BIC - 2018 Registration document

RISKS

Extra financial risks [NFPS]

RISKS RELATED TO THE ENVIRONMENT

Risk Identification

Risk Mitigation

The nature of our manufacturing operations, primarily molding and the assembly of plastics products and printing of products, has a local environmental impact. However, this risk remains relatively low compared to other manufacturing sectors.

The Sustainable Development Program, based on the HSE policy, requires all BIC plants to measure, assess and reduce any potential significant environmental impacts. The BIC Group has health, safety and environmental management systems in each of its plants (excluding Cello Pens) to ensure the integration of measures to prevent pollution and other risks in its everyday operations, as well as the ongoing improvement of its installations, equipment and procedures for the purpose of risks prevention. Detailed information on the management systems and specific measures for controlling the environmental consequences of the Group’s operations can be found in Chapter 3, section 3.3.1.1 Management systems page 86 and § 3.3.1.5 Reducing other forms of environmental impact page 93. A breakdown of the plants’ water and energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and waste production is given in Chapter 3, section 3.3. Environmental responsibility concerning our operations, along with the actions undertaken by the BIC Group and its sites to control and reduce their environmental impact.

RISKS RELATED TO REPUTATION AND BRAND

Risk Identification

Risk Mitigation

In the context of increasing environmental awareness, the brand image could be associated with disposable products, leading to customer disaffection for BIC ® products.

However, through its strong Sustainable Development Program, a range of products with an ecolabel, and communication on environmental benefits, the BIC Group believes it is taking the necessary steps to cover this risk. The Sustainable Development Strategy is presented in Chapter 3, Our environmental, social and societal responsability.

RISKS RELATED TO EXPERIENCED TEAM MEMBERS AND SKILLS

Risk Identification

Risk Mitigation

The BIC Group has specific skills thanks to its experienced team members especially in manufacturing processes and business practices. The loss of experienced team members could slow down the implementation of Group development plans. It could also result in the inability to implement the BIC Group’s strategy.

The BIC Group therefore focuses on identifying, developing and managing experienced team members. Succession plans based on a detailed analysis of Group’s resources have been prepared and implemented. Additionally, team members training is given specific attention through dedicated programs (see Chapter 3, section 3.4 Our social responsibility to our employees, page 95).

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• BIC GROUP - 2018 REGISTRATION DOCUMENT •