100.
to the co
24. Off-Balance-Sheet Commitments
Less than
1-5
More than
5 Years
Total
Guarantees to banks for loans (to third parties)
353
245
96
12
313
Other guarantees
65
15
26
24
58
Total guarantees
418
260
122
36
371
Lease operational lease commitments
172
22
84
66
115
Property, plant equipment ordered
173
25
148
137
Raw material purchase contracts
227
57
170
161
Other off-balance sheet obligations
385
76
268
41
487
Off-balance-sheet obligations
957
180
670
107
900
Committed bank facilities
2,341
212
129
2,000
2,123
25. Contingencies
Netherlands
Heineken Nederland, among some other brewers operating in the Netherlands, received a statement of
objections from the European Commission, claiming that these brewers entered into concerted practices
restricting competition in the Dutch market in the period 1995-1999. Heineken is challenging the allegations
of the European Commission and submitted its defence on 24 November 2005.
USA
Heineken USA and Heineken N.V. (and in certain cases other Heineken companies and Heineken Holding
N.V.) have been named as defendants in purported 'class action' lawsuits filed in nine states. The lawsuits
claim that Heineken companies, along with other producers and distributors of alcohol beverages, have
unlawfully advertised and marketed products to underage people. Heineken is defending vigorously against
these accusations, as Heineken companies advertise and market their products lawfully to people of legal
drinking age.
In 2005, two of the lawsuits were dismissed: the court in the lawsuit pending in the State of Colorado
dismissed that case, although the plaintiffs have appealed that ruling, and the plaintiff himself voluntarily
dismissed the lawsuit he brought in the State of Florida. Heineken has filed, or will be filing in 2006, motions
to dismiss all cases at the initial pleading state.
Heineken N.V. - Annual Report 2005