TIDMSDY
RNS Number : 2748P
Speedy Hire PLC
16 November 2016
Speedy Hire Plc
("Speedy", "the Company" or "the Group")
Results for the six months to 30 September 2016 16 November
2016
Results significantly improved; recovery well established
Speedy, the UK's leading tools, equipment and plant hire
services company, operating across the construction, infrastructure
and industrial markets, announces results for the six months to 30
September 2016.
Key Points
6 months 6 months Year
ended 30 ended ended
September 30 September Change 31 March
2016 2015 2016
------------------- ----------- -------------- --------- ----------
(GBPm) (GBPm) % (GBPm)
------------------- ----------- -------------- --------- ----------
Group revenue 187.1 165.0 13.4% 329.1
------------------- ----------- -------------- --------- ----------
Group EBITDA(1) 30.4 25.6 18.8% 53.1
------------------- ----------- -------------- --------- ----------
Group EBITA(1) 8.4 4.5 86.7% 10.0
------------------- ----------- -------------- --------- ----------
Adjusted profit
before tax(1) 6.8 2.0 240.0% 5.0
------------------- ----------- -------------- --------- ----------
Profit/ (loss)
before tax 5.4 (13.5) (57.6)
------------------- ----------- -------------- --------- ----------
Adjusted earnings
per share(1) 1.04p 0.29p 258.6% 0.79p
------------------- ----------- -------------- --------- ----------
Earnings/ (loss)
per share 0.81p (2.21p) (10.19p)
------------------- ----------- -------------- --------- ----------
Net debt 85.4 102.6 (16.8%) 102.6
------------------- ----------- -------------- --------- ----------
Leverage(2) 1.47 1.69 (13.0%) 1.93
------------------- ----------- -------------- --------- ----------
Dividend (pence
per share) 0.33p 0.30p 10.0% 0.70p
------------------- ----------- -------------- --------- ----------
1 Before amortisation and exceptional costs
2 Net debt covered by rolling twelve month EBITDA (times)
Financial highlights
-- Pre-disposal revenue increased by 5.2% to GBP171.4m (2015: GBP162.9m)
-- Operating profit of GBP8.4m (2015: GBP4.5m) up 86.7%
-- Adjusted profit before tax increased to GBP6.8m (2015: GBP2.0m)
-- Earnings per share increased to 0.81 pence (2015: loss 2.21 pence)
-- Strong balance sheet; net debt significantly reduced and leverage below 1.5 times EBITDA
-- Dividend up 10.0% to 0.33 pence per share
Operational highlights
-- Continued focus on operational excellence with restructuring undertaken
-- Disposal of heavy plant to focus on developing core operations
-- Strategic 10.0% reduction in hire fleet; significantly improved asset utilisation
-- Full year results expected to be ahead of the Board's previous expectations
Commenting on the results Russell Down, Chief Executive,
said:
"These encouraging interim results confirm that our recovery is
well established.
We are now focussed on the strategic development of the business
over the medium-term and are implementing a range of customer
service initiatives to ensure that Speedy is competitively
positioned to grow profitable market share.
Reflecting the progress the Group has made, we now expect
results for the full year to be ahead of the Board's previous
expectations."
Enquiries:
Speedy Hire Plc Tel: 01942 720 000
Russell Down, Chief Executive
Chris Morgan, Group Finance Director
Instinctif Partners Tel: 020 7457 2020
Mark Garraway
Helen Tarbet
James Gray
Notes:
Inside Information: This announcement contains inside
information.
Forward looking statements: The information in this release is
based on management information. This report includes statements
that are forward looking in nature. Forward looking statements
involve known and unknown risks, assumptions, uncertainties and
other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or
achievements of the Group to be materially different from any
future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by
such forward looking statements. Except as required by the Listing
Rules and applicable law, the Company undertakes no obligation to
update, revise or change any forward looking statements to reflect
events or developments occurring after the date of this report.
Notes to Editors: Founded in 1977, Speedy is the UK's leading
provider of tools, equipment and plant hire services to a wide
range of customers in the construction, infrastructure and
industrial markets, as well as to local trade and industry. The
Group provides complementary support services through the provision
of training, asset management and compliance services. Speedy is
accredited nationally to ISO50001, ISO9001, ISO14001 and
OHSAS18001. The Group operates from 204 fixed sites across the UK
and Ireland together with a number of on-site facilities at client
locations throughout the UK, Ireland and from an international
office based in Abu Dhabi.
Chief Executive's Statement
Overview
I am pleased to report significantly improved results following
the implementation of our new strategy and recovery plan this time
last year.
The Group's recovery is well established with revenue growing
and costs lower than the prior year. We have a strong balance sheet
and substantial headroom within our banking facilities. The
business has been stabilised, profitability is increasing and we
now have a strong foundation in place for further progress.
Results
Revenue for the period was GBP187.1m (2015: GBP165.0m). During
the period we disposed of the majority of our heavy plant for
GBP12.1m, which has been recognised as revenue. Excluding the
effect of this and other disposals, revenue increased by 5.2%.
As a result of increasing revenues, and lower overhead costs,
EBITDA before exceptional costs increased by 18.8% to GBP30.4m
(2015: GBP25.6m). EBITA before exceptional costs increased by 86.7%
to GBP8.4m (2015: GBP4.5m).
Profit before tax, amortisation and exceptional costs for the
period was GBP6.8m (2015: GBP2.0m). Profit before tax was GBP5.4m
(2015: loss GBP13.5m).
Earnings per share before amortisation and exceptional costs
were 1.04 pence (2015: 0.29 pence).
As at 30 September 2016, net debt amounted to GBP85.4m (31 March
2016: GBP102.6m). The improvement in net debt is due to the
disposal of the Group's heavy plant and improved cash management,
with net cash flow before financing activities improving
significantly to GBP19.2m (2015: GBP5.0m).
The Group has a strong balance sheet, including headroom of
GBP76.1m within its banking facilities, to support the
implementation of the Group's growth strategy.
Dividend
The Board has declared an increase in the interim dividend of
10.0% to 0.33 pence per share (2015: 0.30 pence per share) to be
paid on 27 January 2017 to shareholders on the register as at 16
December 2016.
Operational Review and Strategy
Our three part market focussed strategy is to deliver excellent
customer service, innovation and build strong customer
relationships. We launched the strategy a year ago along with a
recovery plan to grow revenue and tightly manage our cost base. We
have won and renewed a number of contracts with our strategic
customers, and continue to improve our penetration of the SME
market. The improved results we are reporting today are a
consequence of the implementation of the new strategy.
We have worked with external specialists to implement a customer
experience programme. This will ensure our people understand the
strategy for growth and how they can play their part in achieving
it. The programme focusses on the following themes:
-- Brand proposition
-- Customer satisfaction
-- Internal advocacy and engagement
-- Systems, processes and management information
We monitor performance against KPIs including those in relation
to asset utilisation, engineering and logistics, transport and
return on capital employed. The overhaul of our IT and management
information systems has resulted in a significant improvement in
the quality of data which will allow more accurate measurement
against those KPIs. We have made further progress in improving
product availability and utilisation across our depot network,
primarily through endeavouring to ensure that we have the right
equipment available where and when it is needed. Since September
2015, asset utilisation has improved significantly.
In line with our strategy of developing our core operations, on
26 August 2016 we announced the sale of the Group's heavy plant for
a total consideration of GBP14.4 million. Of this, GBP12.1m
proceeds for assets held outside Scotland were received in
September 2016, with the balance to follow on 30 November. We also
announced that we had entered into a five-year re-hire agreement,
with an option for a further two years. The disposal has allowed us
to pay down debt and deliver a pro-forma increase in return on
capital employed.
The Group's headcount at 30 September 2016 was 3,542 (31 March
2016: 3,643). In the UK and Ireland headcount during the period
fell by 3.9% to 3,067, following a restructuring of the core tools,
lifting and survey business into two regional operating divisions,
and further reductions centrally. The associated costs of this
restructuring have been recognised as exceptional. Headcount in the
International business increased by 25 in line with revenues.
Board and people
David Shearer joined the Board as a non-executive Director
following the general meeting on 9 September 2016, and has
subsequently been appointed to the Audit and Nomination
Committees.
With the recovery well underway, and as previously announced,
Jan Åstrand reverted to non-executive Chairman with effect from 30
September 2016.
The stabilisation and recovery of the business would not have
been possible without the dedication and professionalism of
everyone at Speedy. I would like to take the opportunity to thank
all of my colleagues for their support and focus during this
period.
Outlook
These encouraging interim results confirm that our recovery is
well established.
We are now focussed on the strategic development of the business
over the medium-term and are implementing a range of customer
service initiatives to ensure that Speedy is competitively
positioned to grow profitable market share.
Reflecting the progress the Group has made, we now expect
results for the full year to be ahead of the Board's previous
expectations.
Russell Down
Chief Executive
Financial review
Results
Revenue for the period improved by 13.4% to GBP187.1m (2015:
GBP165.0m) as a result of increased core hire, partnered services,
and secondary income, as well as the heavy plant disposal in
September 2016. Revenue from planned disposals amounted to GBP15.7m
(2015: GBP2.1m).
Gross profit was GBP95.4m (2015: GBP94.1m), an increase of 1.4%.
The reduction in gross margin to 51.0% (2015: 57.0%) was
principally due to planned disposals (4.2%) and a higher proportion
of partnered services income.
Group operating profit before amortisation and exceptional costs
increased by 86.7% to GBP8.4m (2015: GBP4.5m) and profit before
taxation, amortisation and exceptional costs increased to GBP6.8m
(2015: GBP2.0m). After taxation, amortisation and exceptional
costs, the Group made a profit of GBP4.2m compared to a loss of
GBP11.4m during the same period in 2015.
Adjusted earnings per share before amortisation and exceptional
costs increased to 1.04 pence (2015: 0.29 pence) and basic earnings
per share after exceptional costs and amortisation were 0.81 pence
(2015: loss per share 2.21 pence).
Segmental analysis
The Group's segmental reporting is reported as UK and Ireland
Asset Services, International Asset Services and Corporate. The
figures in the tables below are presented before corporate
costs.
6 months 6 months
ended ended
UK and Ireland Asset Services 30 September 30 September Movement
2016 2015 %
GBPm GBPm
Revenue 174.8 155.2 12.6%
EBITDA(1) 30.4 26.6 14.3%
EBITA(1) 10.1 7.0 44.3%
(1) before exceptional costs
Revenue totalled GBP174.8m, representing an increase of 12.6%
(3.9% before planned fleet disposals). The EBITA margin before
exceptional costs was 5.8% (2015: 4.5%). Headcount during the
period fell by 3.9% to 3,067 following a restructure of the
operating divisions and further reductions centrally.
6 months 6 months
ended ended
International Asset Services 30 September 30 September Movement
2016 2015 %
GBPm GBPm
Revenue 12.3 9.8 25.5%
EBITDA(1) 2.3 1.3 76.9%
EBITA(1) 0.9 0.1 >100%
(1) before exceptional costs
Revenue increased by 25.5% to GBP12.3m (2015: GBP9.8m), of which
GBP1.2m was due to FX movements, with the remainder due to the
mobilisation of new equipment. EBITA was GBP0.9m (2015:
GBP0.1m).
Major shutdown activity in Kazakhstan increased our share of
profit from the joint venture to GBP1.0m (2015: GBP0.3m).
Exceptional costs
Exceptional items totalled GBP0.5m before taxation (2015:
GBP14.2m), and are included within administrative costs.
Exceptional costs of GBP1.3m related to a restructuring of the
UK & Ireland business and September's general meeting.
Offsetting these was a GBP0.8m credit due to the revision of the
International asset disposal receivables provision, as cash has
been received in the period.
Interest and taxation
Interest expense in the period reduced to GBP2.6m (2015:
GBP2.8m) as a result of lower net debt.
The GBP1.2m tax charge for the period represents an effective
tax rate of 20.3% pre-exceptional costs (2015: 42.9%); 22.2% post
exceptional costs (2015: 15.6%). This has been calculated by
reference to the projected charge for the full year ending 31 March
2017.
Dividend
The Board has approved an increase in the interim dividend of
10.0% to 0.33 pence per share, at a total cash cost of
approximately GBP1.7m. The FY17 interim dividend will be paid on 27
January 2017 to shareholders on the register on 16 December
2016.
Capex and disposals
Purchases of property, plant and equipment reduced to GBP23.4m
(2015: GBP43.4m), of which GBP21.5m (2015: GBP37.7m) related to
investment in equipment for hire, and the balance principally to
investment in IT infrastructure and improvements to the property
network. This reduction reflects management's focus to only
purchase assets which have a satisfactory return.
Proceeds from the disposal of property, plant and equipment
amounted to GBP19.7m in the period (2015: GBP9.3m). Group net capex
totalled GBP3.7m (2015: GBP34.1m). Asset disposals generated a loss
of GBP0.9m (2015: loss GBP0.4m) against their carrying value.
Cash flow and net debt
Cash from operations before changes in the hire fleet amounted
to GBP25.6m (2015: GBP41.7m). After investment in hire fleet, the
depot network and IT, net cash flow (before dividends and financing
activities) amounted to an inflow of GBP19.2m (2015: inflow
GBP5.0m).
Net debt reduced in the period to GBP85.4m (31 March 2016:
GBP102.6m) with net debt to EBITDA (rolling 12 months) at 1.47x (31
March 2016: 1.93x) and gearing decreasing to 46.8% (31 March 2016:
57.5%).
This further strengthening of the cash position resulted in
headroom within the Group's committed GBP180m bank facility
improving to GBP76.1m at 30 September 2016 (31 March 2016:
GBP54.8m). The facility is currently covenant-free.
Balance sheet
Net assets at 30 September 2016 totalled GBP182.3m (31 March
2016: GBP178.4m), equivalent to 34.8p per share. Net debt/ net
tangible fixed assets was 0.35x at 30 September 2016 (31 March
2016: 0.39x), underlining the strong asset backing within the
business.
Net capex in the period was GBP18.3m below the Group's
depreciation charge (2015: GBP13.0m above). The focus on improving
the quality of the hire fleet resulted in net property, plant and
equipment reducing from GBP264.6m at the beginning of the period,
to GBP244.9m at 30 September 2016. Equipment for hire represented
82.7% (31 March 2016: 83.3%) of net property, plant and equipment
of which GBP8.9m (31 March 2016: GBP9.1m) related to the
International business.
Intangible assets are being amortised over their useful lives
and will be fully amortised by the end of the financial year.
Gross trade receivables totalled GBP100.6m at 30 September 2016
(2015: GBP97.3m). Debtor days, before the heavy plant disposal,
were 70.7 days (2015: 75.9 days).
Trade payables were GBP40.8m (2015: GBP57.9m), reflecting the
reduced spend on capex and a reduction in creditor days to 95.9
days (2015: 108.1 days).
Return on capital employed (on a rolling 12 month basis)
increased to 5.1% (31 March 2016: 3.2%).
Principal risks and uncertainties
The Group faces a number of risks and uncertainties which could
have a material impact upon its long-term performance. These risks
are both internal and external. The Board has an established set of
processes which assists in the identification, evaluation and
management of these risks.
The principal risks and uncertainties facing the Group at 31
March 2016 were set out on pages 24 to 27 of the 2016 Annual Report
(a copy of which is available from the Group's website at
www.speedyservices.com). These risks remain valid as regards their
potential to impact the Group during the second half of the current
financial year and no new significant risks have been identified
during the current period.
Interim condensed consolidated income statement
Six months ended Six months ended
30 September 30 September
2016 2015
---------------------------------- ----------------------------------
Before Before
Exceptional Exceptional Exceptional Exceptional
items items Total items items Total
Note GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
Total revenue 190.7 - 190.7 167.1 - 167.1
Less: share of jointly
controlled entity's
revenue (3.6) - (3.6) (2.1) - (2.1)
----------------------- --------- ------------ ------------- ---------- ------------ ------------- ----------
Revenue 4 187.1 - 187.1 165.0 - 165.0
Cost of sales (91.7) - (91.7) (70.9) - (70.9)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Gross profit 95.4 - 95.4 94.1 - 94.1
Distribution costs (16.6) - (16.6) (16.3) - (16.3)
Administrative costs (71.3) (0.5) (71.8) (74.6) (14.2) (88.8)
Analysis of operating
profit
Operating profit
before amortisation
and exceptional
costs 8.4 - 8.4 4.5 - 4.5
Amortisation (0.9) - (0.9) (1.3) - (1.3)
Exceptional costs 3 - (0.5) (0.5) - (14.2) (14.2)
----------------------- --------- ------------ ------------- ---------- ------------ ------------- ----------
Operating profit/
(loss) 7.5 (0.5) 7.0 3.2 (14.2) (11.0)
Share of results
of jointly controlled
entity 1.0 - 1.0 0.3 - 0.3
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Profit/ (loss) from
operations 8.5 (0.5) 8.0 3.5 (14.2) (10.7)
Financial expense 5 (2.6) - (2.6) (2.8) - (2.8)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Profit/ (loss) before
taxation 5.9 (0.5) 5.4 0.7 (14.2) (13.5)
Taxation 6 (1.2) - (1.2) (0.3) 2.4 2.1
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Profit/ (loss) for
the financial period 4.7 (0.5) 4.2 0.4 (11.8) (11.4)
Earnings per share
- Basic (pence) 7 0.81 (2.21)
- Diluted (pence) 7 0.81 (2.21)
Non-GAAP performance
measures
EBITDA before
exceptional
costs 9 30.4 25.6
Profit before tax,
amortisation and
exceptional costs 9 6.8 2.0
Adjusted earnings
per share (pence) 7 1.04 0.29
Interim condensed consolidated income statement (continued)
Year ended
31 March 2016
----------------------------------
Before
Exceptional Exceptional
items items Total
Note GBPm GBPm GBPm
Total revenue 333.4 - 333.4
Less: share of jointly
controlled entity's
revenue (4.3) - (4.3)
------------------------------ ---- ------------ -------------- ----------
---------- ---------- ----------
Revenue 4 329.1 - 329.1
Cost of sales (144.9) - (144.9)
---------- ---------- ----------
Gross profit 184.2 - 184.2
Distribution costs (31.8) - (31.8)
Administrative costs (145.1) (59.9) (205.0)
Analysis of operating
profit
Operating profit before
amortisation and exceptional
costs 10.0 - 10.0
Amortisation (2.7) - (2.7)
Exceptional costs 3 - (59.9) (59.9)
------------------------------ ---- ------------ -------------- ----------
Operating profit/
(loss) 7.3 (59.9) (52.6)
Share of results of
jointly controlled
entity 0.7 - 0.7
---------- ---------- ----------
Profit/ (loss) from
operations 8.0 (59.9) (51.9)
Financial expense 5 (5.7) - (5.7)
---------- ---------- ----------
Profit/ (loss) before
taxation 2.3 (59.9) (57.6)
Taxation 6 (0.6) 5.5 4.9
---------- ---------- ----------
Profit/ (loss) for
the financial period 1.7 (54.4) (52.7)
Earnings per share
* Basic (pence) 7 (10.19)
* Diluted (pence) 7 (10.19)
Non-GAAP performance
measures
EBITDA before exceptional
costs 9 53.1
Profit before tax,
amortisation and exceptional
costs 9 5.0
Adjusted earnings
per share (pence) 7 0.79
Interim condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive
income
Six months Six months
ended ended Year ended
30 September 30 September 31 March
2016 2015 2016
GBPm GBPm GBPm
Profit/ (loss) for the financial
period 4.2 (11.4) (52.7)
---------- ---------- ----------
Other comprehensive income
that may be reclassified
subsequently to the Income
Statement:
- Effective portion of change
in fair value of cash flow
hedges (0.1) (0.1) (0.3)
- Exchange difference on
retranslation of foreign
operations 1.8 (1.0) -
- Tax on items taken directly
to equity (0.5) - -
---------- ---------- ----------
Other comprehensive income/
(loss), net of tax 1.2 (1.1) (0.3)
---------- ---------- ----------
Total comprehensive income/
(loss) for the financial
period 5.4 (12.5) (53.0)
Interim condensed consolidated balance sheet
30 September 30 September 31 March
2016 2015 2016
Note GBPm GBPm GBPm
ASSETS
Non-current assets
Intangible assets 0.7 47.3 1.6
Investment in jointly
controlled entity 6.4 4.9 4.9
Property, plant and equipment
- Hire equipment 10 202.5 224.9 220.4
- Non-hire equipment 10 42.4 42.5 44.2
Deferred tax assets 1.4 1.1 1.5
---------- ---------- ----------
253.4 320.7 272.6
---------- ---------- ----------
Current assets
Inventories 7.8 8.2 6.0
Trade and other receivables 101.0 95.8 85.2
Current tax assets 0.9 0.7 3.1
Cash 11 0.2 15.6 4.4
---------- ---------- ----------
109.9 120.3 98.7
---------- ---------- ----------
Total assets 363.3 441.0 371.3
---------- ---------- ----------
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities
Borrowings 11 (0.3) - (0.1)
Other financial liabilities (0.8) (0.5) (0.7)
Trade and other payables (85.4) (90.9) (73.9)
Provisions (1.6) (2.2) (2.5)
---------- ---------- ----------
(88.1) (93.6) (77.2)
---------- ---------- ----------
Non-current liabilities
Borrowings 11 (85.3) (118.2) (106.9)
Trade and other payables (0.4) (0.6) (0.8)
Provisions (0.5) (1.6) (0.9)
Deferred tax liabilities (6.7) (7.2) (7.1)
---------- ---------- ----------
(92.9) (127.6) (115.7)
---------- ---------- ----------
Total liabilities (181.0) (221.2) (192.9)
---------- ---------- ----------
Net assets 182.3 219.8 178.4
EQUITY
Share capital 26.2 26.1 26.1
Share premium 191.4 191.1 191.4
Merger reserve 1.0 1.0 1.0
Hedging reserve (1.0) (0.7) (0.9)
Translation reserve (0.4) (2.9) (1.7)
Retained earnings (34.9) 5.2 (37.5)
---------- ---------- ----------
182.3 219.8 178.4
Interim condensed consolidated statement of changes in
equity
Share Share Merger Hedging Translation Retained Total
capital premium reserve reserve reserve Earnings equity
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
At 1 April 2015 26.1 191.0 1.0 (0.6) (1.9) 18.4 234.0
Total comprehensive
loss - - - (0.1) (1.0) (11.4) (12.5)
Dividends - - - - - (2.0) (2.0)
Equity settled share-based
payments - - - - - 0.2 0.2
Issue of shares
under the Sharesave
Scheme - 0.1 - - - - 0.1
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
At 30 September
2015 26.1 191.1 1.0 (0.7) (2.9) 5.2 219.8
Total comprehensive
(loss)/ income - - - (0.2) 1.0 (41.3) (40.5)
Dividends - - - - - (1.6) (1.6)
Tax on items taken
directly to equity - - - - 0.2 (0.1) 0.1
Equity settled share-based
payments - - - - - 0.3 0.3
Issue of shares
under the Sharesave
Scheme - 0.3 - - - - 0.3
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
At 31 March 2016 26.1 191.4 1.0 (0.9) (1.7) (37.5) 178.4
Total comprehensive
(loss)/ income - - - (0.1) 1.3 4.2 5.4
Dividends - - - - - (2.1) (2.1)
Equity settled share-based
payments - - - - - 0.3 0.3
Issue of shares
under the Sharesave
Scheme 0.1 - - - - - 0.1
Tax on items taken
directly to equity - - - - - 0.2 0.2
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
At 30 September
2016 26.2 191.4 1.0 (1.0) (0.4) (34.9) 182.3
Interim condensed consolidated statement of cash flow
Six months Six months
ended ended Year ended
30 September 30 September 31 March
2016 2015 2016
GBPm GBPm GBPm
Cash generated from operating
activities
Profit/ (loss) before
tax 5.4 (13.5) (57.6)
Financial expense 2.6 2.8 5.7
Amortisation 0.9 1.3 2.7
Depreciation 22.0 21.1 43.1
Share of profit of equity
accounted investees (1.0) (0.3) (0.7)
Loss/ (profit) on disposal
of hire equipment 0.9 0.4 (0.7)
Impairment of goodwill - - 45.9
Decrease in inventories 0.3 1.3 3.6
Decrease in net assets
held for sale - 1.8 1.8
(Increase)/ decrease
in trade and other receivables (15.8) 18.7 30.0
Increase/ (decrease)
in trade and other payables 11.3 8.3 (6.8)
Movement in provisions (1.3) (0.4) (0.8)
Equity-settled share-based
payments 0.3 0.2 0.5
---------- ---------- ----------
Cash generated from operations
before changes in hire
fleet 25.6 41.7 66.7
Purchase of hire equipment (21.5) (37.7) (57.8)
Proceeds from sale of
hire equipment 19.7 9.0 17.0
---------- ---------- ----------
Cash generated from operations 23.8 13.0 25.9
Interest paid (2.4) (2.6) (4.9)
Tax received/ (paid) 0.1 (0.6) (0.6)
---------- ---------- ----------
Net cash flow from operating
activities 21.5 9.8 20.4
---------- ---------- ----------
Cash flow from investing
activities
Purchase of non-hire
property, plant and equipment (1.9) (5.7) (11.2)
Proceeds from sale of
non-hire property, plant
and equipment - 0.3 0.6
Acquisition of subsidiary,
net of cash acquired - - (1.5)
Movement in investment
in jointly controlled
entity (0.4) 0.6 0.3
---------- ---------- ----------
Net cash flow to investing
activities (2.3) (4.8) (11.8)
---------- ---------- ----------
Net cash flow before
financing activities 19.2 5.0 8.6
---------- ---------- ----------
Cash flow from financing
activities
Finance lease payments (0.2) - -
Drawdown of loans 195.4 214.1 393.9
Payment of loans (216.6) (200.2) (393.5)
Proceeds from the issue
of Sharesave Scheme shares 0.1 0.1 0.4
Dividends paid (2.1) (2.0) (3.6)
---------- ---------- ----------
Net cash flow from financing
activities (23.4) 12.0 (2.8)
---------- ---------- ----------
(Decrease)/ increase
in cash and cash equivalents (4.2) 17.0 5.8
Cash/ (overdraft) at
the start of the period 4.4 (1.4) (1.4)
---------- ---------- ----------
Cash at the end of the
period 0.2 15.6 4.4
Analysis of cash and
cash equivalents
Cash 11 0.2 15.6 4.4
Interim reconciliation of net debt
Note Six months Six months
ended ended Year ended
30 September 30 September 31 March
2016 2015 2016
GBPm GBPm GBPm
Net (decrease)/ increase
in cash and cash equivalents (4.2) 17.0 5.8
Decrease/ (increase)
in borrowings 11 21.5 (13.9) (1.1)
Finance lease liabilities 11 0.2 - (1.2)
Amortisation of loan
costs 11 (0.3) (0.4) (0.8)
---------- ---------- ----------
Change in net debt during
the period 17.2 2.7 2.7
---------- ---------- ----------
Net debt at 1 April (102.6) (105.3) (105.3)
---------- ---------- ----------
Net debt at the end of
the period (85.4) (102.6) (102.6)
1 Basis of preparation
Speedy Hire Plc ('the Company') is a company incorporated and
domiciled in the United Kingdom. The interim financial statements
of the Company as at and for the six months ended 30 September 2016
comprise the Company and its subsidiaries (together referred to as
'the Group').
The financial statements of the Group for the year ended 31
March 2016 are available from the Company's registered office, or
from the website: www.speedyservices.com.
The Group meets its day to day working capital requirements
through operating cash flows, supplemented as necessary by
borrowings. The Directors have prepared cash flow projections for
the period to March 2018 which show that the Group is capable of
continuing to operate within its existing loan facilities and can
meet the covenant tests set out within the Facilities. The key
assumptions on which the projections are based include an
assessment of the impact of future market conditions on projected
revenues and an assessment of the net capital investment required
to support the expected level of revenues.
Whilst the Directors consider that there is a degree of
subjectivity involved in their assumptions, on the basis of the
above the Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Company
and the Group have adequate resources to continue in operational
existence for the foreseeable future. Accordingly, they continue to
adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the
interim financial statements.
Statement of compliance
These condensed consolidated interim financial statements have
been prepared in accordance with IAS34 Interim Financial Reporting
as adopted by the European Union (EU) and the Disclosure and
Transparency Rules (DTR) of the UK FCA. As required by the latter,
the interim financial statements have been prepared applying the
accounting policies and presentation that were applied in the
Company's published consolidated financial statements for the year
ended 31 March 2016 except as described below. They do not include
all the information required for full annual financial statements,
and should be read in conjunction with the Group's consolidated
financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 March
2016.
The comparative figures for the financial year ended 31 March
2016 are not the Company's statutory accounts for that financial
year. Those accounts which were prepared under IFRS as adopted by
the EU (adopted IFRS) have been reported on by the Company's
auditors and delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The report of
the auditors was (i) unqualified, (ii) did not include a reference
to any matters to which the auditors drew attention by way of
emphasis without qualifying their report, and (iii) did not contain
a statement under section 498(2) or (3) of the Companies Act
2006.
The interim report was approved by the Board of Directors on 15
November 2016.
Significant accounting policies
The accounting policies applied by the Group in these condensed
consolidated interim financial statements are the same as those
applied by the Group in its consolidated financial statements as at
and for the year ended 31 March 2016.
The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and
International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee
('IFRIC') have not issued or endorsed any new standards or
interpretations since the date of the 31 March 2016 year end
financial statements.
Seasonality
In addition to economic factors, revenues are subject to a small
element of seasonal fluctuation largely driven by certain UK public
holidays and their impact on the billing cycle, resulting in
marginally fewer trading days in the second half of the year.
Whilst construction activity tends to increase in the summer
months, the equipment range helps to mitigate the impact,
specifically with heating, lighting and power generation products
being more heavily required in the winter months. Overall, the
Directors do not feel that these factors have a material effect on
the performance of the Group when comparing first half results to
those achieved in the second half.
2 Changes in estimates
The preparation of interim financial statements requires
management to make judgements, estimates, and assumptions that
affect the application of accounting policies and the reported
amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expense. Actual
results may differ from these estimates.
In preparing the interim financial statements, the significant
judgements made by management in applying the Group's accounting
policies and key sources of estimation uncertainty for the
consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2016
continued to apply.
3 Exceptional items
During the period, exceptional administrative costs of GBP1.3m
were incurred, and exceptional income of GBP0.8m received.
Exceptional costs of GBP0.8m were incurred restructuring the UK
& Ireland core tools, lifting and survey business into two
regional operating divisions, along with further reductions
centrally.
GBP0.5m of professional fees were incurred in relation to the
September general meeting.
Following the provision made in the financial year ended 31
March 2016 in respect of outstanding International asset disposal
receivables, income has been received reducing the balance
outstanding. The reduction in the provision has been included as an
exceptional item.
In the prior period, exceptional costs of GBP14.2m were incurred
in respect of operational restructuring, network reconfiguration
and provisions relating to outstanding receivables on International
asset disposals.
4 Segmental analysis
The segmental disclosure presented in the financial statements
reflects the format of reports reviewed by the Chief Operating
Decision Maker (CODM). UK and Ireland Asset Services deliver asset
management, with tailored services and a continued commitment to
relationship management. International Asset Services deliver major
overseas projects and facilities management contracts by providing
a managed site support service.
For the six months ended 30 September 2016
UK and International Corporate
Ireland Asset Services items Total
Asset Services
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
Revenue 174.8 12.3 - 187.1
Segment result:
EBITDA before exceptional
costs 30.4 2.3 (2.3) 30.4
Depreciation (20.3) (1.4) (0.3) (22.0)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Operating profit/
(loss) before amortisation
and exceptional items 10.1 0.9 (2.6) 8.4
Amortisation (0.9) - - (0.9)
Exceptional costs (0.8) 0.8 (0.5) (0.5)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Operating profit/
(loss) 8.4 1.7 (3.1) 7.0
Share of results
of jointly controlled
entity - 1.0 - 1.0
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Trading profit/ (loss) 8.4 2.7 (3.1) 8.0
Financial expense (2.6)
----------
Profit before tax 5.4
Taxation (1.2)
----------
Profit for the financial
period 4.2
Intangible assets 0.7 - - 0.7
Investment in jointly
controlled entity - 6.4 - 6.4
Hire equipment 193.6 8.9 - 202.5
Non-hire equipment 39.0 3.4 - 42.4
Taxation assets - - 2.3 2.3
Current assets 94.7 13.8 0.3 108.8
Cash - - 0.2 0.2
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total assets 328.0 32.5 2.8 363.3
Liabilities (71.5) (9.7) (7.5) (88.7)
Borrowings - - (85.6) (85.6)
Taxation liabilities - - (6.7) (6.7)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total liabilities (71.5) (9.7) (99.8) (181.0)
Capital expenditure 22.4 1.0 - 23.4
4 Segmental analysis (continued)
For the six months ended 30 September 2015
UK and International Corporate
Ireland Asset items Total
Asset Services Services
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
Revenue 155.2 9.8 - 165.0
Segment result:
EBITDA before exceptional
costs 26.6 1.3 (2.3) 25.6
Depreciation (19.6) (1.2) (0.3) (21.1)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Operating profit/
(loss) before amortisation
and exceptional items 7.0 0.1 (2.6) 4.5
Amortisation (1.3) - - (1.3)
Exceptional costs (4.4) (8.2) (1.6) (14.2)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Operating profit/
(loss) 1.3 (8.1) (4.2) (11.0)
Share of results
of jointly controlled
entity - 0.3 - 0.3
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Trading profit/ (loss) 1.3 (7.8) (4.2) (10.7)
Financial expense (2.8)
----------
Loss before tax (13.5)
Taxation 2.1
----------
Loss for the financial
period (11.4)
Intangible assets 47.3 - - 47.3
Investment in jointly
controlled entity - 4.9 - 4.9
Hire equipment 215.3 9.6 - 224.9
Non-hire equipment 39.3 3.2 - 42.5
Taxation assets - - 1.8 1.8
Current assets 92.3 10.9 0.8 104.0
Cash - - 15.6 15.6
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total assets 394.2 28.6 18.2 441.0
Liabilities (79.4) (8.6) (7.8) (95.8)
Borrowings - - (118.2) (118.2)
Taxation liabilities - - (7.2) (7.2)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total liabilities (79.4) (8.6) (133.2) (221.2)
Capital expenditure 41.0 2.4 - 43.4
4 Segmental analysis (continued)
For the year ended 31 March 2016
UK and International Corporate
Ireland Asset Services items Total
Asset Services
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
Revenue 308.7 20.4 - 329.1
Segment result:
EBITDA before exceptional
costs 54.2 3.2 (4.3) 53.1
Depreciation (39.7) (2.6) (0.8) (43.1)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Operating profit/
(loss) before amortisation
and exceptional items 14.5 0.6 (5.1) 10.0
Amortisation (2.7) - - (2.7)
Exceptional costs (52.2) (6.1) (1.6) (59.9)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Operating loss (40.4) (5.5) (6.7) (52.6)
Share of results
of jointly controlled
entity - 0.7 - 0.7
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Trading loss (40.4) (4.8) (6.7) (51.9)
Financial expense (5.7)
----------
Profit before tax (57.6)
Taxation 4.9
----------
Profit for the financial
period (52.7)
Intangible assets 1.6 - - 1.6
Investment in jointly
controlled entity - 4.9 - 4.9
Hire equipment 211.3 9.1 - 220.4
Non-hire equipment 40.9 3.3 - 44.2
Taxation assets - - 4.6 4.6
Current assets 81.5 9.3 0.4 91.2
Cash - - 4.4 4.4
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total assets 335.3 26.6 9.4 371.3
Liabilities (66.5) (6.8) (5.5) (78.8)
Borrowings - - (107.0) (107.0)
Taxation liabilities - - (7.1) (7.1)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total liabilities (66.5) (6.8) (119.6) (192.9)
Capital expenditure 66.0 3.0 - 69.0
4 Segmental analysis (continued)
Corporate costs comprise certain central activities and costs,
which are not directly related to the activities of the operating
segments.
The financing of the Group's activities is undertaken at head
office level and consequently net financing costs cannot be
analysed by segment. The unallocated net assets comprise
principally working capital balances held by the Support Services
function and are not directly attributable to the activities of the
operating segments, together with net corporate borrowings and
taxation.
Geographical information
In presenting geographical information, revenue is based on the
geographical location of customers. Assets are based on the
geographical location of the assets.
Six months Six months
ended ended Year ended
30 September 30 September 31 March 2016
2016 2015
-------------------------- -------------------------- --------------------------
Total Total Total
Revenue assets Revenue assets Revenue assets
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
UK 171.3 318.3 152.2 403.1 303.1 334.9
Ireland 3.5 12.5 3.0 9.0 5.6 9.8
Other countries 12.3 32.5 9.8 28.9 20.4 26.6
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
187.1 363.3 165.0 441.0 329.1 371.3
Major customer
No one customer represents more than 10% of revenue, reported
profit or combined assets of all reporting segments.
5 Financial expense
Six months Six months
ended ended Year ended
30 September 30 September 31 March
2016 2015 2016
GBPm GBPm GBPm
Interest on bank loans and
overdrafts 1.8 2.0 4.2
Amortisation of issue costs 0.3 0.3 0.8
---------- ---------- ----------
2.1 2.3 5.0
Hedge interest payable 0.2 0.2 0.3
Other finance costs 0.3 0.2 0.4
Foreign exchange losses - 0.1 -
---------- ---------- ----------
Finance expense 2.6 2.8 5.7
6 Taxation
The corporation tax charge for the six months ended 30 September
2016 is based on an effective rate of taxation of 20.3% before
exceptional items (2015: 42.9%); and 22.2% (2015: 15.6%) after
exceptional items. This has been calculated by reference to the
projected charge for the full year ending 31 March 2017, applying
the applicable UK corporation tax rate of 20% (2015: 21%). Deferred
tax is provided using the tax rates that are expected to apply to
the period in which the liability is settled, based on the tax
rates that have been enacted at the balance sheet date, 30
September 2016.
7 Earnings per share
The calculation of basic earnings per share is based on the
earnings attributable to equity holders of the Company of GBP4.2m
(2015: loss GBP11.4m) and the weighted average number of 5 pence
ordinary shares in issue and is calculated as follows:
Six months Six months
ended ended Year ended
30 September 30 September 31 March
2016 2015 2016
Profit/ (loss) (GBPm)
Profit/ (loss) for the period
after tax - basic earnings 4.2 (11.4) (52.7)
Intangible amortisation
charge (after tax) 0.7 1.1 2.4
Exceptional items (after
tax) 0.5 11.8 54.4
---------- ---------- ----------
Adjusted earnings (after
tax) 5.4 1.5 4.1
Weighted average number
of shares in issue (m)
At the beginning of the
period 519.2 515.6 515.6
Change in weighted average
number of ordinary shares 0.1 0.6 1.7
---------- ---------- ----------
At the end of the period
- basic number of shares 519.3 516.2 517.3
Share options 2.0 - 1.7
Employee share schemes - - 0.5
---------- ---------- ----------
At the end of the period
- diluted number of shares 521.3 516.2 519.5
Earnings per share (pence)
Basic earnings per share 0.81 (2.21) (10.19)
Amortisation 0.13 0.21 0.47
Exceptional costs 0.10 2.29 10.51
---------- ---------- ----------
Adjusted earnings per share 1.04 0.29 0.79
Basic earnings per share 0.81 (2.21) (10.19)
---------- ---------- ----------
Diluted earnings per share 0.81 (2.21) (10.19)
Adjusted earnings per share 1.04 0.29 0.79
---------- ---------- ----------
Adjusted diluted earnings
per share 1.04 0.29 0.79
Total number of shares outstanding at 30 September 2016 amounted
to 523,452,759, including 4,146,598 shares held in the Employee
Benefit Trust, which are excluded in calculating the earnings per
share.
8 Dividends
The aggregate amount of dividend comprises:
Six months Six months
ended ended Year ended
30 September 30 September 31 March
2016 2015 2016
GBPm GBPm GBPm
2015 final dividend (0.40
pence on 521.9m ordinary
shares) - 2.0 2.0
2016 interim dividend (0.30
pence on 522.1m ordinary
shares) - - 1.6
2016 final dividend (0.40
pence on 523.4m ordinary
shares) 2.1 - -
---------- ---------- ----------
2.1 2.0 3.6
Subsequent to the end of the period, and not included in the
results for the period, the Directors have declared an interim
dividend of 0.33 pence (2016 interim dividend: 0.30 pence) per
share, to be paid on 27 January 2017 to shareholders on the
register on 16 December 2016.
9 Non-GAAP performance measures
The Group believes that the measures below provide valuable
additional information for users of the financial statements in
assessing the Group's performance. The Group uses these measures
for planning, budgeting and reporting purposes and for its internal
assessment of the operating performance of the individual divisions
within the Group.
Six months Six months
ended ended Year ended
30 September 30 September 31 March
2016 2015 2016
GBPm GBPm GBPm
Operating profit/ (loss) 7.0 (11.0) (52.6)
Add back: amortisation 0.9 1.3 2.7
Add back: exceptional costs 0.5 14.2 59.9
---------- ---------- ----------
Operating profit before
amortisation and exceptional
costs 8.4 4.5 10.0
Add back: depreciation 22.0 21.1 43.1
---------- ---------- ----------
EBITDA before exceptional
costs 30.4 25.6 53.1
Profit/ (loss) before tax 5.4 (13.5) (57.6)
Add back: amortisation 0.9 1.3 2.7
Add back: exceptional costs 0.5 14.2 59.9
---------- ---------- ----------
Profit before tax, amortisation
and exceptional costs 6.8 2.0 5.0
10 Property, plant and equipment
Land and Hire
buildings equipment Other Total
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
Cost
At 1 April 2015 52.3 364.3 72.6 489.2
Foreign exchange (0.1) (0.1) - (0.2)
Additions 1.8 39.5 3.9 45.2
Disposals (0.7) (18.9) (0.2) (19.8)
Transfers to inventory - (4.0) - (4.0)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
At 30 September 2015 53.3 380.8 76.3 510.4
Foreign exchange 0.4 0.4 - 0.8
Acquisition through
business combinations - 1.7 0.3 2.0
Additions 1.6 18.3 3.9 23.8
Disposals (0.6) (15.4) (0.1) (16.1)
Transfers to inventory - (6.8) - (6.8)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
At 31 March 2016 54.7 379.0 80.4 514.1
Foreign exchange 0.4 0.5 - 0.9
Additions 0.6 22.4 1.3 24.3
Disposals (0.3) (21.7) - (22.0)
Transfers to inventory - (22.2) - (22.2)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
At 30 September 2016 55.4 358.0 81.7 495.1
Depreciation
At 1 April 2015 24.5 152.0 59.4 235.9
Foreign exchange - 0.1 - 0.1
Charged in period 1.6 17.3 2.2 21.1
Disposals (0.4) (11.5) (0.2) (12.1)
Transfers to inventory - (2.0) - (2.0)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
At 30 September 2015 25.7 155.9 61.4 243.0
Foreign exchange 0.1 0.1 - 0.2
Charged in period 1.6 17.9 2.5 22.0
Disposals (0.4) (11.8) - (12.2)
Transfers to inventory - (3.5) - (3.5)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
At 31 March 2016 27.0 158.6 63.9 249.5
Foreign exchange 0.1 0.1 - 0.2
Charged in period 1.7 18.0 2.3 22.0
Disposals (0.3) (15.0) - (15.3)
Transfers to inventory - (6.2) - (6.2)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
At 30 September 2016 28.5 155.5 66.2 250.2
Net book value
At 30 September 2016 26.9 202.5 15.5 244.9
At 31 March 2016 27.7 220.4 16.5 264.6
At 30 September 2015 27.6 224.9 14.9 267.4
11 Borrowings
30 September 30 September 31 March
2016 2015 2016
GBPm GBPm GBPm
Current borrowings
Finance lease liabilities 0.3 - 0.1
Non-current borrowings
Maturing between two and
five years
- Asset backed facilities 84.6 118.2 105.8
- Finance lease liabilities 0.7 - 1.1
---------- ---------- ----------
Total non-current borrowings 85.3 118.2 106.9
---------- ---------- ----------
Total borrowings 85.6 118.2 107.0
Less: cash (0.2) (15.6) (4.4)
---------- ---------- ----------
85.4 102.6 102.6
The Group has a GBP180m revolving credit facility which is sub
divided into:
(i) A secured overdraft facility, provided by Barclays Bank Plc
which secures by cross guarantees and debentures the bank deposits
and overdrafts of the Company and certain subsidiary companies up
to a maximum of GBP5m.
(ii) An asset based revolving credit facility of up to GBP175m.
The availability of this facility is dependent upon the Group's
hire equipment and trade receivables. The headroom on this facility
as at 30 September 2016 was GBP76.1m (2015: GBP51.4m) based on the
Group's eligible hire equipment and trade receivables.
The facility is for GBP180m, but it is reduced to the extent
that any ancillary facilities are provided, and is repayable in
September 2019, with no prior scheduled repayment requirements.
Interest on the facility is calculated by reference to the
London Inter Bank Offer Rate applicable to the period drawn, plus a
margin of 170 to 275 basis points, depending on leverage and on the
components of the borrowing base. During the period, the effective
margin was 2.50% (2015: 2.41%).
The facility is secured by a fixed and floating charge over all
the UK and Ireland assets and the overdraft and asset based
revolving credit facility are rated pari passu.
12 Contingent liabilities
The Group has given warranties (including taxation warranties
and indemnities) in relation to the disposal of certain businesses
in prior years. These warranties and indemnities expire at various
dates up to 2018.
In the normal course of business, the Company and certain
subsidiaries have given performance bonds issued on behalf of Group
companies and parental guarantees have been given in support of the
contractual obligations of Group companies on both a joint and a
several basis.
The Directors do not consider any provision is necessary in
respect of guarantees and bonds.
13 Commitments
The Group had contracted capital commitments amounting to
GBP2.6m (2015: GBP6.9m) at the end of the financial period for
which no provision has been made.
14 Related party disclosures
There has been no significant change to the nature and size of
related party transactions, including the remuneration provided to
the key management, from that disclosed in the 2016 Annual
Report.
Directors' Responsibilities
We confirm that to the best of our knowledge:
-- the condensed set of financial statements has been prepared
in accordance with IAS34 Interim Financial Reporting as adopted by
the EU;
-- the interim management report includes a fair review of the
information required by:
(a) DTR 4.2.7R of the Disclosure and Transparency Rules, being
an indication of important events that have occurred during the
first six months of the financial year and their impact on the
condensed set of financial statements; and a description of the
principal risks and uncertainties for the remaining six months of
the year; and
(b) DTR 4.2.8R of the Disclosure and Transparency Rules, being
related party transactions that have taken place in the first six
months of the current financial year and that have materially
affected the financial position or performance of the entity during
that period; and any changes in the related party transactions
described in the last Annual Report that could do so.
Thomas Christopher Morgan
Director
15 November 2016
Independent Review Report by KPMG LLP to Speedy Hire Plc
Introduction
We have been engaged by the Company to review the condensed set
of financial statements in the half-yearly financial report for the
six months ended 30 September 2016 which comprises the interim
condensed consolidated income statement, the interim condensed
consolidated statement of comprehensive income, the interim
condensed consolidated balance sheet, the interim condensed
consolidated cash flow statement, the interim condensed
consolidated statement of changes in equity and the related
explanatory notes. We have read the other information contained in
the half-yearly financial report and considered whether it contains
any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the
information in the condensed set of financial statements.
This report is made solely to the Company in accordance with the
terms of our engagement to assist the Company in meeting the
requirements of the Disclosure and Transparency Rules ("the DTR")
of the UK's Financial Conduct Authority ("the UK FCA"). Our review
has been undertaken so that we might state to the Company those
matters we are required to state to it in this report and for no
other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not
accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Company
for our review work, for this report, or for the conclusions we
have reached.
Directors' responsibilities
The half-yearly financial report is the responsibility of, and
has been approved by, the Directors. The Directors are responsible
for preparing the half-yearly financial report in accordance with
the DTR of the UK FCA.
As disclosed in note 1, the annual financial statements of the
Group are prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the EU.
The condensed set of financial statements included in this
half-yearly financial report has been prepared in accordance with
IAS34 Interim Financial Reporting as adopted by the EU.
Our responsibility
Our responsibility is to express to the Company a conclusion on
the condensed set of financial statements in the half-yearly
financial report based on our review.
Scope of review
We conducted our review in accordance with International
Standard on Review Engagements (UK and Ireland) 2410 Review of
Interim Financial Information Performed by the Independent Auditor
of the Entity issued by the Auditing Practices Board for use in the
UK. A review of interim financial information consists of making
enquiries, primarily of persons responsible for financial and
accounting matters, and applying analytical and other review
procedures. A review is substantially less in scope than an audit
conducted in accordance with International Standards on Auditing
(UK and Ireland) and consequently does not enable us to obtain
assurance that we would become aware of all significant matters
that might be identified in an audit. Accordingly, we do not
express an audit opinion.
Conclusion
Based on our review, nothing has come to our attention that
causes us to believe that the condensed set of financial statements
in the half-yearly financial report for the six months ended 30
September 2016 is not prepared, in all material respects, in
accordance with IAS34 as adopted by the EU and the DTR of the UK
FCA.
Chris Hearld
for and on behalf of KPMG LLP
Chartered Accountants
1 St Peter's Square, Manchester, M2 3AE
This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
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November 16, 2016 02:00 ET (07:00 GMT)