Fiscal 2024 Results
Issy-les-Moulineaux, France – October 31st, 2024
Pluxee achieved outstanding performance in Fiscal 2024 exceeding all business and financial objectives
Fiscal 2025 and 2026 objectives upgraded
Highlights
- All business targets achieved - Strong commercial development fueled by continuous investment in Pluxee's full range of innovative solutions, powerful commercial engine and best-in-class tech capabilities
- €1,210m Total revenues, representing +18.6% Organic revenue growth, well above low double-digit target
- €430m Recurring EBITDA, growing +24.8% organically, with a Recurring EBITDA margin at 35.6% reported, i.e. 36.4% on an organic basis implying a +183bps increase, compared to initial objective of stable margin
- €379m Recurring free cash flow, i.e. 88% cash conversion rate significantly above 70% target and increased Net financial cash position of €1,054m
- Enhanced shareholder distribution policy with €0.35 proposed dividend per share, corresponding to a 25% payout based on an expanded basis of Adjusted net profit1 at €203m
- Fiscal 2025 and 2026 financial objectives revised upward reflecting the Group's confidence in structural market growth trends, its proven business model and ability to deliver successfully on its strategic plan:
- low double-digit Organic revenue growth each year confirmed on a higher Fiscal 2024 base;
- +75bps Recurring EBITDA margin expansion expected in each of Fiscal 2025 and 20262, leading to delivery of the initial 3-year target of +250bps organic increase one year ahead of plan
- above 75% Recurring cash conversion rate on average over Fiscal 2024-2026 vs. above 70% previously
Fiscal 2024 key figures
| (in million euros) | Fiscal 2024 | Fiscal 2023 | Organic growth | Total Growth |
| Total Revenues | 1,210 | 1,052 | 18.6% | 15.0% |
| Recurring EBITDA | 430 | 363 | 24.8% | 18.5% |
| Recurring EBITDA margin | 35.6% | 34.5% | +183bps | +105bps |
| Net profit for the year⁽³⁾ | 133 | 81 | 64.2% | |
| Recurring free cash flow | 379 | 289⁽⁴⁾ | 31.1% | |
| Recurring cash conversion (%) | 88% | 80%⁽⁴⁾ | ||
| Net Financial (Debt) / Cash | 1,054 | 859 |
Aurélien Sonet, Chief Executive Officer of Pluxee, commented:
"As we conclude our first fiscal year, I am proud to announce that we have exceeded all our business and financial objectives. Fiscal 2024 was marked by the significant transformation of the Group as a standalone and listed company and by the delivery of outstanding Organic revenue growth, strong Recurring EBITDA margin expansion and robust cash conversion. Demonstrating our commitment to a clear capital allocation framework, we have made significant strides on our M&A roadmap with the deployment of our partnership with Santander in Brazil and the successful acquisition of Cobee in Spain while pursuing our investments in growth and enhancing our shareholder distribution policy.
These achievements reflect the remarkable efforts and unwavering commitment of all our employees and I would like to thank them for their contribution to this success. As we transition to Fiscal 2025, I am confident that Pluxee is well-positioned to deliver on its objectives going forward, continuing to generate sustainable low double-digit organic growth combined with steady margin expansion and strong cash flow generation. This is underpinned by the disciplined execution of our strategic roadmap, driven by product innovation, a powerful commercial engine, best-in-class tech capabilities and a targeted M&A strategy, creating value for all our shareholders, clients, consumers and merchant partners."
1 Adjusted net profit is defined in the section Alternative performance measures (APM) in the appendix.
2 At Fiscal 2024 constant rates
3 Attributable to the equity holders of the parent
4 Excluding a positive impact from the evolution in regulation in Brazil (€191m)
Fiscal 2024 results
The Board of Directors of Pluxee N.V. prepared the financial statements for the full year Fiscal 2024. The Group's statutory auditor completed the audit of the full year consolidated financial statements.
Fiscal 2024 Income statement
| (in million euros) | Fiscal 2024 | Fiscal 2023 | Total Growth |
| Total Revenues | 1,210 | 1,052 | 15.0% |
| Operating expenses | (780) | (689) | |
| Recurring EBITDA | 430 | 363 | 18.5% |
| Recurring EBITDA margin | 35.6% | 34.5% | +105bps |
| Depreciation, amortization and impairment | (89) | (78) | |
| Recurring operating profit (Recurring EBIT) | 341 | 285 | 19.8% |
| Recurring operating profit margin | 28.2% | 27.1% | +113bps |
| Other operating income and expenses | (92) | (150) | |
| Operating profit (EBIT) | 250 | 135 | 85.1% |
| Financial income and expenses | (20) | 28 | |
| Profit before tax for the year | 230 | 163 | 41.1% |
| Income tax expense | (91) | (80) | |
| Share of net profit of companies accounted for using the equity method | (0) | — | — |
| Net profit for the year | 139 | 83 | 67.3% |
| Of which: | |||
| Attributable to the equity holders of the parent | 133 | 81 | 64.2% |
| Attributable to non-controlling interests | 6 | 2 |
The consolidated financial statements were prepared in thousands of euros and are presented in million euros, after rounding to the nearest million (unless otherwise specified). As a result, there may be rounding differences between the amounts reported in the various statements.
Strong business momentum in Fiscal 2024
Total Business volumes issued reached 24.0 billion euros in Fiscal 2024. Employee Benefits business volumes stood at 18.1 billion euros of which 4.4 billion euros in the fourth quarter, representing sustained organic growth of +11.5% over the fiscal year, including +11.1% in the fourth quarter.
The strong commercial dynamics across regions were driven by significant new client wins and strong net retention including a further significant increase in average face value and a growing portfolio contribution driven by cross-selling.
This robust performance was supported by the continuous enrichment of the Group's offering through further product innovation and complementary technological and data capabilities to continue improving the client and consumer experience. The Group has also consistently leveraged its powerful commercial engine and segmented sales and digital marketing strategy, along with its dedicated approach to the small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) segment.
+18.6% Organic revenue growth in Fiscal 2024
Total Revenues reached 1,210 million euros in Fiscal 2024, a +15.0% increase compared to Fiscal 2023. This amount includes a currency translation effect of -3.9% mainly due to operations in Türkiye and Brazil, particularly in Q4, and a positive scope effect of +0.4%, related to the integration of Santander Brazil's Employee Benefits activity following the closing of the strategic partnership in June 2024.
Organic growth was +18.6% in Fiscal 2024, significantly above the low double-digit Organic revenue growth objective communicated during the Capital Markets Day. This outstanding performance was primarily driven by positive business momentum in Employee Benefits and high float revenue.
In the fourth quarter, Total Revenues grew organically +10.6%, i.e. +5.7% total growth including a -6.1% currency impact.
Total Revenues by nature
| (in million euros) | Fiscal 2024 | Fiscal 2023 | Organic Growth (%) | Total Growth (%) |
| Operating revenue | 1,055 | 953 | 13.3% | 10.7% |
| Float revenue | 155 | 99 | 69.0% | 56.4% |
| Total Revenues | 1,210 | 1,052 | 18.6% | 15.0% |
| (in million euros) | Fiscal Q4 2024 | Fiscal Q4 2023 | Organic Growth (%) | Total Growth (%) |
| Operating revenue | 281 | 270 | 8.1% | 3.8% |
| Float revenue | 40 | 33 | 30.3% | 20.6% |
| Total Revenues | 320 | 303 | 10.6% | 5.7% |
Operating revenue reached 1,055 million euros, representing +13.3% organic growth in Fiscal 2024 and +10.7% total growth including a -2.9% currency translation effect and a +0.3% scope effect. Pluxee sustained its double-digit growth trajectory in Operating revenue, driven by Employee Benefits.
Operating revenue organic growth amounted to +8.1% in the fourth quarter. The strong underlying business trends were partially offset by well-flagged base effects in Latin America that will fade in the course of First Half Fiscal 2025.
Float revenue rose to 155 million euros in Fiscal 2024, increasing +69.0% organically compared to the previous year, i.e. +56.4% total growth including a -14.0% currency translation effect. The increase was driven by the continuous positive momentum in business volumes issued expanding the Float base, coupled with high interest rates overall and the Group's ability to seize investment opportunities.
In the fourth quarter Fiscal 2024, Float revenue continued to grow +30.3% on an organic basis compared to fourth quarter Fiscal 2023, to reach 40 million euros.
Operating revenue by line of service
| (in million euros) | Fiscal 2024 | Fiscal 2023 | Organic Growth (%) | Total Growth (%) |
| Employee Benefits | 892 | 786 | 16.7% | 13.6% |
| Other products and services | 163 | 167 | -2.7% | -2.7% |
| Total Operating revenue | 1,055 | 953 | 13.3% | 10.7% |
| (in million euros) | Fiscal Q4 2024 | Fiscal Q4 2023 | Organic Growth (%) | Total Growth (%) |
| Employee Benefits | 242 | 225 | 12.1% | 7.2% |
| Other products and services | 39 | 45 | -12.4% | -13.1% |
| Total Operating revenue | 281 | 270 | 8.1% | 3.8% |
Employee Benefits generated Operating revenue of 892 million euros in Fiscal 2024, growing +16.7% organically, i.e. +13.6% total growth including a -3.5% currency effect, and accounting for 85% of Total Operating revenue. This performance was propelled by strong commercial dynamics leading to double digit growth in business volumes issued supported by steady improvement of +22bps in the average take-up rate reaching 4.95% in Fiscal 2024.
In the fourth quarter Fiscal 2024, Employee Benefits generated Operating revenue of 242 million euros with organic growth of +12.1%, confirming the positive momentum.
Other Products and Services generated Operating revenue of 163 million euros in Fiscal 2024 compared to 167 million euros in Fiscal 2023 and representing 15% of Total Operating revenue. The performance of Other Products and Services reflected the base effects in some Public benefit contracts, including the discontinuation of a contract in Chile and large programs issued in Fiscal 2023 in Continental Europe. The Group has also initiated a portfolio rationalization in the UK and U.S. to focus on digital Employee Engagement offerings. Except in Chile, all significant Public benefit contracts have been successfully renewed paving the way for a progressive return to growth in Fiscal 2025.
In the fourth quarter Fiscal 2024, Other Products and Services generated Operating revenue of 39 million euros compared to 45 million euros in Fiscal 2023.
Operating revenue by region
| (in million euros) | Fiscal 2024 | Fiscal 2023 | Organic Growth (%) | Total Growth (%) |
| Continental Europe | 472 | 423 | 11.5% | 11.4% |
| Latin America | 405 | 360 | 13.2% | 12.5% |
| Rest of the world | 178 | 170 | 18.0% | 5.2% |
| Total Operating revenue | 1,055 | 953 | 13.3% | 10.7% |
| (in million euros) | Fiscal Q4 2024 | Fiscal Q4 2023 | Organic Growth (%) | Total Growth (%) |
| Continental Europe | 131 | 117 | 12.7% | 12.7% |
| Latin America | 103 | 109 | 2.5% | -5.5% |
| Rest of the world | 46 | 45 | 10.0% | 3.3% |
| Total Operating revenue | 281 | 270 | 8.1% | 3.8% |
In Continental Europe, Operating revenue reached 472 million euros in Fiscal 2024, representing organic growth of +11.5% and total growth of +11.4%. This performance was driven by strong commercial momentum in Western European countries, especially Belgium and France, while facing higher comparison bases in Central and Eastern Europe, especially over the second half of Fiscal 2024. As an example, the French security forces entrusted Pluxee with ensuring meal benefits for more than 90,000 civil servants and military personnel during the Paris 2024 Olympics. Positive momentum was also fueled by the continuous increase in average face value to progressively reach the legal face value cap as raised by Public Authorities. Cross-selling across Pluxee's product range also significantly contributed to the steady performance delivered over the year in the region. In Belgium, the Group leveraged a non-recurring government measure supporting purchasing power by deploying a one-off benefit program, notably to existing clients, driving up cross-selling.
In the fourth quarter Fiscal 2024, Operating revenue in Continental Europe grew +12.7% organically, returning to an improved growth profile.
In Latin America, Operating revenue reached 405 million euros in Fiscal 2024, growing +13.2% organically, i.e. +12.5% total growth including a -1.5% currency impact related mainly to Brazil and Mexico especially over the fourth quarter. Solid performance in the region resulted from strong new development, driven notably by the growing penetration of small and medium enterprises. In Brazil and Mexico, small and medium enterprises represented around 35% of business volume growth over the fiscal year. Pluxee continued to pro-actively manage its portfolio, constantly leveraging analytics to advise clients in upgrading face values.
The performance in the region in the second half of Fiscal 2024 reflected the base effects related to the change in regulation in Brazil in May 2023 as well as the discontinuation of a Public benefit contract in Chile. Both effects will fade in the course of First Half Fiscal 2025.
In Rest of the world, Operating revenue amounted to 178 million euros in Fiscal 2024, showing +18.0% Organic growth excluding a -12.8% currency impact mostly related to the evolution of the Turkish Lira. Organic growth was driven in the region by increasing adoption and usage of Pluxee solutions across countries. In Türkiye’s hyperinflationary environment, the Group managed to generate an additional increase in average face value within the existing client portfolio and further penetrated the meal benefit segment by signing new client contracts.. Development was also particularly strong in India across the full Employee benefit products range.
In the fourth quarter Fiscal 2024, Operating revenue came in at 46 million euros, up +10.0% organically and total growth of +3.3% including currency impacts. Positive business dynamics translated into solid double-digit organic growth in most of the countries, especially in Türkiye and India, while the UK and the U.S. underwent the rationalization of their portfolio to focus on digital Employee Engagement offerings.
Recurring EBITDA margin up +183bps on an organic basis
Recurring EBITDA reached 430 million euros in Fiscal 2024, up +24.8% organically and +18.5% year-on-year including a +0.5% scope effect and a -6.8% currency effect. Recurring EBITDA margin increased by +183bps on an organic basis while absorbing standalone costs, reaching 36.4%, well above the Group's objective of at least 34.5% at constant rates, subsequently increased to at least 35%. On a reported basis, Recurring EBITDA margin stood at 35.6%, representing a +105bps increase including currency impacts.
The increase in Recurring EBITDA, absorbing the new standalone costs, was driven by steady growth in business volumes, fueling the increase in Operating revenue in all regions, a positive contribution of Float revenue as well as the preliminary effects of the operating leverage and efficiency gains. This improvement became more apparent in the second half of Fiscal 2024, while the First Half reflected one-off effects related to the spin-off such as management fees still invoiced by Sodexo. All the regions contributed to this substantial increase in Recurring EBITDA.
Recurring operating profit (Recurring EBIT) was 341 million euros, up +19.8% year-on-year. This includes -89 million euros of Depreciation and amortization charges for the year, compared to -78 million euros in Fiscal 2023.
Other operating income and expenses amounted to -92 million euros in Fiscal 2024, compared to -150 million euros in Fiscal 2023 which incorporated the provision of -127 million euros related to the competition proceedings in Francel. For the fiscal year, Other operating expenses included the one-off charges related to (i) the Spin‑off and listing, including the rebranding that introduced the new identity of the Group, for a total amount of -62 million euros, (ii) the write-off of specific digital assets related to the Zeta platform now limited to two countries for a total amount of -16 million euros, (iii) restructuring and rationalization costs of -8 million euros as well as (iv) M&A costs related to business combinations for -7 million euros. Other operating income encompassed a capital gain of 6 million euros on disposal of investments in equity-accounted companies.
Operating profit (EBIT) in Fiscal 2024 was 250 million euros compared to 135 million euros in Fiscal 2023.
Increase in Net profit by +€56m
Financial income and expenses came in at -20 million euros in Fiscal 2024, compared to 28 million euros in Fiscal 2023. The Group recorded -52 million euros of gross borrowing costs in Fiscal 2024 in connection with the new capital structure established as part of the Spin-off compared to -20 million euros in Fiscal 2023. It also included 44 million euros of interest income generated from the non-Float-related cash position and -12 million euros of Other financial income and expenses comprising the effects of hyperinflation in Türkiye and the net gains and losses from foreign exchange fluctuations.
Income tax expense was -91 million euros in Fiscal 2024. The Effective tax rate decreased from 49.1% in Fiscal 2023 including the impacts of the competition proceedings in France, to 39.5% in Fiscal 2024, reflecting the effect of one-off costs related to the Spin-off.
Net profit for the year was 139 million euros in Fiscal 2024, compared to 83 million euros in Fiscal 2023, reflecting the significant increase in Total Revenues and Recurring EBITDA, the new capital structure of the Group as well as Other operating expenses and Income tax expense specifically related to Fiscal 2024.
Net profit attributable to equity holders of the parent was 133 million euros compared to 81 million euros in the previous fiscal year and Basic Earnings Per Share attributable to equity holders of the parent was 0.91 euro in Fiscal 2024 compared to 0.55 euro in Fiscal 2023.
Adjusted Net profit standing at €203m
| Attributable to the equity holders of the parent | Fiscal 2024 | Fiscal 2023 |
| Net profit for the year (in million euros) | 133 | 81 |
| Basic earnings per share (in euro) | 0.91 | 0.55 |
| Diluted earnings per share (in euro) | 0.90 | 0.55 |
| Adjusted net profit for the year (in million euros) | 203 | 225 |
| Adjusted basic earnings per share (in euro) | 1.39 | 1.54 |
| Adjusted diluted earnings per share (in euro) | 1.38 | 1.53 |
Adjusted net profit attributable to the equity holders of the parent was 203 million euros in Fiscal 2024, compared to 225 million euros in Fiscal 2023 reflecting the new capital structure of the Group following the Spin-off. Adjusted net profit excludes Other operating income and expenses net of related income tax and related non-controlling interests shares.
Adjusted basic earnings per share came in at 1.39 euro in Fiscal 2024.
Enhanced shareholder distribution policy
Consistently with the capital allocation framework presented at the Capital Markets Day, the Group has enhanced its distribution policy with 25% payout now based on Adjusted net profit (attributable to the equity holders of the parent) representing an expanded basis of 203 million euros.
As such, it is proposed that the General Meeting adopt, with due observance of the Group's articles of association and dividend policy, a dividend of €0.35 per ordinary share. This proposal would represent a total dividend payment of 51 million euros. On approval, Pluxee ordinary shares will trade ex-dividend as from December 20, 2024, the dividend record date will be on December 23, 2024, and payment of the dividend will take place on December 24, 2024.
Strong Recurring free cash flow at €379m and Recurring Cash conversion rate at 88%
Recurring free cash flow was 379 million euros in Fiscal 2024, compared to 289 million euros in Fiscal 2023 excluding the one-off impact in Change in working capital related to the evolution in regulation in Brazil in May 2023, i.e. 480 million euros reported.
Capital Expenditures were 116 million euros in Fiscal 2024, representing 9.6% of Total Revenues, compared to the objective of c. 10% of Total Revenues. It reflected the Group's commitment to leveraging the positive revenue growth momentum to invest further, especially in IT infrastructure following the spin-off as well as in technology and data, paving the way for the future growth.
Change in Working capital excluding Restricted cash stood at 168 million euros compared to 92 million euros in Fiscal 2023 excluding the one-off impact of the evolution in regulation in Brazil. Positive evolution in Change in Working capital reflected strong volume growth in Fiscal 2024.
Recurring cash conversion rate came in at 88% in Fiscal 2024 compared to 80% in Fiscal 2023 adjusted from the positive impact from the evolution in regulation in Brazil mentioned above (i.e. 132% reported), substantially exceeding the average 70% financial objective for Fiscal 2024-2026.
Increased Net financial cash position at €1,054m
Cash and cash equivalents reached 1,421 million euros as of August 31, 2024 compared to 1,625 million euros as of August 31, 2023. Current financial assets stood at 814 million euros as of August 31, 2024 compared to 542 million euros as of August 31, 2023. This increase is mainly driven by the gradual diversification of the Group's investment policy, which included an extension of investment maturity to further optimize returns in an expected decreasing rate environment. Cash and cash equivalents were mostly invested in (i) interest-bearing current accounts and (ii) short-term deposits with banks as well as other deposit products such as money market funds.
The cumulated amount of liquidity, including 973 million euros of Restricted cash related to the Float, reached 3,208 million euros as of August 31, 2024.
Gross debt amounted to 1,181 million euros1 in Fiscal 2024, mainly corresponding to the issuance of bonds. On February 27, 2024, Pluxee successfully placed two inaugural bonds totaling 1,100 million euros consisting of (i) a 550 million euro bond issue with a 4.5-year maturity and a coupon of 3.50% and (ii) a 550 million euro bond issue with a 8.5-year maturity and a coupon of 3.75%. This allowed to fully repay the bridge loan on March 4, 2024. To secure its liquidity, the Group has a revolving credit facility amounting to 650 million euros, now maturing in October 2029, after having obtained bank approval on October 2, 2024, to extend the original termination date by an additional year.
Net Financial (Debt) / Cash at August 31, 2024, stood at 1,054 million euros compared to 859 million euros at August 31, 2023, representing a significant increase of +195 million euros in Fiscal 2024. This improvement was primarily driven by an inflow of 379 million euros coming from Recurring free cash flow and to a lesser extent, by the disposal of non-consolidated investments and a positive cash position resulting from the consolidation of Santander Brazil's employee benefit activity. Further, it also reflects the cash impact of the currency fluctuations and the Other operating income and expenses incurred in Fiscal 2024.
Pluxee's strong financial cash position and cash generation is reflected in the BBB+ rating and stable outlook from Standard & Poor's.
A year of continued progress on Pluxee's ESG journey
In Fiscal 2024, along with the completion of the double materiality assessment in anticipation of CSRD obligations and the validation of the 2035 Net-Zero trajectory by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), Pluxee also took an active part in international partnerships and conducted ESG assessments. The Group received a bronze medal from EcoVadis based on the results of its first sustainability performance assessment, and joined the United Nations Global Compact at the Group level as well as in Brazil and United Kingdom.
Pluxee has also continued to deliver on its ESG targets with focus on four areas:
- On business integrity and transparency, the Group made significant progress on its commitment to be a trusted partner with 99.6% of employees being trained in Responsible Business Conduct and acknowledging the Group’s Ethics Charter.
- The Group has also made progress promoting women in leadership positions, reaching 39.9% this year.
- Business volume reimbursed to small and medium enterprise merchants grew by +9% in comparison to last year, reaching 6.2 billion euros. This was made possible thanks to local partnerships and initiatives that helped integrate new and diverse merchants into the Group's network.
- In terms of environment, the Group expects to meet its carbon emission reduction objective within the planned timeframe. In Fiscal 2024, Pluxee decreased its Scope 1 & 2 carbon emissions by -11% compared to Fiscal 2023 and by -50% compared to a Fiscal 2017 baseline. Such reduction resulted from country-led initiatives such as optimizing office space and improving energy efficiency. Pluxee improved sourcing of renewable electricity by about +3,000bps reaching 56% in Fiscal 2024. Indirect carbon emissions relative to Scope 3, however, registered an exceptional increase in comparison to Fiscal 2023, explained by the impact of the Spin-off and rebranding efforts.
The Group is moving forward to identify complementary commitments and targets in preparation for CSRD alignment in Fiscal 2025.
1 Including -6 million euros of Bank overdrafts as of August 31, 2024
Upgraded Fiscal 2025 and 2026 financial objectives
During its Capital Markets Day, the Group set out medium-term financial objectives focusing on delivering sustainable Organic revenue growth, improving Recurring EBITDA margin and maintaining strong Recurring cash conversion.
Based on the strong financial performance delivered in Fiscal 2024, Pluxee has revised its financial objectives upward for Fiscal 2025 and Fiscal 2026:
- Low double-digit Organic revenue growth confirmed for both Fiscal 2025 and 2026, based on a higher Fiscal 2024 revenue basis;
- +75bps Recurring EBITDA margin expansion expected in each of Fiscal 2025 and 2026, leading to delivery of the initial 3-year target of +250bps organic increase one year ahead of plan;
- Above 75% Recurring cash conversion on average over Fiscal 2024 to Fiscal 2026 compared to above 70% previously.
Fiscal 2025 and 2026 financial objectives include:
- a slight organic growth in Float revenue year on year, based on current forward curves, and driven by the expansion of the Float and the optimization of the Group's investments compensating for the expected evolution in interest rates;
- the synergies to be generated through the deployment of the partnership with Santander and the integration of Cobee; and
- the possible regulatory change in Italy with a potential 5% cap on merchant commissions for meal & food benefits in the private sector, noting that meal & food solutions in Italy contribute to less than 3% of the Group’s financial aggregates.
Significant events in Fiscal 2024
Successful spin-off and listing on Euronext Paris
On February 1, 2024, Pluxee successfully completed its spin-off and listing on Euronext Paris with a technical reference price of 26 euros per share. Pluxee's shares were distributed to Sodexo shareholders on a one-for-one basis. Bellon S.A. remains a committed long-term shareholder to Pluxee with approximately 42.8% of the outstanding ordinary shares and nearly 60.0% of the voting rights in the Company.
Refinancing and inaugural bond issue
On March 4, 2024, Pluxee successfully completed the placing of two inaugural bonds for an aggregate amount of 1.1 billion euros, consisting of a 550 million euro bond issue with a 4.5-year maturity and a coupon of 3.50% and a 550 million euro bond issue with a 8.5-year maturity and a coupon of 3.75%. The net proceeds were used to repay the 1.1 billion euro portion drawn down from the bridge loan secured in October 2023 as part of the spin-off project.
Strengthened Executive Committee
The Group has strengthened its Executive Committee and enhanced its geographic governance to accelerate the execution of its strategic plan and the delivery of its objectives.
Alexandre Cotarmanac'h was appointed Chief Product Officer to drive further enhancement of the product offering globally.
Thierry Guihard, Managing Director of Pluxee Brazil, and Malena Gufflet, Managing Director of Pluxee France, joined the Executive Committee to ensure alignment and strategic decision-making in the Group's two largest markets.
Sébastien Godet, previously President of Asia, Middle East, Türkiye and Africa, was named Chief Revenue Growth Officer for Asia, Middle East, Africa and Continental Europe excluding France. Manuel Fernandez Amezaga, previously Managing Director of Romania and Bulgaria, was appointed Chief Revenue Growth Officer for Hispanic Latin America. Viktoria Otero del Val, Group Chief Strategy, Marketing and Sales Officer, was also appointed Chief Revenue Growth Officer for the UK and the U.S. All three Executive Committee members will support country teams in setting, enabling and tracking growth plans, and ensuring best in class execution.
Completion of the strategic partnership with Santander in Brazil
In July 2023, Pluxee signed a strategic partnership with Santander in Brazil, one of the largest private banks in the country, to reinforce Pluxee's market leadership in Brazil. The transaction was completed on June 27, 2024 following approval from the Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE) and the Central Bank of Brazil. This strategic partnership reinforces Pluxee's market positioning in Brazil through (i) a 25-year exclusive distribution agreement of Pluxee's Employee benefit solutions in the Santander network and (ii) the integration of Ben's business volume and expertise (Santander Brazil's Employee Benefits activity). It enables Pluxee to significantly enhance the distribution of its products through the wide national network of Santander agencies and bankers, creating synergies to capture market potential. Through this operation, Banco Santander (Brazil) S.A. now holds 20% of Pluxee Brazil, the Group subsidiary operating the Employee Benefits business in Brazil. The transaction is expected to positively contribute to Organic revenue growth and Recurring EBITDA margin from Fiscal 2025.
Acquisition of Cobee
In June 2024, Pluxee entered into an agreement to acquire 100% of Cobee, an Employee Benefits digital-native player operating in Spain, Portugal and Mexico, and serving more than 1,500 clients and 100,000 employee consumers with a broad multi-benefit offering. On September 26, 2024, the Group announced the successful completion of the acquisition, following the approval by Spanish regulatory authorities (see section Subsequent Events). The acquisition of Cobee strengthens Pluxee's position in the growing and under-penetrated Spanish Employee Benefits market. The combination of Pluxee and Cobee's respective talent pools, capabilities, and technology will create a complete, competitive, and attractive solution in Spain, Portugal, and Mexico, broadening the Group's existing benefit offering and enhancing its tech capabilities at global scale. The transaction is expected to be neutral in terms of Pluxee's Recurring EBITDA and Recurring free cash flow in Fiscal 2025 and accretive to Recurring EBITDA margin and Net income from Fiscal 2026.
Subsequent Events
Completion of Cobee acquisition
On September 25, 2024, the Group completed the 100% acquisition of Cobee after receiving clearance from the Spanish regulatory authorities. The majority of the transaction price was paid on the closing date, while the agreement also provides for two earn-outs, subject to the achievement of defined milestones that have been designed to align all stakeholders' interests and representing, if achieved, less than 50% of the fixed base price paid on the closing date. The acquisition will be fully funded from existing cash resources with limited impact on Group leverage.
Extension of the revolving credit facility
On October 2, 2024, the Group obtained bank approval to extend the original maturity of the 650 million euro revolving credit facility by an additional year, for a new maturity date of October 2029.
Conference call for investors and analysts
Pluxee will hold a conference call in English on October 31, 2024, at 8:30 a.m. CET to comment on its Fiscal 2024 Results.
To connect:
- from France: +33 1 70 91 87 04; or
- from the UK: +44 121 281 8004; or
- from the U.S.: +1 718 705 8796,
followed by the access code 07 26 76.
The live audio webcast will be accessible on www.pluxeegroup.com
The press release, presentation and webcast are available on the Group website www.pluxeegroup.com in the section "Investors – Financial results and publications".
Annual Report and Annual General Meeting
Pluxee filed its Fiscal 2024 Annual Report which includes the consolidated and company financial statements, the auditor's report and the responsibility statement of the Board of Directors for this report with the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (Autoriteit Financiële Markten, “AFM”) and the French Autorité des Marchés Financiers.
The Annual Report is available on the Group website www.pluxeegroup.com in the "Investors – Financial results and publications" section.
Pluxee will hold its Annual General Meeting in Amsterdam-Schiphol, the Netherlands on December 18, 2024. The convening notice, agenda and all related documents will be available at https://www.pluxeegroup.com/shareholder-meeting by November 6, 2024.
Financial calendar
Fiscal 2024 Financial calendar
| Fiscal 2024 Annual Shareholders' Meeting | December 18, 2024 |
Fiscal 2025 Financial calendar
| First Quarter Fiscal 2025 Revenues | January 8, 2025 |
| First Half Fiscal 2025 Results | April 17, 2025 |
| Third Quarter Fiscal 2025 Revenues | July 3, 2025 |
| Annual Fiscal 2025 Results | October 30, 2025 |
| Fiscal 2025 Annual Shareholders' Meeting | December 17, 2025 |
These dates are indicative and may be subject to change without notice.
Regular updates are available in the calendar on our website www.pluxeegroup.com
About Pluxee
Pluxee is a global player in employee benefits and engagement that operates in 291 countries. Pluxee helps companies attract, engage, and retain talent thanks to a broad range of solutions across Meal & Food, Wellbeing, Lifestyle, Reward & Recognition, and Public Benefits. Powered by leading technology and more than 5,000 engaged team members, Pluxee acts as a trusted partner within a highly interconnected B2B2C ecosystem made up of more than 500,000 clients, 37 million+ consumers and 1.7 million+ merchants. Conducting business for more than 45 years, Pluxee is committed to creating a positive impact on local communities, supporting well being at work for employees and protecting the planet. For more information: www.pluxeegroup.com.
Contacts
| Media Cecilia de Pierrebourg +33 6 03 30 46 98 cecilia.depierrebourg@pluxeegroup.com | Analysts and Investors Pauline Bireaud +33 6 22 58 83 51 pauline.bireaud@pluxeegroup.com |
1 As part of its portfolio rationalization efforts, Pluxee exited two non-core countries in Fiscal 2024.
Appendices
Total Revenues
Breakdown of Total Revenues by nature
| Fiscal Q1 | Fiscal Q2 | Fiscal Q3 | Fiscal Q4 | Fiscal year | ||||||
| (in million euros) | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Operating revenue | 231 | 208 | 287 | 240 | 257 | 235 | 281 | 270 | 1,055 | 953 |
| Organic growth (%) | 14.5% | 19.9% | 11.4% | 8.1% | 13.3% | |||||
| Total Growth (%) | 11.3% | 19.6% | 9.1% | 3.8% | 10.7% | |||||
| Float revenue | 35 | 18 | 40 | 22 | 40 | 26 | 40 | 33 | 155 | 99 |
| Organic growth (%) | 109.9% | 87.6% | 75.9% | 30.3% | 69.0% | |||||
| Total Growth (%) | 95.1% | 78.0% | 56.7% | 20.6% | 56.4% | |||||
| Total Revenues | 266 | 225 | 327 | 262 | 297 | 261 | 320 | 303 | 1,210 | 1,052 |
| Organic growth (%) | 22.0% | 25.7% | 17.9% | 10.6% | 18.6% | |||||
| Total Growth (%) | 17.9% | 24.6% | 13.8% | 5.7% | 15.0% | |||||
Breakdown of Total Revenues by line of service
| Fiscal Q1 | Fiscal Q2 | Fiscal Q3 | Fiscal Q4 | Fiscal year | ||||||
| (in million euros) | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Employee Benefits | 224 | 183 | 274 | 217 | 257 | 219 | 278 | 255 | 1,033 | 873 |
| Organic growth (%) | 27.1% | 27.8% | 22.7% | 14.8% | 22.5% | |||||
| Total Growth (%) | 22.5% | 26.2% | 17.6% | 9.3% | 18.3% | |||||
| Other products & services | 42 | 42 | 53 | 46 | 40 | 42 | 42 | 48 | 176 | 179 |
| Organic growth (%) | 0.2% | 15.4% | -7.0% | -12.4% | -1.0% | |||||
| Total Growth (%) | -2.0% | 16.9% | -6.2% | -13.4% | -1.2% | |||||
| Total Revenues | 266 | 225 | 327 | 262 | 297 | 261 | 320 | 303 | 1,210 | 1,052 |
| Organic growth (%) | 22.0% | 25.7% | 17.9% | 10.6% | 18.6% | |||||
| Total Growth (%) | 17.9% | 24.6% | 13.8% | 5.7% | 15.0% | |||||
Breakdown of Total Revenues by region
| Fiscal Q1 | Fiscal Q2 | Fiscal Q3 | Fiscal Q4 | Fiscal year | ||||||
| (in million euros) | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Continental Europe | 108 | 95 | 155 | 126 | 123 | 114 | 147 | 131 | 534 | 466 |
| Organic growth (%) | 13.5% | 23.3% | 8.1% | 12.1% | 14.5% | |||||
| Total Growth (%) | 13.6% | 23.3% | 7.8% | 12.1% | 14.4% | |||||
| Latin America | 110 | 85 | 117 | 89 | 116 | 98 | 117 | 121 | 460 | 394 |
| Organic growth (%) | 28.7% | 26.0% | 16.1% | 4.2% | 17.3% | |||||
| Total Growth (%) | 29.0% | 31.4% | 17.8% | -3.4% | 16.8% | |||||
| Rest of the world | 48 | 45 | 54 | 47 | 58 | 48 | 57 | 51 | 216 | 192 |
| Organic growth (%) | 27.8% | 31.4% | 42.4% | 21.8% | 31.0% | |||||
| Total Growth (%) | 5.8% | 15.0% | 19.6% | 10.8% | 12.9% | |||||
| Total Revenues | 266 | 225 | 327 | 262 | 297 | 261 | 320 | 303 | 1,210 | 1,052 |
| Organic growth (%) | 22.0% | 25.7% | 17.9% | 10.6% | 18.6% | |||||
| Total Growth (%) | 17.9% | 24.6% | 13.8% | 5.7% | 15.0% | |||||
Operating revenue
Breakdown of Operating revenue by line of service
| Fiscal Q1 | Fiscal Q2 | Fiscal Q3 | Fiscal Q4 | Fiscal year | ||||||
| (in million euros) | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Employee Benefits | 193 | 167 | 238 | 197 | 220 | 196 | 242 | 225 | 892 | 786 |
| Organic growth (%) | 19.2% | 21.6% | 15.0% | 12.1% | 16.7% | |||||
| Total Growth (%) | 15.5% | 20.9% | 11.9% | 7.2% | 13.6% | |||||
| Other products and services | 38 | 41 | 49 | 43 | 37 | 39 | 39 | 45 | 163 | 167 |
| Organic growth (%) | -4.8% | 12.6% | -6.5% | -12.4% | -2.7% | |||||
| Total Growth (%) | -6.3% | 13.9% | -5.2% | -13.1% | -2.7% | |||||
| Operating revenue | 231 | 208 | 287 | 240 | 257 | 235 | 281 | 270 | 1,055 | 953 |
| Organic growth (%) | 14.5% | 19.9% | 11.4% | 8.1% | 13.3% | |||||
| Total Growth (%) | 11.3% | 19.6% | 9.1% | 3.8% | 10.7% | |||||
Breakdown of Operating revenue by region
| Fiscal Q1 | Fiscal Q2 | Fiscal Q3 | Fiscal Q4 | Fiscal year | ||||||
| (in million euros) | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Continental Europe | 94 | 88 | 139 | 116 | 108 | 102 | 131 | 117 | 472 | 423 |
| Organic growth (%) | 6.5% | 19.5% | 5.3% | 12.7% | 11.5% | |||||
| Total Growth (%) | 6.6% | 19.5% | 5.0% | 12.7% | 11.4% | |||||
| Latin America | 97 | 79 | 103 | 82 | 102 | 90 | 103 | 109 | 405 | 360 |
| Organic growth (%) | 22.6% | 20.5% | 11.4% | 2.5% | 13.2% | |||||
| Total Growth (%) | 22.9% | 25.6% | 13.1% | -5.5% | 12.5% | |||||
| Rest of the world | 40 | 41 | 45 | 42 | 47 | 42 | 46 | 45 | 178 | 170 |
| Organic growth (%) | 16.7% | 20.0% | 25.3% | 10.0% | 18.0% | |||||
| Total Growth (%) | -1.0% | 8.0% | 10.4% | 3.3% | 5.2% | |||||
| Operating revenue | 231 | 208 | 287 | 240 | 257 | 235 | 281 | 270 | 1,055 | 953 |
| Organic growth (%) | 14.5% | 19.9% | 11.4% | 8.1% | 13.3% | |||||
| Total Growth (%) | 11.3% | 19.6% | 9.1% | 3.8% | 10.7% | |||||
Summarized Balance Sheet
| (in million euros) | August 31, 2024 | August 31, 2023 | (in million euros) | August 31, 2024 | August 31, 2023 | |
| Trade receivables related to the float | 1,068 | 1,075 | Value in circulation and related payables | 3,728 | 3,543 | |
| Restricted cash related to the float | 973 | 936 | Short-term borrowings⁽¹⁾ | 33 | 1,254 | |
| Current financial assets | 814 | 542 | Long-term borrowings⁽¹⁾ | 1,143 | 49 | |
| Cash and cash equivalents | 1,421 | 1,625 | Bank overdrafts | 6 | 5 | |
| Other assets | 1,671 | 1,495 | Other liabilities | 1,037 | 822 | |
| Total Assets | 5,947 | 5,673 | Total Shareholders' Equity and Liabilities | 5,947 | 5,673 |
(1) Including lease liabilities.
Float amounting to 2,753 million euros as of August 31, 2024 made of 3,728 million of Value in circulation and related payables minus 1,068 million euros of Trade receivables related to the Float restated of 93 million euros from Advances from clients.
Summary of Cash Flow generation
| (in million euros) | Fiscal 2024 | Fiscal 2023 |
| Recurring EBITDA | 430 | 363 |
| Capital expenditures | (116) | (116) |
| Change in working capital (excluding restricted cash variation)⁽²⁾ | 168 | 283 |
| Income tax paid | (100) | (96) |
| Exclusion of antitrust one-off penalty payment | 0 | 45 |
| Other⁽¹⁾ | (4) | 2 |
| Recurring free cash flow⁽²⁾ | 379 | 480 |
| Recurring cash conversion rate | 88% | 132% |
(1) Partly including repayments of Lease Liabilities, cancellation of non-cash charges, and net interests received. Excluding impact from other income and expenses received / paid.
(2) Change in working capital in Fiscal 2023 including a positive impact from the evolution in regulation in Brazil for 191 million euros. Excluding this one-off, Change in working capital would have amounted to 92 million euros and Recurring free cash flow to 289 million euros in Fiscal 2023.
Alternative performance measure (APM) definitions
| Adjusted basic / diluted earnings per share | Adjusted basic or diluted earnings per share are calculated by dividing Adjusted net profit (attributable to the equity holders of the parent) by respectively basic weighted average number of shares or diluted weighted average number of shares. |
| Adjusted net profit | Adjusted net profit serves as the basis for calculating dividend payout ratio. Adjusted net profit consists of Net profit (attributable to Group equity holders) restated for the impact of items recognized in Other operating income and expenses, net of income tax and non-controlling interest. |
| Float-related cash | Float-related cash corresponds to the cash collected from clients in relation to the value loaded on cards or the issuance of digital solutions or paper vouchers, but not yet reimbursed to merchants (Float). Float is calculated as Value in circulation and related payables minus Net trade receivables related to the float (corresponding to Trade Receivables related to the float restated from Advances from clients). |
| Net Financial (Debt) / Cash | Net Financial (Debt) / Cash evaluates the Group's liquidity, capital structure and financial leverage. Net Financial (Debt) / Cash consists of gross borrowings and lease liabilities, minus the Cash and cash equivalents (net of overdraft) and Current financial assets. |
| Non-Float Related Cash | Non-Float related Cash is calculated as Cash, Cash equivalents and Current financial assets excluding the cash collected from clients in relation to business volumes issued. |
| Organic revenue growth | Organic revenue growth is calculated as growth in the current period, calculated using the exchange rate for the prior fiscal period, and adjusted for the impact in the comparable prior period to include or remove the effect of acquisitions and/or divestitures that have occurred subsequent to that period. |
| Recurring cash conversion rate | The Recurring cash conversion rate measures the ability of the Group to convert its Recurring EBITDA into Cash. Recurring cash conversion rate consists of the ratio of Recurring free cash flow to Recurring EBITDA. |
| Recurring EBITDA | Recurring EBITDA is used to assess the performance of reported operating segments. Recurring EBITDA is calculated by deducting the impact of amortization, depreciation and impairment of intangible assets, property, plant and equipment, and right-of-use assets relating to leases (as reported in the line Depreciation, amortization and impairment of the consolidated income statement) from the Recurring operating profit (Recurring EBIT) presented in the consolidated income statement. |
| Recurring EBITDA margin | Recurring EBITDA margin consists of the ratio of Recurring EBITDA to Total Revenues. |
| Recurring free cash flow | The Recurring free cash flow measures the net cash generated from operations that is available for strategic investments (net of divestments), for financial debt repayment, and for payments of dividends to shareholders. Recurring free cash flow is calculated as Net cash provided by operating activities as shown in the consolidated cash flow statement minus (i) Acquisitions of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets, (ii) Repayments of Lease liabilities and (iii) Restatement of Other operating income and expenses on Net cash from operating activities. |
| Recurring Liquidity Generated by Operations (LGO) | Recurring Liquidity Generated by Operations provides information to measure the net cash generated from operations regardless of the differences in regulations governing the issuance of digitally delivered services, cards and paper vouchers. Recurring Liquidity Generated by Operations is calculated as Recurring Free Cash Flow plus the Change in restricted cash related to the Float. |
| Recurring operating profit (Recurring EBIT) | Recurring operating profit (Recurring EBIT) corresponds to Operating profit (EBIT) before Other operating income and expenses. |
Forward-looking statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the Group's intentions, current beliefs, expectations and assumptions, including, without limitation, assumptions regarding the Group's future business strategies and the environment in which the Group operates, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors beyond the Group's control, which may cause the Group's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include those discussed in Pluxee's Fiscal 2024 Annual Report, filed on October 31, 2024 with the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (Autoriteit Financiële Markten, “AFM”) and the French Autorité des Marchés Financiers, and available in the 'Investors – Financial Results and Publications' section of the Group website: www.pluxeegroup.com. Accordingly, readers of this press release are cautioned on relying on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and Pluxee Group expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements included in this press release to reflect any change in expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which these forward-looking statements are based.
Disclaimer
This press release does not contain or constitute an offer of securities for sale or an invitation or inducement to invest in securities in France, the United States, or any other jurisdiction.
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