Taxes

The Group operates in accordance with the tax principles adopted by the Board of Directors for the entire Lindt & Sprüngli Group. These principles provide policies and guidance in the following areas: governance and organization, tax planning, national and international tax compliance and relationships with authorities. Responsibility for the tax principles lies with the whole Board of Directors and is exercised by the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee monitors adherence to the tax principles by defining and implementing appropriate processes and controls. Tax topics are discussed regularly in the Audit Committee.

The companies of the Lindt & Sprüngli Group pay taxes in those countries in which they operate their respective business, create value and – if relevant for tax purposes – own intellectual property. Lindt & Sprüngli complies with both national and international tax laws and regulations, in particular the OECD standards. A main focus is placed on establishing transfer pricing guidelines that ensure all intercompany transactions are performed at arm’s length.

Important tax topics are discussed proactively with the tax authorities. If possible, the results are formally documented in Tax Rulings or Advance Pricing Agreements.

Lindt & Sprüngli files the Country-by-Country Report in Switzerland and implements the Council Directive (EU) 2018/822 of 25 May 2018, which amends Directive 2011/16/EU in the mandatory automatic exchange of information in the field of taxation in relation to the disclosure of reportable cross-border arrangements (DAC 6).