Direct Economic Value Generated and Distributed
In 2016, we began the process of developing our culture to focus on sustainable profitability growth through our strategic priorities. We turned a corner in the last quarter of 2016, achieving overall EBITDA growth while generating strong cash flow and reducing debt levels. Our positive actions were reflected in our stock price, which reached a new record high for the year of $28.87 on December 29, 2016, appreciating 67 percent during the year.
These results are encouraging given that 2016 saw a number of significant challenges for the global chemical industry and value chain, including, but not limited to:
- Strengthening of the U.S. Dollar, effectively lowering the value of sales overseas; and
- The continuation of depressed oil prices, suppressing the demand for chemicals in our upstream oil and gas market.
Our global financial performance is of significant importance to our internal and external stakeholders alike where our sustainable growth allows us to provide quality and reliable partnerships and services to customers and suppliers. Our sustainable growth will be attained through our organizational strategy and economic framework.
The tables below provide a summary snapshot of Univar’s key financial metrics for the 2016 fiscal year.
