TIDMCLG
RNS Number : 6213Q
Clipper Logistics plc
01 December 2016
CLIPPER LOGISTICS PLC
"Continuing strong growth in line with expectations"
INTERIM RESULTS FOR THE SIX MONTHS TO 31 OCTOBER 2016
Clipper Logistics plc ("Clipper", "the Group", or "the
Company"), a leading provider of value-added logistics solutions
and e-fulfilment to the retail sector, is pleased to announce its
unaudited results for the six months ended 31 October 2016.
Financial Highlights
-- Group revenue up 16.5% to GBP164.9 million (2015: GBP141.5 million);
-- Group EBIT 23.2% ahead at GBP7.6 million (2015: GBP6.2 million),
reflecting strong performance across all service lines:
o E-fulfilment and returns management services EBIT up 21.7%
to GBP4.2 million (2015: GBP3.5 million);
o Non e-fulfilment logistics EBIT up 18.9% to GBP5.9 million
(2015: GBP5.0 million);
o Commercial vehicles EBIT up 20.4% to GBP1.3 million (2015:
GBP1.1 million);
-- Group Profit Before Tax (PBT) up 25.5% to GBP6.9 million (2015:
GBP5.5 million);
-- Cash generated from operations up 67.0% to GBP12.3 million (2015:
GBP7.4 million);
-- Earnings per share up 23.3% to 5.3 pence (2015: 4.3 pence);
-- Interim dividend increased by 20.0% to 2.4 pence per share (2015:
2.0 pence).
Operational Highlights
-- Extended the Click and Collect network for John Lewis to full national
coverage, and formally entered into a Joint Venture with John Lewis;
-- Click and Collect network now available to other retailers following
implementation of further software developments;
-- Successfully launched returns and pre-retail processing services
for John Lewis under a ten-year agreement at a new, shared-user
logistics facility in Northampton;
-- Agreed new contracts with M&S for returns and Halfords for inbound
bulk handling and storage;
-- Increased tobacco contract packing activities during transitional
arrangements due to the EU's Tobacco Packaging Directive;
-- Significant organic growth, both with long-standing customers and
with more recent start-ups;
-- Secured additional space at Daventry, Avonmouth and Tannochside
in the UK, and at Hof in Germany in order to service increasing
activity levels. Increased utilisation of space in Wynyard, Burton
and Swadlincote;
-- Evolution of the European business has continued to progress, with
new contracts secured in Germany which will contribute marginally
in the second half with full benefits in the next financial year;
-- Strong performance in commercial vehicles division driven by new
vehicle sales;
-- New Managing Directors appointed at Servicecare and in Germany to
drive and oversee strategic growth ambitions; and
-- Continuing strong pipeline of new business opportunities.
Commenting on the results, Steve Parkin, Executive Chairman of
Clipper, said:
"I am pleased to confirm that the Group has once again delivered
strong results in line with the Board's expectations.
Revenue and profit growth has been strong in all sectors, and we
have improved further our operating cashflow.
Our market-leading position in the high-growth area of
e-fulfilment and associated services, has been enhanced further by
the recent formalisation of a Joint Venture with John Lewis to
provide a Click and Collect service dedicated to the needs of high
street retailers. We expect this to significantly enhance profits
in future financial periods.
The first half of the current financial year saw strong organic
growth on existing contracts, particularly in the e-commerce
sector, and this was complemented by a number of new contract
wins.
The new business pipeline continues to be strong, and we expect
the positive momentum from existing and new contracts to continue
into the second half of the year.
The Group is pleased to announce an increased interim dividend
of 2.4 pence per share, which will be paid to shareholders on 30
December 2016.
The Board remains confident for the future, and look forward to
updating our shareholders and the markets throughout the year."
ENQUIRIES
Clipper: +44 (0)113 204 2050
Steve Parkin, Executive Chairman
Tony Mannix, Chief Executive Officer
David Hodkin, Chief Financial Officer
Bell Pottinger LLP: +44 (0)20 3772 2500
David Rydell
Dan de Belder
James Newman
This announcement contains inside information which is disclosed
in accordance with the Market Abuse Regulation which came into
effect on 3 July 2016.
About Clipper
Clipper Logistics plc (www.clippergroup.co.uk), which is premium
listed on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange, is a retail
logistics specialist, which provides value-added, consultancy-led
services to its blue chip client base. Clipper is a UK leader in
its markets, with a long-standing customer base in:
-- e-fulfilment
-- fashion
-- high-value logistics
A profitable and cash generative commercial vehicles business
complements the Group's logistics activities.
Cautionary statement
Any forward looking statements made in this document represent
the Board's best judgement as to what may occur in the future.
However, the Group's actual results for the current and future
financial periods and corporate developments will depend on a
number of economic, competitive and other factors, some of which
may be outside the control of the Group. Such factors could cause
the Group's actual results in future periods to differ materially
from those expressed in any forward looking statements included in
this announcement.
PERFORMANCE AT A GLANCE
6 months 6 months 12 months
ended 31 ended 31 ended 30
October 2016 October 2015 April 2016
(unaudited) (unaudited) Change (audited)
GBPm GBPm GBPm
-------------------------------- -------------- -------------- ------- ------------
Revenue 164.9 141.5 +16.5% 290.3
EBIT 7.6 6.2 +23.2% 14.5
Profit before tax 6.9 5.5 +25.5% 13.1
Earnings per share 5.3p 4.3p +23.3% 10.3p
Cash generated from operations 12.3 7.4 +67.0% 20.5
-------------------------------- -------------- -------------- ------- ------------
ALTERNATIVE PERFORMANCE MEASURES
The Group makes use of an Alternative Performance Measure (APM)
in the management of its operations and as a key component of its
internal and external reporting. In accordance with FRC guidance,
this is explained below.
Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) is defined as the
operating profit of the business and the Group's share of operating
profit in Joint Ventures and Associates. Due to the structure of
our contractual relationships, with approximately 70% of revenue in
our UK logistics operations being on open book terms, EBIT is the
key metric rather than EBIT margin or revenue. In the period under
review, the seasonality and start-up phase of our Click and Collect
operations have distorted the reported margin percentages. A
reconciliation of EBIT by business area to Group operating profit
and Group PBT is included in the Financial Review below and note 4
respectively.
GROUP RESULTS
The Group has enjoyed a successful first half of the year with
strong revenue and profit growth in line with the Board's
expectations.
The Group's strategic positioning in e-fulfilment and returns
management services delivered continued strong organic growth in
this sector.
Results for the six months ended 31 October 2016 benefited from
the full run-rate impact of those operations commenced in the prior
financial year, including Browns, Pep&Co, the Click and Collect
operations with John Lewis, M&Co, Kidly and new activities for
one of Ireland's biggest retailers.
Further, the Group has benefited from contracts which commenced
in the first half of the current year, including Gallaher Limited,
Links of London and the new activities at the new Northampton
facility for John Lewis and a major international retailer.
Organic growth has resulted from extensions to the scope of
operations for certain existing customers, including with Philip
Morris and Click and Collect for John Lewis. Further organic growth
has been driven by increased levels of activity on existing
operations, including those with ASOS and on certain transport
activities.
The combination of these factors resulted in EBIT from
e-fulfilment and returns management activities increasing by 21.7%
to GBP4.2 million (2015: GBP3.5 million), with EBIT from non
e-fulfilment activities increasing by 18.9% to GBP5.9 million
(2015: GBP5.0 million). This was further complemented by continuing
strong performance in the commercial vehicles division as new
vehicle sales continued to grow, resulting in an EBIT increase of
20.4% to GBP1.3 million (2015: GBP1.1 million).
Clipper's solution-driven proposition is underpinned by
continued investment in quality people and this resulted in some
increase in the central logistics and head office overhead bases,
including increased share based payment charges. As a result,
central logistics costs increased by GBP0.3 million to GBP2.6
million (2015: GBP2.3 million) and head office costs increased by
GBP0.2 million to GBP1.2 million (2015: GBP1.0 million).
In line with Clipper's progressive dividend policy and
reflecting the Group's strong cash flow and earnings growth, the
Board is pleased to announce an interim dividend of 2.4 pence per
share, which will be paid on 30 December 2016 to shareholders on
the register at 9 December 2016. This represents an increase of 20%
(0.4 pence per share) compared to the interim dividend of 2.0 pence
paid in December 2015.
STRATEGY
The Group's strategy is set around four key principles all of
which have seen positive developments over the period under
review:
-- To build on Clipper's market leading customer proposition and continue
to expand the customer base;
-- Develop new, complementary products and services;
-- Explore acquisition opportunities; and
-- Continue European expansion.
The Group continues to provide market-leading, value-added
logistics solutions to the retail sector in the UK as demonstrated
through further new contract wins with blue-chip clients. Examples
of these include a new ten-year contract with John Lewis to provide
ancillary services and returns management services, and new
contracts with Halfords, Links of London, M&S and Silkfred. The
Group is well-positioned in the high-growth e-commerce market and
as a result has seen significant volume increases with the majority
of its customers.
The Group continues to innovate in order to identify and address
the logistical challenges of retailers through the development of
new, complementary products and services. We have designed and
installed cutting-edge automation projects for certain of our
customers, introduced innovative returns management solutions for
others and implemented new stock and warehouse management systems.
We have recently entered into a Joint Venture arrangement with John
Lewis which not only services the Click and Collect needs of John
Lewis into Waitrose stores nationally, but is also now available
for other retailers. Additionally, there are a number of areas
where we are leveraging the complementary capabilities of Clipper
and Servicecare across each other's existing customer base.
The Group also continues to seek potential acquisitions
providing complementary activities. We continue to monitor the
market for potential targets and partners, both in the UK and
throughout Europe, which will deliver enhanced earnings and
increased shareholder value.
Our European activities have evolved significantly over the last
six months. A number of new customer contracts have been secured or
are at an advanced stage, including some cross-border operations
with UK customers. We expect to see further developments both in
Germany and further afield over the coming months and years.
OUTLOOK
Trading continues to be positive into the second half of the
year, with significant year-on-year increases in activity in all
sectors, enhanced by the impact of new contract wins coming
on-line. Further, the Click and Collect Joint Venture is expected
to enhance Group profitability into the second half of the
year.
Clipper achieved a very successful Black Friday to Cyber Monday
trading period for its clients. We expect to see continuing high
activity levels in the period through to Christmas and the Boxing
Day sales, particularly in e-fulfilment and returns management
services.
The Company is not experiencing any significant upward pressure
on its cost base, and the high proportion of open-book contracts
within its UK logistics operations provides a high degree of
protection against any future potential cost inflation.
The commercial vehicles business has achieved growth in excess
of expectations in the first half of the year and we expect the
business to continue to perform well.
The Board expects that the UK's decision to leave the European
Union will have little impact on the Group's trading for the
foreseeable future. The nature of contractual relationships in the
UK logistics sector, with approximately 70% of revenue on open book
terms, provides a very high degree of protection against both cost
inflation and volume downsides. Similarly, the Board expects that
there will be little or no impact within the commercial vehicles
sector. It remains to be seen whether the government's desire to
restrict immigration will have a longer term impact on labour
availability, but the Group's contractual structures mean that it
is well-placed to be able to compete for labour were that necessary
in the future.
Now that the Click and Collect collaboration with John Lewis has
been transferred into a Joint Venture, revenues and trading profits
will be accounted for differently from November onwards. Revenue of
the Joint Venture will no longer be reported as revenue of the
Group. However, any sales from Clipper to the Joint Venture will be
recognised within revenue of the Group. Clipper's 50% share of
EBIT, interest and tax charges within the Joint Venture will be
disclosed within the e-fulfilment EBIT, group interest and group
tax charges within the consolidated income statement.
BUSINESS REVIEW
Operational review
E-fulfilment and returns management services
E-fulfilment operations include the receipt, warehousing, stock
management, picking, packing and despatch of products on behalf of
customers to support their online trading activities, as well as a
range of ancillary support services. At no time does Clipper take
ownership of customers' products.
We continue to manage the return of products on behalf of
retailers, particularly those sold online, through our Boomerang
brand.
Revenues for e-fulfilment and returns management services have
increased 38.2% to GBP58.9 million in the six months ended 31
October 2016 (2015: GBP42.6 million). EBIT is 21.7% ahead of the
equivalent period in the prior year at GBP4.2 million (2015: GBP3.5
million).
We have seen continued migration in the retail sector to online
and omni-channel retailing; this has led to growth in the first
half of the year in activity levels for many of our existing
customers, including ASOS, Wilko, Love Knitting, John Lewis and
s.Oliver. The newly commenced Silkfred and Links of London
contracts will reach full annualised run rates in the year ending
April 2018.
In addition, we have taken on additional returns activity with
John Lewis in a new Northampton facility under the ten year
framework agreement signed in September 2016 and on a new M&S
returns contract, both contributing to earnings growth in the
current financial year.
We first announced a Click and Collect collaboration with John
Lewis last year. The geographical footprint of this operation
increased significantly in September 2016 from circa 30% of the
Waitrose store estate in the UK to the entire Waitrose store
estate. This operation has subsequently been formally transferred
into a Joint Venture, underlining the strong working relationship
we have with John Lewis. Further software developments have now
been completed which mean that we are able to leverage the
infrastructure by offering the service to other retailers.
In the period, we migrated certain Supergroup activities from
Burton to Ollerton and the Go Outdoors activities from Burton to
Swadlincote, both of which were necessary to prepare all of these
operations for expected growth. Additionally, the Northampton
operations have stepped up significantly, due to both organic
growth and the transfer of other activities from another logistics
provider.
Due to the structure of our contractual relationships, with
approximately 70% of revenue in our UK logistics operations being
on open book terms, EBIT is the key metric rather than EBIT margin.
In the period under review, the seasonality and start-up phase of
our Click and Collect operations have distorted reported margin
percentages.
Non e-fulfilment logistics
Non e-fulfilment operations include receipt, warehousing, stock
management, picking and distribution of products on behalf of
customers. Clipper does not take ownership of customers' products
at any time.
Within this sector, Clipper handles high value products,
including tobacco, electrical products and high value clothing,
whilst also undertaking traditional retail support services
including processing, storage and distribution of products,
particularly fashion, to high street retailers.
Revenues were 9.7% ahead of the prior year at GBP61.3 million
(2015: GBP55.9 million), and EBIT was 18.9% higher at GBP5.9
million (2015: GBP5.0 million).
Tobacco-related activities, whether contract packing, bonded
warehousing or transport operations, have contributed significantly
to the growth, both organically and through contract scope
extensions. The EU Tobacco Packaging Directive changes have
presented additional contract packing opportunities to Clipper.
The levels of activity on the Haddad and Pep&Co retail
contracts have ramped up significantly compared to the first six
months of the prior year, their first period as Clipper customers.
Conversely, Morrison's disposal of its convenience store portfolio
has had an adverse impact on activity and revenue.
Concurrently with new contract wins with Halfords and John
Lewis, we have taken on two additional logistics facilities in the
period at Daventry and Northampton. In addition, as a result of the
additional space requirements of the M&Co and the Click and
Collect transport operations, we have committed to additional
transport depot space in the period; we have relocated our
transport depots in the South West of England and in Scotland to
much larger facilities, not only to accommodate the current
requirements, but also to accommodate future growth.
Wöhrl, a new customer to Germany, has contributed to revenues in
the six months ended 31 October 2016. Additionally, organic revenue
growth was delivered with Recaro and s.Oliver. A contract with
Smiffys, a cross-border operation, is due to go live in December
and we are currently in discussion over a number of other European
opportunities.
As with e-fulfilment and returns management services, due to the
nature of contracts EBIT is the key performance metric for this
business activity.
Central logistics overheads
Central logistics overheads represent the costs of support
services specific to the logistics operations, but which cannot be
allocated in a meaningful way to the sub-segment activities.
Such costs include directorate, advertising and promotion,
accounting and IT, and the costs of the solutions development
team.
Central logistics overheads of GBP2.6 million increased by 12.3%
compared to the prior year (2015: GBP2.3 million), in line with
expectations, and reflect continued investment in strengthening the
solutions team, IT and marketing spend, and share based payment
charges.
Commercial vehicles
The commercial vehicles business, Northern Commercials, operates
Iveco and Fiat commercial vehicle dealerships from six locations,
together with four sub-dealerships. The business sells new and used
vehicles, provides servicing and repair facilities, and sells
parts. Vehicles sold and serviced range from small light commercial
vans, through to articulated tractor units.
Revenue of GBP45.6 million for the six months ended 31 October
2016 was 4.4% ahead of revenue for the same period last year (2015:
GBP43.7 million). The number of new vehicles sold has increased by
4.7% to 1,076 in the six months ended 31 October 2016 (2015:
1,028), driving most of the revenue growth. Such performance bodes
well for the future since new vehicles sales in any given year are
often a good barometer for after-sales revenues (i.e. parts and
servicing) in subsequent years.
EBIT increased by 20.4% to GBP1.3 million in the same period
2015: (GBP1.1 million). In addition to the year-on-year growth in
revenue from new vehicle sales, the margin achieved on new vehicle
sales also increased.
Financial Review
Revenue
Group revenue increased by 16.5% to GBP164.9 million (2015:
GBP141.5 million).
Revenue derived from value-added logistics services increased by
22.0% to GBP120.2 million (2015: GBP98.5 million), with growth in
both e-fulfilment and returns management services (38.2% higher)
and non e-fulfilment services (9.7% higher).
Revenue from sales and repairs of commercial vehicles increased
by 4.4% to GBP45.6 million (2015: GBP43.7 million). The increase
was driven primarily by new vehicle sales.
Revenue (unaudited) Six months to
31 October
2016 2015 Change
----------------------------------- ----------- ----------- -------
E-fulfilment & returns management GBP58.9 GBP42.6
services m m +38.2%
GBP61.3 GBP55.9
Non e-fulfilment logistics m m +9.7%
----------------------------------- ----------- ----------- -------
GBP120.2 GBP98.5
Total value-added logistics m m +22.0%
GBP45.6 GBP43.7
Commercial vehicles m m +4.4%
Intra-Group GBP(0.9)m GBP(0.7)m
----------------------------------- ----------- ----------- -------
GBP164.9 GBP141.5
Consolidated total m m +16.5%
----------------------------------- ----------- ----------- -------
EBIT
Group EBIT increased by 23.2% to GBP7.6 million (2015: GBP6.2
million).
EBIT growth was achieved in all segments and business
activities, with growth of 21.7% in e-fulfilment and returns
management services. In addition, the Group achieved EBIT growth of
18.9% in non e-fulfilment logistics and 20.4% in commercial
vehicles. Central logistics costs increased by GBP0.3 million,
primarily due to increased investment in the solutions team, whilst
head office costs rose by GBP0.2 million.
Group EBIT (unaudited) Six months to
31 October
2016 2015 Change
----------------------------------- ----------- ----------- -------
E-fulfilment & returns management GBP4.2 GBP3.5
services m m +21.7%
GBP5.9 GBP5.0
Non e-fulfilment logistics m m +18.9%
Central logistics costs GBP(2.6)m GBP(2.3)m
----------------------------------- ----------- ----------- -------
GBP7.5 GBP6.1
Total value-added logistics m m +23.0%
GBP1.3 GBP1.1
Commercial vehicles m m +20.4%
Head office costs GBP(1.2)m GBP(1.0)m
----------------------------------- ----------- ----------- -------
GBP7.6 GBP6.2
Consolidated total m m +23.2%
----------------------------------- ----------- ----------- -------
Net finance costs
Net finance costs were GBP0.8 million (2015: GBP0.7 million).
These costs have increased by 6.1% since the effects of an
increased average net debt position (see below) have been partly
offset by reduced margins on our senior borrowing facilities.
Taxation
The tax charge on profit before tax was GBP1.5 million (2015:
GBP1.2 million). The effective tax rate in the period of 22.0%
(2015: 21.1%) has increased due to a higher proportion of building
infrastructure capital expenditure (which does not qualify for
capital allowances) in the current period than in the prior period
and a slight correction to the tax provision relating to prior
years.
Earnings Per Share (EPS)
EPS was 5.3p in the period (2015: 4.3p) an increase of 23.3% due
to the strong trading performance in all segments and business
areas.
Dividend
An interim dividend for the current year of 2.4 pence per share
was approved by the board on 30 November 2016. The dividend will be
payable on 30 December 2016 to shareholders on the register at the
close of business on 9 December 2016.
Cashflow
Cash generated from operations was GBP12.3 million (2015: GBP7.4
million). Net cash generation from working capital during the
period was GBP2.5 million (2015: GBP(0.7) million), the increase
being partly attributable to increased trade payables in respect of
capital expenditure. We define net cash generated from working
capital as the cash flows generated from changes in: trade and
other receivables of GBP(17.3) million (2015: GBP(11.5) million),
inventories of GBP(10.4) million (2015: GBP(3.5) million) and trade
and other payables of GBP30.2 million (2015: GBP14.3 million), per
the cash flow statement.
The two principal drivers of increase in the working capital
elements are: (i) increased activity levels in the logistics
segment leading to large increases in both trade receivables and
trade payables; and (ii) a change in policy by the commercial
vehicles manufacturer, whereby vehicles which were previously
delivered directly to major fleet customers are now recognised in
the Group's inventories prior to sale. There is a corresponding
increase in trade payables.
Capital expenditure in the period on property, plant and
equipment was GBP15.6 million (2015: GBP7.7 million), compared to a
depreciation and impairment charge of GBP2.0 million (2015: GBP1.6
million). This increase in capital expenditure is predominantly due
to the start-up capital investment required on two contracts; as
usual, the vast majority of this has been incurred with
back-to-back commitments from customers to repay this capital over
the life of the contract through open book mechanisms. GBP7.2
million (2015: GBP4.8 million) of the capital expenditure was
financed on hire purchase or finance lease agreements and GBP1.6
million (2015: GBPnil) was financed by specific bank loans.
With an effective date of 31 October 2016, Clipper entered into
a Joint Venture Agreement with John Lewis. On this date, Clipper
invested GBP1.95 million in the share capital of the Joint Venture
vehicle, Hamsard 3405 Limited, and disposed of: property, plant
& equipment with a net book value of GBP1.0 million; software
with a net book value of GBP0.2 million; other current assets with
a book value of GBP3.5 million; and other current liabilities of
GBP(2.3) million to Hamsard 3405 Limited. On 2 November 2016
Clipper also advanced an interest-bearing loan of GBP1.45 million
to Hamsard 3405 Limited.
Net debt at 31 October 2016 was GBP30.2 million (2015: GBP19.7
million). The increase in net debt compared to the prior year and
since 30 April 2016 (GBP18.8 million) is primarily due to the
significant capital expenditure on two specific projects, explained
above. At 31 October 2016, there are further undrawn bank
facilities of GBP17.1 million committed and available. See note 13
for further detail.
RISK MANAGEMENT
There are a number of risks and uncertainties facing the
business in the second half of the financial year. A risk
management process is used by the Group to identify, monitor and
manage such risks. The principal risks and uncertainties facing the
business are unchanged from those identified in the 2016 Annual
Report. Those risks are outlined below:
-- Reputational impact of any failed project implementations;
-- Failure to develop and retain key people;
-- A loss of focus on operational delivery;
-- A failure to manage health and safety risks;
-- A worsening of a customer relationship may lead to non-renewal of
contracts;
-- A natural or other disaster on any major site;
-- Failure of IT systems or infrastructure;
-- Legal and regulatory risks;
-- Liquidity risk;
-- Credit risk; and
-- Fraud risk.
The Group has in place mitigation strategies to deal with all of
these risks. Further details can be found on pages 31 to 33 in the
2016 Annual Report.
Steve Parkin Tony Mannix David Hodkin
Executive Chairman CEO CFO
1 December 2016 1 December 2016 1 December 2016
CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE 6 MONTHS TO 31 OCTOBER
2016
Interim Group Income Statement (unaudited)
Year ended Note 6 months 6 months
30 April ended 31 ended 31
2016 October October
2016 2015
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
----------- ---------------------------------- ----- ---------- ----------
290,325 Revenue 3 164,922 141,547
(205,742) Cost of Sales (117,238) (100,004)
----------- ---------------------------------- ----- ---------- ----------
84,583 Gross profit 47,684 41,543
263 Other net gains 66 276
(70,315) Administration and other expenses (40,127) (35,632)
----------- ---------------------------------- ----- ---------- ----------
14,531 Operating profit 7,623 6,187
(1,413) Finance costs 5 (765) (722)
4 Finance income 6 2 3
----------- ---------------------------------- ----- ---------- ----------
13,122 Profit before income tax 6,860 5,468
(2,786) Income tax expense 7 (1,511) (1,152)
10,336 Profit for the financial period 5,349 4,316
----------- ---------------------------------- ----- ---------- ----------
10.3p Basic earnings per share 8 5.3p 4.3p
10.3p Diluted earnings per share 8 5.3p 4.3p
----------- ---------------------------------- ----- ---------- ----------
Interim Group Statement of Comprehensive Income (unaudited)
Year ended Note 6 months 6 months
30 April ended 31 ended 31
2016 October October
2016 2015
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
----------- ------------------------------------------ ----- ---------- ----------
10,336 Profit for the financial period 5,349 4,316
Other comprehensive income (expense)
for the period, net of tax:
To be classified to the income statement
in subsequent periods:
Exchange differences on retranslation
(6) of foreign operations (121) (1)
----------- ------------------------------------------ ----- ---------- ----------
Total comprehensive income for the
period attributable to equity holders
10,330 of the parent company 5,228 4,315
----------- ------------------------------------------ ----- ---------- ----------
Interim Group Statement of Financial Position (unaudited)
30 April Note 31 October 31 October
2016 2016 2015
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
---------- ---------------------------------- ----- ----------- -----------
ASSETS
Non-current assets
25,564 Property, plant and equipment 10 38,346 20,679
- Investments 11 1,950 -
---------- ---------------------------------- ----- ----------- -----------
23,252 Goodwill 23,252 23,252
1,646 Other intangible assets 1,499 1,584
- Deferred tax assets 50 -
---------- ---------------------------------- ----- ----------- -----------
24,898 Intangible assets 24,801 24,836
---------- ---------------------------------- ----- ----------- -----------
50,462 Total non-current assets 65,097 45,515
---------- ---------------------------------- ----- ----------- -----------
Current assets
26,252 Inventories 37,254 25,590
39,816 Trade and other receivables 57,508 44,966
36 Current tax assets - -
715 Cash and cash equivalents 12 1,470 2,685
---------- ---------------------------------- ----- ----------- -----------
66,819 Total current assets 96,232 73,241
---------- ---------------------------------- ----- ----------- -----------
117,281 TOTAL ASSETS 161,329 118,756
---------- ---------------------------------- ----- ----------- -----------
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities
72,183 Trade and other payables 102,378 75,309
6,553 Financial liabilities: Borrowings 13 6,734 9,430
10 Derivative financial instruments 14 - 34
109 Short term provisions 119 113
1,747 Current income tax liabilities 1,793 1,219
---------- ---------------------------------- ----- ----------- -----------
80,602 Total current liabilities 111,024 86,105
---------- ---------------------------------- ----- ----------- -----------
Non-current liabilities
12,931 Borrowings 13 24,914 12,969
769 Long term provisions 819 740
202 Deferred tax liabilities - 507
---------- ---------------------------------- ----- ----------- -----------
13,902 Total non-current liabilities 25,733 14,216
---------- ---------------------------------- ----- ----------- -----------
94,504 TOTAL LIABILITIES 136,757 100,321
---------- ---------------------------------- ----- ----------- -----------
Equity shareholders' funds
50 Share capital 50 50
56 Share premium 68 48
24 Currency translation reserve (97) 30
84 Other reserve 84 84
6,006 Merger reserve 6,006 6,006
783 Share based payment reserve 1,338 464
15,774 Retained earnings 17,123 11,753
---------- ---------------------------------- ----- ----------- -----------
22,777 TOTAL EQUITY 24,572 18,435
---------- ---------------------------------- ----- ----------- -----------
117,281 TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 161,329 118,756
---------- ---------------------------------- ----- ----------- -----------
Interim Group Statement of Changes in Equity (unaudited)
Share
Currency based
Share Share Other translation Merger payment Retained Total
capital premium reserve reserve reserve reserve earnings equity
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
----------------------- --------- --------- --------- ------------- --------- --------- ---------- --------
Balance at 1 May
2015 50 48 84 31 6,006 139 10,637 16,995
Profit for the
period - - - - - - 4,316 4,316
Other comprehensive
income - - - (1) - - - (1)
Equity settled
transactions - - - - - 325 - 325
Dividends - - - - - - (3,200) (3,200)
----------------------- --------- --------- --------- ------------- --------- --------- ---------- --------
Balance at 31 October
2015 50 48 84 30 6,006 464 11,753 18,435
----------------------- --------- --------- --------- ------------- --------- --------- ---------- --------
Profit for the
period - - - - - - 6,020 6,020
Other comprehensive
income - - - (6) - - 1 (5)
Equity settled
transactions - - - - - 319 - 319
Share issue - 8 - - - - - 8
Dividends - - - - - - (2,000) (2,000)
----------------------- --------- --------- --------- ------------- --------- --------- ---------- --------
Balance at 30 April
2016 50 56 84 24 6,006 783 15,774 22,777
----------------------- --------- --------- --------- ------------- --------- --------- ---------- --------
Profit for the
period - - - - - - 5,349 5,349
Other comprehensive
income - - - (121) - - - (121)
Equity settled
transactions - - - - - 555 - 555
Share issue - 12 - - - - - 12
Dividends - - - - - - (4,000) (4,000)
----------------------- --------- --------- --------- ------------- --------- --------- ---------- --------
Balance at 31 October
2016 50 68 84 (97) 6,006 1,338 17,123 24,572
----------------------- --------- --------- --------- ------------- --------- --------- ---------- --------
Interim Group Statement of Cash Flows (unaudited)
Year ended Note 6 months 6 months
30 April ended 31 ended 31
2016 October October
2016 2015
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
----------- -------------------------------------------- ----- ---------- ----------
13,122 Profit before tax from operating activities 6,860 5,468
Adjustments to reconcile profit before
tax to net cash flows:
Depreciation and impairment of property,
4,580 plant and equipment 1,977 1,572
Amortisation and impairment of intangible
466 assets 293 215
Gain on disposal of property, plant
(37) and equipment (18) (18)
(82) Exchange differences (447) 1
5,
1,409 Net finance costs 6 763 719
Movement in fair value of derivative
(60) financial instruments (10) (36)
(1) Amortisation of grants - -
454 Share based payments charge 15 421 206
Working capital adjustments
(Increase) / decrease in trade and
(6,372) other receivables (17,307) (11,522)
(3,677) (Increase) / decrease in inventories (10,380) (3,484)
Increase / (decrease) in trade and
10,694 other payables 30,181 14,265
----------- -------------------------------------------- ----- ---------- ----------
20,496 Cash generated from operations 12,333 7,386
4 Interest received 2 3
(1,362) Interest paid (644) (688)
(2,063) Income tax paid (1,541) (681)
----------- -------------------------------------------- ----- ---------- ----------
17,075 Net cash flows from operating activities 10,150 6,020
----------- -------------------------------------------- ----- ---------- ----------
Investing activities
(5,383) Purchase of property, plant and equipment 10 (6,782) (2,553)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant
238 and equipment 1,319 100
(546) Purchase of intangible assets (305) (231)
- Proceeds from sale of intangible assets 166 -
- Investment in joint venture 11 (1,950) -
- Loan advance to joint venture 11 (385) -
Acquisition of subsidiary undertaking
(2,212) net of cash acquired - (1,000)
----------- -------------------------------------------- ----- ---------- ----------
(7,903) Net cash flows from investing activities (7,937) (3,684)
----------- -------------------------------------------- ----- ---------- ----------
Financing activities
942 New bank loans - 62
(232) Debt issue costs paid - -
5,500 Net drawdown of revolving credit facility 5,000 4,000
207 Finance leases advanced 2,107 426
(10,141) Repayment of bank loans (109) (1,314)
8 Shares issued 12 -
(5,200) Dividends paid 9 (4,000) (3,200)
(3,212) Repayment of capital on finance leases (2,718) (1,479)
----------- -------------------------------------------- ----- ---------- ----------
(12,128) Net cash flows from financing activities 292 (1,505)
----------- -------------------------------------------- ----- ---------- ----------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and
(2,956) cash equivalents 2,505 831
----------- -------------------------------------------- ----- ---------- ----------
Cash and cash equivalents at start
1,854 of period (1,102) 1,854
----------- -------------------------------------------- ----- ---------- ----------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of
(1,102) period 1,403 2,685
----------- -------------------------------------------- ----- ---------- ----------
Notes to the Interim Financial Statements
1. Accounting policies
Basis of preparation
Clipper Logistics plc ('the Company') is a public limited
company incorporated and domiciled in the United Kingdom. The
condensed interim financial statements have been prepared in
accordance with the Disclosure and Transparency rules of the
Financial Conduct Authority ("FCA") and where applicable IAS 34
"Interim Financial Reporting (as adopted by the EU)".
As required by the Disclosure and Transparency rules of the FCA,
the condensed interim financial statements have been prepared
applying the accounting policies and presentation that were applied
in the preparation of the Company's published consolidated
financial statements for the year ended 30 April 2016. These
statements do not include all the information required for full
annual financial statements and should be read in conjunction with
the full annual report for the year ended 30 April 2016. The
financial information for the half year ended 31 October 2016 and
for the equivalent period in 2015 has not been audited or
reviewed.
The information for the year ended 30 April 2016 does not
constitute statutory accounts as defined in section 435 of the
Companies Act 2006. A copy of the statutory accounts for that year
has been delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The auditors
reported on those accounts: their report was unqualified, did not
draw attention to any matters by way of emphasis and did not
contain a statement under section 498 (2) or (3) of the Companies
Act 2006.
The financial statements are prepared on the going concern
basis.
Going concern
The Group's business activities, together with the factors
likely to affect its future development, performance and position
are set out in the Business Review. The financial position of the
Group, its cash flows, liquidity position and borrowing facilities
are described above. The Group has considerable financial resources
together with strong trading relationships with its key customers
and suppliers. As a consequence, the Directors believe that the
Group is well placed to manage its business risk successfully.
After making enquiries, the Directors have a reasonable
expectation that the Group has adequate resources to continue in
operational existence for the foreseeable future. For this reason,
they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the
condensed consolidated interim financial statements.
New standards and interpretations
The following accounting standards and interpretations became
effective, and were adopted by the Group, for the current reporting
period:
International Accounting Standards (IAS / IFRSs) Effective Date
Accounting for Acquisitions of Interests in Joint 1 January 2016
Operations - Amendments to IFRS 11
Clarification of Acceptable Methods of Depreciation 1 January 2016
and Amortisation - Amendments to IAS 16 and IAS
38
Equity Method in Separate Financial Statements 1 January 2016
- Amendments to IAS 27
Annual Improvements to IFRSs - 2012-2014 Cycle 1 January 2016
Disclosure Initiative - Amendments to IAS 1 1 January 2016
The application of these standards has not had a material effect
on the net assets, results and disclosures of the Group.
The Group has not early adopted any other standard,
interpretation or amendment that has been issued but is not yet
effective.
2. Financial risks, estimates, assumptions and judgements
The preparation of the condensed interim financial information
requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions
that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of
assets and liabilities, income and expenses. The estimates and
associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other
factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances,
the results of which form the basis of making the judgements about
carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily
apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these
estimates.
In preparing these condensed interim financial statements, the
significant judgements made by management in applying the Group's
accounting policies and the key sources of estimation uncertainty
were the same as those that applied to the consolidated financial
statements for the year ended 30 April 2016.
3. Revenue
Revenue recognised in the income statement is analysed as
follows:
6 months 6 months
Year ended ended 31 ended 31
30 April October October
2016 2016 2015
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
----------- ------------------------------------------- ---------- ----------
97,598 E-fulfilment & returns management services 58,924 42,630
108,390 Non e-fulfilment logistics 61,301 55,888
----------- ------------------------------------------- ---------- ----------
205,988 Value-added logistics services 120,225 98,518
85,642 Commercial vehicles 45,627 43,706
(1,305) Inter-segment sales (930) (677)
----------- ------------------------------------------- ---------- ----------
290,325 Revenue from external customers 164,922 141,547
----------- ------------------------------------------- ---------- ----------
4. Segment information
For management purposes, the Group is organised into two main
reportable segments:
-- Value-added logistics services
-- Commercial vehicles, including sales, servicing and repairs
Within value-added logistics, the Chief Operating Decision Maker
also reviews performance of three separate business activities:
-- E-fulfilment & returns management services
-- Non e-fulfilment logistics
-- Central logistics overheads, being the costs of support
services specific to the Value-added logistics segment, but which
are impractical to allocate between the sub-segment activities
Inter-segment transactions are entered into under normal
commercial terms and conditions and on an arm's length basis that
would also be available to unrelated third parties.
The following table presents profit information for continuing
operations regarding the Group's business segments:
6 months 6 months
Year ended ended 31 ended 31
30 April October October
2016 2016 2015
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
----------- ------------------------------------------- ---------- ----------
Operating profit
8,135 E-fulfilment & returns management services 4,239 3,484
10,711 Non e-fulfilment logistics 5,890 4,953
(4,718) Central logistics (2,594) (2,310)
----------- ------------------------------------------- ---------- ----------
14,128 Value-added logistics services 7,535 6,127
2,263 Commercial vehicles 1,270 1,055
(1,860) Head office costs (1,182) (995)
----------- ------------------------------------------- ---------- ----------
14,531 Group total 7,623 6,187
(1,413) Finance costs (765) (722)
4 Finance income 2 3
----------- ------------------------------------------- ---------- ----------
13,122 Profit before income tax 6,860 5,468
----------- ------------------------------------------- ---------- ----------
5. Finance costs
6 months 6 months
Year ended ended 31 ended 31
30 April October October
2016 2016 2015
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
----------- ---------------------------------------- ---------- -----------
533 On bank loans and overdrafts 209 319
394 On hire purchase agreements 321 167
78 Amortisation of debt issue costs 49 36
370 Commercial vehicle stocking interest 153 179
38 Other interest payable 33 21
Total interest expense for financial
1,413 liabilities measured at amortised cost 765 722
----------- ---------------------------------------- ---------- -----------
6. Finance income
6 months 6 months
Year ended ended 31 ended 31
30 April October October
2016 2016 2015
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
----------- ------------------------------------------- ---------- -----------
3 Bank interest - 2
1 Other interest 2 1
Total interest income for financial assets
4 measured at amortised cost 2 3
----------- ------------------------------------------- ---------- -----------
7. Taxation
Tax has been provided on the profit before taxation, at the
estimated effective rate for the full year of 22.0% (Year ended 30
April 2016: 21.2%).
8. Earnings per share
Basic earnings per share amounts are calculated by dividing
profit for the year attributable to ordinary equity holders of the
Company by the weighted average number of ordinary shares
outstanding during the year. Diluted earnings per share amounts are
calculated by dividing the profit attributable to ordinary equity
holders of the Company by the weighted average number of shares
outstanding during the year plus the weighted average number of
ordinary shares that would be issued on conversion of all the
potentially dilutive instruments into ordinary shares.
The following reflects the income and share data used in the
basic earnings per share computation:
6 months 6 months
Year ended ended 31 ended 31
30 April October October
2016 2016 2015
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
----------- ------------------------------------------ ---------- ----------
Profit attributable to ordinary equity
10,336 holders of the parent company 5,349 4,316
Thousands Thousands Thousands
100,000 Basic weighted average number of shares 100,007 100,000
----------- ------------------------------------------ ---------- ----------
10.3p Basic earnings per share 5.3p 4.3p
----------- ------------------------------------------ ---------- ----------
100,823 Diluted weighted average number of shares 100,869 100,545
----------- ------------------------------------------ ---------- ----------
10.3p Diluted earnings per share 5.3p 4.3p
----------- ------------------------------------------ ---------- ----------
9. Dividends
6 months 6 months
Year ended ended 31 ended 31
30 April October October
2016 2016 2015
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
----------- --------------------------------------- ---------- ----------
Final dividend for the year ended 30
3,200 April 2015 of 3.2p per share - 3,200
Interim dividend for the year ended 30
2,000 April 2016 of 2.0p per share - -
Final dividend for the year ended 30
- April 2016 of 4.0p per share 4,000 -
5,200 Total dividends paid 4,000 3,200
----------- --------------------------------------- ---------- ----------
An interim dividend for the current year of GBP2,400,000 at 2.4p
per share was approved by the board on 30 November 2016. The
dividend will be payable on 30 December 2016 to shareholders on the
register at the close of business on 9 December 2016.
10. Property, plant and equipment
During the six months ended 31 October 2016, the Group acquired
assets with a cost of GBP15,643,000 (six months ended 31 October
2015: GBP7,720,000). Of the assets acquired, GBP7,244,000 (2015:
GBP4,816,000) was funded by hire purchase or finance lease
arrangements in the period and GBP1,617,000 (2015: GBPnil) was
funded by bank loans secured on the specific assets. Included in
the additions during the period are assets in the course of
construction amounting to GBP9,309,000, the majority of which will
be funded by finance lease arrangements when complete.
11. Investments in Joint Ventures
With effect from 31 October 2016, the Company invested
GBP1,950,000 in subscribing for 50% of the issued capital and
voting rights of Hamsard 3405 Limited ("Hamsard"), a company
incorporated in Great Britain and registered in England and Wales.
Hamsard will provide Click and Collect logistics services to
retailers throughout the UK. Also with effect from 31 October 2016,
Hamsard purchased property, plant and equipment with a net book
value of GBP1,006,000, software with a net book value of GBP166,000
and other current assets with a book value of GBP3,497,000 from the
Company for consideration of GBP4,669,000. Included within trade
and other receivables at 31 October 2016 is an amount of GBP385,000
owed by Hamsard. On 2 November 2016 the Company advanced a loan to
Hamsard of GBP1,450,000 on commercial terms which included
settlement of all amounts previously owing by Hamsard.
12. Cash and cash equivalents
30 April 31 October 31 October
2016 2016 2015
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
--------- -------------------------------- ----------- ------------
715 Cash and cash equivalents 1,470 2,685
(1,817) Bank overdraft (67) -
--------- -------------------------------- ----------- ------------
(1,102) Total cash and cash equivalents 1,403 2,685
--------- -------------------------------- ----------- ------------
13. Financial liabilities - Borrowings
30 April 31 October 31 October
2016 2016 2015
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
--------- ----------------------------------------- ----------- ------------
Non current:
74 Bank loans 1,029 6,352
5,500 Revolving credit advances 10,500 4,000
Obligations under finance leases or hire
7,818 purchase agreements 13,797 2,887
(461) Unamortised debt issue costs (412) (270)
--------- ----------------------------------------- ----------- ------------
12,931 24,914 12,969
--------- ----------------------------------------- ----------- ------------
Current:
1,817 Bank overdrafts 67 -
944 Bank loans 1,511 2,596
Obligations under finance leases or hire
3,792 purchase agreements 5,156 6,834
--------- ----------------------------------------- ----------- ------------
6,553 6,734 9,430
--------- ----------------------------------------- ----------- ------------
19,484 Total borrowings 31,648 22,399
715 Less: cash and cash equivalents 1,470 2,685
--------- ----------------------------------------- ----------- ------------
18,769 Net debt 30,178 19,714
--------- ----------------------------------------- ----------- ------------
Included within current borrowings is GBP1,180,000 (2015:
GBP4,289,000) of pre-inception funding on capital projects that
were not complete at 31 October. This funding will be scheduled
over five years upon inception of the relevant finance leases.
The principal lender has security over all assets of the Group's
UK operations.
The Group's obligations under finance leases or hire purchase
agreements are secured by the lender's charge over the relevant
assets.
The maturity analysis of the bank loans and revolving credit
advances is as follows:
30 April 31 October 31 October
2016 2016 2015
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
--------- ----------------------------- ----------- ------------
944 In one year or less 1,511 2,596
5,574 Between one and five years 11,529 10,352
- After five years - -
(461) Unamortised debt issue costs (412) (270)
--------- ----------------------------- ----------- ------------
6,057 12,628 12,678
--------- ----------------------------- ----------- ------------
The Group's bank facilities were increased and rescheduled in
January 2016. The Group has access to a committed overdraft of
GBP8,000,000 and a non-amortising revolving credit facility of
GBP19,744,000 repayable in January 2021. At 31 October 2016,
GBP10,500,000 of the revolving credit facility was drawn.
14. Financial instruments
Derivative financial instruments
As part of the novation of bank facilities previously held by
the Group's former parent, the Company took on an interest rate
swap, the principal of which amortised quarterly to October 2016.
The financial liability was categorised as being at fair value
through profit or loss.
Fair value of financial instruments
The book value of trade and other receivables, trade and other
payables, cash and cash equivalents, derivative financial
instruments & current borrowings equates to fair value.
The table below sets out the book value and fair value of the
Group's other financial assets and liabilities:
30 April 31 October 31 October
2016 2016 2015
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
--------- ------------------------ ----------- ------------
Non-current borrowings:
12,931 Book value 24,914 12,969
12,588 Fair value 24,280 12,891
--------- ------------------------ ----------- ------------
The main methods and assumptions used in estimating the fair
values of financial instruments are as follows:
- Derivatives: interest rate swaps are marked to market using listed market prices;
- Interest-bearing loans and borrowings: fair value is
calculated based on discounted expected future principal and
interest flows; and
- Trade and other receivables / payables: the notional amount
for trade receivables / payables with a remaining life of less than
one year is deemed to reflect their fair value.
Long term borrowings are classified as Level 2 (items with
significant observable inputs) financial liabilities under IFRS 13.
Derivative financial instruments consist of interest rate swaps and
are also classified as Level 2. There have been no transfers
between Level 1 and Level 2 financial instruments during the
period.
15. Share based payments
There have been no options granted in the six months ended 31
October 2016. Details of grants in prior periods are set out in the
2016 Annual Report. During the six months ended 31 October 2016 the
Company issued 8,724 ordinary shares at a price of 140.4p per share
to satisfy share options. No options were exercisable at 31 October
2016 or 31 October 2015.
The charge for share based payments in the six months ended 31
October 2016 is GBP421,000 (2015: GBP206,000).
The increase in deferred tax asset during the period in relation
to share based payments amounted to GBP134,000, which has been
recognised in the share based payment reserve.
16. Related party disclosures
Directors' remuneration and other related party transactions are
in line with the disclosures set out in the 2016 Annual Report.
DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT IN RESPECT OF THE CONDENSED
INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Directors confirm that to the best of our knowledge:
-- This condensed set of financial statements for the six months
ended 31 October 2016 and for the equivalent period in 2015 has
been prepared on the basis of the accounting policies set out in
the 2016 Annual Report and in accordance with IAS 34 Interim
Financial Reporting as adopted by the European Union.
-- the interim management report includes a fair review of the information required by:
o paragraph DTR 4.2.7R of the Disclosure Guidance and
Transparency Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority, being an
indication of important events that have occurred during the first
six months of the current 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 financial year; and
o paragraph DTR 4.2.8R of the Disclosure Guidance and
Transparency Rules, being related party transactions that have
taken place in the first six months of the financial year and that
have materially affected the financial position or performance of
the Group during that period, or any changes in the related party
transactions described in the last annual report that could do
so.
The Directors of Clipper Logistics plc are listed in the 2016
Annual Report.
This report was approved by the Board on 30 November 2016 and is
available on the Company's website www.clippergroup.co.uk under
"Investor News" then "Results and Presentations".
By order of the Board
Steve Parkin Tony Mannix David Hodkin
Executive Chairman CEO CFO
1 December 2016 1 December 2016 1 December 2016
This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
END
IR DBLFXQFFZFBZ
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