Report Profile

Report Framework

The reporting period is the 2016 financial year (1 January to 31 December 2016). The data presented generally refers to this period or the facts and figures at the end of the reporting period. If information refers to a different period of time, this is explicitly stated. The report is published once a year. The previous Annual Report was published on 30 March 2016.

Unless otherwise stated, the key figures and information in this report concern the entire Group including associated companies in which the company has a majority holding. Some sections contain forward-looking statements. These estimates and statements were made to the best of our knowledge and in good faith. Future global economic conditions, legislation, market conditions, competitors’ activities and other factors are not within the control of HHLA.

Defining the Content for this Report

The content structure of this Annual Report is regulated by the disclosure obligation for public limited companies as defined by the German Commercial Code (HGB). In addition to details on the financial and economic situation of the company, the report also includes information from HHLA’s sustainability programme, “On Course”. The concept of an integrated report includes annual financial and sustainability reporting. It illustrates the interaction between economic, environmental and social factors and their relevance to the company’s long-term success.

Every two years, HHLA carries out a materiality analysis to determine the most important sustainability topics. This was conducted by means of an international online survey of stakeholders in autumn 2015. The results of this survey were used to determine the key issues for sustainability reporting. It includes all topics identified as material. see Materiality Analysis

Data Collection and Calculation Methods

Financial Statements and Reports

All data and information was collected from the respective units responsible for such information using representative methods for the reporting period. HHLA prepares its Consolidated Financial Statements and its Interim Reports in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). This Annual Report provides further information on IFRS in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. see Note 2, Consolidation Principles

The individual financial statements of HHLA Aktiengesellschaft are prepared in line with the accounting regulations of the German Commercial Code (HGB). The appropriation of profits is based solely on the individual financial statements.

Sustainability Performance Indicators

Sustainability-relevant key figures are input into the internal management information system on a monthly basis and analysed every six months. The Executive Board receives a corresponding report. The sustainability performance indicators are calculated every year and published in the Management Report section of the Annual Report, having been signed off by the auditors. This ensures the reliability of the data. Data comparability and consistency is guaranteed by complying with widely used international reporting standards (e.g. Greenhouse Gas Protocol). see Sustainable Performance Indicators

Risk and Opportunity Management

Opportunities and risks are analysed using a comprehensive risk management system. Compliance with corporate guidelines as well as with relevant and recognised national and international industry standards is regarded as an essential part of corporate governance at HHLA. Workflows and processes are structured in line with these regulations. External audits at various HHLA companies (including ISO 14001, ISO 9001, ISO 50001 and CTQI [Container Terminal Quality Indicator]) confirm compliance with recognised international standards. see Risk and Opportunity Report

External Audit

The Combined Management Report of the HHLA Group and HHLA Aktiengesellschaft, as well as the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes, were audited by Price Waterhouse Coopers.

The 2016 Annual Report was prepared in accordance with the international G4 guidelines of the Global Reporting Initiative and meets the option “Comprehensive”.

GRI Index

The GRI index refers to parts in this Annual Report or sections of the HHLA website that provide information about individual GRI indicators. The index is available exclusively at www.bericht.hhla.en/gri.