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AIEA Airea Plc

33.50
0.00 (0.00%)
18 Apr 2024 - Closed
Delayed by 15 minutes
Share Name Share Symbol Market Type Share ISIN Share Description
Airea Plc LSE:AIEA London Ordinary Share GB0008123027 ORD 25P
  Price Change % Change Share Price Bid Price Offer Price High Price Low Price Open Price Shares Traded Last Trade
  0.00 0.00% 33.50 32.00 35.00 33.50 33.50 33.50 15,000 01:00:00
Industry Sector Turnover Profit EPS - Basic PE Ratio Market Cap
Misc Homefurnishings Stores 18.76M 1.3M 0.0313 10.70 13.85M

Airea PLC Final Results (2505J)

08/09/2016 7:00am

UK Regulatory


Airea (LSE:AIEA)
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TIDMAIEA

RNS Number : 2505J

Airea PLC

08 September 2016

AIREA plc

Preliminary results for the year ended 30th June 2016

Strategic Report

Airea plc is pleased to be able to report that the business has made substantial progress in the year:

   --     Operating profit up 86% to GBP2.0m 
   --     Basic earnings per share up 133% to 3.01p 
   --     EBITDA(1) before exceptional items up 48% to GBP2.8m 
   --     Proposed final dividend up 67% to 1.5p 

Principal activity and strategy

The group remains focused on the manufacture, marketing and distribution of floor coverings. Our approach to strategy is uncomplicated; to develop products that sell, exploit the strength of our combined manufacturing and distribution operation, and deliver robust cash flows.

Overview

Airea plc is pleased to report an 86% increase in operating profit following an improvement in UK contract sales and operating margins and despite the adverse impact on international sales of the strength of sterling against the Euro during the period.

As reported in the interim announcement, the second half also benefited from a reduced cost base following the consolidation of operations onto two existing sites occupied by the business at Ossett and Wakefield. One of the properties came to the end of the lease period and has been vacated. The other freehold property remains in our ownership and has been leased to a third party. This brings to fruition a process whereby the property footprint has progressively reduced over the last four years, cutting the number of sites occupied from six to two. The move not only delivers considerable cost savings, but enhances our operational capability, reducing lead times and thereby improving customer service.

The exceptional one off costs incurred as a consequence of site reorganisation i.e. rationalisation of finished inventories, redundancy payments to staff who were not able to transfer, and the relocation of equipment and inventory have been highlighted in the income statement.

Despite the deterioration in the financial climate, we were able to reduce the pension deficit by completing a Pension Increase Exchange exercise. The initiative allowed pensioners to opt for an income stream more aligned to their personal circumstances and preferences, whilst at the same time reducing the cost of past service benefits to the scheme. The gain to profit is highlighted as exceptional in the income statement. In addition, the pension scheme investment strategy is constantly under review, and our liability hedging strategy and increased diversification have performed well.

As in previous years the cost base remains under constant review and operating margin increased in the year.

A further repurchase of shares was completed in the period, funded from cash flow generated in the year, and contributed to the improvement in earnings per share. Cash generation increased and the group continues to operate debt free.

Group results

Revenue for the period was GBP24.6m (2015 GBP25.5m) as the strength of sterling against the Euro had an adverse impact on our sales into continental Europe, especially in the first half of the financial year the GBP/Euro exchange rate at 1.40-1.44 for long periods had a detrimental effect on sales in highly competitive, price sensitive markets. Operating profit before exceptional items was GBP2,013,000 (2015: GBP1,212,000), due to improved operating margin, and the lower cost base, largely resulting from the site consolidation in the second half. The exceptional charge of GBP1.3m relates to the costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations, and the exceptional income of GBP1.3m related to the Pension Increase Exchange. The operating profit after exceptional items was GBP2,042,000 (2015: GBP1,098,000). Other finance costs relating to the defined benefit pension scheme increased to GBP651,000 (2015: GBP447,000) as a result of changes in the Pension Protection Fund Levy. After charging tax of GBP114,000 (2015 GBP69,000), the profit for the year was GBP1,277,000 (2015: GBP581,000).

Basic earnings per share were 3.01p (2015: 1.29p), and basic adjusted earnings per share(2) were 2.96p (2015: 1.50p).

Operating cash flows before exceptional items, movements in working capital and other payables were GBP2,844,000 (2015: GBP1,928,000). After taking account of exceptional items of GBP803,000 (2015: nil) operating cash flows before movements in working capital and other payables were GBP2,041,000 (2015: GBP1,928,000). Working capital decreased by GBP1,009,000 (2015: increase GBP490,000) due to a reduction in inventories. Contributions of GBP400,000 (2015: GBP400,000) were made to the defined benefit pension scheme in line with the agreement reached with the trustees based on the 2014 actuarial valuation. Capital expenditure of GBP704,000 (2015: GBP459,000) remained focussed on supporting new product launches and the ongoing improvement in the flexibility, reliability and productivity of the manufacturing process. A repurchase of 2,050,000 ordinary shares was completed at a cost of GBP410,000.

The reduction of the pension deficit to GBP6.7m (2015 GBP7.4m) stemmed from the net effect of the Pension Increase Exchange exercise, the deterioration in corporate bond yields and the bigger Pension Protection Fund Levy, which diverts company contributions from funding the pension plan.

Key performance indicators

As part of its internal financial control procedures the board monitors certain financial ratios. For the year to 30th June 2016 value added per employee (the ratio of sales less material costs to average employee numbers) amounted to GBP70,000 (2015: GBP70,000), operating return on sales (the ratio of operating profit before exceptional items to revenue) was 8.2% (2015: 4.7%), return on average net operating assets (the ratio of operating profit before exceptional items to average operating assets) was 11.0% (2015: 7.1%) and working capital to sales percentage was 34.3% (2015: 38.2%). The improvement in the ratios demonstrates the reduction in the cost base and the improvement in working capital efficiency.

Principal risks and uncertainties

The board has responsibility for determining the nature and extent of the significant risks it is willing to take in achieving its strategic objectives, and ensuring that risks are managed effectively across the group. Risks are identified as being principally based on the likelihood of occurrence and potential impact on the group. The group's principal risks are identified below, together with a description of how the group mitigates those risks.

The key operational risk facing the business continues to be the competitive nature of the markets for the group's products. To mitigate this risk the group seeks to improve existing products, introduce new products and achieve high levels of customer service and efficiency.

The majority of the group's revenue arises from trade with flooring contractors and independent retailers. The activity levels within this customer base are determined by consumer demand created through a wide range of commercial refurbishment and building projects and activity in the housing market. The general level of activity in these underlying markets has the potential to affect the demand for products supplied by the group. The group mitigates these factors by closely monitoring sales trends and taking appropriate action early, along with strengthening the product range and developing new channels to market, both at home and abroad, to grow demand across a wider range of markets.

The group operates a defined benefit pension scheme. At present, in aggregate, there is an actuarial deficit between the value of the projected liabilities of this scheme and the assets they hold. The amount of the deficit may be adversely affected by changes in a number of factors, including investment returns, long-term interest rate and price inflation expectations, and anticipated members' longevity. Further increases in pension scheme deficit may require the group to increase the amount of cash contributions payable to the scheme, thereby reducing cash available to meet the group's other operating, investing and financing requirements. Following the triennial funding valuation of the group's pension scheme in 2014, a revised deficit recovery plan was agreed. The performance of the group's pension scheme and deficit recovery plan are regularly reviewed by both the group and the trustees of the scheme, taking actuarial and investment advice as appropriate. The results of these reviews are discussed with the board and appropriate action taken.

Other risks

Raw material costs are a significant constituent of overall product cost, and are impacted by global commodity markets. Significant fluctuations in raw material costs can have a material impact on profitability. The group continuously seeks out opportunities to develop a robust and competitive supply base, substitute new materials and closely monitors selling prices and margins.

The global nature of the group's business means it is exposed to volatility in currency exchange rates in respect of foreign currency denominated transactions, the most significant being the euro. In order to protect itself against currency fluctuations the group has taken advantage of the opportunity to naturally hedge euro revenue with euro payments. This is done in combination with foreign currency bank accounts and forward exchange contracts. No transactions of a speculative nature are undertaken.

Other risks include the availability of necessary materials, business interruption and the duty of care to our employees, customers and the wider public. These risks are managed through the combination of quality assurance and health and safety procedures, and insurance cover.

Management and personnel

The improvement in the financial performance of the business is testament to the flexibility, hard work and outstanding commitment of our staff, we once again thank everyone in the business for their contribution.

Current trading and future prospects

After a number of years of strengthening sterling, we are now enjoying a more competitive exchange rate, which offers potential opportunities to restore growth in our export business, and improve our competitive position against international competition in the home market. Marginal pricing is however common in many of the markets we serve and it is highly unlikely that our competition will change pricing habits completely despite the additional pressure from currency. Of most concern is the threat of depressed market activity within the construction sector generally which has the potential to overwhelm any price and cost advantages we may enjoy.

As ever our plans do not assume any help from the market and whilst the board notes the uncertainty arising from the political and economic changes currently taking place, our focus is on exploiting the expanding opportunities that arise from the repositioning of the business over recent years.

The site consolidation is now almost complete although we are reviewing our position concerning one of our remaining lease properties, and is delivering cost savings and operational improvements significantly ahead of expectations.

New strategic investment in manufacturing technology provides the spring board for extending the product range to new market sectors, and this combined with a lower cost base gives us real cause for optimism for dealing with growing economic uncertainty.

We believe the Group is well positioned for growth .

Given our confidence in the future prospects of the business, the ongoing improvement in the performance of the business, and a robust cash flow, we are once again able to support the progressive dividend policy. If approved, a final dividend of 1.5p per share will be paid on 24th November 2016 to shareholders on the register at close of business on 28th October 2016. The ex dividend date is 27(th) October 2016.

(1) EBITDA, is earnings before depreciation, interest, taxation and amortisation

(2) Adjusted earnings are earnings adjusted for exceptional operating items (net of tax)

Enquiries:

Neil Rylance 01924 266561

Chief Executive Officer

Roger Salt 01924 266561

Group Finance Director

Richard Lindley 020 7496 3000

N+1 Singer

This announcement contains inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of EU Regulation 596/2014.

The financial information set out in the announcement does not constitute the group's statutory accounts for the years ended 30 June 2016 or 30 June 2015. The financial information for the year ended 30 June 2015 is derived from the statutory accounts for that year which have been delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The auditors reported on those accounts; their report was unqualified and did not include any statement under s498(2) or s498(3) of the Companies Act 2006. The consolidated balance sheet at 30 June 2016, the consolidated income statement, the consolidated statement of comprehensive income, the consolidated cash flow statement and the consolidated statement of changes in equity for the year then ended have been extracted from the Group's 2016 statutory financial statements upon which the auditor's opinion is unqualified and does not include any statement under s498(2) or s498(3) of the Companies Act 2006.

The announcement has been agreed with the company's auditor for release.

 
 Audited Consolidated Income 
  Statement 
 Year ended 30th June 2016 
 
                                                      2016       2015 
 
                                                    GBP000     GBP000 
 
 Revenue                                            24,577     25,538 
 Operating costs                                  (22,535)   (24,440) 
--------------------------------------  -------  ---------  --------- 
 Operating profit before exceptional 
  items                                              2,013      1,212 
 Exceptional costs                                 (1,271)      (114) 
 Pension credit                                      1,300          - 
-------------------------------------   -------  ---------  --------- 
 Operating profit                                    2,042      1,098 
                                                 ---------  --------- 
 Finance income                                          -          1 
 Finance costs                                       (651)      (449) 
                                                 ---------  --------- 
 Profit before taxation                              1,391        650 
 Taxation                                            (114)       (69) 
                                                 ---------  --------- 
 Profit attributable to the 
  shareholders of the group                          1,277        581 
                                                 =========  ========= 
 Earnings per share (basic                            3.01       1.29 
  and diluted)                                           p          p 
 
 All amounts relate to continuing 
  operations 
 
 
 Audited Consolidated Statement 
  of Comprehensive Income 
 Year ended 30th June 2016 
                                               2016                 2015 
                                         GBP000     GBP000     GBP000    GBP000 
 
 Profit attributable to shareholders 
  of the group                                       1,277                  581 
                                                 ---------             -------- 
 Actuarial loss recognised 
  in the pension scheme                   (291)               (1,635) 
 Related deferred taxation                 (83)                   267 
                                                            --------- 
                                                     (374)              (1,368) 
 Unrealised valuation gain                3,009                     - 
 Related deferred taxation                (240)                     - 
                                        -------             --------- 
                                                     2,769                    - 
                                                 ---------             -------- 
 Total other comprehensive 
  income                                             2,395              (1,368) 
                                                 ---------             -------- 
 Total comprehensive income 
  attributable to the shareholders 
  of the group                                     3,672                  (787) 
                                                 =========             ======== 
 
 

All items will not be reclassified as profit and loss.

 
 Audited Consolidated Balance 
  Sheet 
 as at 30th June 2016 
                                          2016                 2015 
                                    GBP000     GBP000    GBP000     GBP000 
 Non-current assets 
 Property, plant and equipment                  5,489                5,333 
 Investment property                            2,701                    - 
 Deferred tax asset                             1,264                1,557 
                                                                 --------- 
                                                9,454                6,890 
 Current assets 
 Inventories                         9,338               10,647 
 Trade and other receivables         4,601                4,412 
 Cash and cash equivalents           3,114                1,883 
                                  --------             -------- 
                                               17,053               16,942 
                                                                 --------- 
 Total assets                                  26,507               23,832 
                                            ---------            --------- 
 Current liabilities 
 Trade and other payables          (5,505)              (5,308) 
 Provisions                          (125)                    - 
                                  --------             -------- 
                                              (5,630)              (5,308) 
 
 Non-current liabilities 
 Pension deficit                   (6,685)              (7,443) 
 Deferred tax                        (241)                  (1) 
                                  --------             -------- 
                                              (6,926)              (7,444) 
                                            ---------            --------- 
 Total liabilities                           (12,556)             (12,752) 
                                                                 --------- 
                                               13,951               11,080 
                                            =========            ========= 
 Equity 
 Called up share capital                       10,339               10,851 
 Share premium account                            504                  504 
 Capital redemption reserve                     3,617                3,105 
 Revaluation reserve                            3,009                    - 
 Retained earnings                            (3,518)              (3,380) 
                                                                 --------- 
                                               13,951               11,080 
                                            =========            ========= 
 
 
 Audited Consolidated Cash 
  Flow Statement 
 Year ended 30th June 2016 
                                         2016      2015 
                                        GBP000    GBP000 
 
 Cash flow from operating 
  activities 
 Profit for the year                      1,277      581 
 Tax charged                                114       69 
 Finance costs                              651      448 
 Depreciation                               837      830 
 Profit on disposal of property, 
  plant and equipment                       (6)        - 
 Pension credit                         (1,300)        - 
 Inventory Impairment                       468        - 
                                       --------  ------- 
 Operating cash flows before 
  movements in working capital            2,041    1,928 
 Decrease/(increase) in inventories         841    (427) 
 Increase in trade and other 
  receivables                             (189)     (99) 
 Increase in trade and other 
  payables                                  232      151 
 Increase/(decrease) in provisions 
  for liabilities and charges               125    (115) 
                                       --------  ------- 
 Cash generated from operations           3,050    1,438 
 Income tax received                         61        - 
 Contributions to defined 
  benefit pension scheme                  (400)    (400) 
                                       --------  ------- 
 Net cash generated from operations       2,711    1,038 
 
 Investing activities 
 Purchase of property, plant 
  and equipment                           (704)    (459) 
 Proceeds on disposal of property, 
  plant and equipment                        25        - 
                                       --------  ------- 
                                          (679)    (459) 
 Financing activities 
 Interest                                     -      (1) 
 Share repurchase                         (410)    (348) 
 Equity dividends paid                    (391)    (277) 
                                       --------  ------- 
                                          (801)    (626) 
                                       --------  ------- 
 
 Net increase/(decrease) in 
  cash and cash equivalents               1,231     (47) 
 Cash and cash equivalents 
  at start of the year                    1,883    1,930 
                                                 ------- 
 Cash and cash equivalents 
  at end of the year                      3,114    1,883 
                                       ========  ======= 
 
 
 
 Audited Consolidated Statement 
  of Changes in Equity 
 Year ended 30th June 
  2016 
                                 Share      Share       Capital   Revaluation     Profit     Total 
                               capital    premium    redemption       Reserve        and    equity 
                                          account       reserve                     loss 
                                                                                 account 
                                GBP000     GBP000        GBP000        GBP000     GBP000    GBP000 
 
 At 1st July 2014               11,561        504         2,395             -    (1,968)    12,492 
 Comprehensive income 
  for then year 
 Profit for the year                 -          -             -             -        581       581 
 Other comprehensive 
  income for the year                -          -             -             -    (1,368)   (1,368) 
                             ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
 Total comprehensive 
  income for the year                -          -             -             -      (787)     (787) 
 Contributions by and 
  distributions to owners 
 Share repurchase                (710)          -           710             -          -         - 
 Consideration paid on 
  share purchase                     -          -             -             -      (348)     (348) 
 Dividend paid                       -          -             -             -      (277)     (277) 
                             ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
 Total contributions 
  by and distributions 
  to owners                      (710)          -           710             -      (625)     (625) 
                             ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
 At 30(th) June and 1st 
  July 2015                     10,851        504         3,105             -    (3,380)    11,080 
 Comprehensive Income 
  for the year 
 Profit for the year                 -          -             -             -      1,277     1,277 
 Other comprehensive 
  income for the year                -          -             -         3,009      (614)     2,395 
                             ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
 Total comprehensive 
  income for the year                -          -             -         3,009        663     3,672 
 Contributions by and 
  distributions to owners 
 Share repurchase                (512)          -           512             -          -         - 
 Consideration paid on 
  share purchase                     -          -             -             -      (410)     (410) 
 Dividend paid                       -          -             -             -      (391)     (391) 
                             ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
 Total Contributions 
  by and distributions 
  to owners                      (512)          -           512             -      (801)     (801) 
                             ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
 At 30th June 2016              10,339        504         3,617         3,009    (3,518)    13,951 
                             =========  =========  ============  ============  =========  ======== 
 
 

In accordance with Rule 20 of the AIM Rules, Airea confirms that the annual report and accounts for the year ended 30th June 2016 will be available to view on the Company's website at www.aireaplc.co.uk on 8th September 2016, and will be posted to shareholders by 16(th) September 2016.

This information is provided by RNS

The company news service from the London Stock Exchange

END

FR AKODQFBKDNCK

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

September 08, 2016 02:00 ET (06:00 GMT)

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