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Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

The purpose of this discussion and analysis is to enhance the understanding and evaluation of the results of operations, financial position, cash flows, indebtedness, and other key financial information of Acuity Brands, Inc. (referred to herein as “we,” “our,” “us,” the “Company,” or similar references) and its subsidiaries for the fiscal years ended August 31, 2023 and 2022. The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included within this report.

A discussion of the year ended August 31, 2022 compared to the year ended August 31, 2021 can be found within Part II, Item 7.Management's Discussion and Analysis within our fiscal 2022 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 26, 2022.

Overview

Company

We are a market-leading industrial technology company. We use technology to solve problems in spaces and light. Through our two business segments, Acuity Brands Lighting and Lighting Controls (“ABL”) and the Intelligent Spaces Group (“ISG”), we design, manufacture, and bring to market products and services that make a valuable difference in people's lives. We achieve growth through the development of innovative new products and services, including lighting, lighting controls, building management solutions, and location-aware applications.

Financial Condition, Capital Resources, and Liquidity

We have numerous sources of capital, including cash on hand and cash flows generated from operations, as well as various sources of financing. Our ability to generate sufficient cash flows from operations or to access certain capital markets, including banks, is necessary to meet our capital allocation priorities, which are to invest in our current business for growth, to invest in mergers and acquisitions, to maintain our dividend, and to make share repurchases. Sufficient cash flow generation is also critical to fund our operations in the short and long terms and to maintain compliance with covenants contained in our financing agreements.

Our significant contractual cash requirements as of August 31, 2023 primarily include principal and interest on our unsecured notes, accounts payable, accrued employee compensation, and operating lease liabilities. We had no borrowings outstanding under our credit agreement as of August 31, 2023. Further details on our borrowings and operating lease liabilities are outlined in the Debt and Lines of Credit and Leases footnotes of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, respectively,within this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Additionally, we incur purchase obligations in the ordinary course of business that are enforceable and legally binding. Contractual purchase obligations subsequent to August 31, 2023 include $302.6 million in fiscal 2024. Contractual purchase obligations beyond fiscal 2024 are not significant.

We believe that we will be able to meet our liquidity needs over the next 12 months based on our cash on hand, current projections of cash flows from operations, and borrowing availability under financing arrangements. Additionally, we believe that our cash flows from operations and sources of funding, including, but not limited to, future borrowings and borrowing capacity, will sufficiently support our long-term liquidity needs. In the event of a sustained market deterioration, we may need additional capital, which would require us to evaluate available alternatives and take appropriate actions.

Cash

Our cash position at August 31, 2023 was $397.9 million, an increase of $174.7 million from August 31, 2022. Cash generated from operating activities and cash on hand were used during the current year to fund our capital allocation priorities as discussed below.

We generated $578.1 million of cash flows from operating activities during fiscal 2023 compared with $316.3 million in the prior-year period, an increase of $261.8 million. This increase was due primarily to increased cash collections from customers and fewer inventory purchases during the current period, partially offset by the timing of payments for purchases on account.

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Financing Arrangements

See the Debt and Lines of Credit footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements within this Annual Report on Form 10-K for discussion of the terms of our various financing arrangements, including the $500.0 million aggregate principal amount of 2.150% senior unsecured notes due December 15, 2030 (the “Unsecured Notes”) as well as the terms of our $600.0 million five-year unsecured revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”).

At August 31, 2023, our outstanding debt balance was $495.6 million, which consisted solely of our Unsecured Notes, compared to our cash position of $397.9 million. We were in compliance with all covenants under our financing arrangements as of August 31, 2023.

At August 31, 2023, we had additional borrowing capacity under the Revolving Credit Facility of $596.2 million under the most restrictive covenant in effect at the time, which represents the full amount of the facility less the outstanding letters of credit of $3.8 million issued under the facility. As of August 31, 2023, our cash on hand combined with the additional borrowing capacity under the revolving credit facility totaled approximately $994.1 million.

The Unsecured Notes were issued by Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Acuity Brands, Inc. The Unsecured Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by Acuity Brands, Inc. and ABL IP Holding LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Acuity Brands, Inc. The following tables present summarized financial information for Acuity Brands, Inc., Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc., and ABL IP Holding LLC on a combined basis after the elimination of all intercompany balances and transactions between the combined group as well as any investments in non-guarantors as of the dates and during the period presented (in millions):

Summarized Balance Sheet Information August 31, 2023 August 31, 2022

Current assets due from non-guarantor affiliates 326.4 280.2

Summarized Income Statement Information Year Ended August 31, 2023

Capital Allocation Priorities

Our capital allocation priorities are to invest in our current business for growth, to invest in mergers and acquisitions, to maintain our dividend, and to make share repurchases.

Investments in Current Business for Growth

We invested $66.7 million and $56.5 million in property, plant, and equipment in fiscal 2023 and 2022, respectively. We invested more in fiscal 2023 primarily on new and enhanced equipment, facility improvements, and information technology.

Strategic Acquisitions, Investments, and Divestitures

We seek opportunities to strategically expand and enhance our portfolio of solutions. On May 15, 2023, using cash on hand, we acquired all of the equity interests of KE2 Therm Solutions, Inc. (“KE2 Therm”). KE2 Therm develops and provides intelligent refrigeration control solutions that deliver the precision of digital controls to promote safety, efficiency, and reliability, while delivering cost savings to the customer. This acquisition is intended to expand ISG's technology and controls product portfolio and reach new customers.

We sold our Sunoptics prismatic skylights business in November 2022. We recognized a pre-tax loss of $11.2 million on the sale of this business.

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There were no acquisitions or divestitures during fiscal 2022. The $12.9 million of cash outflows in fiscal 2022 reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows primarily relate to working capital settlements for fiscal 2021 acquisitions.

Please refer to the Acquisitions and Divestitures footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.

Dividends

We paid dividends on our common stock of $16.8 million ($0.52 per share) in fiscal 2023 and $18.1 million ($0.52 per share) in fiscal 2022, indicating a quarterly dividend rate of $0.13 per share. All decisions regarding the declaration and payment of dividends are at the discretion of the Board of Directors (the “Board”) and are evaluated regularly in light of our financial condition, earnings, growth prospects, funding requirements, applicable law, and any other factors the Board deems relevant.

Share Repurchases

During fiscal 2023, we repurchased 1.6 million shares of our outstanding common stock for $269.3 million. Total cash outflows for share repurchases during fiscal 2023 were $266.6 million. We expect to repurchase shares on an opportunistic basis subject to various factors including stock price, Company performance, market conditions, and other possible uses of cash. As of August 31, 2023, the maximum number of shares that may yet be repurchased under the share repurchase program authorized by the Board equaled 1.2 million shares.

Results of Operations

The following is a discussion of our results of operations in fiscal 2023 compared to fiscal 2022. A discussion of our fiscal 2022 results of operations compared to fiscal 2021 can be found within Part II, Item 7.Management's Discussion and Analysis within our fiscal 2022 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 26, 2022.

The following table sets forth information comparing the components of net income for the year ended August 31, 2023 with the year ended August 31, 2022 (in millions except per share data):

Year Ended August 31, Increase Percent

Selling, distribution, and administrative expenses 1,212.9 1,163.0 49.9 4.3 %

Percent of net sales 12.0 % 12.7 % (70) bps

Other expense:

Miscellaneous expense (income), net 7.8 (9.1) 16.9 NM

Effective tax rate 22.5 % 22.3 %

NM - not meaningful

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Net Sales

Net sales of $3.95 billion for the year ended August 31, 2023 decreased by $53.9 million, or 1.3%, compared with the prior-year period due to declines in sales within our ABL segment, partially offset by higher sales within our ISG segment. The divestiture from our Sunoptics prismatic skylight business, the acquisition of KE2 Therm, and changes in foreign currency rates did not have a meaningful impact on net sales for the year ended August 31, 2023.

Gross Profit

Gross profit for the year ended August 31, 2023 increased $40.5 million, or 2.4%, to $1.71 billion compared with $1.67 billion for the prior year, and gross profit margin increased 150 basis points to 43.3% for fiscal 2023 compared with 41.8% in the prior-year period. Our gross profit increased compared with the prior year on lower sales as we strategically managed price. This increase was partially offset by higher labor costs as well as the recognition of a $13.0 million charge resulting from the collectability of a supplier warranty obligation owed to us for components we used in products manufactured and sold between 2017 and 2019.

Operating Profit

Selling, distribution, and administrative expenses of $1.21 billion for the year ended August 31, 2023 increased $49.9 million, or 4.3%, compared with the prior year. This increase was due primarily to higher employee-related costs and higher commissions.

We also recognized special charges of $26.9 million during fiscal year 2023. Please refer to the Special Charges footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements within this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further details.

Operating profit for fiscal 2023 was $473.4 million compared with $509.7 million reported for the prior-year period, a decrease of $36.3 million, or 7.1%. The decrease in operating profit for fiscal 2023 compared with fiscal 2022 was due to the recognition of special charges in fiscal 2023 as well as increased operating expenses, partially offset by an increase in gross profit.

Interest Expense, net

Interest expense, net, was $18.9 million and $24.9 million for the years ended August 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The decrease in net interest expense was due to increased investing rates on our interest-bearing cash cash equivalents. compared to the prior year, partially offset by changes in average short-term borrowings outstanding.

Miscellaneous Expense (Income), net

Miscellaneous expense (income), net consists of non-service related components of net periodic pension cost, gains and losses associated with foreign currency-related transactions, and non-operating gains and losses.

We reported net miscellaneous expense of $7.8 million in fiscal 2023 compared with net miscellaneous income of $9.1 million in fiscal 2022. This year-over-year change was due primarily to the recognition of an $11.2 million loss on the sale of our Sunoptics prismatic skylights business in fiscal 2023 and an impairment charge of $2.5 million for one unconsolidated equity investment, as well as higher pension cost. These amounts were partially offset by higher gains on foreign currency-related items compared to the prior year.

The details of the Sunoptics sale are described in the Acquisitions and Divestitures footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The details of the equity investment impairment charge are included in the Fair Value Measurements footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Income Taxes and Net Income

Our effective income tax rate was 22.5% and 22.3% for the years ended August 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Further details regarding income taxes are included in the Income Taxes footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Net income for fiscal 2023 decreased $38.0 million, or 9.9%, to $346.0 million from $384.0 million reported for the prior year. The decrease in net income resulted primarily from a decrease in operating profit compared to the prior-year period.

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Diluted earnings per share for fiscal 2023 was $10.76 compared with $11.08 for the prior-year period, a decrease of $0.32, or 2.9%. This decrease reflects lower net income, partially offset by lower outstanding diluted shares.

Segment Results

The following tables set forth information comparing the operating results of our segments, ABL and ISG, for the year ended August 31, 2023 with the year ended August 31, 2022 (in millions):

Year Ended August 31,

2023 2022 Increase (Decrease) Percent Change

ABL:

Operating profit margin 13.7 % 14.3 % (60) bps

ISG:

ABL net sales for the year ended August 31, 2023 decreased 2.3% compared with the prior-year period due primarily to lower net sales within original equipment manufacturer ("OEM") and other, independent sales network, and corporate accounts channels, partially offset by higher net sales in direct sales network and retail sales channels.

Operating profit for ABL was $509.5 million (13.7% of ABL net sales) for the year ended August 31, 2023 compared to $545.6 million (14.3% of ABL net sales) in the prior-year period, a decrease of $36.1 million. The decrease in operating profit was due primarily to special charges of $25.0 million, the recognition of a $13.0 million charge related to the collectability of a supplier receivable, and lower net sales. These declines were partially offset by our strategic management of price.

ISG net sales for the year ended August 31, 2023 increased 16.9% compared with the prior-year period driven primarily by strong demand for building and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning controls as well as price increases. ISG operating profit was $32.1 million (12.7% of ISG net sales) for the year ended August 31, 2023 compared with $22.7 million (10.5% of ISG net sales) in the prior-year period, an increase of $9.4 million. This increase was due primarily to contributions from higher sales, partially offset by increased employee costs.

Accounting Standards Adopted in Fiscal 2023 and Accounting Standards Yet to Be Adopted

See the New Accounting Pronouncements footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information on recently adopted and upcoming standards.

Critical Accounting Estimates

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations addresses the financial condition and results of operations as reflected in our Consolidated Financial Statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”). As discussed in the Description of Business and Basis of Presentation footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, the preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements as well as reported amounts of revenue and expense during the reporting period. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates and judgments. We base our estimates and judgments on our substantial historical experience and/or other relevant factors, such as projections of future performance, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ from those estimates. We discuss the development of accounting estimates with our Audit Committee of the Board of Directors on a recurring basis. See the Significant Accounting Policies footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a summary of our accounting policies.

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We believe the following accounting topics represent our critical accounting estimates.

Revenue Recognition

We recognize revenue when we transfer control of goods and services to our customers. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration we expect to receive in exchange for goods and services. In the period of revenue recognition, we estimate and record provisions for certain rebates, sales incentives, product returns, and discounts to customers, in most instances, as reductions of revenue. We also maintain one-time or on-going marketing and trade-promotion programs with certain customers that require us to estimate and accrue the expected costs of such programs. Generally, these items are estimated based on customer agreements, historical trends, and expected demand. For sales with multiple deliverables, significant judgment may be required to determine which performance obligations are distinct and should be accounted for separately. We allocate the expected consideration to be collected to each distinct performance obligation based on its standalone selling price. Standalone selling price is generally estimated using a cost plus margin valuation when no observable input is available.

Actual results could differ from estimates, which would require adjustments to recorded amounts. Please refer to the Revenue Recognition footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding estimates related to revenue recognition.

Inventories

Inventories include materials, direct labor, inbound freight, customs, duties, tariffs, and related manufacturing overhead. Inventories are stated on a first-in, first-out basis at the lower of cost and net realizable value. We review inventory quantities on hand and record a provision for excess or obsolete inventory primarily based on estimated future demand and current market conditions. A significant change in customer demand, market conditions, or technology could render certain inventory obsolete and thus could have a material adverse impact on our operating results in the period the change occurs.

Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets

Indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of trade names acquired through multiple acquisitions that are expected to generate cash flows indefinitely. Significant estimates and assumptions were used to both identify and determine the initial fair value of these acquired intangible assets, often with the assistance of third-party valuation specialists. These assumptions include, but are not limited to, estimated future net sales and profitability, customer attrition rates, royalty rates, and discount rates. Goodwill is calculated as the residual value of an acquisition's purchase price less the value of the identifiable net assets and is thus dependent on the appropriate identification and valuation of the net assets obtained in an acquisition.

We review goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment on an annual basis in the fiscal fourth quarter and on an interim basis if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not indicate that the fair value of the goodwill or an indefinite-lived asset is below its carrying value. An impairment loss for goodwill or an indefinite-lived intangible asset would be recognized based on the difference between the carrying value of the asset and its estimated fair value, which would be determined based on either discounted future cash flows or another appropriate fair value method. The evaluation of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles for impairment requires management to use significant judgments and estimates in accordance with U.S. GAAP including, but not limited to, economic, industry, and Company-specific qualitative factors, projected future net sales, operating results, and cash flows.

We currently believe that the estimates used in the evaluation of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles are reasonable, including our calculations of fiscal 2023 trade name impairment charges described below. However, future differences between actual and expected net sales, operating results, and cash flows and/or changes in the discount rates or theoretical royalty rates used could require us to record additional non-cash impairment charges to earnings for the write-down in the value of such assets. Such charges could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial position but not our cash flows from operations.

Goodwill

We performed our annual goodwill impairment analyses on the first day of our fiscal fourth quarter (June 1) for each period presented. Goodwill was tested for impairment at the reporting unit level using a combination of discounted future cash flows and relevant market multiples. Our discounted cash flow analyses required significant assumptions about discount rates, short and long-term growth rates, and future profitability. For the tests performed as of June 1, 2023, we utilized estimated discount rates ranging from 11% to 13%. These rates were based on the

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Capital Asset Pricing Model, which considers a risk-free interest rate, beta, market risk premium, and size premium to determine an appropriate discount rate for a reporting unit. Short-term growth rates were based on management’s forecasted financial results, which consider key business drivers such as specific revenue growth initiatives, market share changes, growth in our addressable market, and general economic factors such as macroeconomic conditions, credit availability, and interest rates. We calculated the discounted cash flows attributable to our reporting units for a 10-year discrete period with a terminal value and compared this calculation to the discounted cash flows generated over a 40-year period to corroborate the reasonableness of assumptions used. The long-term growth rate used in determining terminal value was estimated at 2.5% and was primarily based on our understanding of projections for expected long-term growth in our addressable market and historical long-term performance.

We corroborate the values determined from our discounted cash flow models using a relevant market multiple, generally published earnings and/or revenue multiples. We also reconcile the sum of the fair values for each reporting unit to our market capitalization at the testing date, including consideration of a control premium.

Any reasonably likely change in the assumptions used in these analyses, including revenue growth rates, discount rates, long-term growth rates, or relevant multiples would not cause the carrying value of any reporting unit to exceed its estimated fair value as determined under the goodwill impairment analysis. See the Significant Accounting Policies footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details.

Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets

We performed our annual indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment analyses on the first day of our fiscal fourth quarter (June 1) for each period presented. As of June 1, 2023, the current fiscal year testing date, we held 13 indefinite-lived intangible assets with an aggregate carrying value of $173.4 million. We utilized significant assumptions to estimate the fair value of these indefinite-lived trade names using a fair value model based on discounted future cash flows (“fair value model”) in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement (“ASC 820”). Future cash flows associated with each of our indefinite-lived trade names are calculated by multiplying a theoretical royalty rate a willing third party would pay for use of the particular trade name by estimated future net sales attributable to the relevant trade name. The present value of the resulting after-tax cash flows is our current estimate of the fair value of each trade name. This fair value model requires us to make several significant assumptions, including specific estimated future net sales (including short and long-term growth rates), a royalty rate, and a discount rate for each trade name.

Our fiscal 2023 analyses resulted in impairment charges and the determination that certain assets no longer had indefinite lives. As of August 31, 2023, we held eight indefinite-lived intangible assets with an aggregate carrying value of $135.6 million. See the Significant Accounting Policies and Fair Value Measurement footnotes of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details regarding the assumptions used and results of our annual impairment tests for the periods presented.

Share-based Payment Expense

We recognize compensation cost for share-based payment transactions in the financial statements under the provisions of ASC Topic 718, Compensation—Stock Compensation (“ASC 718”). Restricted stock awards, performance stock awards, stock options, and director stock units representing certain deferrals into the Nonemployee Director Deferred Compensation Plan (the “Director Plan”) are valued based on their estimated grant date fair values. Depending on the nature of the grant, an award's fair value is based on the fair value of our common stock on the grant date, a Black-Scholes model, or a Monte Carlo simulation.

We generally recognize compensation cost for share-based payment transactions on a straight-line basis over an award's requisite service period, derived service period, or expected performance period. In certain circumstances, such as when a performance award is subject to graded vesting, we apply the accelerated attribution method to recognize compensation cost related to our share-based payment awards. When the actual number of awards earned is based on future performance, we recognize expense when it becomes probable that the performance metric will be satisfied.

Additionally, we estimate forfeitures of all share-based awards at the time of grant. We adjust forfeiture estimates for awards through their vesting dates to recognize compensation cost only for awards that actually vest. Forfeitures are estimated based on historical experience. If factors change causing different assumptions to be made in future periods, estimated compensation expense may differ significantly from that recorded in the current period.

See the Share-based Payments footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on these awards, including assumptions used in estimating the fair value of our awards.

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Product Warranty and Recall Costs

Our products generally have a standard warranty term of five years. We accrue for the estimated amount of future warranty costs when the related revenue is recognized. Estimated future warranty costs are primarily based on historical experience of identified warranty claims. Estimated costs related to product warranty and recall costs outside of our historical experience, which could include significant product recalls or formal campaigns soliciting repair or return of a product, are accrued when they are deemed to be probable and can be reasonably estimated. Any estimated or actual loss recoveries that offset our costs and payments are reflected as assets based on the timing of receipt of recovery net of any amounts deemed uncollectible.

We are fully self-insured for product warranty costs. Although we expect that historical activity will continue to be the best indicator of future warranty costs, there can be no assurance that future warranty costs will not exceed historical amounts. If actual future warranty or recall costs exceed recorded amounts, additional accruals may be required, which could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations and cash flow.

We also sell certain service-type warranties that extend coverages for products beyond their base warranties. We account for service-type warranties as distinct performance obligations, allocate an appropriate amount of transaction price to these transactions, and recognize revenue for these contracts ratably over the life of the additional warranty period. We allocate transaction price to our service-type warranties largely based on expectations of cost plus margin based on our estimate of future claims. These estimates are subject to a higher level of estimation uncertainty than other estimates, as we have less experience in costs in the extended warranty period. Claims related to service-type warranties are expensed as incurred.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements and Information

This filing contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “Act”). Forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements that describe or relate to the Company’s plans, initiatives, projections, vision, goals, targets, commitments, expectations, objectives, prospects, strategies, or financial outlook, and the assumptions underlying or relating thereto. In some cases, we may use words such as “expect,” “believe,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “indicate,” “project,” “predict,” “plan,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “would,” “potential,” and words of similar meaning, as well as other words or expressions referencing future events, conditions, or circumstances, to identify forward-looking statements. We intend these forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the Act. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Our forward-looking statements are based on our current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions, which may not prove to be accurate, and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of our control. These risks and uncertainties could cause actual events or results to differ materially from our historical experience and management’s present expectations or projections. These risks and uncertainties are discussed in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including this annual report on Form 10-K (including, but not limited to, Part I, Item 1a. Risk Factors), quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and current reports on Form 8-K. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect any events or circumstances after the date of this quarterly report or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

Item 7a.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.

General

We are exposed to worldwide market risks that may impact our Consolidated Balance Sheets, Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, and Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity due primarily to changing interest and foreign exchange rates. We do not currently engage in significant commodity hedging transactions for raw materials. The following discussion provides additional information regarding our market risks.

Interest Rates

Interest rate fluctuations expose variable-rate debt of the organization to changes in interest expense and cash flows. As of August 31, 2023, our long-term debt consisted primarily of fixed-rate senior unsecured notes. A fluctuation in interest rates would not affect interest expense or cash flows related to the Company’s fixed-rate debt.

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However, a 10% increase in market interest rates at August 31, 2023 would have decreased the estimated fair value of our senior unsecured notes by approximately $14.2 million. As of August 31, 2023, we had no borrowings outstanding on our credit facility. Interest incurred on these borrowings is not significant to our overall results of operations or cash flows. See the Debt and Lines of Credit footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements contained in this Form 10-K for additional information.

Foreign Exchange Rates

The majority of our net sales, expense, and capital purchases are transacted in U.S. dollars. However, exposure with respect to foreign exchange rate fluctuation exists due to our operations in Mexico and Canada, where a significant portion of products sold are produced or sourced from the United States, and, to a lesser extent, in Europe. Based on fiscal 2023 performance, a hypothetical depreciation of 10% in the value of the Canadian dollar in relation to the U.S. dollar would negatively impact operating profit by approximately $11.9 million, while a hypothetical 10% appreciation in the value of the Canadian dollar in relation to the U.S. dollar would favorably impact operating profit by approximately $14.5 million. In addition to products and services sold in Mexico, a significant portion of the goods sold in the United States are manufactured in Mexico. A hypothetical 10% decrease in the value of the Mexican peso in relation to the U.S. dollar would favorably impact operating profit by approximately $19.4 million, while a hypothetical 10% increase in the value of the Mexican peso in relation to the U.S. dollar would negatively impact operating profit by approximately $23.7 million. The individual impacts to the operating profit of hypothetical currency fluctuations in the Canadian dollar and Mexican peso have been calculated in isolation from any potential responses to address such exchange rate changes in our foreign markets.

Our exposure to foreign currency risk related to our operations in Europe is immaterial and has been excluded from this analysis.

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Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

Index to Consolidated Financial Statements

Page

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting 29

Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 30

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of August 31, 2023 and 2022 33

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 37

Note 1 — Description of Business and Basis of Presentation 37

Note 2 — Significant Accounting Policies 38

Note 3 — New Accounting Pronouncements 45

Note 4 — Acquisitions and Divestitures 46

Note 5 — Fair Value Measurements 47

Note 6 — Leases 50

Note 7 — Debt and Lines of Credit 51

Note 8 — Commitments and Contingencies 52

Note 9 — Segment Information 55

Note 10 — Revenue Recognition 56

Note 11 — Share-based Payments 58

Note 12 — Pension and Defined Contribution Plans 62

Note 13 — Special Charges 69

Note 14 — Common Stock and Related Matters 70

Note 15— Income Taxes 72

Note 16 — Supplemental Disaggregated Information 74

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MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

ACUITY BRANDS, INC.

The management of Acuity Brands, Inc. is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

The Company’s management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of August 31, 2023. In making this assessment, the Company’s management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013 Framework). Based on this assessment, management believes that, as of August 31, 2023, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting is effective.

Management’s assessment of and conclusion on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting did not include the internal controls of the acquired business of KE2 Therm Solutions, Inc., (“KE2 Therm”), which is included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements as of August 31, 2023 and for the period from the acquisition date of May 15, 2023 through August 31, 2023. As of August 31, 2023, KE2 Therm constituted less than 2% of both the Company’s consolidated assets and stockholders' equity. For the year ended August 31, 2023, KE2 Therm constituted less than 1% of both the Company's net sales and pre-tax income.

Ernst & Young LLP (PCAOB ID: 42), the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, has issued an audit report on its audit of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. This report dated October 26, 2023 is included within this Form 10-K.

/s/ NEIL M. ASHE /s/ KAREN J. HOLCOM

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors of Acuity Brands, Inc.

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Acuity Brands, Inc. (the Company) as of August 31, 2023 and 2022, the related consolidated statements of comprehensive income, cash flows and stockholders’ equity for each of the three years in the period ended August 31, 2023, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at August 31, 2023 and 2022, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended August 31, 2023, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of August 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework), and our report dated October 26, 2023 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Basis for Opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Critical Audit Matter

The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective or complex judgments. The communication of the critical audit matter does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the account or disclosures to which it relates.

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Valuation of Indefinite-Lived Trade Names

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2002.

Atlanta, Georgia

October 26, 2023

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors of Acuity Brands, Inc.

Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

We have audited Acuity Brands, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of August 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria). In our opinion, Acuity Brands, Inc. (the Company) maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of August 31, 2023, based on the COSO criteria.

As indicated in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting, management’s assessment of and conclusion on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting did not include the internal controls of the acquired business of KE2 Therm Solutions, Inc. (KE2 Therm), which is included in the 2023 consolidated financial statements of the Company and constituted less than 2% of both the Company’s consolidated assets and stockholders’ equity, as of August 31, 2023 and less than 1% of both net sales and pre-tax income, for the year then ended. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting of the Company also did not include an evaluation of the internal control over financial reporting of KE2 Therm.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of August 31, 2023 and 2022, the related consolidated statements of comprehensive income, cash flows and stockholders’ equity for each of the three years in the period ended August 31, 2023, and the related notes and our report dated October 26, 2023 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Basis for Opinion

The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.

Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Atlanta, Georgia

October 26, 2023

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ACUITY BRANDS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In millions, except share data)

ASSETS

Current assets:

Cash and cash equivalents $ 397.9 $ 223.2

Prepayments and other current assets 73.5 91.2

Property, plant, and equipment, net 297.6 276.5

Operating lease right-of-use assets 84.1 74.9

Deferred income taxes 3.0 1.3

Other long-term assets 49.5 48.0

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Current liabilities:

Current maturities of debt — 18.0

Current operating lease liabilities 19.7 15.7

Long-term operating lease liabilities 75.5 67.4

Accrued pension liabilities 38.4 41.4

Commitments and contingencies (see Commitments and Contingencies footnote)

Stockholders’ equity:

Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; 50,000,000 shares authorized; none issued — —

Accumulated other comprehensive loss (112.6) (125.8)

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 3,408.5 $ 3,480.2

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

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ACUITY BRANDS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(In millions, except per-share data)

Year Ended August 31,

Special charges 26.9 — 3.3

Other expense:

Miscellaneous expense (income), net 7.8 (9.1) 8.2

Earnings per share(1):

Dividends declared per share $ 0.52 $ 0.52 $ 0.52

Comprehensive income:

Other comprehensive income (loss) items, net of tax:

Foreign currency translation adjustments 8.5 (33.3) 13.3

Other comprehensive income (loss) items, net of tax 13.2 (27.6) 34.5

______________________________

(1) Earnings per share is calculated using unrounded numbers. Amounts in the table may not recalculate exactly due to rounding.

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

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ACUITY BRANDS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In millions)

Year Ended August 31,

Cash flows from operating activities:

Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash flows from operating activities:

Gain on the sale or disposal of property, plant, and equipment — (2.3) (0.1)

Loss on sale of a business 11.2 — —

Deferred income taxes (47.8) 0.6 (2.7)

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions

Prepayments and other current assets 21.4 (17.6) (18.2)

Cash flows from investing activities:

Purchases of property, plant, and equipment (66.7) (56.5) (43.8)

Proceeds from sale of property, plant, and equipment — 8.9 4.7

Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired (35.5) (12.9) (75.3)

Other investing activities 11.5 (1.7) (3.5)

Net cash used for investing activities (90.7) (62.2) (117.9)

Cash flows from financing activities:

Borrowings on credit facility, net of repayments (18.0) 18.0 —

Issuances of long-term debt — — 493.8

Repayments of long-term debt — — (401.1)

Proceeds from stock option exercises and other 2.7 12.5 3.2

Payments of taxes withheld on net settlement of equity awards (14.2) (8.6) (4.5)

Other financing activities — (1.4) —

Net cash used for financing activities (312.9) (512.4) (362.6)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents 0.2 (9.8) 2.4

Net change in cash and cash equivalents 174.7 (268.1) (69.4)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 223.2 491.3 560.7

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year $ 397.9 $ 223.2 $ 491.3

Supplemental cash flow information:

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

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ACUITY BRANDS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(In millions)

Common Stock Outstanding

Other comprehensive income, net of tax — — — — 34.5 — 34.5

Employee stock purchase plan issuances — — 1.0 — — — 1.0

Cash dividends of $0.52 per share paid on common stock — — — (19.1) — — (19.1)

Stock options exercised — — 2.2 — — — 2.2

Cumulative effect of adoption of ASC 326 — — — (0.2) — — (0.2)

Repurchases of common stock (3.8) — — — — (436.5) (436.5)

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax — — — — (27.6) — (27.6)

Employee stock purchase plan issuances — — 1.8 — — — 1.8

Cash dividends of $0.52 per share paid on common stock — — — (18.1) — — (18.1)

Stock options exercised 0.1 — 10.7 — — — 10.7

Repurchases of common stock (2.9) — — — — (511.7) (511.7)

Other comprehensive income, net of tax — — — — 13.2 — 13.2

Employee stock purchase plan issuances — — 1.5 — — — 1.5

Cash dividends of $0.52 per share paid on common stock — — — (16.8) — — (16.8)

Stock options exercised — — 1.2 — — — 1.2

Repurchases of common stock (1.6) — — — — (269.3) (269.3)

______________________________

(1)Share activity and balances above calculated using rounded numbers.

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

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ACUITY BRANDS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 1 — Description of Business and Basis of Presentation

Acuity Brands, Inc. (referred to herein as “we,” “our,” “us,” the “Company,” or similar references) is a market-leading industrial technology company. We use technology to solve problems in spaces and light. Through our two business segments, Acuity Brands Lighting and Lighting Controls (“ABL”) and the Intelligent Spaces Group (“ISG”), we design, manufacture, and bring to market products and services that make a valuable difference in people's lives. We achieve growth through the development of innovative new products and services, including lighting, lighting controls, building management systems, and location-aware applications.

ABL Segment

Our ABL strategy is to increase product vitality, improve service levels, use technology to improve and differentiate both our products and our services, and drive productivity. ABL's portfolio of lighting solutions includes commercial, architectural, and specialty lighting in addition to lighting controls and components that can be combined to create integrated lighting controls systems. We offer devices such as luminaires that predominantly utilize light emitting diode (“LED”) technology designed to optimize energy efficiency and comfort for various indoor and outdoor applications. ABL's portfolio of products includes but is not limited to the following brands: A-LightTM, AculuxTM, American Electric Lighting®, CycloneTM, Dark to Light®, eldoLED®, Eureka®, Gotham®, Healthcare Lighting®,Holophane®, Hydrel®, IndyTM, IOTA®, Juno®, Lithonia Lighting®, Luminaire LEDTM, Luminis®, Mark Architectural LightingTM, nLight®, OPTOTRONIC®, Peerless®, RELOC® Wiring Solutions, and Sensor SwitchTM.

Principal customers of ABL include electrical distributors, retail home improvement centers, electric utilities, national accounts, original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) customers, digital retailers, lighting showrooms, and energy service companies. Our customers are located in North America and select international markets that serve new construction, renovation and retrofit, and maintenance and repair applications. ABL's lighting and lighting controls solutions are sold primarily through a network of independent sales agencies that cover specific geographic areas and market channels, by internal sales representatives, through consumer retail channels, directly to large corporate accounts, and directly to OEM customers. Products are delivered directly from our manufacturing facilities or through a network of distribution centers, regional warehouses, and commercial warehouses using both common carriers and an internally-managed truck fleet.

ISG Segment

Our ISG strategy is to make spaces smarter, safer, and greener by connecting the edge to the cloud. ISG offers building management solutions and building management software. Our building management solutions include products for controlling heating, ventilation, air conditioning (“HVAC”); lighting; shades; refrigeration; and building access that deliver end-to-end optimization of those building systems. Our intelligent building software enhances the occupant experience, improves building system management, and automates labor intensive tasks while delivering operational energy efficiency and cost reductions. Through a connected and converged building system architecture, our software delivers different applications, allows clients to upgrade over time with natural refresh cycles, and deploys new capabilities. Customers of ISG primarily include system integrators as well as retail stores, airports, and enterprise campuses throughout North America and select international locations. ISG products and solutions are marketed under multiple brand names, including but not limited, to Atrius®, Distech Controls®, and KE2 Therm Solutions®.

Basis of Presentation

We have prepared the Consolidated Financial Statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) to present the financial position, results of operations, and cash flows of Acuity Brands, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries.

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ACUITY BRANDS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 2 — Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation

The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Acuity Brands, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries after elimination of intercompany transactions and accounts.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements and related disclosures in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expense during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Revenue Recognition

Refer to the Revenue Recognition footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to our revenue recognition accounting policies.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash in excess of daily requirements is invested in time deposits and marketable securities and is included in the accompanying balance sheets at fair value. We consider time deposits and marketable securities with an original maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents.

Accounts Receivable

We record accounts receivable at net realizable value. This value includes a reserve for doubtful accounts to reflect our estimate of expected credit losses over the contractual term of our receivables. Our estimation of current expected credit losses reflects our considerations of historical write-offs, an analysis of past due accounts based on the contractual terms of the receivables, and the economic status of customers, if known. We additionally consider the impact of general economic conditions, including construction spending, unemployment rates, and macroeconomic growth, on our customers' future ability to meet their obligations. We believe that the reserve is sufficient to cover uncollectible amounts; however, there can be no assurance that unanticipated future business conditions of customers will not have a negative impact on our results of operations, financial condition, or cash flows.

Concentrations of Credit Risk

Concentrations of credit risk with respect to receivables, which are typically unsecured, are generally limited due to the wide variety of customers and markets using our lighting, lighting controls, building management systems, and location-aware applications as well as their dispersion across many different geographic areas. One customer accounted for approximately 10% of receivables at August 31, 2023 and at August 31, 2022. No single customer accounted for more than 10% of net sales in fiscal 2023, 2022, or 2021.

Reclassifications

We may reclassify certain prior period amounts to conform to the current year presentation. No material reclassifications occurred during the current period.

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ACUITY BRANDS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Inventories

Inventories include materials, direct labor, inbound freight, customs, duties, tariffs, and related manufacturing overhead. Inventories are stated on a first-in, first-out basis at the lower of cost and net realizable value and consist of the following as of the dates presented (in millions):

Raw materials, supplies, and work in process(1) $ 214.0 $ 252.6

Inventories excluding reserves 394.3 516.6

_______________________________________

(1) Due to the immaterial amount of estimated work in process and the short lead times for the conversion of raw materials to finished goods, we do not believe the segregation of raw materials and work in process is meaningful information.

We review inventory quantities on hand and record a provision for excess or obsolete inventory primarily based on estimated future demand and current market conditions. A significant change in customer demand or market conditions could render certain inventory obsolete and could have a material adverse impact on our operating results in the period the change occurs.The following table summarizes the changes in our inventory reserves for the periods presented (in millions):

Year Ended August 31,

Disposals of reserved inventory (20.6) (22.5) (32.7)

Foreign currency translation adjustments (0.7) (0.3) —

Assets Held for Sale

We classify assets as held for sale when a plan for disposal is developed and approved, the asset is available for immediate sale, an active program to locate a buyer at a price reasonable in relation to current fair value is initiated, and transfer of the asset is expected to be completed within one year. We cease the depreciation and amortization of the assets when all of these criteria have been met and generally reflect balances within Prepayments and other current assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. We did not have any assets classified as held for sale at August 31, 2023 or August 31, 2022.

During the year ended August 31, 2022, we sold one building classified as held for sale at August 31, 2021 with a total carrying value of $6.6 million for a gain of approximately $2.3 million. This gain is reflected in Selling, distribution, and administrative expenses within our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.

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ACUITY BRANDS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Goodwill and Other Intangibles

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill during the periods presented by segment are summarized as follows (in millions):

ABL ISG Total

Adjustments to provisional amounts from acquired businesses 2.3 — 2.3

Foreign currency translation adjustments (10.3) (2.4) (12.7)

Additions from acquired businesses — 15.2 15.2

Adjustments to provisional amounts from acquired businesses — (0.2) (0.2)

Derecognitions for divestitures (0.7) — (0.7)

Foreign currency translation adjustments 0.9 (1.6) (0.7)

Through multiple acquisitions, we acquired definite-lived intangible assets that are amortized over their estimated useful lives. Indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of trade names that are expected to generate cash flows indefinitely. Significant estimates and assumptions were used to determine the initial fair value of these acquired intangible assets, including estimated future short-term and long-term net sales and profitability, customer attrition rates, royalty rates, and discount rates. Certain of our intangible assets are attributable to foreign operations and are impacted by currency translation due to movements in foreign currency rates year over year. Summarized information for our intangible assets is as follows as of the dates presented (in millions except amortization periods):

Definite-lived intangible assets:

Indefinite-lived trade names $ 135.6 $ 173.7

We recorded amortization expense of $42.1 million, $41.0 million, and $40.7 million related to acquired intangible assets during fiscal 2023, 2022, and2021, respectively. Amortization expense is generally recorded on a straight-line basis and is expected to be approximately $39.6 million in fiscal 2024, $32.2 million in fiscal 2025, $29.5 million in fiscal 2026, $28.0 million in fiscal 2027, and $23.9 million in fiscal 2028.

We test goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment on an annual basis as of the first date of our fourth fiscal quarter (June 1) or more frequently if facts and circumstances indicate an asset is more likely than not impaired, as required by Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 350, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other (“ASC 350”). ASC 350 allows for an optional qualitative analysis for goodwill to determine the likelihood of impairment. If the qualitative review results in a more likely than not probability of impairment, a quantitative analysis is required. The qualitative step may be bypassed entirely in favor of a quantitative test.

The quantitative analysis for goodwill tests for impairments by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying value, including goodwill. Reporting unit fair values can be determined based on a combination of valuation techniques including the expected present value of future cash flows, a market multiple approach, and a comparable transaction approach. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, goodwill is not

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ACUITY BRANDS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

considered impaired. Conversely, if the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment charge for the difference would be recorded.

In fiscal 2023, 2022, and 2021, we used a quantitative analysis to calculate the fair value of our reporting units using a combination of discounted future cash flows and relevant market multiples. The analysis for goodwill did not result in an impairment charge during fiscal 2023, 2022, or 2021.

We performed our annual indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment analyses on the first day of our fiscal fourth quarter (June 1) for each period presented. As of June 1, 2023, the current fiscal year testing date, we held 13 indefinite-lived intangible assets with an aggregate carrying value of $173.4 million. The impairment test for indefinite-lived trade names compares the fair value of a trade name with its carrying value. If the carrying amount exceeds the estimated fair value, an impairment loss would be recorded for the amount of the excess. We estimate the fair value of indefinite-lived trade names using a fair value model based on discounted future cash flows. Significant assumptions, including estimated future short-term and long-term net sales, royalty rates, and discount rates, are used in the determination of estimated fair value for indefinite-lived trade names. Refer to the Fair Value Measurement footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further information regarding significant assumptions used in our fiscal 2023 impairment test.

Based on the results of the indefinite-lived intangible asset analyses for fiscal 2023, we recorded an impairment charge of $14.0 million for six trade names within Special Charges in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income related to our ABL segment. We also determined five of these trade names no longer have indefinite lives. These trade names were classified as definite-lived as of June 1, 2023 and will be amortized over 15 years. The impairment analyses for fiscal 2023 of the other seven indefinite-lived intangible assets indicated that their fair values exceeded their carrying values.

The impairment analyses of our indefinite-lived intangible assets indicated that their fair values exceeded their carrying values for fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2021.

Other Long-Term Assets

Other long-term assets consist of the following items whose economic benefits are expected to be realized greater than one year from the dates presented (in millions):

Deferred costs and other assets(1) (2) $ 29.9 $ 28.1

Investments in debt and equity securities 7.2 11.9

Pensions plans in which plan assets exceed benefit obligation 12.4 8.0

Total other long-term assets $ 49.5 $ 48.0

_______________________________________

(1)Estimated recoveries of warranty and recall costs, net of estimated credit losses, expected to be recovered greater than one year from the respective balance sheet dates are included in this category.

(2)Included within this category are company-owned life insurance investments. We maintain life insurance policies on 56 former employees primarily to satisfy obligations under certain deferred compensation plans. These company-owned life insurance policies are presented net of loans that are secured by these policies. This program is frozen, and no new policies were issued in the three-year period ended August 31, 2023.

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ACUITY BRANDS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Other Current Liabilities

Other current liabilities consist of the following as of the dates presented (in millions):

Customer incentive programs(1) $ 31.6 $ 40.7

Current deferred revenues(1) 14.1 11.4

Warranty and recall costs(2) 22.8 22.4

Interest on long-term debt(4) 2.3 2.3

Total other current liabilities $ 186.7 $ 214.1

____________________________________

(1)Refer to the Revenue Recognition footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

(2)Refer to the Commitments and Contingencies footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

(3)Includes accruals for income, property, sales and use, and value added taxes.

(4)Refer to the Debt and Lines of Credit footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Other Long-Term Liabilities

Other long-term liabilities consist of the following as of the dates presented (in millions):

Unrecognized tax position liabilities, including interest(3) 23.4 22.0

Self-insurance liabilities(4) 3.8 3.7

Product warranty and recall costs(4) 8.8 4.9

Other — 0.8

Total other long-term liabilities $ 129.2 $ 128.9

____________________________________

(1)We maintain several non-qualified retirement plans for the benefit of eligible employees, primarily deferred compensation plans. The deferred compensation plans provide for elective deferrals of an eligible employee’s compensation and, in some cases, matching contributions by the organization. We maintain life insurance policies on certain former officers and other key employees as a means of satisfying a portion of these obligations.

(2)Refer to the Revenue Recognition footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

(3)Refer to the Income Taxes footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

(4)Refer to the Commitments and Contingencies footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Shipping and Handling Fees and Costs

We include shipping and handling fees billed to customers in Net sales in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.

When a product is sold, the associated shipping and handling costs are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income based on their function. Costs associated with inbound freight and freight between manufacturing facilities and distribution centers are generally recorded in Cost of products sold, which may be capitalized into inventory. Other shipping and handling costs, which primarily include amounts incurred to transfer finished goods to a customer's desired location, are included in Selling, distribution, and administrative expensesand totaled $141.7 million, $151.2 million, and $132.0 million in fiscal 2023, 2022,and 2021, respectively.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Share-based Payments

We account for stock options, restricted stock, performance stock units, and stock units representing certain deferrals into the Nonemployee Director Deferred Compensation Plan (the “Director Plan”) or the Supplemental Deferred Savings Plan (“SDSP”) (both of which are discussed further in the Share-based Payments footnote) based on their grant-date fair values estimated under the provisions of ASC Topic 718, Compensation—Stock Compensation (“ASC 718”).

We generally recognize compensation cost for share-based payment transactions on a straight-line basis over an award's requisite service period as defined by ASC 718. We apply the accelerated attribution method in certain circumstances, such as when a performance stock unit is subject to graded vesting. For awards subject to a market condition, we consider both actual and derived service periods, as well as the expected performance period, to determine the appropriate compensation recognition method. We have recorded share-based payment expense, net of estimated forfeitures, in Selling, distribution, and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Share-based payment expense includes expense related to restricted stock, performance stock units, options issued, and stock units deferred into the Director Plan. We recorded $42.0 million, $37.4 million, and $32.5 million of share-based payment expense for the years ended August 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. The total income tax benefit recognized for share-based payment expense was $7.2 million, $9.6 million, and $6.5 million for the years ended August 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively.

Excess tax benefits and/or expense related to share-based payment awards are reported within Income tax expense on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. We recognized net excess tax benefit related to share-based payment cost of $1.5 million and $4.8 million for the years ended August 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. We recognized net excess tax expense related to share-based payment cost of$0.5 million for the year ended August 31, 2021.

See the Share-based Payments footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.

Property, Plant, and Equipment

Property, plant, and equipment is initially recorded at cost and depreciated principally on a straight-line basis using estimated useful lives of plant and equipment (3 to 40 years for buildings and related improvements and 2 to 15 years for machinery and equipment) for financial reporting purposes. Accelerated depreciation methods are used for income tax purposes. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the life of the lease or the estimated useful life of the improvement. Land is not depreciated. Depreciation expense amounted to $51.1 million, $53.8 million, and $59.4 million during fiscal 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. The balance of property, plant, and equipment consists of the following as of the dates presented (in millions):

Buildings and leasehold improvements 210.9 202.3

Total property, plant, and equipment, at cost 961.8 891.9

Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization (664.2) (615.4)

Property, plant, and equipment, net $ 297.6 $ 276.5

Research and Development

Research and development (“R&D”) expense consists of compensation, payroll taxes, employee benefits, materials, supplies, and other administrative costs, but it does not include all new or enhanced product development costs. R&D expense is expensed as incurred and is included in Selling, distribution, and administrative expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. R&D expense amounted to $97.1 million, $95.1 million, and $88.3 million during fiscal 2023, 2022, and2021, respectively.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Advertising

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred and are included within Selling, distribution, and administrative expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. These costs totaled $21.9 million, $19.3 million, and $15.9 million during fiscal 2023, 2022, and2021, respectively.

Interest Expense, Net

Interest expense, net, is comprised primarily of interest expense on long-term debt, line of credit borrowings, and loans that are secured by and presented net of company-owned life insurance policies on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Interest expense is partially offset by interest income earned on cash and cash equivalents.

The following table summarizes the components of Interest expense, net during the periods presented (in millions):

Year Ended August 31,

Interest income (9.0) (2.1) (1.0)

Miscellaneous Expense (Income), Net

Miscellaneous expense (income), net, is comprised primarily of non-service related components of net periodic pension cost, gains and losses associated with foreign currency-related transactions, and non-operating gains and losses. During fiscal 2023 we reported an $11.2 million loss of the sale of our Sunoptics prismatic skylights business. The details of the Sunoptics sale are described in the Acquisitions and Divestitures footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Amounts relating to foreign currency transactions consisted of net gains of $8.4 million in fiscal 2023, net gains of $5.3 million in fiscal 2022, and net losses of $1.3 million in fiscal 2021.

Income Taxes

We are taxed at statutory corporate rates after adjusting income reported for financial statement purposes for certain items that are treated differently for income tax purposes. Deferred income tax expenses or benefits result from changes during the year in cumulative temporary differences between the tax basis and book basis of assets and liabilities. Refer to the Income Taxes footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Foreign Currency Translation

The functional currency for foreign operations is generally the local currency where the foreign operations are domiciled. The translation of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars is performed for asset and liability accounts using exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet dates and for revenue and expense accounts using a weighted average exchange rate each month during the year. The gains or losses resulting from the balance sheet translation are included in Foreign currency translation adjustments in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income and are excluded from net income.

Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive income represents a measure of all changes in equity that result from recognized transactions and other economic events other than transactions with owners in their capacity as owners. Other comprehensive income (loss) items includes foreign currency translation and pension adjustments.

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The following table presents the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive loss net of tax during the periods presented (in millions):

Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications (33.3) 0.7 (32.6)

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss (1) — 5.0 5.0

Net current period other comprehensive (loss) income (33.3) 5.7 (27.6)

Other comprehensive income before reclassifications 8.5 0.4 8.9

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss (1) — 4.3 4.3

Net current period other comprehensive income 8.5 4.7 13.2

_______________________________________

(1)The before tax amounts of the defined benefit pension plan items are included in net periodic pension cost. See the Pension and Defined Contribution Plans footnotefor additional details.

The following table presents the tax expense or benefit allocated to each component of other comprehensive income (loss) during the periods presented (in millions):

Year Ended August 31,

Defined benefit pension plans:

Tax adjustments — — — — — — — (3.2) (3.2)

Amortization of defined benefit pension items:

Note 3 — New Accounting Pronouncements

Accounting Standards Adopted in Fiscal 2023

Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2021-08, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Accounting for Contract Assets and Contract Liabilities from Contracts with Customers (“ASU 2021-08”)

In October 2021, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued ASU 2021-08, which requires companies to recognize and measure contract assets and contract liabilities acquired in a business combination as if the acquiring company originated the related revenue contracts. ASU 2021-08 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, or our fiscal 2024, with early adoption permitted, including in an interim period. We early adopted ASU 2021-08 as of May 15, 2023, on a prospective basis, as permitted by the standard, and applied its provisions to our current period acquisition. This standard did not have a material effect on our fiscal 2023 acquisition or our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

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Accounting Standards Yet to Be Adopted

ASU 2023-02, Investments—Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323): Accounting for Investments in Tax Credit Structures Using the Proportional Amortization Method (“ASU 2023-02”)

In March 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-02, which expands the permitted use of the proportional amortization method of accounting for certain tax-related investments if certain conditions are met. ASU 2023-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, or our fiscal 2025, with early adoption permitted, including in an interim period. As of August 31, 2023, we do not hold any qualifying investments. Therefore, we do not expect ASU 2023-02 to have a material impact on our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

All other newly issued accounting pronouncements not yet effective have been deemed either immaterial or not applicable.

Note 4 — Acquisitions and Divestitures

Acquisitions

The following discussion relates to fiscal 2023 and 2021 acquisitions. There were no acquisitions during fiscal 2022. The $12.9 million of cash outflows reflected in the fiscal 2022 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows relate to fiscal 2021 acquisitions primarily for working capital settlements.

Fiscal 2023 Acquisitions

On May 15, 2023, using cash on hand, we acquired all of the equity interests of KE2 Therm Solutions, Inc. (“KE2 Therm”). KE2 Therm develops and provides intelligent refrigeration control solutions that deliver the precision of digital controls to promote safety, efficiency, and reliability, while delivering cost savings to the customer. This acquisition is intended to expand ISG's technology and controls product portfolio and reach new customers.

We accounted for the acquisition of KE2 Therm in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 805, Business Combinations (“ASC 805”). Acquired assets and liabilities were recorded at their estimated acquisition-date fair values. Acquisition-related costs were expensed as incurred and were not material to our financial statements. The aggregate purchase price of these acquisitions reflects preliminary goodwill within the ISG segment of $15.0 million at August 31, 2023, which is not expected to be deductible for tax purposes. The goodwill is primarily comprised of expected benefits related to expanding ISG's technology and controls product portfolio as well as the trained workforce acquired with these businesses and expected synergies from combining the operations of KE2 Therm with our operations.

We additionally recorded preliminary gross intangible assets of $18.0 million as of August 31, 2023, which reflect estimates for definite-lived intangibles with a preliminary estimated weighted average useful life of approximately 15 years.

Amounts recorded for acquired assets and liabilities are deemed to be provisional until disclosed otherwise as we continue to gather information related to the identification and valuation of acquired assets and liabilities including, but not limited to, intangible assets and tax-related items. The operating results of KE2 Therm have been included in our financial statements since the date of acquisition and are not material to our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

Fiscal 2021 Acquisitions

ams OSRAM's North American Digital Systems Business

On July 1, 2021, using cash on hand, we acquired certain assets and liabilities of ams OSRAM’s North American Digital Systems business (“OSRAM DS”). This acquisition is intended to enhance our LED driver and controls technology portfolio and accelerate our innovation, expand our access to market through a more fulsome OEM product offering, and give us more control over our supply chain.

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Rockpile Ventures, Inc.

On May 18, 2021, using cash on hand, we acquired all of the equity interests of Rockpile Ventures, Inc., (“Rockpile Ventures”) an accelerator of edge artificial intelligence (“AI”) startups. Rockpile Ventures helps early-stage artificial intelligence companies drive co-engineering and co-selling partnerships with major cloud ecosystems, enabling faster adoption from proof-of-concept trials to market scale.

Accounting for Fiscal 2021 Acquisitions

We accounted for the acquisitions of Rockpile Ventures and OSRAM DS (collectively the “2021 Acquisitions”) in accordance with ASC 805. We finalized the acquisition accounting for the 2021 Acquisitions during fiscal 2022. There were no material changes to our financial statements as a result of the finalization of the acquisition accounting for these acquisitions.

The aggregate purchase price of the 2021 Acquisitions reflects goodwill of $12.3 million and definite-lived customer-based intangible assets of $6.7 million, which have a useful life of approximately 11 years. Goodwill recognized from the 2021 Acquisitions is comprised primarily of expected synergies from obtaining more control over our supply chain and technology, combining the operations of the acquired business with our operations, and acquiring the associated trained workforce. Goodwill from the 2021 Acquisitions totaling $9.2 million is tax deductible.

Divestitures

We sold our Sunoptics prismatic skylights business in November 2022. We transferred assets with a total carrying value of $15.1 million, which primarily consisted of intangibles with definite lives, inventories, and allocated goodwill from the ABL segment. We recognized a pre-tax loss on the sale of $11.2 million within Miscellaneous expense (income), net on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Additionally, we recorded impairment charges for certain retained assets as well as associate severance and other costs related to the sale. These items are included within Special charges on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. See the Special Charges and Fair Value Measurements footnotes of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details. There were no divestitures during fiscal 2022 or 2021.

Note 5 — Fair Value Measurements

We determine fair value measurements based on the assumptions a market participant would use in pricing an asset or liability. ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement (“ASC 820”), establishes a three-level hierarchy that distinguishes between market participant assumptions based on (i) unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in an active market (Level 1), (ii) quoted prices in markets that are not active or inputs that are observable either directly or indirectly for substantially the full term of the asset or liability (Level 2), and (iii) prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement (Level 3).

We utilize valuation methodologies to determine the fair values of our financial assets and liabilities in conformity with the concepts of “exit price” and the fair value hierarchy as prescribed in ASC 820. All valuation methods and assumptions are validated at least quarterly to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the fair values. There were no material changes to the valuation methods or assumptions used to determine fair values during the current period. No transfers between the levels of the fair value hierarchy occurred during the current fiscal period. In the event of a transfer in or out of a level within the fair value hierarchy, the transfers would be recognized on the date of occurrence. We may from time to time be required to remeasure the carrying value of certain assets and liabilities to fair value on a nonrecurring basis. Such adjustments typically arise if we determine that certain of our assets are impaired.

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Financial Instruments Recorded at Fair Value

The following table summarizes balances and the fair value hierarchy level of our financial instruments recorded at fair value on a recurring basis as of the dates presented (in millions):

Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total

Other financial instruments — 0.4 — 0.4 — — — —

____________________________________

(1)Includes strategic investments in privately-held entities over which we do not exercise significant influence or control without readily determinable fair values. Amounts are recorded at cost less any impairment adjusted for observable price changes, if any.

During the second quarter of fiscal 2023, we received cash for the cancellation of a strategic investment, whose underlying company was acquired by a third party. We also received preferred equity in the third party with a cost basis of $2.5 million that is accounted for under ASC 320, Investments—Debt Securities using discounted cash flows based on rates of similar instruments (Level 2). During the year ended August 31, 2023, we recorded an allowance for credit loss for this investment for its full cost basis. This credit loss reflected a decline in the underlying company's financial condition and long-term prospects, which included a suspension of dividend payments owed to us as well as a significant market decline in its publicly traded securities, including similar preferred equities. This impairment charge is reflected in Miscellaneous expense (income), net for the year ended August 31, 2023 within our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Accrued interest related to this investment was not material to our financial statements. We had no credit losses on our investments at August 31, 2022.

Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements

The following table summarizes information related to our nonrecurring fair value measurements during the current fiscal year (in millions):

Measurement Date Fair Value Hierarchy Level Fair Value

Indefinite-lived trade names June 1, 2023 Level 3 $ 46.5

Right of use operating lease asset group November 30, 2022 Level 3 3.4

Total assets at nonrecurring fair value $ 49.9

Indefinite-Lived Trade Names

We performed an evaluation of the fair values of our indefinite-lived trade names as of June 1, 2023. Our analyses indicated that the carrying values of six of our trade names exceeded their fair values due primarily to expectations of the associated brands' future performance compared to original expectations at acquisition date as well as increases in overall discount rates. The total fair value of these trade names at June 1, 2023 totaled $46.5 million, which resulted in an impairment charge of $14.0 million. This charge is reflected within Special Charges on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income and relates to our ABL segment. We also determined the remaining value for five of these indefinite-lived trade names no longer have indefinite lives. These trade names were classified as definite-lived as of June 1, 2023 and will be amortized over 15 years. The impairment analyses of the other seven indefinite-lived intangible assets indicated that their fair values exceeded their carrying values.

We utilized significant assumptions to estimate the fair values of our indefinite-lived trade names using a fair value model based on discounted future cash flows (“fair value model”) in accordance with ASC 820. Future cash flows associated with our indefinite-lived trade names were calculated by multiplying a theoretical royalty rate a willing

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third party would pay for use of the particular trade name by estimated future net sales attributable to the relevant trade name. The present value of the resulting after-tax cash flows reflected our estimate of the fair value of each trade name. This fair value model required us to make several significant assumptions, including specific estimated future net sales (including short and long-term growth rates), a royalty rate, and a discount rate for each trade name.

Future net sales and short-term growth rates are estimated for trade names based on management’s financial forecasts, which consider key business drivers, such as specific revenue growth initiatives, market share changes, expected growth in our addressable market, and general economic factors, such as macroeconomic conditions, credit availability, and interest rates. Our expected revenues as of June 1, 2023 were based on our fiscal 2023 and 2024 projections as well as recent third-party lighting, controls, and building technology solutions market growth estimates through 2028. We also included revenue growth estimates based on current initiatives expected to help improve performance, as appropriate. The long-term growth rate used in determining terminal value was estimated at 2.5% and was based primarily on our understanding of projections for expected long-term growth for our addressable market and historical long-term performance.

The theoretical royalty rate was estimated primarily using management’s assumptions regarding the amount a willing third party would pay to use the particular trade name and was compared with market information for similar intellectual property within and outside of the industry. During fiscal 2023, estimated theoretical royalty rates ranged between 1% and 3%. We based discount rates on the Capital Asset Pricing Model, which considers a current risk-free interest rate, beta, market risk premium, and size premium appropriate for each intangible. We utilized a range of estimated discount rates between 11% and 13% as of June 1, 2023.

Any reasonably likely change in the assumptions used in the analyses for our trade names, including revenue growth rates, royalty rates, and discount rates, would not be material to our financial condition or results of operations.

Right of Use Operating Lease Asset Group

In connection with our sale of our Sunoptics prismatic skylights business in November 2022, we retained certain assets, primarily right of use lease assets, that we did not plan to continue using in our manufacturing operations. Accordingly, we assessed the recoverability of these assets using an undiscounted cash flow model and concluded that the carrying values of the assets were not fully recoverable, which triggered an impairment test for these assets. Our impairment test indicated that the fair value of the assets totaled $3.4 million, which resulted in an impairment charge of $4.3 million. This amount is included within Special charges on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.

The recoverability and impairment test required significant assumptions including estimated future cash flows, the identification of assets within the asset group, and the determination of appropriate discount rates. Future cash flows were largely based both on third-party market date for sublease rental rates as well as our historic experience in subleasing properties. The discount rate was calculated using a methodology consistent with our incremental borrowing rate for leases initiated at that time and approximated the high end of our weighted average discount rate for operating leases described in the Leases footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Disclosures of Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Disclosures of fair value information about financial instruments, for which it is practicable to estimate that value, are required each reporting period in addition to any financial instruments carried at fair value on a recurring basis as prescribed by ASC Topic 825, Financial Instruments (“ASC 825”). In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on estimates using present value or other valuation techniques. Those techniques are significantly affected by the assumptions used, including the discount rate and estimates of future cash flows.

Fair value for our outstanding debt obligations is estimated based on discounted future cash flows using rates currently available for debt of similar terms and maturity (Level 2). Our senior unsecured public notes are carried at the outstanding balance, net of unamortized bond discount and deferred costs, as of the end of the reporting period. The estimated fair value of our senior unsecured public notes was $401.4 million and $399.2 million as of August 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

We had no short-term borrowings and $18.0 million of short-term borrowings outstanding under our revolving credit facility as of August 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. These borrowings are variable-rate instruments that reset on a

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frequent short-term basis; therefore, we estimate that any outstanding carrying values of these instruments, which are equal to their face amounts, approximate their fair values. See Debt and Lines of Credit footnote for further details on our outstanding borrowings.

ASC 825 excludes certain financial instruments and all nonfinancial instruments from its disclosure requirements. Accordingly, the aggregate fair value amounts presented do not represent the underlying value to us. In many cases, the fair value estimates cannot be substantiated by comparison to independent markets, nor can the disclosed value be realized in immediate settlement of the instruments. In evaluating our management of liquidity and other risks, the fair values of all assets and liabilities should be taken into consideration, not only those presented above.

Note 6 — Leases

We lease property and equipment under operating lease arrangements, most of which relate to distribution centers and manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. We include both the contractual term as well as any renewal option that we are reasonably certain to exercise in the determination of our lease terms. For leases with a term of greater than 12 months, we value lease liabilities as the present value of the lease payments over the related term. Related assets are equal to the calculated lease liabilities adjusted for incentives and other items as prescribed by ASC Topic 842, Leases (“ASC 842”). Lease payments generally consist of fixed amounts, and variable amounts based on a market rate or an index are not material to our consolidated lease cost. We have elected to use the practical expedient present in ASC 842 to not separate lease and non-lease components for all significant underlying asset classes and instead account for them together as a single lease component in the measurement of our lease liabilities.

We apply the short-term lease exception to leases with a term of 12 months or less and exclude such leases from our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Payments related to these short-term leases are expensed on a straight-line basis over the lease term and are reflected as a component of lease cost within our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.

Generally, the rates implicit in our leases are not readily determinable. Therefore, we discount future lease payments using our estimated incremental borrowing rate at lease commencement. We determine this rate based on a credit-adjusted risk-free rate, which approximates a secured rate over the lease term. The weighted average discount rate for operating leases was 3.5% and 2.5% as of August 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

The following table presents the future undiscounted payments due on our operating lease liabilities as well as a reconciliation of those payments to our operating lease liabilities recorded as of the date presented (in millions):

Total undiscounted lease payments 105.3

Less: Discount due to interest (10.1)

Present value of lease liabilities $ 95.2

The weighted average remaining lease term for our operating leases was six years as of August 31, 2023.

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Lease cost is recorded within Cost of products sold, and may be capitalized into inventory as manufacturing overhead, or Selling, distribution, and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income based on the primary use of the related right of use (“ROU”) asset. The components of total lease cost were as follows during the periods presented (in millions):

Year Ended August 31,

Variable lease cost 4.2 2.7 2.0

Short-term lease cost 3.6 4.3 2.2

Cash paid for operating lease liabilities during the year ended August 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021 was $20.1 million, $18.5 million, and $26.2 million, respectively. ROU assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities during the year ended August 31, 2023 and 2022 were $29.9 million and $37.3 million, respectively.

We have no significant leases that have not yet commenced as of August 31, 2023 that create significant rights and obligations.

We have subleased certain properties. Lease income from these subleases is recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income as it is earned and is not material to our consolidated results of operations. We do not have any other significant transactions in which we are the lessor.

During fiscal 2023 and 2022, we committed to plans to vacate certain leased properties, which indicated that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the related ROU assets were below their carrying values. We assessed the recoverability of these assets using an undiscounted cash flow model and concluded that the carrying values of the assets were not fully recoverable. We recorded impairment charges of $4.3 million related to these assets using a discounted cash flow model to estimate their fair values in fiscal 2023. The fiscal 2023 impairment was related to the ABL segment. The impairments were recorded within Special charges in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. See the Special Charges footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details on the fiscal 2023 impairment. The recoverability and impairment tests required significant assumptions including estimated future cash flows, the identification of assets within each asset group, and the determination of appropriate discount rates.

No impairments were recorded for leases in fiscal 2021.

Note 7 — Debt and Lines of Credit

Our debt is carried at the outstanding balance net of any related unamortized discounts and deferred costs and consists of the following as of the dates presented (in millions):

Senior unsecured public notes due December 2030, principal $ 500.0 $ 500.0

Short-term borrowings under credit facility — 18.0

Our next scheduled future principal payment of long-term debt is $500.0 million due upon the maturity of the senior unsecured notes in December 2030.

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Long-term Debt

On November 10, 2020, Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc. issued $500.0 million aggregate principal amount of 2.150% senior unsecured notes due December 15, 2030 (the “Unsecured Notes”) at a price equal to 99.737% of their face value. Interest on the Unsecured Notes is paid semi-annually in arrears on June 15 and December 15 of each year. We recorded $4.8 million of deferred issuance costs related to the Unsecured Notes as a direct deduction from the face amount of the Unsecured Notes. These issuance costs are amortized over the 10-year term of the Unsecured Notes.

The Unsecured Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by Acuity Brands, Inc. and ABL IP Holding LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Acuity Brands, Inc.

Lines of Credit

On June 30, 2022, we entered into a credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with a syndicate of banks that provides us with a $600.0 million five-year unsecured revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) with the ability to request an additional $400.0 million of borrowing capacity. The Revolving Credit Facility replaced our previous credit agreement set to expire on June 30, 2022, the details of which can be found in the fiscal 2021 Debt and Lines of Creditfootnote of the Notes to Consolidated Footnotes within our 2021 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 27, 2021.

The Revolving Credit Facility uses the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) as the applicable benchmark for U.S. Dollar borrowings and an applicable benchmark rate for non-U.S. Dollar borrowings as defined in the Credit Agreement. The applicable margin pricing grid mechanics are based on the better of our public credit ratings or our net leverage ratio and range from 0.80% to 1.20% for base rate borrowings and from 0.00% to 0.20% for floating rate advances. We are also required to pay certain fees in connection with the Credit Agreement, including administrative service fees and annual facility fees, which range from 0.075% to 0.175% of the aggregate $600.0 million remaining commitment of the lenders under the Credit Agreement.

The Credit Agreement contains a leverage ratio covenant (“Maximum Leverage Ratio”) of total indebtedness to earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization (“EBITDA”), as such terms are defined in the Credit Agreement. These ratios are computed at the end of each fiscal quarter for the most recent 12-month period. The Credit Agreement generally allows for a Maximum Leverage Ratio of 3.75 (subject to temporary increase to 4.25 in the event of a significant acquisition) and allows netting of all unrestricted cash and cash equivalents against debt.

We had no short-term borrowings at August 31, 2023 and $18.0 million in short-term borrowings at August 31, 2022 outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility.

We were in compliance with all financial covenants under the Credit Agreement as of August 31, 2023. At August 31, 2023, we had additional borrowing capacity under the Credit Agreement of $596.2 million under the most restrictive covenant in effect at the time, which represents the full amount of the Revolving Credit Facility less outstanding letters of credit of $3.8 million issued under the Revolving Credit Facility, primarily for securing collateral requirements under our casualty insurance premiums.

None of our existing debt instruments include provisions that would require an acceleration of repayments based solely on changes in our credit ratings. Borrowings and repayments on our Revolving Credit Facility with terms of three months or less are reported on a net basis on our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Note 8 — Commitments and Contingencies

Self-Insurance

Our policy is to self-insure up to certain limits traditional risks, including workers’ compensation, comprehensive general liability, and auto liability. Our self-insured retention for each claim involving workers’ compensation, comprehensive general liability (including product liability claims), and auto liability is limited per occurrence of such claims. A provision for claims under this self-insured program, based on our estimate of the aggregate liability for claims incurred, is revised and recorded annually. The estimate is derived from both internal and external sources including, but not limited to, our independent actuary. We are also self-insured up to certain limits for certain other insurable risks, primarily physical loss to property and business interruptions resulting from such loss lasting two days or more in duration. Insurance coverage is maintained for catastrophic property and casualty exposures, as

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