WJX Wajax Corporation

TSX Symbol:  WJX

TORONTO, March 7, 2022 /CNW/ - Wajax Corporation ("Wajax" or the "Corporation") today announced its 2021 fourth quarter and annual results.

In commenting on the Corporation's results, Iggy Domagalski, President and Chief Executive Officer, stated "In 2021, Wajax delivered record revenue of $1.6 billion, representing a 15% increase over the prior year." He continued, "Despite the unpredictable COVID-19 pandemic and related supply chain issues, we generated cash flows from operating activities of $190 million during the year, and we saw our leverage ratio drop to 1.29 times at December 31, 2021, its lowest level in a decade. Wajax enters 2022 with a record start-of-year backlog of $419 million."⁽²⁾

Fourth Quarter Highlights

• Revenue in the fourth quarter of 2021 increased $21.8 million, or 5.7%, to $402.8 million, from $381.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2020. Regionally:
  
  
• • Revenue in western Canada of $169.7 million increased 11.9% from the prior year due primarily to engineered repair services ("ERS") and industrial parts strength related to the acquisition of Calgary, Alberta-based Tundra Process Solutions Ltd. ("Tundra") earlier in the year, offset partially by lower mining equipment sales.
  • Revenue in central Canada of $75.9 million decreased 6.7% from the prior year mainly due to lower construction and forestry equipment revenue.
  • Revenue in eastern Canada of $157.2 million increased 6.2% from the prior year due to moderately higher revenue in most categories, offset partially by lower construction and forestry equipment revenue.
    
    
• During the fourth quarter, the Corporation did not recognize any reimbursement of compensation expense from the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy ("CEWS") program. During the same quarter last year, the Corporation qualified for the CEWS and recognized $5.7 million as a reimbursement of compensation expense with $4.4 million and $1.3 million, respectively, allocated to cost of sales and selling and administrative expenses in proportion to personnel costs recorded in those areas.
  
  
• Gross profit margin of 20.3% in the fourth quarter of 2021 increased 2.2% compared to gross profit margin of 18.1% in 2020. Excluding the CEWS recoveries in the fourth quarter of last year of $4.4 million, gross profit margin in the fourth quarter of 2021 increased 3.3% compared to the gross profit margin of 17.0% in 2020. The increase in margin was driven primarily by higher equipment and parts margins, and a higher proportion of industrial parts and ERS sales compared to equipment sales.
  
  
• Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue increased to 16.5% in the fourth quarter of 2021 from 13.2% in the fourth quarter of 2020. Excluding the CEWS recoveries in the fourth quarter of last year of $1.3 million, selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue increased from 13.5% in the fourth quarter last year to 16.5% in the fourth quarter of 2021. Selling and administrative expenses in the fourth quarter of 2021 increased $16.2 million compared to the fourth quarter of 2020 due mainly to additional selling and administrative expenses related to Tundra of $5.9 million, higher incentive compensation of $4.0 million due primarily to improved financial results in 2021, a prior year $1.3 million recovery of personnel expenses from the CEWS program without a similar recovery in the current year, professional fees related to environmental remediation of $1.0 million in the quarter, and amortization expense of $0.7 million in the quarter relating to intangible assets recognized for the Tundra acquisition.
  
  
• EBIT decreased $3.5 million, or 18.5%, to $15.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2021 versus $18.8 million in 2020.⁽²⁾ The year-over-year decrease in EBIT is primarily attributable to higher selling and administrative expenses, partially offset by higher volumes and margins, and a higher proportion of industrial parts and ERS sales compared to equipment sales.⁽²⁾
  
  
• The Corporation generated net earnings of $8.0 million, or $0.37 per share, in the fourth quarter of 2021 versus $10.7 million, or $0.53 per share, in 2020. The Corporation generated adjusted net earnings of $7.0 million, or $0.33 per share, in the fourth quarter of 2021 versus $9.6 million, or $0.48 per share, in 2020.⁽²⁾
  
  
• Adjusted EBITDA margin decreased to 7.1% in the fourth quarter of 2021 from 8.1% in 2020.⁽²⁾ Excluding the CEWS recoveries in the fourth quarter of last year of $5.7 million, adjusted EBITDA margin increased to 7.1% in the fourth quarter of 2021 from 6.6% in 2020.⁽²⁾
  
  
• The Corporation's backlog at December 31, 2021 of $419.1 million increased $47.5 million, or 12.8%, compared to September 30, 2021 due primarily to higher construction and forestry orders and higher industrial parts orders.⁽²⁾
  
  
• Inventory of $388.7 million at December 31, 2021 increased $17.4 million from September 30, 2021 due largely to the previously announced purchase by the Corporation of all construction-class excavator consignment inventory on hand. Additional details are provided below, and in the Corporation's press release dated November 1, 2021. Consignment inventory, comprised primarily of construction excavators, declined by $27.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2021 to nil as at December 31, 2021.
  
  
• Working capital of $313.5 million at December 31, 2021 decreased $16.9 million from September 30, 2021, due primarily to higher accounts payable and accrued liabilities, lower contract assets, and higher contract liabilities, offset partially by higher inventory.⁽²⁾ Trailing four-quarter average working capital as a percentage of the trailing 12-month sales was 20.5%, a decrease of 1.2% from September 30, 2021, due to the combination of the lower four-quarter average working capital and the higher trailing 12-month sales.⁽²⁾
  
  
• Cash flows generated from operating activities amounted to $36.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2021, compared to cash flows generated from operating activities of $48.1 million in the same quarter of the previous year. The decrease in cash generated of $12.0 million was mainly attributable to a decrease in cash generated from changes in non-cash operating working capital of $11.1 million. The decrease in cash generated from changes in non-cash operating working capital of $11.1 million was driven primarily by a decrease in cash generated from changes in inventory of $52.3 million, offset partially by a decrease in cash used in changes in accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $18.0 million, an increase in cash generated from changes in contract liabilities of $5.3 million, a decrease in cash used in changes in provisions of $4.7 million, and an increase in cash generated from changes in contract assets of $8.9 million.
  
  
• The Corporation's leverage ratio decreased to 1.29 times at December 31, 2021, compared to 1.39 times at September 30, 2021.⁽²⁾ The decrease in the leverage ratio was due to the lower debt level in the current period, offset partially by a lower trailing 12-month pro-forma adjusted EBITDA.⁽²⁾ The Corporation's senior secured leverage ratio was 0.82 times at December 31, 2021, compared to 0.95 times at September 30, 2021.⁽²⁾
  
  
• On October 1, 2021, the Corporation amended its bank credit facility to extend the maturity date for the combined $400.0 million non-revolving and revolving term facilities from October 1, 2024 to October 1, 2026, and to reduce the pricing of the $50.0 million non-revolving acquisition term facility to match the pricing on the main credit facility.
  
  
• The consignment program of Hitachi Construction Machinery's joint venture partner, relating to construction-class excavators, ended October 31, 2021. Effective November 1, 2021, the Corporation began assuming ownership of new stock received. Inventory on hand as at October 31, 2021 remained subject to the prior consignment terms, which included the opportunity for the Corporation to purchase the inventory prior to sale to a customer. Due to certain preferential terms offered by the supplier, and as previously announced, the Corporation purchased all consignment inventory on hand during the fourth quarter of 2021. The Corporation also purchased all inventory received from the supplier during the period from January 1, 2022 to February 28, 2022. On March 1, 2022, new payment terms from the manufacturer took effect. The Corporation's existing credit facilities are expected to continue to be sufficient to support total normal course working capital requirements, including the effect of this change.
  
  
• As previously announced, President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Foote retired on December 31, 2021. Ignacy (Iggy) Domagalski, formerly the Chief Executive Officer of Tundra, which was acquired by Wajax effective January 22, 2021, succeeded Mr. Foote as President and Chief Executive Officer of Wajax on January 1, 2022. For more information, please see the Corporation's press release dated October 5, 2021.
  
• Subsequent to year-end, on January 31, 2022, the Corporation announced the acquisition of the net operating assets of Thunder Bay, Ontario-based Process Flow Systems Ltd. ("Process Flow"). The assets of Process Flow were acquired in exchange for cash consideration of approximately $4.0 million, plus a three-year performance-based earnout of up to $0.7 million in the aggregate, payable in cash. Process Flow's trailing twelve-month revenue from time of acquisition was $6.5 million.

On March 7, 2022, the Corporation declared a dividend of $0.25 per share for the first quarter of 2022 payable on April 5, 2022 to shareholders of record on March 15, 2022.

Commenting further on the Corporation's results, President and Chief Executive Officer Iggy Domagalski stated, "During our 164^th year in business, Wajax delivered record revenue and strong earnings, rebounding from the challenges we faced in 2020 and exceeding our pre-COVID performance in 2019. Combine that with our strengthened balance sheet and expanded product and service offerings, and Wajax is ideally positioned to continue to grow in 2022 and beyond."

Regarding Wajax's outlook for 2022, Mr. Domagalski stated, "As we move further into 2022, we are seeing sound fundamentals in many of our key markets, bolstered by improving commodity prices and increased capital spending. This positive view of the market is counterbalanced by the unpredictable COVID-19 pandemic and related supply chain issues, which we expect will be a factor throughout the year ahead, particularly in our heavy equipment business. We continue to manage these challenges through frequent dialogue with key suppliers and customers, pre-ordering new equipment, and utilizing repairs and rebuilds to extend the service life of equipment."

Mr. Domagalski continued, "Despite these ongoing challenges, our improved balance sheet and record start-of-year backlog of $419 million shows momentum in the business.⁽²⁾ To maintain this momentum and increase shareholder value, we plan to continue our focus on the following priorities: investing in our people and their safety, delivering exceptional customer experiences, organically growing our business, building our acquisition pipeline, supporting our closer relationship with Hitachi, prudently managing our balance sheet, deploying our ERP and remote diagnostic systems, and building sustainability into our business."

Mr. Domagalski stated, "In closing, I want to thank our retiring CEO Mark Foote for a decade of incredible leadership at Wajax, and for his mentorship following Wajax's acquisition of Tundra. Looking ahead, we believe our strong balance sheet, ability to generate cash flow, and abundant growth opportunities will allow the business to grow meaningfully over the long term. I look forward to working with our entire board and management team as we work to grow Wajax together. I am proud to be leading such a strong and dedicated team and am truly excited by what the future holds for our organization."

Wajax Corporation

Founded in 1858, Wajax (TSX: WJX) is one of Canada's longest-standing and most diversified industrial products and services providers. The Corporation operates an integrated distribution system providing sales, parts and services to a broad range of customers in diverse sectors of the Canadian economy, including: construction, forestry, mining, industrial and commercial, oil sands, transportation, metal processing, government and utilities, and oil and gas.

The Corporation's goal is to be Canada's leading industrial products and services provider, distinguished through its three core capabilities: sales force excellence, the breadth and efficiency of repair and maintenance operations, and the ability to work closely with existing and new vendor partners to constantly expand its product offering to customers. The Corporation believes that achieving excellence in these three areas will position it to create value for its customers, employees, vendors and shareholders.

Wajax will webcast its Fourth Quarter Financial Results Conference Call. You are invited to listen to the live webcast on Tuesday, March 8, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. ET. To access the webcast, please visit our website wajax.com, under "Investor Relations", "Events and Presentations", "Q4 and Full Year 2021 Financial Results" and click on the "Webcast" link.

Notes:

Non-GAAP and Additional GAAP Measures

The press release contains certain non-GAAP and additional GAAP measures that do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP. Therefore, these financial measures may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Investors are cautioned that these measures should not be construed as an alternative to net earnings or to cash flow from operating, investing, and financing activities determined in accordance with GAAP as indicators of the Corporation's performance.

Non-GAAP financial measures are identified and defined below:

Reconciliation of the Corporation's net earnings to adjusted net earnings and adjusted basic and diluted earnings per share is as follows:

Reconciliation of the Corporation's net earnings to EBT, EBIT, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Pro-forma adjusted EBITDA is as follows:

Calculation of the Corporation's funded net debt, debt, leverage ratio and senior secured leverage ratio is as follows:

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information, as defined in applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). These forward-looking statements relate to future events or the Corporation's future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "anticipates", "intends", "predicts", "expects", "is expected", "scheduled", "believes", "estimates", "projects" or "forecasts", or variations of, or the negatives of, such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "should", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors beyond the Corporation's ability to predict or control which may cause actual results, performance and achievements to differ materially from those anticipated or implied in such forward-looking statements. To the extent any forward-looking information in this news release constitutes future-oriented financial information or financial outlook within the meaning of applicable securities law, such information is being provided to demonstrate the potential of the Corporation and readers are cautioned that this information may not be appropriate for any other purpose. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking statement will materialize. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this news release are made as of the date of this news release, reflect management's current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management. Although management believes that the expectations represented in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, there is no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Specifically, this news release includes forward looking statements regarding, among other things, our continued expectation that our existing credit facilities will be sufficient to support total normal course working capital requirements, including new payment terms for construction-class excavators which took effect March 1, 2022; our belief that our rebound from the challenges we faced in 2020, combined with our strengthened balance sheet and expanded product and service offerings, positions us ideally to grow in 2022 and beyond; our belief that, as we move further into 2022, we are seeing sound fundamentals in many of our key markets, bolstered by improving commodity prices and increased capital spending, and that this positive view of the market will be counterbalanced by the unpredictable COVID-19 pandemic and related supply chain issues; our expectation that supply chain issues will be a factor throughout 2022, particularly in our heavy equipment business, and our plans to manage these challenges through frequent dialogue with key suppliers and customers, pre-ordering new equipment, and utilizing repairs and rebuilds to extend the service life of equipment; our belief that our improved balance sheet and record start-of-year backlog shows momentum in our business; our plans to maintain such momentum and increase shareholder value by focusing on the following priorities: investing in our people and their safety, delivering exceptional customer experiences, organically growing our business, building our acquisition pipeline, supporting our closer relationship with Hitachi, prudently managing our balance sheet, deploying our ERP and remote diagnostic systems, and building sustainability into our business; our belief that our strong balance sheet, ability to generate cash flow and abundant growth opportunities will allow our business to grow meaningfully over the long-term; our goal of becoming Canada's leading industrial products and services provider, distinguished through our core capabilities; our belief that achieving excellence in our areas of core capability will position Wajax to create value for its customers, employees, vendors and shareholders; and our target leverage ratio range of 1.5 – 2.0 times. These statements are based on a number of assumptions which may prove to be incorrect, including, but not limited to, our ability to successfully manage our business through the COVID-19 pandemic and actions taken by governments, public authorities, suppliers and customers in response to the novel coronavirus and its variants; the ability of Hitachi and Wajax to develop and execute successful sales, marketing and other plans related to the expanded direct distribution relationship announced on August 19, 2021; general business and economic conditions; the supply and demand for, and the level and volatility of prices for, oil, natural gas and other commodities; financial market conditions, including interest rates; our ability to execute our updated Strategic Plan, including our ability to develop our core capabilities, execute on our organic growth priorities, complete and effectively integrate acquisitions, such as Tundra, and to successfully implement new information technology platforms, systems and software, such as our new ERP system; the future financial performance of the Corporation; our costs; market competition; our ability to attract and retain skilled staff; our ability to procure quality products and inventory; and our ongoing relations with suppliers, employees and customers. The foregoing list of assumptions is not exhaustive. Factors that may cause actual results to vary materially include, but are not limited to, the geographic spread and ultimate impact of the COVID-19 virus and its variants, and the duration of the coronavirus pandemic; the duration and severity of travel, business and other restrictions imposed by governments and public authorities in response to COVID-19, as well as other measures that may be taken by such authorities; actions taken by our suppliers and customers in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, including slowing, reducing or halting operations; the inability of Hitachi and Wajax to develop and execute successful sales, marketing and other plans related to their expanded direct distribution relationship; a continued or prolonged deterioration in general business and economic conditions (including as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic); volatility in the supply and demand for, and the level of prices for, oil, natural gas and other commodities; a continued or prolonged decrease in the price of oil or natural gas; fluctuations in financial market conditions, including interest rates; the level of demand for, and prices of, the products and services we offer; levels of customer confidence and spending; market acceptance of the products we offer; termination of distribution or original equipment manufacturer agreements; unanticipated operational difficulties (including failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate in accordance with specifications or expectations, cost escalation, our inability to reduce costs in response to slow-downs in market activity, unavailability of quality products or inventory, supply disruptions (including disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic), job action and unanticipated events related to health, safety and environmental matters); our ability to attract and retain skilled staff and our ability to maintain our relationships with suppliers, employees and customers. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Further information concerning the risks and uncertainties associated with these forward-looking statements and the Corporation's business may be found in our Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2021 (the "AIF"), in our annual MD&A for financial risks, and in our most recent quarterly MD&A, all of which have been filed on SEDAR. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The Corporation does not undertake any obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise unless so required by applicable securities laws.

Readers are cautioned that the risks described in the AIF, and in our annual and quarterly MD&A, are not the only risks that could impact the Corporation. We cannot accurately predict the full impact that COVID-19 will have on our business, results of operations, financial condition or the demand for our products and services due to the uncertainties related to the spread of the virus and its variants. Risks and uncertainties not currently known to the Corporation, or currently deemed to be immaterial, may have a material effect on the Corporation's business, financial condition or results of operations.

Additional information, including Wajax's Annual Report, is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. 

Wajax Corporation
Management's Discussion and Analysis – FY 2021

The following management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A") discusses the consolidated financial condition and results of operations of Wajax Corporation ("Wajax" or the "Corporation") for the year ended December 31, 2021. This MD&A should be read in conjunction with the information contained in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes for the year ended December 31, 2021. Information contained in this MD&A is based on information available to management as of March 7, 2022.

Management is responsible for the information disclosed in this MD&A and the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes, and has in place appropriate information systems, procedures and controls to ensure that information used internally by management and disclosed externally is materially complete and reliable. Wajax's Board of Directors has approved this MD&A and the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. In addition, Wajax's Audit Committee, on behalf of the Board of Directors, provides an oversight role with respect to all public financial disclosures made by Wajax and has reviewed this MD&A and the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes.

Unless otherwise indicated, all financial information within this MD&A is in millions of Canadian dollars, except ratio calculations, share, share rights and per share data. Additional information, including Wajax's Annual Report and Annual Information Form, are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Wajax Corporation Overview

Founded in 1858, Wajax (TSX: WJX) is one of Canada's longest-standing and most diversified industrial products and services providers. The Corporation operates an integrated distribution system, providing sales, parts and services to a broad range of customers in diverse sectors of the Canadian economy, including: construction, forestry, mining, industrial and commercial, oil sands, transportation, metal processing, government and utilities, and oil and gas.

Strategic Direction and Outlook

The goal of the One Wajax strategy is to provide customers with access to the Corporation's full range of products and services while delivering a consistently excellent level of customer service. Wajax is focused on delivering a strong experience for its customers and employees through the execution of clear plans in five key areas:

• Investing in the Wajax team and putting people first - The safety, well-being and engagement of approximately 2,800 employees is the foundation of the Corporation. To help its team members thrive, Wajax is taking a holistic approach to health and wellness, spanning physical, mental, and financial well-being, in addition to providing extensive learning and development opportunities.
• Investing in Wajax customers and creating a differentiated customer experience - The Corporation has the privilege of supporting approximately 32,000 individual customers across Canada ranging from small local contractors to the country's largest industrial and resource organizations. People are the cornerstone of Wajax's brand and value proposition and the Corporation will continue to invest in the best tools, training and support to deliver the technical expertise and experience that is highly valued by its customers.
• Executing a clear organic growth strategy - The Corporation has organic growth opportunities in each of its heavy equipment and industrial parts and services categories. Heavy equipment categories include construction and forestry, mining, material handling and power systems, which collectively serve a broad range of customer capital equipment and related product support needs. Industrial parts and services categories include industrial parts and engineered repair services ("ERS"), which collectively serve a broad range of customer fixed plant maintenance, repair and reliability needs.
• Accretive acquisitions strategy - Acquisitions are an important aspect of the Corporation's growth strategy. The Corporation focuses primarily on acquisitions that add to the breadth and scale of its industrial parts and services categories. Wajax's national infrastructure and extensive customer relationships position it as an aggregator in the highly fragmented ERS and related industrial parts market. Secondarily, the Corporation considers acquisitions in heavy equipment categories where extensions to existing major distribution relationships are enhanced.
• Investing in the Wajax infrastructure - The Corporation invests in its infrastructure to improve the consistency of customer service and lower costs. The Corporation's current programs include the ongoing consolidation of its branch network, investing in new information systems and implementing Customer Support Centres that provide 24/7 customer support in all product and service categories.

In addition to the above and to meet the Corporation's long-term sustainability goals, the Corporation continues to focus and develop its environmental, social and governance programs as outlined below and further discussed in the Corporation's 2021 Annual Report:  

Sustainability Roadmap

Outlook
In 2021, Wajax delivered record revenue and strong earnings, rebounding from the challenges it faced in 2020 and exceeding its pre-COVID performance in 2019. Combine that with the Corporation's strengthened balance sheet and expanded product and service offerings, and Wajax is ideally positioned to continue to grow in 2022 and beyond.

As it moves further into 2022, Wajax is seeing sound fundamentals in many of its key markets, bolstered by improving commodity prices and increased capital spending. This positive view of the market is counterbalanced by the unpredictable COVID-19 pandemic and related supply chain issues, which Wajax expects will be a factor throughout the year ahead, particularly in its heavy equipment business. Wajax continues to manage these challenges through frequent dialogue with key suppliers and customers, pre-ordering new equipment, and utilizing repairs and rebuilds to extend the service life of equipment.

Despite these ongoing challenges, the Corporation's improved balance sheet and record start-of-year backlog of $419 million shows momentum in the business.⁽¹⁾ To maintain this momentum and increase shareholder value, Wajax plans to continue its focus on the following priorities: investing in its people and their safety, delivering exceptional customer experiences, organically growing its business, building its acquisition pipeline, supporting its closer relationship with Hitachi, prudently managing its balance sheet, deploying its ERP and remote diagnostic systems, and building sustainability into the business. Looking ahead, Wajax believes its strong balance sheet, ability to generate cash flow, and abundant growth opportunities will allow its business to grow meaningfully over the long term.

See the Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information section.

Annual and Fourth Quarter Highlights

2021 Full Year Highlights

• Revenue increased $214.6 million or 15.1%, to $1,637.3 million in 2021 from $1,422.6 million in 2020. Regionally:
  
  
• • Revenue in western Canada of $698.4 million increased 27.1% from the prior year due primarily to ERS and industrial parts strength related to the acquisition of Tundra Process Solutions Ltd. ("Tundra") earlier in the year, coupled with higher construction and forestry equipment revenue.
  • Revenue in central Canada of $311.7 million increased 3.1% from the prior year due primarily to strong ERS sales and higher power systems product support revenue, offset partially by lower material handling equipment sales.
  • Revenue in eastern Canada of $627.2 million increased 9.9% from the prior year due primarily to strength in bearings sales driving higher industrial parts revenue, and higher equipment and product support revenue in the construction and forestry and power systems categories, offset partially by lower mining equipment revenue.
    
    
• During the year, the Corporation qualified for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy ("CEWS") program and recognized $8.4 million as a reimbursement of compensation expense with $3.7 million and $4.7 million, respectively, allocated to cost of sales and selling and administrative expenses in proportion to personnel costs recorded in those areas. Approximately $4.0 million of the subsidy was allocated to employee compensation programs which included special bonuses for frontline employees. The resultant net pre-tax contribution to earnings of the CEWS recovery for the year ended December 31, 2021 was approximately $4.4 million. During the same period last year, the Corporation recognized $26.6 million as a reimbursement of compensation expense from the CEWS program with $14.1 million and $12.5 million, respectively, allocated to cost of sales and selling and administrative expenses in proportion to personnel costs recorded in those areas.
  
  
• Gross profit margin of 20.3% in 2021 increased 1.9% compared to 2020. Excluding the CEWS recoveries for the year ended December 31, 2021 and for the same period of 2020 of $3.7 million and $14.1 million respectively, gross profit margin was 20.0%, representing an increase of 2.6% compared to the gross profit margin of 17.4% in 2020. The increase in margin was driven primarily by higher equipment and parts margins, and a higher proportion of industrial parts and ERS sales compared to equipment sales. The higher equipment margins were partially driven by the accelerated disposal of aged and used equipment in the prior year.
  
  
• Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue increased to 14.6% in 2021 from 13.3% in 2020. Excluding the CEWS recoveries for the year ended December 31, 2021 and for the same period of 2020, of $4.7 million and $12.5 million respectively, selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue increased to 14.9% in 2021 from 14.2% in 2020. For the year ended December 31, 2021, selling and administrative expenses increased $50.0 million compared to the same period last year. This increase was due mainly to additional selling and administrative expenses related to Tundra of $20.5 million, higher incentive compensation of $12.2 million due primarily to improved financial results in 2021, a lower recovery of personnel expenses from the CEWS program of $7.7 million, and amortization expense of $2.5 million in the year relating to intangible assets recognized for the Tundra acquisition. The remaining increase to selling and administrative expenses was largely driven by higher salary costs as the volume of business increased over the prior year.
  
  
• EBIT increased $27.7 million, or 43.0%, to $92.3 million in 2021 versus $64.6 million in 2020.⁽¹⁾ The year-over-year increase is primarily attributable to increased volumes and margins, a higher proportion of industrial parts and ERS sales compared to equipment sales, and prior year restructuring and other related costs of $7.8 million without a similar cost in the current year. These increases were offset partially by higher selling and administrative expenses and a lower recovery of personnel expenses from the CEWS program.
  
  
• The Corporation generated net earnings of $53.2 million, or $2.50 per share in 2021, versus $31.7 million, or $1.58 per share in 2020. The Corporation generated adjusted net earnings of $51.5 million, or $2.41 per share in 2021, versus $35.1 million, or $1.75 per share in 2020.⁽¹⁾
• Adjusted EBITDA margin increased to 8.9% in 2021 from 8.6% in 2020.⁽¹⁾ Excluding the CEWS recoveries in 2021 and 2020 of $8.4 million and $26.6 million respectively, adjusted EBITDA margin increased to 8.4% in 2021 from 6.7% in 2020.⁽¹⁾
  
  
• Cash flows generated from operating activities amounted to $190.1 million in 2021, compared to cash flows generated from operating activities of $118.8 million in 2020. The increase in cash generated of $71.3 million was mainly attributable to an increase in cash generated from changes in non-cash operating working capital of $52.7 million, and an increase in net earnings excluding items not affecting cash flow of $31.1 million, offset partially by an increase in income taxes paid of $8.4 million.
  
  
• The Corporation's backlog at December 31, 2021 of $419.1 million increased $237.4 million, or 130.7%, compared to December 31, 2020 due to higher orders in all categories, including higher industrial parts and ERS orders with the addition of Tundra's backlog.⁽¹⁾
  
  
• Inventory increased $31.3 million from December 31, 2020 due primarily to the addition of Tundra's inventory and higher work-in-process and parts inventory driven by increased sales volumes, offset partially by lower equipment inventory.
  
  
• Working capital at December 31, 2021 decreased $62.7 million from December 31, 2020 due primarily to higher accounts payable and accrued liabilities, higher contract liabilities, and lower deposits on inventory. These working capital decreases were offset partially by higher inventory levels, higher contract assets, and higher trade and other receivables.⁽¹⁾ Trailing four-quarter average working capital as a percentage of the trailing 12-month sales was 20.5%, a decrease of 7.4% from 2020, due to the combination of the lower four-quarter average working capital and the higher trailing 12-month average sales.⁽¹⁾
  
  
• The Corporation's leverage ratio decreased to 1.29 times at December 31, 2021 compared to 2.28 times at December 31, 2020 due to the lower debt level on account of significant cash generated from operating activities, and a higher trailing 12-month pro-forma adjusted EBITDA.⁽¹⁾ The Corporation's senior secured leverage ratio was 0.82 times at December 31, 2021, compared to 1.73 times at December 31, 2020.⁽¹⁾
  
  
• On January 22, 2021, the Corporation acquired all of the issued and outstanding shares of Tundra for total consideration of $99.4 million, consisting of $74.1 million in cash and the issuance of 1,357,142 common shares of Wajax with a fair value of $25.3 million.
  
  
• During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Corporation entered into sale and leaseback transactions for three of its owned properties. The proceeds net of transaction costs on the sale of the properties were $13.8 million and the carrying amount was $3.6 million, resulting in a total gain on the sale of the properties of $10.2 million, of which $0.9 million was recognized in earnings at the time of transaction and the remaining $9.3 million was deferred as a reduction of the right-of-use assets.
  
  
• On August 19, 2021, Wajax and Hitachi Construction Machinery Loaders America Inc. ("Hitachi") announced that, effective March 1, 2022, the companies plan to expand their current Canadian direct distribution relationship to include construction excavators, mining equipment and related aftermarket parts. Since 2001, these products have been supplied to Wajax via a third-party joint venture partner to Hitachi Construction Machinery ("HCM"). HCM and its joint venture partner dissolved their partnership effective February 28, 2022.
  
  This change is expected to provide Wajax with enhanced access to product development, increased market responsiveness and improved reliability of equipment supply. It is also expected to increase Wajax and Hitachi market share by providing customers with better access to products which lead the market in terms of value, performance and reliability.
  
  Wajax and Hitachi have continued to work closely on transition planning leading up to March 1, 2022, and continue to expect significant long-term benefits from the expanded relationship. For more information, please see the Corporation's press release dated August 19, 2021.
  
  
• On September 1, 2021, the Corporation acquired all of the issued and outstanding shares of Fort St. John, British Columbia-based QT Valve & Supply Limited ("QT Valve"), a supplier of valves and valve services to the western oil and gas market. QT Valve was acquired for total consideration of approximately $2.0 million, subject to post-closing adjustments. QT Valve's trailing twelve-month revenue from the time of acquisition was $4.6 million.
  
  
• On October 1, 2021, the Corporation amended its bank credit facility to extend the maturity date for the combined $400.0 million non-revolving and revolving term facilities from October 1, 2024 to October 1, 2026, and to reduce the pricing of the $50.0 million non-revolving acquisition term facility to match the pricing on the main credit facility.
  
  
• The consignment program of HCM's joint venture partner, relating to construction-class excavators, ended October 31, 2021. Effective November 1, 2021, the Corporation began assuming ownership of new stock received. Inventory on hand as at October 31, 2021 remained subject to the prior consignment terms, which included the opportunity for the Corporation to purchase the inventory prior to sale to a customer. Due to certain preferential terms offered by the supplier, and as previously announced, the Corporation purchased all consignment inventory on hand during the fourth quarter of 2021. The Corporation also purchased all inventory received from the supplier during the period from January 1, 2022 to February 28, 2022. On March 1, 2022, new payment terms from the manufacturer took effect. The Corporation's existing credit facilities are expected to continue to be sufficient to support total normal course working capital requirements, including the effect of this change.
  
  
• Jane Craighead was appointed to the Corporation's Board of Directors, effective November 1, 2021.
  
  
• As previously announced, President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Foote retired on December 31, 2021. Ignacy (Iggy) Domagalski, formerly the Chief Executive Officer of Tundra, which was acquired by Wajax effective January 22, 2021, succeeded Mr. Foote as President and Chief Executive Officer of Wajax on January 1, 2022. For more information, please see the Corporation's press release dated October 5, 2021.
  
  
• Subsequent to year-end, on January 31, 2022, the Corporation announced the acquisition of the net operating assets of Thunder Bay, Ontario-based Process Flow Systems Ltd. ("Process Flow"). The assets of Process Flow were acquired in exchange for cash consideration of approximately $4.0 million, plus a three-year performance-based earnout of up to $0.7 million in the aggregate, payable in cash. Process Flow's trailing twelve-month revenue from the time of acquisition was $6.5 million.

Fourth Quarter Highlights

• Revenue in the fourth quarter of 2021 increased $21.8 million, or 5.7%, to $402.8 million, from $381.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2020. Regionally:
  
  
• • Revenue in western Canada of $169.7 million increased 11.9% from the prior year due primarily to ERS and industrial parts strength related to the acquisition of Tundra earlier in the year, offset partially by lower mining equipment sales.
  • Revenue in central Canada of $75.9 million decreased 6.7% from the prior year mainly due to lower construction and forestry equipment revenue.
  • Revenue in eastern Canada of $157.2 million increased 6.2% from the prior year due to moderately higher revenue in most categories, offset partially by lower construction and forestry equipment revenue.
    
    
• During the fourth quarter, the Corporation did not recognize any reimbursement of compensation expense from the CEWS program. During the same quarter last year, the Corporation qualified for the CEWS and recognized $5.7 million as a reimbursement of compensation expense with $4.4 million and $1.3 million, respectively, allocated to cost of sales and selling and administrative expenses in proportion to personnel costs recorded in those areas.
  
  
• Gross profit margin of 20.3% in the fourth quarter of 2021 increased 2.2% compared to gross profit margin of 18.1% in 2020. Excluding the CEWS recoveries in the fourth quarter of last year of $4.4 million, gross profit margin in the fourth quarter of 2021 increased 3.3% compared to the gross profit margin of 17.0% in 2020. The increase in margin was driven primarily by higher equipment and parts margins, and a higher proportion of industrial parts and ERS sales compared to equipment sales.
  
  
• Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue increased to 16.5% in the fourth quarter of 2021 from 13.2% in the fourth quarter of 2020. Excluding the CEWS recoveries in the fourth quarter of last year of $1.3 million, selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue increased from 13.5% in the fourth quarter last year to 16.5% in the fourth quarter of 2021. Selling and administrative expenses in the fourth quarter of 2021 increased $16.2 million compared to the fourth quarter of 2020 due mainly to additional selling and administrative expenses related to Tundra of $5.9 million, higher incentive compensation of $4.0 million due primarily to improved financial results in 2021, a prior year $1.3 million recovery of personnel expenses from the CEWS program without a similar recovery in the current year, professional fees related to environmental remediation of $1.0 million in the quarter, and amortization expense of $0.7 million in the quarter relating to intangible assets recognized for the Tundra acquisition.
  
  
• EBIT decreased $3.5 million, or 18.5%, to $15.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2021 versus $18.8 million in 2020.⁽¹⁾ The year-over-year decrease in EBIT is primarily attributable to higher selling and administrative expenses, partially offset by higher volumes and margins, and a higher proportion of industrial parts and ERS sales compared to equipment sales.
  
  
• The Corporation generated net earnings of $8.0 million, or $0.37 per share, in the fourth quarter of 2021 versus $10.7 million, or $0.53 per share, in 2020. The Corporation generated adjusted net earnings of $7.0 million, or $0.33 per share, in the fourth quarter of 2021 versus $9.6 million, or $0.48 per share, in 2020.⁽¹⁾
  
  
• Adjusted EBITDA margin decreased to 7.1% in the fourth quarter of 2021 from 8.1% in 2020.⁽¹⁾ Excluding the CEWS recoveries in the fourth quarter of last year of $5.7 million, adjusted EBITDA margin increased to 7.1% in the fourth quarter of 2021 from 6.6% in 2020.⁽¹⁾
  
  
• The Corporation's backlog at December 31, 2021 of $419.1 million increased $47.5 million, or 12.8%, compared to September 30, 2021 due primarily to higher construction and forestry orders and higher industrial parts orders.⁽¹⁾
  
  
• Inventory of $388.7 million at December 31, 2021 increased $17.4 million from September 30, 2021 due largely to the previously announced purchase by the Corporation of all construction-class excavator consignment inventory on hand. Additional details are provided above, and in the Corporation's press release dated November 1, 2021. Consignment inventory, comprised primarily of construction excavators, declined by $27.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2021 to nil as at December 31, 2021.
  
  
• Working capital of $313.5 million at December 31, 2021 decreased $16.9 million from September 30, 2021, due primarily to higher accounts payable and accrued liabilities, lower contract assets, and higher contract liabilities, offset partially by higher inventory.⁽¹⁾ Trailing four-quarter average working capital as a percentage of the trailing 12-month sales was 20.5%, a decrease of 1.2% from September 30, 2021, due to the combination of the lower four-quarter average working capital and the higher trailing 12-month sales.⁽¹⁾
  
  
• Cash flows generated from operating activities amounted to $36.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2021, compared to cash flows generated from operating activities of $48.1 million in the same quarter of the previous year. The decrease in cash generated of $12.0 million was mainly attributable to a decrease in cash generated from changes in non-cash operating working capital of $11.1 million. The decrease in cash generated from changes in non-cash operating working capital of $11.1 million was driven primarily by a decrease in cash generated from changes in inventory of $52.3 million, offset partially by a decrease in cash used in changes in accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $18.0 million, an increase in cash generated from changes in contract liabilities of $5.3 million, a decrease in cash used in changes in provisions of $4.7 million, and an increase in cash generated from changes in contract assets of $8.9 million.
  
  
• The Corporation's leverage ratio decreased to 1.29 times at December 31, 2021, compared to 1.39 times at September 30, 2021.⁽¹⁾ The decrease in the leverage ratio was due to the lower debt level in the current period, offset partially by a lower trailing 12-month pro-forma adjusted EBITDA.⁽¹⁾ The Corporation's senior secured leverage ratio was 0.82 times at December 31, 2021, compared to 0.95 times at September 30, 2021.⁽¹⁾

Summary of Annual Operating Results

 

Annual Results of Operations

Revenue by Geographic Region

Revenue by Market

 

Revenue Sources

For the year ended December 31, 2021, revenue increased 15.1%, or $214.6 million, to $1,637.3 million, from $1,422.6 million in 2020. The following factors contributed to the increase in revenue:

• Industrial parts sales have increased due mainly to the acquisition of Tundra effective January 22, 2021 and organic strength in bearings and hydraulics sales in all regions, but primarily in western and eastern Canada.
  
  
• ERS sales have increased due to strength in all regions, but primarily in western Canada. The higher ERS revenue in western Canada was driven primarily by the acquisition of Tundra.
  
  
• Product support sales have increased primarily on higher construction and forestry revenue in western and eastern Canada and higher power systems revenue in central and eastern Canada.
  
  
• Equipment sales have increased due mainly to strength in construction and forestry sales in eastern and western Canada and higher power systems revenue in eastern Canada. These increases were offset partially by lower mining sales in eastern and western Canada and lower material handling sales in central Canada.

Backlog
The Corporation's backlog at December 31, 2021 of $419.1 million increased $237.4 million, or 130.7%, compared to December 31, 2020 due to higher orders in all categories, including higher industrial parts and ERS orders with the addition of Tundra's backlog. "Backlog" does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP. See the Non-GAAP and Additional GAAP Measures section.

Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS)
For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Corporation recognized $8.4 million as a reimbursement of compensation expense from the CEWS program with $3.7 million and $4.7 million, respectively, allocated to cost of sales and selling and administrative expenses in proportion to personnel costs recorded in those areas. Approximately $4.0 million of the subsidy was allocated to employee compensation programs which included special bonuses for frontline employees. The resultant net pre-tax contribution to earnings of the CEWS recovery for the year ended December 31, 2021 was approximately $4.4 million. During the same period last year, the Corporation recognized $26.6 million as a reimbursement of compensation expense from the CEWS program with $14.1 million and $12.5 million, respectively, allocated to cost of sales and selling and administrative expenses in proportion to personnel costs recorded in those areas.

Gross profit
For the year ended December 31, 2021, gross profit increased $69.9 million, or 26.7%, compared to the same period last year due to increased volumes and margins, and a higher proportion of industrial parts and ERS sales compared to equipment sales. These increases were offset partially by a lower recovery of personnel expenses from the CEWS program.

For the year ended December 31, 2021, gross profit margin of 20.3% increased 1.9% compared to gross profit margin of 18.4% in the same period last year. Excluding the CEWS recoveries for the year ended December 31, 2021 and for the same period of 2020 of $3.7 million and $14.1 million respectively, gross profit margin was 20.0%, representing an increase of 2.6% compared to the gross profit margin of 17.4% in 2020. The increase in margin was driven primarily by higher equipment and parts margins, and a higher proportion of industrial parts and ERS sales compared to equipment sales. The higher equipment margins were partially driven by the accelerated disposal of aged and used equipment in the prior year.

Selling and administrative expenses
For the year ended December 31, 2021, selling and administrative expenses increased $50.0 million compared to the same period last year. This increase was due mainly to additional selling and administrative expenses related to Tundra of $20.5 million, higher incentive compensation of $12.2 million due primarily to improved financial results in 2021, a lower recovery of personnel expenses from the CEWS program of $7.7 million, and amortization expense of $2.5 million in the year relating to intangible assets recognized for the Tundra acquisition. The remaining increase to selling and administrative expenses was largely driven by higher salary costs as the volume of business increased over the prior year. Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue increased to 14.6% in 2021 from 13.3% in 2020. Excluding the CEWS recoveries for the year ended December 31, 2021 and for the same period of 2020, of $4.7 million and $12.5 million respectively, selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue increased to 14.9% in 2021 from 14.2% in 2020.

Finance costs
For the year ended December 31, 2021, finance costs of $19.1 million decreased $1.8 million compared to the same period in 2020 due primarily to lower average borrowings under the bank credit facility. See the Liquidity and Capital Resources section.

Income tax expense
The Corporation's effective income tax rate of 27.2% for the year ended December 31, 2021 was higher compared to the statutory rate of 26.2% due mainly to the impact of expenses not deductible for tax purposes. The Corporation's effective income tax rate of 27.4% for the same period in 2020 was higher compared to the statutory rate of 26.5% due mainly to the impact of expenses not deductible for tax purposes.

Net earnings
For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Corporation generated net earnings of $53.2 million, or $2.50 per share, compared to $31.7 million, or $1.58 per share, in 2020. The $21.6 million increase in net earnings resulted primarily from increased volumes and margins, a higher proportion of industrial parts and ERS sales compared to equipment sales, and prior year restructuring and other related costs of $7.8 million without a similar cost in the current year. These increases were offset partially by higher selling and administrative expenses and a lower recovery of personnel expenses from the CEWS program.

Adjusted net earnings (See the Non-GAAP and Additional GAAP Measures section)
Adjusted net earnings for the year ended December 31, 2021 excludes a gain recorded on the sale of properties of $2.1 million after-tax, or $0.10 per share (2020 – gain of $2.1 million after-tax, or $0.11 per share), non-cash losses on mark to market of derivative instruments of less than $0.1 million after-tax, or less than $0.01 per share (2020 – gains of $1.0 million after-tax, or $0.05 per share), and Tundra transaction costs of $0.3 million after-tax, or $0.01 per share (2020 – cost of $0.8 million after-tax, or $0.04 per share). Adjusted net earnings in 2020 also excludes restructuring and other related costs of $5.7 million after-tax, or $0.28 per share, and NorthPoint transaction costs of $0.2 million after-tax, or $0.01 per share.

As such, adjusted net earnings increased $16.4 million to $51.5 million, or $2.41 per share, for the year ended December 31, 2021 from $35.1 million, or $1.75 per share, in 2020.

Comprehensive income
For the year ended December 31, 2021, the total comprehensive income of $58.9 million included net earnings of $53.2 million and an other comprehensive gain of $5.7 million. The other comprehensive gain of $5.7 million in the current year resulted primarily from $3.3 million of gains on derivative instruments outstanding at the end of the period designated as cash flow hedges.

Acquisition of Tundra
On January 22, 2021, the Corporation acquired all of the issued and outstanding shares of Calgary, Alberta-based Tundra for an aggregate purchase price of $99.4 million, composed of cash consideration of $74.1 million and the issuance of 1,357,142 Wajax common shares with a fair value of $25.3 million. Founded in 1999, Tundra provides maintenance and technical services to customers in the western Canadian midstream oil and gas, oil sands, petrochemical, mining, forestry and municipal sectors. Tundra also distributes a diverse range of industrial process equipment, representing industry-leading manufacturers of valves and actuators, instrumentation and controls, motors and drives, control buildings, boilers and water treatment solutions. Employing approximately 150 people at the time of acquisition, Tundra operates four facilities in Alberta and maintains a sales presence in western Canada. Tundra added revenues of $125.4 million and net earnings of $5.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2021, excluding $1.8 million of after-tax amortization expense relating to intangible assets recognized for the Tundra acquisition. Consistent with Wajax's strategy, the acquisition of Tundra is expected to continue to provide meaningful growth in the Corporation's ERS and industrial parts categories. Tundra's operations are complementary to Wajax's existing ERS and industrial parts businesses, adding extensively to its service offering and product portfolio, and further enhancing the "One Wajax" value proposition. The acquisition contributed $0.12 (net of acquisition-related interest costs and amortization on intangible assets) for the 2021 financial year, on an earnings per share basis.

Selected Annual Information

The following selected annual information is audited and has been prepared on the same basis as the 2021 annual audited consolidated financial statements.

Since 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in governments and public health authorities worldwide enacting emergency measures to combat the spread of the novel coronavirus and its variants, including the implementation of travel bans, physical distancing, self-isolation and quarantine periods. These measures have impacted economies and financial markets worldwide, resulting in an economic slowdown that has negatively affected the Corporation's end markets, supply chains, and financial results, most notably in 2020.

Revenue in 2021 of $1,637.3 million increased $214.6 million compared to 2020. While Wajax saw revenue increases across all categories, the favourable variance was driven largely by ERS and industrial parts strength in western Canada. This was due to the acquisition of Tundra during the year as the Corporation continues to grow its industrial parts and ERS business. Revenue in 2020 of $1,422.6 million decreased $130.4 million compared to 2019. The decrease in 2020 was due primarily to lower construction and forestry, industrial parts, and power systems revenue in all regions, and lower material handling sales in eastern Canada. These declines were offset partially by ERS strength in western and central Canada due to the acquisition of NorthPoint as the Corporation continued to focus on expanding its ERS business.

Net earnings in 2021 of $53.2 million increased $21.6 million, or 68.2%, from 2020. The increase in net earnings resulted primarily from increased volumes and margins, a higher proportion of industrial parts and ERS sales compared to equipment sales, and prior year restructuring and other related costs of $7.8 million without a similar cost in the current year. These increases were offset partially by higher selling and administrative expenses and a lower recovery of personnel expenses from the CEWS program. The Corporation generated adjusted net earnings of $51.5 million, or $2.41 per share in 2021, versus $35.1 million, or $1.75 per share in 2020. Net earnings in 2020 of $31.7 million decreased $7.9 million, or 19.9%, from 2019. The decrease in net earnings resulted primarily from lower revenue and decreased equipment and parts margins, partially offset by higher ERS sales and margins, lower selling and administrative expenses and the $26.6 million CEWS recovery. The Corporation generated adjusted net earnings of $35.1 million, or $1.75 per share in 2020, versus $41.9 million, or $2.10 per share in 2019.

The $35.8 million increase in total assets from December 31, 2019 to December 31, 2021 was mainly attributable to higher goodwill and intangible assets of $91.8 million, and the higher right-of-use assets of $17.4 million. These increases were partially offset by lower rental equipment of $31.3 million, lower deposits on inventory of $30.4 million, and lower inventories of $26.2 million.

Non-current liabilities at December 31, 2021 of $323.0 million decreased $81.8 million from December 31, 2019 primarily attributable to a decrease in long-term debt of $127.4 million, offset partially by an increase in lease liabilities of $31.2 million and an increase in deferred tax liabilities of $12.9 million.

Selected Quarterly Information

The following table summarizes unaudited quarterly consolidated financial data for the eight most recently completed quarters.

Although quarterly fluctuations in revenue and net earnings are difficult to predict, during times of weak resource sector activity, the first quarter will tend to have seasonally lower revenues. However, the project timing of large mining trucks and shovels and power generation packages can shift the revenue and net earnings throughout the year. In addition, the sale of large construction units can also impact revenue due to the seasonality in that industry. Starting in 2020, revenues and net earnings have also been impacted by COVID-19, with the impact being felt more significantly in 2020 as compared to 2021.

Effective January 13, 2020, the Corporation acquired NorthPoint, and effective January 22, 2021, the Corporation acquired Tundra. The results of operations and financial position of these acquired businesses have been included in the above figures since their respective dates of acquisition. The acquisition of NorthPoint facilitated year-over-year growth in the Corporation's ERS revenue when comparing 2020 to 2019, which contributed to Wajax's ability to weather the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic, adding $36.9 million in incremental revenue and $2.1 million in incremental net earnings in 2020. The acquisition of Tundra facilitated year-over-year growth in the Corporation's ERS and industrial parts revenue when comparing 2021 to 2020, adding $125.4 million in incremental revenue and $5.2 million in incremental net earnings in 2021, excluding $1.8 million of after-tax amortization expense relating to intangible assets recognized for the Tundra acquisition.

A discussion of Wajax's previous quarterly results can be found in Wajax's quarterly MD&A available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Consolidated Financial Condition

Capital Structure and Key Financial Condition Measures

The Corporation's objective is to manage its working capital and normal-course capital investment programs within a leverage range of 1.5 to 2.0 times and to fund those programs through operating cash flow and its bank credit facilities as required. There may be instances whereby the Corporation is willing to maintain a leverage ratio outside of this range during changes in economic cycles. The Corporation may also maintain a leverage ratio above the stated range as a result of investments in acquisitions and may fund those acquisitions using its bank credit facilities and other debt instruments in accordance with the Corporation's expectations of total future cash flows, financing costs and other factors. The Corporation's leverage ratio is currently below the target range, due to strength in the trailing 12-month pro-forma adjusted EBITDA, combined with a reduction in debt levels on account of significant cash generated from operating activities. See the Funded Net Debt section.

Shareholders' Equity

The Corporation's shareholders' equity at December 31, 2021 of $389.9 million increased $64.3 million from December 31, 2020, due primarily to total comprehensive income of $58.9 million and shares issued to acquire Tundra of $25.3 million, offset partially by dividends declared of $21.4 million.

The Corporation's share capital included in shareholders' equity on the consolidated statements of financial position, consists of:

At the date of this MD&A, the Corporation had 21,409,323 common shares issued and outstanding, net of shares held in trust.

At December 31, 2021, Wajax had four share-based compensation plans; the Wajax Share Ownership Plan (the "SOP"), the Directors' Deferred Share Unit Plan (the "DDSUP"), the Mid-Term Incentive Plan for Senior Executives (the "MTIP") (with MTIP awards being composed of performance share units ("PSUs") and restricted share units ("RSUs")) and the Deferred Share Unit Plan (the "DSUP").

As of December 31, 2021, there were 530,598 SOP and DDSUP (treasury share rights plans) rights outstanding of which 500,405 rights were vested, 300,982 MTIP PSUs and equity-settled DSUP (market-purchased share rights plans) rights outstanding of which 26,092 rights were vested, and 525,210 MTIP RSUs and cash-settled DSUP (cash-settled rights plans) rights outstanding of which 10,689 rights were vested. Depending on the actual level of achievement of the performance targets associated with the outstanding MTIP PSUs, the number of market-purchased shares required to satisfy the Corporation's obligations could be higher or lower.

Wajax recorded compensation expense of $6.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 (2020 – expense of $4.5 million) in respect of these plans.

Funded Net Debt (See the Non-GAAP and Additional GAAP Measures section)

Funded net debt of $143.5 million at December 31, 2021 decreased $76.1 million compared to $219.6 million at December 31, 2020. The decrease during the year was due primarily to cash generated from operating activities of $190.1 million and proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment of $17.6 million, offset partially by the $75.4 million in cash paid as consideration for business acquisitions, the payment of lease liabilities of $28.9 million and dividends paid of $21.1 million.

The Corporation's ratio of funded net debt to total capital decreased to 26.9% at December 31, 2021 from 40.3%  at December 31, 2020 due to both the lower funded net debt level in the current year and the higher shareholders' equity level in the current year.

The Corporation's leverage ratio of 1.29 times at December 31, 2021 decreased from the December 31, 2020 ratio of 2.28 times due primarily to the lower debt level in the current year and a higher trailing 12-month pro-forma adjusted EBITDA. See the Non-GAAP and Additional GAAP Measures section.

See the Liquidity and Capital Resources section.

Financial Instruments

Wajax uses derivative financial instruments in the management of its foreign currency, interest rate and share-based compensation exposures. Wajax policy restricts the use of derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. 

Wajax monitors the proportion of variable rate debt to its total debt portfolio and may enter into interest rate hedge contracts to mitigate a portion of the interest rate risk on its variable rate debt. A change in interest rates, in particular related to the Corporation's unhedged variable rate debt, is not expected to have a material impact on the Corporation's results of operations or financial condition over the long term.

Wajax has entered into interest rate swap contracts to minimize exposure to interest rate fluctuations on its variable rate debt. All interest rate swap contracts are recorded in the consolidated financial statements at fair value. As at December 31, 2021, Wajax had the following interest rate swap contracts outstanding:

• $150.0 million, expiring in October 2026, with a weighted average interest rate of 2.21% (December 31, 2020 – $150.0 million, expiring in November 2024, with a weighted average interest rate of 2.12%)

Wajax enters into foreign exchange forward contracts to hedge the exchange risk associated with the cost of certain inbound inventory and foreign currency-denominated sales to customers along with the associated receivables as part of its normal course of business. As at December 31, 2021, Wajax had the following contracts outstanding:

• to buy U.S. $96.5 million (December 31, 2020 – to buy U.S. $45.9 million),
• to buy Euro €0.5 million (December 31, 2020 – to buy Euro €0.1 million),
• to sell U.S. $37.0 million (December 31, 2020 – to sell U.S. $32.2 million), and
• to sell Euro €0.9 million (December 31, 2020 – to sell Euro €0.9 million).

The U.S. dollar contracts expire between January 2022 and January 2024, with an average U.S./Canadian dollar rate of 1.2546.

The Euro contracts expire between January 2022 and December 2022, with an average Euro/Canadian dollar rate of 1.4940.

Wajax has entered into total return swap contracts to hedge the exposure to share price market risk on a class of MTIP rights that are cash-settled. All total return swap contracts are recorded in the consolidated financial statements at fair value. As at December 31, 2021, Wajax had the following total return swap contracts outstanding:

• contracts totaling 390,000 shares at an initial share value of $6.6 million (December 31, 2020 – contracts totaling 387,000 shares at an initial share value of $7.2 million)

The total return swap contracts expire between March 2022 and March 2024.

Wajax measures derivatives not designated as hedging instruments at fair value with subsequent changes in fair value being recorded in earnings. Derivatives designated as effective hedges are measured at fair value with subsequent changes in fair value being recorded in other comprehensive income until the related hedged item is recorded and affects income or inventory. The fair value of derivative instruments is estimated based upon market conditions using appropriate valuation models. The carrying values reported in the statement of financial position for financial instruments are not significantly different from their fair values.

A change in foreign currency value, relative to the Canadian dollar, on transactions with customers that include unhedged foreign currency exposures is not expected to have a material impact on the Corporation's results of operations or financial condition over the longer term.

Wajax will periodically institute price increases to offset the negative impact of foreign exchange rate increases and volatility on imported goods to ensure margins are not eroded. However, a sudden strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to the Canadian dollar can have a negative impact mainly on parts margins in the short term prior to price increases taking effect.

The impact of a change in the Corporation's share price on cash-settled MTIP rights is not expected to have a material impact on the Corporation's results of operations or financial condition over the longer term.

Wajax is exposed to the risk of non-performance by counterparties to foreign exchange forward contracts, long-term interest rate swap contracts and total return swap contracts. These counterparties are large financial institutions that maintain high short-term and long-term credit ratings. To date, no such counterparty has failed to meet its financial obligations to Wajax. Management does not believe there is a significant risk of non-performance by these counterparties and will continue to monitor the credit risk of these counterparties.

Contractual Obligations

The lease obligations relate to contracts to lease properties for the Corporation's branch network, certain vehicles, computer hardware, and equipment. The bank debt obligation relates to the bank credit facility, and the debentures obligation relates to the senior unsecured debentures. See the Liquidity and Capital Resources section.

Employee Pension Plan Wind-Up Settlement
Prior to December 31, 2019, the Corporation sponsored three pension plans: the Wajax Limited Pension Plan (the "Employees' Plan") which, except for a small group of employees in a defined benefit plan, was a defined contribution plan, and two defined benefit plans: the Pension Plan for Executive Employees of Wajax Limited (the "Executive Plan") and the Wajax Limited Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (the "SERP"). Effective December 31, 2019, the Employees' Plan was wound up. Benefit accruals under the plan were frozen effective as of such date and all active members joined a new defined contribution plan sponsored by the Corporation, the Wajax Limited Defined Contribution Pension Plan. During the year, the Corporation established and sponsored a Simplified Pension Plan, designed as a defined contribution plan for employees in the province of Quebec.

During the year, the Corporation settled benefit obligations and plan assets as part of the wind-up of the Employees' Plan. The settlement was completed by entering into an agreement with a third-party insurance company to purchase an annuity for participants who selected that an annuity be purchased on their behalf, and by paying commuted values to participants who selected a lump sum payout. The cost of the annuity purchase totaled $4.4 million and was funded with existing plan assets. For those participants who selected a lump sum settlement, the total lump sum paid was $2.6 million, which was also paid from existing plan assets. As a result of the settlement, the Employees' Plan assets and benefit obligations declined by $7.0 million and $7.1 million, respectively, resulting in a gain on settlement of $0.1 million that the Corporation recorded in the consolidated statements of earnings during the year.

Related Party Transactions

The Corporation's related party transactions, consisting of the compensation of the Board of Directors and key management personnel, totaled $7.6 million in 2021 (2020 - $5.9 million).

Off Balance Sheet Financing

It is likely but not reasonably certain that existing leases will be renewed or replaced, resulting in lease commitments being sustained at similar levels. In the alternative, Wajax may incur capital expenditures to acquire equivalent capacity.

As of December 31, 2021, the Corporation no longer had consignment inventory on hand from a major supplier (December 31, 2020 – $54.6 million, net of deposits of $42.3 million). The consignment program of the supplier, HCM's joint venture partner, relating to construction-class excavators, ended October 31, 2021. Effective November 1, 2021, the Corporation began assuming ownership of new stock received. Inventory on hand as at October 31, 2021 remained subject to the prior consignment terms, which included the opportunity for the Corporation to purchase the inventory prior to sale to a customer. Due to certain preferential terms offered by the supplier, and as previously announced, the Corporation purchased all consignment inventory on hand during the fourth quarter of 2021. The Corporation also purchased all inventory received from the supplier during the period from January 1, 2022 to February 28, 2022. On March 1, 2022, new payment terms from the manufacturer took effect.

Although management currently believes the Corporation has adequate debt capacity, Wajax would have to access the equity or debt capital markets, or reduce dividends to accommodate any shortfalls in Wajax's credit facility. See the Liquidity and Capital Resources section.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Corporation's liquidity is maintained through various sources, including bank and non-bank credit facilities, debentures and cash generated from operations.

Bank and Non-bank Credit Facilities and Debentures

Wajax has a $450.0 million bank credit facility, of which $400.0 million matures October 1, 2026 and is composed of a non-revolving term facility and a revolving term facility; the remaining $50.0 million matures December 30, 2022 and represents a non-revolving acquisition term facility. On October 1, 2021, the Corporation amended its bank credit facility to extend the maturity date for the combined $400.0 million non-revolving and revolving term facilities from October 1, 2024 to October 1, 2026, and to reduce the pricing of the $50.0 million non-revolving acquisition term facility to match the pricing on the main credit facility. The $0.6 million cost of amending the facility has been capitalized and will be amortized over the remaining term of the facility. Previously, on January 22, 2021, the Corporation had utilized the $50.0 million non-revolving acquisition term facility to finance the acquisition of Tundra. The remaining cash portion of the purchase price was financed with the revolving term facility.

At December 31, 2021, Wajax had borrowed $100.0 million and issued $7.3 million of letters of credit for a total utilization of $107.3 million of its $450.0 million bank credit facility. Borrowing capacity under the bank credit facility is dependent on the level of inventories on-hand and outstanding trade accounts receivables. At December 31, 2021, borrowing capacity under the bank credit facility was equal to $450.0 million, of which $342.7 million was accessible to the Corporation.

The bank credit facility contains customary restrictive covenants, including limitations on the payment of cash dividends and an interest coverage maintenance ratio, all of which were met as at December 31, 2021. In particular, the Corporation is restricted from declaring dividends in the event the Corporation's senior secured leverage ratio, as defined in the bank credit facility agreement, exceeds 4.0 times. At December 31, 2021, the Corporation's senior secured leverage ratio was 0.82 times.

Borrowings under the bank credit facility bear floating rates of interest at margins over Canadian dollar bankers' acceptance yields, U.S. dollar LIBOR rates or prime. Margins on the facility depend on the Corporation's leverage ratio at the time of borrowing and range between 1.5% and 3.0% for Canadian dollar bankers' acceptances and U.S. dollar LIBOR borrowings, and 0.5% and 2.0% for prime rate borrowings.

In addition, Wajax had $57.0 million of senior unsecured debentures outstanding at December 31, 2021, bearing interest at a rate of 6.00% per annum, payable semi-annually and maturing on January 15, 2025. The debentures will not be redeemable before January 15, 2023 (the "First Call Date"), except upon the occurrence of a change of control of the Corporation in accordance with the terms of the indenture governing the debentures (the "Indenture"). On and after the First Call Date and prior to January 15, 2024, the debentures will be redeemable in whole or in part from time to time at the Corporation's option at a redemption price equal to 103.0% of the principal amount of the debentures redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, up to but excluding the date set for redemption. On and after January 15, 2024 and prior to the maturity date, the debentures will be redeemable, in whole or in part, from time to time at the Corporation's option at par plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, up to but excluding the date set for redemption. The Corporation shall provide not more than 60 nor less than 30 days' prior notice of redemption of the debentures.

The Corporation will have the option to satisfy its obligation to repay the principal amount of the debentures due at redemption or maturity in either cash or freely tradable common shares determined in accordance with the terms of the Indenture. The debentures will not be convertible into common shares at the option of the holders at any time.

Under the terms of the bank credit facility, Wajax is permitted to have additional interest bearing debt of $25.0 million. As such, Wajax has up to $25.0 million of demand inventory equipment financing capacity with two non-bank lenders. At December 31, 2021, Wajax had no utilization of the interest bearing equipment financing facilities.

In addition, the Corporation has an agreement with a financial institution to sell 100% of selected trade accounts receivable on a recurring, non-recourse basis. Under this facility, up to $20.0 million of accounts receivable is permitted to be sold to the financial institution and can remain outstanding at any point in time. After the sale, Wajax does not retain any interests in the accounts receivable, but continues to service and collect the outstanding accounts receivable on behalf of the financial institution. As at December 31, 2021, the Corporation continues to service and collect $10.2 million in accounts receivable on behalf of the financial institution.

As at December 31, 2021, $342.7 million was accessible under the bank facility and $25.0 million was unutilized under the non-bank facilities. As of March 7, 2022, Wajax continues to maintain its $450.0 million bank credit facility and an additional $25.0 million in credit facilities with non-bank lenders. Wajax maintains sufficient liquidity to meet short-term normal course working capital and maintenance capital requirements and certain strategic investments. However, Wajax may be required to access the equity or debt capital markets to fund significant acquisitions.

The Corporation's tolerance to interest rate risk decreases/increases as the Corporation's leverage ratio increases/decreases. At December 31, 2021, 100.0% of the Corporation's funded net debt was at a fixed interest rate which is within the Corporation's interest rate risk policy.

Cash Flow

The following table highlights the major components of cash flow as reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020:

Operating Activities
For the year ended December 31, 2021, cash flows generated from operating activities amounted to $190.1 million, compared to cash flows generated from operating activities of $118.8 million for the previous year. The increase in cash generated of $71.3 million was mainly attributable to an increase in cash generated from changes in non-cash operating working capital of $52.7 million, and an increase in net earnings excluding items not affecting cash flow of $31.1 million, offset partially by an increase in income taxes paid of $8.4 million. The increase in cash generated from changes in non-cash operating working capital of $52.7 million was driven primarily by a decrease in cash used from changes in accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $108.5 million, and a decrease in cash used from changes in deposits on inventory of $43.8 million, offset partially by a decrease in cash generated from changes in inventory of $74.3 million, and a decrease in cash generated from changes in trade and other receivables of $23.4 million.

For the year ended December 31, 2021, rental equipment additions of $10.1 million (2020 – $16.5 million) related to material handling lift trucks.

Changes in significant components of non-cash operating working capital for the years ended December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 include the following:

Significant components of the changes in non-cash operating working capital for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to the year ended December 31, 2020 are as follows:

• Trade and other receivables decreased $8.5 million in 2021 when excluding the trade and other receivables acquired through business acquisitions of $17.5 million, compared to a decrease of $31.9 million in 2020. The decrease in 2021 resulted primarily from strong overall collections, including the collection of a prior year receivable balance for a large mining shovel. The decrease in 2020 resulted primarily from lower sales activity and a large material handling equipment delivery made to a customer at the end of 2019.
  
  
• Inventory increased $15.6 million in 2021 when excluding the inventory acquired through business acquisitions of $15.7 million compared to a decrease of $58.6 million in 2020. The increase in 2021 was due to higher work-in-process and parts inventory due to increased sales volumes, offset partially by lower equipment inventory. The decrease in 2020 was due to lower equipment, parts and work-in-process inventory as the Corporation managed its inventory levels in response to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on customer demand and supply chains.
  
  
• Deposits on inventory decreased $37.1 million in 2021 compared to an increase of $6.7 million in 2020. The decrease in 2021 was due to the previously announced purchase by the Corporation of all construction-class excavator consignment inventory on hand. See the Annual and Fourth Quarter Highlights section, as well as the Corporation's press release dated November 1, 2021. The increase in 2020 was due primarily to increased deposits related to consignment inventory being held in excess of nine months.
  
  
• Accounts payable and accrued liabilities increased $50.3 million when excluding the accounts payable and accrued liabilities acquired through business acquisitions of $20.5 million in 2021 compared to a decrease of $58.1 million in 2020. The increase in 2021 resulted primarily from increased inventory purchasing activity and higher incentive accruals. The decrease in 2020 resulted primarily from reduced inventory purchasing activity as the Corporation managed the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on customer demand and supply chains.

Investing Activities
For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Corporation used $62.6 million of cash in investing activities compared to using $17.6 million in 2020. Wajax invested $5.9 million in property, plant and equipment additions, compared to $6.5 million in 2020. Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment, consisting primarily of proceeds on disposal of properties, amounted to $17.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, compared to $9.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. For the year ended December 31, 2021, Wajax invested $75.4 million towards business acquisitions, compared to $17.9 million towards business acquisitions, in the same period of 2020.

Financing Activities
For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Corporation used $124.2 million of cash in financing activities compared to using $97.7 million in 2020. Financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2021 included a net bank credit facility repayment of $73.0 million (2020 – net repayment of $54.4 million), the payment of lease liabilities of $28.9 million (2020 – $22.9 million) and dividends paid to shareholders of $21.1 million (2020 – $20.0 million).

Dividends

Dividends to shareholders for the 2021 and 2020 years were declared and payable to shareholders of record as follows:

On March 7, 2022, the Corporation declared a dividend of $0.25 per share for the first quarter of 2022 payable on April 5, 2022 to shareholders of record on March 15, 2022.

Fourth Quarter Consolidated Results

Revenue

Revenue in the fourth quarter of 2021 increased 5.7%, or $21.8 million, to $402.8 million from $381.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2020. In addition to regional revenue commentary provided previously herein, the following factors contributed to the increase in revenue:

• Industrial parts revenue has increased due primarily to the acquisition of Tundra in western Canada effective January 22, 2021, and organic strength in bearings sales in eastern Canada.
• ERS revenue has increased due primarily to the acquisition of Tundra in western Canada.
• Equipment sales have decreased due primarily to lower mining sales in western Canada and lower construction & forestry sales in all regions. These decreases were offset partially by higher power systems sales in eastern Canada.

Backlog
The Corporation's backlog at December 31, 2021 of $419.1 million increased $47.5 million, or 12.8%, compared to September 30, 2021  due primarily to higher construction and forestry orders and higher industrial parts orders. "Backlog" does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP. See the Non-GAAP and Additional GAAP Measures section.

Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS)
During the fourth quarter, the Corporation did not recognize any reimbursement of compensation expense from the CEWS program. During the same quarter last year, the Corporation qualified for the CEWS and recognized $5.7 million as a reimbursement of compensation expense with $4.4 million and $1.3 million, respectively, allocated to cost of sales and selling and administrative expenses in proportion to personnel costs recorded in those areas.

Gross profit
Gross profit increased $12.7 million, or 18.4%, in the fourth quarter of 2021 compared to the same quarter last year due to higher volumes and margins, and a higher proportion of industrial parts and ERS sales compared to equipment sales. These increases were offset partially by the prior year recovery of personnel expenses from the CEWS program without a similar recovery in the current year.

Gross profit margin of 20.3% in the fourth quarter of 2021 increased 2.2% compared to gross profit margin of 18.1% in 2020. Excluding the CEWS recoveries in the fourth quarter of last year of $4.4 million, gross profit margin in the fourth quarter of 2021 increased 3.3% compared to the gross profit margin of 17.0% in 2020. The increase in margin was driven primarily by higher equipment and parts margins, and a higher proportion of industrial parts and ERS sales compared to equipment sales.

Selling and administrative expenses
Selling and administrative expenses in the fourth quarter of 2021 increased $16.2 million compared to the fourth quarter of 2020 due mainly to additional selling and administrative expenses related to Tundra of $5.9 million, higher incentive compensation of $4.0 million due primarily to improved financial results in 2021, a prior year $1.3 million recovery of personnel expenses from the CEWS program without a similar recovery in the current year, professional fees related to environmental remediation of $1.0 million in the quarter, and amortization expense of $0.7 million in the quarter relating to intangible assets recognized for the Tundra acquisition. Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue increased to 16.5% in the fourth quarter of 2021 from 13.2% in the fourth quarter of 2020. Excluding the CEWS recoveries in the fourth quarter of last year of $1.3 million, selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue increased from 13.5% in the fourth quarter last year to 16.5% in the fourth quarter of 2021.

Finance costs
Finance costs of $4.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2021 increased $0.4 million compared to the same quarter last year due primarily to the capitalization of $0.9 million of borrowing costs in the fourth quarter of last year without a similar capitalization in the fourth quarter of 2021, offset partially by lower average borrowings under the bank credit facility. See the Liquidity and Capital Resources section.

Income tax expense
The Corporation's effective income tax rate of 26.4% for the fourth quarter of 2021 was higher compared to the statutory rate of 26.2% due mainly to the impact of expenses not deductible for tax purposes. The Corporation's effective income tax rate of 27.4% for the fourth quarter of 2020 was higher compared to the statutory rate of 26.5% due mainly to the impact of expenses not deductible for tax purposes.

Net earnings
In the fourth quarter of 2021, the Corporation had net earnings of $8.0 million, or $0.37 per share, compared to $10.7 million, or $0.53 per share, in the fourth quarter of 2020. The $2.7 million decrease in net earnings resulted primarily from higher selling and administrative expenses, partially offset by higher volumes and margins, and a higher proportion of industrial parts and ERS sales compared to equipment sales.

Adjusted net earnings (See the Non-GAAP and Additional GAAP Measures section)
Adjusted net earnings for the three months ended December 31, 2021 excludes a gain recorded on the sale of properties of $1.2 million after-tax, or $0.06 per share (2020 – gain of $1.0 million after-tax, or $0.05 per share), and non-cash losses on mark to market of derivative instruments of $0.2 million after-tax, or $0.01 per share (2020 – gains of $0.9 million after-tax, or $0.04 per share). Adjusted net earnings in 2020 also excludes Tundra transaction costs of $0.8 million after-tax, or $0.04 per share.

As such, adjusted net earnings decreased $2.6 million to $7.0 million, or $0.33 per share, in the fourth quarter of 2021 from $9.6 million, or $0.48 per share, in 2020.

Comprehensive income
Total comprehensive income of $9.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2021 included net earnings of $8.0 million and an other comprehensive gain of $1.1 million. The other comprehensive gain of $1.1 million in the current period resulted primarily from $0.8 million of gains on derivative instruments outstanding at the end of the period designated as cash flow hedges.

Fourth Quarter Cash Flows

Cash Flow

The following table highlights the major components of cash flow for the quarters ended December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020:

Operating Activities
Cash flows generated from operating activities amounted to $36.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2021, compared to $48.1 million in the same quarter of the previous year. The decrease of $12.0 million was mainly attributable to a decrease in cash generated from changes in non-cash operating working capital of $11.1 million. The decrease  in cash generated from changes in non-cash operating working capital of $11.1 million was driven primarily by a decrease in cash generated from changes in inventory of $52.3 million, offset partially by a decrease in cash used in changes in accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $18.0 million, an increase in cash generated from changes in contract liabilities of $5.3 million, and a decrease in cash used in changes in provisions of $4.7 million, and an increase in cash generated from changes in contract assets of $8.9 million.

Rental equipment additions in the fourth quarter of 2021 of $2.3 million (2020 – $1.6 million) related to material handling lift trucks.

Changes in significant components of non-cash operating working capital for the quarters ended December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 include the following:

Significant components of the changes in non-cash operating working capital for the quarter ended December 31, 2021 compared to the quarter ended December 31, 2020 are as follows:

• Contract assets decreased $9.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2021 compared to a decrease of $0.3 million in the same period of 2020. The decrease in the fourth quarter of 2021 resulted primarily from lower work-in-progress that had not yet been billed as compared to the previous quarter.
  
  
• Inventory increased $19.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2021 compared to a decrease of $32.5 million in 2020. The increase in the fourth quarter of 2021 was largely due to the previously announced purchase by the Corporation of all construction-class excavator consignment inventory on hand. See the Annual and Fourth Quarter Highlights section, as well as the Corporation's press release dated November 1, 2021. The decrease in the fourth quarter of 2020 was due to lower equipment, parts and work-in-process inventory in most categories as the Corporation managed its inventory levels in response to the impacts of the pandemic on customer demand and supply chains. These decreases were partially offset by higher mining equipment inventory.
  
  
• Accounts payable and accrued liabilities increased $13.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2021 compared to a decrease of $4.3 million in 2020. The increase in the fourth quarter of 2021 resulted primarily from higher supplier payables with extended terms due to larger forestry equipment purchases from a major supplier in the fourth quarter as compared to the previous quarter, and higher incentive accruals. The decrease in 2020 resulted primarily from lower trade payables.

Investing Activities
The Corporation generated $0.9 million of cash in investing activities in the fourth quarter of 2021 compared to cash used in investing activities of $1.4 million in the same quarter of 2020. Wajax invested $1.6 million in property, plant and equipment additions, compared to $2.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2020. Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment, consisting primarily of proceeds on disposal of properties, amounted to $2.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2021, compared to $3.2 million in the same quarter of the previous year.

Financing Activities
The Corporation used $33.8 million of cash in financing activities in the fourth quarter of 2021 compared to cash used in financing activities of $38.4 million in the same quarter of 2020. Financing activities in the quarter included a net bank credit facility repayment of $20.1 million (2020 – net repayment of $27.1 million), the payment of lease liabilities of $7.8 million (2020 – $6.2 million), and dividends paid to shareholders of $5.4 million (2020 – $5.0 million).

Critical Accounting Estimates

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses. Critical accounting estimates are those that require management to make assumptions about matters that are highly uncertain at the time the estimate or assumption is made. Critical accounting estimates are also those that could potentially have a material impact on the Corporation's financial results were a different estimate or assumption used.

Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. These estimates and assumptions are subject to change at any time based on experience and new information. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the estimates are revised and in any future periods affected.

On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared the novel coronavirus a global pandemic. With the majority of governments and public health authorities worldwide enacting emergency measures to combat the spread of the novel coronavirus and its variants, any estimate of the length and severity of these developments is therefore subject to significant uncertainty, and accordingly estimates of the extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic may materially and adversely affect the Corporation's operations, financial results and condition in future periods are also subject to significant uncertainty. Therefore, uncertainty about judgements, estimates and assumptions made by management during the preparation of the Corporation's consolidated financial statements related to the potential impacts of the COVID-19 outbreak on revenue, expenses, assets, liabilities, and note disclosures could result in a material adjustment to the carrying value of the asset or liability affected.

The key assumptions concerning the future and other key sources of estimation uncertainty that have a significant risk of resulting in a material adjustment to the carrying amount of assets and liabilities within the next fiscal year are as follows:

Allowance for credit losses
The Corporation is exposed to credit risk with respect to its trade and other receivables, and COVID-19 has increased the measurement uncertainty with respect to the determination of the allowance for expected credit losses. However, this is partially mitigated by the Corporation's diversified customer base of over 32,000 customers, with no one customer accounting for more than 10% of the Corporation's annual consolidated sales, which covers many business sectors across Canada. In addition, the Corporation's customer base spans large public companies, small independent contractors, original equipment manufacturers and various levels of government. The Corporation follows a program of credit evaluations of customers and limits the amount of credit extended when deemed necessary. The Corporation maintains an allowance for possible credit losses, and any such losses to date have been within management's expectations. The allowance for credit losses is determined by estimating the lifetime expected credit losses, taking into account the Corporation's past experience of collecting payments as well as observable changes in and forecasts of future economic conditions that correlate with default on receivables. At the point when the Corporation is satisfied that no recovery of the amount owing is possible, the amount is considered not recoverable and the financial asset is written off. The $1.1 million allowance for credit losses at December 31, 2021 decreased $2.5 million from $3.6 million at December 31, 2020. As economic conditions change, there is risk that the Corporation could experience a greater number of defaults compared to prior periods which would result in an increased charge to earnings.

Inventory obsolescence
The value of the Corporation's new and used equipment and high value parts are evaluated by management throughout the year, on a unit-by-unit basis considering projected customer demand, future market conditions, and other considerations evaluated by management. When required, provisions are recorded to ensure that the book value of equipment and parts are valued at the lower of cost or estimated net realizable value. The Corporation performs an aging analysis to identify slow moving or obsolete lower value parts inventory and estimates appropriate obsolescence provisions related thereto. The Corporation takes advantage of supplier programs that allow for the return of eligible parts for credit within specified time periods. The inventory obsolescence impact on earnings for the three months ended December 31, 2021 was a charge of $2.9 million (2020 – charge of $1.7 million) and for the year ended December 31, 2021 was a charge of $3.2 million (2020 – charge of $7.1 million). As economic conditions change, there is risk that the Corporation could have an increase in inventory obsolescence compared to prior periods which would result in an increased charge to earnings.

Acquisition accounting, goodwill and intangible assets
For acquisition accounting purposes, all identifiable assets and liabilities acquired in a business acquisition are recognized at fair value at the date of acquisition. Estimates and assumptions are used to calculate the fair value of these assets and liabilities. Changes to assumptions could significantly impact the fair values of certain assets, such as intangible assets like customer relationships and brands. The Corporation's significant assumptions used in determining the acquisition date fair value of intangible assets include projected revenues and cash flows attributable to acquired intangible assets, customer attrition rates, discount rates, royalty rates, and estimations of useful life.

The value in use of goodwill and intangible assets has been estimated using the forecasts prepared by management for the next five years. The key assumptions for the estimate are those regarding revenue growth, EBITDA margin, tax rates, discount rates and the level of working capital required to support the business. These estimates are based on past experience and management's expectations of future changes in the market and forecasted growth initiatives.

Unanticipated changes in management's assumptions or estimates could materially affect the determination of the fair value of the Corporation and therefore, could reduce or eliminate the excess of fair value over the carrying value of the Corporation and could potentially result in an impairment charge in the future.

During the year, the Corporation performed an annual impairment test, based on value in use, of its goodwill and intangible assets with an indefinite life based on its single cash generating unit group and concluded that no impairment existed.

Lease term of contracts with renewal options 
The lease term is defined as the non-cancellable term of the lease, including any periods covered by a renewal option to extend the lease if it is reasonably certain that the renewal option will be exercised, or any periods covered by an option to terminate the lease, if it is reasonably certain that the termination option will not be exercised.

Judgement is used when evaluating whether the Corporation is reasonably certain that the lease renewal option will be exercised, including examining any factors that may provide an economic incentive for renewal. In the event of a significant event within the Corporation's control that could affect its ability to exercise the renewal option, the lease term will be reassessed.

Changes in Accounting Policies

During the year, the Corporation did not adopt any new accounting standards or amendments that had an impact on the Corporation's consolidated financial statements.

Accounting standards and amendments issued but not yet adopted

• Amendments to IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements (effective January 1, 2023) clarify the classification of liabilities as current or non-current. For the purposes of non-current classification, the amendments remove the requirement for a right to defer settlement of a liability for at least twelve months to be unconditional. Instead, such a right must have substance and exist at the end of the reporting period in order to qualify for non-current classification. Management is currently assessing the impact of adopting these amendments on its financial statements.

Risk Management and Uncertainties

As with most businesses, the Corporation is subject to a number of marketplace and industry related risks and uncertainties which could have a material impact on operating results and the Corporation's ability to pay cash dividends to shareholders. The Corporation attempts to minimize many of these risks through diversification of core businesses and through the geographic diversity of its operations. In addition, the Corporation has adopted an annual enterprise risk management assessment which is prepared by senior management and overseen by the Board of Directors and committees of the Board of Directors. The enterprise risk management framework sets out principles and tools for identifying, evaluating, prioritizing and managing risk effectively and consistently across the Corporation.

The following are a number of risks that deserve particular comment:

COVID-19
On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic. COVID-19's impact on global markets has been significant and as the situation continues to evolve, the full magnitude of its effects on the economy and on the Corporation's financial and operational performance is uncertain.

The coronavirus pandemic and the measures implemented to stop the spread of COVID-19 have had an effect on the Corporation, most significantly in 2020. The Corporation will continue to closely monitor the COVID-19 situation. Should the duration, spread or intensity of the pandemic further develop, the Corporation's supply chain, market pricing and customer demand could be affected. These factors may further impact the Corporation's operating plan, its liquidity and cash flows, and the valuation of its long-lived assets.

Manufacturer relationships and product access
Wajax seeks to distribute leading product lines in each of its regional markets and its success is dependent upon continuing relations with the manufacturers it represents. Wajax endeavours to align itself in long-term relationships with manufacturers that are committed to achieving a competitive advantage and long-term market leadership in their targeted market segments. In equipment and certain industrial categories, manufacturer relationships are governed through effectively exclusive distribution agreements. Distribution agreements are typically multi-year terms and are cancellable by Wajax or the manufacturer based on a notification period specified in the agreement. Although Wajax enjoys good relationships with its major manufacturers and seeks to develop additional strong long-term partnerships, a loss of a major product line without a comparable replacement would have a significant adverse effect on Wajax's results of operations or cash flow.

There is a continuing consolidation trend among industrial equipment and component manufacturers. Consolidation may impact the products distributed by Wajax, in either a favourable or unfavourable manner. Consolidation of manufacturers may have a negative impact on the results of operations or cash flow if product lines Wajax distributes become unavailable as a result of the consolidation.

Suppliers generally have the ability to unilaterally change distribution terms and conditions, product lines or limit supply of product in times of intense market demand. Supplier changes in the area of product pricing and availability can have a negative or positive effect on Wajax's revenue and margins. A change in one of a supplier's product lines can result in conflicts with another supplier's product lines that may have a negative impact on the results of operations or cash flow if one of the suppliers cancels its distribution with Wajax due to the conflict. As well, from time to time suppliers make changes to payment terms for distributors. This may affect Wajax's interest-free payment period which may have a materially negative or positive impact on working capital balances such as cash, inventory, deposits on inventory, trade and other payables and bank debt.

Economic conditions/Business cyclicality
Wajax's customer base consists of businesses operating in the natural resources, construction, transportation, manufacturing, industrial processing and utilities industries. These industries can be capital intensive and cyclical in nature, and as a result, customer demand for Wajax's products and services may be affected by economic conditions at both a global or local level. Changes in interest rates, consumer and business confidence, corporate profits, credit conditions, foreign exchange, commodity prices and the level of government infrastructure spending may influence Wajax's customers' operating, maintenance and capital spending, and therefore Wajax's sales and results of operations. Although Wajax has attempted to address its exposure to business and industry cyclicality by diversifying its operations by geography, product offerings and customer base, there can be no assurance that Wajax's results of operations or cash flows will not be adversely affected by changes in economic conditions.

Commodity prices
Many of Wajax's customers are directly and indirectly affected by fluctuations in commodity prices in the forestry, metals and minerals and petroleum and natural gas industries, and as a result Wajax is also indirectly affected by fluctuations in these prices. In particular, each of Wajax's products and services categories are exposed to fluctuations in the price of oil and natural gas. A downward change in commodity prices, and particularly in the price of oil and natural gas, could therefore adversely affect Wajax's results of operations or cash flows.

Growth initiatives, integration of acquisitions and project execution
The Corporation's Strategic Plan establishes priorities for organic growth, acquisitions and operating infrastructure, including maintaining a target leverage ratio range of 1.5 - 2.0 times unless a leverage ratio outside this range is required either to support key growth initiatives or fluctuations in working capital levels during changes in economic cycles. The Corporation may also maintain a leverage ratio above the stated range as a result of investment in significant acquisitions and may fund those acquisitions using its bank credit facilities and other debt instruments in accordance with the Corporation's expectations of total future cash flows, financing costs and other factors. See the Strategic Direction and Outlook section and the Non-GAAP and Additional GAAP Measures sections. While end market conditions remain challenging, the Corporation believes it has a robust strategy and is confident in its growth prospects. The Corporation's confidence is strengthened by the enhanced earnings potential of the One Wajax model and by relationships with its customers and vendors. Wajax's ability to develop its core capabilities and successfully grow its business through organic growth will be dependent on achieving the individual growth initiatives. Wajax's ability to successfully grow its business through acquisitions will be dependent on a number of factors including: identification of accretive new business or acquisition opportunities; negotiation of purchase agreements on satisfactory terms and prices; prior approval of acquisitions by third parties, including any necessary regulatory approvals; securing attractive financing arrangements; and integration of newly acquired operations into the existing business. All of these activities associated with growing the business, realizing enhanced earnings potential from the One Wajax structure and investments made in systems may be more difficult to implement or may take longer to execute than management anticipates. Further, any significant expansion of the business may increase the operating complexity of Wajax, and divert management away from regular business activities. Any failure of Wajax to successfully manage its growth strategy, including acquisitions, could have a material adverse impact on Wajax's business, results of operations or financial condition.

Key personnel
The success of Wajax is largely dependent on the abilities and experience of its senior management team and other key personnel. Its future performance will also depend on its ability to attract, develop and retain highly qualified employees in all areas of its business. Competition for skilled management, sales and technical personnel is intense, particularly in certain markets where Wajax competes. Wajax continuously reviews and makes adjustments to its hiring, training and compensation practices in an effort to attract and retain a highly competent workforce. There can be no assurance, however, that Wajax will be successful in its efforts and a loss of key employees, or failure to attract and retain new talent as needed, may have an adverse impact on Wajax's current operations or future prospects.

Leverage, credit availability and restrictive covenants
Wajax has a $450.0 million bank credit facility, of which $400.0 million matures October 1, 2026 and $50.0 million matures December 30, 2022. The bank credit facility contains restrictive covenants which place restrictions on, among other things, the ability of Wajax to encumber or dispose of its assets, the amount of finance costs incurred and dividends declared relative to earnings and certain reporting obligations. A failure to comply with the obligations of the facility could result in an event of default which, if not cured or waived, could require an accelerated repayment of the facility. There can be no assurance that Wajax's assets would be sufficient to repay the facility in full.

Wajax's short-term normal course working capital requirements can swing widely quarter-to-quarter due to timing of large inventory purchases and/or sales and changes in market activity. In general, as Wajax experiences growth, there is a need for additional working capital. Conversely, as Wajax experiences economic slowdowns, working capital reduces reflecting the lower activity levels. While management believes the bank credit facility will be adequate to meet the Corporation's normal course working capital requirements, maintenance capital requirements and certain strategic investments, there can be no assurance that additional credit will become available if required, or that an appropriate amount of credit with comparable terms and conditions will be available when the bank credit facility matures.

Wajax may be required to access the equity or debt markets or reduce dividends in order to fund significant acquisitions and growth related working capital and capital expenditures. The amount of debt service obligations under the bank credit facility will be dependent on the level of borrowings and fluctuations in interest rates to the extent the rate is unhedged. As a result, fluctuations in debt servicing costs may have a detrimental effect on future earnings or cash flow.

Wajax also has credit lines available with other financial institutions for purposes of financing inventory. These facilities are not committed lines and their future availability cannot be assured, which may have a negative impact on cash available for dividends and future growth opportunities.

Quality of products distributed
The ability of Wajax to maintain and expand its customer base is dependent upon the ability of the manufacturers represented by Wajax to sustain or improve the quality of their products. The quality and reputation of such products are not within Wajax's control, and there can be no assurance that manufacturers will be successful in meeting these goals. The failure of these manufacturers to maintain a market presence could adversely affect Wajax's results of operations or cash flow.

Inventory obsolescence
Wajax maintains substantial amounts of inventory in its business operations. While Wajax believes it has appropriate inventory management systems in place, variations in market demand for the products it sells can result in certain items of inventory becoming obsolete. This could result in a requirement for Wajax to take a material write down of its inventory balance resulting in Wajax not being able to realize expected revenue and cash flows from its inventory, which would negatively affect results from operations or cash flow.

Government regulation
Wajax's business is subject to evolving laws and government regulations, particularly in the areas of taxation, the environment, and health and safety. Changes to such laws and regulations may impose additional costs on Wajax and may adversely affect its business in other ways, including requiring additional compliance measures by Wajax.

Insurance
Wajax maintains a program of insurance coverage that is comparable to those maintained by similar businesses, including property, general liability, directors and officers liability, and cyber security insurance. Although the limits and self-insured retentions of such insurance policies have been established through risk analysis and the recommendations of professional advisors, there can be no assurance that such insurance will remain available to Wajax at commercially reasonable rates or that the amount of such coverage will be adequate to cover all liability incurred by Wajax. If Wajax is held liable for amounts exceeding the limits of its insurance coverage or for claims outside the scope of that coverage, its business, results of operations or financial condition could be adversely affected.

Information systems and technology
Information systems are an integral part of Wajax's business processes, including marketing of equipment and support services, inventory and logistics, and finance. Some of these systems are integrated with certain suppliers' core processes and systems. Any disruptions to these systems or new systems due to, for example, the upgrade or conversion thereof, or the failure of these systems or new systems to operate as expected could, depending on the magnitude of the problem, adversely affect Wajax's operating results by limiting the ability to effectively monitor and control Wajax's operations.

Credit risk
Wajax extends credit to its customers, generally on an unsecured basis. Although Wajax is not substantially dependent on any one customer and it has a system of credit management in place, the loss of a large receivable would have an adverse effect on Wajax's profitability.

Labour relations
Wajax had approximately 2,800 employees as at December 31, 2021. At the outset of 2021, Wajax was party to thirteen collective agreements covering approximately 273 employees. During 2021, five collective agreements covering 145 employees were ratified and one collective agreement covering 25 employees with an expiration date in 2021 was extended upon mutual agreement between the Corporation and union for a one-year term to 2022. Four agreements covering 65 employees expire in 2022. Five agreements covering 122 employees expire in 2023. Three agreements covering 102 employees expire in 2024. One agreement covering 8 employees expires in 2025. As at December 31, 2021, Wajax was party to 13 collective agreements covering a total of 297 employees. Wajax believes its labour relations to be satisfactory and does not anticipate it will be unable to renew the collective agreements. If Wajax is unable to renew or negotiate collective agreements from time to time, it could result in work stoppages and other labour disturbances. The failure to renew collective agreements upon satisfactory terms could have a material adverse impact on Wajax's business, results of operations or financial condition.

Foreign exchange exposure
Wajax's operating results are reported in Canadian dollars. While the majority of Wajax's sales are in Canadian dollars, significant portions of its purchases are in U.S. dollars. Changes in the U.S. dollar exchange rate can have a negative or positive impact on Wajax's revenue, margins and working capital balances. Wajax mitigates certain exchange rate risks by entering into foreign exchange forward contracts to fix the cost of certain inbound inventory and to hedge certain foreign-currency denominated sales to customers. In addition, Wajax will periodically institute price increases to offset the negative impact of foreign exchange rate increases on imported goods. The inability of Wajax to mitigate exchange rate risks or increase prices to offset foreign exchange rate increases, including sudden and volatile changes in the U.S. dollar exchange rate, may have a material adverse effect on the results of operations or financial condition of Wajax.

A declining U.S. dollar relative to the Canadian dollar can have a negative effect on Wajax's revenue and cash flows as a result of certain products being imported from the U.S. In some cases market conditions require Wajax to lower its selling prices as the U.S. dollar declines. As well, many of Wajax's customers export products to the U.S., and a strengthening Canadian dollar can negatively impact their overall competitiveness and demand for their products, which in turn may reduce product purchases from Wajax.

A strengthening U.S. dollar relative to the Canadian dollar can have a positive effect on Wajax's revenue, as Wajax will periodically institute price increases on inventory imported from the U.S. to offset the negative impact of foreign exchange rate increases to ensure margins are not eroded. However, a sudden strengthening U.S. dollar relative to the Canadian dollar can have a negative impact mainly on parts margins in the short-term prior to price increases taking effect.

Wajax maintains a hedging policy whereby significant transactional currency risks are identified and hedged.

Interest rate risk
Wajax has exposure to interest rate fluctuations on its interest-bearing financial liabilities, in particular from its long-term debt. Changes in interest rates can have a negative or positive impact on Wajax's finance costs and cash flows. Wajax monitors the proportion of variable rate debt to its total debt portfolio and may enter into interest rate swap contracts to mitigate all or a portion of the interest rate risk on its variable rate debt. The inability of Wajax to mitigate interest rate risks to offset interest rate increases may have a material adverse effect on the results of operations or financial condition of Wajax.

Equity price risk
Certain share-based compensation plans of the Corporation, and the resulting liabilities, are exposed to fluctuations in the Corporation's share price. Changes in the Corporation's share price can have a positive or negative impact on Wajax's net earnings and cash flows. Wajax monitors the proportion of MTIP rights that are cash-settled and may enter into total return swap contracts to mitigate a portion of the equity price risk on these MTIP rights. The inability of Wajax to mitigate equity price risks to offset fluctuations in its share price may have a material adverse effect on the results of operations or financial condition of Wajax.

Competition
The categories in which Wajax participates are highly competitive and include competitors who are national, regional and local. Competitors can be grouped into three classifications:

Capital Equipment Dealers and Distributors - these competitors typically represent a major alternative manufacturer and provide sales, product support, rental, financing and other services in categories such as construction, forestry, mining and power generation. Examples include the regional dealer and distributor networks of Caterpillar, Komatsu, John Deere and Cummins. Competition is based on product range and quality, aftermarket support and price.

Industrial Parts Distributors - these competitors typically represent a broad range of industrial parts manufacturers and offer sales and, in many cases, product support services including design, assembly and repair. Competitive product range varies from focused on specific applications (e.g., hydraulics) to very broad (similar to Wajax). Competitors can be local, regional and national. Competition is based on brand access, product quality, customer service levels, price and ancillary services.

Aftermarket Service Providers - these competitors provide aftermarket services in areas such as on-highway transportation. Competitors vary from the dealer and distributor networks of manufacturers such as Freightliner and Western Star to local service providers. Competition is based on customer service levels and price.

There can be no assurance that Wajax will be able to continue to effectively compete. Increased competitive pressures, the growing influence of online distribution or the inability of Wajax to maintain the factors which have enhanced its competitive position could adversely affect its results of operations or cash flow.

Litigation and product liability claims
In the ordinary course of its business, Wajax may be made a party to various legal actions, the outcome of which cannot be predicted with certainty. One category of potential legal actions is product liability claims. Wajax carries product liability insurance, and management believes that this insurance is adequate to protect against potential product liability claims. Not all risks, however, are covered by insurance, and no assurance can be given that insurance will be consistently available, or will be consistently available on an economically feasible basis, or that the amounts of insurance will at all times be sufficient to cover each and every loss or claim that may occur involving Wajax's assets or operations.

Guaranteed residual value, recourse and buy-back contracts
In some circumstances Wajax makes certain guarantees to finance providers on behalf of its customers. These guarantees can take the form of assuring the resale value of equipment, guaranteeing a portion of customer lease payments, or agreeing to buy back the equipment at a specified price. These contracts are subject to certain conditions being met by the customer, such as maintaining the equipment in good working condition. Historically, Wajax has not incurred substantial losses on these types of contracts, however, there can be no assurance that losses will not be incurred in the future.

Future warranty claims
Wajax provides manufacturers' and/or dealer warranties for most of the product it sells. In some cases, the product warranty claim risk is shared jointly with the manufacturer. In addition, Wajax provides limited warranties for workmanship on services provided. Accordingly, Wajax has some liability for warranty claims. There is a risk that a possible product quality erosion or a lack of a skilled workforce could increase warranty claims in the future, or may be greater than management anticipates. If Wajax's liability in respect of such claims is greater than anticipated, it may have a material adverse impact on Wajax's business, results of operations or financial condition.

Maintenance and repair contracts
Wajax frequently enters into long-term maintenance and repair contracts with its customers, whereby Wajax is obligated to maintain certain fleets of equipment at various negotiated performance levels. The length of these contracts varies significantly, often ranging up to five or more years. The contracts are generally fixed price, although many contracts have additional provisions for inflationary adjustments. Due to the long-term nature of these contracts, there is a risk that significant cost overruns may be incurred. If Wajax has miscalculated the extent of maintenance work required, or if actual parts and service costs increase beyond the contracted inflationary adjustments, the contract profitability will be adversely affected. In order to mitigate this risk, Wajax closely monitors the contracts for early warning signs of cost overruns. In addition, the manufacturer may, in certain circumstances, share in the cost overruns if profitability falls below a certain threshold. Any failure by Wajax to effectively price and manage these contracts could have a material adverse impact on Wajax's business, results of operations or financial condition.

Environmental factors
From time to time, Wajax experiences environmental incidents, emissions or spills in the course of its normal business activities. Wajax has established environmental compliance and monitoring programs, including an internal compliance audit function, which management believes are appropriate for its operations. In addition, Wajax retains environmental engineering consultants to conduct the following activities: environmental site assessments prior to the acquisition or occupation by Wajax; ongoing monitoring of soil and groundwater contamination; and remediation of contaminated sites. There can be no assurance that any future incidents, emissions or spills will not result in a material adverse effect on Wajax's results of operations or cash flows. Management is not aware of any material environmental concerns for which a provision has not been recorded.

Cyber security
Wajax's business relies on information technology including third party service providers, to process, transmit and store electronic information including that related to customers, vendors and employees. A breach in the security of the Corporation's information technology, or that of its third party service providers, could expose the business to a risk of loss, misuse of confidential information and/or business interruption.

The Corporation has general security controls in place, including security tools, and reviews security internally and with the assistance of a third party. In addition, the Corporation has policies in place regarding security over confidential customer, vendor and employee information, performs employee security training, and has recovery plans in place in the event of a cyber-attack.

Despite such security controls, there is no assurance that cyber security threats can be fully detected, prevented or mitigated. Should such threats materialize and depending on the magnitude of the problem, they could have a material impact on Wajax's business, results of operations or financial condition.

Disclosure Controls and Procedures and Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Wajax's management, under the supervision of its Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") and Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), is responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures ("DC&P") and internal control over financial reporting ("ICFR").

As at December 31, 2021, Wajax's management, under the supervision of its CEO and CFO, had designed DC&P to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by Wajax in annual filings, interim filings or other reports filed or submitted under applicable securities legislation is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in such securities legislation. DC&P are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by Wajax in annual filings, interim filings or other reports filed or submitted under applicable securities legislation is accumulated and communicated to Wajax's management, including its CEO and CFO, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

As at December 31, 2021, Wajax's management, under the supervision of its CEO and CFO, had designed ICFR to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with IFRS. In completing the design, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in its 2013 version of Internal Control – Integrated Framework. With regard to general controls over information technology, management also used the set of practices of Control Objectives for Information and related Technology created by the IT Governance Institute.

During the year, Wajax's management, under the supervision of its CEO and CFO, evaluated the effectiveness and operation of its DC&P and ICFR. This evaluation included a risk evaluation, documentation of key processes and tests of effectiveness conducted on a sample basis throughout the year. Due to the inherent limitations in all control systems, an evaluation of the DC&P and ICFR can only provide reasonable assurance over the effectiveness of the controls. As a result, DC&P and ICFR are not expected to prevent and detect all misstatements due to error or fraud. The CEO and CFO have concluded that Wajax's DC&P and ICFR were effective as at December 31, 2021.

The Corporation has excluded from its evaluation the ICFR of Tundra, which was acquired effective January 22, 2021, as discussed in Note 5 of the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes for the period ended December 31, 2021. The total revenue subject to Tundra's ICFR represented 7.7% of the Corporation's consolidated total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2021. The total assets subject to Tundra's ICFR represented 6.0% of the Corporation's consolidated total assets as at December 31, 2021.

Non-GAAP and Additional GAAP Measures

The MD&A contains certain non-GAAP and additional GAAP measures that do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP. Therefore, these financial measures may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Investors are cautioned that these measures should not be construed as an alternative to net earnings or to cash flow from operating, investing, and financing activities determined in accordance with GAAP as indicators of the Corporation's performance. The Corporation's management believes that:

Non-GAAP financial measures are identified and defined below:

Reconciliation of the Corporation's net earnings to adjusted net earnings and adjusted basic and diluted earnings per share is as follows:

Reconciliation of the Corporation's net earnings to EBT, EBIT, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Pro-forma adjusted EBITDA is as follows:

Calculation of the Corporation's funded net debt, debt, leverage ratio and senior secured leverage ratio is as follows:

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This MD&A contains certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information, as defined in applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). These forward-looking statements relate to future events or the Corporation's future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "anticipates", "intends", "predicts", "expects", "is expected", "scheduled", "believes", "estimates", "projects" or "forecasts", or variations of, or the negatives of, such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "should", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors beyond the Corporation's ability to predict or control which may cause actual results, performance and achievements to differ materially from those anticipated or implied in such forward-looking statements. To the extent any forward-looking information in this MD&A constitutes future-oriented financial information or financial outlook within the meaning of applicable securities law, such information is being provided to demonstrate the potential of the Corporation and readers are cautioned that this information may not be appropriate for any other purpose. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking statement will materialize. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this MD&A are made as of the date of this MD&A, reflect management's current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management. Although management believes that the expectations represented in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, there is no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Specifically, this MD&A includes forward looking statements regarding, among other things, the main elements of our One Wajax strategy, including our focus on executing clear plans in five key areas: (1) investments in our team and putting people first, (2) investments in our customers and creating a differentiated customer experience, (3) executing a clear organic growth strategy, (4) our accretive acquisition strategy, and (5) investments in our infrastructure; our plans to meet our long-term sustainability goals by continuing to focus on and develop our environmental, social and governance programs; our belief that our rebound from the challenges we faced in 2020, combined with our strengthened balance sheet and expanded product and service offerings, positions us ideally to grow in 2022 and beyond; our belief that, as we move further into 2022, we are seeing sound fundamentals in many of our key markets, bolstered by improving commodity prices and increased capital spending, and that this positive view of the market will be counterbalanced by the unpredictable COVID-19 pandemic and related supply chain issues; our expectation that supply chain issues will be a factor throughout 2022, particularly in our heavy equipment business, and our plans to manage these challenges through frequent dialogue with key suppliers and customers, pre-ordering new equipment, and utilizing repairs and rebuilds to extend the service life of equipment; our belief that our improved balance sheet and record start-of-year backlog shows momentum in our business; our plans to maintain such momentum and increase shareholder value by focusing on the following priorities: investing in our people and their safety, delivering exceptional customer experiences, organically growing our business, building our acquisition pipeline, supporting our closer relationship with Hitachi, prudently managing our balance sheet, deploying our ERP and remote diagnostic systems, and building sustainability into our business; our belief that our strong balance sheet, ability to generate cash flow and abundant growth opportunities will allow our business to grow meaningfully over the long-term; the planned expansion of our Canadian direct distribution relationship with Hitachi effective March 1, 2022, as well as the expected benefits of such expanded relationship, including enhanced access to product development, increased market responsiveness, improved reliability of equipment supply and increased market share; our work with Hitachi on transition planning for our expanded direct distribution relationship, and our continued mutual expectation of significant long-term benefits from such relationship; our continued expectation that our existing credit facilities will be sufficient to support total normal course working capital requirements, including new payment terms for construction-class excavators which took effect March 1, 2022; our expectation that Tundra will continue to provide meaningful growth in our ERS and industrial parts categories; our objective of managing our working capital and normal course capital investment programs within a leverage range of 1.5 – 2.0 times, and to fund such programs through operating cash flow and our bank credit facilities as required; the potential that we may maintain a leverage ratio outside our target range due to changes in economic cycles and investments in acquisitions, and that we may fund acquisitions using bank credit facilities and other debt instruments; our expectation that none of the impact of (1) changes in interest rates (in particular, related to unhedged variable rate debt), (2) a change in foreign currency value, relative to the Canadian dollar, on transactions with customers that include unhedged foreign currency exposures, or (3) a change in Wajax's share price on cash settled MTIP rights, would have a material impact on our results of operations or financial condition over the longer term; our believe that there is no significant risk of non-performance by counterparties to our foreign exchange forward contracts; our belief in the adequacy of our debt capacity and sufficiency of our debt facilities, and our intention and ability to access debt and equity markets or reduce dividends should additional capital be required, including the potential that we may access equity or debt markets to fund significant acquisitions; our financing, working and maintenance capital requirements, as well as our capital structure and leverage ratio; our belief that we have a robust strategy and our confidence in our growth prospects; our belief that our labour relations are satisfactory, and that we will be able to renew our collective agreements; and our belief that our environmental compliance and monitoring programs are appropriate for our operations. These statements are based on a number of assumptions which may prove to be incorrect, including, but not limited to, our ability to successfully manage our business through the COVID-19 pandemic and actions taken by governments, public authorities, suppliers and customers in response to the novel coronavirus and its variants; the ability of Hitachi and Wajax to develop and execute successful sales, marketing and other plans related to the expanded direct distribution relationship announced on August 19, 2021; general business and economic conditions; the supply and demand for, and the level and volatility of prices for, oil, natural gas and other commodities; financial market conditions, including interest rates; our ability to execute our updated Strategic Plan, including our ability to develop our core capabilities, execute on our organic growth priorities, complete and effectively integrate acquisitions, such as Tundra, and to successfully implement new information technology platforms, systems and software, such as our new ERP system; the future financial performance of the Corporation; our costs; market competition; our ability to attract and retain skilled staff; our ability to procure quality products and inventory; and our ongoing relations with suppliers, employees and customers. The foregoing list of assumptions is not exhaustive. Factors that may cause actual results to vary materially include, but are not limited to, the geographic spread and ultimate impact of the COVID-19 virus and its variants, and the duration of the coronavirus pandemic; the duration and severity of travel, business and other restrictions imposed by governments and public authorities in response to COVID-19, as well as other measures that may be taken by such authorities; actions taken by our suppliers and customers in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, including slowing, reducing or halting operations; the inability of Hitachi and Wajax to develop and execute successful sales, marketing and other plans related to their expanded direct distribution relationship; a continued or prolonged deterioration in general business and economic conditions (including as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic); volatility in the supply and demand for, and the level of prices for, oil, natural gas and other commodities; a continued or prolonged decrease in the price of oil or natural gas; fluctuations in financial market conditions, including interest rates; the level of demand for, and prices of, the products and services we offer; levels of customer confidence and spending; market acceptance of the products we offer; termination of distribution or original equipment manufacturer agreements; unanticipated operational difficulties (including failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate in accordance with specifications or expectations, cost escalation, our inability to reduce costs in response to slow-downs in market activity, unavailability of quality products or inventory, supply disruptions (including disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic), job action and unanticipated events related to health, safety and environmental matters); our ability to attract and retain skilled staff and our ability to maintain our relationships with suppliers, employees and customers. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Further information concerning the risks and uncertainties associated with these forward-looking statements and the Corporation's business may be found in this MD&A under the heading "Risk Management and Uncertainties" and in our Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2021 (the "AIF"), and in our annual MD&A for financial risks, each of which have been filed on SEDAR. The forward-looking statements contained in this MD&A are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The Corporation does not undertake any obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise unless so required by applicable securities laws.

Readers are cautioned that the risks described in the AIF, and in our annual MD&A, are not the only risks that could impact the Corporation. We cannot accurately predict the full impact that COVID-19 will have on our business, results of operations, financial condition or the demand for our products and services due to the uncertainties related to the spread of the virus and its variants. Risks and uncertainties not currently known to the Corporation, or currently deemed to be immaterial, may have a material effect on the Corporation's business, financial condition or results of operations.

Additional information, including Wajax's Annual Report, are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

W A J A X   C O R P O R A T IO N
C O N S O L I D A T E D   S T A T E M E N T S   O F
F I N A N C I A L   P O S I T I O N

W A J A X   C O R P O R A T I O N
C O N S O L I D A T E D   S T A T E M E N T S   O F
E A R N I N G S

W A J A X   C O R P O R A T I O N
C O N S O L I D A T E D  S T A T E M E N T S   O F
C O M P R E H E N S I V E   I N C O M E

W A J A X   C O R P O R A T I O N
C O N S O L I D A T E D   S T A T E M E N T   O F
C H A N G E S   I N   S H A R E H O L D E R S '   E Q U I T Y

W A J A X   C O R P O R A T I O N
C O N S O L I D A T E D   S T A T E M E N T   O F
C H A N G E S   I N   S H A R E H O L D E R S '   E Q U I T Y

W A J A X   C O R P O R A T I O N
C O N S O L I D A T E D   S T A T E M E N T S   O F
C A S H   F L O W S

W A J A X    C O R P O R A T I O N
N O T E S   T O   C O N S O L I D A T E D
F I N A N C I A L   S T A T E M E N T S

December 31, 2021
(unaudited, amounts in thousands of Canadian dollars, except share and per share data)

1.    COMPANY PROFILE

Wajax Corporation (the "Corporation") is incorporated in Canada. The address of the Corporation's registered head office is 2250 Argentia Road, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. The Corporation operates an integrated distribution system, providing sales, parts and services to a broad range of customers in diversified sectors of the Canadian economy, including: construction, forestry, mining, industrial and commercial, oil sands, transportation, metal processing, government and utilities, and oil and gas.

2.    BASIS OF PREPARATION

Statement of compliance
These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") as published by the International Accounting Standards Board ("IASB").

These consolidated financial statements were authorized for issue by the Board of Directors on March 7, 2022.

Basis of measurement
These consolidated financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost basis except for derivative financial instruments and share-based payment arrangements that have been measured at fair value. The defined benefit liability is recognized as the net total of the fair value of the plan assets and the present value of the defined benefit obligation.

Functional and presentation currency
These consolidated financial statements are presented in Canadian dollars, which is the Corporation's functional currency. All financial information presented in Canadian dollars has been rounded to the nearest thousand, unless otherwise stated and except share and per share data.

Judgements and estimation uncertainty
The preparation of these consolidated financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts and disclosures made in these consolidated financial statements. Actual results could differ from those judgements, estimates and assumptions. The Corporation bases its estimates on historical experience and various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable in the circumstances.

On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared the novel coronavirus a global pandemic. Since then, the COVID-19 outbreak and related mitigation measures have had an adverse impact on global economic conditions resulting in government response actions, business closures, social distancing and disruptions. The duration of the pandemic and its impact on the Corporation's financial performance and position is an area of judgment and estimation uncertainty, which is continuously monitored and reflected in management's estimates.

The key assumptions concerning the future and other key sources of estimation uncertainty that have a significant risk of resulting in a material adjustment to the carrying amount of assets and liabilities within the next fiscal year are as follows:

Allowance for credit losses
The Corporation is exposed to credit risk with respect to its trade and other receivables, and COVID-19 has increased the measurement uncertainty with respect to the determination of the allowance for expected credit losses. However, this is partially mitigated by the Corporation's diversified customer base which covers many business sectors across Canada. In addition, the Corporation's customer base spans large public companies, small independent contractors, original equipment manufacturers and various levels of government. The Corporation follows a program of credit evaluations of customers and limits the amount of credit extended when deemed necessary. The Corporation maintains an allowance for possible credit losses, and any such losses to date have been within management's expectations. The allowance for credit losses is determined by estimating the lifetime expected credit losses, taking into account the Corporation's past experience of collecting payments as well as observable changes in and forecasts of future economic conditions that correlate with default on receivables. At the point when the Corporation is satisfied that no recovery of the amount owing is possible, the amount is considered not recoverable and the financial asset is written off.

Inventory obsolescence
The value of the Corporation's new and used equipment and high value parts is evaluated by management throughout the year, on a unit-by-unit basis considering projected customer demand, future market conditions, and other considerations evaluated by management. When required, provisions are recorded to ensure that equipment and parts are valued at the lower of cost and estimated net realizable value. The Corporation performs an aging analysis to identify slow moving or obsolete lower value parts inventory and estimates appropriate obsolescence provisions related thereto. The Corporation takes advantage of supplier programs that allow for the return of eligible parts for credit within specified time periods.

Acquisition accounting, goodwill and intangible assets
For acquisition accounting purposes, all identifiable assets and liabilities acquired in a business acquisition are recognized at fair value at the date of acquisition. Estimates and assumptions are used to calculate the fair value of these assets and liabilities. Changes to assumptions could significantly impact the fair values of certain assets, such as intangible assets like customer relationships and brands. The Corporation's significant assumptions used in determining the acquisition date fair value of intangible assets include projected revenues and cash flows attributable to acquired intangible assets, customer attrition rates, discount rates, royalty rates, and estimations of useful life.

The value in use of goodwill and intangible assets has been estimated using the forecasts prepared by management for the next five years. The key assumptions for the estimate are those regarding revenue growth, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") margin, tax rates, discount rates and the level of working capital required to support the business. These estimates are based on past experience and management's expectations of future changes in the market and forecasted growth initiatives.

Lease term of contracts with renewal options
The lease term is defined as the non-cancellable term of the lease, including any periods covered by a renewal option to extend the lease if it is reasonably certain that the renewal option will be exercised, or any periods covered by an option to terminate the lease, if it is reasonably certain that the termination option will not be exercised.

Judgement is used when evaluating whether the Corporation is reasonably certain that the lease renewal option will be exercised, including examining any factors that may provide an economic advantage for renewal.

3.    SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Principles of consolidation
These consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Wajax Corporation and its subsidiary entities, which are all wholly-owned. Intercompany balances and transactions are eliminated on consolidation.

Revenue recognition
Revenue from contracts with customers is recognized for each performance obligation as control is transferred to the customer. The following is a description of principal activities from which the Corporation generates its revenue, and the associated timing of revenue recognition.

The transaction price is generally the amount stated in the contract. Certain contracts are subject to discounts which are estimated and included in the transaction price. Provisions are made for expected returns and warranty costs based on historical data.

Revenue from equipment rental is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease.

Business combinations
Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method at the acquisition date, which is the date that control is transferred to the Corporation. In assessing control, the Corporation takes into consideration potential voting rights that are currently exercisable.

Goodwill is measured as the excess of the sum of the fair value of the consideration transferred, the amount of any non-controlling interests in the acquiree, and the fair value of any previously held equity interest in the acquiree over the net of the acquisition date fair value of the identifiable assets acquired and the liabilities assumed. If the excess is negative, a bargain purchase gain is recognized immediately in earnings. Transaction costs, other than those associated with the issuance of debt or equity, are recognized in earnings as incurred.

Any contingent consideration payable is measured at fair value at the acquisition date. If the contingent consideration is classified as equity, then it is not re-measured, and settlement is accounted for in equity. Otherwise, subsequent changes in the fair value of the contingent consideration are recognized in earnings.

When the initial accounting for a business combination has not been finalized by the end of the reporting period in which the combination occurs, the Corporation reports provisional amounts for the items for which the accounting has not been finalized. These provisional amounts are adjusted during the measurement period, which does not exceed one year from the acquisition date, to reflect new information obtained about facts and circumstances that existed at the acquisition date.

Trade and other receivables
Trade accounts receivable are amounts due from customers for merchandise sold or services performed in the ordinary course of business. Other accounts receivable are generally from suppliers for warranty and rebates. If collection is expected in one year or less (or in the normal operating cycle of the business, if longer), they are classified as current assets. If not, they are presented as non-current assets. Trade accounts receivable are recognized initially at amounts due, net of impairment for estimated expected credit losses. The expense relating to expected credit losses is included within selling and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of earnings.

Contract assets and contract liabilities
Contract assets primarily relate to the Corporation's rights to consideration for work completed but not billed at the reporting date on product support and ERS revenue. The contract assets are transferred to receivables when billed upon completion of significant milestones. Contract liabilities primarily relate to the advance billing or advance consideration received from customers on equipment sales, industrial parts, and ERS revenue, for which revenue is recognized when control transfers to the customer.

Inventory
Inventory is valued at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Cost is determined using the weighted average method except where the items are not ordinarily interchangeable, in which case the specific identification method is used. Cost of equipment and parts includes purchase cost, conversion cost, if applicable, and the cost incurred in bringing inventory to its present location and condition. Cost of work-in-process and cost of conversion includes cost of direct labour, direct materials and a portion of direct and indirect overheads, allocated based on normal capacity. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less the estimated costs to sell.

Rental equipment
Rental equipment is recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation. Cost includes all expenditures directly attributable to the acquisition of the asset. Rental equipment is depreciated over its estimated useful life to its estimated residual value on a straight-line basis, which ranges from 4 to 5 years.

Rental equipment includes units transferred from inventory and excludes units transferred to inventory when the rental equipment becomes available for sale.

Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation. Cost includes all expenditures directly attributable to the acquisition of the asset. Assets are depreciated over their estimated useful lives based on the following methods and annual rates:

Leases
As a lessee
The Corporation leases properties for its branch network, certain vehicles, machinery and IT equipment. At the commencement of the lease, the Corporation recognizes a right-of-use asset and a corresponding lease liability.

Lease liabilities are initially measured at the present value of the remaining lease payments discounted using the implicit interest rate in the lease or, if that rate is not readily determinable, the Corporation's incremental borrowing rate. Lease payments over the estimated lease term included in the measurement of the lease liability comprise of: fixed payments, adjusted for any lease incentives receivable, variable payments that are based on an index or a rate, amounts expected to be payable under residual value guarantees, the exercise price of a purchase option if the lessee is reasonably certain to exercise that option, and payments of penalties for early termination of a lease unless the Corporation is reasonably certain not to terminate early. Not included in the balance of lease liabilities are short-term leases (defined as leases with a lease term of 12 months or less), leases of low-value assets and variable lease payments not linked to an index, which are all expensed as incurred in the consolidated statements of earnings. Lease liabilities are subsequently measured by increasing the carrying amount to reflect interest on the lease liability (using the effective interest rate method) and by reducing the carrying amount to reflect the lease payments made.

Right-of-use assets at inception include the initial measurement of the corresponding lease liability, lease payments made at or before the commencement date and any initial direct costs. Right-of-use assets are subsequently measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Depreciation of right-of-use assets is recorded in selling and administrative expenses. Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over the lease term, unless the lease transfers ownership of the underlying asset to the Corporation by the end of the lease term, in which case depreciation is recorded from the commencement date to the end of the useful life of the underlying asset.

The Corporation remeasures the lease liability (and makes a corresponding adjustment to the related right-of-use asset) if there is a change in the future lease payments, a change in the Corporation's estimate of the amounts expected to be payable or if the Corporation changes its assessments of whether it will exercise a purchase, renewal, or termination option.

As a lessor
When the Corporation acts as lessor, it determines at lease commencement whether each lease is a finance lease or an operating lease. To classify each lease, the Corporation makes an overall assessment of whether the lease transfers to the lessee substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership incidental to ownership of the underlying asset. If this is the case, then the lease is a finance lease; if not, then it is an operating lease. As part of this assessment, the Corporation considers certain indicators such as whether the lease is for the major part of the economic life of the asset.

Operating leases
The Corporation rents equipment to customers under rental agreements with terms of up to 5 years. The rentals have been assessed and classified as operating leases. Revenue is presented as equipment rental revenue and recognized evenly over the term of the rental agreement.

Finance leases
The Corporation subleases certain equipment to customers. The Corporation assesses and classifies its subleases as finance leases, and therefore derecognizes the right-of-use assets relating to the respective head leases, recognizes lease receivables equal to the net investment in the subleases, and retains the previously recognized lease liabilities in its capacity as lessee.

Goodwill and intangible assets
Goodwill arising in a business combination is recognized as an asset at the date that control is acquired. Goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets are subsequently measured at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets are not amortized but are tested for impairment at least annually, or more frequently if certain indicators arise that indicate the assets might be impaired. Goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets are allocated to cash-generating units ("CGUs") that are expected to benefit from the synergies of the acquisition.

Product distribution rights and brands represent the fair value attributed to these rights and brands at the time of acquisition and are classified as indefinite life intangible assets because the Corporation is generally able to renew these rights and brands with minimal cost of renewal.

Customer relationships and vendor relationships are amortized on a straight-line basis over their useful lives which range from 4 to 12 years. Computer application software is classified as an intangible asset and is amortized on a straight-line basis over the useful life ranging from 1 to 15 years.

Impairment
Property, plant and equipment, rental equipment, right-of-use assets and definite life intangible assets are reviewed at the end of each period to determine if any indicators of impairment exist. If an indicator of impairment is identified, an impairment test is performed comparing its recoverable amounts to its carrying value. An impairment loss would be recognized as the amount by which the asset's carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. Where the asset does not generate cash flows that are independent of other assets, impairment is considered for the CGU or group of CGUs to which the asset belongs.

Goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets are tested for impairment at least annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable. To test for impairment, the Corporation compares the carrying values of its goodwill and indefinite life intangibles to their recoverable amounts. Recoverable amount is the higher of value in use or fair value less costs of disposal, if the fair value can be readily determined. The value in use is the present value of future cash flows using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects the time value of money and the risk specific to the assets. The fair value less costs of disposal is determined either by an adjusted net asset-based approach or by the present value of future cash flows from a market participant perspective. Any impairment of goodwill or indefinite life intangible assets would be recorded as a charge against earnings.

A CGU is the smallest identifiable group of assets that generates cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets. For the purpose of impairment testing the CGUs are grouped at the level at which it is monitored, which is at the consolidated Corporation level. As a result, goodwill and intangible assets impairment has been tested for impairment using the cash flows generated by the consolidated operations of the Corporation.

Financial assets measured at amortized cost are assessed for impairment at the end of each reporting period and a loss allowance is measured by estimating the lifetime expected credit losses ("ECL"). The Corporation uses the simplified approach to determine ECL on trade and other receivables, using a provision matrix based on historical credit loss experiences adjusted to reflect information about current economic conditions and forecasts of future economic conditions to estimate lifetime ECL. The ECL models applied to other financial assets and contract assets also required judgement, assumptions and estimations on changes in credit risks, forecasts of future economic conditions and historical information on the credit quality of the financial asset. Impairment losses are recorded in selling and administrative expenses with the carrying amount of the financial asset reduced through the use of impairment allowance accounts.

Cash and bank indebtedness
Cash and bank indebtedness includes cash on hand, demand deposits, bank overdrafts and outstanding cheques. The Corporation considers bank indebtedness to be an integral part of the Corporation's cash management. Cash and bank indebtedness are offset and the net amount presented in the consolidated statements of financial position to the extent that there is a right to set off and a practice of net settlement.

Borrowing costs
Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition or construction of a qualifying asset are capitalized, until those assets are substantially ready for their intended use. Qualifying assets are those that take a substantial period of time to prepare for their intended use. All other borrowing costs are recognized in finance costs in the period in which they are incurred.

Finance costs
Finance costs are comprised of interest on the Corporation's long-term debt and debentures, interest on lease liabilities, and interest income on lease receivables, and are net of any borrowing costs that have been capitalized. Transaction costs directly attributable to the acquisition or amendment of long-term debt or debentures are deferred and amortized to finance costs over the term of the related long-term debt or debentures using the effective interest rate method. Deferred financing costs reduce the carrying amount of the related long-term debt or debentures.

Government grants
Government grants are recognized when there is reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and all conditions associated with the grant are met. Claims under income-related government grants are reported in the consolidated statements of earnings as a deduction from the related expenses. Government grants receivable are recorded in trade and other receivables on the consolidated statements of financial position.

Derivative financial instruments and hedge accounting 
The Corporation uses derivative financial instruments in the management of: a) its foreign currency exposures related to certain inventory purchases and customer sales commitments, b) its interest rate risk related to its variable rate debt, and c) its equity price risk related to certain share-based compensation plans. The Corporation's policy is to not utilize derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. Where the Corporation intends to apply hedge accounting it formally documents the relationship between the derivative and the risk being hedged, as well as the risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedge transaction. The documentation links the derivative to a specific asset or liability or to specific firm commitments or forecasted transactions. The Corporation also assesses, at the hedge's inception and at least quarterly whether the hedge is effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of the risk being hedged. Should a hedge become ineffective, hedge accounting will be discontinued prospectively. All derivative instruments are recorded in the consolidated statements of financial position at fair value. All changes in fair value are recorded in earnings unless hedge accounting is applied, in which case the effective portion of changes in fair value of the hedging instrument are recorded in other comprehensive income. If the cash flow hedge of a firm commitment or forecasted transaction results in the recognition of a non-financial asset or liability, then, at the time the asset or liability is recognized, the associated gains or losses on the derivative that had previously been recognized in other comprehensive income are included in the initial measurement of the asset or liability.

Share-based compensation plans
The fair value of share-based compensation plan rights is based on the trading price of a Wajax Corporation common share on the Toronto Stock Exchange ("TSX") or a Monte Carlo simulation. Compensation expense for share-settled plans is based upon the fair value of the rights at the date of grant and is charged to selling and administrative expenses on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, with an offsetting adjustment to contributed surplus. Compensation expense for cash-settled plans varies with the price of the Corporation's shares and is charged to selling and administrative expenses, recognized over the vesting period with an offset to accounts payable and accrued liabilities.

Employee benefits
The Corporation has defined contribution pension plans for most of its employees. The cost of the defined contribution plans is recognized in earnings based on the contributions required to be made each year.

The Corporation also has defined benefit plans covering certain of its employees. The benefits are based on years of service and the employees' earnings. Defined benefit plan obligations are accrued as the employees render the services necessary to earn the pension benefits. The Corporation has adopted the following policies:

• The cost of pension benefits earned by employees is actuarially determined using the projected unit credit method for defined benefit plans and management's best estimate of salary escalation, and retirement ages of employees.
• For purposes of calculating expected return on plan assets, those assets are valued at fair value.
• The charge to earnings for the defined benefit plans is split between an operating cost and a finance charge. The finance charge represents the net interest cost on the defined benefit obligation net of the expected return on plan assets and is included in selling and administrative expenses.
• Actuarial gains and losses are recognized in full in other comprehensive income in the year in which they occur.

Income taxes
Income tax expense comprises current and deferred taxes. Current and deferred taxes are recognized in earnings except to the extent that they relate to a business combination or to items recognized directly in equity or in other comprehensive income.

Current tax is the expected taxes payable or receivable on the taxable income or loss for the year, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date, and any adjustment to income taxes payable in respect of previous years.

Deferred tax is recognized in respect of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. Deferred tax is measured at the tax rates that are expected to be applied to temporary differences when they reverse, based on the laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date.

A deferred tax asset is recognized for unused tax losses and deductible temporary differences to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which they can be utilized. Deferred tax assets are reviewed at each reporting date and are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the related tax benefit will be realized.

4.    CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES

During the year, the Corporation did not adopt any new accounting standards or amendments that had an impact on the Corporation's consolidated financial statements.

Accounting standards and amendments issued but not yet adopted

• Amendments to IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements (effective January 1, 2023) clarify the classification of liabilities as current or non-current. For the purposes of non-current classification, the amendments remove the requirement for a right to defer settlement of a liability for at least twelve months to be unconditional. Instead, such a right must have substance and exist at the end of the reporting period in order to qualify for non-current classification. Management is currently assessing the impact of adopting these amendments on its financial statements.

5.    ACQUISITION OF BUSINESS

Tundra Process Solutions Ltd. ("Tundra")

On January 22, 2021, the Corporation acquired all of the issued and outstanding shares of Calgary, Alberta-based Tundra. Founded in 1999, Tundra provides maintenance and technical services to customers in the western Canadian midstream oil and gas, oil sands, petrochemical, mining, forestry and municipal sectors. Tundra also distributes a diverse range of industrial process equipment, representing industry-leading manufacturers of valves and actuators, instrumentation and controls, motors and drives, control buildings, boilers and water treatment solutions.

The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination using the acquisition method whereby the net assets acquired were recorded at fair value.

The following table summarizes the acquisition-date fair value of each major class of consideration transferred, the recognized amounts of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, and the resulting value of goodwill:

As at December 31, 2021, the purchase price allocation is considered final. Net cash outflow for the acquisition was $73,540, as $597 of cash was acquired as part of Tundra's net assets. The fair value of common shares transferred as consideration is based on the Corporation's quoted share price on the date of acquisition, which was $18.61 per share.

Trade and other receivables represents gross contractual amounts receivable of $16,809 less management's best estimate of the allowance for credit losses of $177.

The Corporation acquired intangible assets as part of the acquisition including customer relationships, vendor relationships and brand. The fair values of customer relationships, vendor relationships and brand acquired in the business acquisition were determined using an income approach. The customer relationships and vendor relationships were fair valued using the multi-period excess earnings and with-and-without methods, respectively. The valuation methods are based on the discounted cash flows expected to be derived from the ownership of the assets. To estimate the fair value of the brand acquired, the relief from royalty method was applied to forecast revenue using an appropriate notional royalty rate.

Goodwill arising from the acquisition is attributable mainly to the ability to leverage the assembled workforce, industry knowledge, future growth and the potential to realize synergies in the form of cost savings. The goodwill recorded on the acquisition of Tundra is not deductible for income tax purposes. Tundra revenues of $125,438 and net earnings of $5,158 were included in the consolidated statements of earnings from the date of acquisition to December 31, 2021. Had the acquisition of Tundra occurred on January 1, 2021, the consolidated revenue would have increased by $5,449 and the consolidated net earnings would have increased by $145 for the year ended December 31, 2021.

Tundra transaction costs, primarily for advisory services, were $405 for the year ended December 31, 2021 and were included in selling and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of earnings. Additionally, Tundra transaction costs of $1,041 were recognized during the fourth quarter of 2020 in selling and administrative expenses.

QT Valve & Supply Limited ("QT Valve")

On September 1, 2021, the Corporation acquired all of the issued and outstanding shares of Fort St. John, British Columbia-based QT Valve, a supplier of valves and valve services to the western oil and gas market. QT Valve was acquired for total consideration of $1,950, subject to post-closing adjustments. Tangible net assets acquired and goodwill recognized upon acquisition were $1,126 and $824, respectively. Final valuations of certain items are not yet complete. Therefore, the purchase price allocation is preliminary and subject to adjustment on completion of the valuation process.

6.    TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES

The Corporation's trade and other receivables consist of trade accounts receivable from customers and other accounts receivable, generally from suppliers for warranty and rebates. Trade and other receivables are comprised of the following:

The Corporation has an agreement with a financial institution to sell 100% of selected trade accounts receivable on a recurring, non-recourse basis. Under the agreement, up to $20,000 of accounts receivable may be sold to the financial institution and can remain outstanding at any point in time. After the sale, the Corporation does not retain any interests in the accounts receivable and removes them from its consolidated statement of financial position, however the Corporation continues to service and collect the outstanding accounts receivable on behalf of the financial institution. As at December 31, 2021, the Corporation continues to service and collect $10,169 in accounts receivable on behalf of this financial institution (December 31, 2020 - $11,696). Net proceeds from this program are classified in operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows.

The Corporation's exposure to credit and currency risks related to trade and other receivables is disclosed in Note 18.

7.    CONTRACT ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

The following table provides information about contract assets and contract liabilities from contracts with customers:

The contract assets primarily relate to the Corporation's rights to consideration for work completed but not billed at the reporting date on product support and engineered repair services ("ERS") revenue. The contract assets are transferred to receivables when billed upon completion of significant milestones. The contract liabilities primarily relate to the advance billing or advance consideration received from customers on equipment sales, industrial parts, and ERS revenue, for which revenue is recognized when control transfers to the customer.

Revenue recognized in 2021 that was included in the contract liability balance at the beginning of the year was $6,599 (2020 - $6,535).

8.    INVENTORY

The Corporation's inventory balance consists of the following:

All amounts shown are net of obsolescence provisions of $29,825 (December 31, 2020 - $28,144). For the year ended December 31, 2021, $3,172 (2020 - $7,111) was recorded in cost of sales for the write-down of inventory to estimated net realizable value.

For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Corporation recognized $1,052,042 (2020 - $929,646) of inventory as an expense which is included in cost of sales.

As at December 31, 2021, the Corporation has included $56,452 (December 31, 2020 - $41,815) in equipment inventory related to short-term rental contracts that are expected to convert to equipment sales within a six to twelve month period.

Substantially all of the Corporation's inventory is pledged as security for the bank credit facility (Note 17).

Deposits on inventory in the consolidated statements of financial position amounted to $7,064 as at December 31, 2021 (December 31, 2020 - $44,197). The deposits on inventory as at December 31, 2021 relates entirely to ordered inventory, as the consignment program relating to construction-class excavators ended October 31, 2021 and the Corporation purchased all the remaining consignment inventory on hand during the fourth quarter of 2021.

9.    PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT & RENTAL EQUIPMENT

The disposals of property, plant and equipment included the sale and leaseback transactions described in Note 10. All property, plant and equipment except land and buildings have been pledged as security for bank debt (Note 17).

10.    RIGHT-OF-USE ASSETS

During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Corporation entered into sale and leaseback transactions for three of its owned properties (2020 - two of its owned properties). The proceeds net of transaction costs on the sale of the properties were $13,819 (2020 - $6,351) and the carrying amount was $3,623 (2020 -  $1,779), resulting in a total gain on the sale of the properties of $10,196 (2020 - $4,572), of which $880 (2020 - $1,470) was recognized in the consolidated statements of earnings at the time of transaction and the remaining $9,316 (2020 - $3,102) deferred as a reduction of the right-of-use assets. The Corporation also recorded lease liabilities of $10,534 (2020 - $4,429) and right-of-use assets of $1,218 (2020 - $1,327) related to these sale and leaseback transactions. The terms of the three leases are 10, 10 and 15 years (2020 - both leases had a term of 10 years).

11.    GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

The Corporation performed its annual impairment test of its goodwill and indefinite life intangibles as at December 31, 2021. The recoverable amount of the CGU group was estimated based on the present value of the future cash flows expected to be derived from the CGU group (value in use). This approach requires assumptions about revenue growth rates, EBITDA margins, tax rates, discount rates and the level of working capital required to support the business. The maintainable discretionary after-tax cash flows from operations are based on historical results, the Corporation's projected 2022 operating budget and its long term strategic plan. To prepare these calculations, the forecasts were extrapolated beyond the five year period at the estimated long-term inflation rate of 2% (2020 - 2%). The Corporation assumed a discount rate of approximately 9.0% (2020 - 9.9%) which is based on the Corporation's pre-tax weighted average cost of capital.

The tax rates applied to the cash flow projections were based on the effective tax rate of the Corporation of approximately 27.2%. Tax assumptions are sensitive to changes in tax laws as well as assumptions about the jurisdictions in which profits are earned. It is possible that actual tax rates could differ from those assumed.

The Corporation concluded as at December 31, 2021 that no impairment existed in either the goodwill or the intangible assets with an indefinite life, as the recoverable amount of the CGU group exceeded its carrying value.

The Corporation did not reverse any impairment losses for definite life intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

During the year, $153 (2020 - $857) of borrowing costs directly attributable to the construction of qualifying assets were capitalized. The capitalization rate used to determine the amount of borrowing costs capitalized during the year was 3.0% (2020 - 3.7%).

Amortization of intangible assets is charged to selling and administrative expenses.

12.    ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED LIABILITIES

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities are comprised of the following:

Supplier payables with extended terms relate to equipment purchases from suppliers with payment terms ranging anywhere from approximately 60 days to 8 months.

13.    PROVISIONS AND CONTINGENCIES

Contingencies
In the ordinary course of business, the Corporation is contingently liable for various amounts that could arise from litigation, environmental matters or other sources. The Corporation does not expect the resolution of these matters to have a materially adverse effect on its financial position or results of operations. Provisions have been made in these consolidated financial statements when the liability is expected to result in an outflow of economic resources, and where the obligation can be reliably measured.

14.    LEASE LIABILITIES AND LEASE RECEIVABLES

As lessee
The Corporation leases properties for its branch network, certain vehicles, machinery and IT equipment.

The change in lease liabilities is as follows:

Not included in the balance of lease liabilities are short-term leases, leases of low-value assets and variable lease payments not linked to an index. Variable lease payments, lease payments associated with short-term leases and leases of low-value assets are expensed as incurred in the consolidated statements of earnings.

The maturity analysis of contractual undiscounted cash flows of lease obligations is as follows:

As lessor

Operating leases
The Corporation rents equipment to customers under rental agreements with terms of up to 5 years. The rentals have been assessed and classified as operating leases. Revenue is presented as equipment rental revenue and recognized evenly over the term of the rental agreement. The future minimum lease payments receivable under the agreements are as follows:

Finance leases
The Corporation subleases certain equipment to customers. The Corporation assesses and classifies its subleases as finances leases, and therefore derecognizes the right-of-use assets relating to the respective head leases, recognizes lease receivables equal to the net investment in the subleases, and retains the previously recognized lease liabilities in its capacity as lessee. The following table sets out a maturity analysis of lease receivables, showing the undiscounted lease payments to be received after the reporting date:

15.    EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Prior to December 31, 2019, the Corporation sponsored three pension plans: the Wajax Limited Pension Plan (the "Employees' Plan") which, except for a small group of employees in a defined benefit plan, was a defined contribution plan, and two defined benefit plans: the Pension Plan for Executive Employees of Wajax Limited (the "Executive Plan") and the Wajax Limited Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (the "SERP"). Effective December 31, 2019, the Employees' Plan was wound up. Benefit accruals under the plan were frozen effective as of such date and all active members joined a new defined contribution plan sponsored by the Corporation, the Wajax Limited Defined Contribution Pension Plan (the "DC Plan"). During the year, the Corporation established and sponsored a Simplified Pension Plan (the "SP Plan"), designed as a defined contribution plan for employees in the province of Quebec.

During the year, the Corporation settled benefit obligations and plan assets as part of the wind-up of the Employees' Plan. The settlement was completed by entering into an agreement with a third-party insurance company to purchase an annuity for participants who selected that an annuity be purchased on their behalf, and by paying commuted values to participants who selected a lump sum payout. The cost of the annuity purchase totaled $4,396 and was funded with existing plan assets. For those participants who selected a lump sum settlement, the total lump sum paid was $2,610, which was also paid from existing plan assets. As a result of the settlement, the Employees' Plan assets and benefit obligations declined by $7,006 and $7,123, respectively, resulting in a gain on settlement of $117 that the Corporation recorded in the consolidated statements of earnings during the year.

In addition, the settlement triggered a re-measurement of the Employees' Plan for any pre-settlement changes in assumptions, plan asset return experience and other experience adjustments, resulting in a re-measurement loss of $142, net of tax, recognized in other comprehensive income during the year in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.

The Corporation also contributes to several union sponsored multi-employer pension plans for a small number of employees. Two of these are target benefit plans but they are accounted for as defined contribution plans since the Corporation has no involvement in the management of these plans and does not have sufficient information to account for the plans as defined benefit plans.

The Corporation uses actuarial reports prepared by independent actuaries for funding and accounting purposes and measures its defined benefit obligations and the fair value of plan assets for accounting purposes as at December 31 of each year. These actuarial assumptions include discount rates, compensation increases, mortality rates, inflation and service life. While management believes that the actuarial assumptions are appropriate, any significant changes to those used would affect the statements of financial position and statements of earnings.

The previous and final actuarial valuation for the Employees' Plan for funding purposes was December 31, 2019, when it was wound up. The previous actuarial valuation for the Executive Plan for funding purposes was as at January 1, 2021, and the next valuation is as at January 1, 2024.

The following significant actuarial assumptions were used to determine the net defined benefit plan cost and the defined benefit plan obligations:

Assumptions regarding future mortality rates were based on 100% of the rates of the 2014 Canadian Pensioner's Mortality Table for the Employees' Plan, and 87% of the rates of the 2014 Public Sector Canadian Pensioner's Mortality Table for the Executive Plan and SERP.

Plan assets for the defined contribution plans are invested according to the directions of the plan members. Plan assets for defined benefit plans are invested in the following major categories of plan assets as a percentage of total plan assets:

The history of adjustments on the defined benefit plans recognized in other comprehensive income for the current and prior year are as follows:

Total cash payments
Total cash payments for employee future benefits for 2021, consisting of cash contributed by the Corporation to its funded pension plans, cash payments directly to beneficiaries for its unfunded pension plans, and cash contributed to its defined contribution plans was $9,698 (2020 - $8,610).

The Corporation expects to contribute $511 to the defined benefit pension plans in the year ended December 31, 2022.

The plan expenses recognized in earnings are as follows:

Of the amounts recognized in earnings, $3,702 (2020 - $3,644) is included in cost of sales and $5,436 (2020 - $5,532) is included in selling and administrative expenses.

The amounts recognized in other comprehensive income are as follows:

Information about the Corporation's defined benefit pension plans, in aggregate, is as follows:

 

 

The accrued benefit liability is included in the Corporation's statement of financial position as follows:

Present value of benefit obligation includes a benefit obligation of $6,113 (2020 - $6,335) related to the SERP that is not funded. This obligation is secured by a letter of credit of $6,735 (2020 - $6,349).

Sensitivity analysis
The following sensitivity analysis is hypothetical and should be used with caution. The sensitivities of the key assumption have been calculated independently of any changes in other assumptions. Actual experience may result in changes in a number of assumptions simultaneously. Changes in one factor may result in changes in another, which could amplify or reduce the impact of such assumptions.

A 1% increase in discount rate would result in a $1,563 (2020 - $2,070) decrease to the defined benefit obligation as at December 31, 2021. A 1% decrease in discount rate would result in a $1,614 (2020 - $2,485) increase to the defined benefit obligation.

16.    DEBENTURES

Senior Unsecured Debentures - 6%, due January 15, 2025
In December 2019, the Corporation issued $57,000 in unsecured subordinated debentures with a term of five years due January 15, 2025. These debentures bear a fixed interest rate of 6.00% per annum, payable semi-annually on January 15 and July 15 of each year, commencing July 15, 2020.

The debentures will not be redeemable before January 15, 2023, except upon the occurrence of a change of control of the Corporation in accordance with the terms of the indenture governing the debentures. On or after January 15, 2023, but prior to January 15, 2024, the debentures are redeemable, in whole at any time or in part from time to time at the option of the Corporation at a price equal to 103% of the principal amount redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest. On or after January 15, 2024, but prior to the maturity date of January 15, 2025, the debentures are redeemable at a price equal to their principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest.

On redemption or at maturity on January 15, 2025, the Corporation has the option to repay the debentures in either cash or freely tradable voting shares of the Corporation.

The debentures are classified as a financial liability and are initially recorded at fair value net of transaction costs. The debentures are measured subsequently at amortized cost using the effective interest method over the life of the debentures.

The following balances were outstanding:

Movements in the debentures balance are as follows:

Finance costs on the debentures for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $3,999 (2020 - $3,999).

17.    LONG-TERM DEBT

On January 22, 2021, the Corporation utilized the $50,000 non-revolving acquisition term facility to finance the acquisition of Tundra. The remaining cash portion of the purchase price was financed with the revolving term facility.

On October 1, 2021, the Corporation amended its senior secured credit facility, by extending the maturity date from October 1, 2024 to October 1, 2026 for the non-revolving and revolving term facilities. While the December 30, 2022 maturity date for the non-revolving acquisition term facility remains unchanged, the interest margins for this facility were reduced to match those of the main credit facility. The $573 cost of amending the facility has been capitalized and will be amortized over the remaining term of the facility.

Borrowings under the bank credit facility bear floating rates of interest at margins over Canadian dollar bankers' acceptance yields, U.S. dollar LIBOR rates or prime. Margins on the facility depend on the Corporation's leverage ratio at the time of borrowing and range between 1.5% and 3.0% for Canadian dollar bankers' acceptances and U.S. dollar LIBOR borrowings, and 0.5% and 2.0% for prime rate borrowings. Previous to the October 1, 2021 bank credit facility amendment, margins on the non-revolving acquisition term facility ranged between 1.7% and 3.3% for Canadian dollar bankers' acceptances and U.S. dollar LIBOR borrowings, and 0.7% and 2.3% for prime rate borrowings. The bank credit facility amendment allowed the Corporation to align the non-revolving acquisition term facility rates to the main credit facility rates.

Borrowing capacity under the bank credit facility is dependent upon the level of the Corporation's inventory on hand and the outstanding trade accounts receivable. As at December 31, 2021, borrowing capacity under the bank credit facility was $450,000 (December 31, 2020 - $438,710), of which $342,729 (December 31, 2020 - $209,296) was accessible to the Corporation. In addition, the bank credit facility contains customary restrictive covenants including limitations on the declaration of cash dividends and an interest coverage maintenance ratio, all of which were met as at December 31, 2021.

The following balances were outstanding:

The Corporation had $7,271 (December 31, 2020 - $6,423) letters of credit outstanding at the end of the year. Finance costs on long-term debt amounted to $7,494 (2020 - $8,971). Movements in the long-term debt balance are as follows:

18.    FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT

The Corporation uses the following fair value hierarchy for determining and disclosing the fair value of financial instruments:

• Level 1 - unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
• Level 2 - other techniques for which all inputs that have a significant effect on the recorded fair value are observable, either directly or indirectly.
• Level 3 - techniques that use inputs that have a significant effect on the recorded fair value that are not based on observable market data.

The Corporation categorizes its financial instruments as follows:

The Corporation measures non-derivative financial assets and financial liabilities at amortized cost. Derivative financial assets/liabilities are recorded on the consolidated statements of financial position at fair value. Changes in fair value are recognized in the consolidated statements of earnings except for changes in fair value related to derivative financial assets/liabilities which are effectively designated as hedging instruments which are recognized in other comprehensive income. The Corporation's derivative financial assets/liabilities are held with major Canadian chartered banks and are deemed to be Level 2 financial instruments. The fair value of long-term debt approximates its recorded value due to its floating interest rate. The fair value of lease receivables approximates its carrying value. The fair value of the debentures can be estimated based on the trading price of the debentures, which takes into account the Corporation's own credit risk. At December 31, 2021, the Corporation has estimated the fair value of its debentures to be $58,972. The fair values of all other financial assets and liabilities, other than lease liabilities, approximate their recorded values due to the short-term maturities of these instruments.

The Corporation, through its financial assets and liabilities, has exposure to the following risks from its use of financial instruments: credit risk, liquidity risk, and market risk (consisting of currency risk, interest rate risk and equity price risk). The following analysis provides a measurement of these risks as at December 31, 2021 and 2020:

Credit risk
The Corporation is exposed to credit risk with respect to its trade and other receivables. This risk is mitigated by the Corporation's large customer base which covers many business sectors across Canada. The Corporation follows a program of credit evaluations of customers and limits the amount of credit extended when deemed necessary. The Corporation's trade and other receivables consist of trade accounts receivable from customers and other accounts receivable, generally from suppliers for warranty and rebates.

The aging of the trade accounts receivable is as follows:

The carrying amounts of accounts receivable represent the maximum credit exposure.

The Corporation maintains an allowance for expected credit losses taking into account past experience of collecting payments as well as observable changes in and forecasts of future economic conditions that correlate with default on receivables. Any such losses to date have been within management's expectations. Movement of the allowance for credit losses is as follows:

The Corporation is also exposed to the risk of non-performance by counterparties to foreign exchange forwards, interest rate swaps and total return swaps. These counterparties are large financial institutions that maintain high short-term and long-term credit ratings. To date, no such counterparty has failed to meet its financial obligations to the Corporation. Management does not believe there is a significant risk of non-performance by these counterparties and will continue to monitor the credit risk of these counterparties.

Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Corporation will encounter difficulty in meeting obligations associated with its financial liabilities as they become due. At December 31, 2021, the Corporation had borrowed $100,000 (2020 - $172,991) from the bank credit facility, of which $50,000 matures on December 30, 2022 and $50,000 matures on October 1, 2026. The Corporation issued $7,271 (2020 - $6,423) of letters of credit for a total utilization of $107,271 (2020 - $179,414) of its $450,000 (2020 - $450,000) bank credit facility and had not utilized any (2020 - nil) of its $25,000 (2020 - $25,000) interest bearing equipment financing facilities.

In December 2019, the Corporation issued $57,000 in unsecured subordinated debentures with a term of five years due January 15, 2025. These debentures bear a fixed interest rate of 6.00% per annum, payable semi-annually on January 15 and July 15 of each year, commencing July 15, 2020. On redemption or at maturity on January 15, 2025, the Corporation has the option to repay the debentures in either cash or freely tradable voting shares of the Corporation.

The Corporation's $450,000 bank credit facility, of which $342,729 was unutilized at the end of the year, along with the additional $25,000 of equipment financing available under the bank credit facility, is deemed to be sufficient to meet the Corporation's short-term normal course working capital and maintenance capital requirements and certain strategic investments. However, the Corporation may be required to access the equity or debt markets to fund significant acquisitions.

Contractual obligations are as follows:

Market risk
Market risk is the risk from changes in market prices, such as changes in foreign exchange rates, interest rates, and the Corporation's share price which will affect the Corporation's earnings as well as the value of the financial instruments held and cash-settled share-based liabilities outstanding. The exposure to these risks is managed through the use of various derivative instruments.

a) Currency risk

Certain of the Corporation's sales to customers and purchases from vendors are exposed to fluctuations in the U.S. dollar ("USD") and the Euro ("EUR"). When considered appropriate, the Corporation purchases foreign exchange forwards for USD and EUR as a means of mitigating this risk. A change in foreign currency relative to the Canadian dollar would not have a material impact on the Corporation's unhedged foreign currency-denominated sales to customers along with the associated receivables, or on the Corporation's unhedged foreign currency-denominated purchases from vendors along with the associated payables. The Corporation will periodically institute price increases to offset the negative impact of foreign exchange rate increases and volatility on imported goods to ensure margins are not eroded. However, a sudden strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to the Canadian dollar can have a negative impact mainly on parts margins in the short term prior to price increases taking effect.

The Corporation maintains a hedging policy whereby significant transactional currency risks are typically identified and hedged.

b) Interest rate risk

The Corporation's borrowing costs are impacted by changes in interest rates. The Corporation's tolerance to interest rate risk decreases as the Corporation's leverage ratio increases and interest coverage ratio decreases. To manage this risk prudently, guideline percentages of floating interest rate debt decrease as the Corporation's leverage ratio increases. The Corporation has entered into interest rate swap contracts primarily to minimize exposure to interest rate fluctuations on its variable rate debt.

A 1.00 percentage point change in interest rates on the average amount outstanding under the bank credit facility for 2021 would result in a change to earnings before income taxes of approximately $1,824 for the year.

c) Equity price risk

The Corporation's total return swaps are exposed to fluctuations in its share price. A $1.00 per share decrease in the share price would result in a decrease in earnings before income taxes of $390 relating to the total return swaps. An increase of $1.00 per share would result in an equal and opposite effect on earnings before income taxes.

Derivative financial instruments and hedges
The Corporation enters into interest rate swaps to hedge the risk associated with interest rate fluctuations on its variable rate debt. Interest rate swaps are initially recognized on the date the derivative contracts are entered into, and are subsequently re-measured at their fair values. The method of recognizing the resulting gain or loss depends on whether the derivative is designated as a hedging instrument. In a cash flow hedging relationship, the effective portion of the change in the fair value of the hedging derivative, net of taxes, is recognized in other comprehensive income while the ineffective portion is recognized within net earnings. Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income are reclassified to net earnings in the periods when the hedged item affects profit or loss. For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Corporation recognized a loss of $502 in the consolidated statements of earnings associated with its interest rate swaps and a gain of $4,135 (2020 - loss of $4,131), net of tax in other comprehensive income .

The Corporation's interest rate swaps outstanding are summarized as follows:

The Corporation enters into short-term foreign exchange forwards to hedge the exchange risk associated with the cost of certain inbound inventory and certain foreign currency-denominated sales to customers along with the associated receivables as part of its normal course of business. Foreign exchange forwards are initially recognized on the date the derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently re-measured at their fair values. The method of recognizing the resulting gain or loss depends on whether the derivative is designated as a hedging instrument. In a cash flow hedging relationship, the effective portion of the change in the fair value of the hedging derivative, net of taxes, is recognized in other comprehensive income while the ineffective portion is recognized within net earnings. Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income are reclassified to net earnings in the periods when the hedged item affects profit or loss. For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Corporation recognized a loss of $145 (2020 - gain of $151) associated with its foreign exchange forwards in the consolidated statements of earnings, and a gain of $1,147 (2020 - gain of $51), net of tax in other comprehensive income.

The Corporation's contracts to buy and sell foreign currencies are summarized as follows:

 

The Corporation has certain total return swaps to hedge the exposure associated with increases in its share price on its outstanding restricted share units ("RSUs"). The Corporation does not apply hedge accounting to these relationships and as such, gains and losses arising from marking these derivatives to market are recognized in earnings in the period in which they arise. As at December 31, 2021, the Corporation's total return swaps cover 390,000 of the Corporation's underlying common shares (December 31, 2020 - 387,000), and expire between March 2022 and March 2024. During the year, the Corporation settled a total return swap contract for 114,000 shares (2020 - 121,000 shares), resulting in a cash payout of $613 (2020 - $1,396). For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Corporation recognized a gain of $2,801 (2020 - gain of $978) associated with its total return swaps.

Derivative financial assets consist of:

Derivative financial liabilities consist of:

Movements in the net derivative financial (assets) liabilities balance are as follows:

The balance in accumulated other comprehensive loss relates to changes in the value of the Corporation's various interest rate swaps and foreign exchange forwards where hedge accounting is applied. These accumulated amounts will be continuously released to the consolidated statements of earnings within finance costs and gross profit, respectively.

During the periods presented and cumulatively to date, changes in counterparty credit risk have not significantly contributed to the overall changes in the fair value of these derivative instruments.

19.    SHARE CAPITAL AND EARNINGS PER SHARE

The Corporation is authorized to issue an unlimited number of no par value common shares and an unlimited number of no par value preferred shares. Each common share entitles the holder of record to one vote at all meetings of shareholders. All issued common shares are fully paid. There were no preferred shares outstanding as at December 31, 2021 (December 31, 2020 - nil). Each common share represents an equal beneficial interest in any distributions of the Corporation and in the net assets of the Corporation in the event of its termination or winding-up.

 

Dividends declared

During the year, the Corporation declared cash dividends of $1.00 per share or $21,408 (2020 - dividends of $1.00 per share or $20,032). As at December 31, 2021, the Corporation had $5,352 (December 31, 2020 - $5,008) dividends outstanding which were paid on January 5, 2022.

Earnings per share

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:

5,408 anti-dilutive share rights were excluded from the above calculation (2020 - 20,768).

20.    SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS

The Corporation has four share-based compensation plans: the Wajax Share Ownership Plan (the "SOP"), the Directors' Deferred Share Unit Plan (the "DDSUP"), the Mid-Term Incentive Plan for Senior Executives (the "MTIP") and the Deferred Share Unit Plan (the "DSUP"). The following table provides the share-based compensation expense for awards under all plans:

a) Treasury share rights plans

Under the SOP and the DDSUP, rights are issued to the participants which are settled by issuing Wajax Corporation shares for no cash consideration. Rights under the SOP vest over three years, while rights under the DDSUP vest immediately. Vested rights are settled when the participant is no longer employed by the Corporation or one of its subsidiary entities or no longer sits on its Board. Whenever dividends are paid on the Corporation's shares, additional rights (dividend equivalents) with a value equal to the dividends are credited to the participants' accounts.

The following rights under these plans are outstanding:

At December 31, 2021, 500,405 share rights were vested (December 31, 2020 - 453,466 share rights were vested).

The outstanding aggregate number of shares issuable to satisfy entitlements under these plans is as follows:

b) Market-purchased share rights plans

The MTIP plan consists of cash-settled restricted share units ("RSUs") and equity-settled performance share units ("PSUs"), and the equity-settled DSUP plan consists of deferred share units ("DSUs").

Market-purchased share rights plans consist of PSUs under the MTIP plan and DSUs, which vest over three years and are settled in common shares of the Corporation on a one-for-one basis. DSUs are only subject to time-vesting, whereas PSUs are also subject to performance vesting. PSUs are comprised of two components: return on net assets ("RONA") PSUs and total shareholder return ("TSR") PSUs as described below:

• RONA PSUs vest dependent upon the attainment of a target level of return on net assets. Such performance vesting criteria results in a performance vesting factor that ranges from 0% to 150% depending on the level of RONA attained.
  
  
• TSR PSUs vest dependent upon the attainment of a TSR market condition. Such performance vesting criteria result in a performance vesting factor that ranges from 0% to 200% depending on the Corporation's TSR relative to a pre-selected group of peers.

These plans are settled through shares purchased on the open market by the employee benefit plan trust, subject to the attainment of their vesting conditions. PSUs are settled at the end of the vesting period, and the number of shares remitted to the participant upon settlement is equal to the number of PSUs awarded multiplied by the performance vesting factor less shares withheld to satisfy the participant's withholding tax requirement. DSUs are settled when the participant is no longer employed by the Corporation or one of its subsidiary entities. Whenever dividends are paid on the Corporation's shares, additional rights with a value equal to the dividends are credited to the participants' accounts with the same vesting conditions as the original PSUs and DSUs.

The following rights under these plans are outstanding:

At December 31, 2021, 26,092 outstanding rights were vested (December 31, 2020 - 21,004 rights were vested). All vested rights are DSUs.

c) Cash-settled rights plans

Cash-settled rights plans consist of MTIP RSUs and cash-settled DSUs. Compensation expense varies with the price of the Corporation's shares and is recognized over the three year vesting period. RSUs are settled at the end of the vesting period, whereas DSUs are settled when the participant is no longer employed by the Corporation or one of its subsidiary entities. Whenever dividends are paid on the Corporation's shares, additional rights with a value equal to the dividends are credited to the participants' accounts with the same vesting conditions as the original rights. The value of the payout is equal to the number of rights awarded including earned dividend equivalents, multiplied by the volume weighted average share price at the time of vesting. At December 31, 2021, the carrying amount of the liabilities for these plans was $6,605 (December 31, 2020 - $3,863).

The following rights under these plans are outstanding:

At December 31, 2021, 10,689 outstanding rights were vested (December 31, 2020 - 10,182 rights were vested).

21.    REVENUE

a) Disaggregation of revenue

In the following table, revenue is disaggregated by revenue type:

As at December 31, 2021, the Corporation has included $19,884 (2020 - $18,193) in equipment sales related to short-term rental contracts that are expected to convert to equipment sales within a six to twelve month period.

b) Transaction price allocated to the remaining performance obligations

The following table includes revenue expected to be recognized in the future related to performance obligations that are unsatisfied (or partially unsatisfied) at the reporting date:

The Corporation has applied the practical expedient which permits the Corporation to not disclose information about remaining performance obligations that have original expected durations of one year or less.

22.    EMPLOYEE COSTS

Employee costs recorded in cost of sales and selling and administrative expenses for the Corporation during the year amounted to:

23.    FINANCE COSTS

Finance costs are comprised of the following:

During the year, $153 (2020 -  $857) of borrowing costs directly attributable to the construction of qualifying assets were capitalized.

24.    INCOME TAX EXPENSE

Income tax expense comprises current and deferred tax as follows:

The calculation of current tax is based on a combined federal and provincial statutory income tax rate of 26.2% (2020 - 26.5%). Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at tax rates that are expected to apply to the period when the asset is realized or the liability is settled. Deferred tax assets and liabilities have been measured using an expected average combined statutory income tax rate of 26.2% based on the tax rates in years when the temporary differences are expected to reverse.

The reconciliation of income taxes at Canadian statutory rates to the reported income tax expense is as follows:

Recognized deferred tax assets and liabilities and the movement of temporary differences during the year are as follows:

 

25.    CHANGES IN NON-CASH OPERATING WORKING CAPITAL

The net change in non-cash operating working capital comprises the following:

26.    CAPITAL MANAGEMENT

Objective
The Corporation defines its capital as the total of its shareholders' equity, long-term debt, and debentures ("interest bearing debt"). The Corporation's objective when managing capital is to have a capital structure and capacity to support the Corporation's operations and strategic objectives set by the Board of Directors.

Management of capital
As part of the Corporation's renewed long-term strategy, its capital structure will continue to be managed such that it maintains a prudent leverage ratio, defined below, in order to provide funds available to invest in strategic growth initiatives, provide liquidity in times of economic uncertainty and to allow for the payment of dividends. In addition, the Corporation's tolerance to interest rate risk decreases/increases as the Corporation's leverage ratio increases/decreases. The Corporation's objective is to manage its working capital and normal-course capital investment programs within a leverage range of 1.5 to 2.0 times and to fund those programs through operating cash flow and its bank credit facilities as required. There may be instances whereby the Corporation is willing to maintain a leverage ratio outside of this range during changes in economic cycles. The Corporation may also maintain a leverage ratio above the stated range as a result of investment in significant acquisitions and may fund those acquisitions using its bank credit facilities and other debt instruments in accordance with the Corporation's expectations of total future cash flows, financing costs and other factors.

The leverage ratio at the end of a particular quarter is defined as debt divided by trailing 12-month pro-forma adjusted EBITDA. Debt includes bank indebtedness, debentures, total long-term debt, and letters of credit, net of cash. Pro-forma adjusted EBITDA used in calculating the leverage ratio under the bank credit agreement is calculated as earnings before restructuring and other related costs (recoveries), gain recorded on sales of properties, non-cash losses (gains) on mark to market of derivative instruments, Tundra transaction costs, NorthPoint transaction costs, finance costs, income tax expense and depreciation and amortization, adjusted for the EBITDA of business acquisitions made during the period as if they were made at the beginning of the trailing 12-month period, and adjusted for payment on lease liabilities pursuant to the terms of the bank credit facility.

Although management currently believes the Corporation has adequate debt capacity, the Corporation may have to access the equity or debt markets, or temporarily reduce dividends to accommodate any shortfalls in the Corporation's credit facilities or significant growth capital requirements.

There were no significant changes in the Corporation's approach to capital management during the year.

Restrictions on capital
The interest bearing debt includes a $450,000 bank credit facility, of which $400,000 expires on October 1, 2026 and $50,000 expires on December 30, 2022. The bank credit facility contains the following key covenants:

• Borrowing capacity is dependent upon the level of the Corporation's inventory on hand and the outstanding trade accounts receivable ("borrowing base").
• The Corporation will be restricted from the declaration of cash dividends in the event the Corporation's leverage ratio, as defined under the bank credit facility, exceeds 4.0 times.
• An interest coverage maintenance ratio.

At December 31, 2021, the Corporation was in compliance with all covenants and there were no restrictions on the declaration of quarterly cash dividends.

Under the terms of the $450,000 bank credit facility, the Corporation is permitted to have additional interest bearing debt of $25,000. As a result, the Corporation has up to $25,000 of demand inventory equipment financing capacity with two lenders. The equipment notes payable under the facilities bear floating rates of interest at margins over Canadian dollar bankers' acceptance yields and U.S. LIBOR rates. Principal repayments are generally due the earlier of 12 months from the date of financing and the date the equipment is sold. At December 31, 2021, the Corporation had not utilized any of its interest bearing equipment financing facilities.

27.    RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Balances and transactions between the Corporation and its subsidiaries, which are related parties, have been eliminated on consolidation and are not disclosed in this note.

The Corporation's related party transactions consist of the compensation of the Board of Directors and key management personnel which is set out in the following table:

28.    OPERATING SEGMENTS

The Corporation's Chief Executive Officer, who is also the Chief Operating Decision Maker, regularly assesses the performance of, and makes resource allocation decisions based on, the Corporation as a whole. As a result, the Corporation has determined that it comprises a single operating segment and therefore a single reportable segment.

29.    GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE

Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy

On April 11, 2020, the Government of Canada passed the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy ("CEWS") to support employers facing financial hardship as measured by certain revenue declines as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The CEWS currently provides eligible businesses with a reimbursement of compensation expense for the period from March 15, 2020 to October 23, 2021 of up to 75% of eligible employees' employment remuneration, subject to certain criteria. The Corporation applied for the CEWS for the period from March 15, 2020 to June 5, 2021 to the extent it met the requirements to receive the subsidy. In accordance with IAS 20 Accounting for Government Grants and Disclosure of Government Assistance, during the year, the Corporation recognized $8,448 (2020 - $26,592) as a reimbursement of compensation expense, with $3,723 (2020 - $14,132) and $4,725 (2020 - $12,460) allocated to cost of sales and selling and administrative expenses, respectively, in proportion to personnel costs recorded in those areas. As at December 31, 2021, the entire $8,448 current year subsidy has been received from the Government of Canada. The Corporation will not be filing further CEWS claims.

30.    COMPARATIVE INFORMATION

Certain comparative information has been reclassified to conform to the current year's presentation.

31.    SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

On March 7, 2022, the Corporation declared a first quarter 2022 dividend of $0.25 per share or $5,352.

On January 31, 2022, the Corporation acquired the net operating assets of Thunder Bay, Ontario-based Process Flow Systems Ltd. ("Process Flow"). The assets of Process Flow were acquired in exchange for cash consideration of approximately $3,960, subject to final working capital adjustments, plus a three-year performance-based earnout of up to $650 in the aggregate, payable in cash.

SOURCE Wajax Corporation