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SSPG Ssp Group Plc

196.20
-5.20 (-2.58%)
19 Apr 2024 - Closed
Delayed by 15 minutes
Share Name Share Symbol Market Type Share ISIN Share Description
Ssp Group Plc LSE:SSPG London Ordinary Share GB00BGBN7C04 ORD 1 17/200P
  Price Change % Change Share Price Bid Price Offer Price High Price Low Price Open Price Shares Traded Last Trade
  -5.20 -2.58% 196.20 197.20 197.50 200.00 196.00 199.10 2,361,697 16:35:08
Industry Sector Turnover Profit EPS - Basic PE Ratio Market Cap
Food Preparations, Nec 3.02B 8.1M 0.0102 193.33 1.57B

SSP Group PLC Final Results (3604Q)

29/11/2016 7:01am

UK Regulatory


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TIDMSSPG

RNS Number : 3604Q

SSP Group PLC

29 November 2016

29 November 2016

SSP GROUP PLC

Results for year ended 30 September 2016

SSP Group, a leading operator of food and beverage outlets in travel locations worldwide, announces its financial results for year ended 30 September 2016.

Highlights:

-- Underlying operating profit(1) of GBP121.4m: up 18.2% at constant currency, and 24.6% at actual exchange rates

-- Like-for-like sales up 3.0%: driven by growth in air passenger travel and retailing initiatives

   --   Net gains of 1.7%: strong performances in North America and the Rest of the World 
   --   Revenue of GBP1,990m: up 5.0% at constant currency; 8.6% at actual exchange rates 

-- Underlying operating margin(1) up 70 basis points at constant currency to 6.1%: strategic initiatives delivering further improvements

   --   Underlying profit before tax of GBP107.5m: up 31.1%. Reported profit before tax of GBP105.6m 

-- Underlying earnings per share of 15.5 pence: up 26.0%. Reported earnings per share of 15.2 pence

-- Final dividend of 2.9 pence per share, bringing the full year dividend to 5.4 pence per share: up 26.0%

   --   Underlying operating cash inflow of GBP78.3m, after increased investment in the business 
   --   Brand and concept portfolio further strengthened 
   --   Encouraging pipeline of new contracts 

Commenting on the results, Kate Swann, CEO of SSP Group, said:

"SSP has delivered another good performance in 2016 and we continue to make progress on our strategic initiatives. Constant currency operating profit was up 18% driven by good like-for-like sales growth, further operational improvements and higher new contract openings. We continue to develop our presence across the world, particularly in North America and Asia Pacific.

"The new financial year has started in line with our expectations and whilst a degree of uncertainty always exists around passenger numbers in the short term, we continue to be well placed to benefit from the structural growth opportunities in our markets and our programme of operational improvements."

Financial highlights:

 
                                                  Year on year 
                                                     change 
                          2016      2015       Constant     Actual 
                           GBPm      GBPm     currency(2)      FX 
                                                             rates 
 Revenue                 1,990.3   1,832.9      +5.0%        +8.6% 
 Like-for-like sales 
  growth(3)               +3.0%     +3.7%         n/a         n/a 
 Underlying operating 
  profit(1)               121.4     97.4        +18.2%      +24.6% 
 Underlying operating 
  margin(1)               6.1%      5.3%       +70 bps      +80 bps 
 Underlying profit 
  before tax(1)           107.5     82.0         n/a        +31.1% 
 Underlying earnings 
  per share (p)(1)        15.5      12.3         n/a        +26.0% 
 Dividend per share 
  (p)                      5.4       4.3         n/a        +25.6% 
 Underlying operating 
  cash inflow(4)          78.3      70.8         n/a        +10.6% 
 Net debt                (317.4)   (319.8)       n/a         +0.8% 
 

Statutory reported results:

The table below summarises the Group's statutory reported results (where the financial highlights above are adjusted).

 
                       2016    2015      Year on 
                        GBPm    GBPm    year change 
 Operating profit      119.5   92.2       +29.6% 
 Operating margin      6.0%    5.0%      +100 bps 
 Profit before tax     105.6   76.8       +37.5% 
 Earnings per share 
  (p)                  15.2    11.2       +35.7% 
 

(1) Stated on an underlying basis excluding amortisation of intangible assets arising on the acquisition of the SSP business in 2006.

(2) Constant currency is based on average 2015 exchange rates weighted over the financial year by 2015 results.

(3) Like-for-like sales represent revenues generated in an equivalent period in each financial year in outlets which have been open for a minimum of 12 months. Like-for-like sales are presented on a constant currency basis.

Net contract gains / (losses) represent the net year on year revenue impact from new outlets opened and existing units closed in the past 12 months. Net contract gains / (losses) are presented on a constant currency basis.

(4) Stated on an underlying basis after capital expenditure, net cash flows to/from associates/minorities, acquisitions and tax, and excluding exceptional items.

Please refer to page 16 for supporting reconciliations from the Group's statutory reported results to these performance measures.

CONTACTS:

Investor and analyst enquiries

Sarah John, Director of Investor Relations, SSP Group plc

On 29 November: +44 (0) 7736 089218

Thereafter: +44 (0) 203 714 5251

E-mail: sarah.john@ssp-intl.com

Media enquiries

Elizabeth Davies, Group Head of Communications, SSP Group plc

+44 (0) 7740 038918

E-mail: elizabeth.davies@ssp-intl.com

Peter Ogden / Lisa Kavanagh

Powerscourt

+44 (0) 207 250 1446

E-mail: ssp@powerscourt-group.com

SSP Group plc's Preliminary Results 2016 are available at www.foodtravelexperts.com.

NOTES TO EDITORS

About SSP

SSP is a leading operator of food and beverage concessions in travel locations, operating restaurants, bars, cafés, food courts, lounges and convenience stores in airports, train stations, motorway service stations and other leisure locations. With over 50 years of experience, today we have nearly 30,000 employees, serving approximately a million customers every day. We have business at approximately 130 airports and 280 rail stations, and operate more than 2,000 units in over 30 countries around the world.

SSP operates an extensive portfolio of more than 400 international, national, and local brands. Among these are local heroes such as MASH in Copenhagen, James Martin Kitchen in London, and Hung's Delicacies in Hong Kong. Our range also includes proprietary brands created for the travel sector including Upper Crust, Le Grand Comptoir and Ritazza, as well as international names such as Burger King, Starbucks and YO! Sushi. We also create stunning bespoke concepts such as Walter at Zurich.

www.foodtravelexperts.com

Business review

Overview

The Group delivered a good performance in the year, driven by like-for-like sales growth, new contract openings across the world and the ongoing implementation of our programme of operational improvements. We are continuing to invest in the growth and development of the business and to bring new brands and concepts to our clients and customers. We are particularly pleased by the pace of development in North America and Asia Pacific, and the good progress of our strategic initiatives in the UK. Whilst the picture in Continental Europe remains mixed, we are encouraged by the improved operational performance in many of our larger countries.

Strong financial results

The financial performance of the Group is explained on an underlying basis, which is based on the statutory reported results adjusted for the effects of foreign exchange and excluding the amortisation of intangible assets created on the acquisition of the SSP business in 2006. The statutory reported performance of the Group is explained in the financial review, with detailed reconciliation between statutory and underlying performance provided on page 16.

The Group delivered a strong financial performance in 2016, with underlying operating profit increasing by 18.2% (on a constant currency basis) to GBP121.4m, and with a constant currency increase in the operating margin of 70 bps to 6.1%.

Total revenue increased by 5.0% on a constant currency basis, including like-for-like sales growth of 3.0%, net contract gains of 1.7% and a further 0.3% arising from the additional leap year day. After a strong start to the year, with like-for-like sales growth of 3.3% in the first half, like-for-like sales in the second half were slightly weaker, impacted by terrorist incidents in France, Belgium and Egypt and slowing growth in China. However at 2.9%, like-for-like sales growth in the second half was slightly ahead of our expectations.

Overall, like-for-like sales in the air sector grew more strongly than in rail, driven by the continued increase in passenger numbers throughout the year. Following the terrorist incidents in France and Belgium in the first half, trading across our UK and Continental European rail operations has remained slightly softer, particularly in the major capital cities.

Net contract gains were up 1.7% in the full year, an encouraging increase from last year's growth of 0.6%. Over the year we saw very strong contributions from North America and the Rest of the World, reporting net gains of c. 13% and 14%. New unit openings in Houston, Orlando and Montreal airports in North America, and at Dubai, Beijing and Bangkok's Don Mueang airports in the Rest of the World have contributed to this strong performance. We continue to focus on retaining profitable contracts and our contract renewal rate in 2016 was in line with our plans and slightly ahead of the historical average.

We are encouraged by the pipeline of new contracts. During the year we won a number of significant new contracts, including at airports in Newark, Vancouver, Los Angeles, Frankfurt, Dusseldorf, Bangkok, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Phuket. We expect to begin operating these contracts progressively over the next 3 years.

The strong operating margin improvement of 70 bps reflects the like-for-like sales growth and further encouraging progress on our strategic programmes. This was slightly ahead of our expectations, due to the stronger like-for-like sales growth in the second half and the fact that some expected pre-opening costs will now fall into the new financial year reflecting the slightly later timing of certain new unit openings.

We delivered strong free cash flow of GBP65.0m, after investing GBP95.9m in capital expenditure, which was a GBP15.2m increase on the prior year. The increase in capital expenditure reflects the increased number of new units opened in the year and is consistent with the increased net gains of 1.7%

The reduction in reported net debt of GBP2.4m to GBP317.4m masks a good underlying performance. On a constant currency basis net debt reduced by GBP41.5m driven by the free cash flow of GBP65.0m, net of the dividend payment of GBP22.3m.

Strategy

Our strategy is focused on creating long term sustainable value for our shareholders, delivered through five key levers. We made further progress on each of these levers in the year:

   1.    Optimising our offer and driving like-for-like sales growth 

We are focused on the food and beverage markets in travel locations, which benefit from long term structural growth. We aim to use our retailing skills and broad portfolio of brands to drive profitable like-for-like sales, ensuring that we benefit from the positive trends in these markets.

We have delivered another year of strong like-for-like sales growth in 2016. We continue to make good progress on rolling out our retailing programmes, which are increasingly gaining traction and supporting growth in like-for-like sales. We have made further good progress on ranging improvements, ensuring that we deliver the optimal range to customers and this year we have launched a premium product range called "Fine Foods" in our Ritazza brand. We have also had good success in extending the Millie's Cookies brand to on-line sales and introducing a Millie's bake at home offer.

Brands are important to SSP and support our ability to win new business, secure contract renewals and drive like-for-like sales. We have added strong names to our portfolio across the globe, for example, opening our first Hard Rock Cafe at Tampa Airport in the year, as well as our first Leon at Liverpool Street Station. In the US we have opened Osteria at Los Angeles Airport and in Asia the S&P Thai Restaurant at Bangkok's Don Mueang Airport, both strong local heroes. We are also very pleased to have agreed a deal with Itsu and the first site is expected to open at a London mainline railway station during the next year. We continue to work with high profile chefs across the globe and have secured an agreement with Paul Hollywood to open a new bakery concept in the UK rail business during 2017. In total SSP now operate over 400 brands globally

   2.    Growing profitable new space 

The travel food and beverage market in airports and railway stations is valued at approximately GBP14bn and characterised by long term structural growth. It offers excellent opportunities for SSP to expand its business across the globe.

Net contract gains were 1.7%, driven by new unit openings and high levels of contract retention. The growth in net gains was driven by strong performances in North America, which benefited from new openings at airports in Houston, Orlando, Tampa and Montreal, and in the Rest of the World, where we opened new units at Dubai, Beijing, Hong Kong, Phuket and Bangkok Don Mueang Airports. These large and growing markets (where we still have a relatively small share) represent an attractive expansion opportunity and the pipeline of new contracts is encouraging. We have strong disciplines around the contract tendering process which support our ability to deliver attractive returns from new business.

Our new business growth is underpinned by our ability to deliver attractive and effective food solutions at travel locations internationally. An important element of this is the brand line up we can offer. Our brands include both international brands which we franchise, such as Burger King and Starbucks, but also our own proprietary brands such as Upper Crust and Ritazza, as well as local heroes and bespoke concepts.

A significant development for SSP has been our recent agreement to enter India, the world's second most populated country with over one billion inhabitants. India has seen sustained strong passenger growth in recent years and this is forecast to continue. Infrastructure growth is expected to support this and it has been reported that the government is scheduled to invest $120bn in airport infrastructure over the next decade. SSP has agreed to enter into a joint venture with K Hospitality Group whose Travel Food Services ("TFS") business is well established in India with over 170 units. TFS operates in 6 of the main airports including Delhi and Mumbai and also has operations in rail. Like SSP, TFS runs both their own brands, such as Curry Kitchen and Cafeccino, as well as leading third party brands, such as KFC, Pizza Hut and Krispy Kreme.

This partnership is in line with our strategy as set out at the IPO, which included expansion into new markets which offer the opportunity for value-creating growth. TFS brings a well-established business with a strong portfolio of brands. The combination of SSP's international expertise in the travel sector and TFS' strong local presence will provide an excellent platform for future growth in the Indian travel market. The acquisition of the initial 33% stake is expected to be fully complete by February 2017.

   3.    Optimising gross margins 

We increased gross margin by 70 bps in the year at constant currency. We continue to make good progress on our margin initiatives across the regions. Procurement disciplines are becoming increasingly embedded into the business. Recipe rationalisation and improvement is progressing well and we continue to eliminate unnecessary duplication of products and ingredients in our supply chain. We have also brought significantly more focus to waste and loss management. To support these initiatives, we have invested in central and local resources, including strengthening our purchasing teams, and recruiting central waste and loss prevention specialists.

   4.    Running an efficient and effective organisation 

We have made good progress in our multi-year programme to improve operating efficiency. Labour efficiencies (including central labour) contributed a 30 bps improvement to our operating margin.

We continue to develop systems to better align labour to sales allowing us to optimise service levels and labour costs. We have started to develop a more standardised, systematised process to ensure labour forecasting and scheduling becomes a core competence, through a programme called Better Service Planning. This year we have completed the development of a new forecasting tool which, in trials, delivered a significant improvement in the accuracy of sales forecasting. Having successfully piloted this, together with a new scheduling tool in the UK, we are now planning further roll out across the Group.

At the same time we saw advances in our management of overheads, which contributed a further 10 bps improvement to our operating margin.

We continue to see many good opportunities for further improvement to the efficiency and effectiveness of the business.

   5.    Optimising investment utilising best practice and shared resource 

We continue to focus on generating efficiencies to optimise our investments, drive returns and use best practice and shared resources. We have, for example, tight controls on the use of capital across the business. Potential projects are carefully evaluated before proceeding, closely managed through the process of fit out and the commencement of operations and thoroughly reviewed to compare budgeted to actual outcomes.

In addition to this we are increasingly looking at how shared back office services can reduce bureaucracy and cost and drive simpler, more efficient processes. Following a successful trial to consolidate certain finance and accounting processes, we have now established two outsourced shared service facilities which are used by a number of SSP's countries.

Summary and outlook

The Group delivered a strong financial performance in the year with good like-for-like sales growth, net gains and improvement in operating margin. The new financial year has started in line with our expectations and the pipeline of new contracts is encouraging, although it is always difficult to predict the precise timing of the opening of these new units. Looking forward to 2017, with tough like-for-like sales comparatives in the first half of the year and the current level of general economic uncertainty, we anticipate slightly lower like-for-like revenue growth next year. However the significant structural growth opportunities and our programme to deliver operational improvements, leave us well placed to continue to deliver both for our customers and our shareholders.

Financial review

Group performance

 
                                                        Change 
----------------------  --------  --------  ----------------------------- 
                            2016      2015               Constant 
                            GBPm      GBPm   Reported    currency     LFL 
----------------------  --------  --------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 Revenue                 1,990.3   1,832.9      +8.6%       +5.0%   +3.0% 
----------------------  --------  --------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 Underlying operating 
  profit                   121.4      97.4     +24.6%      +18.2% 
----------------------  --------  --------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 Underlying operating 
  margin                    6.1%      5.3%      +0.8%       +0.7% 
----------------------  --------  --------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 Operating profit          119.5      92.2     +29.6% 
----------------------  --------  --------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 Operating margin           6.0%      5.0%      +1.0% 
----------------------  --------  --------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 

Revenue

Revenue increased by 5.0% on a constant currency basis, comprising like-for-like sales growth of 3.0%, net contract gains of 1.7% and a further 0.3% from the additional leap year day. At actual exchange rates, total revenue grew by 8.6%, to GBP1,990.3m.

Like-for-like sales growth of 3.0% benefited from the continued growth in passenger travel, particularly in the air channel, and the positive impact of rolling out our strategic initiatives. Net gains contributed 1.7% to full year revenue growth, driven by strong contributions from North America and the Rest of the World region. Net gains during the second half of the year were slightly softer at 1.4%, as we saw the impact of our business at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris being transferred into a joint venture with Aéroports de Paris, which we do not consolidate, and reflecting the slightly later timing of certain new unit openings. Looking forward to 2017, excluding the impact of the recently-announced TFS joint venture in India, we would expect net contract gains to run at around 2.0%, although they are likely to be lower in the first half until we reach the anniversary in February of the commencement of the new Aéroports de Paris joint venture. We expect the TFS joint venture to contribute approximately 2.0% to 2017 sales growth.

Trading results from outside the UK are converted into sterling at the average exchange rates for the year. The overall impact on revenue of the movement of foreign currencies (principally the Euro, US Dollar, Swedish Krona and Norwegian Krone) in 2016 compared to the 2015 average was +3.6%. If the current spot rates were to continue through 2017, we would expect a further positive currency impact on revenue of around 6% compared to the average rates used for 2016. This is however a translation impact only.

Underlying operating profit

Underlying operating profit increased by 18.2% on a constant currency basis, and by 24.6% at actual exchange rates to GBP121.4m. The underlying operating profit margin improved by 70 bps on a constant currency basis and 80 bps at actual exchange rates to 6.1%, reflecting good like-for-like sales growth and further encouraging progress on our strategic programmes, as well as the deferral of some pre-opening costs into 2017, reflecting the slightly later timing of certain new unit openings.

Gross margin increased by 70 bps year on year on a constant currency basis, or 50 bps underlying when adjusted for the higher sales growth in the air sector compared with the rail sector. The additional 20 bps margin growth arises because air sales typically have higher gross margins, but also higher concession fees relative to rail sales. The strong underlying performance was driven by the ongoing roll out of our strategic initiatives, including improved ranging and mix management, food procurement, and waste and loss reduction. Following the exceptional performance this year, looking forward to 2017 we expect the air and rail sales growth to revert to more normal levels and we are anticipating somewhat higher levels of food cost inflation. As a consequence, our expectation is for more modest year on year improvement in gross margin.

Labour costs improved by 30 bps year on year on a constant currency basis, or 40 bps before absorbing the impact of additional share-based payment costs. The improvement in labour ratios was driven by our broad based programmes to optimise service levels and labour costs. Looking forward to 2017, we expect to see more modest improvements in our labour ratios, as we face increases in labour costs, notably in the UK, with the increase in the National Living Wage, and in North America, where we also anticipate rising minimum wage levels in a number of states.

Concession fees rose by 50 bps, with the stronger growth in air sales contributing approximately 10 bps to the year on year increase. We would expect the underlying increase in concession fees of 40 bps to continue into 2017.

We made further good progress in overhead efficiency which improved by 10 bps year on year.

Operating profit

Operating profit was GBP119.5m (2015: GBP92.2m), reflecting an adjustment for the amortisation of acquisition-related intangible assets of GBP1.9m (2015: GBP5.2m).

Regional performance

UK

 
                                                    Change 
----------------------  ------  ------  ----------------------------- 
                          2016    2015               Constant 
                          GBPm    GBPm   Reported    currency     LFL 
----------------------  ------  ------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 Revenue                 749.4   727.2      +3.1%       +2.9%   +3.1% 
----------------------  ------  ------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 Underlying operating 
  profit (1)              66.4    52.7     +26.0%      +25.8% 
----------------------  ------  ------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 Underlying operating 
  margin (1)              8.9%    7.2%      +1.7%       +1.7% 
----------------------  ------  ------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 

(1) Statutory reported operating profit was GBP64.9m and operating margin was 8.7% reflecting an adjustment for the amortisation of acquisition related intangible assets of GBP1.5m.

Revenue increased by 2.9% on a constant currency basis, comprising like-for-like growth of 3.1% and net contract losses of 0.5%. The impact of the additional leap year day added an additional 0.3% to the year's revenue growth. Like-for-like growth was particularly strong in the air sector, driven by continued growth in UK airport passenger numbers and increased spend per passenger. The rail sector saw weaker trading, with lower passenger numbers and dwell times, notably in London stations. This was particularly marked following the Paris attacks in mid-November.

Underlying operating profit for the UK increased by 25.8% on a constant currency basis to GBP66.4m, while underlying operating margin increased by 170 bps to 8.9%, benefiting from good like-for-like sales growth in the air sector, and from the implementation of our strategic initiatives, particularly gross margin optimisation, where the UK continues to lead the roll out of many of our retailing and procurement programmes.

Continental Europe

 
                                                    Change 
----------------------  ------  ------  ----------------------------- 
                          2016    2015               Constant 
                          GBPm    GBPm   Reported    currency     LFL 
----------------------  ------  ------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 Revenue                 796.8   749.7      +6.3%       +1.4%   +2.8% 
----------------------  ------  ------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 Underlying operating 
  profit (2)              60.1    53.5     +12.3%       +3.9% 
----------------------  ------  ------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 Underlying operating 
  margin (2)              7.5%    7.1%      +0.4%       +0.2% 
----------------------  ------  ------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 

(2) Statutory reported operating profit was GBP59.7m and operating margin was 7.5% reflecting an adjustment for the amortisation of acquisition related intangible assets of GBP0.4m.

Revenue increased by 1.4% on a constant currency basis, comprising like-for-like growth of 2.8% and net contract losses of 1.7%. The impact of the additional leap year day added an additional 0.3% to the year's revenue growth. Similar to the UK, like-for-like sales were much stronger in air than in rail, with good growth in the air businesses in the Nordic region and in Spain, which has benefited from the transfer of tourism from the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East. This contrasted with more difficult trading conditions in the rail businesses, particularly in France and Belgium, both of which were impacted by geopolitical incidents.

Underlying operating profit increased by 3.9% on a constant currency basis to GBP60.1m. Profit growth was impacted by the sharp fall in sales following the terrorist incidents in the first half. Nevertheless, the underlying operating margin increased by 20 bps on a constant currency basis to 7.5%, benefiting from the ongoing roll-out of our strategic initiatives.

North America

 
                                                    Change 
----------------------  ------  ------  ----------------------------- 
                          2016    2015               Constant 
                          GBPm    GBPm   Reported    currency     LFL 
----------------------  ------  ------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 Revenue                 262.7   201.6     +30.3%      +20.9%   +7.5% 
----------------------  ------  ------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 Underlying operating 
  profit (3)              12.5     3.5    +257.1%     +231.4% 
----------------------  ------  ------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 Underlying operating 
  margin (3)              4.8%    1.7%      +3.1%       +3.1% 
----------------------  ------  ------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 

(3) There are no adjustments between underlying operating profit and statutory reported operating profit.

Revenue increased by 20.9% on a constant currency basis, comprising like-for-like growth of 7.5% and net contract gains of 13.1%. The impact of the additional leap year day added a further 0.3% to the year's revenue growth. Like-for-like growth benefited from positive trends in airport passenger numbers in the North American market, as well as the transfer of additional Delta passengers into Terminal 4 at New York's JFK airport, the anniversary of which we passed during the second quarter. Net contract gains were driven principally by new outlets at a number of airports, including Houston, Orlando, Montreal and Toronto.

Underlying operating profit increased by GBP9.0m to GBP12.5m, and underlying operating margin made excellent progress, increasing from 1.7% to 4.8%, driven by the benefit of increased sales and good progress on a number of the Group's productivity initiatives. This included a particularly strong contribution from our procurement initiatives, and was achieved despite the pre-opening costs associated with the ongoing opening programme.

Rest of the World

 
                                                    Change 
----------------------  ------  ------  ----------------------------- 
                          2016    2015               Constant 
                          GBPm    GBPm   Reported    currency     LFL 
----------------------  ------  ------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 Revenue                 181.4   154.4     +17.5%      +12.3%   -2.1% 
----------------------  ------  ------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 Underlying operating 
  profit (4)               8.6    14.6     -41.1%      -44.5% 
----------------------  ------  ------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 Underlying operating 
  margin (4)              4.7%    9.5%      -4.8%       -4.8% 
----------------------  ------  ------  ---------  ----------  ------ 
 

(4) There are no adjustments between underlying operating profit and statutory reported operating profit.

Revenue increased by 12.3% on a constant currency basis, with a reduction in like-for-like sales of 2.1% offset by net contract gains of 14.1%. The impact of the additional leap year day added a further 0.3% to revenue. The fall in like-for-like sales reflected the sharp drop in passenger numbers across Egypt following the Sharm-el-Sheikh bombing in late October. In addition to this we have also seen a slowing of growth in China, particularly during the second half, which has impacted a number of countries across the Asia Pacific region. Net contract gains included new openings in Dubai Airport, in Don Mueang Airport in Thailand and in Beijing Airport in China, as well as outlets opened in the prior year at a number of locations across the region.

Underlying operating profit for the Rest of the World was GBP8.6m, a reduction of 44.5% on a constant currency basis. The underlying operating margin reduced by 480 bps to 4.7% which was largely a consequence of the terrorist incident in Egypt, where sales fell by over 50% year on year. In addition, the region was impacted by significant pre-opening costs, particularly in Dubai and Beijing airports during the first half, and by higher depreciation charges associated with new contracts.

Share of profit of associates

The Group's share of profit from associates was GBP1.3m (2015: GBP1.6m).

Net finance costs

Net finance costs were GBP15.2m, a reduction of GBP1.8m compared to 2015, due to lower average levels of net debt and a reduction in margin following the "amend and extend" on our debt facilities, completed in July 2015.

Taxation

The Group's tax charge for the year was GBP23.8m (2015: GBP16.5m), equivalent to an effective tax rate of 22.5% (2015: 21.5%) on the reported profit before tax.

Non-controlling interests

The non-controlling interests' share of after-tax profits increased year on year by GBP2.9m to GBP9.8m. This increase primarily reflected the growth and improved profitability of our North America business, where our business partners often have a minority interest in individual contracts. We expect this rate of growth to continue in 2017, and in addition would expect to see an incremental c. GBP3m minority charge arising from the part year consolidation of the TFS business once the first stage of the acquisition is completed during the first half.

Earnings per share

Underlying earnings per share, which excludes the impact of exceptional items and the amortisation of intangible assets arising on the 2006 acquisition of the SSP business, was 15.5 pence per share (2015: 12.3 pence per share).

Reported earnings per share was 15.2 pence per share (2015: 11.2 pence per share).

Dividends

The Directors are proposing a final dividend of 2.9 pence per share (2015: 2.2 pence per share), which is subject to shareholder approval at the Annual General Meeting. If approved, this will result in a total dividend per share for the year of 5.4 pence (2015: 4.3 pence), consistent with the Board's intentions as stated in the IPO prospectus for an initial payout ratio of approximately 30 to 40% of annual underlying profit.

The final dividend will be paid, subject to shareholder approval, on 31 March 2017 to shareholders on the register on 3 March 2017. The ex-dividend date will be 2 March 2017.

Cash flow

The table below presents a summary of the Group's cash flow for 2016:

 
                                                  2016     2015 
                                                  GBPm     GBPm 
 Underlying operating profit(1)                  121.4     97.4 
 Depreciation and amortisation                    78.8     72.9 
 Working capital                                   3.8      5.3 
 Net tax                                        (20.0)   (17.3) 
 Other                                             4.5      1.0 
 Net cash flow from operating activities         188.5    159.3 
 Capital expenditure (2)                        (95.9)   (80.7) 
 Investment in associate                         (4.7)        - 
 Net dividends to/from minorities/associates     (8.8)    (5.5) 
 Other                                           (0.8)    (2.3) 
 Underlying operating cash flow                   78.3     70.8 
 Net finance costs                              (13.3)   (16.1) 
                                               -------  ------- 
 Underlying free cash flow                        65.0     54.7 
 Exceptional costs                                   -   (12.0) 
 Dividend paid                                  (22.3)   (10.0) 
 Other                                               -    (1.0) 
                                               -------  ------- 
 Net cash flow                                    42.7     31.7 
                                               -------  ------- 
 

(1) Excludes the amortisation of intangible assets arising on acquisition of the SSP business in 2006

(2) Capital expenditure is net of capital contributions from non-controlling interests of GBP8.4m (2015: GBP1.1m)

The Group generated net cash flow from operating activities of GBP188.5m (2015: GBP159.3m) and free cash flow of GBP65.0m, an increase of GBP10.3m compared to 2015, driven by the growth in operating profit, and after increased investment in the business. Capital expenditure increased by GBP15.2m to GBP95.9m, reflecting the larger new opening programme in 2016, as well as the impact of the weakening of Sterling during the year. The investment in associate of GBP4.7m comprised the initial capitalisation of our new joint venture with Aéroports de Paris, which commenced trading in February.

Given the pipeline of new contracts for 2017 and the current planned opening programme, we expect capital expenditure to increase to around GBP100m in 2017 on a constant currency basis. In addition to this we expect an additional GBP5m of capital expenditure arising from the TFS joint venture in India. If current exchange rates continue for the remainder of the year, the translation into Sterling would add a further GBP7m to reported capital expenditure.

Working capital generated GBP3.8m of cash flow during the year, consistent with the growth in the business. Cash dividends to minorities, net of dividends received from associates, increased to GBP8.8m (2015: GBP5.5m) primarily reflecting growth in the North America business, while taxes paid increased by GBP2.7m to GBP20.0m.

Net finance costs paid of GBP13.3m were lower than in 2015, mainly reflecting the reduction in margin following the "amend and extend" of our borrowing facilities in July 2015. The dividend paid of GBP22.3m reflected the cost of the 2015 final dividend of 2.2 pence per share and the 2016 interim dividend of 2.5p per share.

Overall, the Group generated net cash flow of GBP42.7m during the year.

Acquisition of TFS

In October 2016, SSP announced the agreement to create a joint venture with K Hospitality Group, whereby SSP will own a 49% share in Travel Food Services Private Limited, a leading operator of food and beverage concessions in travel locations in India.

SSP is acquiring 49% of TFS for an expected net consideration of GBP57.9m. The acquisition will take place in two stages. The first stage to acquire a 33% stake for an estimated net consideration of GBP39.0m, is expected to be fully completed by the end of February 2017. The second stage, to acquire a further 16% is expected to take place by the end of 2018, for a net consideration of approximately GBP18.9m, contingent on the performance of the business.

The table below summarises TFS' performance for its financial year ended 31 March 2016 and our expectation for its year ending 31 March 2017. On a proportionately consolidated basis TFS delivered revenue of GBP41.7m and EBITDA of GBP8.3m in its year ended 31 March 2016. Following its 2016 year end, TFS bought out a number of its joint venture partners, and the impact of these buyouts, along with the full year benefit of sales from units opened in 2016 and the like-for-like sales growth, is expected to add approximately GBP3m to TFS' EBITDA.

SSP will have management and operational control of TFS and as such TFS and its group companies will be fully consolidated into SSP's financial statements. Accounting standards require SSP to gross up TFS' existing joint ventures for consolidation. This will increase the reported consolidated revenue and profit which is set out in the fully consolidated proforma numbers in the table below. However, this will be reversed through a bigger minority charge, initially of 73%, and has no effect on the Group's economic interest or net income.

 
 TFS Year           Proportionately         Fully 
  ended 31            consolidated       consolidated 
  March                                    proforma 
 GBPm              2016       2017          2017 
                   Actual    Estimate      Estimate 
                                       -------------- 
 Revenue           41.7       56.9          69.6 
 EBITDA             8.3       11.3          13.8 
 % Sales            20%        20%           20% 
 Depreciation                 (2.8)         (3.5) 
 % Sales                       5%            5% 
 Restructuring                (0.5)         (0.5) 
                                       -------------- 
 EBIT                          8.0           9.8 
 Tax                          (2.7)         (3.3) 
                               34%           34% 
 
 Minorities                   (3.6)         (4.8) 
                               67%           73% 
 Net income                    1.7           1.7 
                           ----------  -------------- 
 

All figures based on an exchange rate of Indian Rupees to Sterling of 81.9.

Balance sheet and net debt

The Group's balance sheet strengthened in the year, with year-end net debt reducing to GBP317.4m (2015: GBP319.8m) and net assets increasing to GBP382.7m (2015: GBP291.7m).

 
                                         GBPm 
 Opening net debt (30 September 
  2015)                               (319.8) 
 Net cash flow                           42.7 
 Impact of foreign exchange rates      (39.1) 
 Other                                  (1.2) 
 Closing net debt (30 September 
  2016)                               (317.4) 
                                     -------- 
 

The reduction in net debt of GBP2.4m was driven by the net cash flow generation of GBP42.7m offset by a foreign exchange translation impact of GBP39.1m arising from the weakening of Sterling during the year.

Leverage reduced during the year, leaving Net debt: EBITDA at the year-end at 1.6 times, compared with 1.9 times at the end of the prior year.

Alternative Performance Measures

The Directors use alternative performance measures as they believe these measures provide additional useful information on the underlying trends, performance and position of the Group. These measures are used for performance analysis. The alternative performance measures are not defined by IFRS and therefore may not be directly comparable with other companies' performance measures and are not intended to be a substitute for IFRS measures.

Revenue growth

As the Group operates in over 30 countries, it is exposed to translation risk on fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, and as such the Group's reported revenue and operating profit will be impacted by movements in actual exchange rates. The Group presents its financial results on a constant currency basis in order to eliminate the effect of foreign exchange rates and to evaluate the underlying performance of the Group's businesses. The table below reconciles reported revenue to constant currency sales growth, like-for-like sales growth and net contract gains / (losses).

 
                                   UK            Continental      North      RoW         Total 
                                                      Europe    America 
 2016 Revenue at actual 
  rates by segment (GBPm)       749.4                  796.8      262.7    181.4       1,990.3 
 Impact of foreign exchange 
  (GBPm)                        (1.3)                 (36.6)     (19.0)    (8.0)        (64.9) 
 2016 Revenue at constant 
  currency (1) (GBPm)           748.1                  760.2      243.7    173.4       1,925.4 
 
 2015 Revenue (GBPm)            727.2                  749.7      201.6    154.4       1,832.9 
 
 Constant currency sales 
  growth (%)                     2.9%                   1.4%      20.9%    12.3%          5.0% 
 
 Which is made up of: 
 Like-for-like sales 
  growth (2)                     3.1%                   2.8%       7.5%   (2.1%)          3.0% 
 Net contact gains / 
  (losses) (3)                 (0.5%)                 (1.7%)      13.1%    14.1%          1.7% 
 Constant currency sales 
  growth excluding the 
  impact of the leap year        2.6%                   1.1%      20.6%    12.0%          4.7% 
 Impact of additional 
  leap year day                  0.3%                   0.3%       0.3%     0.3%          0.3% 
                                 2.9%                   1.4%      20.9%    12.3%          5.0% 
                              =======  =====================  =========  =======  ============ 
 

1 Constant currency is based on average 2015 exchange rates weighted over the financial year by 2015 results.

2 Like-for-like sales represent revenues generated in an equivalent period in each financial year in outlets which have been open for a minimum of 12 months. Like-for-like sales are presented on a constant currency basis.

3 Revenue in outlets which have been open for less than 12 months are excluded from like-for-like sales and classified as contract gains. Prior period revenues in respect of closed outlets are excluded from like-for-like sales and classified as contract losses. Net contract gains / (losses) are presented on a constant currency basis.

Underlying profit measures

The Group presents underlying profit measures, including operating profit, profit before tax and earnings per share, which exclude amortisation of intangible assets arising on the acquisition of the SSP business. A reconciliation from the underlying to the statutory reported basis is presented below.

 
                                   2016                               2015 
                     Underlying   Adjustments   Total   Underlying   Adjustments   Total 
 Operating profit 
  (GBPm)                  121.4         (1.9)   119.5         97.4         (5.2)    92.2 
 Operating margin 
  (%)                      6.1%        (0.1%)    6.0%         5.3%        (0.3%)    5.0% 
 Profit before 
  tax (GBPm)              107.5         (1.9)   105.6         82.0         (5.2)    76.8 
 Earnings per 
  share (p)                15.5         (0.3)    15.2         12.3         (1.1)    11.2 
 

Consolidated income statement

for the year ended 30 September 2016

 
                                                2016                                   2015 
                                Underlying                             Underlying 
                                         *   Adjustments       Total            *   Adjustments       Total 
                        Notes         GBPm          GBPm        GBPm         GBPm          GBPm        GBPm 
 
 Revenue                    2      1,990.3             -     1,990.3      1,832.9             -     1,832.9 
 Operating 
  costs                     4    (1,868.9)         (1.9)   (1,870.8)    (1,735.5)         (5.2)   (1,740.7) 
 
 Operating 
  profit                             121.4         (1.9)       119.5         97.4         (5.2)        92.2 
 
 Share of 
  profit of 
  associates                           1.3             -         1.3          1.6             -         1.6 
 Finance income             5          0.5             -         0.5          0.7             -         0.7 
 Finance expense            5       (15.7)             -      (15.7)       (17.7)             -      (17.7) 
 
 Profit before 
  tax                                107.5         (1.9)       105.6         82.0         (5.2)        76.8 
 
 Taxation                           (24.2)           0.4      (23.8)       (16.9)           0.4      (16.5) 
 
 Profit for 
  the year                            83.3         (1.5)        81.8         65.1         (4.8)        60.3 
                               ===========  ============  ==========  ===========  ============  ========== 
 
 Profit attributable 
  to: 
 Equity holders 
  of the parent                       73.5         (1.5)        72.0         58.2         (4.8)        53.4 
 Non-controlling 
  interests                            9.8             -         9.8          6.9             -         6.9 
 
 Profit for 
  the year                            83.3         (1.5)        81.8         65.1         (4.8)        60.3 
                               ===========  ============  ==========  ===========  ============  ========== 
 
 Earnings 
  per share 
  (p): 
 - Basic                    3         15.5                      15.2         12.3                      11.2 
 - Diluted                  3         15.4                      15.0         12.2                      11.2 
 
 

* The underlying numbers exclude non-cash accounting adjustments relating to amortisation of intangible assets arising on acquisition of the SSP business in 2006.

Consolidated statement of other comprehensive income

for the year ended 30 September 2016

 
                                               2016     2015 
                                               GBPm     GBPm 
 
 Other comprehensive income / (expense) 
 
 Items that will never be reclassified 
  to the income statement 
 
 Remeasurements on defined benefit 
  pension schemes                             (4.1)      3.6 
 Income tax credit relating to items            1.7        - 
  that will not be reclassified 
 
 Items that are or may be reclassified 
  subsequently to the income statement 
 
 Net (loss) / gain on hedge of net 
  investment in foreign operations           (48.5)     21.5 
 Other foreign exchange translation 
  differences                                  83.2   (25.3) 
 Effective portion of changes in 
  fair value of cash flow hedges              (6.7)    (9.2) 
 Cash flow hedges - reclassified 
  to the income statement                       2.7      0.9 
 Income tax credit relating to items 
  that are or may be reclassified               1.1      1.0 
 
 Other comprehensive income / (expense) 
  for the year                                 29.4    (7.5) 
 Profit for the year                           81.8     60.3 
 
 Total comprehensive income for the 
  year                                        111.2     52.8 
                                            =======  ======= 
 
 Total comprehensive income attributable 
  to: 
 Equity shareholders                           97.4     45.1 
 Non-controlling interests                     13.8      7.7 
 
 Total comprehensive income for the 
  year                                        111.2     52.8 
                                            =======  ======= 
 

Consolidated balance sheet

as at 30 September 2016

 
                                               2016      2015 
                                               GBPm      GBPm 
 Non-current assets 
 Property, plant and equipment                272.0     212.7 
 Goodwill and intangible assets               701.3     632.1 
 Investments in associates                      9.3       5.4 
 Deferred tax assets                           18.1      11.4 
 Other receivables                             37.3      26.6 
                                            1,038.0     888.2 
 Current assets 
 Inventories                                   29.2      26.0 
 Tax receivable                                 4.3       0.7 
 Trade and other receivables                  118.1      89.5 
 Cash and cash equivalents              8     155.8     134.7 
                                              307.4     250.9 
 
 Total assets                               1,345.4   1,139.1 
                                           --------  -------- 
 
 Current liabilities 
 Short term borrowings                  8    (30.7)    (27.7) 
 Trade and other payables                   (404.1)   (329.3) 
 Tax payable                                 (23.8)    (14.6) 
 Provisions                                   (2.3)         - 
                                            (460.9)   (371.6) 
 Non-current liabilities 
 Long term borrowings                   8   (442.5)   (426.8) 
 Post employment benefit obligations         (19.2)    (13.7) 
 Provisions                                  (13.8)    (16.0) 
 Derivative financial liabilities       8    (14.2)     (9.8) 
 Deferred tax liabilities                    (12.1)     (9.5) 
                                            (501.8)   (475.8) 
 
 Total liabilities                          (962.7)   (847.4) 
 
 Net assets                                   382.7     291.7 
                                           ========  ======== 
 
 Equity 
 Share capital                                  4.7       4.7 
 Share premium                                461.2     461.2 
 Capital redemption reserve                     1.2       1.2 
 Other reserves                                21.5     (6.3) 
 Retained earnings                          (138.0)   (190.6) 
 
 Total equity shareholders' funds             350.6     270.2 
 Non-controlling interests                     32.1      21.5 
 
 Total equity                                 382.7     291.7 
                                           ========  ======== 
 

Consolidated statement of changes in equity

for the year ended 30 September 2016

 
                        Share       Share       Capital      Other   Retained      Total   Non-controlling       Total 
                      capital     premium   redemp-tion   reserves   earnings     parent         interests      equity 
                                                reserve        (1)                equity 
                         GBPm        GBPm          GBPm       GBPm       GBPm       GBPm              GBPm        GBPm 
 
 At 30 September 
  2014                    5.9       461.2             -        5.6    (241.4)      231.3              19.1       250.4 
 Profit for the 
  year                      -           -             -          -       53.4       53.4               6.9        60.3 
 Other 
  comprehensive 
  (expense) / 
  income for the 
  year                      -           -             -     (11.9)        3.6      (8.3)               0.8       (7.5) 
 Cancellation of 
  deferred shares       (1.2)           -           1.2          -          -          -                 -           - 
 Capital 
  contributions 
  from 
  non-controlling 
  interests                 -           -             -          -          -          -               1.1         1.1 
 Dividends paid 
  to equity 
  shareholders              -           -             -          -     (10.0)     (10.0)                 -      (10.0) 
 Dividends paid 
  to 
  non-controlling 
  interests                 -           -             -          -          -          -             (6.4)       (6.4) 
 Share-based 
  payments                  -           -             -          -        3.8        3.8                 -         3.8 
                   ----------  ----------  ------------  ---------  ---------  ---------  ----------------  ---------- 
 At 30 September 
  2015                    4.7       461.2           1.2      (6.3)    (190.6)      270.2              21.5       291.7 
 Profit for the 
  year                      -           -             -          -       72.0       72.0               9.8        81.8 
 Other 
  comprehensive 
  income / 
  (expense) for 
  the year                  -           -             -       27.8      (2.4)       25.4               4.0        29.4 
 Acquisition of 
  additional 
  share in 
  subsidiary                -           -             -          -        0.4        0.4             (0.5)       (0.1) 
 Capital 
  contributions 
  from 
  non-controlling 
  interests                 -           -             -          -          -          -               8.4         8.4 
 Dividends paid 
  to equity 
  shareholders 
  (note 7)                  -           -             -          -     (22.3)     (22.3)                 -      (22.3) 
 Dividends paid 
  to 
  non-controlling 
  interests                 -           -             -          -          -          -            (11.1)      (11.1) 
 Share-based 
  payments                  -           -             -          -        4.5        4.5                 -         4.5 
 Deferred tax on 
  share schemes             -           -             -          -        0.4        0.4                 -         0.4 
                   ----------  ----------  ------------  ---------  ---------  ---------  ----------------  ---------- 
 At 30 September 
  2016                    4.7       461.2           1.2       21.5    (138.0)      350.6              32.1       382.7 
                   ==========  ==========  ============  =========  =========  =========  ================  ========== 
 

(1) The increase of GBP27.8m (2015: decrease of GBP11.9m) comprises an increase to the translation reserve of GBP31.6m (2015: decrease of GBP4.3m) and a decrease to the cash flow hedging reserve of GBP3.8m (2015: decrease of GBP7.6m)

Consolidated cash flow statement

for the year ended 30 September 2016

 
                                                                      Notes      2016      2015 
                                                                                 GBPm      GBPm 
 Cash flows from operating activities 
 Cash flow from operations                                              6       208.5     179.4 
 Exceptional redundancy and restructuring costs                                     -     (2.8) 
 Tax paid                                                                      (20.0)    (17.3) 
 Net cash flows from operating activities                                       188.5     159.3 
 
 Cash flows from investing activities 
 Investment in associate                                                        (4.7)         - 
 Dividends received from associates                                               2.3       0.9 
 Interest received                                                                0.4       0.7 
 Purchase of property, plant and equipment                                     (97.6)    (78.1) 
 Purchase of other intangible assets                                            (6.7)     (3.7) 
 Acquisition of business                                                            -     (5.1) 
 Net cash flows from investing activities                                     (106.3)    (85.3) 
 
 Cash flows from financing activities 
 Repayment of borrowings                                                       (30.8)    (27.9) 
 Repayment of finance leases and other loans                                    (0.2)     (1.2) 
 Refinancing fee paid in the year                                                   -     (1.0) 
 Interest paid                                                                 (13.7)    (16.8) 
 Dividends paid to equity shareholders                                         (22.3)    (10.0) 
 Dividends paid to non-controlling interests                                   (11.1)     (6.4) 
 Acquisition of increased share of subsidiary                                   (0.8)         - 
 Capital contribution from non-controlling interests                              8.4       1.1 
 Exceptional IPO related transaction costs                                          -     (9.2) 
 Net cash flows from financing activities                                      (70.5)    (71.4) 
 
 Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents                                       11.7       2.6 
 
 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year                             134.7     133.3 
 Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents                9.4     (1.2) 
 
 Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year                                   155.8     134.7 
                                                                             ========  ======== 
 
 Reconciliation of net cash flow to movement in net debt 
 Net increase in cash in the year                                                11.7       2.6 
 Cash outflow from decrease in debt and finance leases                           31.0      29.1 
 
 Change in net debt resulting from cash flows                                    42.7      31.7 
 Translation differences                                                       (39.1)      20.3 
 Other non-cash changes                                                         (1.2)     (0.7) 
 
 Decrease in net debt in the year                                                 2.4      51.3 
 Net debt at beginning of the year                                            (319.8)   (371.1) 
 Net debt at end of the year                                                  (317.4)   (319.8) 
                                                                             ========  ======== 
 

Notes

   1              Preparation 

Basis of preparation and statement of compliance

The consolidated financial statements of SSP Group plc have been prepared on a going concern basis and in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU ("IFRS") and the Companies Act 2006 applicable to companies reporting under IFRS. These financial statements are presented in Sterling and unless stated otherwise, rounded to the nearest GBP0.1 million. The financial statements are prepared on the historical cost basis except for the derivative financial instruments which are stated at their fair value.

Changes in accounting policy and disclosures

The accounting policies adopted are consistent with those of the previous year.

There are no EU-endorsed IFRS or IFRIC interpretations that are not yet effective that are expected to have a material impact on the Group.

IFRS 16, Leases, issued in January 2016 with an effective date of 1 January 2019 is not yet EU endorsed. Management is in the process of reviewing the impact that this will have on the Group.

   2             Segmental reporting 

SSP operates in the food and beverage travel sector, mainly at airports and railway stations.

Management monitors the performance and strategic priorities of the business from a geographic perspective, and in this regard has identified the following four key "reportable segments": the UK, Continental Europe, North America and Rest of the World ("RoW"). The UK includes operations in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland; Continental Europe includes operations in the Nordic countries and in Western and Southern Europe; North America includes operations in the United States and Canada; and RoW includes operations in Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Asia Pacific. These segments comprise countries which are at similar stages of development and demonstrate similar economic characteristics.

The Group's management assesses the performance of the operating segments based on revenue and underlying operating profit. Interest income and expenditure are not allocated to segments, as they are managed by a central treasury function, which oversees the debt and liquidity position of the Group. The non-attributable segment comprises costs associated with the Group's head office function and depreciation of central assets.

 
 2016                                     UK   Continental Europe   North America     RoW   Non-attributable     Total 
                                        GBPm                 GBPm            GBPm    GBPm               GBPm      GBPm 
 
 Revenue                               749.4                796.8           262.7   181.4                  -   1,990.3 
                                     -------  -------------------  --------------  ------  -----------------  -------- 
 
 Underlying operating profit/(loss)     66.4                 60.1            12.5     8.6             (26.2)     121.4 
                                     -------  -------------------  --------------  ------  -----------------  -------- 
 
 2015                                     UK   Continental Europe   North America     RoW   Non-attributable     Total 
                                        GBPm                 GBPm            GBPm    GBPm               GBPm      GBPm 
 
 Revenue                               727.2                749.7           201.6   154.4                  -   1,832.9 
                                     -------  -------------------  --------------  ------  -----------------  -------- 
 
 Underlying operating profit/(loss)     52.7                 53.5             3.5    14.6             (26.9)      97.4 
                                     -------  -------------------  --------------  ------  -----------------  -------- 
 
 The following amounts are included in underlying operating profit: 
                                          UK   Continental Europe   North America     RoW   Non-attributable     Total 
                                        GBPm                 GBPm            GBPm    GBPm               GBPm      GBPm 
 
 2016 
                                     -------  -------------------  --------------  ------  -----------------  -------- 
 Depreciation and amortisation*       (14.2)               (34.9)          (18.0)   (9.9)              (1.8)    (78.8) 
                                     -------  -------------------  --------------  ------  -----------------  -------- 
 
 2015 
                                     -------  -------------------  --------------  ------  -----------------  -------- 
 Depreciation and amortisation*       (16.5)               (31.0)          (15.7)   (4.8)              (4.9)    (72.9) 
                                     -------  -------------------  --------------  ------  -----------------  -------- 
 
   *     Excludes amortisation of acquisition-related intangible assets. 

A reconciliation of underlying operating profit to profit before and after tax is provided as follows:

 
                                     2016     2015 
                                     GBPm     GBPm 
 Underlying operating profit        121.4     97.4 
 Adjustments to operating costs     (1.9)    (5.2) 
 Share of loss from associates        1.3      1.6 
 Finance income                       0.5      0.7 
 Finance expense                   (15.7)   (17.7) 
                                  -------  ------- 
 Profit before tax                  105.6     76.8 
 Taxation                          (23.8)   (16.5) 
                                  -------  ------- 
 Profit after tax                    81.8     60.3 
                                  =======  ======= 
 
   3             Earnings per share 

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the result for the year attributable to ordinary shareholders by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year.

Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing the result for the year attributable to ordinary shareholders by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year adjusted by potentially dilutive outstanding share options.

Underlying earnings per share is calculated the same way except that the result for the year attributable to ordinary shareholders is adjusted for specific items as detailed below:

 
                                                                                   2016             2015 
                                                                                   GBPm             GBPm 
 
 Profit attributable to ordinary shareholders                                      72.0             53.4 
 
 Adjustments: 
 Amortisation of acquisition-related intangibles                                    1.9              5.2 
 Tax effect of adjustments                                                        (0.4)            (0.4) 
 
 Underlying profit attributable to ordinary shareholders                           73.5             58.2 
                                                                           ============  =============== 
 
 
 Basic weighted average number of shares                                    475,169,510      475,040,543 
 Dilutive potential ordinary shares                                           3,579,804        1,137,801 
 
 Diluted weighted average number of shares                                  478,749,314      476,178,344 
                                                                           ============  =============== 
 The number of ordinary shares in issue as at 30 September 2016 was 475,199,063 (30 September 
  2015: 475,113,354). 
                                                                                   2016             2015 
 Earnings per share (p): 
 - Basic                                                                           15.2             11.2 
 - Diluted                                                                         15.0             11.2 
 
 Underlying earnings per share (p): 
 - Basic                                                                           15.5             12.3 
 - Diluted                                                                         15.4             12.2 
 
 
   4              Operating costs 
 
                                                                   2016        2015 
                                                                   GBPm        GBPm 
 Cost of food and materials: 
 Cost of inventories consumed in the year                       (636.5)     (604.3) 
 
 Labour cost: 
 Employee remuneration                                          (581.6)     (541.7) 
 
 Overheads: 
 Depreciation of property, plant and equipment                   (74.2)      (68.0) 
 Amortisation of intangible assets - software                     (4.6)       (4.9) 
 Amortisation of acquisition-related intangible assets            (1.9)       (5.2) 
 Rentals payable under operating leases                         (349.6)     (311.6) 
 Other overheads                                                (222.4)     (205.0) 
                                                              (1,870.8)   (1,740.7) 
                                                             ==========  ========== 
 
 Adjustments to operating costs 
 Amortisation of intangible assets arising on acquisition         (1.9)       (5.2) 
                                                             ----------  ---------- 
                                                                  (1.9)       (5.2) 
                                                             ==========  ========== 
 

For the years presented above, underlying operating profit excludes non-cash accounting adjustments relating to amortisation of intangible assets arising on acquisition of the SSP business in 2006.

   5             Finance income and expense 
 
                                                                                 2016     2015 
                                                                                 GBPm     GBPm 
 Finance income 
 
 Interest income                                                                  0.4      0.7 
 Net foreign exchange gains                                                       0.1        - 
                                                                              -------  ------- 
 Total finance income                                                             0.5      0.7 
                                                                              =======  ======= 
 
 Finance expense 
 
 Total interest expense on financial liabilities measured at amortised cost    (10.5)   (13.9) 
 Net change in fair value of cash flow hedges utilised in the year              (2.7)    (0.9) 
 Unwind of discount on provisions                                               (0.6)    (1.3) 
 Net interest expense on defined benefit pension obligations                    (0.4)    (0.5) 
 Other                                                                          (1.5)    (1.1) 
 Total finance expense                                                         (15.7)   (17.7) 
                                                                              =======  ======= 
 
   6             Cash flow from operations 
 
                                      2016   2015 
                                      GBPm   GBPm 
 
Profit for the year                   81.8   60.3 
   Adjustments for: 
   Depreciation                       74.2   68.0 
   Amortisation                        6.5   10.1 
   Share-based payments                4.5    3.8 
   Finance income                    (0.5)  (0.7) 
   Finance expense                    15.7   17.7 
   Share of Profit of associates     (1.3)  (1.6) 
   Taxation                           23.8   16.5 
                                     204.7  174.1 
 
   (Increase) / decrease in 
    trade and other receivables     (18.7)    1.2 
   Increase in inventories           (0.1)  (1.4) 
   Decrease in trade and other 
    payables, and in provisions       22.6    5.5 
 
Cash flow from operations            208.5  179.4 
                                    ======  ===== 
 
 
   7             Dividends 
 
                                        2016     2015 
                                        GBPm     GBPm 
 Interim dividend paid in the year 
  of 2.5p per share (2015: 2.1p)      (11.8)   (10.0) 
 Prior year final dividend of 2.2p 
  per share paid in the year          (10.5)        - 
                                      (22.3)   (10.0) 
                                     =======  ======= 
 

The proposed dividend of 2.9 pence per share, amounting to a final dividend of GBP13.8m, is not included as a liability in these financial statements, and subject to shareholder approval, will be paid on 31 March 2017 to shareholders on the register on 3 March 2017.

   8             Fair value measurement 

Certain of the Group's financial instruments are held at fair value.

The fair values of financial instruments held at fair value have been determined based on available market information at the balance sheet date, and the valuation methodologies detailed below:

- the fair values of the Group's borrowings are calculated based on the present value of future principal and interest cash flows, discounted at the market rate of interest at the balance sheet date; and

- the derivative financial liabilities relate to interest rate swaps. The fair values of interest rate swaps have been determined using relevant yield curves and exchange rates as at the balance sheet date.

Carrying amounts and fair values of certain financial instruments

The following table shows the carrying amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities. It does not include information for financial assets and financial liabilities not measured at fair value if the carrying amount is a reasonable approximation of fair value.

 
                                                       Carrying amounts 
                                                          2016      2015 
                                                          GBPm      GBPm 
 Financial instruments measured at fair value: 
 Non-current 
 Derivative financial liabilities                       (14.2)     (9.8) 
 
 Financial instruments not measured at fair value: 
 Non-current 
 Long term borrowings                                  (442.5)   (426.8) 
 Current 
 Cash and cash equivalents                               155.8     134.7 
 Short term borrowings                                  (30.7)    (27.7) 
 

Financial assets and liabilities in the Group's consolidated balance sheet are either held at fair value, or their carrying value approximates to fair value, with the exception of loans, which are held at amortised cost. The fair value of total borrowings estimated using market prices at 30 September 2016 is GBP476.7m (30 September 2015: GBP459.0m).

All of the financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value are classified as level 2 using the fair value hierarchy, whereby inputs which are used in the valuation of these financial assets and liabilities and have a significant effect on the fair value are observable, either directly or indirectly. There were no transfers during the year.

   9             Post balance sheet event 

On 20 October 2016, the Group announced the creation of a joint venture with K Hospitality Group, whereby SSP will own a 49% share in Travel Food Services Private Limited, a leading operator of food and beverage concessions in travel locations in India. This partnership provides an entry point into the Indian market and the Group expects to benefit from TFS' established strong local presence.

SSP is acquiring 49% of TFS for an expected net consideration of GBP57.9m. The acquisition will take place in two stages. The first stage is to acquire a 33% stake for an estimated net consideration of GBP39.0m. This stage is expected to be fully completed by the end of February 2017. The second stage, to acquire a further 16%, is expected to take place by the end of 2018, for a net consideration of approximately GBP18.9m, contingent upon the performance of the business.

The Group will have control over TFS' relevant activities which affect its returns and as such will fully consolidate TFS and its group companies.

   10           Annual General Meeting 

The Group's Annual General Meeting will be held on 13 March 2017. Details of the resolutions to be proposed at that meeting will be included in the notice of Annual General Meeting that will be sent to shareholders in late January 2017.

   11           Other information 

The financial information for the year ended 30 September 2016 contained in this preliminary announcement was approved by the Board on 28 November 2016. This announcement does not constitute statutory accounts of the Company within the meaning of section 435 of the Companies Act 2006, but is derived from those accounts.

Statutory accounts for the year ended 30 September 2015 have been delivered to the Registrar of Companies. Statutory accounts for the year ended 30 September 2016 will be delivered to the Registrar of Companies following the Company's Annual General Meeting.

The auditors have reported on those accounts. Their reports were not qualified, did not include a reference to any matters to which the auditors drew attention by way of emphasis without qualifying their report, and did not contain a statement under section 498 (2) or (3) of the Companies Act 2006.

The Company's Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 September 2016 will be posted and made available to shareholders on the Company's website in late January 2017.

   12           Forward looking statement 

This document contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include all matters that are not historical facts. Statements containing the words "believe", "expect", "intend", "may", "estimate" or, in each case, their negative and words of similar meaning are forward-looking. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties because they relate to events that may or may not occur in the future. We caution you that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that the Group's actual financial condition, results of operations and cash flows, and the development of the industry in which we operate, may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements contained in this document or other made by us or on the Group's behalf. In addition, even if the Group's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows, and the development of the industry in which we operate are consistent with the forward-looking statements in this document, those results or developments may not be indicative of results or developments in subsequent periods. Except where required to do so under applicable law or regulatory obligations, we undertake no obligation to update any forward looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

This information is provided by RNS

The company news service from the London Stock Exchange

END

FR DGBDBLXDBGLI

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

November 29, 2016 02:01 ET (07:01 GMT)

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