite-lived intangible assets | ||
| Regulatory licenses and other(a) | 78,684 | — |
| Trade names / trademarks | 25,846 | — |
| Total indefinite-lived intangible assets | 104,530 | — |
| Total | $1,071,880 | $655,562 |
(a)Includes certain transportation certifications, a class 1B nuclear license and other intangibles related to obtaining such licensure. These assets are considered indefinite-lived as the decision for renewal by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission is highly based on a licensee’s previous assessments, reported incidents, and annual compliance and inspection results. New applications for license can take a significant amount of time and cost; whereas an existing licensee with a historical record of compliance and current operating conditions more than likely ensures renewal for another 10 year license period as Nordion has demonstrated over its 75 years of history.
Amounts include the impact of foreign currency translation. Fully amortized amounts are written off.
Amortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets was $79.4 million, $81.3 million, and $81.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. $62.0 million, $63.8 million, and $62.9 million was included in “Amortization of intangible assets” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, whereas the remainder was included in “Cost of revenues.”
The estimated aggregate amortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets for each of the next five years and thereafter is as follows:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $41,338 |
| 2026 | 21,379 |
| 2027 | 20,303 |
| 2028 | 19,755 |
| 2029 | 19,645 |
| Thereafter | 97,178 |
| Total | $219,598 |
The weighted-average remaining amortization periods of the finite-lived intangible assets by major intangible asset class as of December 31, 2024 were as follows:
| (in years) | Weighted average remaining amortization period |
|---|---|
| Customer relationships | 8.4 |
| Proprietary technology | 10.0 |
| Trade names | 1.8 |
| Land-use rights | 31.7 |
| Sealed source and supply agreements | 10.0 |
| Other | 1.0 |
- Accrued Liabilities
Accrued liabilities consisted of the following:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | ||
|---|---|---|
| As of December 31, | 2024 | 2023 |
| Accrued employee compensation | $37,018 | $35,037 |
| Georgia EO litigation settlement reserve | — | 35,000 |
| Illinois EO litigation settlement reserve | — | 288 |
| Other legal reserves | — | 1,480 |
| Accrued interest expense | 25,321 | 26,681 |
| Embedded derivatives | 4,098 | 414 |
| Professional fees | 12,572 | 12,691 |
| Accrued utilities | 1,651 | 2,056 |
| Insurance accrual | 2,326 | 2,922 |
| Accrued taxes | 3,923 | 2,407 |
| Other | 3,554 | 3,495 |
| Accrued liabilities | $90,463 | $122,471 |
- Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt consisted of the following:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| As of December 31, 2024 | Gross Amount | Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs | Unamortized Debt Discount | Net Amount |
| Secured notes due 2031 | $750,000 | $(3,707) | $— | $746,293 |
| Term loan due 2031 | 1,505,577 | (6,508) | (22,459) | 1,476,610 |
| 2,255,577 | (10,215) | (22,459) | 2,222,903 | |
| Less current portion | 15,094 | (65) | (226) | 14,803 |
| Long-term debt | $2,240,483 | $(10,150) | $(22,233) | $2,208,100 |
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| As of December 31, 2023 | Gross Amount | Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs | Unamortized Debt Discount | Net Amount |
| Term loan, due 2026 | $1,763,100 | $(1,606) | $(10,298) | $1,751,196 |
| Term loan B, due 2026 | 497,500 | (7,616) | (12,609) | 477,275 |
| 2,260,600 | (9,222) | (22,907) | 2,228,471 | |
| Less current portion | 5,000 | (76) | (127) | 4,797 |
| Long-term debt | $2,255,600 | $(9,146) | $(22,780) | $2,223,674 |
Debt Facilities
Senior Secured Credit Facilities
On December 13, 2019, SHH, our wholly owned subsidiary, entered into senior secured first lien credit facilities (the “Senior Secured Credit Facilities”), consisting of both a prepayable senior secured first lien term loan (the “Term Loan”) and a senior secured first lien revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) pursuant to a first lien credit agreement (as amended through Amendment No. 4, the “Credit Agreement”). The total borrowing capacity under the Revolving Credit Facility is $423.8 million. The Senior Secured Credit Facilities also provide SHH the right at any time and under certain conditions to request incremental term loans or incremental revolving credit commitments based on a formula defined in the Senior Secured Credit Facilities.
On May 30, 2024, the Company and SHH entered into Amendment No. 4 (“Amendment No. 4”) to the Senior Secured Credit Facilities. Among other changes, Amendment No. 4 provides for Refinancing Term Loans to SHH in an aggregate principal amount of $1,509.4 million. Pursuant to Amendment No. 4, the Refinancing Term Loans shall have an applicable interest rate margin per annum equal to (i) ABR plus 2.25% for ABR Loans (as defined in the Credit Agreement), (ii) daily simple Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus 3.25% for RFR Loans (as defined in the Credit Agreement) and (iii) Term SOFR plus 3.25% for Term Benchmark Loans (as defined in the Credit Agreement), in each case with a 0.00% applicable floor and the applicable interest rate margin shall be subject to a pricing step-down of 0.25% when the Senior Secured Leverage Ratio (as defined in the Credit Agreement) is less than or equal to 3.30:1.00. The Refinancing Term Loans amortize at a rate of 1.00% per annum and mature on May 30, 2031. The weighted average interest rate on borrowings under the Refinancing Term Loans for the year ended December 31, 2024 was 8.29%.
On May 30, 2024, SHH, the Company, certain subsidiaries of the Company (the “Guarantors”), and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as trustee, paying agent, registrar, transfer agent and notes collateral agent, entered into an Indenture (the “Indenture”) governing SHH’s $750.0 million aggregate principal amount of 7.375% senior secured notes due 2031 (the “Secured Notes”) issued in May 2024. The Secured Notes will pay interest semiannually in arrears on June 1 and December 1 of each year, beginning on December 1, 2024, at a rate of 7.375% per year, and will mature on June 1, 2031. The Secured Notes may be redeemed, at any time or from time to time, in whole or in part, on or after June 1, 2027 at the redemption prices specified in the Indenture, together with accrued and unpaid interest, if any, thereon to, but excluding, the redemption date. At any time or from time to time, prior to June 1, 2027, the Secured Notes may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the aggregate principal amount thereof plus a make-whole premium, together with accrued and unpaid interest, if any, thereon to, but excluding, the redemption date. In addition, at any time or from time to time, prior to June 1, 2027, SHH may redeem up to 40% of the aggregate principal amount of the Secured Notes (including any additional Secured Notes issued under the Indenture) with an amount not to exceed the net cash proceeds from certain equity offerings at a redemption price equal to 107.375% of the aggregate principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, thereon to, but excluding, the redemption date. Further, at any time or from time to time, on or before June 1, 2027, SHH may redeem up to 10% of the then outstanding aggregate principal amount of Secured Notes (including any additional Secured Notes issued under the Indenture) during each of the twelve-month periods ending after the issue date, at a redemption price equal to 103% of the aggregate principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, thereon to, but excluding, the redemption date.
The obligations under the Indenture are secured on a first-lien basis by security interests in substantially all of the assets of SHH, the Company and the Guarantors (other than any excluded assets) that secure the Credit Agreement on a pari passu basis, subject to certain limitations, exceptions and permitted liens. These obligations are secured pursuant to a security agreement, dated as of May 30, 2024, by and among SHH, the Company, the other grantors party thereto, and Wilmington Trust, National Association (the “Security Agreement”), as may be amended from time to time, and related financing statements.
The Company used the combined net proceeds from the Refinancing Terms Loans and Secured Notes, along with cash on hand, to refinance its previously outstanding $1,763.1 million Term Loan due 2026 and $496.3 million Term Loan B due 2026.
On March 1, 2024, the Company and SHH entered into Amendment No. 3 (“Amendment No. 3”) to the Revolving Credit Facility. Among other changes, Amendment No. 3 provides (i) for new commitments under the existing Revolving Credit Facility to replace the existing revolving commitments in an aggregate principal amount of $83.0 million, (ii) that certain of the lenders providing revolving credit commitments shall also provide additional commitments for the issuance of letters of credit under the Revolving Credit Facility in an aggregate principal amount of $37.5 million and (iii) for the extension of the maturity date of the Revolving Credit Facility to March 1, 2029.
The Senior Secured Credit Facilities and the Indenture contain additional covenants that, among other things, restrict, subject to certain exceptions, limitations and qualifications, our ability and the ability of our restricted subsidiaries to engage in certain activities, such as incur additional indebtedness or permit to exist any lien on any property or asset now owned or hereafter acquired, as specified in the Senior Secured Credit Facilities and the Indenture. The Senior Secured Credit Facilities and the Indenture also contain certain customary affirmative covenants and events of default, including upon a change of control. In addition, an event of default under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities and the Indenture would occur if the Company or certain of its subsidiaries received one or more enforceable judgments for payment in an aggregate amount in excess of the greater of (i) $162.6 million or (ii)30.0% of consolidated EBITDA or LTM EBITDA (as defined in the Credit Agreement and the Indenture, respectively) and the judgments were not stayed or remained undischarged for a period of 60 consecutive days. As of December 31, 2024, we were in compliance with all of the covenants under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities and the Indenture.
All of SHH’s obligations under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities and the Indenture are unconditionally guaranteed by the Company and each existing and subsequently acquired or organized direct or indirect wholly-owned domestic restricted subsidiary of the Company, with customary exceptions including, among other things, where providing such guarantees is not permitted by law, regulation or contract or would result in material adverse tax consequences. All obligations under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities and the Indenture, and the guarantees of such obligations, are secured by substantially all assets of SHH and the guarantors, subject to permitted liens and other exceptions and exclusions, as outlined in the Senior Secured Credit Facilities, the Indenture and the Security Agreement.
Outstanding letters of credit are collateralized by encumbrances against the Revolving Credit Facility and the collateral pledged thereunder, or by cash placed on deposit with the issuing bank. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had $14.0 million of letters of credit issued against the Revolving Credit Facility, resulting in total availability under the Revolving Credit Facility of $409.8 million.
Term Loan Interest Rate Risk Management
The Company utilizes interest rate derivatives to reduce the variability of cash flows in the interest payments associated with our variable rate debt due to changes in SOFR. For additional information on the derivative instruments described above, refer to Note 20, “Financial Instruments and Financial Risk”,“Derivative Instruments.”
Aggregate Maturities
Aggregate maturities of the Company’s long-term debt, excluding debt issuance costs and discounts, as of December 31, 2024, are as follows:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $15,094 |
| 2026 | 15,094 |
| 2027 | 15,094 |
| 2028 | 15,094 |
| Thereafter | 2,195,201 |
| Total | $2,255,577 |
- Income Taxes
The geographic sources of income (loss) before income taxes were as follows:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Year ended December 31, | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
| U.S. | $(116,049) | $(100,635) | $(418,308) |
| Foreign | 229,923 | 206,662 | 175,197 |
| Income (loss) before income taxes | $113,874 | $106,027 | $(243,111) |
Provision (benefit) for income taxes consisted of the following:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Year ended December 31, | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
| Current | |||
| Federal U.S. | $708 | $(3,809) | $12,841 |
| State U.S. | 1,100 | 924 | 5,082 |
| Foreign | 58,235 | 54,087 | 46,496 |
| Total current provision | 60,043 | 51,202 | 64,419 |
| Deferred | |||
| Federal U.S. | 13,645 | 6,933 | (52,382) |
| State U.S. | (837) | (619) | (17,919) |
| Foreign | (3,375) | (2,865) | (3,659) |
| Total deferred provision (benefit) | 9,433 | 3,449 | (73,960) |
| Total provision (benefit) for income taxes | $69,476 | $54,651 | $(9,541) |
The provision (benefit) for income taxes is reconciled with the U.S. federal statutory rate as follows:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Year ended December 31, | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
| Provision (benefit) computed at federal statutory rate | $23,914 | $22,265 | $(51,053) |
| Increase (decrease) in taxes as a result of: | |||
| State taxes, net of federal benefit | (2,840) | (2,889) | (20,359) |
| Valuation allowance | 35,660 | 19,494 | 53,860 |
| Global intangible low-tax income (“GILTI”) | 1,691 | 4,861 | 1,427 |
| Nondeductible share-based compensation | 3,859 | 3,192 | 2,510 |
| Foreign tax rate differential | 11,893 | 10,595 | 8,335 |
| Impact of rate changes on deferred tax balances | (914) | (92) | (1,184) |
| Tax holiday | (1,335) | (1,082) | (605) |
| Audit settlement | 17 | 739 | 276 |
| Tax credits | (259) | — | (172) |
| Other | (2,210) | (2,432) | (2,576) |
| Total provision (benefit) for income taxes | $69,476 | $54,651 | $(9,541) |
The components of the tax effects of temporary differences and carryforwards that gave rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | ||
|---|---|---|
| As of December 31, | 2024 | 2023 |
| Net operating loss carryforwards | $56,097 | $71,552 |
| Net capital loss carryforwards | 2,890 | 4,686 |
| Reserves and accruals | 14,785 | 26,591 |
| Employee benefits and compensation | 10,481 | 8,519 |
| Asset retirement obligations | 11,506 | 11,140 |
| Lease liability | 7,783 | 8,733 |
| Disallowed interest carryforward | 167,369 | 129,320 |
| Other | 8,804 | 10,806 |
| Deferred tax assets before valuation allowance | 279,715 | 271,347 |
| Valuation allowance | (160,595) | (125,435) |
| Net deferred tax assets | 119,120 | 145,912 |
| Depreciation and amortization | (170,646) | (195,450) |
| Reserves and accruals | (11,240) | (7,931) |
| Other | (3,869) | (1,992) |
| Total deferred tax liabilities | (185,755) | (205,373) |
| Net deferred tax liabilities | $(66,635) | $(59,461) |
| Noncurrent net deferred tax assets | $2,865 | $4,993 |
| Noncurrent net deferred tax liabilities | (69,500) | (64,454) |
| Noncurrent net deferred tax liabilities | $(66,635) | $(59,461) |
At December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company had available U.S. federal net operating loss carryforwards of $164.1 million and $235.0 million, respectively, which have no expiration date. At December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company had available state net operating loss carryforwards of $293.8 million and $298.8 million, respectively, of which $89.6 million and $103.6 million have no expiration date, and foreign net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $21.4 million and $23.4 million, respectively, the majority of which have no expiration date. At December 31, 2024 and 2023, a valuation allowance was established against foreign net operating loss carryforwards for $3.6 million and $4.4 million, respectively. At December 31, 2024 there isno valuation allowance against U.S. federal net operating loss carryforwards as we expect these deferred tax assets will be realized. At December 31, 2023 we established a valuation allowance against U.S. federal net operating loss carryforwards of $6.8 million. At December 31, 2024 and 2023, we also established a valuation allowance against U.S. state net operating loss carryforwards for $12.5 million and $11.3 million, respectively. Based on management’s assessment, it is not more likely than not that these deferred tax assets will be realized through future taxable income.
At December 31, 2024, a deferred tax liability of $3.8 million was recorded for repatriation of earnings for purposes of the Company’s consolidated financial statements as these earnings are not deemed to be indefinitely reinvested. Determining the amount of unrecognized deferred tax liability related to any remaining undistributed foreign earnings not subject to the transition tax and additional outside basis difference in these entities (i.e., basis difference in excess of that subject to the one-time transition tax) is not practicable.
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the gross reserve for uncertain tax positions, excluding accrued interest and penalties, was$0.
The Company recognizes interest and penalties as part of the provision for income taxes. For the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, interest and penalties related to uncertain income tax positions that were recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) were not material.
The Company, which represents all of its subsidiaries, files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various states and foreign jurisdictions. The Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal, state, and local tax examinations before 2016, and non-U.S. income tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2012. Tax years through December 31, 2018 have been audited by the Internal Revenue Service and are effectively closed for U.S. federal income tax purposes and no other fiscal years are currently under audit. For Nordion’s Canadian tax, all tax years through October 31, 2018 have been closed through audit or statute, and no other fiscal years are currently under audit.
A portion of the Company’s foreign operations benefit from a tax holiday, which is set to expire in 2030. This tax holiday may be terminated early if certain conditions are not met. The tax benefit attributable to this holiday was $1.3 million and $1.1 million for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
- Employee Benefits
Employee Retirement Benefits in the U.S.
We have a defined-contribution retirement plan that covers all U.S. employees upon date of hire. Contributions are directed by each participant into various investment options. Under this plan, we match participants’ contributions based on plan provisions. The Company’s contributions, which are expensed as incurred, were $6.0 million, $5.7 million, and $5.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and are recorded in the same line as the respective employee’s wages. Administrative expenses related to the plan are paid by the Company and are not material.
Employee Retirement Benefits Outside the U.S.
The Company participates in qualified supplemental retirement and savings plans in various countries outside the U.S. where we operate. Under these defined-contribution plans, funding and costs are generally based upon a predetermined percentage of employee compensation. The Company’s contributions, which are expensed as incurred and recorded in the same line as the respective employee’s wages, were $1.7 million, $1.7 million and $1.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Defined Benefit Pension Plans
The Company also sponsors various post-employment benefit plans including, in certain countries outside the U.S., defined benefit and defined contribution plans, retirement compensation arrangements, and plans that provide extended health care coverage to retired employees, the majority of which relate to Nordion.
Defined benefit pension plan
The following defined benefit pension plan disclosure relates to Nordion. Certain immaterial foreign defined benefit pension plans have been excluded from the table below. The interest cost, expected return on plan assets and amortization of net actuarial loss are recorded in “Other (income) expense, net” and the service cost component is included in the same financial statement line item as the applicable employee’s wages in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). The components of net periodic pension benefit for the defined benefit plans were as follows:
| Year ended December 31, | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
| Service cost | $570 | $525 | $969 |
| Interest cost | 10,435 | 10,917 | 7,411 |
| Expected return on plan assets | (15,823) | (16,108) | (14,421) |
| Net periodic benefit | $(4,818) | $(4,666) | $(6,041) |
The following weighted average assumptions were used in the determination of the PBO and the net periodic benefit:
| Year ended December 31, | 2024 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|
| Projected benefit obligation | ||
| Discount rate | 4.65% | 4.65% |
| Rate of compensation increase | 3.00% | 3.00% |
| Periodic benefit | ||
| Discount rate | 4.65% | 5.19% |
| Expected return on plan assets | 6.25% | 6.50% |
| Rate of compensation increase | 3.00% | 3.00% |
The changes in the PBO, fair value of plan assets, and the funded status of the plans are as follows:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | ||
|---|---|---|
| As of December 31, | 2024 | 2023 |
| Change in projected benefit obligation: | ||
| Projected benefit obligation, as of beginning of the year | $239,947 | $217,582 |
| Service cost | 732 | 681 |
| Interest cost | 10,435 | 10,917 |
| Benefits paid | (12,737) | (12,305) |
| Actuarial loss | 935 | 17,934 |
| Foreign currency exchange rate changes | (18,679) | 5,138 |
| Projected benefit obligation, end of year | $220,633 | $239,947 |
| Change in fair value of plan assets: | ||
| Fair value of plan assets as of the beginning of the year | $268,424 | $253,130 |
| Actual return on plan assets | 27,925 | 21,163 |
| Benefits paid | (12,737) | (12,305) |
| Employer contributions | 604 | 496 |
| Employee contributions | 162 | 156 |
| Foreign currency exchange rate changes | (21,675) | 5,784 |
| Fair value of plan assets, end of year | $262,703 | $268,424 |
| Funded status at end of year | $42,070 | $28,477 |
| Accumulated benefit obligation, end of year | $218,122 | $237,016 |
All defined benefit pension plans are overfunded as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.
The funded status, measured as the difference between the fair value of the plan assets and the PBO, are included in “Post-retirement assets” for overfunded plans and “Post-retirement obligations” for underfunded plans in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
A reconciliation of the funded status to amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets is as follows:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | ||
|---|---|---|
| As of December 31, | 2024 | 2023 |
| Projected benefit obligation | $220,633 | $239,947 |
| Fair value of plan assets | 262,703 | 268,424 |
| Plan assets greater than projected benefit obligation (noncurrent assets) | 42,070 | 28,477 |
| Unrecognized net actuarial (gain) loss | (107) | 11,429 |
The following table illustrates the amounts in accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss that have not yet been recognized as components of pension expense:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | ||
|---|---|---|
| As of December 31, | 2024 | 2023 |
| Net actuarial (gain) loss | $(107) | $11,429 |
| Deferred income taxes | 27 | (2,919) |
| Accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss – net of tax | $(80) | $8,510 |
We donot expect to reclassify any of the net actuarial gain in accumulated other comprehensive income to net periodic pension income in the next twelve months.
The weighted average asset allocation of the Company’s pension plans was as follows:
| Asset Category | Target | 2024 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cash | 0.0% | 0.6% | 0.7% |
| Fixed income | 54.0% | 52.3% | 43.7% |
| Equities | 27.0% | 25.9% | 34.0% |
| Hedge funds | 19.0% | 21.2% | 21.6% |
| Total | 100.0% | 100.0% | 100.0% |
The Company maintains target allocation percentages among various asset classes based on investment policies established for the pension plans, which are designed to maximize the total rate of return (income and appreciation) after inflation, within the limits of prudent risk taking, while providing for adequate near-term liquidity for benefit payments. Such investment strategies have adopted an equity-based philosophy to achieve their long-term investment goals by investing in assets that often have uncertain returns, such as Canadian and other foreign equities, and non-government bonds, although the Company also attempts to reduce the overall level of risk by diversifying the asset classes and further diversifying within each individual asset class.
The Company’s expected return on asset assumptions are derived from studies conducted by actuaries and investment advisors. The studies include a review of anticipated future long-term performance of individual asset classes and consideration of the appropriate asset allocation strategy given the anticipated requirements of the plans to determine the average rate of earnings expected on the funds invested to provide for the pension plans benefits. While the study considers recent fund performance and historical returns, the assumption is primarily a long-term, prospective rate.
Valuation Methodologies
Below is a description of the composition and valuation methodologies for pension plan assets. Refer to the discussion of fair value hierarchy in Note 20, “Financial Instruments and Financial Risk.”
Cash and cash equivalents – Consists of deposits with financial institutions and other short-term highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less. Cash and cash equivalents are categorized as Level 1 instruments in the fair value hierarchy.
Fixed income securities, equity securities and hedge fund assets - These assets are invested in managed funds that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share practical expedient and, therefore, are not categorized in the fair value hierarchy.
Expected future benefit payments from plan assets are as follows:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | |
|---|---|
| Year Ended December 31, | |
| 2025 | $12,969 |
| 2026 | 13,260 |
| 2027 | 13,571 |
| 2028 | 13,708 |
| 2029 | 13,839 |
| 2030 - 2034 | 70,473 |
| $137,820 | |
Other benefit plans
Other benefit plans disclosed below relate to Nordion and include a supplemental retirement arrangement, a retirement and termination allowance, and post-retirement benefit plans, which include contributory health and dental care benefits and contributory life insurance coverage. Certain immaterial other foreign benefit plans have been excluded from the table below. All non-pension post-employment benefit plans are unfunded. All other non-pension post-employment benefit plans are immaterial.
The interest cost and amortization of net actuarial (gain) loss are recorded in “Other income, net” and the service cost component is included in the same financial statement line item as the applicable employee’s wages in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). The components of net periodic benefit cost for the other benefit plans were as follows:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Year Ended December 31, | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
| Service cost | $10 | $9 | $16 |
| Interest cost | 371 | 398 | 284 |
| Amortization of net actuarial gain | (170) | (197) | (171) |
| Net periodic benefit cost | $211 | $210 | $129 |
The weighted average assumptions used to determine the PBO and net periodic pension cost for these plans were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31, | 2024 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|
| Projected benefit obligation: | ||
| Discount rate | 4.65% | 4.65% |
| Rate of compensation increase | 3.00% | 3.00% |
| Initial health care cost trend rate | 7.00% | 7.00% |
| Ultimate health care cost trend rate | 4.00% | 4.00% |
| Years until ultimate trend rate is reached | 15 | 16 |
| Benefit cost: | ||
| Discount rate | 4.65% | 5.19% |
| Rate of compensation increase | 3.00% | 3.00% |
Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the health care plans. A one-percentage point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have had the following impact on our consolidated financial statements in 2024:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | 1% Increase | 1% Decrease |
|---|---|---|
| Change in net periodic benefit cost | $22 | $(19) |
| Change in projected benefit obligation | 490 | (417) |
The changes in the projected benefit obligation and the funded status of the other post-retirement plans were as follows:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | ||
|---|---|---|
| As of December 31, | 2024 | 2023 |
| Change in projected benefit obligation: | ||
| Projected benefit obligation | $8,964 | $8,391 |
| Service cost | 10 | 9 |
| Interest cost | 371 | 398 |
| Benefits paid | (609) | (665) |
| Actuarial loss | 211 | 509 |
| Plan participant contributions | 132 | 129 |
| Foreign currency exchange rate changes | (704) | 193 |
| Projected benefit obligation, end of year | $8,375 | $8,964 |
| Change in fair value of plan assets: | ||
| Fair value of plan assets as of the beginning of the year | $525 | $481 |
| Benefits paid | (187) | (183) |
| Employer contributions | 216 | 216 |
| Foreign currency exchange rate changes | (42) | 11 |
| Fair value of plan assets, end of year | $512 | $525 |
| Underfunded status at end of year | $(7,863) | $(8,439) |
| Accumulated benefit obligation, end of year | $8,364 | $8,943 |
All other post-retirement benefit pension plans are underfunded as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
A reconciliation of the funded status to the net plan liabilities recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets is as follows:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | ||
|---|---|---|
| As of December 31, | 2024 | 2023 |
| Projected benefit obligation | $8,375 | $8,964 |
| Fair value of plan assets | 512 | 525 |
| Plan assets less than projected benefit obligation (noncurrent liabilities) | (7,863) | (8,439) |
| Unrecognized actuarial gains | (1,549) | (2,074) |
The other benefit plan liabilities are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as “Post retirement obligations.”
The following table illustrates the amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that have not yet been recognized as components of other benefit plan expense:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | ||
|---|---|---|
| As of December 31, | 2024 | 2023 |
| Net actuarial gain | $(1,549) | $(2,074) |
| Deferred income taxes | 444 | 585 |
| Accumulated other comprehensive income – net of tax | $(1,105) | $(1,489) |
Based on the actuarial assumptions used to develop the Company’s benefit obligations as of December 31, 2024, the following benefit payments are expected to be made to plan participants:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | |
|---|---|
| Years ended December 31 | |
| 2025 | $613 |
| 2026 | 536 |
| 2027 | 558 |
| 2028 | 487 |
| 2029 | 488 |
| 2030 - 2034 | 2,490 |
| Total | $5,172 |
The Company currently has no funding requirements as the Nordion pension plan had a going concern surplus as of January 1, 2024, as defined by Canadian federal regulations, which require solvency testing on defined benefit pension plans on an annual basis.
The Company may obtain a qualifying letter of credit for solvency payments, up to 15% of the market value of solvency liabilities as determined on the valuation date, instead of cash payment into the pension fund. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, we had letters of credit outstanding relating to the defined benefit plans totaling $6.4 million and $16.0 million, respectively. The actual funding requirements over thefive-year period will be dependent on subsequent annual actuarial valuations. These amounts are estimates, which may change with actual investment performance, changes in interest rates, any pertinent changes in Canadian government regulations, and any voluntary contributions.
- Related Parties
For the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, the Company didnot engage in any material related party transactions.
- Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are presented net of the related tax. Foreign currency translation is not adjusted for income taxes.
Changes in our accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) balances, net of applicable tax, were as follows:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | DefinedBenefitPlans | ForeignCurrencyTranslation | InterestRateDerivatives | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beginning balance – January 1, 2022 | $(17,581) | $(66,389) | $404 | $(83,566) |
| Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications | 20,803 | (64,816) | 20,939 | (23,074) |
| Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | (13)(a) | — | —(b) | (13) |
| Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) | 20,790 | (64,816) | 20,939 | (23,087) |
| Ending balance – December 31, 2022 | $3,209 | $(131,205) | $21,343 | $(106,653) |
| Beginning balance – January 1, 2023 | $3,209 | $(131,205) | $21,343 | $(106,653) |
| Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications | (10,308) | 40,174 | 6,441 | 36,307 |
| Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | (198)(a) | — | (22,138)(b) | (22,336) |
| Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) | (10,506) | 40,174 | (15,697) | 13,971 |
| Ending balance – December 31, 2023 | $(7,297) | $(91,031) | $5,646 | $(92,682) |
| Beginning balance – January 1, 2024 | $(7,297) | $(91,031) | $5,646 | $(92,682) |
| Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications | 8,632 | (118,635) | 4,449 | (105,554) |
| Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | (170)(a) | — | (9,845)(b) | (10,015) |
| Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) | 8,462 | (118,635) | (5,396) | (115,569) |
| Ending balance – December 31, 2024 | $1,165 | $(209,666) | $250 | $(208,251) |
(a)For defined benefit pension and other post-retirement plans, amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are recorded to “Other income, net” within the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
(b)For interest rate derivatives, amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are recorded to “Interest expense, net” within the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
- Stockholders’ Equity
Common Stock
The Company completed its IPO in the fourth quarter of 2020 and shares began trading on Nasdaq on November 20, 2020. Prior to the completion of the IPO, the Company amended and restated its certificate of incorporation to authorize 1,200,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, and reclassify all 3,000 shares of its common stock then outstanding as 232,400,200 shares. Upon completion of the IPO,284,421,755 shares of common stock were outstanding.
Voting Rights. Holders of common stock are entitled toone vote for each share held on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders, subject to certain restrictions described in the certificate of incorporation.
Dividends. Subject to preferences that may be applicable to any then outstanding preferred stock, holders of our common stock are entitled to receive ratably those dividends, if any, as may be declared by the board of directors out of legally available funds.
Liquidation, Dissolution, and Winding Up. In the event of liquidation, dissolution or winding up, the holders of the Company’s common stock will be entitled to share equally and ratably in the net assets legally available for distribution to stockholders after the payment of all of debts and other liabilities, subject to the prior rights of any preferred stock then outstanding.
Preferred Stock
In addition, prior to the completion of the IPO, the Company’s amended and restated certificate of incorporation authorized 120,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share. The board of directors may issue preferred stock, without stockholder approval, in such series and with such designations, preferences, conversion or other rights, voting powers and qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof, as the board of directors deems appropriate.
- Share-Based Compensation
Pre-IPO Awards
Prior to our IPO, the Company’s equity-based awards issued to service providers (including directors and employees) included partnership interests in Topco Parent (Class B-1 or B-2 Units) which vested based on either time or the achievement of certain performance and market conditions (the “pre-IPO awards”). These equity-based awards represented an interest in our former parent and were granted in respect of services provided to the Company and its subsidiaries. In connection with the IPO, our former parent made in-kind distributions of shares of our common stock to its limited partners. At the time of the IPO, there were fewer than 60 individuals who received shares in the in-kind distribution; while this distribution represented a modification to the existing awards, there was no associated change in compensation expense because the fair value of the distributed shares immediately before and after the distribution was the same.
Restricted stock distributed in respect of pre-IPO Class B-1 time vesting units vests on a daily basis pro rata over afive-year vesting period (20% per year) beginning on the original vesting commencement date of the corresponding Class B-1 time vesting units, subject to the grantee’s continued services through each vesting date. Upon the occurrence of a change in control of the Company, all then outstanding unvested shares of our common stock distributed in respect of Class B-1 Units will vest as of the date of consummation of such change in control, subject to the grantee’s continued services through the consummation of the change in control.
Restricted stock distributed in respect of pre-IPO Class B-2 Units were considered performance vesting units. The required performance threshold for the vesting of B-2 restricted stock was the first date on which (i) our Sponsors received actual cash proceeds in an amount equal to or in excess of at least two and one-half times their invested capital in Topco Parent (of which the Company was a direct wholly-owned subsidiary prior to the IPO) and (ii) the Sponsors’ internal rate of return exceeded 20%, subject to such grantee’s continued services through such date. Both performance thresholds were satisfied on March 4, 2024 and, as a result, all outstanding B-2 Units were fully vested as of that date. Share-based compensation expense attributed to the pre-IPO Class B-2 awards was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2020 as the related performance conditions were considered probable of achievement and the implied service conditions were met.
We recognized $1.6 million, $2.0 million and $2.1 million of share-based compensation expense related to the pre-IPO Class B-1 awards for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
A summary of the activity for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 related to the restricted stock distributed to the Company service providers in respect of the pre-IPO awards (Class B-1 and B-2) is presented below:
| Restricted Stock - Pre-IPO B-1 | Restricted Stock - Pre-IPO B-2 | |
|---|---|---|
| At January 1, 2022 | 1,206,089 | 2,023,959 |
| Forfeited | (54,333) | (925,544) |
| Vested | (435,665) | — |
| At December 31, 2022 | 716,091 | 1,098,415 |
| Forfeited | (16,243) | (111,304) |
| Vested | (347,401) | — |
| At December 31, 2023 | 352,447 | 987,111 |
| Forfeited | (2,651) | — |
| Vested | (278,345) | (987,111) |
| At December 31, 2024 | 71,451 | — |
The following table provides a summary of the weighted average unit grant date fair value, weighted average remaining contractual term, total compensation cost and unrecognized compensation cost for the pre-IPO awards:
| December 31, 2024 | Restricted Stock - Pre-IPO B-1 |
|---|---|
| (dollars in millions, except per award values) | |
| Weighted average grant date fair value per unit of unvested units(a) | $6.32 |
| Weighted average remaining contractual term | 0.4 years |
| Total compensation cost recognized during 2024 | $1.6 |
| Unrecognized compensation expense at December 31, 2024 | $0.5 |
(a)Due to the in-kind distribution of shares of our common stock in connection with our IPO described above, the weighted average grant date fair value per unit is not comparable to the IPO share price.
2020 Omnibus Incentive Plan
We maintain the 2020 Plan that allows for grants of incentive stock options to employees (including employees of any of our subsidiaries), nonstatutory stock options, restricted stock awards (“RSAs”), RSUs and other cash-based, equity-based or equity-related awards to employees, directors, and consultants, including employees or consultants of our subsidiaries. A maximum of 27.9 million shares of common stock may be issued under the 2020 Plan. At December 31, 2024,15.6 million shares were available for future issuance. The Company plans to issue shares available under the 2020 Plan or shares from treasury to satisfy requirements of awards paid with shares.
We recognize share-based compensation expense at grant date fair value over the requisite service period on a straight-line basis in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), in “Selling, general and administrative expenses.” We recognized $35.2 million ($16.4 million for stock options and $18.8 million for RSAs and RSUs), $30.4 million ($14.4 million for stock options and $16.0 million for RSUs) and $19.1 million ($7.8 million for stock options and $11.3 million for RSUs)of share-based compensation expense for these awards for the years ending December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Stock Options
We use a Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate the fair value of stock options. Since we are a newly public company, the expected volatility is based on the volatility of similar publicly traded businesses within the same or similar industry as the Company in combination with our own volatility. We used the simplified method to estimate the expected term. The risk-free rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield in effect at the time of the grant.
Weighted-average grant-date fair values of stock options and the assumptions used in estimating the fair values are as follows:
| For the year ended December 31, | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weighted average grant date fair value per option | $7.35 | $7.13 | $4.86 |
| Expected term (years) | 6 years | 6 years | 5.8 years |
| Risk-free interest rate | 4.2% | 4.2% | 3.4% |
| Expected volatility | 46.8% | 50.0% | 45.7% |
Stock options generally vest ratably over a period oftwo tofour years. They have an exercise price equal to the fair market value of a share of common stock on the date of grant, and a contractual term of 10 years. The following table summarizes our stock option activity for the year ended December 31, 2024:
| Number of Shares | Weighted-average Exercise Price | Remaining Contractual Life | Aggregate Intrinsic Value (millions of U.S. dollars) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outstanding at the beginning of the year | 6,972,661 | $15.17 | ||
| Granted | 1,615,721 | 14.57 | ||
| Forfeited | (260,331) | 18.76 | ||
| Outstanding at the end of the year | 8,328,051 | $14.94 | 7.6 years | $19.9 |
| Exercisable at the end of the year | 5,730,231 | $14.41 | 7.1 years | $— |
| Unvested at the end of the year | 2,597,820 | $16.12 | 8.6 years | $— |
At December 31, 2024, the total unrecognized compensation expense related to stock options expected to be recognized over the weighted-average period of approximately 1.8 years is $12.5 million. The total fair value of stock options vested during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 was $16.3 million, $10.6 million and $4.4 million, respectively.
RSUs
RSUs generally vest ratably over a period ofone tofour years and are valued based on the market price on the date of grant. The following table summarizes our unvested RSUs activity for the year ended December 31, 2024:
| Number of Shares | Weighted-average Grant Date Fair Value | |
|---|---|---|
| Unvested at the beginning of the year | 2,298,836 | $13.81 |
| Granted | 1,233,596 | 14.05 |
| Forfeited | (190,297) | 12.27 |
| Vested | (1,063,598) | 14.52 |
| Unvested at the end of the year | 2,278,537 | $13.73 |
As of December 31, 2024, total unrecognized compensation expense related to RSUs expected to be recognized over the weighted-average period of approximately 1.7 years is $18.7 million. The total fair value of RSUs vested during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 was $15.4 million, $14.1 million and $5.7 million, respectively.
- Earnings (Loss) Per Share
Basic earnings per share represents the amount of income attributable to each common share outstanding. Diluted earnings per share represents the amount of income attributable to each common share outstanding adjusted for the effects of potentially dilutive common shares. Potentially dilutive common shares include stock options and other stock-based awards. In the periods where the effect would be antidilutive, potentially dilutive common shares are excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share.
In periods in which the Company has net income, earnings per share is calculated using the two-class method. This method is required as unvested restricted stock distributed in respect of pre-IPO Class B-1 and B-2 awards have the right to receive non-forfeitable dividends or dividend equivalents if the Company were to declare dividends on its common stock. Pursuant to the two-class method, earnings for each period are allocated on a pro-rata basis to common stockholders and unvested pre-IPO Class B-1 and B-2 restricted stock awards. As of March 4, 2024, the performance threshold applicable to all Class B-2 restricted stock awards were fully satisfied, thereby releasing the vesting and forfeiture restrictions on these common shares. Beginning on that date, B-2 restricted stock was not included in the earnings allocation. Diluted earnings per share is computed using the more dilutive of (a) the two-class method, or (b) treasury stock method, as applicable, to the potentially dilutive instruments.
Our basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share are calculated as follows:
| Year Ended December 31, | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| in thousands of U.S. dollars and share amounts (except per share amounts) | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
| Earnings (loss): | |||
| Net income (loss) | $44,398 | $51,376 | $(233,570) |
| Less: Allocation to participating securities | 59 | 287 | — |
| Net income (loss) attributable to Sotera Health Company common stockholders | $44,339 | $51,089 | $(233,570) |
| Weighted Average Common Shares: | |||
| Weighted-average common shares outstanding - basic | 282,784 | 281,008 | 280,096 |
| Dilutive effect of potential common shares(a) | 2,122 | 2,213 | — |
| Weighted-average common shares outstanding - diluted | 284,906 | 283,222 | 280,096 |
| Earnings (loss) per Common Share: | |||
| Net income (loss) per common share attributable to Sotera Health Company common stockholders - basic | $0.16 | $0.18 | $(0.83) |
| Net income (loss) per common share attributable to Sotera Health Company common stockholders - diluted | 0.16 | 0.18 | (0.83) |
(a)As the Company reported a net loss for the year ended December 31, 2022, the calculation of diluted weighted average common shares outstanding is not applicable for the year ended December 31, 2022 because the effect of including the potential common shares would be anti-dilutive.
Diluted earnings per shares does not consider the following potential common shares as the effect would be anti-dilutive:
| Year Ended December 31, | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| in thousands of share amounts | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
| RSUs | 34 | 291 | 2,467 |
| Stock options | 5,469 | 4,108 | 5,990 |
| Total anti-dilutive securities | 5,503 | 4,399 | 8,457 |
- Leases
We lease certain facilities and equipment under various non-cancelable leases. Most of our real property leases provide for renewal periods and rent escalations and stipulate that we pay taxes, maintenance, and certain other operating expenses applicable to the leased premises.
The components of lease expense were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31, | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
| Operating lease costs (a) | $13,267 | $13,920 | $15,122 |
| Finance lease costs: | |||
| Amortization of right of use assets | 8,438 | 8,152 | 6,368 |
| Interest on lease liabilities | 6,064 | 4,394 | 3,454 |
| Total finance lease costs | 14,502 | 12,546 | 9,822 |
| Total lease costs | $27,769 | $26,466 | $24,944 |
(a)Includes $1.5 million, $1.4 million, and $1.3 million of short-term lease costs in the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
Lease terms and discount rates were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31, | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | |
| Weighted average remaining lease term: | ||
| Operating leases | 7.3 years | 5.7 years |
| Finance leases | 15.2 years | 14.0 years |
| Weighted average discount rate: | ||
| Operating leases | 6.57% | 5.92% |
| Finance leases | 6.55% | 5.76% |
Supplemental cash flow information related to leases was as follows:
| Year Ended December 31, | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
| Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities: | |||
| Operating cash flows for operating leases | $7,382 | $10,067 | $11,112 |
| Operating cash flows for finance leases | 6,277 | 3,988 | 2,932 |
| Finance cash flows for finance leases | 8,088 | 1,823 | 1,066 |
Supplemental non-cash information was as follows:
| Year Ended December 31, | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
| Lease liabilities arising from obtaining right-of-use assets: | |||
| Operating leases | $10,550 | $4,559 | $1,338 |
| Finance leases | 36,016 | 14,770 | 18,286 |
Maturities of lease liabilities as of December 31, 2024 are as follows:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | OperatingLeases | FinanceLeases | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $6,937 | $9,245 | $16,182 |
| 2026 | 6,572 | 9,365 | 15,937 |
| 2027 | 5,540 | 9,647 | 15,187 |
| 2028 | 4,293 | 9,947 | 14,240 |
| 2029 | 3,499 | 9,626 | 13,125 |
| 2030 and Thereafter | 12,289 | 117,367 | 129,656 |
| Total lease payments | 39,130 | 165,197 | 204,327 |
| Less imputed interest | (9,609) | (66,988) | (76,597) |
| Total lease liabilities | $29,521 | $98,209 | $127,730 |
- Asset Retirement Obligations (“ARO”)
Our ARO represent the present value of future remediation costs and an increase in the carrying amounts of the related assets in property, plant and equipment in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The capitalized future site remediation costs are depreciated and the ARO are accreted over the life of the related assets which is included in depreciation and amortization expense within cost of revenues, respectively.
The fair value of the ARO is determined based on estimates requiring management judgment. Key assumptions include the timing and estimated decommissioning costs of the remediation activities and credit adjusted risk free interest rates. Changes in the assumptions based on future information may result in adjustments to the estimated obligations over time. No market risk premium has been included in the calculation for the ARO since no reliable estimate can be made by the Company. Any difference between costs incurred upon settlement of an ARO and the liability recognized for the estimated cost of asset retirements will be recognized as a gain or loss in our current period operating results.
Each year, we review decommissioning costs and consider changes in marketplace rates. The following table describes changes to our ARO liability during the years presented:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | ||
|---|---|---|
| For the years ended December 31, | 2024 | 2023 |
| ARO – beginning of period | $47,944 | $45,482 |
| Liabilities settled | — | (2,896) |
| Changes in estimates | 1,240 | 2,133 |
| Accretion expense | 2,638 | 2,413 |
| Foreign currency exchange and other | (2,503) | 812 |
| ARO – end of period | $49,319 | $47,944 |
We recorded depreciation expense on the ARO of $0.4 million, $0.4 million and $0.3 million, for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022 respectively.
We are obligated to provide financial assurance to local and state licensing authorities for possible future decommissioning costs associated with the various facilities that hold Co-60. At December 31, 2024 and 2023, $49.1 million and $48.2 million, respectively, of the standby letters of credit referenced above and surety bonds were outstanding in favor of the various local and state licensing authorities in the event we defaulted on our decommissioning obligation.
- Commitments and Continge ncies
We depend on a limited number of suppliers and our agreements with these suppliers account for material portions of our
supply and direct material costs. These costs include obligations under various supply agreements in our Nordion segment for
Co-60 that are enforceable and legally binding on us. As of December 31, 2024, we had minimum purchase commitments
primarily with domestic and international suppliers of raw materials for the Nordion business totaling$2,219.1 million. The
terms of these long-term supply or service arrangements range from 1 to 39 years. In addition, our Sterigenics segment has
obligations to purchase ethylene oxide (“EO”). Our contract to purchase EO in the U.S. requires us to purchase all of our
requirements from one supplier, and our contracts to purchase EO outside the U.S. generally require that we purchase a
specified percentage of our requirements for our operations in the countries covered by those contracts. We expect to utilize the
Co-60 and EO encompassed by these agreements in the normal course of our business and therefore our commitments under
these agreements are not recognized on the consolidated balance sheets as a liability.
From time to time, we may be or are subject to various lawsuits and other claims, as well as gain contingencies, in the ordinary course of our business. In addition, from time to time, we receive communications from government or regulatory agencies concerning investigations or allegations of noncompliance with laws or regulations in jurisdictions in which we operate. We assess these regulatory and legal actions to determine if a contingent liability should be recorded. In making these determinations, we may, depending on the nature of the matter, consult with internal and external legal counsel and technical experts.
We establish reserves for specific liabilities in connection with regulatory and legal actions that we determine to be both probable and reasonably estimable. The outcomes of regulatory and legal actions can be difficult to predict and are often resolved over long periods of time, making our probability and estimability determinations highly judgmental. Probability determinations require the analysis of various possible outcomes, assessments of potential damages and the impact of multiple factors beyond our control, including potential actions by others, interpretations of the law, and changes and developments in relevant facts, circumstances, regulations and other laws. If a potentially material loss contingency is not probable, but is reasonably possible, or is probable but cannot be estimated, then the nature of the contingent liability is disclosed, together with an estimate of the range of possible loss if the range is determinable and material. In certain of the matters described below, we are not able to estimate potential liability because of the uncertainties related to the outcome(s) and/or the amount(s) or range(s) of loss. The ultimate resolution of pending regulatory and legal matters in future periods, including the matters described below, may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and/or liquidity. The Company may also incur material defense and settlement costs, diversion of management resources and other adverse effects on our business, financial condition, and/or results of operations.
Ethylene Oxide Tort Litigation
Sterigenics U.S., LLC (“Sterigenics”) and other medical supply sterilization companies have been subjected to tort lawsuits alleging various injuries caused by low-level environmental exposure to EO used at or emitted from sterilization facilities. Those lawsuits, as detailed further below, are individual claims, as opposed to class actions.
California
As of December 31, 2024, subsidiaries of the Company and other parties were defendants infour lawsuits in Los Angeles County Superior Court in which the plaintiffs are asserting 33 claims for personal injuries and wrongful death allegedly resulting from emissions and releases of EO from Sterigenics’ Vernon facilities (the “Vernon Cases”). The Vernon Cases have been assigned to one judge and discovery is underway.
We are vigorously defending the Vernon Cases.
Georgia
Subsidiaries of the Company and other parties are defendants in lawsuits in Georgia in which plaintiffs allege personal injuries, wrongful death and property devaluation resulting from use, emissions and releases of EO from or at Sterigenics’ Atlanta facility (the “Atlanta Cases”).
As of December 31, 2024, subsidiaries of the Company and other parties were defendants in 313 personal injury and wrongful death claims in the State Court of Cobb County (the “Georgia Trial Court”) and 312 of the claims have been consolidated for pretrial purposes (the “Consolidated Personal Injury Cases”). The Consolidated Personal Injury Cases are governed by a case management order pursuant to which general causation issues in a pool ofeight cases are to be adjudicated in Phase 1 and specific causation issues in the pool cases are to be adjudicated in Phase 2; the remaining Consolidated Personal Injury Cases (includingten cases that include both personal injury and property claims) are stayed. On November 22, 2024, the Georgia Trial Court issued a Phase 1 ruling on general causation issues granting in part and denying in part defendants’ motions to exclude certain Phase 1 expert testimony and defendants’ motions for summary judgment on Phase 1 issues (the “Phase 1 Ruling”). Both plaintiffs and defendants appealed the Phase 1 Ruling and these appeals are pending before the Georgia Court of Appeals. Phase 2 discovery in the pool cases is scheduled to take place through May 2025. One lawsuit has not been consolidated and the parties have jointly requested the Georgia Trial Court to stay the case along with the stayed cases in the Consolidated Personal Injury Cases.
As of December 31, 2024, subsidiaries of the Company and other parties were also defendants in a lawsuit pending in the Georgia Trial Court in which employees of a sterilization customer of Sterigenics allege they were injured while working at the customer’s distribution facility by exposure to residual EO allegedly emanating from products of the customer that had been sterilized by Sterigenics. Pursuant to the customer’s contract with Sterigenics, the customer is indemnifying Sterigenics against this lawsuit and discovery is underway.
As of December 31, 2024, subsidiaries of the Company were also defendants in 345 property devaluation lawsuits pending in the Georgia Trial Court that have been consolidated for pretrial purposes (the “Consolidated Property Cases”). A pool ofnine of the Consolidated Property Cases are proceeding under case management orders and the remaining cases are stayed.
We are vigorously defending the Atlanta Cases.
Illinois
As of December 31, 2024, subsidiaries of the Company and other parties were defendants in 96 lawsuits in Illinois in which plaintiffs allege personal injuries or wrongful deaths resulting from purported emissions and releases of EO from Sterigenics’ former Willowbrook facility (the “Willowbrook Cases”). The Willowbrook Cases are pending in the Circuit Court of Cook County and have been assigned to a single judge for coordinated discovery and pretrial proceedings. Two of the Willowbrook Cases are set for trial in April 2025 andfive of the Willowbrook Cases are set for trial in June 2025.
We are vigorously defending the Willowbrook Cases.
New Mexico
The Company and certain subsidiaries are defendants in a lawsuit in the Third Judicial District Court, Doña Ana County, New Mexico in which the New Mexico Attorney General (“NMAG”) alleges that emissions and releases of EO from Sterigenics’ facility in Santa Teresa have deteriorated the air quality in surrounding communities and materially contributed to increased health risks for residents of those communities. In April 2024, the Court of Appeals of the State of New Mexico denied the NMAG’s petition for leave to file an interlocutory appeal of an August 2023 order granting Sterigenics’ motion for summary judgment on strict liability, the Unfair Practices Act claim, and the claims for decreased property values, increased healthcare costs and medical monitoring costs. The case has been remanded to the District Court of Doña Ana County for further proceedings on the remaining claims. The case is set for trial in July 2026.
We are vigorously defending the NMAG’s remaining claims.
Additional EO lawsuits have been threatened relating to Sterigenics’ former facility in Willowbrook and existing facilities in Atlanta, Georgia; Charlotte, North Carolina; Grand Prairie, Texas; and Vernon, California and may be filed in the future relating to these or Sterigenics’ other EO facilities; these threats of additional EO lawsuits are comparable to threats that have similarly been made against other companies within our industry. Based on our view of the strength of the science and related evidence that emissions of EO from Sterigenics’ operations have not caused and could not have caused the harms alleged in such lawsuits, we believe that losses in the remaining or future EO cases through trials and any appeals that may prove necessary are not probable. Although the Company is vigorously defending against the EO tort claims, future settlements of EO tort claims are reasonably possible. The previously disclosed settlements of certain cases related to our facilities in Willowbrook and Atlanta Settlements and the resolution of the tort lawsuit pending in the United States District Court for the District of New Mexico (as previously disclosed in Note 14, Commitments and Contingencies of our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2024) were driven by dynamics unique to the claims that were settled and thus should not give rise to presumptions that the Company will settle additional EO tort claims and/or that any such settlements will be for comparable amounts.
Potential trial and settlement outcomes can vary widely based on a host of factors. EO tort lawsuits will be presided over by different judges, tried by different counsel presenting different evidence and decided by different juries. The substantive and procedural laws of jurisdictions vary and can meaningfully impact the litigation process and outcome of a case. Each plaintiff’s claim involves unique facts and evidence including the circumstances of the plaintiff’s alleged exposure, the type and severity of the plaintiff’s disease, the plaintiff’s medical history and course of treatment, the location of and other factors related to the plaintiff’s real property, and other circumstances. The outcomes of trials before juries are rarely certain and a judgment rendered or settlement reached in one case is not necessarily representative of potential outcomes of other seemingly comparable cases. As a result, it is not possible to estimate a reasonably possible loss or range of loss with respect to any future EO tort lawsuit, trial or settlement.
Insurance Coverage for Environmental Liabilities
An environmental liability insurance policy under which we have received coverage for the EO tort lawsuits in Georgia, Illinois and New Mexico described above had limits of $10.0 million per occurrence and $20.0 million in the aggregate. Those per occurrence and aggregate limits were fully utilized in the defense of the Georgia, Illinois and New Mexico litigation. Our insurance for future alleged environmental liabilities excludes coverage for EO claims.
We are pursuing additional insurance coverage for our legal expenses related to EO tort lawsuits. In 2021, Sterigenics filed an insurance coverage lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois (the “Illinois District Court”) relating to two commercial general liability policies issued in the 1980s (the “Northern District of Illinois Coverage Lawsuit”). The Illinois District Court issued an order declaring that the defendant insurer owes a duty to Sterigenics and another insured party to defend the Willowbrook Cases (the “Duty to Defend Order”) and entered judgment for Sterigenics in January 2024 in the amount of $110.2 million for certain defense costs incurred in the Willowbrook Cases as of August 2022 (the “Defense Costs Judgment”). The defendant insurer has appealed the Duty to Defend Order and Defense Costs Judgment; briefing is complete, and oral argument was held before the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit on September 25, 2024.
Sterigenics is also a party in insurance coverage lawsuits pending in the Circuit Court of Cook County, the Delaware Superior Court and the Los Angeles County Superior Court relating to insurance coverage from various historical commercial general liability policies for certain EO litigation settlement amounts and defense costs that the insurer against which a judgment has been secured in the Northern District of Illinois Coverage Lawsuit may fail to fund. The Delaware Superior Court case is stayed pending resolution of the coverage lawsuit in the Circuit Court of Cook County and the Los Angeles County Superior Court case remains in preliminary stages. It is not possible to predict how much, if any, of the insurance proceeds sought will ultimately be recovered.
Sotera Health Company Securities Litigation and Related Matters
In January 2023, a stockholder class action was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio(the “Ohio District Court”)against the Company, certain past and present directors and senior executives, the Company’s private equity stockholders and the underwriters of the Company’s initial public offering (“IPO”) in November 2020 and the Company’s secondary public offering (“SPO”) in March 2021 (the “Michigan Funds Litigation”). In April 2023, the Ohio District Court appointed the Oakland County Employees’ Retirement System, Oakland County Voluntary Employees’ Beneficiary Association, and Wayne County Employees’ Retirement System (the “Michigan Funds”) to serve as lead plaintiff to prosecute claims on behalf of a proposed class of stockholders who acquired shares of the Company in connection with our IPO or SPO between November 20, 2020 and September 19, 2022 (the “Proposed Class”). The Michigan Funds allege that certain statements made regarding the safety of the Company’s use of EO and/or the EO tort lawsuits and other risks of its EO operations violated Sections 11, 12(a)(2) and 15 of the Securities Act of 1933 (when made in the registration statements for the IPO and SPO) and Sections 10(b), Section 20(a) and Rule 10b-5 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (when made in subsequent securities filings and other contexts). Defendants have moved to dismiss the Amended Complaint, and that motion remains pending.
In May 2024, a stockholder derivative lawsuit was filed in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware (the “Delaware Chancery Court”) for the benefit of the Company as the nominal defendant (the “May 2024 Derivative Litigation”). The plaintiffs allege breaches of fiduciary duties, insider trading, unjust enrichment and other violations by certain past and present directors and senior executives of the Company and the Company’s private equity stockholders. On June 25, 2024, the Delaware Chancery Court stayed the May 2024 Derivative Litigation pending a ruling on the merits on the motion to dismiss the Amended Complaint in the Michigan Funds Litigation.
The Company is vigorously defending the Michigan Funds Litigation and, if necessary, plans to vigorously defend the May 2024 Derivative Litigation.
The Company has also received demands pursuant to 8 Del. C. §220 for inspections of its books and records (“220 Demands”) from shareholders purporting to investigate potential wrongdoing by Company fiduciaries and other issues relating to the Company’s statements regarding the safety of its use of EO and/or the EO tort lawsuits and other risks of its EO operations. The Company has produced documents in response to the 220 Demands and may produce additional documents.
- Financial Instruments and Financial Risk
Derivative Instruments
We do not use derivatives for trading or speculative purposes and are not a party to leveraged derivatives.
Derivatives Designated in Hedge Relationships
From time to time, the Company utilizes interest rate derivatives designated in hedge relationships to manage interest rate risk associated with our variable rate borrowings. These instruments are measured at fair value with changes in fair value recorded as a component of “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
In March 2023, we entered into an interest rate swap agreement with a notional amount of $400.0 million. The interest rate swap was effective on August 23, 2023 and expires on August 23, 2025. We have designated the interest rate swap as a cash flow hedge designed to hedge the variability of cash flows attributable to changes in the SOFR benchmark interest rate of our Term Loan (or any successor thereto). We receive interest at the one-month Term SOFR rate and pay a fixed interest rate under the terms of the swap agreement.
In May 2022, we entered intotwo interest rate cap agreements with a combined notional amount of $1,000.0 million for a total option premium of $4.1 million. The interest rate caps were effective on July 31, 2023 and expired on July 31, 2024. We designated these interest rate caps as cash flow hedges designed to hedge the variability of cash flows attributable to changes in the benchmark interest rate of our Term Loan (or any successor thereto). Under the current terms of the loan agreement, the benchmark interest rate index transitioned from LIBOR to the Term SOFR on June 30, 2023. Accordingly, the interest rate cap agreements hedged the variability of cash flows attributable to changes in SOFR by limiting our cash flow exposure related to Term SOFR under a portion of our variable rate borrowings to 3.5%.
In October 2021, we entered intotwo interest rate cap agreements with a combined notional amount of $1,000.0 million for a total option premium of $1.8 million. Both interest rate caps were effective on December 31, 2022 and expired on July 31, 2023. These interest rate caps were designated as cash flow hedges and were designed to hedge the variability of cash flows attributable to changes in LIBOR (or its successor), the benchmark interest rate being hedged, by limiting our cash flow exposure related to the LIBOR base rate under a portion of our variable rate borrowings to 1.0%.
Derivatives Not Designated in Hedge Relationships
Additionally, from time to time, the Company enters into interest rate derivatives to manage economic risks associated with our variable rate borrowings that are not designated in hedge relationships. These instruments are recorded at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, with any changes in the value being recorded in “Interest expense, net” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
The Company also routinely enters into foreign currency forward contracts to manage foreign currency exchange rate risk of our intercompany loans in certain of our international subsidiaries and non-functional currency assets and liabilities. The foreign currency forward contracts expire on a monthly basis.
Embedded Derivatives
We have embedded derivatives in certain of our customer and supply contracts as a result of the currency of the contract being different from the functional currency of the parties involved. Changes in the fair value of the embedded derivatives are recognized in “Other income, net” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).
The following table provides a summary of the notional and fair values of our derivative instruments:
| December 31, 2024 · December 31, 2023 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in U.S. dollars; notional in millions, fair value in thousands) | Fair Value | Fair Value | ||||
| Notional Amount | Derivative Assets | Derivative Liabilities | Notional Amount | Derivative Assets | Derivative Liabilities | |
| Derivatives designated as hedging instruments | ||||||
| Interest rate caps | $— | $— | $— | $1,000.0 | $8,763 | $— |
| Interest rate swaps | 400.0 | 459 | — | 400.0 | 1,487 | — |
| Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | ||||||
| Foreign currency forward contracts | 263.7 | 88 | 198 | 171.0 | 149 | 9 |
| Embedded derivatives | 230.8(a) | 2,689 | 4,098 | 150.1(a) | 1,225 | 405 |
| Total | $894.5 | $3,236 | $4,296 | $1,721.1 | $11,624 | $414 |
(a)Represents the total notional amounts for certain of the Company’s supply and sales contracts accounted for as embedded derivatives.
Embedded derivatives assets and foreign currency forward contracts are included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets” and “Accrued Liabilities” on our Consolidated Balance Sheets depending upon their position at period end. Interest rate swaps and interest rate caps are included in “Other assets” and “Noncurrent liabilities” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets depending upon their position at period end.
The following tables summarize the activities of our derivative instruments for the periods presented, and the line item they are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss):
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Year Ended December 31, | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
| Realized gain on interest rate derivatives recorded in interest expense, net(a) | $(13,233) | $(33,094) | $(12,226) |
| Unrealized loss (gain) on embedded derivatives recorded in other income, net | 2,213 | (1,637) | 1,324 |
| Realized loss (gain) on foreign currency forward contracts recorded in foreign exchange loss | 18,055 | (2,025) | 3,931 |
| Unrealized loss (gain) on foreign currency forward contracts recorded in foreign exchange loss | 249 | (412) | 272 |
(a) Amounts represent periodic settlement of interest rate caps and swaps.
We expect to reclassify approximately $0.5 million of after-tax net gains on derivative instruments from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to income during the next 12 months associated with our cash flow hedges. Refer to Note 13, “Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)” for unrealized gains on interest rate derivatives, net of applicable tax, recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) and amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to interest expense, net of applicable tax, during the years ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.
Credit Risk
Certain of our financial assets, including cash and cash equivalents, are exposed to credit risk.
We are also exposed, in our normal course of business, to credit risk from our customers. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, accounts receivable was net of an allowance for uncollectible accounts of $2.5 million and $4.7 million, respectively.
Credit risk on financial instruments arises from the potential for counterparties to default on their contractual obligations to us. We are exposed to credit risk in the event of non-performance, but do not anticipate non-performance by any of the counterparties to our financial instruments. We limit our credit risk by dealing with counterparties that are considered to be of high credit quality. In the event of non-performance by counterparties, the carrying value of our financial instruments represents the maximum amount of loss that would be incurred.
Our credit team evaluates and regularly monitors changes in the credit risk of our customers. We routinely assess the collectability of accounts receivable and maintain an adequate allowance for uncollectible accounts to address potential credit losses. The process includes a review of customer financial information and credit ratings, current market conditions as well as the expected future economic conditions that may impact the collection of trade receivables. We regularly review our customers’ past due amounts through an analysis of aged accounts receivables, specific customer past due aging amounts, and the history of trade receivables written off. Upon concluding that a receivable balance is not collectible, the balance is written off against the allowance for uncollectible accounts.
Fair Value Hierarchy
The fair value of our financial instruments is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The valuation techniques we would use to determine such fair values are described as follows: Level 1—fair values determined by inputs utilizing quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; Level 2—fair values based on observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable; Level 3—fair values determined by unobservable inputs reflecting our own assumptions, consistent with reasonably available assumptions made by other market participants.
The following table discloses the fair value our financial assets and liabilities:
| As of December 31, 2024 | Fair Value | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | Carrying Amount | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 |
| Derivatives designated as hedging instruments(a) | ||||
| Interest rate swap | $459 | $— | $459 | $— |
| Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments(b) | ||||
| Foreign currency forward contract assets | 88 | — | 88 | — |
| Foreign currency forward contract liabilities | 198 | — | 198 | — |
| Embedded derivative assets | 2,689 | — | 2,689 | — |
| Embedded derivative liabilities | 4,098 | — | 4,098 | — |
| Current portion of long-term debt(c) | ||||
| Term Loan, due 2031 | 14,803 | — | 15,123 | — |
| Long-Term Debt(c) | ||||
| Secured Notes, due 2031 | 746,293 | — | 759,375 | — |
| Term loan, due 2031 | 1,461,807 | — | 1,493,314 | — |
| Finance Lease Obligations (with current portion)(d) | 98,209 | — | 98,209 | — |
| As of December 31, 2023 | Fair Value | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | Carrying Amount | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 |
| Derivatives designated as hedging instruments(a) | ||||
| Interest rate caps | $8,763 | $— | $8,763 | $— |
| Interest rate swap | 1,487 | — | 1,487 | — |
| Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments(b) | ||||
| Foreign currency forward contracts assets | 149 | — | 149 | — |
| Foreign currency forward contracts liabilities | 9 | $— | $9 | $— |
| Embedded derivative assets | 1,225 | — | 1,225 | — |
| Embedded derivative liabilities | 405 | — | 405 | — |
| Current portion of long-term debt(c) | ||||
| Term Loan B, due 2026 | 4,797 | — | 5,000 | — |
| Long-Term Debt(c) | ||||
| Term Loan, due 2026 | 1,751,197 | — | 1,758,163 | — |
| Term Loan B, due 2026 | 472,477 | — | 492,500 | — |
| Finance Lease Obligations (with current portion)(d) | 72,564 | — | 72,564 | — |
(a)Derivatives designated as hedging instruments are measured at fair value with changes in fair value recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Interest rate caps and swaps are valued using pricing models that incorporate observable market inputs including interest rate curves and yield curves. Additional information is provided in Note 1, “Significant Accounting Policies.”
(b)Derivatives that are not designated as hedging instruments are measured at fair value with gains or losses recognized immediately in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). Refer also to Note 1, “Significant Accounting Policies.” Embedded derivatives are valued using internally developed models that rely on observable market inputs, including foreign currency forward curves. Foreign currency forward contracts are valued by reference to changes in foreign currency exchange rate over the life of the contract.
(c)Carrying amounts of current portion of long-term debt and long-term debt instruments are reported net of discounts and debt issuance costs. The estimated fair value of these instruments are based upon quoted prices for each Term Loan and the Secured Notes in inactive markets as provided by an independent fixed income security pricing service.
(d)Refer to Note 17, “Leases.” Fair value approximates carrying value.
- Segment and Geographic Information
We identify our operating segments based on the way we manage, evaluate and internally report our business activities for purposes of allocating resources and assessing performance. We have three reportable segments: Sterigenics, Nordion and Nelson Labs. We have determined our reportable segments based upon an assessment of organizational structure, service types, and internally prepared financial statements. Our chief operating decision maker, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sotera Health Company (“CODM”), evaluates performance and allocates resources based on segment income after the elimination of intercompany activities. The CODM uses these performance measures to inform decisions about the operations of the business and dedication of resources to selling and general administrative matters pertinent to the Company. The accounting policies of our reportable segments are the same as those described in Note 1, “Significant Accounting Policies.”
Sterigenics provides outsourced terminal sterilization and irradiation services for the medical device, pharmaceutical, food safety and advanced applications markets using three major technologies: gamma irradiation, EO processing and E-beam irradiation.
Nordion
Nordion is a leading global provider of Co-60 used in the sterilization and irradiation processes for the medical device, pharmaceutical, food safety, and high-performance materials industries, as well as in the treatment of cancer. In addition, Nordion is a leading global provider of gamma irradiation systems.
Nelson Labs provides outsourced microbiological and analytical chemistry testing and advisory services for the medical device and pharmaceutical industries.
Segment Revenue Concentrations
For the year ended December 31, 2024, two customers reported within the Nordion segment individually represented 10% or more of the segment’s total net revenues. These customers represented 21.3% and 13.0% of the total segment’s external net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2024. For the year ended December 31, 2023, three customers reported within the Nordion segment individually represented 10% or more of the segment’s total net revenues. These customers represented 20.1%,14.8%, and 13.9% of the total segment’s external net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023. For the year ended December 31, 2022, five customers reported within the Nordion segment individually represented 10% or more of the segment’s total net revenues. These customers represented 17.7%,13.6%,11.2%,10.7% and 10.2% of the total segment’s external net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2022.
Financial information for each of our segments is presented in the following table:
| Year Ended December 31, 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | Sterigenics | Nordion | Nelson Labs | Total |
| Net revenues(a) | $697,853 | $173,355 | $229,233 | $1,100,441 |
| Segment expenses(b) | 286,434 | 67,087 | 155,088 | 508,609 |
| Corporate expense allocation(c) | 33,248 | 5,048 | 4,962 | 43,258 |
| Segment income | $378,171 | $101,220 | $69,183 | $548,574 |
| Year Ended December 31, 2023 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | Sterigenics | Nordion | Nelson Labs | Total |
| Net revenues(a) | $667,130 | $160,459 | $221,699 | $1,049,288 |
| Segment expenses(b) | 275,424 | 59,399 | 148,209 | 483,032 |
| Corporate expense allocation(c) | 29,494 | 4,382 | 4,351 | 38,227 |
| Segment income | $362,212 | $96,678 | $69,139 | $528,029 |
| Year Ended December 31, 2022 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | Sterigenics | Nordion | Nelson Labs | Total |
| Net revenues(a) | $626,646 | $153,639 | $223,402 | $1,003,687 |
| Segment expenses(b) | 260,295 | 60,119 | 141,761 | 462,175 |
| Corporate expense allocation(c) | 27,207 | 4,043 | 4,013 | 35,263 |
| Segment income | $339,144 | $89,477 | $77,628 | $506,249 |
(a)Revenues are reported net of intersegment sales. Our Nordion segment recognized $58.7 million, $43.9 million and $52.4 million in revenues from sales to our Sterigenics segment for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively, that is not reflected in net revenues in the table above. Intersegment sales for Sterigenics and Nelson Labs are immaterial for all periods presented.
(b)Segment expenses are comprised of direct materials, labor, utilities, other costs of revenues, SG&A, and other non-operating expense (income) attributable to each segment.
(c)Corporate operating expenses that are directly incurred by a segment are reflected in each segment’s income. The remaining Corporate operating expenses for executive management, accounting, information technology, legal, human resources, treasury, investor relations, corporate development, tax, purchasing, and marketing not directly incurred by a segment are allocated to the segments primarily based on total net revenue.
Capital expenditures by segment for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 were as follows:
| Year Ended December 31, | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
| Sterigenics | $131,258 | $163,043 | $144,027 |
| Nordion | 34,928 | 38,351 | 26,575 |
| Nelson Labs | 12,884 | 13,581 | 11,776 |
| Total capital expenditures | $179,070 | $214,975 | $182,378 |
Total assets and depreciation and amortization expense by segment are not readily available and are not reported separately to the CODM.
A reconciliation of segment income to consolidated income (loss) before taxes is as follows:
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Year Ended December 31, | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
| Segment income | $548,574 | $528,029 | $506,249 |
| Less adjustments: | |||
| Interest expense, net(a) | 164,691 | 142,878 | 78,490 |
| Depreciation and amortization(b) | 161,797 | 157,925 | 145,554 |
| Share-based compensation(c) | 36,896 | 32,364 | 21,211 |
| Loss on refinancing of debt(d) | 24,168 | — | — |
| (Gain) loss on foreign currency and derivatives not designated as hedging instruments, net(e) | 2,448 | (1,552) | 3,150 |
| Business optimization expenses(f) | 7,504 | 7,662 | 8,509 |
| Impairment of investment in unconsolidated affiliate(g) | — | — | 9,613 |
| Professional services relating to EO sterilization facilities(h) | 32,694 | 45,312 | 72,639 |
| Illinois EO litigation settlement(i) | — | — | 408,000 |
| Georgia EO litigation settlement(j) | — | 35,000 | — |
| Secondary offering and other shareholder activities(k) | 1,864 | — | — |
| Accretion of asset retirement obligation(l) | 2,638 | 2,413 | 2,194 |
| Consolidated income (loss) before taxes | $113,874 | $106,027 | $(243,111) |
(a)Interest expense, net presented in this reconciliation for the year ended December 31, 2023 has been adjusted to conform to the current year presentation to include interest expense, net on Term Loan B due 2026 attributable to the loan proceeds that were used to fund the$408.0 million Illinois EO litigation settlement. The year ended December 31, 2022 excludes a$1.7 million unrealized loss on interest rate derivatives not designated as hedging instruments.
(b)Includes depreciation of Co-60 held at gamma irradiation sites. The year ended December 31, 2024 excludes accelerated depreciation associated with business optimization activities.
(c)Represents share-based compensation expense to employees and Non-Employee Directors. See Note 15, “Share-Based Compensation” for further information.
(d)Represents the write-off of unamortized debt issuance costs and discounts, as well as certain other costs incurred related to the Refinancing Term Loans and the Secured Notes. The year ended December 31, 2024 also includes $0.7 million of debt refinancing costs related to Amendment No. 3 to the Senior Secured Credit Facilities.
(e)Represents the effects of (i) fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and (ii) non-cash mark-to-fair value of embedded derivatives relating to certain customer and supply contracts at Nordion.
(f)Represents (i) certain costs related to acquisitions and the integration of recent acquisitions, (ii) the earnings impact of fair value adjustments (excluding those recognized within amortization expense) resulting from the businesses acquired, (iii) transition services income and non-cash deferred lease income associated with the terms of the divestiture of the Medical Isotopes business in 2018, (iv) professional fees and other costs associated with business optimization, cost saving and other process enhancement projects, and (v) professional fees, payroll costs, and other costs, including ongoing lease and utility expenses associated with the closure of the Willowbrook, Illinois facility. The year ended December 31, 2023 includes a $1.0 million cancellation fee received from a tenant in connection with the termination of an office space lease at the Nordion facility.
(g)Represents an impairment charge on an equity method investment in a joint venture.
(h)Represents litigation and other professional fees associated with our EO sterilization facilities. Amounts presented for the year ended December 31, 2023 have been adjusted to exclude interest expense, net associated with Term Loan B due 2026 attributable to the loan proceeds that were used to fund the $408.0 million Illinois EO litigation settlement.
(i)Represents the cost to settle 880 pending and threatened EO claims in Illinois pursuant to settlement agreements entered into on March 28, 2023. See Note 19, “Commitments and Contingencies.”
(j)Represents the cost to settle 79 pending EO claims in Georgia under a settlement entered into on December 21, 2023. See Note 19, “Commitments and Contingencies.”
(k)Represents expenses incurred in connection with secondary offerings of our common stock that closed on March 4, 2024 and September 6, 2024 and legal, consulting, and other fees associated with shareholder engagement.
(l)Represents non-cash accretion of ARO related to Co-60 gamma and EO processing facilities, which are based on estimated site remediation costs for any future decommissioning of these facilities and are accreted over the life of the asset.
Geographic Information
Net revenues for geographic area are reported by the country’s origin of the revenues.
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Year Ended December 31, | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
| United States | $616,684 | $590,967 | $579,018 |
| Canada | 208,886 | 192,050 | 188,741 |
| Europe | 196,011 | 187,542 | 166,025 |
| Other | 78,860 | 78,729 | 69,903 |
| Total | $1,100,441 | $1,049,288 | $1,003,687 |
The ‘Other’ category above is primarily comprised of net revenues from Asian and Latin American countries that individually represent 3% or less of our total net revenues.
Long-lived assets are based on physical locations and are comprised of the net book value of property, plant, and equipment.
| (thousands of U.S. dollars) | ||
|---|---|---|
| As of December 31, | 2024 | 2023 |
| United States | $587,707 | $494,793 |
| Canada | 188,498 | 181,628 |
| Europe | 174,227 | 170,669 |
| Other | 86,460 | 99,824 |
| Total | $1,036,892 | $946,914 |
The ‘Other’ category above is primarily comprised of long-lived assets in Asian and Latin American countries that individually represent 5% or less of our total long-lived assets.
The text of this filing, as the company filed it with the SEC, without its images or exhibits. This is not investment advice.