At the end of September 2020 the policy funding ratio was 96.8%. This is too low for us to be able to increase pensions. The HPF has to base its decision on the policy funding ratio: the average funding ratio over the previous 12 months. The policy funding ratio determines whether we can raise the pensions (indexation) or must reduce them (cutback). Given this policy funding ratio there was no other alternative for the Management than to decide not to increase pensions on 1 January 2021.
However, the financial position of our pension fund is still adequate not to have to cut back our pensions. Read more on this subject in our blog.
We look back on three days of great conversations and informative webinars in which we took a total of 341 live viewers through the transition to the new pension scheme. We have noticed that pensions are not an issue for everyone, but when we talk to colleagues, questions do arise.
The new pension scheme is a solidarity-based contribution scheme. An important and mandatory element of this scheme is the solidarity reserve. The solidarity reserve is a separate reserve that protects the pension benefits. The solidarity reserve has two objectives:
On November 12, 13 and 14 the annual Three Days of Pensions will take place. During these three days, we will organise various (online) activities where we will tell you more about the pension scheme we have at HEINEKEN and the upcoming changes to the pension scheme and what this means for your pension at HEINEKEN.