Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
Aug. 31, 2024
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
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.
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 and Shipping and Handling Fees and Costs	Refer to the Revenue Recognition footnote of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to our revenue recognition accounting policies. We include shipping and handling fees billed to customers in Net sales in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Refer to the Revenue Recognition footnote of the Notes to Financial Statements for further information. 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 expenses 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 and is recognized net of rebates, sales incentives, product returns, and discounts to customers. We allocate the expected consideration to be collected to each distinct performance obligation identified in a sale based on its standalone selling price. Sales and use taxes collected on behalf of governmental authorities are excluded from revenues. Payment is generally due and received within 60 days from the point of sale. In some instances, such as for software as a service agreements, payment is made prior to the transfer of control of goods and services. Payment terms generally do not extend beyond one year, and we apply the significant financing component practical expedient within ASC Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASC 606”). Accruals for cash discounts to customers are estimated using the expected value method based on historical experience and are recorded as a reduction to sales. Our standard terms and conditions of sale generally allow for the return of certain products within four months of the date of shipment. We also provide for limited product return rights to certain distributors and other customers, primarily for slow moving or damaged items subject to certain defined criteria. The limited product return rights generally allow customers to return resalable products purchased within a specified time period and subject to certain limitations, including, at times, when accompanied by a replacement order of equal or greater value. At the time revenue is recognized, we record a refund liability for the expected value of future returns primarily based on historical experience, specific notification of pending returns, or contractual terms with the respective customers. Although historical product returns generally have been within expectations, there can be no assurance that future product returns will not exceed historical amounts. A significant increase in product returns could have a material adverse impact on our operating results in future periods. Refund liabilities recorded under ASC 606 relating to rights of return, cash discounts, and other miscellaneous credits to customers were $28.2 million and $25.6 million as of August 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and are reflected within Other accrued liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Additionally, we recorded right of return assets for products expected to be returned to our facilities, which are included within Prepayments and other current assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Such assets totaled $4.5 million and $4.9 million as of August 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. We also maintain one-time and ongoing promotions with our customers, which may include rebate, sales incentive, marketing, and trade-promotion programs with certain customers that require us to estimate and accrue the expected costs of such programs. These arrangements may include volume rebate incentives, cooperative marketing programs, merchandising of our products, introductory marketing funds for new products, and other trade-promotion activities conducted by the customer. Costs associated with these programs are generally estimated based on the most likely amount expected to be settled based on the context of the individual contract and are reflected within the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income in accordance with ASC 606, which in most instances requires such costs to be recorded as reductions of revenue. Amounts due to our customers associated with these programs totaled $35.3 million and $31.6 million as of August 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and are reflected within Other accrued liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Costs to obtain and fulfill contracts, such as sales commissions, are generally short-term in nature and are generally expensed as incurred. Nature of Goods and Services Products Substantially all of the revenues for the periods presented were generated from short-term contracts with our customers to deliver only tangible goods such as luminaires, lighting controls, and controls for various building systems. We record revenue from these contracts when the customer obtains control of those goods. For sales designated free on board shipping point, control is transferred and revenue is recognized at the time of shipment. For sales designated free on board destination, customers take control and revenue is recognized when a product is delivered to the customer’s delivery site. Professional Services We collect fees associated with training, installation, and technical support services, primarily related to the set up of our lighting and building technology solutions. We recognize revenue for these one-time services at the time the service is performed. 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 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. Claims related to service-type warranties are expensed as incurred. Software Software sales include licenses for software, data usage fees, and software as a service arrangements. We recognize revenue for software based on the contractual rights provided to a customer, which in certain instances results in the recognition of revenue ratably over the contractual service period. Contracts with Multiple Performance Obligations A small portion of our revenue was derived from the combination of any or all of our products, professional services, and software licenses. 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 determined using a cost plus margin valuation when no observable input is available. The amount of consideration allocated to each performance obligation is recognized as revenue in accordance with the timing for products, professional services, and software as described above. Shipping and Handling Activities We account for all shipping and handling activities for customers as activities to fulfill the promise to transfer products to our customers. As such, we do not consider shipping and handling activities to be separate performance obligations, and we expense these costs as incurred. Contract Balances Our rights related to collections from customers are unconditional and are reflected within Accounts receivable on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. We do not have any other significant contract assets. Contract liabilities arise when we receive cash or an unconditional right to collect cash prior to the transfer of control of goods or services. Current deferred revenues primarily consist of upfront fees collected for service-type warranties, time-bound software licenses, software as a service arrangements, and professional fees and are included within Other current liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. These services are expected to be performed within one year. Revenue earned from beginning contract balances during the year ended August 31, 2024 approximated the current deferred revenue balance at August 31, 2023. Non-current deferred revenues primarily consist of long-term service-type warranties, which are typically recognized ratably as revenue between five years and ten years from the date of sale, and are included within Other long-term liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Unsatisfied performance obligations that do not represent contract liabilities are expected to be satisfied within one year from August 31, 2024 and consist primarily of orders for physical goods that have not yet been shipped.
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 terms 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.
Reclassifications	We may reclassify certain prior period amounts to conform to the current year presentation. No material reclassifications occurred during the current period.
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 valueWe review inventory quantities on hand and record a provision for excess or obsolete inventory primarily based on estimated future demand and current market conditions. Although our historical experience related to demand and market conditions have been within expectations, 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.
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, 2024 or August 31, 2023.
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangibles	Impairment Analyses 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 and indefinite-lived intangible assets 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. Goodwill As of June 1, 2024, the current fiscal year testing date, we performed a qualitative analysis to assess the fair value of our reporting units as prescribed by ASC 350. Our qualitative analysis considered and assessed external factors for each reporting unit such as macroeconomic, industry, cost, and market conditions as well as Company-specific factors, including but not limited to, our actual and planned financial performance. Based on the results of our analysis, we determined there was not a more likely than not probability of impairment for each of our three reporting units. Thus, no quantitative test was required for our $1.1 billion of goodwill. In fiscal 2023 and 2022, we used a quantitative analysis to calculate the fair value of our three 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, or 2022. Indefinite-Lived Intangibles As of June 1, 2024, the current fiscal year testing date, we held eight indefinite-lived intangible assets with an aggregate carrying value of $135.5 million. For fiscal 2024, we performed a qualitative analysis to assess our indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment. Our qualitative analysis considered and assessed external factors such as macroeconomic, industry, cost, and market conditions as well as asset-specific factors, such as each trade name's actual and planned financial performance. Based on the results of our analyses, we determined there was not a more likely than not probability of impairment for seven of the indefinite-lived intangible assets, and no quantitative test for these assets was required. In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024, management committed to a plan to rebrand certain products in ABL's portfolio. We determined this plan adversely impacted one trade name. Therefore, we performed a quantitative analysis to compare the fair value of this trade name with its carrying value. We estimated the fair value of this indefinite-lived trade name using the relief-from-royalty method, a fair value model based on discounted future cash flows. Our assumptions in valuing the trade name primarily reflected a projected decline in revenues generated by the trade name due to management’s planned reduction in future use of the asset. We additionally considered other inputs, including theoretical royalty rates and discount rates, in valuing the asset. Based on the results of the indefinite-lived intangible asset analyses for fiscal 2024, we recorded an impairment charge of $3.0 million for one indefinite-lived trade name asset within Selling, distribution, and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income related to our ABL segment. Any reasonably likely change in the assumptions used in the analysis for the trade name would not be material to the impairment charge recorded or to our financial conditions or results of operations. In 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 had indefinite lives. These trade names were classified as definite-lived as of June 1, 2023 and are 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.
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.
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, equipment, and information technology) 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.
Property, Plant and Equipment - Depreciation	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, equipment, and information technology) 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
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.
Advertising	Advertising costs are expensed as incurred and are included within Selling, distribution, and administrative expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.
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 (loss) income items includes foreign currency translation and pension adjustments.
New Accounting Pronouncements	Accounting Standards Yet to Be Adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures (“ASU 2023-09”) In December 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued ASU 2023-09, which expands income tax disclosure requirements to include additional information related to the rate reconciliation of our effective tax rates to statutory rates as well as additional disaggregation of taxes paid. The amendments in the ASU also remove disclosures related to certain unrecognized tax benefits and deferred taxes. ASU 2023-09 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, or our fiscal 2026. The amendments may be applied prospectively or retrospectively, and early adoption is permitted. We are currently assessing the impact of the requirements on our consolidated financial statements and disclosures. ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures (“ASU 2023-07”) In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, which expands reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. The amendments in the ASU require that a public entity disclose, on an annual and interim basis, significant segment expenses that are regularly provided to an entity's chief operating decision maker (“CODM”), a description of other segment items by reportable segment, and any additional measures of a segment's profit or loss used by the CODM when deciding how to allocate resources. Annual disclosures are required for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023 or our fiscal 2025. Interim disclosures are required for periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, or our fiscal 2026. Retrospective application is required for all prior periods presented, and early adoption is permitted. We are currently assessing the impact of the requirements on our consolidated financial statements and disclosures. All other newly issued accounting pronouncements not yet effective have been deemed either immaterial or not applicable.
Fair Value Measurements of Pension Plan Assets	Our pension plan assets are stated at fair value based on quoted market prices in an active market, quoted redemption values, or estimates based on reasonable assumptions as of the most recent measurement period. See the Fair Value Measurements footnote for a description of the fair value guidance. 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. Certain pension assets valued at net asset value (“NAV”) per share as a practical expedient are excluded from the fair value hierarchy. Investments in pension plan assets as of August 31, 2024 and August 31, 2023 are described in further detail below. Short-term Fixed Income Investments (Level 1): Short-term investments consist of money market funds, which are valued at the daily closing price as reported by the relevant fund. Mutual Funds (Level 1): Mutual funds held by the domestic plans are open-end mutual funds that are registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and seek to either replicate or outperform a related index. These funds are required to publish their daily net asset value and to transact at that price. The mutual funds held by the domestic plans are deemed to be actively traded. Collective Trust (Level 2): The collective trust seeks to outperform the overall small-cap stock market and is comprised primarily of small-cap equity securities with quoted prices in active markets for identical investments. The value of this fund is calculated on each business day based on its daily net asset value; however, the collective trust is not deemed to be actively traded. Fixed Income Investments (Level 2): The fixed income investment seeks to maximize total return by investing primarily in a diversified portfolio of investment-grade fixed income securities, primarily publicly traded corporate bonds as well as U.S. government and municipal bonds. The investment is valued on each business day based on the values of the underlying holdings and is not actively traded. U.S. Treasury Investments (Level 2): The domestic plans hold several fixed-income U.S. Treasury securities that are valued based on discounted future cash flows using rates currently available for debt of similar terms and maturity. Real Estate Fund (NAV): The real estate fund invests primarily in commercial real estate and includes mortgage loans that are backed by the associated property's investment objective. The fund seeks real estate returns, risk, and liquidity appropriate to a core fund. The fund also seeks to provide current income with the potential for long-term capital appreciation. This investment is valued based on the NAV per share, without further adjustment. The NAV, as provided by the fund's trustee, is used as a practical expedient to estimate fair value and is therefore excluded from the fair value hierarchy. NAV is based on the fair value of the underlying investments. Investors may request to redeem all or any portion of their shares on a quarterly basis. Each investor must provide a written redemption request at least sixty days prior to the end of the quarter for which the request is to be effective. If insufficient funds are available to honor all redemption requests at any point in time, available funds will be allocated pro-rata based on the total number of shares held by each investor. All decisions regarding whether to honor redemption requests are made by the fund’s board of directors.

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2024

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.

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 and Shipping and Handling Fees and Costs

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

We include shipping and handling fees billed to customers in Net sales in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Refer to the Revenue Recognition footnote of the Notes to Financial Statements for further information.

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 expenses

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 and is recognized net of rebates, sales incentives, product returns, and discounts to customers. We allocate the expected consideration to be collected to each distinct performance obligation identified in a sale based on its standalone selling price. Sales and use taxes collected on behalf of governmental authorities are excluded from revenues.

Payment is generally due and received within 60 days from the point of sale. In some instances, such as for software as a service agreements, payment is made prior to the transfer of control of goods and services. Payment terms generally do not extend beyond one year, and we apply the significant financing component practical expedient within ASC Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASC 606”). Accruals for cash discounts to customers are estimated using the expected value method based on historical experience and are recorded as a reduction to sales.

Our standard terms and conditions of sale generally allow for the return of certain products within four months of the date of shipment. We also provide for limited product return rights to certain distributors and other customers, primarily for slow moving or damaged items subject to certain defined criteria. The limited product return rights generally allow customers to return resalable products purchased within a specified time period and subject to certain limitations, including, at times, when accompanied by a replacement order of equal or greater value. At the time revenue is recognized, we record a refund liability for the expected value of future returns primarily based on historical experience, specific notification of pending returns, or contractual terms with the respective customers. Although historical product returns generally have been within expectations, there can be no assurance that future product returns will not exceed historical amounts. A significant increase in product returns could have a material adverse impact on our operating results in future periods.

Refund liabilities recorded under ASC 606 relating to rights of return, cash discounts, and other miscellaneous credits to customers were $28.2 million and $25.6 million as of August 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and are reflected within Other accrued liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Additionally, we recorded right of return assets for products expected to be returned to our facilities, which are included within Prepayments and other current assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Such assets totaled $4.5 million and $4.9 million as of August 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

We also maintain one-time and ongoing promotions with our customers, which may include rebate, sales incentive, marketing, and trade-promotion programs with certain customers that require us to estimate and accrue the expected costs of such programs. These arrangements may include volume rebate incentives, cooperative marketing programs, merchandising of our products, introductory marketing funds for new products, and other trade-promotion activities conducted by the customer. Costs associated with these programs are generally estimated based on the most likely amount expected to be settled based on the context of the individual contract and are reflected within the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income in accordance with ASC 606, which in most instances requires such costs to be recorded as reductions of revenue. Amounts due to our customers

associated with these programs totaled $35.3 million and $31.6 million as of August 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and are reflected within Other accrued liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Costs to obtain and fulfill contracts, such as sales commissions, are generally short-term in nature and are generally expensed as incurred.

Nature of Goods and Services

Products

Substantially all of the revenues for the periods presented were generated from short-term contracts with our customers to deliver only tangible goods such as luminaires, lighting controls, and controls for various building systems. We record revenue from these contracts when the customer obtains control of those goods. For sales designated free on board shipping point, control is transferred and revenue is recognized at the time of shipment. For sales designated free on board destination, customers take control and revenue is recognized when a product is delivered to the customer’s delivery site.

Professional Services

We collect fees associated with training, installation, and technical support services, primarily related to the set up of our lighting and building technology solutions. We recognize revenue for these one-time services at the time the service is performed. 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 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. Claims related to service-type warranties are expensed as incurred.

Software

Software sales include licenses for software, data usage fees, and software as a service arrangements. We recognize revenue for software based on the contractual rights provided to a customer, which in certain instances results in the recognition of revenue ratably over the contractual service period.

Contracts with Multiple Performance Obligations

A small portion of our revenue was derived from the combination of any or all of our products, professional services, and software licenses. 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 determined using a cost plus margin valuation when no observable input is available. The amount of consideration allocated to each performance obligation is recognized as revenue in accordance with the timing for products, professional services, and software as described above.

Shipping and Handling Activities

We account for all shipping and handling activities for customers as activities to fulfill the promise to transfer products to our customers. As such, we do not consider shipping and handling activities to be separate performance obligations, and we expense these costs as incurred.

Contract Balances

Our rights related to collections from customers are unconditional and are reflected within Accounts receivable on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. We do not have any other significant contract assets. Contract liabilities arise when we receive cash or an unconditional right to collect cash prior to the transfer of control of goods or services.

Current deferred revenues primarily consist of upfront fees collected for service-type warranties, time-bound software licenses, software as a service arrangements, and professional fees and are included within Other current liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. These services are expected to be performed within one year. Revenue earned from beginning contract balances during the year ended August 31, 2024 approximated the current deferred revenue balance at August 31, 2023.

Non-current deferred revenues primarily consist of long-term service-type warranties, which are typically recognized ratably as revenue between five years and ten years from the date of sale, and are included within Other long-term liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Unsatisfied performance obligations that do not represent contract liabilities are expected to be satisfied within one year from August 31, 2024 and consist primarily of orders for physical goods that have not yet been shipped.

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 terms 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.

Reclassifications

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

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 valueWe review inventory quantities on hand and record a provision for excess or obsolete inventory primarily based on estimated future demand and current market conditions. Although our historical experience related to demand and market conditions have been within expectations, 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.

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, 2024 or August 31, 2023.

Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangibles

Impairment Analyses

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 and indefinite-lived intangible assets 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.

Goodwill

As of June 1, 2024, the current fiscal year testing date, we performed a qualitative analysis to assess the fair value of our reporting units as prescribed by ASC 350. Our qualitative analysis considered and assessed external factors for each reporting unit such as macroeconomic, industry, cost, and market conditions as well as Company-specific factors, including but not limited to, our actual and planned financial performance. Based on the results of our analysis, we determined there was not a more likely than not probability of impairment for each of our three reporting units. Thus, no quantitative test was required for our $1.1 billion of goodwill.

In fiscal 2023 and 2022, we used a quantitative analysis to calculate the fair value of our three 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, or 2022.

Indefinite-Lived Intangibles

As of June 1, 2024, the current fiscal year testing date, we held eight indefinite-lived intangible assets with an aggregate carrying value of $135.5 million. For fiscal 2024, we performed a qualitative analysis to assess our indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment. Our qualitative analysis considered and assessed external factors such as macroeconomic, industry, cost, and market conditions as well as asset-specific factors, such as each trade name's actual and planned financial performance. Based on the results of our analyses, we determined there was not a more likely than not probability of impairment for seven of the indefinite-lived intangible assets, and no quantitative test for these assets was required.

In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024, management committed to a plan to rebrand certain products in ABL's portfolio. We determined this plan adversely impacted one trade name. Therefore, we performed a quantitative analysis to compare the fair value of this trade name with its carrying value. We estimated the fair value of this indefinite-lived trade name using the relief-from-royalty method, a fair value model based on discounted future cash flows. Our assumptions in valuing the trade name primarily reflected a projected decline in revenues generated by the trade name due to management’s planned reduction in future use of the asset. We additionally considered other inputs, including theoretical royalty rates and discount rates, in valuing the asset. Based on the results of the indefinite-lived intangible asset analyses for fiscal 2024, we recorded an impairment charge of $3.0 million for one indefinite-lived trade name asset within Selling, distribution, and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income related to our ABL segment. Any reasonably likely change in the assumptions used in the analysis for the trade name would not be material to the impairment charge recorded or to our financial conditions or results of operations.

In 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 had indefinite lives. These trade names were classified as definite-lived as of June 1, 2023 and are 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.

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.

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, equipment, and information technology) 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.

Property, Plant and Equipment - Depreciation

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.

Advertising

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred and are included within Selling, distribution, and administrative expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.

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 (loss) income items includes foreign currency translation and pension adjustments.

New Accounting Pronouncements

Accounting Standards Yet to Be Adopted

Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures (“ASU 2023-09”)

In December 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued ASU 2023-09, which expands income tax disclosure requirements to include additional information related to the rate reconciliation of our effective tax rates to statutory rates as well as additional disaggregation of taxes paid. The amendments in the ASU also remove disclosures related to certain unrecognized tax benefits and deferred taxes. ASU 2023-09 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, or our fiscal 2026. The amendments may be applied prospectively or retrospectively, and early adoption is permitted. We are currently assessing the impact of the requirements on our consolidated financial statements and disclosures.

ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures (“ASU 2023-07”)

In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, which expands reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. The amendments in the ASU require that a public entity disclose, on an annual and interim basis, significant segment expenses that are regularly provided to an entity's chief operating decision maker (“CODM”), a description of other segment items by reportable segment, and any additional measures of a segment's profit or loss used by the CODM when deciding how to allocate resources. Annual disclosures are required for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023 or our fiscal 2025. Interim disclosures are required for periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, or our fiscal 2026. Retrospective application is required for all prior periods presented, and early adoption is permitted. We are currently assessing the impact of the requirements on our consolidated financial statements and disclosures.

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

Fair Value Measurements of Pension Plan Assets

Our pension plan assets are stated at fair value based on quoted market prices in an active market, quoted redemption values, or estimates based on reasonable assumptions as of the most recent measurement period. See the Fair Value Measurements footnote for a description of the fair value guidance. 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. Certain pension assets valued at net asset value (“NAV”) per share as a practical expedient are excluded from the fair value hierarchy. Investments in pension plan assets as of August 31, 2024 and August 31, 2023 are described in further detail below.

Short-term Fixed Income Investments (Level 1): Short-term investments consist of money market funds, which are valued at the daily closing price as reported by the relevant fund.

Mutual Funds (Level 1): Mutual funds held by the domestic plans are open-end mutual funds that are registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and seek to either replicate or outperform a related index. These funds are required to publish their daily net asset value and to transact at that price. The mutual funds held by the domestic plans are deemed to be actively traded.

Collective Trust (Level 2): The collective trust seeks to outperform the overall small-cap stock market and is comprised primarily of small-cap equity securities with quoted prices in active markets for identical investments. The value of this fund is calculated on each business day based on its daily net asset value; however, the collective trust is not deemed to be actively traded.

Fixed Income Investments (Level 2): The fixed income investment seeks to maximize total return by investing primarily in a diversified portfolio of investment-grade fixed income securities, primarily publicly traded corporate bonds as well as U.S. government and municipal bonds. The investment is valued on each business day based on the values of the underlying holdings and is not actively traded.

U.S. Treasury Investments (Level 2): The domestic plans hold several fixed-income U.S. Treasury securities that are valued based on discounted future cash flows using rates currently available for debt of similar terms and maturity.

Real Estate Fund (NAV): The real estate fund invests primarily in commercial real estate and includes mortgage loans that are backed by the associated property's investment objective. The fund seeks real estate returns, risk, and liquidity appropriate to a core fund. The fund also seeks to provide current income with the potential for long-term capital appreciation. This investment is valued based on the NAV per share, without further adjustment. The NAV, as provided by the fund's trustee, is used as a practical expedient to estimate fair value and is therefore excluded from the fair value hierarchy. NAV is based on the fair value of the underlying investments. Investors may request to redeem all or any portion of their shares on a quarterly basis. Each investor must provide a written redemption request at least sixty days prior to the end of the quarter for which the request is to be effective. If insufficient funds are available to honor all redemption requests at any point in time, available funds will be allocated pro-rata based on the total number of shares held by each investor. All decisions regarding whether to honor redemption requests are made by the fund’s board of directors.